Narrative of the Troubles with the Indians in New England, Narrative 2 · Floating text 4 – Errata

Narrative of the Troubles with the Indians in New England · Narrative 2 · Floating text 4 – Errata

p. 66February the seventeenth, this morning the wind North East, soon after South, and South West, we sate Sayle with … Vessels from Black Point, for Portland, but on the East-side of Cape Elizabeth, we espyed Iohn Pain, (who was sent out a Scout) who brought word the way was clear of Ice, and Indians whereupon we steared for Mary Poin… at the head of Casco Bay, and got there this night, but too late to get to the Fort before morning.

February the eighteenth, we sent this morning our Scouts out by Land, who returning about eight of the Clock brought word they espyed the Tracts of three Indians, and found a Birch Canoo at Muckq…itt about four miles off, by which we feared we were discovered, the Companyes about four a Clock were drawn forth, and just beginning their march, when we espyed five Canoos of the Enemy about half a mile off, they landed over against us on an Island, and … to us, whereby we perceived they desired a Trea…y, hoping to gain the Captives, we sent Iohn Pain to them, they promised him to bring the Captives by morning, and desired peace: Afte… this Iohn Pain was sent again, and stayed among the Indians in the room of Simon, who came to the Major, he was questioned, and Answered as followeth:

Quest. How came you to know we were here?

Answ. We continually kept out our Scouts, and Yesterday our Indians left a Canoo at Muckquitt, which this day we missed, and per…ived the English had taken it, and our Men that left the Canoo, espyed you a a great way off at Portland.

Quest. Why did you break your Covenant with me?

Answ. Blind W…ll stirred us up to the War here, and said, he would kill you at Q…echecho; Simon having said this, askt the Major what his business was here? to whom it was Answered, we came to …etch off the Captives and make War as we see good. Simo… also told us that the p. 67Captives were all well, that we should have them by morning, that Squando was there, and would give the Captives to Major Waldern that they intended peace, had sent to Boston before now, but that Mugg told them the English would be here shortly.

The Major upon this dismissed Simon, and sent for Squando, to which Squando Answered, he would meet him half way if he would come alone in a B…rch Canoo. To this the Major Answered, he would not venture himself in our Leakie Canoo, and that if he had no more to say the Treaty was ended: To this Squando Answered, he would be with us again at Ten a Clock, and bring the Captives.

On the Nineteenth. Wind North East, the weather thick; About Noon we discovered a party of Indians in …ourteen Canoos about three mile above us in the Bay: they landed on a point of Land and burnt one English house, and shouted to some of our m…n that were Scouts, challenging them to fight: Immediately on the Return of our Scouts we marched against them as secretly as we could: upon sight of us they fled; but Captain Frost came upon them with his whole body before they were half out of Gun shot: in this Skirmish we judged, we killed and wounded several of them without any damage, yet some of their Bullets hit some of our men. For the Captives sake immediately after this, we hung out a Flag of Truc…, and the Enemy did the like: Iohn Pain was sent to them to demand the Reason why they fired the house, and brake their Promise.

Simon met him half way, and Answered, the house was fired Accidentally without Order from Squando: that they had sent for the Captives who were a great way off, and the foul weather hindred their coming: He questioned Iohn Pain also why we sought them while we were in Trea…y.

Pain Answered they brake it themselves in not performing their promise, challenging our Souldiers to fight; this latter Simon denyed, and Answered the other as before: Simon told him they had two men wounded, and expected satisfaction, but also promised the Captives the next day, and so left us.

On the twentieth. The wind North East, and Snow, it was resolved to Sayle for Kennibeck the first fair wind, whether we had immediately gone upon our knowledge, that we were discovered by the Enemy, but that the wind and weather hindred us hitherto.

February the twenty first, this morning the wind North West, we set Sayle for Kennibeck, and arrived at the Harbours mouth at four a Clock: About Sun set we set Sayle up the River, and got to the lower end of Arowsick.

p. 68Twenty second, we set Sayle this morning, but … …ot get to the head of the River for Ice, whereupon we landed our … about two a Clock, about twelve miles off Aboundessit Fort, and immediately began our march, about eight a Clock at night came to the Fort, we found no Indians, there we …ook up our Quarters this night.

Tw…nty third we sent out Scouts to discover the march of the Enemy, but found so many Tracts every way, that w… knew not what way to follow them; At a Council of War it was resolved that Major Wa…dern should Sayle for Penobscot, with two of the Ketches, and part of the Souldiers to seek after the Captives, and fight the Enemy if he had opportunity: the rest to build a Garrison. In the absence of our Forces, the Vessels espyed several Fires belwo the River, and one English ho…se was burnt, about Sun set, the Souldiers returned to the Vessels:

Twenty fourth this morning the Major with two Boats and a Shallop went to spy out a place to settle a Garrison, and found one against the lower end of Arowsick Island, and the Vessels are brought to it.

Twenty fifth. We rested here this Sabboth.

Iohn Bakers house opposite to the lower end of Arowsick, being judged the most convenient place for their purpo…e, as wel… for the convenience of wa…er for the Souldiers, as of a Cove wherein Ships might R…de, within Command thereof, their Vessels therefore were immediately Anchored there, where they rested on the Lords day, February, the twenty fif…h.

The next day according to the Advice of the Comma…ders, Major Waldern embarqued sixty men in two Vessels, with which he set Sayle immediately for Peno…scot, leaving the rest to be imployed in making preparation for setling a Garrison in the said place.

In their way, off from Gy-obscut Point, they espyed two Indians in a C…noo▪ that waved their Caps, as if they desired speech with them. Iohn Pain and Wat. G…endal were presently sent; they gave them I …elle …gence that many Indians were at Pemmaquid with English Captives, upon which they b…nt their Course thither. where arriving they Anchored at four a Clock, the same day; soon after two Indians holloed to them from Mr. Gardners Fort… Iohn…Pain was sent a shore to enquire who they were, and what was become of the Captiv…s: Sundry sorts of Indians were found upon the place, with several Sagamores, the chief of …om, was Mattahando, who told them he was glad to see English m…n there, and that he desired peace, and promised to delive… such Captives as were at Pe…ob cot, the next morning; adding also, that he … to speak with Captain Davis. A…ter Iohn … returned to the p. 69Major, he was sent back with the said Davis, and staid a shore, till three Sagamores went a boord, and signified as much to Major Waldern, as they had said before to Iohn Pain. While they were in discourse, an English Captive was espyed in a Canoo with his Pateroon, with whom they desired to speak but it was not granted at that time, he being carryed farther up the River out of fight.

