The New Atlantis: Part 1
We sailed from Peru, (where we had continued by the space of one whole year,) for China
and Japan, by the South Sea; taking with us victuals for twelve months; and had good winds
from the east, though soft and weak, for five months space, and more. But then the wind
came about, and settled in the west for many days, so as we could make little or no way,
and were sometimes in purpose to turn back. But then again there arose strong and great
winds from the south, with a point east, which carried us up (for all that we could do),
towards the north; by which time our victuals failed us, though we had made good spare of
them. So that finding ourselves, in the midst of the greatest wilderness of waters in the
world, without victuals, we gave ourselves for lost men and prepared for death. Yet we did
lift up our hearts and voices to God above, who showeth his wonders in the deep,
beseeching him of his mercy, that as in the beginning he discovered the face of the deep,
and brought forth dry land, so he would now discover land to us, that we might not perish.
[Footnote 1: Within sight.]
[Footnote 2: Woods.]
[Footnote 3: Staves.]
And it came to pass that the next day about evening, we saw within a kenning1
before us, towards the north, as it were thick clouds, which did put us in some hope of
land; knowing how that part of the South Sea was utterly unknown; and might have islands,
or continents, that hitherto were not come to light. Wherefore we bent our course thither,
where we saw the appearance of land, all that night; and in the dawning of the next day,
we might plainly discern that it was a land; flat to our sight, and full of boscage;2
which made it show the more dark. And after an hour and a half's sailing, we entered into
a good haven, being the port of a fair city; not great indeed, but well built, and that
gave a pleasant view from the sea: and we thinking every minute long, till we were on
land, came close to the shore, and offered to land. But straightways we saw divers of the
people, with bastons3 in their hands (as it were) forbidding us to land; yet
without any cries of fierceness, but only as warning us off, by signs that they made.
Whereupon being not a little discomforted,4 we were advising with ourselves,
what we should do.
During which time, there made forth to us a small boat, with about eight persons in it;
whereof one of them had in his hand a tipstaff of a yellow cane, tipped at both ends with
blue, who came aboard our ship, without any show of distrust at all. And when he saw one
of our number, present himself somewhat before the rest, he drew forth a little scroll of
parchment (somewhat yellower than our parchment, and shining like the leaves of writing
tables, but otherwise soft and flexible,) and delivered it to our foremost man. In which
scroll were written in ancient Hebrew, and in ancient Greek, and in good Latin of the
school,5 and in Spanish, these words: Land ye not, none of you; and provide to
be gone, from this coast, within sixteen days, except you have further time given you.
Meanwhile, if you want fresh water or victuals, or help for your sick, or that your ship
needeth repairs, write down your wants, and you shall have that, which belongeth to mercy.
This scroll was signed with a stamp of cherubim's wings, not spread, but hanging
downwards; and by them a cross. This being delivered, the officer returned, and left only
a servant with us to receive our answer.
[Footnote 4: Discouraged.]
[Footnote 5: Academic, as opposed to popular, Latin.]
Consulting hereupon amongst ourselves, we were much perplexed. The denial of landing
and hasty warning us away troubled us much; on the other side, to find that the people had
languages, and were so full of humanity, did comfort us not a little. And above all, the
sign of the cross to that instrument was to us a great rejoicing, and as it were a certain
presage of good. Our answer was in the Spanish tongue; That for our ship, it was well; for
we had rather met with calms and contrary winds than any tempests. For our sick, they were
many, and in very ill case; so that if they were not permitted to land, they ran danger of
their lives. Our other wants we set down in particular; adding, That we had some little
store of merchandise, which if it pleased them to deal for, it might supply our wants,
without being chargeable unto them. We offered some reward in pistolets6 unto
the servant, and a piece of crimson velvet to be presented to the officer; but the servant
took them not, nor would scarce look upon them; and so left us, and went back in another
little boat, which was sent for him.
About three hours after we had dispatched our answer, there came towards us a person
(as it seemed) of place. He had on him a gown with wide sleeves, of a kind of water
chamolet,7 of an excellent azure colour, far more glossy than ours; his under
apparel was green; and so was his hat, being in the form of a turban, daintily made, and
not so huge as the Turkish turbans; and the locks of his hair came down below the brims of
it. A reverend man was he to behold. He came in a boat, gilt in some part of it, with four
persons more only in that boat; and was followed by another boat, wherein were some
twenty. When he was come within a flightshot8 of our ship, signs were made to
us, that we should send forth some to meet him upon the water; which we presently did in
our ship-boat, sending the principal man amongst us save one, and four of our number with
him.
[Footnote 6: Pistoles, Spanish gold coins.]
[Footnote 7: Camlet with a wavy surface.]
[Footnote 8: A flight was a light arrow.]
When we were come within six yards of their boat, they called to us to stay, and not to
approach farther; which we did. And thereupon the man, whom I before described, stood up,
and with a loud voice, in Spanish, asked, "Are ye Christians?" We answered,
"We were;" fearing the less, because of the cross we had seen in the
subscription. At which answer the said person lifted up his right hand towards Heaven, and
drew it softly to his mouth (which is the gesture they use, when they thank God;) and then
said: "If ye will swear (all of you) by the merits of the Saviour, that ye are no
pirates, nor have shed blood, lawfully, nor unlawfully within forty days past, you may
have licence to come on land." We said, "We were all ready to take that
oath." Whereupon one of those that were with him, being (as it seemed) a notary, made
an entry of this act. Which done, another of the attendants of the great person which was
with him in the same boat, after his Lord had spoken a little to him, said aloud: "My
Lord would have you know, that it is not of pride, or greatness, that he cometh not aboard
your ship; but for that in your answer you declare that you have many sick amongst you, he
was warned by the Conservator of Health of the city that he should keep a distance."
We bowed ourselves towards him, and answered, "We were his humble servants; and
accounted for great honour, and singular humanity towards us, that which was already done;
but hoped well, that the nature of the sickness of our men was not infectious." So he
returned; and a while after came the Notary to us aboard our ship; holding in his hand a
fruit of that country, like an orange, but of color between orange-tawney and scarlet;
which cast a most excellent odour. He used it (as it seemeth) for a preservative against
infection. He gave us our oath; "By the name of Jesus, and his merits:" and
after told us, that the next day, by six of the Clock, in the Morning, we should be sent
to, and brought to the Strangers' House, (so he called it,) where we should be
accommodated of things, both for our whole, and for our sick. So he left us; and when we
offered him some pistolets, he smiling said, "He must not be twice paid for one
labour:" meaning (as I take it) that he had salary sufficient of the State for his
service. For (as I after learned) they call an officer that taketh rewards, twice paid.
The next morning early, there came to us the same officer that came to us at first with
his cane, and told us, "He came to conduct us to the Strangers' House; and that he
had prevented9 the hour, because10 we might have the whole day
before us, for our business. For," he said, "if you will follow my advice, there
shall first go with me some few of you, and see the place, and how it may be made
convenient for you; and then you may send for your sick, and the rest of your number,
which ye will bring on land." We thanked him, and said, "That this care, which
he took of desolate strangers, God would reward." And so six of us went on land with
him: and when we were on land, he went before us, and turned to us, and said, "He was
but our servant, and our guide." He led us through three fair streets; and all the
way we went, there were gathered some people on both sides, standing in a row; but in so
civil a fashion, as if it had been, not to wonder at us, but to welcome us: and divers of
them, as we passed by them, put their arms a little abroad;11 which is their
gesture, when they did bid any welcome.
[Footnote 9: Come before.]
[Footnote 10: In order that.]
[Footnote 11: Stretched out.]
The Strangers' House is a fair and spacious house, built of brick, of somewhat a bluer
colour than our brick; and with handsome windows, some of glass; some of a kind of cambric
oiled. He brought us first into a fair parlour above stairs, and then asked us, "What
number of persons we were? And how many sick?" We answered, "We were in all,
(sick and whole,) one and fifty persons, whereof our sick were seventeen." He desired
us to have patience a little, and to stay till he came back to us; which was about an hour
after; and then he led us to see the chambers which were provided for us, being in number
nineteen: they having cast12 it (as it seemeth) that four of those chambers,
which were better than the rest, might receive four of the principal men of our company;
and lodge them alone by themselves; and the other fifteen chambers were to lodge us two
and two together. The chambers were handsome and cheerful chambers, and furnished civilly.13
Then he led us to a long gallery, like a dorture,14 where he showed us all
along the one side (for the other side was but wall and window), seventeen cells, very
neat ones, having partitions of cedar wood. Which gallery and cells, being in all forty,
(many more than we needed,) were instituted as an infirmary for sick persons. And he told
us withal, that as any of our sick waxed well, he might be removed from his cell, to a
chamber; for which purpose there were set forth ten spare chambers, besides the number we
spake of before. This done, he brought us back to the parlour, and lifting up his cane a
little, (as they do when they give any charge or command) said to us, "Ye are to
know, that the custom of the land requireth, that after this day and to-morrow, (which we
give you for removing of your people from your ship,) you are to keep within doors for
three days. But let it not trouble you, nor do not think yourselves restrained, but rather
left to your rest and ease. You shall want nothing, and there are six of our people
appointed to attend you, for any business you may have abroad." We gave him thanks,
with all affection and respect, and said, "God surely is manifested in this
land." We offered him also twenty pistolets; but he smiled, and only said;
"What? twice paid!" And so he left us.
