|
The New Atlantis - Part 1
The New Atlantis - Part 1
We sailed from Peru, (where we had continued by the space of one whole
year,) for China and Japan, by the South Sea; taking with us victuals for
twelve months; and had good winds from the east, though soft and weak, for
five months space, and more. But then the wind came about, and settled in the
west for many days, so as we could make little or no way, and were sometimes
in purpose to turn back. But then again there arose strong and great winds
from the south, with a point east, which carried us up (for all that we could
do), towards the north; by which time our victuals failed us, though we had
made good spare of them. So that finding ourselves, in the midst of the
greatest wilderness of waters in the world, without victuals, we gave
ourselves for lost men and prepared for death. Yet we did lift up our hearts
and voices to God above, who showeth his wonders in the deep, beseeching him
of his mercy, that as in the beginning he discovered the face of the deep, and
brought forth dry land, so he would now discover land to us, that we might not
perish.
[Footnote 1: Within sight.]
[Footnote 2: Woods.]
[Footnote 3: Staves.]
And it came to pass that the next day about evening, we saw within a
kenning^1 before us, towards the north, as it were thick clouds, which did put
us in some hope of land; knowing how that part of the South Sea was utterly
unknown; and might have islands, or continents, that hitherto were not come to
light. Wherefore we bent our course thither, where we saw the appearance of
land, all that night; and in the dawning of the next day, we might plainly
discern that it was a land; flat to our sight, and full of boscage;^2 which
made it show the more dark. And after an hour and a half`s sailing, we entered
into a good haven, being the port of a fair city; not great indeed, but well
built, and that gave a pleasant view from the sea: and we thinking every
minute long, till we were on land, came close to the shore, and offered to
land. But straightways we saw divers of the people, with bastons^3 in their
hands (as it were) forbidding us to land; yet without any cries of fierceness,
but only as warning us off, by signs that they made. Whereupon being not a
little discomforted,^4 we were advising with ourselves, what we should do.
During which time, there made forth to us a small boat, with about eight
persons in it; whereof one of them had in his hand a tipstaff of a yellow
cane, tipped at both ends with blue, who came aboard our ship, without any
show of distrust at all. And when he saw one of our number, present himself
somewhat before the rest, he drew forth a little scroll of parchment (somewhat
yellower than our parchment, and shining like the leaves of writing tables,
but otherwise soft and flexible,) and delivered it to our foremost man. In
which scroll were written in ancient Hebrew, and in ancient Greek, and in good
Latin of the school,^5 and in Spanish, these words: Land ye not, none of you;
and provide to be gone, from this coast, within sixteen days, except you have
further time given you. Meanwhile, if you want fresh water or victuals, or
help for your sick, or that your ship needeth repairs, write down your wants,
and you shall have that, which belongeth to mercy. This scroll was signed with
a stamp of cherubim`s wings, not spread, but hanging downwards; and by them a
cross. This being delivered, the officer returned, and left only a servant
with us to receive our answer.
[Footnote 4: Discouraged.]
[Footnote 5: Academic, as opposed to popular, Latin.]
Consulting hereupon amongst ourselves, we were much perplexed. The denial
of landing and hasty warning us away troubled us much; on the other side, to
find that the people had languages, and were so full of humanity, did comfort
us not a little. And above all, the sign of the cross to that instrument was
to us a great rejoicing, and as it were a certain presage of good. Our answer
was in the Spanish tongue; That for our ship, it was well; for we had rather
met with calms and contrary winds than any tempests. For our sick, they were
many, and in very ill case; so that if they were not permitted to land, they
ran danger of their lives. Our other wants we set down in particular; adding,
That we had some little store of merchandise, which if it pleased them to deal
for, it might supply our wants, without being chargeable unto them. We offered
some reward in pistolets^6 unto the servant, and a piece of crimson velvet to
be presented to the officer; but the servant took them not, nor would scarce
look upon them; and so left us, and went back in another little boat, which
was sent for him.
About three hours after we had dispatched our answer, there came towards
us a person (as it seemed) of place. He had on him a gown with wide sleeves,
of a kind of water chamolet,^7 of an excellent azure colour, far more glossy
than ours; his under apparel was green; and so was his hat, being in the form
of a turban, daintily made, and not so huge as the Turkish turbans; and the
locks of his hair came down below the brims of it. A reverend man was he to
behold. He came in a boat, gilt in some part of it, with four persons more
only in that boat; and was followed by another boat, wherein were some twenty.