Soon after the Major went a shore with six men, yet carrying no Arms with them. He found their words smoother than Oyle, yet were there drawn Swords in their hearts, of which some of their act…ons, gave no small ground of Suspition: for they deferred all till the next morning; nor were they willing to let the man that was espyed before in the Canoo come a boord to see his Friends without leaving an Hostage in his room, of which the Major was very glad, that he might have an opportunity of a little discourse with one whom they might trust. When they returned from the shore, a sign was promised to be given for the Appearance of the Indians by the firing of three Gun…. The next morning, February the twenty seventh, the Major with the same number as before, went to Treat with them: They with Iohn Pain having first holloed to them; upon their coming a shore their persons were searched on both sides, and all Arms laid aside. The whole Forenoon was spent in … Treaty, whereat they seemed much to rejoyce in expectation of a Peace with the English; yet when Major Waldern desired a present delivery of the Captives, with Assistance of men and Canoos to fight the Monoscoggin Indians, Enemies to them both, it was denyed, though they could no… have had a fitter Testimony of their Fidelity.

They alleadged that the Captives were givers them by Kennibeck Indians, and they must have something for keeping them all Winter, and therefore were not willing to let them go without Ransome; And for thei… Canoos, they said they had them in present Service, being then boun… for Penobscot. The price demanded▪ viz. twelve Skins a person, was yielded to; upon which they presently delivered William Chadburn, Iohn Whinnick, and Iohn Worwood, which were all that they would owne, or could be proved they had.

That part of the pay, which was to be in Liquor, was presently laid down, the rest was promised to be sent in the Afternoon. The Command…rs debated what was farther to be done, one or two of the old …agamores, (who were believed) seemed sincere about the Peace, p…osess…d that none of them had any hand in the War, but only some of their young men, whom they could not Rule: But several of the Company offirming they saw some of the said Indians at Casco engaged in … p. 70against t…e English, it was resolved not to enter into any League of Peace with them, but rather to fight them, or surprize them after they had dispatched the business about the Captives.

This being determined, the Major with five of his men went a shore, with part of the Ransome, the better to beget a Confidence in them; and then presently to return a boord, and fit his men for fa…ther Service; But if he had not wisely provided against all Exigenciess a …ore hand, he might have been prevented from ever going aboord more; for stepping aside a Rod or two from the place, for better Circumspection, he espyed the point of a Lance from under a boord, hid there, as were other Arms near by for a Treacherous designe that was in their minds, soon after, upon the receiving the rest of the Pay, to have been put in Execution. Whereupon Major Waldern took up the Lance, and came towards them, cha…ging them with falshood and Treachery, for hiding Weapons just by, wherewith to destroy them as soon as they had delivered the goods: The Indians discovered their guiltiness by their Countenances, some of them making towards him, thinking to get the said Weapon out of his hands; but he bid them stand off, threatning to kill every one that offered to touch him; And immediately waved his Cap ouer his head, (which was the signe agreed upon, for the Souldiers to come all a shore, in Case of need) upon which Token the Souldiers all hasted away. In the mean while the English that went a shore to wait upon the Major, were forced to bestir them, both to secure the goods from being carryed away, … to defend Major Waldern: Some of the Squaws with others of the Enemy ran away, one of them catched up a Bundle of Guns that were … near by, and ran away with them, Captain Frost seized and Indian calle… Megunnaway, a Notorious Rogue, (that had been in Arms at … cut last Iune, at the Falls, and saw that brave and Resolute … Turner, when he was s…ain about green River; and helped to kill … Bracket at Casco, August last.) And with the help of Lieutenans … according to the Majors Order carryed him a boord, while … searching about farther found three Guns hid in a Cow-house … wherewith he armed the other three men that were with him … time some of the Souldiers were got a shore, and instantly … their Majors Command pursued the Enemy towards their … the Chaso, several of the Enemies were slain▪ whose bodies they … their Return; to the number of seven, amongst whom was Mattahand… the Sagamore, with an old Po…aw, to whom the Devil had …revea…ed, as sometimes he did to Saul, that one the same day he should be with him: for he had a little before told the Indians, that within two dayes, the p. 71Engl…sh would come and kill them all, which was at the very same time verified upon himself: The body of our men overtook them before they all recovered their Canoo…, so as without doubt, divers others of them were slain likewise: for they sunke a Canoo, wherein were five drowned before their Eyes: and many others were not able to paddle: four they took Pri…oners, whom they brought away with them There being about five and twenty of the Indians p…esent at this Encounter.

Much more damage might have been done by our men upon the Enemy, if they had known the ready way to their Canoos; but the Indians having prepared all things ready for flight, in Case, as well as for fight, the more easily made their escape. One of the Captives taken was Madockawa…do'… Sister, who was Entertained very Court…o…sly by the Commander in chief, and had been carryed forth with to her …rother, in hope by her means to have gained the better Tearms for our remaining English Captives, but it was certainly known that he was gone from home upon an Hunting Design…, and not to return in two Months.

The English took much Plunder from the Indians, about a thousand weight of dried Beef, with other things, Megunnaway was shot to Death, the same day or the n…xt, so as Justice is by degrees pursuing those pirfidious Villains, and one after another they are brought under the Wheel of Destruction. Simon, that Arch Traytor, seems as is said, by his Consumptive looks, to have received the Sentence of Death, which may bring him into the same place or State with the rest.

Feb. 28th. they set Sayle for Shipscot, but the wind failing, they were put in at Konnibeck, from whence Captain Fisk (with forty men were sent to the said place to seek after Plunder, where they found between thirty and forty Bushels of good wheat, which they brought away with them, several other things they lighted upon here, and there, some of which were brought away; As one or two great Guns, and some Anchors, from Saga-de-Hock, Boards from Arowsick, where they found an hundred thousand Foot, of which they brought home, enough for the lading of their Vessels, leaving the rest to be Transported in a more convenient Season.

