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+Project Gutenberg's William Bradford of Plymouth, by Albert Hale Plumb
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: William Bradford of Plymouth
+
+Author: Albert Hale Plumb
+
+Release Date: September 20, 2010 [EBook #33776]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WILLIAM BRADFORD OF PLYMOUTH ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Roberta Staehlin and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+    [Illustration: Copyright by A. S. Burbank, Plymouth, Mass.
+    BIRTHPLACE OF WILLIAM BRADFORD. AUSTERFIELD, ENGLAND.]
+
+
+
+
+    WILLIAM BRADFORD
+    OF PLYMOUTH
+
+    BY
+
+    ALBERT H. PLUMB
+
+    [Illustration]
+
+    BOSTON
+    RICHARD G. BADGER
+    THE GORHAM PRESS
+
+
+    COPYRIGHT, 1920, BY RICHARD G. BADGER
+
+    All Rights Reserved
+
+    Made in the United States of America
+
+    The Gorham Press, Boston, U. S. A.
+
+
+
+
+TO ALL DESCENDANTS OF
+
+WILLIAM BRADFORD
+
+AND TO ALL WHO ADMIRE THIS LEADER OF NEW ENGLAND'S FOUNDERS THIS CONCISE
+AND UNPRETENTIOUS RECORD OF HIS LIFE AND ACTS IS
+
+DEDICATED
+
+IN THE HOPE THAT BY HIS EXAMPLE WE MAY BE INSPIRED AND STRENGTHENED, THE
+BETTER TO DO OUR OWN PART IN NOBLE LIVING AND IN PRIVATE AND PUBLIC
+ACHIEVEMENTS
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+It is a pleasing task to record afresh the life course of one of those
+whom the poet Whittier characterized as "the noblest ancestry that ever
+a people looked back to with love and reverence."
+
+The leading authorities, particularly the Pilgrim narrators themselves
+and those more nearly contemporary with them, have contributed to this
+biography. Though early Plymouth events and the career of Bradford are
+inseparably connected, the colonial history is here limited and made
+subservient to the personal consideration, with regret that there do not
+appear more obtainable data of this nature. Undoubtedly the Governor's
+modest reticence largely accounts for this. We can only be thankful that
+we have what we have.
+
+        ALBERT H. PLUMB.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+                                          PAGE
+
+    I
+    THE BOY                                 11
+
+    II
+    THE PILGRIM                             23
+
+    III
+    THE GOVERNOR: EARLY DUTIES              41
+
+    IV
+    THE GOVERNOR: LATER ADMINISTRATION      61
+
+    V
+    THE GOVERNOR: LAST ACTS                 89
+
+
+
+
+WILLIAM BRADFORD OF PLYMOUTH
+
+
+
+
+I
+
+THE BOY
+
+    _Earth's transitory things decay,
+    Its pomps, its pleasures pass away;
+    But the sweet memory of the good
+    Survives in the vicissitude._
+
+        J. BOWRING.
+
+
+The world has nothing more worthy of our regard than its unconscious
+heroes. Though many can discern their own true importance, a peculiar
+charm invests such as do not realize it, even if they are told. They
+seem to think others would have done better in their place, and they
+lightly estimate their services, at less than their fellow-men accredit
+them. His ideal of duty captivates the doer more than his own agency
+therein. The noblest men are made by the contemplation of their models.
+Like the great Apostle, they are not disobedient unto the heavenly
+vision. Among earth's worthies, modest and unconscious of greatness,
+there stands the figure of William Bradford.
+
+We find him first as a native of Austerfield, England, on the south
+border of Yorkshire. There is no official record of his birth. But in
+addition to his own declaration of age when first married, the clearly
+legible record of his baptism, March 19, 1589, would indicate that by
+the modern calendar he was born in 1590. The garments worn by him at the
+chapel March 19-29, being a short white linen covering and mitts which
+came for exhibition to Essex Institute in Salem, Massachusetts, are the
+apparel of a small babe.
+
+The affirmation of Bradford, as a man thoroughly established in his
+integrity and his accuracy of statement, this declaration in the
+important matter of his marriage contract when he was required to
+subscribe his own signature, must be accepted as more weighty than the
+opinions given by others regarding his age in later years of his life,
+and the posthumous inscription placed long afterward on his monument. It
+is unlikely that he was consulted about his age, for any future epitaph,
+since even the necessary making of his will was deferred to the day of
+his death. Not long before his nuptials on December 10-20, 1613, he
+averred that he was twenty-three; and, supposing an error of his quite
+improbable here, our conclusion appears justified that he was born in
+1590 by the Gregorian calendar. We also have no reason to doubt an old
+claim that his natal month was the same as his baptismal, March.
+Besides, the rule existed then, that the rite should be administered one
+week after birth. If this contemporary custom was followed, William saw
+the light of day March 12, 1589, by Old Style, or March 22, 1590, New
+Style.
+
+It is unfortunate that the baptismal font, despite efforts to purchase
+it back, has not yet, to our knowledge, been yielded by the Methodist
+church in Lound, Nottinghamshire, and restored to its proper place at
+Saint Helen's in Austerfield. The Austerfield font at present we do not
+accept as the genuine original. That original one at Saint Helen's about
+the time of our Civil War seems to have been a victim to the generally
+weaker antiquarian interest then, and it was replaced by a high basin.
+It came back soon but evidently was unused, lying upon the floor aside.
+Then a sexton was ordered to take out and sell superfluous articles.
+After resting on an estate as a garden stone, it was given to a lady
+from Austerfield, who loaned it indefinitely to the church mentioned. It
+is a large Norman bowl, rough-hewn and of ancient aspect, which when in
+use was for convenience set upon a wooden block.
+
+When the tolling bells above the small stone chapel summoned the
+Bradford family and friends to the solemn service, little did they
+discern, with all their natural affection, any unusual significance in
+that consecration of a life to be expended far from the quiet hamlet of
+old England in a growing community of New England.
+
+As the child came to an age of sufficient understanding, how strongly
+must this humble shrine have appealed to him, with the development of
+his proclivities guided by one circumstance after another! It was
+erected during the twelfth century, in the centre of the village, when
+the rustic parish was presented by a person of rank for the support of a
+chaplain. Doubtless the lad's eyes often scrutinized the zigzag Norse
+symbol of lightning, and other ornamentation, carved upon the double
+arch under which he was wont to enter.
+
+The whole region was rich in historic interest to any reflective mind.
+It was the battle ground of Briton, Roman and Anglo-Saxon. It formed the
+heart of the Danish territory, opposite their native continental shores.
+The Robin Hood marauders operated through this sparsely settled North of
+England, where the last of several uprisings against the South was
+attempted only about a score of years before Bradford's birth. The
+people were comparatively rude and uneducated, with few schools; and
+papal influence yielded more slowly away from the governmental
+headquarters. If Mary Queen of Scots had not been executed shortly
+before the Puritan churches arose, it is difficult to see how or when
+they could have lived so near her seat of power. But Elizabeth, in her
+laudable aim to uplift the nation by improving the people and repressing
+the nobles, encouraged the incoming of tens of thousands of Dutch, of
+whom many flocked to the fair lowlands east and north, imparting their
+tolerant ideas, bestowing names upon numerous localities, and producing
+a marked effect in the speech and blood of the inhabitants. The Queen
+required every family of Hollanders to take an English apprentice in
+their imported arts and crafts. Thus England changed rapidly from a
+country merely agricultural to one also manufacturing, where industry
+was pursued in weaving cloth and in glass, pottery, iron and various
+metals, wrought not in factories at first but in private houses as once
+was commonly done in New England.
+
+The religious effect of this immigration was not in the royal reckoning;
+for much as Elizabeth hated the papacy, she despised its counterpart, as
+quite too good for her liking, namely, the body of her subjects which
+represented an intelligent faith, and holy practice according to the
+accepted dictates of a revered, studied and intensely cherished Sacred
+Scripture. Though she could do no more than patronize, from political
+motives, any order of spiritual devotion as long as she herself would
+not learn to love devoutly, she failed to realize that the infusion of
+the virile Puritan element, regardless of racial strain, in the field of
+religion saved her authorized church from relapsing into Romanism. Her
+successor, James, was a fit son of Mary of Scotland, in his intolerance
+towards Puritans, Protestants though they were.
+
+Austerfield itself, though having less than three hundred residents, was
+the scene of a great session in 702, when the Archbishop of Canterbury
+and the bishops of almost all England met with King Aldfrid to hear the
+complaint of Wilfred the Bishop of York, who was so ardent a Romanist
+that the former king had deposed him. The English under Aldfrid won
+against the papal party, but before the venerable Wilfred died he was
+restored to office and canonized, and the first Puritan assembly after
+coming to Scrooby gathered awhile in a stone church named for him.
+
+Bradford's native town also, despite its quiet rural beauty, lay upon
+the Great Northern Road to Scotland, as now on the railroad named after
+it the express comes thundering by from the grimy granite houses of
+Edinboro, bound for the mighty metropolis before midnight of the
+afternoon it started. But the old dirt road was only a few feet wide,
+almost a stranger to horse-drawn vehicles, especially pleasure
+carriages, even the ladies of the Elizabethan era using mostly their
+mounts, as those in America later rode on their pillions.
+
+More agreeable, locally, were the meadow paths along the Idle, and other
+leisurely streams of this boy's neighborhood. His family name was
+originally applied to those who lived at some convenient Broad Ford,
+many desirable crossings having some descriptive or defining term, like
+Ox Ford and Cam Bridge.
+
+His taste for Latin might well have been intensified by the very name of
+his Austerfield, which, earlier than the Anglo-Saxon localities, was
+probably named for the imperial Roman commander Ostorius, who had a
+defensive earthwork at his station near here. Its remains attested its
+military importance. And though the northern peasantry in young
+William's time were so untutored or morally lax, or both, that they were
+unacquainted with even their English Bible, it is not strange if these
+historical associations induced the more intelligent and refined yeomen
+to possess Latin books. It has been supposed that his own family owned
+them, with English works, all of which were rare and costly; and in
+addition to this likelihood, it is known that Rev. Mr. Silvester of
+Alkly had a classical collection in his own library. As this clergyman
+was a family friend and the guardian of William's cousins, the
+Austerfield boy would naturally become a visitor at the neighboring
+parsonage.
+
+Wills and records indicate that the Bradfords in general were of good
+repute and moved in the best society of that too decadent period. The
+Austerfield branch were yeomen, once so important in the English commons
+that they ranked next to the gentry.
+
+At the north end of the village the house still stands which tradition
+claims as our Bradford's birthplace. It is of substantial brick,
+exceedingly rare in his day and a sign of social distinction. Many
+houses of the time were quite attractive in appearance with their red
+roofs, green shutters and yellow doorsteps. This is a ruddy cottage from
+fluted tiling down to the grass, and sufficiently large to comprise two
+tenements now.
+
+The boy's grandfather William and maternal grandfather John Hanson were
+the only mentioned owners of property in their small town in 1575, and
+he inherited in time a good patrimony. His father William died in 1591,
+his mother Alice soon after, and the paternal grandfather, in whose care
+he was left, expired not until January of 1596, the only ancestor the
+third William would be likely to remember. Then the simple life and talk
+of the farm ceased, on the part of those who would converse with the lad
+on their common interests and show the most of natural affection toward
+him. The charge over his life by his uncles Thomas and Robert was one of
+legal imposition rather than a matter of love. Robert naturally wished
+him to be a farmer, but permitted him to study when he proved not very
+rugged at first.
+
+Before he was twelve, an illness of long continuance coming upon him,
+youthful intelligence and spiritual sensitiveness were developed in him
+untroubled by temptations more liable in physical vigor. Denied the
+warmth of family affection, and for a season the wholesome sports of
+youth, while naturally made more serious also as an orphan, the boy
+delighted in the contemplation of religious truth, particularly in Bible
+study; and this became with him a lifelong habit.
+
+Over the line in Nottinghamshire a few miles away, lay another small
+town, Scrooby, where one William Brewster was postmaster, well qualified
+as a collegiate and public official, to teach history and civil
+government. He occupied an ancient manor and commodious hostelry which
+royalty had twice coveted. Within its spacious halls were wont to gather
+a few earnest souls who were discontented with the empty formalism so
+common in religious profession at that time, and they were restive under
+the super-abundant authority of the state in church matters. They
+insisted on freedom of the individual conscience, from either civil or
+ecclesiastical domination, and were also convinced that genuine
+Christianity called for a Christlike life. This was nothing less than
+Puritanism, which as a term was originally coined by its foes in
+contempt, but later became a name of honor and glory. Though long in
+preparing, since Wycliffe gave to the English people the Holy Scriptures
+in their own familiar speech, this movement was only now coming to its
+full fruition; and the group of earnest worshipers in Scrooby, who had
+first organized at Gainsboro in 1602, composed the earliest Puritan
+church to stand and prosper, others following in a multitude as the
+cause gained momentum.