[Footnote 12: Planned.]
[Footnote 13: Respectably.]
[Footnote 14: Dormitory.]
Soon after our dinner was served in; which was right good viands, both for bread and
meat; better than any collegiate diet, that I have known in Europe. We had also drink of
three sorts, all wholesome and good; wine of the grape; a drink of grain, such as is with
us our ale, but more clear: And a kind of cider made of a fruit of that country; a
wonderful pleasing and refreshing drink. Besides, there were brought in to us, great store
of those scarlet oranges, for our sick; which (they said) were an assured remedy for
sickness taken at sea. There was given us also, a box of small gray, or whitish pills,
which they wished our sick should take, one of the pills, every night before sleep; which
(they said) would hasten their recovery.
[Footnote 15: Dispositions.]
The next day, after that our trouble of carriage and removing of our men and goods out
of our ship, was somewhat settled and quiet, I thought good to call our company together;
and when they were assembled, said unto them; "My dear friends, let us know
ourselves, and how it standeth with us. We are men cast on land, as Jonas was, out of the
whale's belly, when we were as buried in the deep: and now we are on land, we are but
between death and life; for we are beyond, both the old world, and the new; and whether
ever we shall see Europe, God only knoweth. It is a kind of miracle hath brought us
hither: and it must be little less, that shall bring us hence. Therefore in regard of our
deliverance past, and our danger present, and to come, let us look up to God, and every
man reform his own ways. Besides we are come here amongst a Christian people, full of
piety and humanity: let us not bring that confusion of face upon ourselves, as to show our
vices, or unworthiness before them. Yet there is more. For they have by commandment,
(though in form of courtesy) cloistered us within these walls, for three days: who
knoweth, whether it be not, to take some taste of our manners and conditions?15 and if they find them bad, to banish us straightways; if good, to give us further time.
For these men that they have given us for attendance, may withal have an eye upon us.
Therefore for God's love, and as we love the weal of our souls and bodies, let us so
behave ourselves, as we may be at peace with God, and may find grace in the eyes of this
people." Our company with one voice thanked me for my good admonition, and promised
me to live soberly and civilly, and without giving any the least occasion of offence. So
we spent our three days joyfully, and without care, in expectation what would be done with
us, when they were expired. During which time, we had every hour joy of the amendment of
our sick; who thought themselves cast into some divine pool of healing; they mended so
kindly,16 and so fast.
The morrow after our three days were past, there came to us a new man, that we had not
seen before, clothed in blue as the former was, save that his turban was white, with a
small red cross on the top. He had also a tippet of fine linen. At his coming in, he did
bend to us a little, and put his arms abroad. We of our parts saluted him in a very lowly
and submissive manner; as looking that from him, we should receive sentence of life, or
death: he desired to speak with some few of us: whereupon six of us only staid, and the
rest avoided17 the room. He said, "I am by office governor of this House
of Strangers, and by vocation I am a Christian priest: and therefore am come to you to
offer you my service, both as strangers and chiefly as Christians. Some things I may tell
you, which I think you will not be unwilling to hear. The State hath given you license to
stay on land, for the space of six weeks; and let it not trouble you, if your occasions
ask further time, for the law in this point is not precise; and I do not doubt, but my
self shall be able, to obtain for you such further time, as may be convenient. Ye shall
also understand, that the Strangers' House is at this time rich, and much aforehand; for
it hath laid up revenue these thirty-seven years; for so long it is since any stranger
arrived in this part: and therefore take ye no care; the State will defray18 you all the time you stay; neither shall you stay one day the less for that. As for any
merchandise ye have brought, ye shall be well used, and have your return, either in
merchandise, or in gold and silver: for to us it is all one. And if you have any other
request to make, hide it not. For ye shall find we will not make your countenance to fall
by the answer ye shall receive. Only this I must tell you, that none of you must go above
a karan," (that is with them a mile and an half) "from the walls of the city,
without especial leave."
[Footnote 16: Naturally.]
[Footnote 17: Left.]
[Footnote 18: Pay expenses.]
We answered, after we had looked awhile one upon another, admiring19 this
gracious and parent-like usage; "That we could not tell what to say: for we wanted
words to express our thanks; and his noble free offers left us nothing to ask. It seemed
to us, that we had before us a picture of our salvation in Heaven; for we that were a
while since in the jaws of death, were now brought into a place, where we found nothing
but consolations. For the commandment laid upon us, we would not fail to obey it, though
it was impossible but our hearts should be enflamed to tread further upon this happy and
holy ground." We added; "That our tongues should first cleave to the roofs of
our mouths, ere we should forget, either his reverend person, or this whole nation, in our
prayers." We also most humbly besought him, to accept of us as his true servants, by
as just a right as ever men on earth were bounden; laying and presenting, both our
persons, and all we had, at his feet. He said; "He was a priest, and looked for a
priest's reward; which was our brotherly love, and the good of our souls and bodies."
So he went from us, not without tears of tenderness in his eyes; and left us also confused
with joy and kindness, saying amongst ourselves; "That we were come into a land of
angels, which did appear to us daily, and present us with comforts, which we thought not
of, much less expected."
The next day about ten of the clock, the Governor came to us again, and after
salutations, said familiarly; "That he was come to visit us;" and called for a
chair, and sat him down: and we, being some ten of us, (the rest were of the meaner sort,
or else gone abroad,) sat down with him. And when we were set, he began thus: "We of
this island of Bensalem," (for so they call it in their language,) "have this;
that by means of our solitary situation; and of the laws of secrecy, which we have for our
travellers, and our rare admission of strangers; we know well most part of the habitable
world, and are ourselves unknown. Therefore because he that knoweth least is fittest to
ask questions, it is more reason, for the entertainment of the time, that ye ask me
questions, than that I ask you."
[Footnote 19: Wondering at.]
We answered; "That we humbly thanked him that he would give us leave so to do: and
that we conceived by the taste we had already, that there was no worldly thing on earth,
more worthy to be known than the state of that happy land. But above all," (we said,)
"since that we were met from the several ends of the world, and hoped assuredly that
we should meet one day in the kingdom of Heaven, (for that we were both parts Christians,)
we desired to know, (in respect that land was so remote, and so divided by vast and
unknown seas, from the land where our Saviour walked on earth,) who was the apostle of
that nation, and how it was converted to the faith?" It appeared in his face that he
took great contentment in this our question: he said; "Ye knit my heart to you, by
asking this question in the first place; for it sheweth that you first seek the kingdom of
heaven; and I shall gladly, and briefly, satisfy your demand.
"About twenty years after the ascension of our Saviour, it came to pass, that
there was seen by the people of Renfusa, (a city upon the eastern coast of our island,)
within night, (the night was cloudy, and calm,) as it might be some mile into the sea, a
great pillar of light; not sharp, but in form of a column, or cylinder, rising from the
sea a great way up towards heaven; and on the top of it was seen a large cross of light,
more bright and resplendent than the body of the pillar. Upon which so strange a
spectacle, the people of the city gathered apace together upon the sands, to wonder; and
so after put themselves into a number of small boats, to go nearer to this marvellous
sight. But when the boats were come within (about) sixty yards of the pillar, they found
themselves all bound, and could go no further; yet so as they might move to go about, but
might not approach nearer: so as the boats stood all as in a theatre, beholding this light
as an heavenly sign. It so fell out, that there was in one of the boats one of the wise
men, of the society of Salomon's House; which house, or college (my good brethren) is the
very eye of this kingdom; who having awhile attentively and devoutly viewed and
contemplated this pillar and cross, fell down upon his face; and then raised himself upon
his knees, and lifting up his hands to heaven, made his prayers in this manner.
"'Lord God of heaven and earth, thou hast vouchsafed of thy grace to those of our
order, to know thy works of Creation, and the secrets of them: and to discern (as far as
appertaineth to the generations of men) between divine miracles, works of nature, works of
art, and impostures and illusions of all sorts. I do here acknowledge and testify before
this people, that the thing which we now see before our eyes is thy Finger and a true
Miracle. And forasmuch as we learn in our books that thou never workest miracles, but to a
divine and excellent end, (for the laws of nature are thine own laws, and thou exceedest
them not but upon great cause,) we most humbly beseech thee to prosper this great sign,
and to give us the interpretation and use of it in mercy; which thou dost in some part
secretly promise by sending it unto us.'