When he was come within a flightshot^8 of our ship, signs were made to us,
that we should send forth some to meet him upon the water; which we presently
did in our ship-boat, sending the principal man amongst us save one, and four
of our number with him.
[Footnote 6: Pistoles, Spanish gold coins.]
[Footnote 7: Camlet with a wavy surface.]
[Footnote 8: A flight was a light arrow.]
When we were come within six yards of their boat, they called to us to
stay, and not to approach farther; which we did. And thereupon the man, whom
I before described, stood up, and with a loud voice, in Spanish, asked, "Are
ye Christians?" We answered, "We were;" fearing the less, because of the cross
we had seen in the subscription. At which answer the said person lifted up his
right hand towards Heaven, and drew it softly to his mouth (which is the
gesture they use, when they thank God;) and then said: "If ye will swear (all
of you) by the merits of the Saviour, that ye are no pirates, nor have shed
blood, lawfully, nor unlawfully within forty days past, you may have licence
to come on land." We said, "We were all ready to take that oath." Whereupon
one of those that were with him, being (as it seemed) a notary, made an entry
of this act. Which done, another of the attendants of the great person which
was with him in the same boat, after his Lord had spoken a little to him, said
aloud: "My Lord would have you know, that it is not of pride, or greatness,
that he cometh not aboard your ship; but for that in your answer you declare
that you have many sick amongst you, he was warned by the Conservator of
Health of the city that he should keep a distance." We bowed ourselves towards
him, and answered, "We were his humble servants; and accounted for great
honour, and singular humanity towards us, that which was already done; but
hoped well, that the nature of the sickness of our men was not infectious." So
he returned; and a while after came the Notary to us aboard our ship; holding
in his hand a fruit of that country, like an orange, but of color between
orange-tawney and scarlet; which cast a most excellent odour. He used it (as
it seemeth) for a preservative against infection. He gave us our oath; "By the
name of Jesus, and his merits:" and after told us, that the next day, by six
of the Clock, in the Morning, we should be sent to, and brought to the
Strangers` House, (so he called it,) where we should be accommodated of
things, both for our whole, and for our sick. So he left us; and when we
offered him some pistolets, he smiling said, "He must not be twice paid for
one labour:" meaning (as I take it) that he had salary sufficient of the State
for his service. For (as I after learned) they call an officer that taketh
rewards, twice paid.
The next morning early, there came to us the same officer that came to
us at first with his cane, and told us, "He came to conduct us to the
Strangers` House; and that he had prevented^9 the hour, because^10 we might
have the whole day before us, for our business. For," he said, "if you will
follow my advice, there shall first go with me some few of you, and see the
place, and how it may be made convenient for you; and then you may send for
your sick, and the rest of your number, which ye will bring on land." We
thanked him, and said, "That this care, which he took of desolate strangers,
God would reward." And so six of us went on land with him: and when we were on
land, he went before us, and turned to us, and said, "He was but our servant,
and our guide." He led us through three fair streets; and all the way we went,
there were gathered some people on both sides, standing in a row; but in so
civil a fashion, as if it had been, not to wonder at us, but to welcome us:
and divers of them, as we passed by them, put their arms a little abroad;^11
which is their gesture, when they did bid any welcome.
[Footnote 9: Come before.]
[Footnote 10: In order that.]
[Footnote 11: Stretched out.]
The Strangers` House is a fair and spacious house, built of brick, of
somewhat a bluer colour than our brick; and with handsome windows, some of
glass; some of a kind of cambric oiled. He brought us first into a fair
parlour above stairs, and then asked us, "What number of persons we were?
And how many sick?" We answered, "We were in all, (sick and whole,) one and
fifty persons, whereof our sick were seventeen." He desired us to have
patience a little, and to stay till he came back to us; which was about an
hour after; and then he led us to see the chambers which were provided for us,
being in number nineteen: they having cast^12 it (as it seemeth) that four of
those chambers, which were better than the rest, might receive four of the
principal men of our company; and lodge them alone by themselves; and the
other fifteen chambers were to lodge us two and two together. The chambers
were handsome and cheerful chambers, and furnished civilly.^13 Then he led us
to a long gallery, like a dorture,^14 where he showed us all along the one
side (for the other side was but wall and window), seventeen cells, very neat
ones, having partitions of cedar wood. Which gallery and cells, being in all
forty, (many more than we needed,) were instituted as an infirmary for sick
persons. And he told us withal, that as any of our sick waxed well, he might
be removed from his cell, to a chamber; for which purpose there were set
forth ten spare chambers, besides the number we spake of before. This done,
he brought us back to the parlour, and lifting up his cane a little, (as they
do when they give any charge or command) said to us, "Ye are to know, that the
custom of the land requireth, that after this day and to-morrow, (which we
give you for removing of your people from your ship,) you are to keep within
doors for three days. But let it not trouble you, nor do not think yourselves
restrained, but rather left to your rest and ease. You shall want nothing, and
there are six of our people appointed to attend you, for any business you may
have abroad." We gave him thanks, with all affection and respect, and said,
"God surely is manifested in this land." We offered him also twenty pistolets;
but he smiled, and only said; "What? twice paid!" And so he left us.