+
+Brewster was made Elder at Scrooby, and the boy Bradford was one of the
+charter members. He accepted the instruction of kind friends who were
+glad to satisfy his eager thirst for spiritual knowledge. Conspicuous
+among these was Rev. Richard Clyfton of Babworth, who ministered to the
+new church for a short time until their permanent pastor was secured,
+the devout and learned John Robinson. But before the church was formed
+in Gainsboro and Scrooby, when Bradford was hardly twelve he walked
+every Sunday over the fields to Babworth, six or seven miles from
+Austerfield, joining Brewster at Scrooby on the way. The Elder was made
+Postmaster in the year his future Governor was born, and the two
+Williams were lifelong intimates. Religiously he was like a father to
+the boy.
+
+With this unchecked expansion of his soul, young William's intellect was
+also awakened. Though at first forbidden advanced schooling, he became a
+self-taught man, a thoughtful student of history, philosophy and
+theology, proficient also in linguistics, as the classic Latin and
+Greek, and late in life, the original Hebrew of the Old Testament.
+
+His joining with the Separatists from the Established State Church of
+England was an act which offended his relatives and early acquaintances,
+who tried in vain to make him abandon his stand; for he could not,
+consistently with his convictions, comply with their desires. It was
+observed that "neither could the wrath of his uncles, nor the scoff of
+his neighbors, now turned upon him as one of the Puritans, divert him
+from his pious inclinations". Thus he answered them, "To keep a good
+conscience and walk in such a way as God has prescribed in his word is a
+thing which I shall prefer above you all, and above life itself."
+
+Government officers soon discovered this company of Dissenters, stopped
+their meetings, and proceeded to make arrests. In the autumn of 1607
+when seventeen years of age, Bradford and his associates endeavored to
+go over to Holland, where religious liberty was allowed. He was one of
+the chief advocates of this measure. But the ship master that was to
+take them betrayed their plan to the authorities, who sent the Puritans
+into prison at Boston in Lincolnshire. Next spring the same attempt was
+made, unsuccessfully again; for their rulers neither granted them
+freedom at home nor emigration abroad. But before that year of 1608
+passed, the victims of persecution escaped one after another, by various
+means, across the water to Amsterdam. Bradford's ship encountered a
+seven days' storm and was driven out of its course hundreds of miles,
+close to Norway, even the mariners giving up in despair. The Pilgrims
+remained calm, though unused to the sea; and our hero was heard to
+repeat in prayer, with his companions, "Yet, Lord, thou canst save."
+
+On reaching Holland, an envious passenger accused him as having fled
+from England as a culprit, and he was taken before the magistrates, who,
+however, willingly released him when the truth was known.
+
+Leyden was the Pilgrims' rendezvous. The place was congenial to the
+ardent spirit of this youth, and he became a student at the University
+there. He must have heard in England as a boy, how the martyr John
+Bradford, chaplain to Edward VI and one of the most acceptable preachers
+in the realm, because of his religious principles had been burned to
+death, in the reign of Bloody Mary. And the people of Leyden could
+recite for sympathetic ears, the tales of heroic and successful
+resistance against King Philip of Spain only thirty years before these
+Puritan refugees from intolerance arrived.
+
+William now went about to earn a living. As an apprentice to a French
+Protestant, he learned the trade of dying silk, and doubtless, beside
+his Dutch, acquired here his thorough familiarity with the French
+language so widely used even in those days.
+
+
+
+
+II
+
+THE PILGRIM
+
+    _The best inheritance they have left us is the New England
+    conscience. The Puritan's habit of self-examination and prayer
+    has left its impress on the habit of thought of the great nation
+    that has risen where he showed the way._
+
+        Governor Guild of Massachusetts, at the four hundredth
+        anniversary of the birth of Calvin, in Geneva, Switzerland,
+        July 9, 1909.
+
+    _Religious faith must ever be the motive power of humanity, and
+    whatever might become of despotism, with or without, it is
+    absolutely essential to democracy._
+
+        Governor Hughes of New York, at the Champlain Tercentenary,
+        Vermont, July 9, 1909.
+
+    _Religion is the only thing upon which to rest our salvation in
+    these times. It is religious principles to which our
+    Commonwealth owes its greatness._
+
+        Governor Calvin Coolidge of Massachusetts, at the twenty-fifth
+        anniversary of the Lord's Day League, Boston, 1920.
+
+
+On reaching the age of twenty-one, our Bradford became the possessor of
+his native estate in England, which he sold, as then useless for him to
+hold. But well he knew, that the recantation of his faith would restore
+him to independence and presumably to the favor of the Austerfield
+community. What lay in the future for him he could not conceive. He took
+the sale money and ventured in some commercial enterprise, but did not
+prosper in it. His career was to be of more importance than the business
+of a merchant.
+
+After turning twenty-two, he was admitted, on proof and security, a
+citizen of Leyden, as William Bradford, Englishman. In the end of the
+next year his marriage bans were published, and he was registered as a
+worker in fustian, a coarse cloth of cotton and flax. On December 20,
+1613, he wedded Dorothy May, aged sixteen, formerly of Cambridge, and
+probably the granddaughter of John May, Bishop of Carlisle in 1577. Her
+autograph, "Dority May," appears in her marriage contract. Bradford,
+when in America later, had friendly correspondence with her father in
+Holland.
+
+While in Leyden now, he had the joy of perceiving the rapid growth of
+the Puritan fellowship there, numbering finally almost three hundred.
+Purchasing considerable land, they settled in a community by themselves.
+Robinson, their spiritual head, was held in much esteem throughout the
+city, for his noble character and fine abilities. Bradford in written
+eulogy ascribes to him "y^e tender love & godly care of a true pastor."
+
+Yet in spite of the hospitality of Holland, the condition was not normal
+nor the prospects ideal, for an English settlement among those of
+foreign speech. The rising generation would naturally affiliate with
+their neighbors, entering the Dutch army and society; and the outcome
+promised to be a blend of blood and customs. The truce between Holland
+and Spain would be over in 1619; and the Thirty Years War was already
+rising in Europe. Wishing to preserve their national character and
+distinct religious order, they meditated emigration as a colony. In this
+the foreign missionary motive was also strong, freely acknowledged, and
+always remembered. "A great hope & inward zeall they had," Bradford
+later recorded, "of laying some good foundation, or at least to make
+some way thereunto, for y^e propagating & advancing y^e gospell of y^e
+kingdom of Christ in those remote parts of y^e world; yea, though they
+should be but even as stepping-stones unto others for y^e performing of
+so great a work."
+
+They were dissuaded from the tropical enticements of Spanish American
+neighborhoods by the recollection of Spain's interests and ambitions
+there. The vote was indeed close, to go to any part of the strange
+western world; and our hero, being in favor of it, may have been
+required to turn the hesitating weight of opinion that way.
+
+But if residence in the British dominion, near or far, was preferable,
+some sort of recognition by the English government was necessary. This
+was a hard thing to secure, yet King James finally gave a reluctant
+verbal consent to their desired settlement in some remoter territory,
+where they would afford him and his servile clericals the least
+annoyance, while helping to establish the empire as respectable and
+industrious citizens.
+
+Royal toleration having been cautiously granted, the next task was to
+secure financial patronage. It was a task indeed, yet the Pilgrims, as
+these Separatist Puritans now called themselves, were happy in finding
+not only creditors who risked loans for mercantile considerations
+solely, but distinguished persons who were in sympathy with their
+Christian zeal and purity, as Sir Robert Naunton, Secretary of State to
+the King, and particularly Sir Edwin Sandys, a most worthy and
+influential man. For three years, however, the business negotiations
+dragged on, whose dreary details we will not rehearse, between the
+Puritans with their friends on one side, and on the other the failing or
+insecure London and old Plymouth colonial companies, the proffered Dutch
+sponsors whose kindness nevertheless looked to the Hudson and New
+Amsterdam, and finally the company of Merchant Adventurers, to whom the
+enterprising but unscrupulous Thomas Weston introduced the Pilgrims. He
+was useful to them in this crisis, because he procured their financial
+backing and made possible the journey to America. This benefit Bradford
+never forgot, despite all the falsehood, treachery, and ingratitude
+which Weston developed, who almost caused the ruin of the undertaking
+after he was weary of it and involved in difficulties through his
+mismanagement.
+
+The colonial plan was that the younger and more able of the Leyden
+community should go overseas at first, to prepare the way for the
+others; and it was well that Bradford and the most of his
+fellow-voyagers had the advantage of youthful prime, for the stern days
+of pioneering.
+
+The parting from their friends, on the embarkation at Delft Haven, was a
+sad experience, between the doubtful attractiveness of a distant savage
+land and the fact that it was likely to be, as it proved, a final
+leavetaking for many. Pastor Robinson, on his knees at the quay, poured
+out fervent petitions for their comrades about to go, commending them to
+divine protection. So affecting was the scene, that even the Dutch
+strangers beholding were moved to tears. Our Forefather wrote concerning
+this, "so they left the goodly and pleasant city, which had been their
+resting-place near twelve years; but they knew they were pilgrims, and
+looked not much on those things, but lift up their eyes to the heavens,
+their dearest country and quieted their spirits."
+
+The Speedwell which conveyed them came in a few days to Southampton, to
+find the Mayflower from London waiting for them, with their brethren of
+England. Picture the youthful adventurers in their ardor to set forth as
+pioneers to a land of comparative freedom. But the sailing was badly
+delayed, to their weariness and loss, while they protested against
+impossible terms of subservience to the Merchant Adventurers, who would
+have deprived the prospective planters of their independence. Then a
+hundred pounds extra was required "to clear things at their going away";
+and to raise this amount they had to sell some of their provisions,
+their leather for mending shoes, swords, muskets, much armor and various
+things seemingly indispensable.
+
+Before setting sail, a letter was received from Pastor Robinson, in
+which he mingled encouragement and sound counsel, urging them to fortify
+their souls by prayer, to preserve unity, exercise mutual patience and
+forbearance in their close relationship, and to submit to their own
+rules and chosen officers. Other wise advice was opportunely given,
+which was well received and profitably followed.
+
+About the middle of August the colonists launched forth. But their
+relief on going was short, for, by enough evidence and subsequent
+confession, the Speedwell was tampered with by her false and timorous
+Captain Reynolds, so that the vessels put back to port for another
+tedious period, eleven days, ostensibly for repairs. Starting a second
+time, Reynolds' ship sprang a leak again, and though three hundred miles
+out they were obliged to return. The creeping Speedwell was therefore
+abandoned, her passengers and cargo transferred to the Mayflower
+according to that larger ship's capacity; and after much kindness and
+acceptable entertainment by certain friends at old Plymouth, the
+Pilgrims, one hundred and two in number, ventured out the third time,
+and not in vain. This was September 6, or 16 by New Style.
+
+Mild weather and favoring winds were theirs at first, and the
+equinoctial rudeness tarried till the voyagers were nearly halfway
+across the Atlantic. Then they paid dearly for the wicked delays imposed
+upon them, for a succession of storms soon broke upon them in October.
+The west wind rushed upon them from the American north coasts, as if to
+forbid their approach. The mariners were once more in doubt about
+proceeding, as the upper works were strained, and a main beam amidships
+had cracked and bent. But by means of a huge iron screw, it was restored
+to position; and the discontented crew stood to their duty, since also
+the western shore was about as near as England. Sometimes drifting under
+bare poles over high seas, the top-heavy, overloaded vessel nevertheless
+refused to founder, and late in October fair weather returned.
+
+After dawn one November morning they sighted land, and recognized Cape
+Cod, well known to previous mariners. This landfall was evidently the
+Highlands of Truro. Steering south-west while well out, they encountered
+the shoals off Chatham, at the elbow of the Cape, and resolved to
+abandon the run under New England to the Hudson. Captain Jones
+practically took the matter into his own hands, and conveyed the
+sea-weary voyagers back and around the tip of the Cape, anchoring in the
+nearest available harbor, at present Provincetown, on Saturday, November
+21, New Style.
+
+Bradford says that before entering the harbor, they drew up a compact as
+"y^e first foundation of their governments in this place," to which he
+and all the men of the incipient Colony affixed their signatures. This
+classic document of essential democracy was a swift and prudent
+precaution against insubordination, which a few ultra-independent souls
+had threatened to show, declaring that on landing they would do as they
+pleased, since in New England they were not under the authority of their
+patent for Virginia. It was English territory, however, and in the
+beginning of the statement they professed themselves "loyal subjects" of
+King James. Better to have the protection of an unsympathetic sovereign
+than to become the prey of a lawless and irresponsible anarchy. Thus
+"before they came ashore," they secured themselves against despotism's
+opposite extreme. It was a timely act, done on the day of debarkation.