"When he had made his prayer, he presently found the boat he was in, moveable and
unbound; whereas all the rest remained still fast; and taking that for an assurance of
leave to approach, he caused the boat to be softly and with silence rowed towards the
pillar. But ere he came near it, the pillar and cross of light brake up, and cast itself
abroad, as it were, into a firmament of many stars; which also vanished soon after, and
there was nothing left to be seen, but a small ark, or chest of cedar, dry, and not wet at
all with water, though it swam. And in the fore-end of it, which was towards him, grew a
small green branch of palm; and when the wise man had taken it, with all reverence, into
his boat, it opened of itself, and there were found in it a Book and a Letter; both
written in fine parchment, and wrapped in sindons20 of linen. The Book
contained all the canonical books of the Old and New Testament, according as you have
them; (for we know well what the churches with you receive); and the Apocalypse itself,
and some other books of the New Testament, which were not at that time written, were
nevertheless in the Book. And for the Letter, it was in these words:
"'I Bartholomew, a servant of the Highest, and Apostle of Jesus Christ, was warned
by an angel that appeareth to me, in a vision of glory, that I should commit this ark to
the floods of the sea. Therefore I do testify and declare unto that people where God shall
ordain this ark to come to land, that in the same day is come unto them salvation and
peace and good-will, from the Father, and from the Lord Jesus.'
[Footnote 20: Pieces.]
[Footnote 21: Similar.]
"There was also in both these writings, as well the Book, as the Letter, wrought a
great miracle, conform21 to that of the Apostles, in the original Gift of
Tongues. For there being at that time in this land Hebrews, Persians, and Indians, besides
the natives, every one read upon the Book, and Letter, as if they had been written in his
own language. And thus was this land saved from infidelity (as the remainder of the old
world was from water) by an ark, through the apostolical and miraculous evangelism of
Saint Bartholomew." And here he paused, and a messenger came, and called him from us.
So this was all that passed in that conference.
The next day, the same governor came again to us, immediately after dinner, and excused
himself, saying: "That the day before he was called from us, somewhat abruptly, but
now he would make us amends, and spend time with us if we held his company and conference
agreeable." We answered, "That we held it so agreeable and pleasing to us, as we
forgot both dangers past and fears to come, for the time we hear him speak; and that we
thought an hour spent with him, was worth years of our former life." He bowed himself
a little to us, and after we were set again, he said; "Well, the questions are on
your part."
One of our number said, after a little pause; that there was a matter, we were no less
desirous to know, than fearful to ask, lest we might presume too far. But encouraged by
his rare humanity towards us, (that could scarce think ourselves strangers, being his
vowed and professed servants,) we would take the hardiness to propound it: humbly
beseeching him, if he thought it not fit to be answered, that he would pardon it, though
he rejected it. We said; "We well observed those his words, which he formerly spake,
that this happy island, where we now stood, was known to few, and yet knew most of the
nations of the world; which we found to be true, considering they had the languages of
Europe, and knew much of our state and business; and yet we in Europe, (notwithstanding
all the remote discoveries and navigations of this last age), never heard of the least
inkling or glimpse of this island. This we found wonderful strange; for that all nations
have inter-knowledge one of another, either by voyage into foreign parts, or by strangers
that come to them: and though the traveller into a foreign country, doth commonly know
more by the eye, than he that stayeth at home can by relation of the traveller; yet both
ways suffice to make a mutual knowledge, in some degree, on both parts. But for this
island, we never heard tell of any ship of theirs that had been seen to arrive upon any
shore of Europe; nor of either the East or West Indies; nor yet of any ship of any other
part of the world, that had made return from them. And yet the marvel rested not in this.
For the situation of it (as his lordship said) in the secret conclave23 of such
a vast sea might cause it. But then, that they should have knowledge of the languages,
books, affairs, of those that lie such a distance from them, it was a thing we could not
tell what to make of; for that it seemed to us a condition24 and propriety25 of divine powers and beings, to be hidden and unseen to others, and yet to have others
open and as in a light to them."
At this speech the Governor gave a gracious smile, and said; "That we did well to
ask pardon for this question we now asked: for that it imported, as if we thought this
land, a land of magicians, that sent forth spirits of the air into all parts, to bring
them news and intelligence of other countries." It was answered by us all, in all
possible humbleness, but yet with a countenance taking knowledge, that we knew that he
spake it but merrily, "That we were apt enough to think there was somewhat
supernatural in this island; but yet rather as angelical than magical. But to let his
lordship know truly what it was that made us tender and doubtful to ask this question, it
was not any such conceit,26 but because we remembered, he had given a touch27 in his former speech, that this land had laws of secrecy touching strangers." To this
he said; "You remember it aright and therefore in that I shall say to you, I must
reserve some particulars, which it is not lawful for me to reveal; but there will be
enough left, to give you satisfaction.
[Footnote 23: Private room]
[Footnote 24: Property.]
[Footnote 25: Quality.]
[Footnote 26: Idea.]
[Footnote 27: Hint.]
"You shall understand (that which perhaps you will scarce think credible) that
about three thousand years ago, or somewhat more, the navigation of the world, (especially
for remote voyages,) was greater than at this day. Do not think with yourselves, that I
know not how much it is increased with you, within these six-score years: I know it well:
and yet I say greater then than now; whether it was, that the example of the ark, that
saved the remnant of men from the universal deluge, gave men confidence to adventure upon
the waters; or what it was; but such is the truth. The Phoenicians, and especially the
Tyrians, had great fleets. So had the Carthaginians their colony, which is yet further
west. Toward the east the shipping of Egypt and of Palestina was likewise great. China
also, and the great Atlantis, (that you call America,) which have now but junks and
canoes, abounded then in tall ships. This island, (as appeareth by faithful registers of
those times,) had then fifteen hundred strong ships, of great content. Of all this, there
is with you sparing memory, or none; but we have large knowledge thereof.
"At that time, this land was known and frequented by the ships and vessels of all
the nations before named. And (as it cometh to pass) they had many times men of other
countries, that were no sailors, that came with them; as Persians, Chaldeans, Arabians; so
as almost all nations of might and fame resorted hither; of whom we have some stirps,28
and little tribes with us at this day. And for our own ships, they went sundry voyages, as
well to your straits, which you call the Pillars of Hercules, as to other parts in
Atlantic and Mediterrane Seas; as to Paguin, (which is the same with Cambaline,29)
and Quinzy, upon the Oriental Seas, as far as to the borders of the East Tartary.
[Footnote 28: Families.]
[Footnote 29: Cambalu, Pekin.]
[Footnote 30: Plato, in the "Critias,"]
[Footnote 31: Settled.]
[Footnote 32: Ladder to heaven.]
"At the same time, and an age after, or more, the inhabitants of the great
Atlantis did flourish. For though the narration and description, which is made by a great
man30 with you; that the descendants of Neptune planted31 there; and
of the magnificent temple, palace, city, and hill; and the manifold streams of goodly
navigable rivers, (which as so many chains environed the same site and temple); and the
several degrees of ascent, whereby men did climb up to the same, as if it had been a scala
coeli,32 be all poetical and fabulous: yet so much is true, that the said
country of Atlantis, as well that of Peru, then called Coya, as that of Mexico, then named
Tyrambel, were mighty and proud kingdoms in arms, shipping and riches: so mighty, as at
one time (or at least within the space of ten years) they both made two great expeditions;
they of Tyrambel through the Atlantic to the Mediterrane Sea; and they of Coya through the
South Sea upon this our island: and for the former of these, which was into Europe, the
same author amongst you (as it seemeth) had some relation from the Egyptian priest whom he
cited. For assuredly such a thing there was. But whether it were the ancient Athenians
that had the glory of the repulse and resistance of those forces, I can say nothing: but
certain it is, there never came back either ship or man from that voyage. Neither had the
other voyage of those of Coya upon us had better fortune, if they had not met with enemies
of greater clemency. For the king of this island, (by name Altabin,) a wise man and a
great warrior, knowing well both his own strength and that of his enemies, handled the
matter so, as he cut off their land-forces from their ships; and entoiled33
both their navy and their camp with a greater power than theirs, both by sea and land: and
compelled them to render themselves without striking stroke: and after they were at his
mercy, contenting himself only with their oath that they should no more bear arms against
him, dismissed them all in safety.
"But the divine revenge overtook not long after those proud enterprises. For
within less than the space of one hundred years, the great Atlantis was utterly lost and
destroyed: not by a great earthquake, as your man saith; (for that whole tract is little
subject to earthquakes;) but by a particular34 deluge or inundation; those
countries having, at this day, far greater rivers and far higher mountains to pour down
waters, than any part of the old world. But it is true that the same inundation was not
deep; not past forty foot, in most places, from the ground; so that although it destroyed
man and beast generally, yet some few wild inhabitants of the wood escaped. Birds also
were saved by flying to the high trees and woods. For as for men, although they had
buildings in many places, higher than the depth of the water, yet that inundation, though
it were shallow, had a long continuance; whereby they of the vale that were not drowned,
perished for want of food and other things necessary.
