this case of conscience: who was very ready to give them a dispensation; and told them, "that forasmuch as the Cingalese were their enemies and had taken their bodies, it was very lawful for them to satisfy their bodies with their goods." And the better to animate them in this design, he bade them bring him a piece that he might partake with them. So being encouraged by the old father, they went on boldly in their intended business.
Now if you would have an account of the mettle and manfulness of these men, as you have already had a taste of those of ours; take this passage. The Jak fruit the King's officers often gather wheresoever it grows, and give it to the King's elephants; and they may gather it in any man's grounds without the owner's leave, being for the King's use. Now these Englishmen were appointed to dwell in a house that formerly belonged unto a nobleman, whom the King had cut off, and seized upon it. In the ground belonging to this house stood a Jak tree full of fruit. Some of the King's men came thither to gather some to feed the elephants: but although the English had free liberty to gather what they could eat or desire; yet they would permit none but themselves to meddle with them, but took the officers by the shoulders and turned them out of the garden; although there were a great many more fruits than they could tell what to do with. The great men were so civil that notwithstanding this affront, they had no punishment upon them. But the event of this was, that a few days after, they were removed from this house to another where was a garden, but no trees in it. And because they would not allow the King a few, they lost all themselves.
* * * * *
I mentioned before two lads of this company, whom the King chose out for his own service. Their names were HUGH SMART and HENRY MAN. These being taken into his Court, obtained great favour and honour from him, as to be always in his presence, and very often he would kindly and familiarly talk with them, concerning their country, what it afforded, and of their King, and his strength for war.
Till at length HUGH SMART having a desire to hear news concerning England, privately got to the speech of a Dutch Ambassador. Of which the King had notice, but would not