+
+The Mayflower boxed the compass, rounding the tip of the Cape and
+feeling her way in the circular harbor there. The inner beaches are
+shallow, and it seems even the longboat, though launched three-quarters
+of a mile off, could not be brought near the strand. The men were
+obliged to wade a bow-shot or two, landing at the insular Long Point,
+toward the sea, and carrying back to the boat swamp-cedar, as fire-wood
+aboard was gone. The exposure caused illness at this season, which with
+later aggravations proved fatal to some. Bradford escaped the "lung
+woe," but contracted an acute and critical form of rheumatism, or
+confirmed it after the chilly discomforts of the bunks and the sweeping
+gales of the voyage.
+
+Yet despite this prolonged cold foot-bath in American brine, he records
+that "being thus arrived in a good harbor, and brought safe to land;
+they fell upon their knees and blessed y^e God of heaven; who had
+brought them over y^e vast and furious ocean, and delivered them from
+all y^e periles and miseries thereof; againe to set their feete on y^e
+firm and stable earth, theire proper element."
+
+Though the Mayflower must have anchored before noon on Saturday, the
+first full day after arrival was Sunday, and these Pilgrims strangers
+had an opportunity to refresh themselves and prepare their souls for
+the strenuous business ahead. Also throughout that initial week of life
+in America, the weather was mellow and open. Several weeks were required
+for repairing the colonists' shallop, which was a means of more delay in
+the already very late season. But meanwhile, on the last Wednesday of
+November an exploring party started out with Capt. Jones and some
+seamen; and in the afternoon sixteen intending settlers followed, armed
+and under command of Myles Standish, Masters Bradford, Hopkins and
+Edward Tilley "being joined to him for council." They saw Indians, whom
+they followed for several miles, but could not come up with them.
+Finding much corn buried, they brought some of it to the ship and later
+paid the natives for it, after using it for seed. But in this and
+another trip on the narrow part of the Cape, they discovered no locality
+which suited them for settlement.
+
+As December came in, the protracted mildness changed to a sudden and
+intense cold, the ground freezing to a foot's depth, wind and snow also
+impeding their operations, while in the boats the congealed spray on
+their coats looked like a covering of glass. To add to the awkwardness
+of the situation, Capt. Jones threatened to put ashore the whole company
+with their families and scanty possessions, and return to England at
+once because of the late season and his diminishing food supply, unless
+they succeeded in finding a place for habitation. At this juncture
+Second Mate Coppin suggested that they look for a harbor somewhere
+around in Cape Cod Bay, which he remembered visiting on a fishing
+vessel. Accordingly, when December was now half through, ten of the
+Pilgrims, including Bradford, went in their repaired shallop with eight
+mariners, in search of that location, skirting the inner shores.
+
+They camped the first night on the south of the Bay, building a
+barricade of logs and boughs, as a shelter also against the wind, open
+on one side with a fire in the centre. Their defense was useful, for
+unawares they had come close to a settlement of Nauset Indians, a tribe
+which had suffered cruelty at the hands of infamous Capt. Hunt who
+kidnapped some of them and sold them abroad as slaves. Intent on
+revenge, they approached within hearing of the English sentry, about
+midnight; but on his raising the alarm, they made no attack then, and
+the voyagers returned to their needed sleep, not being sure whether the
+noise was caused by man or beast.
+
+On awakening Friday morning, December 18, they united in prayer for
+heavenly leading and protection, and encouraged one another. While
+breakfast was preparing, some of them went down to put their muskets in
+the shallop, but on the remonstrance of a few who retained their arms,
+the rest were laid on the bank above the boat. They had no sooner
+returned to their camp than they were startled by the ringing war-whoop,
+and one of their own number came running from the woods, calling to
+them, "Men, men! Indians, Indians!" A shower of arrows sought the
+barricade, transfixing some of the hanging coats. Fortunately the
+prudent four who had kept their weapons made good use of them, and some
+who had armor donned it and with their swords accompanied their comrades
+in a rush to the bank for the muskets, the Indians racing to intercept
+them but in vain. The weapons carelessly left were now discharged with a
+quieting effect, the savages soon retreating, without losses on either
+side. To increase their fear, the colonists pursued them a little way,
+shouting and firing. Then, thanking God for their deliverance, they
+embarked and went up the west shore northward.
+
+It was an uninviting coast. But Robert Coppin encouraged them in the
+hope of reaching before dark that harbor he had visited, though these
+were the shortest days of the year and thick weather was setting in
+fast, followed by snow and rain in the afternoon, a south-east storm
+rising. Their rudder broke under the strain, and two men were required
+to steer with oars the heavy shallop, which someone has considered as
+about thirty feet in length. It was shelterless, without deck or house.
+
+Finally their pilot gave the cheering news that he could discern the
+harbor. As the daylight was lessening and the tempest increasing, they
+risked too much sail with the intention of clearing the rocks at the
+entrance while they could see. Suddenly the overburdened mast snapped in
+three pieces and the sail went overboard, nearly capsizing the little
+vessel. Righting her quickly, and riding in by the oars with the tide
+aiding, their guide, however, failed to recognize the place in the
+deepening twilight. Trying to run ashore in the cove of Saquish, the
+breakers were so huge and thunderous there, that a seaman, wisely
+foreseeing disaster, protested and they turned away. But soon was heard
+a gentler wash against some protected beach, to which the oarsmen
+pulled. Grounding the keel, some of them gladly leaped out, feeling with
+inexpressible relief the solid strand beneath their feet. The others,
+remembering the encounter of early morning, remained in the shallop till
+after midnight, when a bitter clearing wind drove them ashore to the
+fire which their fellows had managed to kindle. There they all awaited
+the dawn.
+
+With the welcome day the north-west wind went down, and the sun added
+its warmth to the fire. They were pleased to find themselves upon an
+island, and they used that Saturday to dry out their soaked belongings
+and prepare their muskets, while taking a good look at the harbor. On a
+rock upon this Clarke's Island, are the words inscribed from their
+record, "On the Sabboth day wee rested." And with grateful joy they held
+their customary service, in the shelter of the boulder.
+
+Monday they sounded the harbor, as Bradford relates, and found it fit
+for shipping. Then they landed, bringing the boat by a large rock,
+whence they could more conveniently step ashore. The place proved
+uninhabited, but with desirable clearings, showing signs of rather
+recent occupancy. Marching about, they discovered the various natural
+advantages, including a number of brooks. They were satisfied that the
+location would be suitable for settlement. So passed December 21, our
+Forefathers' Day.
+
+It was good news which this advance party brought back to the Mayflower,
+and they all prepared to come to Plymouth, as they called it, because it
+had already been so named by Captain John Smith a few years before; and
+thus they also remembered the old Plymouth where they last beheld
+England, and were kindly entertained.
+
+Sad intelligence, however, awaited William Bradford. His wife Dorothy
+May, doubtless oppressed with loneliness in his absence, perhaps
+pensively and by herself looking for his return at the high stern's rail
+near the ladies' cabins, in weariness and weakness might easily have
+fallen asleep as in a rolling cradle, especially if seeking the relief
+of the salt ozone after nausea. In such case losing her balance, she
+fell overboard and was drowned, probably the stern's height making the
+water's concussion sufficient to produce instantaneous unconsciousness.
+
+On Christmas Day in our reckoning, the fifteenth in theirs, the
+Mayflower set sail for Plymouth, but contrary winds beat her back to
+her old anchorage. Next day, Saturday, the attempt was successful,
+barely; for within half an hour after arrival an adverse gale sprang up
+outside. But the sickle-shaped harbor held them safely. The long voyage
+was ended at last, a few days before the second decade of the
+seventeenth century closed.
+
+It went out in a cold rain-storm, with the life of another Pilgrim, for
+mortality had already commenced. Furious winds and driving rain, again
+deep snow followed by bitter cold, with consequent increase of sickness,
+hindered the colonists in their efforts to build log houses there in the
+dead of winter.
+
+New Year's Day, 1621, a tempestuous Friday, beheld a new-born babe, but
+unbreathing; and the first Sabbath ashore witnessed the seventh death in
+America, a toll of the dread Harvester which continued through all that
+winter, until seven times seven and two more expired, or almost half
+their whole company, while the Mayflower crew lost in the same
+proportion of fifty per cent. The vessel was retained till April, not
+only because adequate habitations could not be constructed soon enough
+under such fearful circumstances, but because there were not enough
+sailors in health to man the ship.
+
+Only four of the eighteen wives were spared. Five of the children died,
+yet fifteen survived. Bradford records concerning the survivors of this
+perilous enterprise, in uncertain exile compelled by persecution, "of
+these in the time of most distress, there was but six or seven sound
+persons who, to their great commendations be it spoken, spared no pains,
+night or day, but with abundance of toil and hazard of their own health,
+fetched them wood, made their fires, dressed their meat, made their
+beds, washed their loathsome clothes, clothed and unclothed them; in a
+word did all the homely and necessary offices for them; and all this
+willingly and cheerfully, without any grudging in the least, showing
+herein their true love unto their friends and brethren."
+
+This first month of the year and of the Colony brought Bradford himself
+a severe illness, in which an accident also threatened his life. A month
+from the original Forefathers' Day "the common house" was completed,
+where the workers slept and supplies from the ship were deposited. In
+this building, small like the seven dwellings that followed, lay in
+weakness Masters Carver and Bradford, one the Pilgrims' first Governor,
+even from sea-faring days, the other soon to be his successor. Early one
+Sunday morning the thatch roof caught fire and burned, though the house
+underneath was saved. The occupants escaped, though not without grave
+danger from explosion because of powder stored there.
+
+The plan of the little village was laid out Januuary seventh. Its main
+thoroughfare was simply called the Street, then, successively, First,
+Great, and Broad Street; but as late as 1823 it took the name of
+Leyden. On either side of it, less than a score of plots were set off
+for the various families. The distribution was by lot, though larger
+households received larger areas, according to the number of their
+members. The whole tract was enclosed next year within a stout palisade,
+about a mile in circuit, after signs of native hostility had made them
+more watchful than ever. On the hill at the head of the street a wooden
+fort was built, with which Bradford was said to be much pleased, as it
+was comparatively large and imposing. On its flat roof ordnance was
+installed, commanding the whole port. The interior was used for Sabbath
+congregations, and was the most commodious place for any public
+assembly.
+
+Almost from the first they had heard now and then a strange clamor on
+the outskirts, and occasionally they had caught sight of one or more
+savages lurking about. Several attempts to hold a general meeting had
+been prevented by the appearance of red men, including an agreeable
+visit from Samoset, a chief from the north who had learned sufficiently
+from English fishermen to enable him to converse with the Pilgrims and
+give them much valuable information. And within a week from that, the
+head of all the Old Colony tribes, Massasoit, came with about sixty men,
+forty of whom tarried outside while he and the others approached unarmed
+into the midst of ready firearms and within the secure walls of a house.
+Here was offered and received the mutual covenant of a friendship that
+proved lasting. Both contracting parties remained ever faithful to this
+solemn treaty.
+
+After the departure of Massasoit, the colonists held their first full
+convention, choosing officers and making a few statutes such as were
+then needed. John Carver, their excellent deacon and the senior of them
+all, was re-elected Governor, to continue for one year, the regular time
+limit adopted.
+
+But the Mayflower had not long sailed away, in the middle of April,
+before Carver succumbed to an early heat, as he toiled with his younger
+comrades in their planting; and the messenger of death released him from
+those initial responsibilities, which had weighed heavily upon him. His
+obsequies were performed with appropriate dignity, the seaside
+resounding with volleys discharged in his honor above the grave.
+
+Then the reduced Colony assembled again, and voted to place William
+Bradford in the office vacated by their worthy first leader.
+
+
+
+
+III
+
+THE GOVERNOR: EARLY DUTIES
+
+    _They are dead, God rest their souls, but their lives are still
+    the strength of ours.... Let us stand aside in silent veneration
+    of their heroic characters and achievements, and thank God who
+    strengthened them for labors we cannot even comprehend._
+
+        JANE G. AUSTIN, in "Standish of Standish."
+
+    _All great & honorable actions are accompanied with great
+    difficulties, and must be enterprised and overcome with
+    answerable courages._
+
+        WILLIAM BRADFORD.
+
+
+The new executive was still handicapped by the weakness of convalescence
+after his critical illness, though the election had been postponed till
+he was better; and he was aided by Isaac Allerton, a colonist of means
+and ability who was chosen as Governor's Assistant. At the chief
+magistrate's request, five assistants were given him in 1624, and the
+number was increased to seven in 1633 when his successor Edward Winslow
+was elected, "Mr. Bradford having been governor about ten years, and
+now by importunity got off," as Governor Winthrop of the Massachusetts
+Bay Colony wrote in his manuscript history of New England. The
+importunity was Bradford's, not the little Colony's; for he urged
+rotation of office, saying of the appointment, "If it is any honor or
+benefit, it is fit others should be made partakers of it; if it is a
+burden (as doubtless it is), it is but equal others should help to bear
+it, and this is the end of Annual Elections."