While our Souldiers were upon Arowsick, two of the Enemy chancing to come upon the place, one of them presently received his Re…a…d, the other received his Payment, which yet is supposed to amount to the whole; The Canoo wherein he seemed to escape, being …ound the next day all bloody, and spli… asunder.

March the first, one of the Indian Squaws a Captive was sent to Taconet Fort, with a M…ssage to the Sagamores to Treat for the rest of the p. 72Captive… Five dayes were given her for her Return, which were not …xpired, when Major Waldern, with most of the Souldiers were called to return home towa…ds Boston, where they arrived March the eleventh. 1…76. 77. having first put in at Portsmouth Bringing along with them the bones, or rather the body of Captain Lake, p…eserven entire and whole and free from putr…faction by the coldness of the long winter, so as it was when found by the discretion of one that was near him when he was slain, easily discerned to be his, by such as had known him before.

It is hoped by those that returned, the Enemies are by this Encounter of the English so scattered and broken, that they will not be able to rally again suddenly, or make any after Attempt, if the presen… Advantage be seriously pursued. And thus have our Enemies themselves many of them fallen into the pit, which they have been digging for others.

This day also Letters were received from Major Pinchon of Springfield, but without mention of any appearance of Enemies in that Quarter, whereby we are encouraged to believe, that they have stumbled and fall…n downbackward, so as they shall never rise any more to make farther disturbance. That which crowned the present Service was the performing it without loss of blood; They all returning home in safety, not any one being missed; Let them accordingly remember to pay a suitable Tribute of Thankfulness to him, under whose Banner they went forth, and returned in Safety; And say with Moses the Servant of the Lord, IEHOVAH NISSI.

p. 73TO this Issue were our Troubles with the Indians brought in the end of the year, 1676.

That which hath been already said in that kind, may serve to give an Account of the Murthers, Slaughter…, Captivities of several persons of the English Inhabitants of New-England: together with the burning and spoyling of divers of their Villages and houses, spoyling of their Estates, by those their pe…fidious and barbarous Enemies. That which remains, is only to satisfie the Inquisitive Reader about some other particulars, which have a Relation unto, or dependance upon the former: as to shew what may be the principal and leading Causes Civil or moral, of those strange Successes of the Indians, in some of their first Encounters with the English there, what presages or other ominous Accidents were observed aforehand, what assistance they received from other Forreign Nations, French, or Dutch, what is since become of those Indians that were the Authors of the foresaid mischiefs, what progres… Christian Religion hath already made, or is like further to make amongst the rest, all which may serve as an Epilogue to the T…agical History, foregoing.

It is no d…ubt but that (as sometimes was said of the Divisions of Re… ben) there have been, and are great thoughts of heart amongst them that wish well to this poor Country; for the Calamities that of late have here fallen out, every one taking occasion to put that Construction upon what hath hapned, which suits best with his own understanding and humour. Possibly those that live at a distance have made many uncertain guesses at things which have passed here. For those that …ved upon the … have very sad Apprehensions both concerning the Rise and …ssue of …hem. In a matter therefore of so much difficulty to give the best account we can of the things under debate; It cannot be denyed but that things ever since the planting of these Colonies of New-England, they ha…e been signally bl…ssed of God, and made to flourish above many other Forreign …lantations, both for the number of Towns and Villages, Increase of Families, growth of Trade, flourishing of Religion, probably therefore, this sudden and unex…ected turn of Providence, may occasi…n m…ny to think, that either there hath been some notable De…ten…ion from former Principles and wayes, or else the world hath been p. 74much ab…s…d by former reports of our prosperous proceedings here. But it sh…uld be observed that Arguments taken barely from Success, and the Event of things, l…ke Cyph…rs standing alone and not joyned with others, as some have said, do not increase… the number, …he… the whol… Summe is to be made …p, they will sign…fie what they were intended for; Every thing is beautiful in its Sea…on, but in the mean tim… sad Events should rather be improved to our own Instruction than the condemning of others: following the dark Cloud of Providence without the …ery Pillar of the Scripture, will lead into uncertain paths. This is not the first time that Christian People have been exposed to many Outrages, and barbarous Calamities from their Pagan Neighbours, to whom they have been many wayes Offic…us. It is well known what hapned in the Neighbour Colony of Virginia on the twenty second of March, 1622. when by a general Conspir…cy of the Indians three hundred and forty seven persons of the English Planters, were barbarously massa…red; at that time when they had the greatest hopes of Converting them to Christianity; yet need no: this any whit discourage charitable Endeavours that way; for if it had not been for one Converted Indian, that revealed the Plot, in all likelihood all the rest of the English there planted, had been in like manner cut off at the same ti…. The Heathen in New-England are scituate in the same Climate, therefore cannot be supposed to be much differing in their manners and disposition. But besides that we are hemm'd in on both sides▪ and almost round about, with People of Forreign Nations, whole designe is neither Religion, nor yet planting Colonyes of Civil People, so much as present Emolument by Commerce and Traffick with the Indians, who notwithstanding their barbarous manner of living, are yet furnished with some rich and useful Commodities, for the obtaining of which, those that come amongst them have not been unwilling to offer them in way of Exchange, such Commodities as the Indians most fancy and desire, as Powder and Amunition, not considering how destructive the Trade thereof may prove to others, which hath made some wise m…n both fear and foretell the dangerous Issue of Trading those things with the Indians here. It hath been said the Hollanders used so to deal with the Spaniards, at such times as they had their fiercest Wars with them, saying, that if they did not, others would carry▪ those Commodities to their Enemies, which they thought they were as good to do themselves, that so in Case of bad Succes… in the Wars, the gain of the Barter might help to make amends for the loss of the Battle. The same Reason possibly put them upon the like practice in that part of this Country called the New-Netherlands: for which p. 75they have pre…ty well smarted themselves, as now they have helped others to do by their Example. Some prudent Gentlemen that governed in Virginia at the first, were aware of this mischief; wherefore it was strictly forbidden them, upon pain of death to shew a… Indian the use of a Gun; if the like Course had been continued here, it had scarc… been possible according to the Eye of Reason that so much mischief could have been done us by our Indian Neighbours, at this time more than in former years. Their wills were as good heretofore, but when they had nothing but Bows and Arrows to trust unto, they were capable of no such mischief: But now by their frequent Converse and Trading with the Dutch and French on each side of us, they are as well …kil'd in the use of small Artillery as many other Nations.

