selves by various reasons
and subterfuges, but some notwithstanding supposed that such was their
design. The third time it became apparent, from their building a fort,
what their intentions were. Director Kieft, when he obtained information
of the matter, protested against it, but in vain. It was plainly and
clearly to be seen, in the progress of the affair, that they did not
intend to leave. It is matter of evidence that above Maghchachansie,(5)
near the Sankikans, the arms of Their High Mightinesses were erected
by order of Director Kieft, as a symbol that the river, with all the
country and the lands around there, were held and owned under Their
High Mightinesses. But what fruits has it produced as yet, other than
continued derision and derogation of dignity? For the Swedes, with
intolerable insolence, have thrown down the arms, and since they are
suffered to remain so, this is looked upon by them, and particularly
by their governor, as a Roman achievement. True, we have made several
protests, as well against this as other transactions, but they have had
as much effect as the flying of a crow overhead; and it is believed that
if this governor had a supply of men, there would be more madness in him
than there has been in the English, or any of their governors. This much
only in regard to the Swedes, since the Company's officers will be able
to make a more pertinent explanation, as all the documents and papers
remain with them; to which, and to their journals we ourselves refer.

(1) Hog Creek, now called Salem Creek, where New Haven men
settled in 1641 at or near the present site of Salem, New
Jersey.

(2) Fort Nya Elfsborg, 1643-1654, a little further down the
Delaware River.

(3) Christina Creek; the fort was in what is now Wilmington,
Delaware.

(4) Peter Minuit.

(5) Apparently within the present bounds of Philadelphia,
where Andries Hudde, acting under orders from Kieft,
purchased land and set up the arms of the States General in
September, 1646. The Sankikans occupied northern New
Jersey, with an important village at or near Trenton.

The English have sought at different times and places to incorporate
this river which they say is annexed to their territory, but this has as
yet been prevented by different protests. We have also expelled them by
force, well knowing that if they once settled there, we should lose
the river or hold it with mu