+
+Consequently Thomas Prince, a later settler, was voted to this position
+in 1634 and '38, and Mr. Winslow again in '36 and '44, three times in
+all. After that, for thirteen consecutive springs, Mr. Bradford was
+placed in the gubernatorial chair, and but for his decease then, he
+would probably have continued long therein. As it was, he held the
+office thirty full years. And in every instance when his request for a
+successor was heard, the ballot made him chief of assistants, or Deputy
+Governor. What clearer evidence could be furnished us, as to the
+sentiment of the people, both in their small original company and as
+numbers increased?
+
+His administration exhibited a happy blending of his constitutional
+mildness and moderation, combined with a firmness that could not be
+shaken, a patience that would not wear out, and an optimistic hope that
+was based upon his Christian faith. Offenders against the law and the
+community's peace felt his determination, but no one was more ready to
+pardon the humbled and restore to them the full privileges of
+citizenship. In matters of diplomacy and difficult correspondence,
+including delicate foreign relations, he was tactful yet insistent upon
+principle, defending with a keen sense of justice the honor of the
+colonial state. Conventional courtesies did not deceive him, where
+opposition lay concealed; yet he modestly disowned sincere and merited
+praise when he considered it unwarranted. Scrupulous not to exceed his
+prerogatives, he was ready to surrender what some in his place would
+have thought their proper rights. In a word, he did not hold his office
+anxiously. To him it was not a prize, a dear object for ambition to gain
+and shrewd policy to perpetuate, even when the Plymouth Colony grew in
+size and dignity. He mentions his first election only, in particular,
+adding "once for all," that he was returned "sundry years together."
+
+There was indeed need for strength and calmness; and the unfailing
+fortitude, coupled with a cool, clear foresight, gave assurance to the
+people alike during sudden but transient alarms and prolonged periods of
+impending disaster. Thus their confidence was not disappointed, but was
+strengthened with every fresh proof. Others had the same high spirit,
+for it was a noble democracy; but in all such situations courageous
+leadership cannot fail to have a steadying effect upon the body politic.
+America did not outgrow this need, and this benefit, in the later days
+of Washington and Lincoln. It is not at all strange that in the
+formative, we may say experimental years of New England, an
+unpretentious but wise and kind administration should have been
+gratefully appreciated and sustained, by the popular suffrage annually
+accorded.
+
+As an instance of Bradford's repeated defense of the Colony in its
+course of action, this letter may suffice, which was addressed to Weston
+in answer to the latter's complaint that the Mayflower carried a light
+return cargo of pelts:
+
+"S^r: Your large letter writen to M^r. Carver, and dated y^e 6. of July,
+1621, I have received y^e 10. of Novemb^r, wherin (after y^e apologie
+made for your selfe) you lay many heavie imputations upon him and us
+all. Touching him, he is departed this life, and now is at rest in y^e
+Lord from all those troubls and incoumbrances with which we are yet to
+strive. He needs not my appologie; for his care and pains was so great
+for y^e commone good, both ours and yours, as that therwith (it is
+thought) he oppressed him selfe and shortened his days; of whose loss we
+cannot sufficiently camplaine. At great charges in this adventure, I
+confess you have beene, and many losses may sustaine; but y^e loss of
+his and many other honest and industrious mens lives, cannot be vallewed
+at any prise. Of y^e one, ther may be hope of recovery, but y^e other no
+recompence can make good. But I will not insiste in generalls, but come
+more perticulerly to y^e things them selves. You greatly blame us for
+keping y^e ship so long in y^e countrie, and then to send her away
+emptie. She lay 5. weks at Cap-Codd whilst with many a weary step (after
+a long journey) and the indurance of many a hard brunte, we sought out
+in the foule winter a place of habitation. Then we went in so tedious a
+time to make provission to sheelter us and our goods, about w^{ch}
+labour, many of our armes & leggs can tell us to this day we were not
+necligent. But it pleased God to vissite us then, with death dayly, and
+with so generall a disease, that the living were scarce able to burie
+the dead; and y^e well not in any measure sufficiente to tend y^e sick.
+And now to be so greatly blamed, for not fraighting y^e ship, doth
+indeed goe near us, and much discourage us. But you say you know we will
+pretend weaknes; and doe you think we had not cause? Yes, you tell us
+you beleeve it, but it was more weaknes of judgmente, then of hands. Our
+weaknes herin is great we confess, therfore we will bear this check
+patiently amongst y^e rest, till God send us wiser men. But they which
+tould you we spent so much time in discoursing & consulting, &c., their
+harts can tell their toungs, they lye. They cared not, so they might
+salve their owne sores, how they wounded others."
+
+Two problems quickly confronted the new chief magistrate, and they were
+surely serious enough: the problem of a bare subsistence, and of
+defense against hostile invasion by the natives.
+
+New Plymouth was not new as a plantation. This was the site of the
+Indian village of Patuxet, whose occupants had worked its somewhat
+restricted area of tillage, until about four years previously, when they
+and other settlements of the aborigines were desolated by plague. A
+survivor of these Patuxets, Tisquantum or Squanto, showed himself to the
+Englishmen, and became their valued friend and helper. Doubtless glad to
+return to his old home, he instructed the colonists in the cultivation
+of the maize, or Indian corn, an indigenous American product which has
+become appreciated over the world wherever it thrives. It was the
+Pilgrims' dependence, and a staple article of trade. The wheat and peas
+they brought with them failed, and without the corn, threatening
+starvation must soon have closed their career. As it was, during the
+first two years they had a veritable battle for existence. Though
+distemper did not return to them after the horrors of the first winter,
+they became emaciated under reduced rations; but regulations in severity
+here were merciful, saving the Colony from annihilation, from one
+planting time to another.
+
+Squanto lightened this task of the authorities by his lessons in hunting
+venison, snaring rabbits, catching wild fowl, and fishing, especially
+during the yearly herring run in the town brook up to the lovely pond
+called Billington Sea because its discoverer, young Francis Billington
+mistook it for a salt inlet.
+
+Also the faithful shallop was in constant use by successive parties, who
+went out into the bay and came not back without a haul of lobsters, cod,
+or other fish, though at first they were poorly provided with deep-sea
+tackle and proper nets. Clams afforded a further help, the people
+treading and digging the flats at low tide, while eels and crabs
+supplemented this. They were grateful for these means of nourishment
+from sea and shore, preventing their extinction; yet such could not
+suffice for permanent living.
+
+Bradford did all in his power to relieve the shortage of food supply.
+Little could be procured from abroad, and in the case of a visiting
+ship, the captain's price was cruelly prohibitive. A generous captain of
+different character, in a fishing fleet to the north, persuaded his
+fellows to spare from their own allowance enough to load the Pilgrim
+boat. But the most of the required amount of corn was obtained by
+bartering various utensils and beads with the Indians, though their
+natural improvidence usually left them without much of a surplus in
+crops. In trading expeditions by land and water, Standish and Bradford
+were both active. And each of them at times was alone, of white men,
+among the natives. Bradford once left a boat and walked fifty miles
+back to Plymouth from the south, for the friendly neighboring tribes
+were not long in discovering his inherent gentleness and fairness.
+
+But firm discipline was necessary in times of dire need. A few
+unreliable persons had become mixed in the original company, and
+colonists new or old were punished by flogging, for the theft of corn,
+some of which was occasionally abstracted even before it was ripe.
+Bradford's appreciative quotation of Seneca's fine affirmation, that a
+man is free who has control of his stomach, in this near famine would
+seem to apply where self-denial meant malnutrition, to prevent
+starvation.
+
+Weakness and numerical smallness hindered the cultivation of the soil,
+and the climax was a severe drouth from the last of May, 1623, till
+about the middle of July, when the stalks nearly perished in the
+excessive heat. A day of prayer was appointed, in which the Pilgrims
+engaged earnestly for eight or nine hours, until a general cloudiness
+overspread the sky. This was followed that night by a gentle shower,
+which was renewed again and again, with intervals of sunshine,
+throughout a fortnight. The planting was saved, to the astonishment of
+the Indians and the deep gratitude of the Christian community. Famine
+fled for ever. And as the spared crop matured, a Day of Thanksgiving was
+ordered by the Governor and concurring Council, a season which has been
+observed annually ever since, and finally throughout the nation.
+
+Bradford did not show favor to the industrial policy of holding all
+things in common, which was at first attempted and which, because of its
+early apostolic connection, was supposed to be under divine sanction. If
+he tolerated the idea at first, he gives no sign of approval; and when
+it was abandoned he observed: "The experience that was had in this
+comone course and condition, tried sundrie years, and that amongst godly
+and sober men, may well evince the vanitie of that conceite of Plato &
+other ancients, applauded by some of later times; that y^e taking away
+of propertie, and bringing in comunitie into a comone wealth, would make
+them happy and flourishing; as if they were wiser then God."
+
+This farsighted judgment applied equally to the communistic concept of
+that time and the present idea of a short working day, a living wage
+whether earned or not, and an absolute democratic control over all
+individual rights, which is the perversion of civil liberty, and more
+potent than despotism because imposed by a multitude.
+
+Under private ownership of land, which superseded the common stock plan,
+there was better incentive to toil, and the Governor with pleasure
+observed that even the women and children went willingly afield.
+Assignments came to be made of one acre to a family, near the palisaded
+hamlet for convenience and better security. But on petition of the
+planters, Bradford directed that the allotments should be for continuous
+use, rather than for one year as heretofore. This encouraged those who
+had achieved good success on their area, to go forward still in their
+agricultural accomplishments. They raised the more, as soon as numbers
+and strength allowed, because they found a corn market among the
+half-hundred fishing vessels which annually visited the northern coasts.
+
+The story is familiar, how the distressed new-comers at first smoothed
+the graves of their plague-smitten members, to hide the number of deaths
+from the savages, whose derisive shouts from the forests mingled with
+their lamentations. But this local Indian menace was comparatively
+slight. All the Cape Indians, including those whom the Pilgrim explorers
+had unintentionally aroused, became before long their permanent good
+neighbors. This desirable outcome was facilitated by a singular
+circumstance, the roaming of a boy who lost his way. John Billington,
+Jr., wandered in the woods until the Cummaquid Indians found him twenty
+miles down the coast. They carried him farther, to the Nausets, the very
+tribe of the first encounter. Bradford sent notice of the missing lad to
+Massasoit, who inquired for him among his subjects. On ascertaining his
+whereabouts, ten colonists and two interpreters were dispatched in the
+shallop to Nauset, who received the boy bead-laden and well, and held a
+friendly parley with Chief Aspinet and his men. These natives forwarded
+peace delegates to Plymouth, a course not actually required but
+acceptable after their conflict of 1620.
+
+The whole region of Plymouth was offered free and empty to the white
+men, through the ravages of previous pestilence. This providential
+visitation extended as far west as the confines of Narragansett Bay in
+present Rhode Island, depleting the population where it did not wholly
+destroy. And further, these Pokanokets, the Sunrise tribes in a
+confederacy under Massasoit, were the more willing to heed their lord's
+pacific injunctions concerning the English, because they themselves in
+their weakened condition were threatened with invasion and conquest by
+the powerful Narragansetts. Self-preservation, as well as commercial
+advantage, prompted the never broken treaty made that spring. It was an
+idea mutually welcome, a most happy plan for both afflicted parties.
+Only one chief, Corbitant in the Taunton valley, was displeased and
+jealous, and threatened trouble; but a prompt expedition to the interior
+frightened him away back home. He sued for favor through Massasoit, and
+affixed his mark below those of eight other chiefs, in a covenant of
+loyalty to King James across "the big water."
+
+The Rhode Island Indians were irritated by this unprecedented alliance
+of natives with foreigners, and knowing the English losses they sent the
+famous rattlesnake skin with its challenging arrows, to Plymouth. But
+its speedy return filled with powder and balls and accompanied by a
+friendly but warning message, punctured their pride and put for a while
+a complete quietus on their warlike aspirations.
+
+The most serious peril arose in 1623, from the populous Massachusetts
+tribes along the northern bay which, with the later state, adopted their
+name. These were never over-friendly, and the later Salem and Boston
+colonists found their own numerical strength was a needed preventive of
+further native hostilities after the first had been suppressed. The
+wrath of the red northerners was fanned into fury by the wicked and
+abusive conduct of sixty Wessagusset settlers, a worthless and
+improvident lot which Thomas Weston imposed upon Plymouth in the time of
+scarcity, until they went up the coast by themselves. Even then
+Standish, and later Bradford, took command of their pinnace the Swan in
+attempts to procure corn for distribution in both colonies; and the
+efficient Squanto died in one of these voyages, despite tender nursing
+by the Governor.