[Footnote 12: Planned.]
[Footnote 13: Respectably.]
[Footnote 14: Dormitory.]
Soon after our dinner was served in; which was right good viands, both
for bread and meat; better than any collegiate diet, that I have known in
Europe. We had also drink of three sorts, all wholesome and good; wine of the
grape; a drink of grain, such as is with us our ale, but more clear: And a
kind of cider made of a fruit of that country; a wonderful pleasing and
refreshing drink. Besides, there were brought in to us, great store of those
scarlet oranges, for our sick; which (they said) were an assured remedy for
sickness taken at sea. There was given us also, a box of small gray, or
whitish pills, which they wished our sick should take, one of the pills, every
night before sleep; which (they said) would hasten their recovery.
[Footnote 15: Dispositions.]
The next day, after that our trouble of carriage and removing of our men
and goods out of our ship, was somewhat settled and quiet, I thought good to
call our company together; and when they were assembled, said unto them; "My
dear friends, let us know ourselves, and how it standeth with us. We are men
cast on land, as Jonas was, out of the whale`s belly, when we were as buried
in the deep: and now we are on land, we are but between death and life; for we
are beyond, both the old world, and the new; and whether ever we shall see
Europe, God only knoweth. It is a kind of miracle hath brought us hither: and
it must be little less, that shall bring us hence. Therefore in regard of our
deliverance past, and our danger present, and to come, let us look up to God,
and every man reform his own ways. Besides we are come here amongst a
Christian people, full of piety and humanity: let us not bring that confusion
of face upon ourselves, as to show our vices, or unworthiness before them.
Yet there is more. For they have by commandment, (though in form of courtesy)
cloistered us within these walls, for three days: who knoweth, whether it be
not, to take some taste of our manners and conditions?^15 and if they find
them bad, to banish us straightways; if good, to give us further time. For
these men that they have given us for attendance, may withal have an eye upon
us. Therefore for God`s love, and as we love the weal of our souls and bodies,
let us so behave ourselves, as we may be at peace with God, and may find grace
in the eyes of this people." Our company with one voice thanked me for my good
admonition, and promised me to live soberly and civilly, and without giving
any the least occasion of offence. So we spent our three days joyfully, and
without care, in expectation what would be done with us, when they were
expired. During which time, we had every hour joy of the amendment of our
sick; who thought themselves cast into some divine pool of healing; they
mended so kindly,^16 and so fast.
The morrow after our three days were past, there came to us a new man,
that we had not seen before, clothed in blue as the former was, save that his
turban was white, with a small red cross on the top. He had also a tippet of
fine linen. At his coming in, he did bend to us a little, and put his arms
abroad. We of our parts saluted him in a very lowly and submissive manner; as
looking that from him, we should receive sentence of life, or death: he
desired to speak with some few of us: whereupon six of us only staid, and the
rest avoided^17 the room. He said, "I am by office governor of this House of
Strangers, and by vocation I am a Christian priest: and therefore am come to
you to offer you my service, both as strangers and chiefly as Christians. Some
things I may tell you, which I think you will not be unwilling to hear. The
State hath given you license to stay on land, for the space of six weeks; and
let it not trouble you, if your occasions ask further time, for the law in
this point is not precise; and I do not doubt, but my self shall be able, to
obtain for you such further time, as may be convenient. Ye shall also
understand, that the Strangers` House is at this time rich, and much
aforehand; for it hath laid up revenue these thirty-seven years; for so long
it is since any stranger arrived in this part: and therefore take ye no care;
the State will defray^18 you all the time you stay; neither shall you stay one
day the less for that. As for any merchandise ye have brought, ye shall be
well used, and have your return, either in merchandise, or in gold and silver:
for to us it is all one. And if you have any other request to make, hide it
not. For ye shall find we will not make your countenance to fall by the answer
ye shall receive. Only this I must tell you, that none of you must go above
a karan," (that is with them a mile and an half) "from the walls of the city,
without especial leave."
[Footnote 16: Naturally.]
[Footnote 17: Left.]
