orth-west passage;
but his mate, Ibbott, fearing the dangers they would have to encounter,
formed a conspiracy. Hudson, and those who adhered to him, were set on
shore, and perished miserably.

In 1611 the East India Company sent out another fleet under Captain
Hippin, and the following year a second under Captain Saris, who reached
Japan. By judicious conduct, and the due administration of bribes to
many persons nearest the emperor, he succeeded in establishing a trade
for the English with Japan, returning home with a very profitable cargo.

In the year 1611 the Muscovy Company despatched two vessels to commence
the whale fishery. On board these vessels went three Biscayans who were
accustomed to the business. Having set sail late, they had only time to
catch one whale, but from it were made seven tons of oil. The rest of
the crew having observed the manner in which the Biscayans performed the
work, became thorough masters of the operation. Though this
commencement was but small, it led to great results, and from
henceforward there was no want of people ready to enter into the
undertaking.

In consequence of the account given by those who were wrecked in the
_Sea Venture_ on the Bermudas, a colony was sent out, and the hitherto
desolate islands were peopled by English settlers.

One of the most gallant exploits of this period was performed by Captain
Best, who sailed in command of a fleet sent out by the East India
Company. After remaining for some time at Surat, he caught sight of a
vast fleet of Portuguese, numbering no less than 240 vessels. Having
beaten off a number of them that attacked him, he continued his course.
They, however, having repaired damages, the whole fleet came in search
of him. As they bore down under a cloud of sail, threatening his
destruction, he was advised by one of the Sultan's principal officers to
fly. Best replied that he would advise that to the Portuguese, and,
weighing anchor, stood out to meet the enemy. The shore was crowded
with natives eager to witness the engagement. It ended, after four
hours, as the other had done. The Portuguese, after receiving immense
damage, sailed away as fast as they could, and Captain Best returned and
anchored in the harbour, amid the shouts of the people. The account of
the engagement was everywhere told among the natives, and the courage of
the English magnified to the highest. After touching at Achin, and
renewing his friendship wit