+
+But the Wessagusset men repaid the terribly taxed hospitality and
+courtesy of the Pilgrims by attempted thefts of corn and insolent
+demeanor while at Plymouth; then they provoked their heathen neighbors,
+with whom they competed in bad behavior; and finally their remnant
+accepted the guidance of Myles Standish to the fishing fleet off the
+Maine coast, whence they returned to England for the good of America.
+
+It was in situations like these that the coolness of the Governor
+greatly helped to prevent the note of dismay, for the exasperated
+Massachusetts, in hope of exterminating every foreigner, sent far and
+near for concerted action of all tribes, and many joined in the
+conspiracy. In view of an uprising so wide-spread, it was natural that
+some in the little Colony should feel apprehensive, for the peril of
+extinction was real. Approximately between twenty-five and fifty
+thousand Indians occupied New England. Supported by limited artillery
+and musketry, the wooden palisade was hardly adequate against the
+firebrands, hatchets and arrows of bloodthirsty swarming thousands; yet
+it never came to the test. This is less surprising when we recall the
+fact that, in addition to showing an almost complete lack of
+organization, all the Atlantic coast natives were numerically weaker and
+socially inferior to the inland tribes. White immigrants to the Old
+Colony found them especially weak there; and in Patuxet, or Plymouth,
+they were extinct, except for friendly Squanto.
+
+At this time the people revealed their trust in Bradford's judgment by
+leaving him to decide what measures should be taken in a crisis so
+acute, of which he informed them on the annual court day. Captain
+Standish was sent to Wessagusset, with only eight men, as more would
+excite suspicion; and they equipped the shallop for trading. But one day
+when two ringleaders and a couple of followers were in a hut with the
+whites, Standish gave the word, the door was shut and a struggle ensued,
+three red men being soon cut down, fighting to the last, while a fourth
+was taken alive and afterward hung. Three more warriors in the
+neighborhood were killed. This summary execution of only seven persons
+quickly prepared the way for finishing the disagreeable but necessary
+business without that further and abundant bloodshed, which would
+inevitably have ensued but for this stern action. A force of Indians who
+hastened to the scene were turned to flight without loss after a few
+shots, and the heart of opposition failed. The sudden collapse of
+warfare so carefully planned, is explained not only by the loose
+organization of those rude folk among themselves, but by the fact, as
+often in ancient history, that dependence upon leaders was extremely
+strong, and the fall of a hero caused consternation and despair. Also
+the terror of Standish, with his decisiveness and daring, was universal
+among all disaffected natives, who regarded him as invulnerable, for he
+had repeatedly escaped the plots of intending assassins; and he
+surprised his foes by his quick penetration of their deadly designs
+though covered by amicable professions.
+
+This perception of sinister purposes was also well developed in
+Bradford, as the following instance will show, though out of
+chronological order; and it was well for the Colony that both men
+possessed such a faculty, the impetuous Captain and amiable Governor,
+who in their respective dispositions may fairly be compared with
+Christ's leading disciples, Peter and John. When the Massachusetts Bay
+Colony was at its full inception in 1630, there appeared the greatest
+threat of native opposition up to that time, considering its extent. It
+aimed at the annihilation of all New England settlements, north and
+south along the coast where they had obtained, or were securing, a firm
+footing. The older community was to be attended to first.
+
+The scheme was to request another grand sporting festival at Plymouth,
+natives and whites together, such as had been allowed to Massasoit and
+his men in 1621, the year of the treaty. Though this pleasant precedent
+was shrewdly cited with all openness and apparent amity, Bradford
+refused the petition. Then the red men, realizing that they were
+understood, declared wrathfully and with unwonted boldness, "If we may
+not come with leave, we will come without."
+
+They rallied near Charlestown, whose people were also warned by their
+constant native friend, Sagamore John. Therefore the English, including
+women and children, hastily erected earthworks and built a small fort on
+top of the town hill. But the slightly older settlement of Salem made
+use of what cannon it possessed, and the booming reverberations struck
+such panic in the dusky breasts, that they immediately abandoned their
+campaign, although, as later in New England's interior, it might, if
+once started, have proved no farce even against explosive weapons. Thus
+ended the troubles with aborigines of martial mind in William Bradford's
+time.
+
+Within a year, lacking one day, after the Mayflower had cast anchor in
+Provincetown harbor, the Fortune had brought an accession of thirty-five
+souls, mostly men, who replaced the male losses of the first winter.
+They were somewhat heedless youth, with more of adventurous ardor than
+judgment, yet such as could be controlled, and useful in the shortage of
+masculine muscle and total absence of horses and oxen. They stood ready
+for work or warfare, in those uncertain years before colonial
+establishment. Then, just after the drouth of 1623, the Anne and the
+Little James arrived in August with sixty persons, some of whom,
+however, proved so undesirable that the Colony, financially burdened
+though it was, willingly sent them back at its own charge. The most of
+them, both Separatists and others, were very worthy and welcome; and
+they included women and children, who had been left behind until they
+could expect an assured settlement to occupy. Elder Brewster received
+his two daughters, Doctor Samuel Fuller and Francis Cooke rejoiced to
+greet their wives, and there were brides to be.
+
+Besides these sixty, certain prospective planters were accepted who did
+not wish to join Plymouth's colonial organization bound in partnership
+with the company in England. Specifications regarding them were drawn
+up, and mutually agreed upon. The opening article was thus generous in
+its spirit:
+
+"First, that y^e Gov^r, in y^e name and with y^e consente of y^e
+company, doth in all love and frendship receive and imbrace them; and is
+to allote them competente places for habitations within y^e towne. And
+promiseth to shew them all such other curtesies as shall be reasonable
+for them to desire, or us to performe."
+
+A letter came with these ships, from the general company in England,
+subscribed by thirteen names representing those who in that body were
+friendly toward the Pilgrims and were sending them this accession of
+people. The missive concluded in this tenor of sympathy and
+encouragement, which doubtless did the recipients much good:
+
+"Let it not be greeveous unto you y^t you have been instruments to
+breake y^e ise for others who come after with less difficulty, the
+honour shall be yours to y^e worlds end....
+
+"We bear you always in our brests, and our harty affection is towards
+you all, as are y^e harts of hundreds more which never saw your faces,
+who doubtles pray for your saftie as their owne, as we our selves both
+doe & ever shall, that y^e same God which hath so marvelously preserved
+from seas, foes, and famine, will still preserve you from all future
+dangers, and make you honourable amongst men, and glorious in blise at
+y^e last day. And so y^e Lord be with you all & send us joyfull news
+from you, and inable us with one shoulder so to accomplish & perfecte
+this worke, as much glorie may come to Him y^t confoundeth y^e mighty by
+the weak, and maketh small thinges great. To whose greatnes, be all
+glorie for ever & ever."
+
+Edward Winslow was appointed to return with the Anne, for the procuring
+of needed supplies and especially to report the truth about the Colony,
+whose enemies had maligned it. This gifted and honorable man rendered a
+valuable service to Plymouth at that day, and to posterity ever since,
+by his detailed journal of events to that time, entitled Good Newes from
+New-England. He and Bradford, unnamed, had previously prepared a Journal
+of the Plantation through June of the first full year, which was printed
+in 1622. That and the longer account were embodied in "Purchas his
+Pilgrims" in 1625.
+
+In the feminine contingent of these latest arrivals, there appeared one
+who was to share her life for thirty-three years with the Governor of
+the Old Colony. She was previously well acquainted with him, and born
+in the same year. Alice Carpenter was the widow of Edward Southworth a
+descendant of Sir Gilbert Southworth, knight of Lancaster. When a maiden
+of seventeen, she had cast in her lot with the Puritans and lived a
+while as an exile in Holland, with her father. She became a woman of
+devout mind and great force of character.
+
+Alice must often have seen William Bradford in the Separatist community
+at Leyden. And in her widowhood, two years after the tragic decease of
+Dorothy May Bradford, she received with favor his suit for marriage,
+which was happily consummated at Plymouth on August fourteen, Old Style.
+
+She brought over considerable property with her. Dorothy Bradford's son
+John, a lad under seven then, did not come till a few years later. He
+himself though married died childless, after threescore years of life;
+and he was given the position of Deputy to the General Court, before his
+father passed away. He received a house and land from a paternal will.
+
+Goodwife Southworth's own sons Thomas and Constant Southworth rejoined
+her within seven years, meeting their half-brothers, the Plymouth family
+having then been blessed with three little ones, William, Mercy and
+Joseph. The Bradford household, of parents and children, therefore
+comprised eight persons, residing in the Governor's assigned homestead
+at the south-west corner of the square in the intersection of the two
+main streets.
+
+Mrs. Bradford engaged earnestly and long in labors for the young people
+at Plymouth.
+
+Though she survived her life-partner by nearly thirteen years, he had
+the joy of knowing some of the fifteen children of his son and namesake
+William, the Deputy Governor and Major, and several of his other son
+Joseph's seven children. His only daughter, Mercy, married and was
+living in 1650. The grandmother's name was repeated in Alice, daughter
+of William Junior.
+
+Following a long debility, on April 5, 1670, shortly before the dark
+days of King Philip's war, the Governor's consort closed, at her home of
+peace, her course of almost fourscore years; and a relative, Nathaniel
+Morton, Secretary of Plymouth Colony, writing verses which are copied on
+the first original leaf of Bradford's History, "Upon the life and death
+of that godly matron Mistris Alice Bradford," said of her that after the
+obsequies of her husband,
+
+    "E'r since that time in widdowhood shee hath
+    Lived a life in holynes and faith
+    In reading of God's word and contemplation."
+
+
+
+
+IV
+
+THE GOVERNOR: LATER ADMINISTRATION
+
+    _In thanking God for the mercies extended to us in the past, we
+    beseech Him that He may not withhold them in the future, and
+    that our hearts may be roused to war steadfastly for good and
+    against all the forces of evil, public and private. We pray for
+    strength and light, so that in the coming days we may with
+    cleanliness, fearlessness and wisdom do our allotted work on the
+    earth._
+
+        THEODORE N. ROOSEVELT,
+        _in National Thanksgiving Proclamation_.
+
+    _It is much better to keepe a good conscience and have y^e
+    Lord's blessing, whether in life or death._
+
+        WILLIAM BRADFORD.
+
+
+As Plymouth's third summer displayed its saved harvest which, with a
+fresh food supply from the Anne, promised enough by prudent management
+for the increased Colony, a sense of security and content was justified.
+The new-comers, who had wept to see the founders' leanness and scanty
+clothing, were glad to help as they could, and consoled their much tried
+spirits in the reunited and new families. The lingering experimental
+stage had passed. Establishment was in sight. With only a few
+exceptions, every settler had done his part and would continue to do so,
+toiling for the general good as for his private welfare. The Governor
+performed his share of responsibility, as he had willingly taken his
+equal portion in the emergency restrictions. He would not himself avoid
+in any degree what he had been obliged to impose upon others. And in
+appreciation of his true democratic feeling they cordially co-operated
+with him, and were pleased to support him still as their civil head. But
+an external authority was to try the genuine quality of his humility;
+and well it stood this test.
+
+The Council for New England, seated in old England, could not long
+direct affairs at that distance, as only a body subject to the British
+government and usually having no electoral voice abroad; but before its
+early expiration it assumed at one time to do more than the Crown itself
+cared to undertake for Plymouth, which was never of marked political
+importance to the realm. This ephemeral Council superseded the
+colonists' head by the appointment of a Governor General of New England,
+Captain Robert Gorges, son of Sir Ferdinando the famous promoter of
+provincial territory. On his advisory board was Admiral Francis West,
+who had unsuccessfully served a monopoly seeking exclusive control of
+the New England fishing grounds, and one William Bradford, resident in
+New Plymouth and generously accorded this favor "for the time being," a
+copy of his superior's commission being delivered to him. The Pilgrim
+leader not only accepted the situation, as his duty was, but did so with
+good grace, providing for the entertainment of Gorges and his
+considerable company during a fortnight after their arrival in
+September, an act of hospitality which was acknowledged with thanks.
+
+With the new dignitary were families intended to replace, at
+Wessagusset, now Weymouth, those who had been there long enough to
+provoke the natives into the insurrection against all whites.
+
+Before they sailed up the coast, Thomas Weston also came into port, just
+at the wrong juncture for him. All his fraudulent villainy was charged
+against him by Robert Gorges, including the wrongs done to the latter's
+distinguished father. Bradford here displayed his forgiving spirit by
+interceding in behalf of Weston, though he himself and all Plymouth had
+suffered because of his actions. Clemency being obtained, Weston thought
+himself free and, instead of showing gratitude, indulged in the spiteful
+expressions so congenial to his nature. Thereupon Gorges in righteous
+wrath vowed he would either curb or banish him; and he would have done
+so had not Bradford, secretly entreated by the wretch, again procured
+his release with much difficulty. This and other favors granted to him,
+when in dire straits or personal peril, were ignored by Weston, who
+from a safe distance still proved his inherent depravity by reviling the
+Pilgrims.
