to that from England. The Dutch gradually became
reconciled to his rule. They enjoyed all the rights and immunities
which were conferred upon any of the subjects of England in her
American colonies. Out of respect to the governor they organized two
militia companies, the officers of which were from the most
distinguished of the Dutch citizens, and they received their
commissions from him.

In August of 1668, Colonel Nicholls, at his own request, was recalled,
and he returned to England. The Dutch did not love him, for they never
could forget the circumstances under which he had conquered their
province. But he had won their respect. As he embarked for the shores
of England the great body of the citizens complimented him by a
respectful leave-taking.

Colonel Nicholls was succeeded in the government of the province, by
Colonel Francis Lovelace. He was an English officer of respectable
abilities, and of worthy character. Under his sway, New York for five
years, until 1673, enjoyed prosperity and peace. New agitations then
took place.

The peace, of which we have spoken, between England and Holland, was
of but transient duration. In 1672 war was again declared by England.
The conflict which ensued was mainly upon the ocean. New York had so
grown since its conquest by the English, and could so easily be
reinforced by almost any number of men from populous New England, that
the Dutch did not think that there was any chance of their then being
able to regain the colony. They, however, fitted out a fleet of five
ships, to cruise along the coast of North America, destroy the
English, and inflict such injury upon any and all of the English
colonies as might be in their power.

Governor Lovelace had no idea that any Dutch ships would venture
through the Narrows. He made no special effort to strengthen the
defences of New York. Early in February he went to Westchester county,
to visit at the residence of his friend Mr. Pell. This was quite a
journey in those days. The command of the fort was entrusted, during
his absence to Captain John Manning.

A vessel entered the port, bringing the intelligence that a Dutch
fleet had been seen off the coast of Virginia, sailing in the
direction of New York. This created great commotion. A dispatch was
sent, in the utmost haste, to the governor, summoning his return. He
promptly mustered, for the defence, all the forces he could raise in
the city and neighboring counties, and soon five h