Their young men so much delighting therein, that upon point they mind little else, and are so proud of their Skill, that they thought they could easily deal with, if nor over-match their Masters; that first instructed them.

It is reported by an Ancient Marriner yet living in these parts, a person of good Credit, that above twenty years since being in the Eastern parts about Kennibeck, he heard an old Indian tell this story, that when he was a Youth, there was a Fort built about Saga-de-Hock (the Ruines of which were then shown this Relater, supposed to be that called St. Georges Fort in honour of Captain George Popham, the President of the Company sent over Anno, 1607.) And possessed for some time by the English: But afterward upon some Quarrel that fell out betwixt the Indians and them, the English were some of them killed by the said Indians, and the rest all driven out of the Fort, where there was left much of their Provision and Amunition; amongst which there was some Barrels of Powder, but after they had opened them, and not knowing what to do therewith, they left the Barrels carelesly open, and scattered the Powder about, so as accidentally it took fi…e, and blew up all that was within the Fort, burnt… and destroyed many of the Indians, upon which they conceived their God was Angry with them for doing hurt to the English; It had been well these Indians never had had any other acquaintance with the nature of that Commodity, then by such Experimental knowledge of its Force and power. But Covetousness was and will be the Root of all evil in every Age of the World, of which this may be reckoned one, and not the least, that for the sake of a little Lucre, Civil and Christian Nations have been induced to instruct a barbar…us and Salvage People (before ever they had been reduced to good order or Civil manners, much less Christianity, in the use of our A…tillery, p. 76and furnish them likewise with Amunition, to improve that Skill to the destruction of themselves, and their Posterity. Th…mas Mar…in was said to be the first that like Epimetheus opned this Pandora's Box but he was not the Vulcan, that forged all their G…s, with other weapons of, War they are found so well furnished withall.

The Commiss…ners of our united Colonyes have for a long time carefully and seriously endeavoured the preventing this Inconveniency in every of the three Colonyes, by strict prohibition of Trading Amunition with the Indians; Nor hath it been given way unto, till of late years, when by the continual Sollicitation of some of our own People (that possibly since have paid dearly for their forwardness therein) who a…leadged the Example of the French and Dutch, and of some of our own Na…ion bo… dering upon us; The former restraint hath been taken off, and it is verily supposed that as to some of our People, that in the last Insurrection of the Indians amongst us, have felt both… the first and worst part of their, Rage and Cruelty; it was Effected by the Amunition not long before, pu…chased of themselves, which it may be was reserved for that very end and p…rpose. It is no small Aggravation of the misery befalling a place or person, when it is known to be brought about, by means of their own p…ojecting; As sometimes was said to the Tyrant s…ain by a weapon of his own forging, suo sibi hunc jugulo▪ gladio.

But if Enquiry be made into the moral and procuring Causes, whereby God hath been provoked to let loose the Rage of the H…athen thus against us; It is not hard to give an Answer. The S…ver…gn Ruler▪ of the World need never pick a Quarrel with any sort of men (the best of his Servants at all times giving him too just occasion of Controversy with them) or be to seek of a ground why to bring a Scourge upon them, having also other holy ends why he contends with his People; of which he is not bound to render the world an account: It may be Reason enough to work in them a S…mpathy for the Sufferings and Calamityes of others: or to keep them from being exalted above measure; or to humble and prove them, that they should not by their long Peace and Prosperity b… ready to look upon themselves as less sinners than others, who have drunk deep of the Cu… of Trembling before them: To prevent what Evil may, as well as reform what is already grown up amongst them. Standing waters are most ap… to corrupt, Gods Dispensations of this n…ture in the world, are usuelly observed to be for Correction of the Vices, as well as for the Tryal of the Virtues found in his Servants, And what people or person is there upon the …ce of the Earth, who hath not Reason to lay their hand upon their mouths, and to abhor themselves p. 77in dust and ashes, if the Almighty shou'd go about to enter into Iudgement with them: No doubt but after so long a time of Peace and Prosperity, as hath been enjoyed, the like Corruptions have began to … forth, as are usual in such a Case, as Pride, Luxury, Inordinate Love of the World, &c. Nor need He be instructed by men, what Instruments to make use of, in the chastning of his People: Why may not God as well as G…deon teach the men of Suc…oth, and of other places, by the Briers and Thorns of the Wilderness. If a more particular Indagation of the foreign or the very original Offence in this matter be expected; All things considered, it may be feared to spring from some Irregularities and miscarriages in our Transactions and dealings with the Indians themselves, according to that known Rule. In quo q…s peccat in eo punitur, yet must not this be understood, so as to … upon the People of the Vnited Colonyes in the Gross: Whose supream Courts in their several Jurisdictions, have endeavoured by the sharpest and severest Laws imaginable to prevent any miscarriage of such a nature; But it hath arisen only from such places & persons as border upon us round about, both Southward and Eastward, yet never were, nor would be, subject to the Laws of our Iurisd…tion, nor had nay Reprovor in the Gate, or Magistrate to put he Offenders to shame Such as make the Advantage they have in their heads the Rule for their Consciences to act by; It is no wonder if they be ready to transgress the Rules both of Sobriety and Righteousness in their deali…gs with men, as well as Piety before God, The things that the Ind…ans are more eager to Trade for, being known to be either strong Liquor or Powder, and Am…nition: And many have been found Indirectly and under hand to gratifie their humour therein. The one hath proved alwayes most hur…ful to themselves, the other …eared (and justly as it hath been proved) most destructive to our selves. The more sober and prudent of the Indians have alwayes most bitterly complained of the T…ading of strong Liquor in our English, as well as in the French and Dutch, whose ordinary Custome i… first, to make them, or suffer them to make themselves drunk with Liquors, and then to Trade with them, when they may easily be cheated both in what they bring to Trade, and in the Liquor it self, being one half or more nothing but Spring water, which made one of the Amonos…oggin Indians once complain that he had given an hundred Pound for water drawn out of Mr. P. his Well. But this is not all the Evil that atten…s this wicked Trade of strong Liquor, for when they are drunke therewith, they are ready to fight with their Friends, Parents, Brethren, &c. Yea, often have murthered one another. Should I not be avenged on such a People, p. 78or persons as these saith the Lord? Good old Iacob sometimes complained after the Villany of his two Sons, committed upon the S…bechemite…, that he was made to stink in the sight of the People of the Land, and that be should be destroyed he and his house: It is well if some of our Borderer… have not had cause, not only to fear, but to feel the like Calamity in Reference to themselves, or some of theirs, thus what hath been gotten over the back of the evil Fiend is lost under his belly according to the Proverb.