[Footnote 18: Pay expenses.]
We answered, after we had looked awhile one upon another, admiring^19
this gracious and parent-like usage; "That we could not tell what to say: for
we wanted words to express our thanks; and his noble free offers left us
nothing to ask. It seemed to us, that we had before us a picture of our
salvation in Heaven; for we that were a while since in the jaws of death,
were now brought into a place, where we found nothing but consolations. For
the commandment laid upon us, we would not fail to obey it, though it was
impossible but our hearts should be enflamed to tread further upon this happy
and holy ground." We added; "That our tongues should first cleave to the
roofs of our mouths, ere we should forget, either his reverend person, or
this whole nation, in our prayers." We also most humbly besought him, to
accept of us as his true servants, by as just a right as ever men on earth
were bounden; laying and presenting, both our persons, and all we had, at his
feet. He said; "He was a priest, and looked for a priest`s reward; which was
our brotherly love, and the good of our souls and bodies." So he went from
us, not without tears of tenderness in his eyes; and left us also confused
with joy and kindness, saying amongst ourselves; "That we were come into a
land of angels, which did appear to us daily, and present us with comforts,
which we thought not of, much less expected."
The next day about ten of the clock, the Governor came to us again, and
after salutations, said familiarly; "That he was come to visit us;" and
called for a chair, and sat him down: and we, being some ten of us, (the rest
were of the meaner sort, or else gone abroad,) sat down with him. And when we
were set, he began thus: "We of this island of Bensalem," (for so they call
it in their language,) "have this; that by means of our solitary situation;
and of the laws of secrecy, which we have for our travellers, and our rare
admission of strangers; we know well most part of the habitable world, and
are ourselves unknown. Therefore because he that knoweth least is fittest to
ask questions, it is more reason, for the entertainment of the time, that ye
ask me questions, than that I ask you."
[Footnote 19: Wondering at.]
We answered; "That we humbly thanked him that he would give us leave so
to do: and that we conceived by the taste we had already, that there was no
worldly thing on earth, more worthy to be known than the state of that happy
land. But above all," (we said,) "since that we were met from the several ends
of the world, and hoped assuredly that we should meet one day in the kingdom
of Heaven, (for that we were both parts Christians,) we desired to know, (in
respect that land was so remote, and so divided by vast and unknown seas, from
the land where our Saviour walked on earth,) who was the apostle of that
nation, and how it was converted to the faith?" It appeared in his face that
he took great contentment in this our question: he said; "Ye knit my heart to
you, by asking this question in the first place; for it sheweth that you first
seek the kingdom of heaven; and I shall gladly, and briefly, satisfy your
demand.
"About twenty years after the ascension of our Saviour, it came to pass,
that there was seen by the people of Renfusa, (a city upon the eastern coast
of our island,) within night, (the night was cloudy, and calm,) as it might
be some mile into the sea, a great pillar of light; not sharp, but in form of
a column, or cylinder, rising from the sea a great way up towards heaven; and
on the top of it was seen a large cross of light, more bright and resplendent
than the body of the pillar. Upon which so strange a spectacle, the people of
the city gathered apace together upon the sands, to wonder; and so after put
themselves into a number of small boats, to go nearer to this marvellous
sight. But when the boats were come within (about) sixty yards of the pillar,
they found themselves all bound, and could go no further; yet so as they might
move to go about, but might not approach nearer: so as the boats stood all as
in a theatre, beholding this light as an heavenly sign. It so fell out, that
there was in one of the boats one of the wise men, of the society of
Salomon`s House; which house, or college (my good brethren) is the very eye
of this kingdom; who having awhile attentively and devoutly viewed and
contemplated this pillar and cross, fell down upon his face; and then raised
himself upon his knees, and lifting up his hands to heaven, made his prayers
in this manner.
