dred soldiers in garrison. He could
not place much reliance upon the aid of undisciplined citizens. Still
his brave spirit was disposed to present a desperate resistance. He
called his council together, but was unwilling to have the people know
the nature of the summons, lest they should clamor for a surrender.

But the citizens held a meeting, voted in favor of non-resistance, and
demanded an authentic copy of the communication, which had been
received from the commander of the English fleet. They adjourned to
meet on Monday morning to receive the reply. Governor Stuyvesant was
greatly distressed. After the Sabbath he went to the meeting in
person, and endeavored to convince those present of the impropriety of
their demands. But the citizens, trembling in view of the bombardment
of the town, were in no mood to listen to his persuasions.

It was not needful for the English to be in any hurry. The prey was
entirely within their grasp. It will be remembered that Governor
Winthrop of Hartford, had joined the expedition. Colonel Nicholls
addressed a letter to Governor Winthrop, requesting him to visit the
city under a flag of truce, and communicate the contents to Governor
Stuyvesant. The Dutch governor came out of the fort to receive the
letter, and then returned into the fort to read it. The following was
the letter:

"Mr. Winthrop:--

"As to those particulars you spoke to me, I do assure you that if the
Manhadoes be delivered up to his Majesty, I shall not hinder but any
people from the Netherlands may freely come and plant there or
thereabouts. And such vessels of their own country, may freely come
thither. And any of them may as freely return home, in vessels of
their own country; and this and much more is contained in the
privilege of his Majesty's English subjects. This much you may, by
what means you please, assure the governor from, Sir, your
affectionate servant,

"Richard Nicholls.

"August 22, 1664. O.S."

The Council demanded that this letter should be exhibited to the
people. The governor refused, saying that it would be quite
unfavorable to the defence to communicate such intelligence to the
inhabitants. As the council persisted, the governor, in a passion,
tore up the letter and trampled it beneath, his feet. The rumor spread
rapidly that a flag of truce had come.

The citizens collected in a large and excited gathering, and sent a
delegation of three persons to demand of the governor the
communi