[Footnote 33: Ensnared.]
[Footnote 34: Partial.]
"So as marvel you not at the thin population of America, nor at the rudeness and
ignorance of the people; for you must account your inhabitants of America as a young
people; younger a thousand years, at the least than the rest of the world: for that there
was so much time between the universal flood and their particular inundation. For the poor
remnant of human seed, which remained in their mountains, peopled the country again
slowly, by little and little; and being simple and savage people, (not like Noah and his
sons, which was the chief family of the earth,) they were not able to leave letters, arts,
and civility35 to their posterity; and having likewise in their mountainous
habitations been used (in respect of the extreme cold of those regions) to clothe
themselves with the skins of tigers, bears, and great hairy goats, that they have in those
parts; when after they came down into the valley, and found the intolerable heats which
are there, and knew no means of lighter apparel, they were forced to begin the custom of
going naked, which continueth at this day. Only they take great pride and delight in the
feathers of birds; and this also they took from those their ancestors of the mountains who
were invited unto it by the infinite flights of birds that came up to the high grounds,
while the waters stood below. So you see, by this main accident of time, we lost our
traffic with the Americans, with whom of all others, in regard they lay nearest to us, we
had most commerce.
"As for the other parts of the world, it is most manifest that in the ages
following (whether it were in respect of wars, or by a natural revolution of time,)
navigation did every where greatly decay; and specially far voyages (the rather by the use
of galleys, and such vessels as could hardly brook the ocean,) were altogether left and
omitted. So then, that part of intercourse which could be from other nations to sail to
us, you see how it hath long since ceased; except it were by some rare accident, as this
of yours. But now of the cessation of that other part of intercourse, which might be by
our sailing to other nations, I must yield you some other cause. For I cannot say (if I
shall say truly,) but our shipping, for number, strength, mariners, pilots, and all things
that appertain to navigation, is as great as ever; and therefore why we should sit at
home, I shall now give you an account by itself: and it will draw nearer to give you
satisfaction to your principal question.
[Footnote 35: Civilization.]
"There reigned in this land, about nineteen hundred years ago, a king, whose
memory of all others we most adore; not superstitiously, but as a divine instrument,
though a mortal man; his name was Solamona: and we esteem him as the lawgiver of our
nation. This king had a large heart, inscrutable for good; and was wholly bent to make his
kingdom and people happy. He therefore, taking into consideration how sufficient and
substantive36 this land was to maintain itself without any aid (at all) of the
foreigner; being five thousand six hundred miles in circuit, and of rare fertility of soil
in the greatest part thereof; and finding also the shipping of this country might be
plentifully set on work, both by fishing and by transportations from port to port, and
likewise by sailing unto some small islands that are not far from us, and are under the
crown and laws of this state; and recalling into his memory the happy and flourishing
estate wherein this land then was; so as it might be a thousand ways altered to the worse,
but scarce any one way to the better; though nothing wanted to his noble and heroical
intentions, but only (as far as human foresight might reach) to give perpetuity to that
which was in his time so happily established. Therefore amongst his other fundamental laws
of this kingdom, he did ordain the interdicts and prohibitions which we have touching
entrance of strangers; which at that time (though it was after the calamity of America)
was frequent; doubting37 novelties, and commixture of manners. It is true, the
like law against the admission of strangers without licence is an ancient law in the
kingdom of China, and yet continued in use. But there it is a poor thing; and hath made
them a curious, ignorant, fearful, foolish nation. But our lawgiver made his law of
another temper. For first, he hath preserved all points of humanity, in taking order and
making provision for the relief of strangers distressed; whereof you have tasted."
[Footnote 36: Self-sufficing.]
[Footnote 37: Fearing.]
"That king also, still desiring to join humanity and policy together; and thinking
it against humanity, to detain strangers here against their wills, and against policy that
they should return and discover their knowledge of this estate, he took this course: he
did ordain that of the strangers that should be permitted to land, as many (at all times)
might depart as would; but as many as would stay should have very good conditions and
means to live from the state. Wherein he saw so far, that now in so many ages since the
prohibition, we have memory not of one ship that ever returned, and but of thirteen
persons only, at several times, that chose to return in our bottoms. What those few that
returned may have reported abroad I know not. But you must think, whatsoever they have
said could be taken where they came but for a dream. Now for our travelling from hence
into parts abroad, our Lawgiver thought fit altogether to restrain it. So is it not in
China. For the Chinese sail where they will or can; which sheweth that their law of
keeping out strangers is a law of pusillanimity and fear. But this restraint of ours hath
one only exception, which is admirable; preserving the good which cometh by communicating
with strangers, and avoiding the hurt; and I will now open it to you. And here I shall
seem a little to digress, but you will by and by find it pertinent.
[Footnote 38: Named after.]
[Footnote 39: Agree.]
"Ye shall understand (my dear friends) that amongst the excellent acts of that
king, one above all hath the pre-eminence. It was the erection and institution of an Order
or Society, which we call Salomon's House; the noblest foundation (as we think) that ever
was upon the earth; and the lanthorn of this kingdom. It is dedicated to the study of the
works and creatures of God. Some think it beareth the founder's name a little corrupted,
as if it should be Solamona's House. But the records write it as it is spoken. So as I
take it to be denominate of38 the king of the Hebrews, which is famous with
you, and no stranger to us. For we have some parts of his works, which with you are lost;
namely, that natural history, which he wrote, of all plants, from the cedar of Libanus to
the moss that groweth out of the wall, and of all things that have life and motion. This
maketh me think that our king, finding himself to symbolize39 in many things
with that king of the Hebrews (which lived many years before him), honored him with the
title of this foundation. And I am rather induced to be of this opinion, for that I find
in ancient records this Order or Society is sometimes called Salomon's House, and
sometimes the College of the Six Days Works; whereby I am satisfied that our excellent
king had learned from the Hebrews that God had created the world and all that therein is
within six days: and therefore he instituting that House for the finding out of the true
nature of all things, (whereby God might have the more glory in the workmanship of them,
and men the more fruit in the use of them), did give it also that second name.
"But now to come to our present purpose. When the king had forbidden to all his
people navigation into any part that was not under his crown, he made nevertheless this
ordinance; that every twelve years there should be set forth, out of this kingdom two
ships, appointed to several voyages; That in either of these ships there should be a
mission of three of the Fellows or Brethren of Salomon's House; whose errand was only to
give us knowledge of the affairs and state of those countries to which they were designed,
and especially of the sciences, arts, manufactures, and inventions of all the world; and
withal to bring unto us books, instruments, and patterns in every kind: That the ships,
after they had landed the brethren, should return; and that the brethren should stay
abroad till the new mission. These ships are not otherwise fraught, than with store of
victuals, and good quantity of treasure to remain with the brethren, for the buying of
such things and rewarding of such persons as they should think fit. Now for me to tell you
how the vulgar sort of mariners are contained40 from being discovered at land;
and how they that must be put on shore for any time, color themselves under the names of
other nations; and to what places these voyages have been designed; and what places of
rendezvous are appointed for the new missions; and the like circumstances of the
practique; I may not do it; neither is it much to your desire. But thus you see we
maintain a trade not for gold, silver, or jewels; nor for silks; nor for spices; nor any
other commodity of matter; but only for God's first creature, which was Light: to have
light (I say) of the growth of41 all parts of the world."
[Footnote 40: Prevented.]
[Footnote 41: Produced in.]
And when he had said this, he was silent; and so were we all. For indeed we were all
astonished to hear so strange things so probably told. And he, perceiving that we were
willing to say somewhat but had it not ready in great courtesy took us off, and descended
to ask us questions of our voyage and fortunes and in the end concluded, that we might do
well to think with ourselves what time of stay we would demand of the state; and bade us
not to scant ourselves; for he would procure such time as we desired. Whereupon we all
rose up, and presented ourselves42 to kiss the skirt of his tippet; but he
would not suffer us; and so took his leave. But when it came once amongst our people that
the state used to offer conditions to strangers that would stay, we had work enough to get
any of our men to look to our ship; and to keep them from going presently to the governor
to crave conditions. But with much ado we refrained them, till we might agree what course
to take.
We took ourselves now for free men, seeing there was no danger of our utter perdition;
and lived most joyfully, going abroad and seeing what was to be seen in the city and
places adjacent within our tedder; and obtaining acquaintance with many of the city, not
of the meanest quality; at whose hands we found such humanity, and such a freedom and
desire to take strangers as it were into their bosom, as was enough to make us forget all
that was dear to us in our own countries: and continually we met with many things right
worthy of observation and relation: as indeed, if there be a mirror in the world worthy to
hold men's eyes, it is that country.
[Footnote 42: Offered.]
[Footnote 43: Attended.]