Besides all this, it hath been observed of many of these scattering Plantations in our Borders, that many were contented to live without, yea, desirous to shake off all yoke of Government, both sacred and Civil, and so Transforming themselves as much as well they could into the manners of the Indians they lived amongst, and are some of them therefore most deservedly (as to Divine Iustice) left to be put under the yoke and power of the Indians themselves, and hence it is that in many parts, the people void of Councel and common prudence as well as Courage, have so frightfully deserted, or Cowardly delivered up several places of strength (though Tenable enough of themselves) into the hands of Contemptible Enemies; and so like Ripe Figs upon the first sh…king of the Tree, have been ready to fall into the mouth of the Eater, as the Prophet speaks; As hath been too sadly verified in some of the Southern, and all the Eastern parts.

If it be here Objected, that the same or like Calamit…s have befallen many of those places and persons; where no such Evils could justly be complained of; It may as easily be Answered, and that from the observation of Heathen themselves, that in such publick Calamities, it is not easy to distinguish between the good and the bad, sape Diespiter, iratus incesto add…dit integrum. The Righteous many times have an equal share with the wicked. In these Cases saith Solomon, all things come alike to all, no man knoweth love or …atred by all that is before him: The Confused Events of worldly Affairs, are oft times so limited and restrained by the holy hand and wise Providence of God, that it is hard to find a difference; therefore concerning such places, which may be thought not touched with the guilt of the forementioned miscarriages, yet have by the overruling band of Providence been not withstanding made … suffer as deeply as others. I judge them not, yet hope, if they have ought for which to judge themselves before him that searcheth the hearts, they will take occasion hereby to humble themselves under the mighty hand of God, that in his due time they may be Exalted to their former Tranquility and P…ace.

p. 79When Gods Judgements are abroad in the Earth, then should the Inhabitants of the World lea…n Righteousness. This C…ion is judged the more necessary here to be added, in that it is the genera… observation of all indiffer… and unconcerned persons about the like Troubles; That they have ordinarily either begun, or have fallen heaviest upon t…ose places and p…rsons that have had most to do in the Trading with Indians.

If any such have as yet escaped their hands, to be sure they have been Threatned, as if they had been before others, particularly lookt upon by them, as the Obj…ct of their Revenge, which makes some moderate persons fear, that those men have either themselves offended in that kind, or else have connived at others under them, to carry on the Traffick with the Indians, by such wayes and m…ans, that have been as well offensive to God, as injurious to those they have Traded wi…h.

In the second place, touching the various Success we have met withal, in our several Encounters with the Indians, Victory and Conquest did … a long time seem to stand Neuter, and our Condition and Warfare not much unlike the Conflict between Israel and Amal…k in the Wilderness, nor can it be denyed …ut that our Enemies for a time had great Success in their Outrages, Providence as it were seeming to offer them opportunities of doing us much mischief; when we could find none of taking just Revenge: Things of that nature being strangely either hid from the Eyes of the Leaders, or else the weather hath so …allen out as that it was not possible for our men to have pursued them: Although both the Commanders and Souldiers, sent …orth from all the three Colonyes, have joyntly and severally pursued their Advantages, with in…Credible hazard and diligence, and with as I…cible Courage as ordinarily hath been found amongst men. But as it is said, the Battle is not alwayes to the strong, nor the Race to the swift, but Time and Chance hath strangely Interposed to the prolonging of our miseries, and the hardning and embold…ing of our Enemies: Much of our disappointments, and the loss of many of our Forces engaging with them, must be imputed in a great measure to our mens unacquaintedness with the manner of their fighting, they doing most of their mischiefs, either by Ambushments, sudden surprizals, or overmatching some of our small Companyes with greater numbers, h… ving …ad many times six or seven to one: Possibly also many of our Overthrows have proceeded from our too much Confidence in our own weapons, Courage and Martial Discipline Not making Allowance for the difference of Times, when th…v before engaged us, only with Bows p. 80and A…ro…s, but now came to fight us with our own weapons) which …ath proved no small Advantage to our Enemies, and disadvantage to our selves; or else to the distance of our Towns one from the other so as ofttimes they were destroyed, or in danger the…of, before any notice was taken of their danger. If that be a sure Rule whereby Valour is to be judged, plus animi est inferenii p…ricul…m quam propulsant…, s…. that there is more Courage seen in the Assaylants, than in the Defendants; a few of our men have frequently defended the…selves against multitudes of them, unless at such times when Provide…e seemed as it were to trouble the Wheels of our Motions, and fight against us, so as ordinarily our people used not to want Courage: For at Lancaster where they seemed to have had the greatest Cause of boasting for their Success in any Assault (although it were since known, that they had five hundred fighting men when they Assaulted that small Town of about fifty Familyes) yet were they able to surprize but one garrison house, which neither was fenced round, nor were the Defendants able to ply their shot behind it, but so as the Enemy came to the very Walls and Roof on the back side with their Fuel, or else they had never been able to have dispossessed the Inhabitants. The same Indians within a while after, had not been able to have done the mischief at Groaton which they did, had not a Garrison been unadvisedly as it were delivered into their hands. In one word they were more beholding to their perfidious Subtlety and Falshood, or to the Advantage of Season, place, and Number than nay Valour or Courage in all their Victoryes, shewing only a Belluine Rage and fierceness, when they had an opportunity in their hands to destroy or do mischief. For soon after when the time of Vengeance was come, and God seemed to owne the Cause of his People, a small handful of our men hath surprized hundreds of theirs, as hath been already declared in the Narrative. The Dispensations of the Almighty have been very awful towards us, for a long time, not seeming to go forth with our Armies, nor helping us in defending our selves, or defeating of our Enemies, as if he had a purpose and designe to bring a sharp Scourge upon us, by that means to humble us, and pro…e us, and then (as we trust) to do us good in our latter end: acting therein as wise Parents that after they have corrected their Children, to cast the Rod into the Fire. For our Enemies to the Southward, were in the beginning of these Troubles, possessed of many goodly Havens, many rich and Fertile places, as at Moun…-Hope, and all along the Narrh…agansit Country. But are by this occasion, (quarrelling with us without cause) themselves in a manner all destroyed by the special hand of God, and p. 81their Posterity quire rooted out, as were the P…quots before them, whereby it may be gathered a… we hope, that God is making way to settle a better people in their rooms, and in their stead; when, the whole frame of Gods Counsels, and purposes are put together, and accomplished by the Issues of his Providence, it will, not doubt, appear a work very beautiful in its Season, not only for the glory of the Author but for the good and benefit of his people, that are concerned therein.