+
+A single American winter sufficed for Gorges and the bulk of the
+Wessagusset colony. Relinquishing his magisterial powers, necessity
+compelled him to return home before spring, accompanied by some of his
+people. Others were carried to Virginia, only a few remaining in
+Weymouth. Thus quickly terminated the assumption of external, delegated
+authority at Plymouth as a separate Colony, the British government being
+usually content to grant, though unofficially and by sufferance, its
+autonomy, even to the choice of its chief executive, which was not the
+case at Massachusetts Bay.
+
+In an opportune time when opposition among the English patrons was
+developing against the New England Separatists, Winslow did his part
+well in defending, abroad, the Colony from its unfriendly critics, who
+had misrepresented it from the time of the Mayflower's return with her
+rough, profane crew, to the reprobate malcontents who had to be
+deported. And now, when the Charity went back in which Winslow had
+returned, having left her cargo of necessities such as much needed
+clothing and cattle for breeding, she conveyed home specific answers by
+the Governor, to a dozen baseless criticisms. Two are cited, in the
+loose orthography of the day. Variable spelling was no sure sign of
+illiteracy then, as with Bradford and contemporary writers of good
+thought and dignified style.
+
+Thus he meets the leading calumny, as to "diversitie about Religion:"
+
+"We know no such matter, for here was never any controversie or
+opposition, either publicke or private, (to our knowledg,) since we
+came."
+
+The last objection designed to injure Plymouth was this: "The people are
+much anoyed with muskeetoes.
+
+"Ans: They are too delicate and unfitte to begin new-plantations and
+collonies, that cannot enduer the biting of a muskeeto; we would wish
+such to keepe at home till at least they be muskeeto proofe. Yet this
+place is as free as any, and experience teacheth that y^e more y^e land
+is tild, and y^e woods cut downe, the fewer ther will be, and in the end
+scarce any at all."
+
+Bradford prepared this clear and direct rejoinder to the unjust charges,
+at the urgent request of the planters' foreign agent. And the unexpected
+defense "did so confound y^e objecters, as some confessed their falte,
+and others deneyed what they had said, and eate their words, & some
+others of them have since come over againe and heere lived to convince
+them selves sufficiently, both in their owne & other mens judgments."
+
+The Governor further justified Plymouth's course by a series of replies,
+which became useful locally and for posterity, but were not sent
+abroad, as the letters of complaint were intercepted and seized. He had
+now to cope with internal revolt, headed by John Lyford and John Oldham.
+Lyford was an exceedingly disreputable and discredited clergyman of the
+Established Church who, like Morell of Wessagusset previously, had been
+sent in hope of superseding Elder Brewster and breaking up the much
+disliked Separatist order in New England. Morell had perceived the
+strength of the Pilgrim fellowship, and was wise enough to make no vain
+attempt to subvert its order, only daring to mention, on leaving the
+country, the ecclesiastical authority with which he had been invested.
+His successor, in this dark scheme of foreign persecution, sought with
+serpentine cleverness to ingratiate himself; but his effusive servility
+nauseated those sterling souls. As Bradford graphically recorded, "when
+this man first came a shore, he saluted them with that reverence &
+humilitie as is seldome to be seen, and indeed made them ashamed, he so
+bowed and cringed unto them, and would have kissed their hands if they
+would have suffered him; yea, he wept & shed many tears, blessing God
+that had brought him to see their faces; and admiring y^e things they
+had done in their wants, &c. as if he had been made all of love, and y^e
+humblest person in y^e world."
+
+Nevertheless, not knowing his reprobate nature, they gave the clerical
+the best entertainment they could, a larger allowance from the stored
+food than any other had, and, "as the Gov^r had used in all waightie
+affairs to consulte with their Elder, Mr. Brewster, (togeither with his
+assistants,) so now he caled Mr. Liford also to counsell with them in
+their waightiest bussineses." Soon he desired admission to the church,
+and was received, confessing that his conscience had been troubled by
+much wrong doing, and professing gratitude for "this opportunity of
+freedom and liberty to enjoy the ordinances of God in purity among his
+people."
+
+Oldham also, who had been a malcontent and evil informant to parties
+abroad, now, to quote again the magisterial historian, "tooke occasion
+to open his minds to some of y^e cheefe amongst them heere, and
+confessed he had done them wrong both by word & deed, & writing into
+England; but he now saw the eminente hand of God to be with them, and
+his blesing upon them, which made his hart smite him, neither should
+those in England ever use him as an instrumente any longer against them
+in any thing; he also desired former things might be forgotten, and that
+they would looke upon him as one that desired to close with them in all
+things, with such like expressions. Now whether this was in hipocrisie,
+or out of some sudden pang of conviction (which I rather thinke), God
+only knows. Upon it they show all readynes to imbrace his love, and
+carry towards him in all frendlyness, and called him to counsell with
+them in all cheefe affairs, as y^e other, without any distrust at all."
+
+Thus generous and patient was the Governor and his Pilgrim comrades.
+They were ready to let a man make amends for his misdeeds. But very soon
+Bradford had opportunity to show that he had discretion as well as
+mercy.
+
+Lyford saw no prospect of his becoming the "spiritual" head at Plymouth,
+although by his encouragement some of the Merchant Adventurers in
+England succeeded in still keeping the Pilgrims' true pastor from coming
+to his own, as he desired to do, writing to them concerning his
+unwilling absence. They even pleaded lack of funds to transport him and
+Mrs. Robinson, though they could send Lyford with his numerous family.
+This man and Oldham secretly lapsed back into their congenial ways, and
+they busied themselves in efforts to stir up discontent and sedition,
+among those who had been generously allowed residence at Plymouth
+without assuming the colonial foreign obligations. There were stealthy
+gatherings and whisperings, which the government discovered. There was
+industrious writing of letters intended for English consumption.
+
+As the mail carrier sailed, the Governor and several others accompanied
+her in the shallop until well out, when he called for all the letters of
+Lyford and Oldham. The ship master, knowing the evil conduct of those
+men on both sides of the sea, cheerfully co-operated, finding over a
+score of vicious epistles, many of them bulky, and full of slanders
+sufficient to ruin the reputation of the Colony if believed.
+
+At night the Governor returned and nothing was said, the uneasy
+malcontents concluding Bradford had gone with messages of his own.
+Instead of this, he waited to see what their intentions were, and who
+were their adherents, particularly as one of the intercepted letters
+promised a change in church and state, and that they would bring this
+about soon after the ship's sailing. Therefore, mistaking the Governor's
+caution for timidity, without notifying him or the Elder they presumed
+to call a meeting of the conspirators, on a certain Sunday.
+
+This was what Bradford had been waiting for, to know the disloyal
+constituency. Swiftly he acted now, summoning the whole company to
+court. They were urged to state, frankly and fully, all their
+grievances, in the open and proper manner; but they had nothing to say,
+and stoutly denied the charges laid against them. Their letters being
+produced, Lyford was struck dumb; but Oldham began to rage, affecting
+righteous wrath over the interference with his mail. He called upon his
+supposed sympathizers to have courage and stand forth, but none of them
+spoke or moved. The Governor explained to the people the necessity of
+suppressing mutinous missives; and the assembly was shocked at the
+produced evidence, of seditious plotting in return for uniform
+kindness. The weak and variable Lyford, when some of his voluminous
+writing was read, suddenly gave way to copious tears, cursing himself
+and confessing everything, declaring that his actions were the result of
+his pride, vainglory and self-love, though he involved Billington and
+others who at once grew emphatic in denial.
+
+By way of illustration, and to show the breadth of the colonial policy,
+the first two charges, and their refutations, are here given.
+
+"1. First, he saith, the church would have none to live hear but them
+selves. 2'y. Neither are any willing so to doe if they had company to
+live elsewher.
+
+"Ans: Their answer was, that this was false, in both y^e parts of it;
+for they were willing & desirous y^t any honest men may live with them,
+that will cary them selves peacably, and seek y^e comone good, or at
+least doe them no hurte. And again, ther are many that will not live els
+wher so long as they may live with them.
+
+"2. That if ther come over any honest men that are not of y^e
+seperation, they will quickly distast them, &c.
+
+"A. Ther answer was as before, that it was a false callumniation, for
+they had many amongst them that they liked well of, and were glad of
+their company; and should be of any such like that should come amongst
+them."
+
+Sentence of banishment was imposed upon the miserable men, but Lyford's
+time was extended to six months more at Plymouth in the vain hope that
+his punishment might be commuted on good behavior. Elder Brewster
+especially entreated for him, though this strange pulpit aspirant had
+hoped to supplant him. The clerical renegade's contrition began to cool
+in a few weeks, and he penned in great secrecy a letter to his backers
+abroad, which however was brought to the Governor, and all its charges
+answered in writing. In consequence, there was a revulsion of feeling on
+the part of certain formerly disaffected ones, who now so loathed these
+traitorous deeds that their own loyalty was toned up. The Colony was rid
+of such experts in duplicity, though Oldham rashly returned next spring,
+and became so defiant and abusive that he was first put under guard,
+then led away to a boat between files of musketeers who were ordered to
+strike him with the butts of their guns. Yet afterward in a fearful
+storm he confessed his wickedness and vowed that if spared he would do
+right. Delivered from drowning, he kept his word, proved his genuine
+good will, and behaved himself so well that eventually he had liberty to
+visit Plymouth when he would. In all these things the toleration of the
+chief magistrate and his associates, where toleration was possible,
+appears marvellous, though they were firm in protecting their essential
+rights and maintaining the colonial integrity.
+
+But the English supporters of the unsuccessful revolution, vexed at the
+ministerial traitor's expulsion, dissolved their company as then
+composed, broke with the Colony and thenceforth withheld their help.
+Also some of them, not content with this, manned a vessel on their own
+account, and dispatched it ahead of any others to Cape Ann on the north
+shore, where Plymouth had established a fishing station. This expedition
+seized the stage and necessary supplies for the Cape Ann industry, and
+threatened to fight for their possession. Hereupon Bradford sent men to
+defend their authority, and help build a new drying stage; but those who
+were left in charge conducted the business so unsuccessfully that it was
+finally abandoned.
+
+The Governor was now relieved from the chain of crises which had
+threatened to overthrow the Colony from its beginning. In the fourth
+year he found himself at the head of about one hundred and eighty
+people, including approximately a score of persons not in the trading
+company, together occupying thirty-two dwellings within the stockade. By
+the tenth year, 1630, Plymouth had grown to about three hundred
+inhabitants.
+
+When the Merchant Adventurers had failed in their scheme to break up the
+Pilgrim order in America as in England, and so as a body had deserted
+Plymouth, four of their former company showed their own faithfulness by
+sending in 1625, on their own account, more cattle and clothing. In
+their accompanying letter, they subscribed themselves, over mere
+initials, "your assured freinds to our powers." The following extract
+reveals their desire to impart cheer, as well as good things, to the
+distant toilers, in whom they also felt confidence.
+
+"Let us all indeavor to keep a faire & honest course, and see what time
+will bring forth, and how God in his providence will worke for us. We
+still are perswaded you are y^e people that must make a plantation in
+those remoate places when all others faile and returne. And your
+experience of Gods providence and preservation of you is such as we hope
+your harts will not faile you, though your friends should forsake you
+(which we our selves will not doe whilst we live, so long as your
+honestie so well appereth).... Goe on, good friends, comfortably, pluck
+up your spirits, and quitte your selves like men in all your
+difficulties, that notwithstanding all displeasure and threats of men,
+yet y^e work may goe on you are aboute, and not be neglected."
+
+Myles Standish was sent over in hope of persuading the Merchant
+Adventurers to hold together, with the aid also of the nominally ruling
+Council for New England. But his earnest efforts met with only partial
+success, in a time of industrial depression prevalent on account of the
+fearful pestilence there, together with an uncertain political situation
+embarrassed by rumors of war with France. Nevertheless Bradford
+recorded for Plymouth, that "in y^e mean time, it pleased the Lord to
+give y^e plantation peace and health and contented minds, and so to
+blese their labours, as they had corn sufficient, (and some to spare to
+others,) with other foode; neither ever had they any supply of foode but
+what they first brought with them." He had previously spoken of the
+provisions brought by the sixty in 1623, but they retained them for
+their own use, and had no more than what they carried over with them.
+
+After Captain Standish returned from abroad, however, their peace of
+mind was sorely tested. They learned that their loved pastor, Mr.