The New Atlantis: Part 2
One day there were two of our company bidden to a Feast of the Family, as they call it.
A most natural, pious, and reverend custom it is, shewing that nation to be compounded of
all goodness. This is the manner if it. It is granted to any man that shall live to see
thirty persons descended of his body alive together, and all above three years old, to
make this feast which is done at the cost of the state. The Father of the Family, whom
they call the Tirsan, two days before the feast, taketh to him three of such friends as he
liketh to choose; and is assisted43 also by the governor of the city or place
where the feast is celebrated; and all the persons of the family, of both sexes, are
summoned to attend him. These two days the Tirsan sitteth in consultation concerning the
good estate of the family. There, if there be any discord or suits between any of the
family, they are compounded and appeased. where, if any of the family be distressed or
decayed, order is taken for their relief and competent means to live. There, if any be
subject to vice, or take ill courses, they are reproved and censured. So likewise
direction is given touching marriages, and the courses of life, which any of them should
take, with divers other the like orders and advices. The governor assisteth, to the end to
put in execution by his public authority the decrees and orders of the Tirsan, if they
should be disobeyed; though that seldom needeth; such reverence and obedience they give to
the order of nature. The Tirsan doth also then ever choose one man from among his sons, to
live in house with him; who is called ever after the Son of the Vine. The reason will
hereafter appear.
On the feast day, the father or Tirsan cometh forth after divine service into a large
room where the feast is celebrated; which room hath an half-pace44 at the upper
end. Against the wall, in the middle of the half-pace, is a chair placed for him, with a
table and carpet before it. Over the chair is a state,45 made round or oval,
and it is of ivy; an ivy somewhat whiter than ours, like the leaf of a silver asp,46
but more shining; for it is green all winter. And the state is curiously wrought with
silver and silk of divers colors, broiding47 or binding in the ivy; and is ever
of the work of some of the daughters of the family; and veiled over at the top with a fine
net of silk and silver. But the substance of it is true ivy; whereof, after it is taken
down, the friends of the family are desirous to have some leaf or sprig to keep.
[Footnote 44: Dais, platform.]
[Footnote 45: Canopy.]
[Footnote 46: Aspen.]
[Footnote 47: Interlacing.]
[Footnote 48: Curtain.]
[Footnote 49: Private.]
[Footnote 50: Side.]
The Tirsan cometh forth with all his generation or linage, the males before him, and
the females following him; and if there be a mother from whose body the whole linage is
descended, there is a traverse48 placed in a loft above on the right hand of
the chair, with a privy49 door, and a carved window of glass, leaded with gold
and blue; where she sitteth, but is not seen. When the Tirsan is come forth, he sitteth
down in the chair; and all the linage place themselves against the wall, both at his back
and upon the return50 of the half-pace, in order of their years without
difference of sex; and stand upon their feet. When he is set; the room being always full
of company, but well kept and without disorder; after some pause, there cometh in from the
lower end of the room, a taratan (which is as much as an herald) and on either side of him
two young lads; whereof one carrieth a scroll of their shining yellow parchment; and the
other a cluster of grapes of gold, with a long foot or stalk. The herald and children are
clothed with mantles of seawater green satin; but the herald's mantle is streamed51
with gold, and hath a train.
Then the herald with three curtesies, or rather inclinations, cometh up as far as the
half-pace; and there first taketh into his hand the scroll. This scroll is the king's
charter, containing gifts of revenew, and many privileges, exemptions, and points of
honour, granted to the Father of the Family; and is ever styled and directed, To such an
one our well beloved friend and creditor: which is a title proper only to this case. For
they say the king is debtor to no man, but for propagation of his subjects. The seal set
to the king's charter is the king's image, imbossed or moulded in gold; and though such
charters be expedited52 of course, and as of right, yet they are varied by
discretion, according to the number and dignity of the family. This charter the herald
readeth aloud; and while it is read, the father or Tirsan standeth up supported by two of
his sons, such as he chooseth. Then the herald mounteth the half-pace and delivereth the
charter into his hand: and with that there is an acclamation by all that are present in
their language, which is thus much: Happy are the people of Bensalem.
Then the herald taketh into his hand from the other child the cluster of grapes, which
is of gold, both the stalk and the grapes. But the grapes are daintily enamelled; and if
the males of the family be the greater number, the grapes are enamelled purple, with a
little sun set on the top; if the females, then they are enamelled into a greenish yellow,
with a crescent on the top. The grapes are in number as many as there are descendants of
the family. This golden cluster the herald delivereth also to the Tirsan; who presently
delivereth it over to that son that he had formerly chosen to be in house with him: who
beareth it before his father as an ensign of honour when he goeth in public, ever after;
and is thereupon called the Son of the Vine.
[Footnote 51: Watered.]
[Footnote 52: Issued.]
After the ceremony endeth the father or Tirsan retireth; and after some time cometh
forth again to dinner, where he sitteth alone under the state, as before; and none of his
descendants sit with him, of what degree or dignity soever, except he hap to be of
Salomon's House. He is served only by his own children, such as are male; who perform unto
him all service of the table upon the knee; and the women only stand about him, leaning
against the wall. The room below the half-pace hath tables on the sides for the guests
that are bidden; who are served with great and comely order; and towards the end of dinner
(which in the greatest feasts with them lasteth never above an hour and an half) there is
an hymn sung, varied according to the invention of him that composeth it (for they have
excellent posy) but the subject of it is (always) the praises of Adam and Noah and
Abraham; whereof the former two peopled the world, and the last was the Father of the
Faithful: concluding ever with a thanksgiving for the nativity of our Saviour, in whose
birth the births of all are only blessed.
[Footnote 53: Shape.]
Dinner being done, the Tirsan retireth again; and having withdrawn himself alone into a
place, where he makes some private prayers, he cometh forth the third time, to give the
blessing with all his descendants, who stand about him as at the first. Then he calleth
them forth by one and by one, by name, as he pleaseth, though seldom the order of age be
inverted. The person that is called (the table being before removed) kneeleth down before
the chair, and the father layeth his hand upon his head, or her head, and giveth the
blessing in these words: Son of Bensalem, (or daughter of Bensalem,) thy father saith it:
the man by whom thou hast breath and life speaketh the word: the blessing of the
everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, and the Holy Dove, be upon thee, and make the
days of thy pilgrimage good and many. This he saith to every of them; and that done, if
there be any of his sons of eminent merit and virtue, (so they be not above two,) he
calleth for them again; and saith, laying his arm over their shoulders, they standing;
Sons, it is well ye are born, give God the praise, and persevere to the end. And withall
delivereth to either of them a jewel, made in the figure53 of an ear of wheat,
which they ever after wear in the front of their turban or hat. This done, they fall to
music and dances, and other recreations, after their manner, for the rest of the day. This
is the full order of that feast.
By that time six or seven days were spent, I was fallen into straight acquaintance with
a merchant of that city, whose name was Joabin. He was a Jew and circumcised: for they
have some few stirps54 of Jews yet remaining among them, whom they leave to
their own religion. Which they may the better do, because they are of a far differing
disposition from the Jews in other parts. For whereas they hate the name of Christ; and
have a secret inbred rancour against the people among whom they live: these (contrariwise)
give unto our Saviour many high attributes, and love the nation of Bensalem extremely.
Surely this man of whom I speak would ever acknowledge that Christ was born of a virgin
and that he was more than a man; and he would tell how God made him ruler of the seraphims
which guard his throne; and they call him also the Milken Way, and the Eliah of the
Messiah; and many other high names; which though they be inferior to his divine majesty,
yet they are far from the language of other Jews.
And for the country of Bensalem, this man would make no end of commending it; being
desirous, by tradition among the Jews there, to have it believed that the people thereof
were of the generations of Abraham, by another son, whom they call Nachoran; and that
Moses by a secret Cabala ordained the Laws of Bensalem which they now use; and that when
the Messiah should come, and sit in his throne at Hierusalem, the king of Bensalem should
sit at his feet, whereas other kings should keep a great distance. But yet setting aside
these Jewish dreams, the man was a wise man, and learned, and of great policy, and
excellently seen in the laws and customs of that nation.
[Footnote 54: Families, stocks.]
Amongst other discourses, one day I told him I was much affected with the relation I
had, from some of the company, of their custom, in holding the Feast of the Family; for
that (methought) I had never heard of a solemnity wherein nature did so much preside. And
because propagation of families proceedeth from the nuptial copulation, I desired to know
of him what laws and customs they had concerning marriage; and whether they kept marriage
well and whether they were tied to one wife; for that where population is so much
affected,55 and such as with them it seemed to be, there is commonly permission
of plurality of wives.
[Footnote 55: Desired.]