As for pred…ctions, or presages of these late Troubles,

Something of that nature hath been observed by some Iudicious persons in reference to the present Calamities, of which something hath already been published to the World, concerning which I have nothing to adde, only that some such things have been affirmed by credible persons, as presages of what hath lately come to pass. The noyse of Guns is affirmed by many, to have heen heard in the Ayre, in sundry places not many years before; Concerning which the Judicious Reader may take what notice he pleaseth. Although I would not be too forward in obtruding uncertain Reports upon the belief of the far distant Reader, especially considering how much the world hath oft been abused with false Coyn… of the like nature.

But for other predictions of the present Calamities, some wise men have thought it not unworthy to be communicated to Posterity what hath been observed amongst the Indians themselves, as if either God himself had left some Impression on the minds of some of them this way, or that by some strange Instinct or other, they had some Reason to forbode the Troubles now begun, although not yet …ded, sed dabit Deus his quo que finem, in his own time.

There was within the Compass of the last seven years now current, a Sagamore ab…ut Ki…tary, or the North-East side of Pascataqua River, called Roules, or Rolles; who lying very sick, and bed rid, (being an old man) he expected some of the English, that had seazed …pon his Land, should have shewn him that Civility, as to have given him a visit in his Aged Infirmityes, and sickness; It matters not much, whether it was totally neglected or not; to be sure at the last he sent for the chief of the Town, and desired a favour of them, viz. that though he might, as he said, challenge all the Plantation for his own, where they dwelt, that yet they would please to sell or give him a small Tract of Land, possibly an …ndred or two of Acres, and withal desired it might be Recorded in the Town Back, as a picblick Act, that to his Children which he left behind, might not be turned out, like Vaga…onds, as destitute of …n habitation amongst, or near the English, adding this as the Reason; That he knew p. 82there would shortly fail out a War between the Indians and the English all ove… the Country, and that the Indians at the first should prevail, and do much mischief to the English, and kill many of them; But after the third ye…r, or after three … all the Indians which so did, should be roo…ed out, and utterly destroyed.

This Story is reported by Major Waldern, Mr. Ioshuab… Moodey, Captain Frost, that live upon, or near the place. And one of the three forementioned persons was desired by the said Saga… to make a Record hereof. Valeat quantum valere potest …ut deb…. Many Stories of like … are confid…ntly told, by such as have been more …o versant w…th the Indians, which shewed that either the Conspiracy was a long while in Cont…ving, or else that some Impression was by a Divine hand made upon the minds of some of them.

For the actings of our Neighbour N…tions round about us, whether they have had actually any hand in our S…fferings, either ins…gating of our Enemies, o… secretly and underhand supplying them with nec… ssaries where with to carry on their designe against us, without whose …ssi…tance it is supposed they cou…d hardly thus long have …eld out. It is no question bu… there are those in the world, that say A…a, … the Calamities of our Sion, and that like Edom in Ierusalems day cry, Rase it, Rase it, even to the Found…tion thereof: But for our n…a… Ne…ghbours, whether Dutch or French, their designe in their several Planta…ions, being solely, or principally Trade, and knowing that as forme…ly they …, so may they still have more benefi…, and Advantage by our Commerce and Traffick than by our Ruine; it seems therefore not so probable, that they should promote or designe such a wicked end to themselves, much less that they should joyne with Pagan Infidels therein; more Charity we judge is due to them that profess the Christian Name, whatever … or Superstition their Religion or worship may be blinded with

We may well conceive that either of them would not be much unwilling to part with any thing they have to sell for Beaver, nor would they very s…rupulously enquire what the Indians do with their Pow…e…; provid…d they could get their pay for it, no more than the Cutler did, to know (as the Tal… goes) what the Cutpurse did with the k…i…e he made him: But that purposely either of them have furnish…d …ur Enemies with m…ans to do us m…schief, we are not forward to believe.

As for the French a… Cannada they live at … grea… a distance, to …a…e much Comm…rce with … Enemies: And besi…es they are not t…emselv…s so secure of the Indians they deal with as to be forwa…d to … others, … th…r… by they come to lea…n the way to p. 83fall upon themselves. And besides it hath been affirmed by some of their own Nation, that not long since were there, and passed home this way, that they are more aff…aid of Attempts from hence, than we have cause to be from them.

Other Reports possibly have been tak…n up concerning us, as if we were divided in our Counsels, and were too tenacious of our goods, and readier to keep them so our Enemies, than prudently to lay ou… what was necessary for our own defence and preservation: no question b…t many such Rumours as these have taken place, in the minds of … ▪ Bu… it is hoped that such as are wise and serious, will not give too much to sinister Report till they are rightly enformed. Greater Vnity of minds in things of such a nature, hath seldome been found amongst men, that might all along have been observed here. If in any thing propo…nded for the better carrying on the war against the Indians, there hath been some difference of apprehension either from the seeming Impossibiity and Ardu…sness of the A…tempt, or difficulty of the Season; it never occasioned the least Remo…a of the Action, though in things of the greatest moment. Nor was there ever any difficulty in the disb…rsing what was necessary for carrying on the Affairs of the War, how chargeable soever and Expensive it hath been found. The scarcity of Coy… hath occasioned a little Trouble in some present E…cigent, otherwise no Reason hath been given of any just complaint this way. But it being the usual Lot of them that are most sorely afficted of God, to be most deeply censured of men, but we must expect to pass through Evil as well as good Report.

