No. 38.— 1889.] THE DUTCH IN CEYLON, 1602-1757. 7 



Among other matters, the high honour and esteem in 

 which Heer Hulft is held. 



His Majesty requests to be informed how, after taking- 

 possession of Colombo, Jaffanapatnam and Manaar can also 

 be taken. 



Sends his Dessaves down to accompany Heer Hulft. Two 

 letters written by His Excellency in answer to those of the 

 Portuguese. 



Heer Hulft undertakes the journey, and is received with 

 unusual honour. 



His Majesty abides by the agreement concluded with 

 Westerwold, on the proposition of Heer Hulft. 



Further conversation between the King and Heer Hulft. 



His Excellency's return from the Court, and his sad death. 



Of this Heer van der Meyden informs the Prince, who 

 thereupon sends his Dessaves and Adigaar to express his 

 sympathy, and to inquire into the cause of the sad occurrence. 



His Majesty shows further sympathy, and desires an 

 interview with Heer van der Meyden. He wishes the 

 jewels and presents of Heer Hulft to be sent to his friends 

 in the Netherlands ; and to know what further steps are 

 to be taken for the subjection of Colombo. 



Writes to Heer van der Meyden that he has every con- 

 fidence in the loyal services of the Netherlander, and 

 intends writing to that effect to the Netherlands. 



Wishes them to inform him in time of the conclusions at 

 which they have arrived, &c. 



His Majesty also ordered the Sabandhaar at Gale to see 

 that the most favourable view was taken by Heer van der 

 Meyden of the mistakes in his letters. 



Y s Godskens, who had been sent to His Majesty, 

 returned with three Courtiers, announcing that His Majesty 

 would like the attack postponed until April 30. 



This they had resolved to undertake on the night of the 27th; 

 but put off until May 7, when the attack was made upon 

 St. Jan, and the bastion taken. 



The Prince's flag planted upon it, and articles of agree- 

 ment drawn up with the Portuguese ; thereafter followed 

 the surrender of Colombo. 



Letters received from His Majesty, retracting the agree- 

 ment made with Heer Hulft. 



Anger of His Majesty and the departure of his Dessaves 

 to the Pass Naklegam : this is considered by Heer van der 

 Meyden and Council a great mistake. 



Charge to the Corporal stationed there not to prevent the 

 passage of His Majesty's subjects. 



His Majesty's anger increases, and he insists on the sur- 

 render of Nigombo and Colombo. 