"`Lord God of heaven and earth, thou hast vouchsafed of thy grace to
those of our order, to know thy works of Creation, and the secrets of them:
and to discern (as far as appertaineth to the generations of men) between
divine miracles, works of nature, works of art, and impostures and illusions
of all sorts. I do here acknowledge and testify before this people, that the
thing which we now see before our eyes is thy Finger and a true Miracle. And
forasmuch as we learn in our books that thou never workest miracles, but to a
divine and excellent end, (for the laws of nature are thine own laws, and thou
exceedest them not but upon great cause,) we most humbly beseech thee to
prosper this great sign, and to give us the interpretation and use of it in
mercy; which thou dost in some part secretly promise by sending it unto us.`
"When he had made his prayer, he presently found the boat he was in,
moveable and unbound; whereas all the rest remained still fast; and taking
that for an assurance of leave to approach, he caused the boat to be softly
and with silence rowed towards the pillar. But ere he came near it, the pillar
and cross of light brake up, and cast itself abroad, as it were, into a
firmament of many stars; which also vanished soon after, and there was nothing
left to be seen, but a small ark, or chest of cedar, dry, and not wet at all
with water, though it swam. And in the fore-end of it, which was towards him,
grew a small green branch of palm; and when the wise man had taken it, with
all reverence, into his boat, it opened of itself, and there were found in it
a Book and a Letter; both written in fine parchment, and wrapped in sindons^20
of linen. The Book contained all the canonical books of the Old and New
Testament, according as you have them; (for we know well what the churches
with you receive); and the Apocalypse itself, and some other books of the New
Testament, which were not at that time written, were nevertheless in the
Book. And for the Letter, it was in these words:
"`I Bartholomew, a servant of the Highest, and Apostle of Jesus Christ,
was warned by an angel that appeareth to me, in a vision of glory, that I
should commit this ark to the floods of the sea. Therefore I do testify
and declare unto that people where God shall ordain this ark to come to land,
that in the same day is come unto them salvation and peace and good-will,
from the Father, and from the Lord Jesus.`
[Footnote 20: Pieces.]
[Footnote 21: Similar.]
"There was also in both these writings, as well the Book, as the Letter,
wrought a great miracle, conform^21 to that of the Apostles, in the original
Gift of Tongues. For there being at that time in this land Hebrews, Persians,
and Indians, besides the natives, every one read upon the Book, and Letter,
as if they had been written in his own language. And thus was this land
saved from infidelity (as the remainder of the old world was from water) by
an ark, through the apostolical and miraculous evangelism of Saint
Bartholomew." And here he paused, and a messenger came, and called him from
us. So this was all that passed in that conference.
The next day, the same governor came again to us, immediately after
dinner, and excused himself, saying: "That the day before he was called from
us, somewhat abruptly, but now he would make us amends, and spend time with
us if we held his company and conference agreeable." We answered, "That we
held it so agreeable and pleasing to us, as we forgot both dangers past and
fears to come, for the time we hear him speak; and that we thought an hour
spent with him, was worth years of our former life." He bowed himself a
little to us, and after we were set again, he said; "Well, the questions
are on your part."
One of our number said, after a little pause; that there was a matter,
we were no less desirous to know, than fearful to ask, lest we might presume
too far. But encouraged by his rare humanity towards us, (that could scarce
think ourselves strangers, being his vowed and professed servants,) we would
take the hardiness to propound it: humbly beseeching him, if he thought it
not fit to be answered, that he would pardon it, though he rejected it. We
said; "We well observed those his words, which he formerly spake, that this
happy island, where we now stood, was known to few, and yet knew most of the
nations of the world; which we found to be true, considering they had the
languages of Europe, and knew much of our state and business; and yet we in
Europe, (notwithstanding all the remote discoveries and navigations of this
last age), never heard of the least inkling or glimpse of this island. This
we found wonderful strange; for that all nations have inter-knowledge one of
another, either by voyage into foreign parts, or by strangers that come to
them: and though the traveller into a foreign country, doth commonly know
more by the eye, than he that stayeth at home can by relation of the
traveller; yet both ways suffice to make a mutual knowledge, in some degree,
on both parts. But for this island, we never heard tell of any ship of theirs
that had been seen to arrive upon any shore of Europe; nor of either the
East or West Indies; nor yet of any ship of any other part of the world, that
had made return from them. And yet the marvel rested not in this. For the
situation of it (as his lordship said) in the secret conclave^23 of such a
vast sea might cause it. But then, that they should have knowledge of the
languages, books, affairs, of those that lie such a distance from them, it
was a thing we could not tell what to make of; for that it seemed to us a
condition^24 and propriety^25 of divine powers and beings, to be hidden and
unseen to others, and yet to have others open and as in a light to them."
At this speech the Governor gave a gracious smile, and said; "That we did
well to ask pardon for this question we now asked: for that it imported, as
if we thought this land, a land of magicians, that sent forth spirits of the
air into all parts, to bring them news and intelligence of other countries."
It was answered by us all, in all possible humbleness, but yet with a
countenance taking knowledge, that we knew that he spake it but merrily,
"That we were apt enough to think there was somewhat supernatural in this
island; but yet rather as angelical than magical. But to let his lordship
know truly what it was that made us tender and doubtful to ask this question,
it was not any such conceit,^26 but because we remembered, he had given a
touch^27 in his former speech, that this land had laws of secrecy touching
strangers." To this he said; "You remember it aright and therefore in that
I shall say to you, I must reserve some particulars, which it is not lawful
for me to reveal; but there will be enough left, to give you satisfaction.