Possibly a…s… some may here take notice of a very distinguishing P…ovidence in these our late Troubles, in that this Rod of Affliction hath seemed not …o…ly, in an equal proportion upon the body of the people of New-England; which is no new thing to observe in Calamities of this nature; wherein it is very ordinary for those parts of a Country that lye next boraering upon the Coast of the common Enemy to be most obnoxicus to their Incu…sion, and to be more frequently than other… harness…d the…eb…; As hath been the Case of us here in these paris of the Earth, ever since the first planting thereof: The great … of the Salvages being swept away by some unusual mortality in all those places, where the body of the people that came over …ither, … themselves; so as they were not so lyable to their Injuryes and Insolenci…s, as those were, who not long after were called to plant the more remo…r parts of the Country, where were greater numbers of them left. Which was the occasion that the said Colony of Connecticut was then sorely afflicted with t…e Pequods at their fi…st planting, when above … of them fell into the p. 84hands of those cruel miscreants, they bordering next or near upon them, so as they had an opportunity to assault them in their first Attempt for planting that side of the Country, as sometimes Amalck did unto Isr…el of old. Further also it may be considered, that our Brethren of Connecticut have had no small part of this present …yal, in that they have been necessarily called to lend their assistance to the other Colonyes, which they have upon all occasions (to their honour be it spoken) most readily and freely done, not only by their Articles of Confederation, but as they were of necessity constrained in common prudence for their own safety to do—iam proxim… ardet Vealegon: he that will not help to quench the fire kindled in his Neighbours house, may justly …ear to loose his own. It may truly be said also, that they have had their turn in like troubles at the first band, their Fleeces being only wetred with a like bloody showre, when the ground all about was dry; as now the contrary hath …emed to fall out. To be sho…t we are all but one Political body, which ought to be sensible of the Sorrows that befell any particular members thereof: we all came over into these parts of America, with one and the same end and aime, viz▪ to enjoy the libertyes of the Gospel in purity and peace, and to advance the Kingdome of our Lord …sus Christ, and b…ing in our first setling, (by the wise Providence of God) farther dispersed upon the Sea Coasts and Rivers, then was at first intended, so that we could not according to our desire communicate, in one Government a…d Iurisdiction, and being likewise where welive, encompassed with people of several Nations, which may prove injurious, as they have formerly committed insolencies, and Outrages upon several of our Plantations, we were necessi…ated to enter into a Consociation amongst our selves for m…tual help and strength in such conc…rnme…ts as have now fallen out, as is expressed in the Preface to the Articles of Confederation, agreed upon May twenty ninth, 1643.

In the last place, upon the consideration of these late Vproars amongst the Indians, some may be like to ecquire, what is become of the Conversion of the Natives, so much famed abroad, and what progress the Gospet hath made amongst them, fearing (as well they may) it is like to be not a …ittle obstr…cted hereby. It may probably be supposed, that th… pious endeavours of some to preach the Gospel amongst several of the Indian Natives, hath given the first occasion of the Quarrel, as usually it hath done in the world, But that Opposition meeting with no better Success in the Southern parts, than the Ruine of those that made the first …bellion against us, Satan hath lately changed himself into an Angel of Light, under that shape, making this his last Attempt, to the Eas…ward▪ p. 85For the chief Leader of those Indians is a Sagamore called Squando, who hath (as is said by them that lately escaped from their hands familiar Converse with the Prince of Darkness, though under the notion of a good Deity, putting him upon a form of Religion, and forbidding any acts of Cru…lty and murther to be used against any they oppose, if they be willing to yield, and in that way promising great Success to his Followers, what the Issues of his proceedings will be, God only knows, and a little time may discover. But for those that before these troubles have professedly owned the Christian Name, many of them have given notable proof of their sincerity, by fighting against their, and out Enemies, and have been very successful in their Endeavours: as well these in the upper parts of Cape-…od, commonly called Cape Indians. as those about Natick, and Hassinameset, within the Massachuset Iurisdiction. It is not my purpose to enlarge much on this hand, that I might not raise the expectation of the world to greater matters than for the present do appear.

There are about six Societies of Indians in the Country, who have professedly owned themselves Christians; In every one of which it is supposed there are some, that do make a serious profession of the Christian Religion. The Salvation of whose Souls is worth far more pains and cost than ever yet was laid out upon that work.

It is not a small thing, that in these dark places of the Earth, which in all Ages past, since mankind had any knowledge thereof, have been full of nothing but the habitations of Cruelty, the light of the Gospel should take so much place, as to cause any number of those Vassa…s of Satan where he so long hath had his Throne, professedly to owne the Name of the Lord Iesus Christ. What Harvest is like to be of the Bod… of them, in the present, or in the future time, is not for any of us to speak: neither at what hour, or under what Viall, they shall be sent to labour in Gods Vineyard, least we should there by seem to ent…ch upon the Sovereignty of the Almighty, in whose hands are the times and Seasons of grace, as well as of nature. There are many Nations in the world, to this day, lying out from the Kingdome of the Lord Iesus, who were never yet known professedly to owne his Scepter, although probably the Gospel hath at some time or other been preached unto them, or sent amongst them; It may be, only to be a Testimony unto them, and so to leave them without excuse another day.

Whether any farther end in Reference to these amongst our selves is aimed at, in the wise and unsearchable Counsels of the great God, is known only to himself, and may be thought more convenient for him that writes, and them that read the present Narrative, to leave to the p. 86after determination of future Events, rather than to intrude our selves into that which is out of our Line, or beyond our Sphere. Thus much without offence may be affirmed, that in all the habitable places of the Earth, whereever God hath, or ever had a People calling upon his Name, never any notable work of Religion was known to take much place, where some kind of Civility, and Culture of good manners, had not gone before.

Adde quod ingenuas, didiciss… Fideliter Artes: Emollit mores, nec sinit esse feros.

