the out-cry of the Merchant, hath in a manner
forced out our Fleet, sooner than was intended;
for, on Monday last, they went from the Texell &
the Ulye, and its supposed, that before this time
they are with Admiral Tromp in the Maze, from
whence he intends to make sail with de wit, Ruyter
& Everson, who make about 85 ships in number,
among whom there are some Capers, and Fireships.
Such Merchant-men as are ready they intend
to have out with them to convoy, and then
according to order, they are to ply Northerly,
there to turn off these Merchantmen which they
carry out, and (if possible) meet with our French
fleet of Merchants, who are returning home
round about; that they may be convoyed safely.
But yet our Merchants here, and indeed the
whole Country, are full of doubts and fears touching
the success of our Fleets, and are much amazed
to hear how great a Fleet is set out by the
English, intelligence being com that you are 116
fail Men of war of good force; and that 50 more
would in a short time be ready; so that men know
not what to think or say of things, but we are in
hope that our men will doe bravely. If they doe
not, the Lords have taken a course to shew them
what they must expect. For, these Captains who
did not acquit themselves in the last Engagement,
being condemned, are order'd to be sent hence
to the Fleet, there to receive reward, in view of
their fellow. Seamen, according to their merits
It's said abroad, that some are to be hang'd, and
some duckt, to instruct others by their Example.
[unr] Of our 300 Merchant men that are returning