[Footnote 23: Private room]
[Footnote 24: Property.]
[Footnote 25: Quality.]
[Footnote 26: Idea.]
[Footnote 27: Hint.]
"You shall understand (that which perhaps you will scarce think credible)
that about three thousand years ago, or somewhat more, the navigation of the
world, (especially for remote voyages,) was greater than at this day. Do not
think with yourselves, that I know not how much it is increased with you,
within these six-score years: I know it well: and yet I say greater then than
now; whether it was, that the example of the ark, that saved the remnant of
men from the universal deluge, gave men confidence to adventure upon the
waters; or what it was; but such is the truth. The Phoenicians, and
especially the Tyrians, had great fleets. So had the Carthaginians their
colony, which is yet further west. Toward the east the shipping of Egypt and
of Palestina was likewise great. China also, and the great Atlantis, (that
you call America,) which have now but junks and canoes, abounded then in tall
ships. This island, (as appeareth by faithful registers of those times,) had
then fifteen hundred strong ships, of great content. Of all this, there is
with you sparing memory, or none; but we have large knowledge thereof.
"At that time, this land was known and frequented by the ships and
vessels of all the nations before named. And (as it cometh to pass) they had
many times men of other countries, that were no sailors, that came with them;
as Persians, Chaldeans, Arabians; so as almost all nations of might and fame
resorted hither; of whom we have some stirps,^28 and little tribes with us at
this day. And for our own ships, they went sundry voyages, as well to your
straits, which you call the Pillars of Hercules, as to other parts in
Atlantic and Mediterrane Seas; as to Paguin, (which is the same with
Cambaline,^29) and Quinzy, upon the Oriental Seas, as far as to the borders
of the East Tartary.
[Footnote 28: Families.]
[Footnote 29: Cambalu, Pekin.]
[Footnote 30: Plato, in the "Critias,"]
[Footnote 31: Settled.]
[Footnote 32: Ladder to heaven.]
"At the same time, and an age after, or more, the inhabitants of the
great Atlantis did flourish. For though the narration and description, which
is made by a great man^30 with you; that the descendants of Neptune planted^31
there; and of the magnificent temple, palace, city, and hill; and the manifold
streams of goodly navigable rivers, (which as so many chains environed the
same site and temple); and the several degrees of ascent, whereby men did
climb up to the same, as if it had been a scala coeli,^32 be all poetical and
fabulous: yet so much is true, that the said country of Atlantis, as well
that of Peru, then called Coya, as that of Mexico, then named Tyrambel, were
mighty and proud kingdoms in arms, shipping and riches: so mighty, as at one
time (or at least within the space of ten years) they both made two great
expeditions; they of Tyrambel through the Atlantic to the Mediterrane Sea;
and they of Coya through the South Sea upon this our island: and for the
former of these, which was into Europe, the same author amongst you (as it
seemeth) had some relation from the Egyptian priest whom he cited. For
assuredly such a thing there was. But whether it were the ancient Athenians
that had the glory of the repulse and resistance of those forces, I can say
nothing: but certain it is, there never came back either ship or man from
that voyage. Neither had the other voyage of those of Coya upon us had better
fortune, if they had not met with enemies of greater clemency. For the king
of this island, (by name Altabin,) a wise man and a great warrior, knowing
well both his own strength and that of his enemies, handled the matter so, as
he cut off their land-forces from their ships; and entoiled^33 both their
navy and their camp with a greater power than theirs, both by sea and land:
and compelled them to render themselves without striking stroke: and after
they were at his mercy, contenting himself only with their oath that they
should no more bear arms against him, dismissed them all in safety.
"But the divine revenge overtook not long after those proud enterprises.
For within less than the space of one hundred years, the great Atlantis was
utterly lost and destroyed: not by a great earthquake, as your man saith;
(for that whole tract is little subject to earthquakes;) but by a
particular^34 deluge or inundation; those countries having, at this day, far
greater rivers and far higher mountains to pour down waters, than any part of
the old world. But it is true that the same inundation was not deep; not past
forty foot, in most places, from the ground; so that although it destroyed man
and beast generally, yet some few wild inhabitants of the wood escaped. Birds
also were saved by flying to the high trees and woods. For as for men,
although they had buildings in many places, higher than the depth of the
water, yet that inundation, though it were shallow, had a long continuance;
whereby they of the vale that were not drowned, perished for want of food and
other things necessary.