God in his natural Providence, hath taught the Husbandman to plough the ground, to break and open the Clods thereof, before he casts in the Seed: In the dispensation of his grace …e usually observes the same method; to break up the fallow grounds of the Nations of the world, and not to sow among Thorns. When he that sits upon the white horse, with his Bow and his Crown, and went sorth conquering and to conquer, it was amongst the Civil, and not amongst the Barbarous and Salvage Nations of the World: They that preach the Gospel else will have a double Task, (the least of which hath been found ha…d enough for the best of men, who is sufficient for these things, saith St. Paul) the great Apostle of the Gentiles to convert men, First, from Salvage Paganisme, then to Christianity. It is commonly said that the Turks will not admit a Iew to become a Mahometan, till he hath first turned Christian… To be sure we rarely find any Gentill Nation turned Christian before they became Humane. Divine Providence hath improved the Roman Sword to make way for the Scepter of the Gospel of Peace. That Civility that is found amongst the Natives of this Country; hath hitherto been carryed on and obtained, only by the gentle means of Courtesy, Familiarity, and such like civil behaviour, which in other places was never yet attended with any eminent Success that way. It seems some Religious Gentlemen in Virginia, had great hopes of the Conversion of the … to Christianity, a lit…e before the Massac…e there; The means p…incipally used by them was Familiarity and …dness: One Mr. Thorps well re…uted for Religion, and in Command one of the principal in Virginia, did so truly affect the Conversion of the Indians there, that whosoever under him did them the least displeasure, were punished severely. He thought nothing too dear for them▪ And to content th…m in all things, he c…sed many English Mastives to be killed, and would have … a Course to …ave sufficiently tamed the rest. He conferred often with their great Sachem about Religion, and made him confess that the English mans p. 87God was better than the Indians: This Gentle man out of his good meaning was so full of Confidence and void of Suspition, that he would never believe an… hurt of them, till he … their cruel hands imbrued in his own blood; they barbarously murthering him amongst the rest. Mr. Stockain a serious and Iudicious Minister in Virginia, & Pious also, for ought is here of his Life at that …ime when all things were so prosperous there, & the Salvages were thought to be at the point of Conversion, against the Opinions of all others, …oth Governours and Council, wrote his mind to the Council and Company in England about this point in these words.

For the Conversion of the Salvages, I wonder you use not the means: I confess you say well to have them converted by fair means; but they scorne to acknowledge it; As for the gifts bestowed on them, they devour them, and so they would the givers if they could. Many have endeavoured by kindness to convert them, yet find nothing from them, but derision and Ridiculous Answers: We have sent Boyes among them to learn their Language, but they return worse than they went: But I am no States man, nor love I to meddle with any thing but my Books; But I can find no probability, by this Course to draw them to good…ess: And I am perswaded if Mars and Minerva go hand in hand, they will effect more good in an hour than those Verbal Mercurians in their lives: Adding that the…e will be no op… of their Conversion till their Priests (possi…ly he meant th…ir Powaws) be removed from them. The natural barbarousn…ss and perfidiousness of their disposition may in part be gathered by this Story

When some of Pocasse… Indians in Plimouth Iurisdiction had professed their Service to Captain Church; as they were in pursuit of the Indians our Enemies, one of the said Indians from the top of an hill discerned a Company of Wigwams, where those they went to seek, had taken up their Stations, he called to his Captain, and pointing to one of … …u…ermost Wigwams, told him that was his Father… Wigwa…, and asked if he must now go and kill his Father; No saith Cap…ai… …ourch, do b…t shew me wher… he is and I will deal with him, do you fall upon some others: to which the said Indian only replyed in broken Engl…sh; That very good speak; whereby their natural Persidiousness even to their nearest Relations may be observed, which makes their Treachery towards us their F…r…eign Neighbours, the less to be wondred at. And therefore till … be reduced to more Civi…ity, some wise men are ready to … Religion wil… not take much place amongst the body of them.

Likewise when Philip was k…pt in the Swamp at Pocosset, it is certainly …ffirmed that several of their young Chi…ar…n were ki…d by themselves, p. 88that they might … be betrayed by their crying, or be …indred with them in their … they made their escape.

The generality of the Indians in New-England are in their … and na…ural disp…s…ion, not much unlike those in Virginia living much in the same Climate; who have likewise made an Insurrection, much about the same time this year, as our Indians did with us: But God who is able to graft in again the unbelieving Iews, is able also of these stones to raise up Children unto A…ra…am: And if it be the pleasure of the So…e…ereign Lord of Heaven and Earth, to impart the Salvation of the Gospel to any of these, far be it from any of us to repine at his grace, or neglect any due means lying in our Capacity or reach to help forward that blessed work, who knows what tendency the present troubles may have to such an End. For though a great number that are implacable and imbittered against us in their Spirits, may be for the sake of our Religion found …ardned to their own destruction, yet a Re…nans may be reserved, and afterward called forth, by the power of the Gospel, to give glory, … the God of all the Earth.

Errata.

PAge 2. l. 20. for to r. at. l. 36. r. Arowsick. pag. 3. l. 1. Magazine. pag. 5. l. 5. for in r. is. l 1…. for which r. within. l. 19. for. and r. are. l. 26, r. Spurwinke. l. 29. for promotor r. Propri…tour. pag. 6. l. 5. r. real. p. 8 l. 30. for writes r. Suits. p. 9. l. 12 for Soyle r. Seat. l. 17. for off r. that of late. l. 22 for 29. r. 39. l. 34. … Tho. Iupe. p. 13. l. 1. Vipers a full point. l. ult. r. Mallet. p. 16. l. 5. for Waterly. r. Wakely. and so else where. p. 19. l. …leave out so. p. 18. l. 38. … Tuesday. p 45. r Ghendal. p. 56. l. 12. r. 11. p. 30. pass before. r. pass free. p. 67 l. 8. your for …rs. p 71. l. 36. for Payments r. in part. p. 76. l. 29. leave out things. p. 76. l. 2. for Martin r. Morton. p. 77. l. 2…. for head r. hand. l. 28. leave out best. p. 82. l 27. for blinded r. blena…d. p. 83. 1. 24: leave out but. l. 31. for harnass…d r. harrassed. p. 87. l 4 for Stockain r. Stockam.

FINIS.

End of the text · William Hubbard, Narrative of the Troubles with the Indians in New England (1677)