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JOURNAL, R.A.S. (CEYLON). [VOL. XL 



A letter was afterwards received from His Majesty dated 

 August 15, to which Heer Van Kittensteyn replied on 

 September 2, desiring His Majesty not to be displeased at 

 the delay in the capture of Colombo ; he may further 

 rest assured that it was far from our intention to appro- 

 priate a foot of His Majesty's dominions, more especially 

 Colombo, which will be given up to His Majesty when con- 

 quered. 



Soon after this Heer Van Kittensteyn was replaced by 

 Heer Adriaen van der Meyden, who, after taking up the 

 reins of 'government upon the departure of his prede- 

 cessor to the Indian headquarters, informed His Majesty of 

 it by a letter dated October 25, 1653, other letters being 

 afterwards interchanged between them. 



In 1655 Heer Gerald Hulft, the Director-General of India, 

 appeared off Ceilon with a formidable fleet, and on October 15, 

 brought the fortress of Caliture, under the power of the 

 Company, and took the necessary measures for besieging 

 Colombo. A letter was received from the Court professing 

 great pleasure at his arrival. His Majesty was also supposed 

 to have said that although Heer Van Kittensteyn and Van 

 der Meyden had promised to deliver the city of Colombo up 

 to him, he was indifferent, provided he could have the honour 

 of the conquest, and that the Company might expect special 

 benefits by the conquest. 



By a letter dated October 29, 1655, His Majesty again 

 expressed his satisfaction at the arrival of Heer Hulft and 

 the fleet, as well as at the capture of Caliture, adding that 

 His Majesty had already issued his commands to his 

 Dessaves and principal officers for the mustering of his 

 forces. 



On November 9, 1655, Heer Hulft and his Council resolved 

 to attack the town of Colombo. The necessary orders were 

 given ; and every one had his duties and position assigned 

 him. The attack took place on the 12th of the month, but 

 was repulsed with great loss, and had to be postponed 

 for another occasion. 