+Robinson, could no more hope to rejoin them, for he had passed away, as
+also had their capable agent Robert Cushman, who expected soon to come
+to them. The efficient Sherley was seriously ill, whose initials had led
+in the joint letter of encouragement the year before. Many of their
+friends in Leyden likewise were dying, while others lamented that they
+could not leave Holland for New England. King James too had died, and
+Charles now reigned. Considering all these important changes, the
+Governor writes again:
+
+"To looke humanly on y^e state of things as they presented them selves
+at this time, it is a marvell it did not wholy discourage them, and
+sinck them. But they gathered up their spirits, and y^e Lord so helped
+them, whose worke they had in hand, as now when they were at lowest
+they begane to rise againe, and being striped (in a maner) of all human
+helps and hops, he brought things aboute other wise, in his devine
+providence, as they were not only upheld & sustained, but their
+proceedings both honoured and imitated by others."
+
+They went resolutely to work anew, giving their attention to planting
+and trading. Bradford and Winslow proceeded by boat, with several hands,
+to Monhegan Island in Maine, where an attempted plantation was about to
+give up and sell out their trading stock. A good supply of articles
+being procured, a number of debts were cleared away in consequence, and
+clothing bought for those who still needed it. Little by little their
+wants were being met, and actual discomfort prevented.
+
+Also Isaac Allerton was commissioned to go to England the same year
+Myles Standish came back, and with the assistance of friends over there,
+a formal agreement satisfactory to the colonists was drawn up and
+subscribed by forty-two Merchant Adventurers. Thereupon in 1627 Bradford
+and six or seven other leading citizens ran a large venture and made
+themselves personally responsible for the eventual purchase, by them and
+their partners, of the revived English company's interest in the Colony,
+amounting to eighteen hundred pounds, of which two hundred were to be
+paid annually at the Royal Exchange in London. Next year, 1628, the
+transaction was fully confirmed, with the best legal counsel available;
+and the first instalment was paid. This gradual settlement was completed
+three years ahead of time, with the help of a large quantity of beaver
+skins.
+
+Yet it was ten years beyond the expiration of those creditors' time
+limit of nine years before the Colony was finally free from heavy
+indebtedness to other parties in England, so making a financial struggle
+of a quarter of a century from the landing of the Pilgrims. To the
+lasting wonder of all who consider them, they exhibited alongside of
+their piety, a practical business ability and perseverance, which
+ultimately was not frustrated by reverses such as the seizure of
+consignments by national enemies, and the loan to themselves of
+absolutely necessary sums at the fearfully extortionate rate of thirty
+and even fifty per cent. An indomitable tenacity, and the endurance of
+rock, reposed in these gentle spirits.
+
+To facilitate commercial progress, Governor Bradford, Captain Standish
+and other competent men came before the body of colonists, recounted the
+weight of debt upon them, in this matter of buying out the English
+company's interest, and offered to undertake the payment of it
+themselves, instead of merely being responsible for the others; only
+they asked that they might have the trade of the Colony for six years,
+after which it was to revert to them all, who were called the
+generality. The Colony was to purchase its exemption by yearly
+delivering to this internal smaller company a specified amount of
+agricultural products.
+
+This was a hazardous responsibility for the few most concerned, none of
+whom were persons of real affluence; and yet they felt this was the only
+feasible way to push trade, unhindered by too cumbrous an organization,
+in which a number of incapable individuals, and even some less earnest,
+were sure to be found. Efficiency and resolution were certainly needed;
+for this little inner company dared to attempt, in two-thirds of the
+time granted for the full payment of the eighteen hundred pounds, not
+only the discharge of that encumbrance, but various other obligations
+devolving upon the plantation, approximating six hundred pounds, or a
+third of the other sum. It was a bold venture truly, in their still
+limited circumstances and with the loss of valuable helpers abroad:--to
+assume liabilities aggregating between two and three thousand pounds, or
+more specifically, about twelve thousand dollars in our currency.
+Insignificant enough for a well established community, the load was
+large for these straitened pioneers in an almost unbroken wilderness,
+who recently throughout several years had struggled for their very
+lives. The feebleness of their condition makes their courage colossal.
+
+Yet the Governor and his several partners in this enterprise were no
+hot-headed speculators, rashly making chimerical castles in the air, or
+busily blowing financial bubbles with foolhardy recklessness. They were
+a brainy group, and the outcome proved their judgment sober. Having by
+this time some basis of calculation, they took the long look, knew what
+they were about, and, though purposing to be as prompt as possible, were
+too cool to be in a hurry. Their sound discretion never failed; and they
+displayed that rare balance which blends quiet repose of mind with
+resistless energy.
+
+One fortunate effect of such stress of business burdens was to develop
+territorial exploitation. To fulfil their purposes, they enlarged the
+area of their industry. Southward and northward their commerce spread. A
+small pinnace was built and placed in Monumet river, emptying into
+Buzzard's Bay. This could be reached by boat from Cape Cod Bay and
+Scusset river, with some colportage overland between those two streams;
+so avoiding the dangerous peninsular circumnavigation, and marking the
+main course of the present Cape Cod Canal. Thus was opened all the lower
+coast of New England, including the populous Narragansett Bay; access
+was given to the mouth of the Connecticut River, with its fair valley
+intersecting the country; and the approach was unimpeded, through Long
+Island Sound, to the New Netherlands. Here was trading ground indeed,
+all the way to the promising harbor at the Hudson's mouth and the seat
+of the mighty metropolis to be. This southern enterprise brought
+substantial returns.
+
+Also in the north, a store house was put up on the Kennebec River, where
+Augusta, the capital city of Maine, should afterward arise. The Council
+for New England, over the signature of its president the Earl of
+Warwick, made out a patent to William Bradford, granting territory
+thirteen miles on the River, and extending fifteen miles on either side.
+Business there did so well at first, that the American debtors gained
+headway, until a disappointing agent abroad occasioned trouble by
+private competition. After carrying on trade for ten years, they leased
+the post for one-sixth of its profits, so receiving some regular income
+thence.
+
+In 1629 another Mayflower vessel brought to Plymouth thirty-five more
+Pilgrims from Leyden via the new settlement of Salem, and later a
+smaller number followed, but poorer and less capable, though worthy
+persons all. This serious matter, resulting partly from the indiscretion
+of friends, incurred an expense for transportation, new clothing and
+considerable maintenance, to the amount of over five thousand dollars in
+our money. The bulk of it was borne by several new partners in England;
+yet Plymouth's share was equivalent to a thousand dollars or a little
+more, which was never repaid to the Colony or even demanded back, and
+became a chief cause of Plymouth's indebtedness during its first quarter
+of a century. Commenting on this final extra burden from abroad,
+Bradford thus expresses his wonder "that these poor people here in a
+wilderness should, notwithstanding, be inabled in time to repay all
+these ingagments, and many more unjustly brought upon them through the
+unfaithfulness of some, and many other great losses which they
+sustained, which will be made manifest, if y^e Lord be pleased to give
+life and time. In y^e mean time, I cannot but admire his ways and workes
+towards his servants, and humbly desire to blesse his holy name for his
+great mercies hithertoo."
+
+Even more than the intricacies of financial entanglements, the
+responsibilities of diplomacy rested in large measure upon the colonial
+leader. He had to deal not only with the unsympathetic home government
+in England, but at one time with Dutch pretensions in New England, which
+emanated from Fort Manhattan on the future site of New York City.
+Perceiving clearly that they possessed a place of immense natural
+advantage, the desire of these Hollanders was enlarged, to extend their
+area, both commercially and politically, from this safe and promising
+base. They therefore sent letters to Plymouth in its seventh year, the
+year of the trading station's establishment near Buzzard's Bay on the
+south.
+
+Correspondence opened with this ample salutation as rendered in
+English:
+
+"Noble, honorable, wise and prudent Lords, the Governor and Councillors
+residing in New Plymouth, our very good friends."
+
+Bradford replied with an equally cordial tone, in which lay no lack of
+sincerity:
+
+"To the Honoured, &c.
+
+"The Gov^r & Counsell of New Plim: wisheth, &c. We have received your
+letters, &c. wherin appeareth your good wills & frendship toward us; but
+is expressed with over high titls, more than belongs to us, or is meete
+for us to receive. But for your good will, and congratulations of our
+prosperitie in these smale beginings of our pore colonie, we are much
+bound unto you, and with many thanks doe acknowledge y^e same; taking it
+both for a great honour done unto us, and for a certaine testimony of
+your love and good neighborhood."
+
+After this modest beginning of his message, one discerns in the next
+sentence, underneath its tenor of genuine amity, a deep note of well
+disguised warning, that no open question exists in the matter of mutual
+territorial relations. Thus the subordinate and latent inference is
+couched, almost like some unintended meaning which nevertheless carries
+more weight than with a studied significance; for Bradford's very
+honesty itself was his constant safety:
+
+"Now these are further to give your Wor^{pps} to understand, that it is
+to us no smale joye to hear, that his majestie hath not only bene
+pleased to confirme y^t ancient amitie, aliance, and frendship, and
+other contracts, formerly made & ratified by his predecessors of famous
+memorie, but hath him selfe (as you say) strengthened the same with a
+new-union the better to resist y^e prid of y^t comone enemy y^e
+Spaniard, from whose cruelty the Lord keep us both, and our native
+countries."
+
+Following the adroit but legitimate suggestion, that their harmony is
+the more desirable in view of their natural foes, he concludes with this
+reminder of their former happy concord in Holland:
+
+"Now forasmuch as this is sufficiente to unite us togeather in love and
+good neighbourhood, in all our dealings, yet are many of us further
+obliged, by the good and curteous entreaty which we have found in your
+countrie; haveing lived ther many years, with freedome, and good
+contente, as also many of our freinds doe to this day; for which we, and
+our children after us, are bound to be thankfull to your Nation, and
+shall never forgett y^e same, but shall hartily desire your good &
+prosperity, as our owne, for ever."
+
+Notwithstanding these veiled admonitions, the Dutch sent further
+epistles, asserting now a claim over English territorial and trade
+rights, and declaring that they would defend the claim. Yet the Plymouth
+Governor's versatile mind and ready tact were equal to this new crisis,
+delicate as it was, and fraught with momentous possibilities. There was
+considerable correspondence, and mutual insistence, though always with
+conventional courtesy of language. Bradford preserved part of these
+diplomatic communications in his Letter Book. He remained firm in the
+English title, knowing the ground therefor, and requested the Manhattan
+magistrates to refer to their own home government, while he deprecated
+any future trouble to them from the British crown.
+
+In the conclusion of one of his missives he offers this advice:
+
+"We desire your Honours, that ye would take into your wise and honorable
+considerations, that which we conceive may be a hindrance to this
+accordation, and may be a means of much future evil, if it be not
+prevented, namely, that you clear the title of your planting in these
+parts, which his Majesty hath, by patent, granted to divers his nobles
+and subjects of quality; least it be a bone of division in these
+stirring evil times, which God forbid: We persuade ourselves, that now
+may be easily and seasonably done, which will be harder and with more
+difficulty obtained hereafter, and perhaps not without blows; so there
+may be assured peace and good correspondence on all parts, and ourselves
+more free and able to contract with your Honours. Thus commending our
+best service to our most noble Lords, praying for the prosperous success
+of your worthy designs, we rest your Lordships'
+
+        Most sincerely affected and bounden,
+            William Bradford,
+                Governour, &c.
+    Plymouth, Oct. 1, Anno 1627."
+
+This seemed to be enough. They desisted from such designs as might not
+be deemed "worthy" by the benevolent English Governor, and for which he
+did not say he might pray. The unwarranted question was dropped, as to
+the Dutch prerogative.
+
+Nevertheless next year the Manhattan correspondent, Secretary Isaac de
+Rasier, came to the Monumet station with trumpeters and a retinue, and
+was conveyed to Plymouth by a boat sent to meet him. After several days'
+entertainment, he returned to his ship under escort, having been
+permitted to accomplish his unprofessed purpose, to observe the
+condition of the fortified English Colony, of which he delivered a
+description, still extant, to his superiors at New Amsterdam.
+
+In 1633 Bradford also sustained the British claim in the Connecticut
+valley above the Hollanders' holdings, sending a vessel up the river to
+the navigable limits, past the threatening Dutch fort at Hartford, and
+establishing a trading post at present Windsor. Both New Amsterdam and
+Massachusetts had repeatedly encouraged them to do this, but repented.
+This mercantile base was embarrassed by a wide-spread plague among the
+Indians, most of whom were unfriendly. After this reverse it was taken
+up by a party from Dorchester and, on Bradford's protest, only a
+sixteenth share in it was returned to Plymouth. The matter caused some
+feeling in the Old Colony toward its newer northern neighbor. Such
+rivalries and questions of debate between the two English sections made
+evident the need of the inter-colonial union which later arose. Harmony
+was sought and usually prevailed.
+
+Captain John Endicott, the new Governor of Massachusetts Bay residing at
+Salem, proceeded promptly to recognize Plymouth's head in this truly
+fraternal manner (his spelling modernized):
+
+"To the worshipful and my right worthy friend, William Bradford, Esq.
+Governor of New Plymouth, these.