[Footnote 33: Ensnared.]
[Footnote 34: Partial.]
"So as marvel you not at the thin population of America, nor at the
rudeness and ignorance of the people; for you must account your inhabitants
of America as a young people; younger a thousand years, at the least than the
rest of the world: for that there was so much time between the universal
flood and their particular inundation. For the poor remnant of human seed,
which remained in their mountains, peopled the country again slowly, by little
and little; and being simple and savage people, (not like Noah and his sons,
which was the chief family of the earth,) they were not able to leave letters,
arts, and civility^35 to their posterity; and having likewise in their
mountainous habitations been used (in respect of the extreme cold of those
regions) to clothe themselves with the skins of tigers, bears, and great
hairy goats, that they have in those parts; when after they came down into the
valley, and found the intolerable heats which are there, and knew no means of
lighter apparel, they were forced to begin the custom of going naked, which
continueth at this day. Only they take great pride and delight in the feathers
of birds; and this also they took from those their ancestors of the mountains
who were invited unto it by the infinite flights of birds that came up to the
high grounds, while the waters stood below. So you see, by this main accident
of time, we lost our traffic with the Americans, with whom of all others, in
regard they lay nearest to us, we had most commerce.
"As for the other parts of the world, it is most manifest that in the
ages following (whether it were in respect of wars, or by a natural
revolution of time,) navigation did every where greatly decay; and specially
far voyages (the rather by the use of galleys, and such vessels as could
hardly brook the ocean,) were altogether left and omitted. So then, that part
of intercourse which could be from other nations to sail to us, you see how it
hath long since ceased; except it were by some rare accident, as this of
yours. But now of the cessation of that other part of intercourse, which might
be by our sailing to other nations, I must yield you some other cause. For I
cannot say (if I shall say truly,) but our shipping, for number, strength,
mariners, pilots, and all things that appertain to navigation, is as great as
ever; and therefore why we should sit at home, I shall now give you an account
by itself: and it will draw nearer to give you satisfaction to your principal
question.
[Footnote 35: Civilization.]
"There reigned in this land, about nineteen hundred years ago, a king,
whose memory of all others we most adore; not superstitiously, but as a
divine instrument, though a mortal man; his name was Solamona: and we esteem
him as the lawgiver of our nation. This king had a large heart, inscrutable
for good; and was wholly bent to make his kingdom and people happy. He
therefore, taking into consideration how sufficient and substantive^36 this
land was to maintain itself without any aid (at all) of the foreigner; being
five thousand six hundred miles in circuit, and of rare fertility of soil in
the greatest part thereof; and finding also the shipping of this country
might be plentifully set on work, both by fishing and by transportations from
port to port, and likewise by sailing unto some small islands that are not
far from us, and are under the crown and laws of this state; and recalling
into his memory the happy and flourishing estate wherein this land then was;
so as it might be a thousand ways altered to the worse, but scarce any one
way to the better; though nothing wanted to his noble and heroical
intentions, but only (as far as human foresight might reach) to give
perpetuity to that which was in his time so happily established. Therefore
amongst his other fundamental laws of this kingdom, he did ordain the
interdicts and prohibitions which we have touching entrance of strangers;
which at that time (though it was after the calamity of America) was
frequent; doubting^37 novelties, and commixture of manners. It is true, the
like law against the admission of strangers without licence is an ancient
law in the kingdom of China, and yet continued in use. But there it is a poor
thing; and hath made them a curious, ignorant, fearful, foolish nation. But
our lawgiver made his law of another temper. For first, he hath preserved all
points of humanity, in taking order and making provision for the relief of
strangers distressed; whereof you have tasted."
At which speech (as reason was) we all rose up and bowed ourselves. He
went on.
[Footnote 36: Self-sufficing.]
[Footnote 37: Fearing.]
"That king also, still desiring to join humanity and policy together;
and thinking it against humanity, to detain strangers here against their
wills, and against policy that they should return and discover their
knowledge of this estate, he took this course: he did ordain that of the
strangers that should be permitted to land, as many (at all times) might
depart as would; but as many as would stay should have very good conditions
and means to live from the state. Wherein he saw so far, that now in so many
ages since the prohibition, we have memory not of one ship that ever returned,
and but of thirteen persons only, at several times, that chose to return in
our bottoms. What those few that returned may have reported abroad I know not.