To this he said, "You have reason for to commend that excellent institution of the
Feast of the Family. And indeed we have experience that those families that are partakers
of the blessing of that feast do flourish and prosper ever after in an extraordinary
manner. But hear me now, and I will tell you what I know. You shall understand that there
is not under the heavens so chaste a nation as this of Bensalem; nor so free from all
pollution or foulness. It is the virgin of the world. I remember I have read in one of
your European books, of an holy hermit amongst you that desired to see the Spirit of
Fornication; and there appeared to him a little foul ugly Aethiop. But if he had desired
to see the Spirit of Chastity of Bensalem, it would have appeared to him in the likeness
of a fair beautiful Cherubin. For there is nothing amongst mortal men more fair and
admirable, than the chaste minds of this people. Know therefore, that with them there are
no stews, no dissolute houses, no courtesans, nor anything of that kind. Nay they wonder
(with detestation) at you in Europe, which permit such things. They say ye have put
marriage out of office: for marriage is ordained a remedy for unlawful concupiscence; and
natural concupiscence seemeth as a spur to marriage. But when men have at hand a remedy
more agreeable to their corrupt will, marriage is almost expulsed. And therefore there are
with you seen infinite men that marry not, but chuse rather a libertine and impure single
life, than to be yoked in marriage; and many that do marry, marry late, when the prime and
strength of their years is past. And when they do marry, what is marriage to them but a
very bargain; wherein is sought alliance, or portion, or reputation, with some desire
(almost indifferent) of issue; and not the faithful nuptial union of man and wife, that
was first instituted. Neither is it possible that those that have cast away so basely so
much of their strength, should greatly esteem children, (being of the same matter,) as
chaste men do. So likewise during marriage, is the case much amended, as it ought to be if
those things were tolerated only for necessity? No, but they remain still as a very
affront to marriage. The haunting of those dissolute places, or resort to courtesans, are
no more punished in married men than in bachelors. And the depraved custom of change, and
the delight in meretricious embracements, (where sin is turned into art,) maketh marriage
a dull thing, and a kind of imposition or tax. They hear you defend these things, as done
to avoid greater evils; as advoutries,56 deflowering of virgins, unnatural
lust, and the like. But they say this is a preposterous wisdom; and they call it Lot's
offer, who to save his guests from abusing, offered his daughters: nay they say farther
that there is little gained in this; for that the same vices and appetites do still remain
and abound; unlawful lust being like a furnace, that if you stop the flames altogether, it
will quench; but if you give it any vent, it will rage. As for masculine love, they have
no touch of it; and yet there are not so faithful and inviolate friendships in the world
again as are there; and to speak generally, (as I said before,) I have not read of any
such chastity, in any people as theirs. And their usual saying is, That whosoever is
unchaste cannot reverence himself; and they say, That the reverence of a man's self, is,
next religion, the chiefest bridle of all vices."
And when he had said this, the good Jew paused a little; whereupon I, far more willing
to hear him speak on than to speak myself, yet thinking it decent that upon his pause of
speech I should not be altogether silent, said only this; "That I would say to him,
as the widow of Sarepta said to Elias; that he was come to bring to memory our sins; and
that I confess the righteousness of Bensalem was greater than the righteousness of
Europe." At which speech he bowed his head, and went on in this manner:
[Footnote 56: Adulteries.]
[Footnote 57: Penalize.]
[Footnote 58: More's Utopia.]
"They have also many wise and excellent laws touching marriage. They allow no
polygamy. They have ordained that none do intermarry or contract, until a month be past
from their first interview. Marriage without consent of parents they do not make void, but
they mulct57 it in the inheritors: for the children of such marriages are not
admitted to inherit above a third part of their parents' inheritance. I have read in a
book of one of your men,58 of a Feigned Commonwealth, where the married couple
are permitted, before they contract, to see one another naked. This they dislike; for they
think it a scorn to give a refusal after so familiar knowledge: but because of many hidden
defects in men and women's bodies, they have a more civil way; for they have near every
town a couple of pools, (which they call Adam and Eve's pools,) where it is permitted to
one of the friends of the men, and another of the friends of the woman, to see them
severally bathe naked."
And as we were thus in conference, there came one that seemed to be a messenger, in a
rich huke,59 that spake with the Jew: whereupon he turned to me and said;
"You will pardon me, for I am commanded away in haste." The next morning he came
to me again, joyful as it seemed, and said; "There is word come to the Governor of
the city, that one of the Fathers of Salomon's House will be here this day seven-night: we
have seen none of them this dozen years. His coming is in state; but the cause of his
coming is secret. I will provide you and your fellows of a good standing to see his
entry." I thanked him, and told him, I was most glad of the news.
[Footnote 59: A cape with a hood.]
[Footnote 60: Of elaborate design.]
[Footnote 61: A cap with a round crown and flaps.]
The day being come, he made his entry. He was a man of middle stature and age, comely
of person, and had an aspect as if he pitied men. He was clothed in a robe of fine black
cloth, with wide sleeves and a cape. His under garment was of excellent white linen down
to the foot, girt with a girdle of the same; and a sindon or tippet of the same about his
neck. He had gloves, that were curious,60 and set with stone; and shoes of
peach-coloured velvet. His neck was bare to the shoulders. His hat was like a helmet, or
Spanish montera;61 and his locks curled below it decently: they were of colour
brown. His beard was cut round, and of the same colour with his hair, somewhat lighter. He
was carried in a rich chariot, without wheels, litter-wise; with two horses at either end,
richly trapped in blue velvet embroidered; and two footmen on each side in the like
attire. The chariot was all of cedar, gilt, and adorned with crystal; save that the
fore-end had panels of sapphires, set in borders of gold; and the hinder-end the like of
emeralds of the Peru colour. There was also a sun of gold, radiant, upon the top, in the
midst; and on the top before, a small cherub of gold, with wings displayed.62
The chariot was covered with cloth of gold tissued upon blue. He had before him fifty
attendants, young men all, in white satin loose coats to the mid leg; and stockings of
white silk; and shoes of blue velvet; and hats of blue velvet; with fine plumes of diverse
colours, set round like hat-bands. Next before the chariot, went two men, bare-headed, in
linen garments down the foot, girt, and shoes of blue velvet; who carried, the one a
crosier, the other a pastoral staff like a sheep-hook; neither of them of metal, but the
crosier of balm-wood,63 the pastoral staff of cedar. Horsemen he had none,
neither before nor behind his chariot: as it seemeth, to avoid all tumult and trouble.
Behind his chariot went all the officers and principals of the companies of the city. He
sat alone, upon cushions of a kind of excellent plush, blue; and under his foot curious
carpets of silk of diverse colours, like the Persian, but far finer. He held up his bare
hand as he went, as blessing the people, but in silence. The street was wonderfully well
kept: so that there was never any army had their men stand in better battle-array than the
people stood. The windows likewise were not crowded, but everyone stood in them as if they
had been placed.
When the shew was past, the Jew said to me; "I shall not be able to attend you as
I would, in regard of some charge the city hath laid upon me, for the entertaining of this
great person." Three days after the Jew came to me again, and said; "Ye are
happy men; for the Father of Salomon's House taketh knowledge of your being here, and
commanded me to tell you that he will admit all your company to his presence, and have
private conference with one of you, that ye shall choose: and for this hath appointed the
next day after to-morrow. And because he meaneth to give you his blessing, he hath
appointed it in the forenoon.
[Footnote 62: Spread.]
[Footnote 63: Balsam.]
[Footnote 64: Steps.]
[Footnote 65: Throne.]
[Footnote 66: Canopy.]
We came at our day and hour, and I was chosen by my fellows for the private access. We
found him in a fair chamber, richly hanged, and carpeted under foot, without any degrees64
to the state.65 He was set upon a low Throne richly adorned, and a rich cloth
of state66 over his head, of blue satin embroidered. He was alone, save that he
had two pages of honour, on either hand one, finely attired in white. His undergarments
were the like that we saw him wear in the chariot; but instead of his gown, he had on him
a mantle with a cape, of the same fine black, fastened about him. When we came in, as we
were taught, we bowed low at our first entrance; and when we were come near his chair, he
stood up, holding forth his hand ungloved, and in posture of blessing; and we every one of
us stooped down, and kissed the hem of his tippet. That done, the rest departed, and I
remained. Then he warned67 the pages forth of the room, and caused me to sit
down beside him, and spake to me thus in the Spanish tongue.
"God bless thee, my son; I will give thee the greatest jewel I have. For I will
impart unto thee, for the love of God and men, a relation of the true state of Salomon's
House. Son, to make you know the true state of Salomon's House, I will keep this order.
First, I will set forth unto you the end of our foundation. Secondly, the preparations and
instruments we have for our works. Thirdly, the several employments and functions whereto
our fellows are assigned. And fourthly, the ordinances and rites which we observe.
"The end of our foundation is the knowledge of causes, and secret motions of
things; and the enlarging of the bounds of human empire, to the effecting of all things
possible.
[Footnote 67: Ordered.]
[Footnote 68: Experiments in thickening, hardening, freezing, and preserving.]
