Ko. 38.— 1889.] THE DUTCH IN CEYLON, 1602-1757. 53 



On April 1, Heer Hulft was informed by letter that some 

 Courtiers were sent to conduct him to the Court. They 

 declared that His Majesty was looking forward with longing 

 to the time of meeting His Excellency and hearing the 

 music of his voice. 



Everything being prepared, Heer Hulft undertook the 

 journey on April 5, and on the 8th was admitted to an audience 

 with every mark of honour, as is recorded more fully by 

 Heer Baldeus : it is therefore unnecessary to mention every 

 detail here. 



It is, however, worth relating that when Heer Hulft had 

 reached the middle of the audience chamber, His Majesty 

 arose from his throne, and requested him to come nearer. 



Heer Hulft then addressed His Majesty in respectful terms 

 saying that their Excellencies had sent him to ascertain 

 whether His Majesty was pleased to abide by the treaty made 

 with Heer Westerwold, or if he preferred to have a new 

 contract drawn up, in which case any favourable clauses 

 desired by His Majesty would be inserted. 



Upon His Majesty testifying his satisfaction with the 

 existing treaty, Heer Hulft recapitulated briefly the victories 

 gained over the enemy, and added that there still remained 

 three important matters already represented to His Majesty, 

 and to the disposal of which he is desired to give his attention. 

 Firstly, about the coolies requested, the necessity for whom 

 would be explained to His Majesty, if desired, by the 

 merchant Ysbrand Godskens, who could give every infor- 

 mation. But His Majesty gave orders for the Courtiers 

 to retire, and requested Heer Hulft also to direct his suite 

 to remain outside : they then remained in conference for 

 another quarter of an hour, when Heer Hulft was dismissed 

 with every mark of friendship. 



On April 9, 1656, Heer Hulft returned from Court ; and 

 on the following morning inspected the works, as also in the 

 evening, but was unfortunately mortally wounded by a 

 chance musket shot of the Portuguese, from which he died 

 soon after. 