But you must think, whatsoever they have said could be taken where they came
but for a dream. Now for our travelling from hence into parts abroad, our
Lawgiver thought fit altogether to restrain it. So is it not in China. For the
Chinese sail where they will or can; which sheweth that their law of keeping
out strangers is a law of pusillanimity and fear. But this restraint of ours
hath one only exception, which is admirable; preserving the good which cometh
by communicating with strangers, and avoiding the hurt; and I will now open it
to you. And here I shall seem a little to digress, but you will by and by find
it pertinent.
[Footnote 38: Named after.]
[Footnote 39: Agree.]
"Ye shall understand (my dear friends) that amongst the excellent acts
of that king, one above all hath the pre-eminence. It was the erection and
institution of an Order or Society, which we call Salomon`s House; the
noblest foundation (as we think) that ever was upon the earth; and the
lanthorn of this kingdom. It is dedicated to the study of the works and
creatures of God. Some think it beareth the founder`s name a little corrupted,
as if it should be Solamona`s House. But the records write it as it is spoken.
So as I take it to be denominate of^38 the king of the Hebrews, which is
famous with you, and no stranger to us. For we have some parts of his works,
which with you are lost; namely, that natural history, which he wrote, of all
plants, from the cedar of Libanus to the moss that groweth out of the wall,
and of all things that have life and motion. This maketh me think that our
king, finding himself to symbolize^39 in many things with that king of the
Hebrews (which lived many years before him), honored him with the title of
this foundation. And I am rather induced to be of this opinion, for that I
find in ancient records this Order or Society is sometimes called Salomon`s
House, and sometimes the College of the Six Days Works; whereby I am satisfied
that our excellent king had learned from the Hebrews that God had created the
world and all that therein is within six days: and therefore he instituting
that House for the finding out of the true nature of all things, (whereby God
might have the more glory in the workmanship of them, and men the more fruit
in the use of them), did give it also that second name.
"But now to come to our present purpose. When the king had forbidden to
all his people navigation into any part that was not under his crown, he made
nevertheless this ordinance; that every twelve years there should be set
forth, out of this kingdom two ships, appointed to several voyages; That in
either of these ships there should be a mission of three of the Fellows or
Brethren of Salomon`s House; whose errand was only to give us knowledge of the
affairs and state of those countries to which they were designed, and
especially of the sciences, arts, manufactures, and inventions of all the
world; and withal to bring unto us books, instruments, and patterns in every
kind: That the ships, after they had landed the brethren, should return; and
that the brethren should stay abroad till the new mission. These ships are not
otherwise fraught, than with store of victuals, and good quantity of treasure
to remain with the brethren, for the buying of such things and rewarding of
such persons as they should think fit. Now for me to tell you how the vulgar
sort of mariners are contained^40 from being discovered at land; and how they
that must be put on shore for any time, color themselves under the names of
other nations; and to what places these voyages have been designed; and what
places of rendezvous are appointed for the new missions; and the like
circumstances of the practique; I may not do it; neither is it much to your
desire. But thus you see we maintain a trade not for gold, silver, or jewels;
nor for silks; nor for spices; nor any other commodity of matter; but only for
God`s first creature, which was Light: to have light (I say) of the growth
of^41 all parts of the world."
[Footnote 40: Prevented.]
[Footnote 41: Produced in.]
And when he had said this, he was silent; and so were we all. For indeed
we were all astonished to hear so strange things so probably told. And he,
perceiving that we were willing to say somewhat but had it not ready in great
courtesy took us off, and descended to ask us questions of our voyage and
fortunes and in the end concluded, that we might do well to think with
ourselves what time of stay we would demand of the state; and bade us not to
scant ourselves; for he would procure such time as we desired. Whereupon we
all rose up, and presented ourselves^42 to kiss the skirt of his tippet; but
he would not suffer us; and so took his leave. But when it came once amongst
our people that the state used to offer conditions to strangers that would
stay, we had work enough to get any of our men to look to our ship; and to
keep them from going presently to the governor to crave conditions. But with
much ado we refrained them, till we might agree what course to take.
We took ourselves now for free men, seeing there was no danger of our
utter perdition; and lived most joyfully, going abroad and seeing what was to
be seen in the city and places adjacent within our tedder; and obtaining
acquaintance with many of the city, not of the meanest quality; at whose hands
we found such humanity, and such a freedom and desire to take strangers as it
were into their bosom, as was enough to make us forget all that was dear to us
in our own countries: and continually we met with many things right worthy of
observation and relation: as indeed, if there be a mirror in the world worthy
to hold men`s eyes, it is that country.
[Footnote 42: Offered.]
[Footnote 43: Attended.]
|