"The Preparations and Instruments are these. We have large and deep caves of
several depths: the deepest are sunk six hundred fathom: and some of them are digged and
made under great hills and mountains: so that if you reckon together the depth of the hill
and the depth of the cave, they are (some of them) above three miles deep. For we find,
that the depth of a hill, and the depth of a cave from the flat, is the same thing; both
remote alike, from the sun and heaven's beams, and from the open air. These caves we call
the Lower Region; and we use them for all coagulations, indurations, refrigerations, and
conservations68 of bodies. We use them likewise for the imitation of natural
mines; and the producing also of new artificial metals, by compositions and materials
which we use, and lay there for many years. We use them also sometimes, (which may seem
strange,) for curing of some diseases, and for prolongation of life in some hermits that
choose to live there, well accommodated of all things necessary, and indeed live very
long; by whom also we learn many things.
"We have burials in several earths, where we put diverse cements, as the Chineses
do their porcellain. But we have them in greater variety, and some of them more fine. We
have also great variety of composts,69 and soils, for the making of the earth
fruitful.
"We have high towers; the highest about half a mile in height; and some of them
likewise set upon high mountains; so that the vantage of the hill with the tower is in the
highest of them three miles at least. And these places we call the Upper Region;
accounting the air between the high places and the low, as a Middle Region. We use these
towers, according to their several heights, and situations, for insolation,70
refrigeration, conservation; and for the view of divers meteors; as winds, rain, snow,
hail; and some of the fiery meteors also. And upon them, in some places, are dwellings of
hermits, whom we visit sometimes, and instruct what to observe.
"We have great lakes, both salt, and fresh; whereof we have use for the fish and
fowl. We use them also for burials of some natural bodies: for we find a difference in
things buried in earth or in air below the earth, and things buried in water. We have also
pools, of which some do strain fresh water out of salt; and others by art do turn fresh
water into salt. We have also some rocks in the midst of the sea, and some bays upon the
shore for some works, wherein is required the air and vapor of the sea. We have likewise
violent streams and cataracts, which serve us for many motions:71 and likewise
engines71 for multiplying and enforcing of winds, to set also on going diverse
motions.
"We have also a number of artificial wells and fountains, made in imitation of the
natural sources and baths; as tincted upon72 vitriol, sulphur, steel, brass,
lead, nitre, and other minerals. And again we have little wells for infusions of many
things, where the waters take the virtue quicker and better, than in vessels or basins.
And amongst them we have a water which we call Water of Paradise, being, by that we do to
it made very sovereign for health, and prolongation of life.
[Footnote 69: Manure]
[Footnote 70: Exposing to the action of the sum.]
[Footnote 71: Machines.]
[Footnote 72: Tinctured with.]
"We have also great and spacious houses where we imitate and demonstrate meteors;
as snow, hail, rain, some artificial rains of bodies and not of water, thunders,
lightnings; also generations of bodies in air; as frogs, flies, and divers others.
"We have also certain chambers, which we call Chambers of Health, where we qualify
the air as we think good and proper for the cure of divers diseases, and preservation of
health.
"We have also fair and large baths, of several mixtures, for the cure of diseases,
and the restoring of man's body from arefaction:73 and others for the
confirming of it in strength of sinewes, vital parts, and the very juice and substance of
the body.
"We have also large and various orchards and gardens; wherein we do not so much
respect beauty, as variety of ground and soil, proper for divers trees and herbs: some
very spacious, where trees and berries are set whereof we make divers kinds of drinks,
besides the vineyards. In these we practise likewise all conclusions74 of
grafting, and inoculating75 as well of wild-trees as fruit-trees, which
produceth many effects. And we make (by art) in the same orchards and gardens, trees and
flowers to come earlier or later than their seasons; and to come up and bear more speedily
than by their natural course they do. We make them also by art greater much than their
nature; and their fruit greater and sweeter and of different taste, smell, colour, and
figure, from their nature. And many of them we so order, as they become of medicinal use.
"We have also means to make divers plants rise by mixtures of earths without
seeds; and likewise to make divers new plants, differing from the vulgar; and to make one
tree or plant turn into another.
[Footnote 73: Drying up.]
[Footnote 74: Experiments.]
[Footnote 75: Budding.]
[Footnote 76: Surgery.]
"We have also parks and enclosures of all sorts of beasts and birds which we use
not only for view or rareness, but likewise for dissections and trials; that thereby we
may take light what may be wrought upon the body of man. Wherein we find many strange
effect; as continuing life in them, though divers parts, which you account vital, be
perished and taken forth; resuscitating of some that seem dead in appearance; and the
like. We try also all poisons and other medicines upon them, as well of chirurgery,76
as physic. By art likewise, we make them greater or taller than their kind77
is; and contrariwise dwarf them, and stay their growth: we make them more fruitful and
bearing than their kind is; and contrariwise barren and not generative. Also we make them
differ in colour, shape, activity, many ways. We find means to make commixtures and
copulations of different kinds; which have produced many new kinds, and them not barren,
as the general opinion is. We make a number of kinds of serpents, worms, flies, fishes, of
putrefaction; whereof, some are advanced (in effect) to be perfect creatures, like beasts
or birds; and have sexes, and do propagate. Neither do we this by chance, but we know
beforehand, of what matter and commixture what kind of those creatures will arise.
"We have also particular pools, where we make trials upon fishes, as we have said
before of beasts and birds.
"We have also places for breed and generation of those kinds of worms and flies
which are of special use; such as are with you your silk-worms and bees.
[Footnote 77: Species.]
[Footnote 78: Boiled do]
[Footnote 79: Creep]
[Footnote 80: Delay.]
"I will not hold you long with recounting of our brew-houses, bake-houses, and
kitchens, where are made divers drinks, breads, and meats, rare and of special effects.
Wines we have of grapes; and drinks of other juice of fruits, of grains, and of roots; and
of mixtures with honey, sugar, manna, and fruits dried, and decocted;78 Also of
the tears or woundings of trees; and of the pulp of canes. And these drinks are of several
ages, some to the age or last of forty years. We have drinks also brewed with several
herbs, and roots, and spices; yea with several fleshes, and white-meats; whereof some of
the drinks are such, as they are in effect meat and drink both: so that divers, especially
in age, do desire to live with them, with little or no meat or bread. And above all, we
strive to have drink of extreme thin parts, to insinuate79 into the body, and
yet without all biting, sharpness, or fretting; insomuch as some of them put upon the back
of your hand will, with a little stay,80 pass through to the palm, and yet
taste mild to the mouth. We have also waters which we ripen in that fashion, as they
become nourishing; so that they are indeed excellent drink; and many will use no other.
Breads we have of several grains, roots, and kernels; yea and some of flesh and fish
dried; with divers kinds of leavenings and seasonings: so that some do extremely move
appetites; some do nourish so, as divers do live of them, without any other meat; who live
very long. So for meats, we have some of them so beaten and made tender and mortified,81
yet without all corrupting, as a weak heat of the stomach will turn them into good chylus;82
as well as a strong heat would meat otherwise prepared. We have some meats also and breads
and drinks, which taken by men enable them to fast long after; and some other, that used
make the very flesh of men's bodies sensibly83 more hard and tough and their
strength far greater than otherwise it would be.
"We have dispensatories, or shops of medicines. Wherein you may easily think, if
we have such variety of plants and living creatures more than you have in Europe, (for we
know what you have,) the simples, drugs, and ingredients of medicines, must likewise be in
so much the greater variety. We have them likewise of divers ages, and long fermentations.
And for their preparations, we have not only all manner of exquisite distillations and
separations, and especially by gentle heats and percolations through divers strainers, yea
and substances; but also exact forms84 of composition, whereby they incorporate
almost, as they were natural simples.
"We have also divers mechanical arts, which you have not; and stuffs made by them;
as papers, linen, silks, tissues; dainty works of feathers of wonderful lustre; excellent
dies, and many others; and shops likewise, as well for such as are not brought into vulgar
use amongst us as for those that are. For you must know that of the things before recited,
many of them are grown into use throughout the kingdom; but yet, if they did flow from our
invention, we have of them also for patterns and principals.85
[Footnote 81: Made tender.]
[Footnote 82: Chyle.]
[Footnote 83: Perceptibly to the touch.]
[Footnote 84: Formulas.]
[Footnote 85: Models.]
[Footnote 86: Orbits.]
"We have also furnaces of great diversities, and that keep great diversity of
heats; fierce and quick; strong and constant; soft and mild; blown, quiet; dry, moist; and
the like. But above all, we have heats, in imitation of the Sun's and heavenly bodies'
heats, that pass divers inequalities, and (as it were) orbs,86 progresses, and
returns, whereby we produce admirable effects. Besides, we have heats of dungs; and of
bellies and maws of living creatures, and of their bloods and bodies; and of hays and
herbs laid up moist; of lime unquenched; and such like. Instruments also which generate
heat only by motion. And farther, places for strong insolations;87 and again,
places under the earth, which by nature, or art, yield heat. These divers heats we use, as
the nature of the operation, which we intend, requireth.
"We have also perspective-houses,88 where we make demonstrations of all
lights and radiations; and of all colours: and out of things uncoloured and transparent,
we can represent unto you all several colours; not in rain-bows, (as it is in gems, and
prisms,) but of themselves single. We represent also all multiplications89 of
light, which we carry to great distance, and make so sharp as to discern small points and
lines. Also all colourations of light; all delusions and deceits of the sight, in figures,
magnitudes, motions, colours: all demonstrations of shadows. We find also divers means,
yet unknown to you, of producing of light originally90 from divers bodies. We
procure means of seeing objects afar off; as in the heaven and remote places; and
represent things near as afar off; and things afar off as near; making feigned distances.
We have also helps for the sight, far above spectacles and glasses in use. We have also
glasses and means to see small and minute bodies perfectly and distinctly; as the shapes
and colours of small flies and worms, grains and flaws in gems, which cannot otherwise be
seen, observations in urine and blood not otherwise to be seen. We make artificial
rainbows, halo's, and circles about light. We represent also all manner of reflexions,
refractions, and multiplications89 of visual beams of objects.
"We have also precious stones of all kinds, many of them of great beauty, and to
you unknown; crystals likewise; and glasses of divers kinds: and amongst them some of
metals vitrificated,91 and other materials besides those of which you make
glass. Also a number of fossils, and imperfect minerals, which you have not. Likewise
loadstones of prodigious virtue; and other rare stones, both natural and artificial.
[Footnote 87: Exposure to the sun.]
[Footnote 88: Places for optical experiments.]
[Footnote 89: Intensifications.]
[Footnote 90: Spontaneously.]
[Footnote 91: Turned into glass.]
"We have also sound-houses, where we practise and demonstrate all sounds, and
their generation. We have harmonies which you have not, of quarter-sounds, and lesser
slides92 of sounds. Divers instruments of music likewise to you unknown, some
sweeter than any you have, together with bells and rings that are dainty and sweet. We
represent small sounds as great and deep; likewise great sounds extenuate93 and
sharp; we make divers tremblings and warblings of sounds, which in their original94
are entire. We represent and imitate all articulate sounds and letters, and the voices and
notes of beasts and birds. We have certain helps which set to the ear do further the
hearing greatly. We have also divers strange and artificial echoes, reflecting the voice
many times, and as it were tossing it: and some that give back the voice louder than it
came, some shriller, and some deeper; yea, some rendering the voice differing in the
letters or articulate sound from that they receive. We have also means to convey sounds in
trunks and pipes, in strange lines and distances.
"We have also perfume-houses; wherewith we join also practices of taste. We
multiply smells, which may seem strange. We imitate smells, making all smells to breathe
out of other mixtures than those that give them. We make divers imitations of taste
likewise, so that they will deceive any man's taste. And in this house we contain95
also a confiture-house; where we make all sweet-meats, dry and moist; and divers pleasant
wines, milks, broths, and sallets; in far greater variety than you have.
[Footnote 92: Fine shades.]
[Footnote 93: Thin.]
[Footnote 94: Origin.]
[Footnote 95: Include.]
[Footnote 96: A kind of cannon.]
"We have also engine-houses, where are prepared engines and instruments for all
sorts of motions. There we imitate and practise to make swifter motions than any you have,
either out of your muskets or any engine that you have: and to make them and multiply them
more easily, and with small force, by wheels and other means: and to make them stronger
and more violent than yours are; exceeding your greatest cannons and basilisks.96
We represent also ordnance and instruments of war, and engines of all kinds: and likewise
new mixtures and compositions of gun-powder, wild-fires burning in water, and
unquenchable. Also fire-works of all variety both for pleasure and use. We imitate also
flights of birds; we have some degrees of flying in the air. We have ships and boats for
going under water, and brooking97 of seas; also swimming-girdles and
supporters. We have divers curious clocks, and other like motions of return: and some
perpetual motions. We imitate also motions of living creatures, by images, of men, beasts,
birds, fishes, and serpents. We have also a great number of other various motions, strange
for equality, fineness, and subtilty.
"We have also a mathematical house, where are represented all instruments, as well
of geometry as astronomy, exquisitely made.
"We have also houses of deceits of the senses; where we represent all manner of
feats of juggling, false apparitions, impostures, and illusions; and their fallacies.98
And surely you will easily believe that we that have so many things truly natural which
induce admiration,99 could in a world of particulars deceive the senses, if we
would disguise those things and labour to make them seem more miraculous. But we do hate
all impostures, and lies; insomuch as we have severely forbidden it to all our fellows,
under pain of ignominy and fines, that they do not shew any natural work or thing, adorned
or swelling; but only pure as it is, and without all affectation of strangeness.
"These are (my son) the riches of Salomon's House.
"For the several employments and offices of our fellows; we have twelve that sail
into foreign countries, under the names of other nations, (for our own we conceal); who
bring us the books, and abstracts, and patterns of experiments of all other parts. These
we call Merchants of Light.
"We have three that collect the experiments which are in all books. These we call
Depredators.100
"We have three that collect the experiments of all mechanical arts; and also of
liberal sciences; and also of practices which are not brought into arts. These we call
Mystery-men.101
"We have three that try new experiments, such as themselves think good. These we
call Pioners or Miners.
[Footnote 97: Withstanding.]
[Footnote 98: Exposures.]
[Footnote 99: Wonder.]
[Footnote 100: Pillagers.]
[Footnote 101: Craftsmen.]
"We have three that draw the experiments of the former four into titles and
tables, to give the better light for the drawing of observations and axioms out of them.
These we call Compilers.
"We have three that bend themselves, looking into the experiments of their
fellows, and cast about how to draw out of them things of use and practise for man's life,
and knowledge, as well for works as for plain demonstration of causes, means of natural
divinations, and the easy and clear discovery of the virtues and parts of bodies. These we
call Dowry-men102 or Benefactors.
"Then after divers meetings and consults of our whole number, to consider of the
former labours and collections, we have three that take care, out of them, to direct new
experiments, of a higher light, more penetrating into nature than the former. These we
call Lamps.
"We have three others that do execute the experiments so directed, and report
them. These we call Inoculators.
"Lastly, we have three that raise the former discoveries by experiments into
greater observations, axioms, and aphorisms. These we call Interpreters of Nature.
"We have also, as you must think, novices and apprentices, that the succession of
the former employed men do not fail; besides, a great number of servants and attendants,
men and women. And this we do also: we have consultations, which of the inventions and
experiences which we have discovered shall be published, and which not: and take all an
oath of secrecy, for the concealing of those which we think fit to keep secret: though
some of those we do reveal sometimes to the state and some not.
[Footnote 102: Endowment men.]
"For our ordinances and rites: we have two very long and fair galleries: in one of
these we place patterns and samples of all manner of the more rare and excellent
inventions: in the other we place the statuas of all principal inventors. There we have
the statua of your Columbus, that discovered the West Indies: also the inventor of ships:
your monk that was the inventor of ordnance and of gunpowder: the inventor of music: the
inventor of letters: the inventor of printing: the inventor of observations of astronomy:
the inventor of works in metal: the inventor of glass: the inventor of silk of the worm:
the inventor of wine: the inventor of corn and bread: the inventor of sugars: and all
these, by more certain tradition than you have. Then have we divers inventors of our own,
of excellent works; which since you have not seen, it were too long to make descriptions
of them; and besides, in the right understanding of those descriptions you might easily
err. For upon every invention of value, we erect a statua to the inventor, and give him a
liberal and honourable reward. These statuas are some of brass; some of marble and
touch-stone;103 some of cedar and other special woods gilt and adorned; some of
iron; some of silver; some of gold.
"We have certain hymns and services, which we say daily, of Lord and thanks to God
for his marvellous works: and forms of prayers, imploring his aid and blessing for the
illumination of our labours, and the turning of them into good and holy uses.
"Lastly, we have circuits or visits of divers principal cities of the kingdom;
where, as it cometh to pass, we do publish such new profitable inventions as we think
good. And we do also declare natural divinations of diseases, plagues, swarms of hurtful
creatures, scarcity, tempests, earthquakes, great inundations, comets, temperature of the
year, and divers other things; and we give counsel thereupon, what the people shall do for
the prevention and remedy of them."
And when he had said this, he stood up; and I, as I had been taught, kneeled down, and
he laid his right hand upon my head, and said; "God bless thee, my son; and God bless
this relation, which I have made. I give thee leave to publish it for the good of other
nations; for we here are in God's bosom, a land unknown." And so he left me; having
assigned a value of about two thousand ducats, for a bounty to me and my fellows. For they
give great largesses where they come upon all occasions.
[The rest was not perfected.]
[Footnote 103: A variety of jasper.]