+
+"Right Worthy Sir,
+
+"It is a thing not usual, that servants to one master and of the same
+household should be strangers; I assure you I desire it not, nay to
+speak more plainly, I cannot be so to you: God's people are marked with
+one and the same mark, and sealed with one and the same seal, and have
+for the main one and the same heart, guided by one and the same spirit
+of truth; and where this is, there can be no discord, nay, here must
+needs be sweet harmony; and the same request (with you) I make unto the
+Lord, that we may, as Christian brethren, be united by an heavenly and
+unfeigned love, bending all our hearts and forces in furthering a work
+beyond our strength with reverence and fear, fastening our eyes always
+on him that only is able to direct and prosper all our ways."
+
+In the following summer of 1629 the sincere and cultured pastors at
+Salem, Higginson and Skelton, though ordained clergymen, wished to be
+set apart anew. To this religious assembly William Bradford and other
+delegates from the Plymouth church were invited. Adverse winds delayed
+their arrival by sail, and even the days of the stagecoach were then in
+the future; but happily they were in time to give the right hand of
+fellowship to their brethren of the Bay.
+
+The closely allied civil and religious interests of the time were
+further promoted between north and south, under Governor John Winthrop,
+in his third year at Boston, the new and growing colonial seat. This
+excellent man wished to visit his gubernatorial brother, Bradford, and
+associates. There had been great sickness at Boston in its beginning, as
+in Plymouth at first, though proportionately not so severe in the colony
+which started with much better numbers. These Bostonians in their crisis
+bought every available commodity from Plymouth, and for cattle they
+exchanged horses. Thus by their very exigencies, a good degree of
+commercial intercourse and brotherly regard was facilitated.
+
+With Governor Winthrop went the Boston pastor, Reverend John Wilson, and
+two other companions. Their journey was partly by water and latterly by
+land. Informed of their coming, a party headed by Governor Bradford and
+Elder Brewster hastened forth to meet them in the evening, and attended
+them into the town. During their stay of some days, they received the
+best entertainment that could be given them, at the executive residence
+and other homes. And when they returned, they were accompanied for some
+distance on their way, Bradford having his horse carry Winthrop.
+
+The Boston chief dignitary, historian of Massachusetts Bay as Governor
+Bradford was of Plymouth, wrote of the Sabbath which he and his comrades
+spent with their Pilgrim brethren. At that time Roger Williams,
+afterwards the devoted missionary and pioneer among the Rhode Island
+Indians, was living at Plymouth for a couple of years, and was mentioned
+by Winthrop in his narration, as was Reverend Ralph Smith, first pastor
+there for a short time, a good but mediocre man. Thus the record reads,
+in modern spelling:
+
+"On the Lord's Day was a sacrament, which they did partake in; and in
+the afternoon Mr. Roger Williams, according to their custom, propounded
+a question, to which their pastor, Mr. Smith, spoke briefly. Mr.
+Williams prophesied the topic he had submitted; and after, the Governor
+of Plymouth spoke to the question; after him, the Elder; then some two
+or three more of the congregation. Then the Elder desired the Governor
+of Massachusetts and Mr. Wilson to speak to it, which they did. When
+this was ended, the deacon, Mr. Fuller, put the congregation in mind of
+the contribution, upon which the Governor and all the rest went down to
+the deacon's seat and put into the bag, and then returned."
+
+Edward Winslow also once described another feature of their worship:
+
+"We refresht ourselves ... with synginge of Psalmes, making joyfull
+melodie in our hartes, as well as with y^e voice, there being manie in
+y^e congregation verie experte in musick."
+
+
+
+
+V
+
+THE GOVERNOR: LAST ACTS
+
+    _I venture the prophecy that for countless years to come and to
+    untold thousands these mute pages shall eloquently speak of high
+    resolve, great suffering and heroic endurance made possible by
+    an absolute faith in the over-ruling providence of Almighty
+    God._
+
+        Governor Roger Wolcott of Massachusetts, at the Bradford
+        History Presentation, May 26, 1897.
+
+    _Quae patres difficillime adepti sunt nolite turpiter
+    relinquere._
+    (_What the Fathers with greatest difficulty effected do not
+    basely abandon._)
+
+        Inscription on the monument of William Bradford
+        at Plymouth.
+
+    _Sicut patribus, sit Deus nobis._
+    (_As with the Fathers, so may God be with us._)
+
+        SEAL OF BOSTON.
+
+
+In their personal visitation the colonial leaders had opportunity to
+confer on matters of mutual interest, before there was any thought of
+their respective territories becoming merged indissolubly into a noble
+Commonwealth. In 1630 Bradford had received in his name a patent, which
+ten years later the Plymouth court requested to have; but on his ready
+compliance, it returned the same at once to him, to whom and his heirs
+it had been made out by the authorities in England. This charter
+specified the area of the Old Colony, which, under the jurisdiction of
+Plymouth, extended from Scituate, considerably below Boston harbor, to
+Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, with Cape Cod on the east. Not long
+after this it included ten towns.
+
+Soon a decided forward step was taken, toward unity. In September 7,
+1643, a confederation was formed, composed of the colonies of
+Massachusetts Bay, Plymouth, Connecticut and New Haven, and named The
+United Colonies of New England. Probably this coalition was in the minds
+of those who founded the United States of America. There are
+similarities in the very constitutions of the two governmental
+organizations, small and large. The four colonial sections were
+associated on a basis of political equality. A federal congress was
+formed, there being two representative delegates from every Colony, who
+were called commissioners, with one of them presiding. William Bradford
+was four times a commissioner from Plymouth; and twice he was chosen
+president, the second time in 1656, the last full year of his life.
+
+The preamble to this federal constitution thus commences: "Wheras we
+all came into these parts of America with one and y^e same end and aime,
+namly, to advance the kingdome of our Lord Jesus Christ, & to injoye y^e
+liberties of y^e Gospell in puritie with peace; and wheras in our
+setling (by a wise providence of God) we are further disperced upon y^e
+sea coasts and rivers then was at first intended, so y^t we cannot,
+according to our desires, communicate in one governmente &
+jurisdiction;--"
+
+This union was highly desirable, from considerations foreign and
+domestic. The supreme home government was in a condition of uncertainty
+suggestive of either radical change or revolution itself; and so it
+would be less able to attend to its provinces in case of need. And need
+might be at any time, with rival neighboring colonies under other
+national flags, and with the growing realization of the savages that if
+they wished for their former independence they must fight for it, soon
+or never. These facts were plainly perceived in the English settlements,
+with their loose and informal interconnection of only national and
+religious sympathy.
+
+The Massachusetts Bay Colony, beginning at Salem, had been powerfully
+augmented at Charlestown and Boston in the summer of 1630, by the
+arrival of its Governor John Winthrop and others who were soon followed
+by the New England fleet of no less than ten more vessels carrying about
+fifteen hundred colonists. The great natural facilities of Boston
+harbor and its environments encouraged a steady and numerous
+immigration, so that in 1643, the year of confederation, it is estimated
+that five times as many were found there as in the Old Colony.
+Connecticut comprised now about the same number as the latter, three
+thousand, and New Haven half a thousand less. Numerically, therefore,
+the English in New England were not yet strong. Yet they were constantly
+growing in this and every respect, having now nearly fifteen thousand
+acres of grain and a thousand acres in gardens and orchards, with two
+thousand cattle and three thousand sheep.
+
+The limited body of legislators in this confederation, was composed,
+however, of truly representative men. And Bradford had much previous
+experience in law. The first few and simple statutes of Plymouth were
+revised and enlarged in 1636, when eight delegates, representing also
+Duxbury and Scituate, co-operated with the Governor and his seven
+assistants.
+
+The seal of authority which he was accustomed to use was a double eagle.
+He was Chief Justice, Speaker of the General Court, which granted him a
+double vote, and Auditor of the Treasury, all these functions being,
+however, on a scale so limited as to forbid what in larger setting would
+seem an excess of prerogatives. The record of the 1621 meersteads are in
+his hand, as was the lost register of early deaths, marriages and
+punishments.
+
+Bradford felt keenly the numerical loss of Plymouth colonists who went
+out to form new communities. Everywhere the pioneer mood was for
+expansion. In this way he was also deprived of a group of able men. Yet
+they remained mostly in the Old Colony, except Edward Winslow, who
+finally returned to England. In the year of colonial union Elder
+Brewster passed away, who had been not only a most worthy and acceptable
+preacher and virtual pastor at Plymouth, but a close adviser to the
+Governor, even as he had been the counsellor of his youth. The efficient
+military head, Myles Standish, was released by death from further
+responsibilities in 1656; and Bradford survived him only into the next
+year, having still the company of the public-spirited and helpful John
+Howland, of the remaining Mayflower Pilgrims.
+
+Many of the best people of England were leaving for America. Much alarm
+was felt by the home government on this account, in whose eyes colonial
+New England always represented protest. The former vacillated between
+aggression and hesitating aloofness toward this uncomfortable element of
+dissent, exceedingly vexed at such persistent survival and vigorous
+increase, and yet recognizing its most promising contribution to the
+strength of the realm. But always again, where royalty wavered, or on
+the other hand in desperation leaped to violent opposition, the prelacy
+was close behind it with an urgency which often bordered upon
+dictation.
+
+Of course the exception to this otherwise uniformly uncongenial
+Anglo-American interrelation was the regime of the Commonwealth. Had
+Cromwell sat on the throne of George IV, we would undoubtedly have been
+a lower Canada for a period of time difficult to delimit. It has been
+aptly stated that the Oriental idea of conquest was without
+incorporation, the Roman idea was conquest with incorporation but
+without representation, and the English idea of empire building was
+incorporation with representation. This is eminently true as regards
+England, to her credit be it said. And herein was her folly in forcing
+the American Revolution, because at that time she fell from her own
+ideals, which have so signally succeeded in the policy of practical
+colonial autonomy, vastly promoting her beneficent power.
+
+This happy principle of provincial administration was not yet developed
+in the seventeenth century, which was a season of preparation for the
+stupendous blunder of the eighteenth, perpetrated by a head-strong
+despot without the sympathy of his own home people or a large part of
+Parliament. The root of the trouble then was taxation without
+representation, and England learned a valuable lesson after quite an
+awkward experience. But regal antagonism found its provincial object in
+religious dissent as early as 1634, when a warrant was issued to stay
+several vessels about to sail for America. In King Charles' reign, three
+ships were assigned to convey a governor and bishops to the west.
+Massachusetts was greatly stirred up in regard to this, forts were
+ordered built, and resistance was meditated. The program of absolutism
+lagged. Nevertheless it looked like a critical juncture, before the
+tension was relieved by the rise of revolution in Scotland, which
+resulted in the monarch's dethronement and decapitation. The lords
+accepted the colonists' petition, and gave forth that they did not
+intend to curtail their liberties.
+
+The New England Federation was an unprofessed Declaration of
+Independence. Their virtual assertion of popular sovereignty was
+temporarily smothered by imported tyranny in the shape of Sir Edmund
+Andros. Yet the people's power slowly continued to grow, and the
+erection of Harvard College was a mighty factor in the process before a
+decade had passed in the Bay Colony. Thither Plymouth sent her youth of
+promise.
+
+The claim is presumably warranted, that the unsought but unchanging
+popular choice of the chief executive, this cordial will of the Plymouth
+people as a body, occasioned the later departure of individuals or small
+groups of citizens who might wish to give exercise to political
+aspirations, where fresh settlements offered more room for choice
+without a solid constituency for any one favorite. The Plymouth voters
+were the more ardent for their man, because he returned the patent
+which, if strictly interpreted by the old English law, would make him
+Lord of the Manor and the colonists his tenants. In the essential
+democracy of the American community, he would be the last person to use
+the anciently established privilege; but evidently because of the
+technical possibility the Court finally requested him to surrender his
+charter, and then, pleased at his ready compliance, as promptly restored
+it. They knew him beyond all doubt, after that transaction of 1640 if
+not before.
+
+His long continued term is especially noteworthy when we reflect that he
+was upheld as an ideal leader by a company of citizens who were
+ethically most exacting. They were peers of the best in all human
+society, and to satisfy such was indeed a compliment. At the same time,
+men and women of their excellent type, speaking at least for those of
+the church considered in their civic order, were too noble to need the
+ordinary repressions incident to the task of governing. Except for the
+necessary form and precedent, their moral grandeur required no governor.
+
+Though he wrote against the sectaries with their sinister
+politico-religious designs or wishes, he did not drive them out unless
+actual treason developed. The Pilgrims realized they were themselves
+exiles from intolerance. Yet there was a degree of intolerance after
+Bradford passed out from Plymouth, and what bigotry was discoverable in
+Boston then was felt somewhat at the older settlement. The successor of
+Carver, like most of his associates, was also free from superstition,
+placing no credence in the supernatural omens of comets and celestial
+bodies.
+
+It was his understood duty to entertain strangers, especially visiting
+officials. The Jesuit Driulette spoke afterward of his kindness, noting
+also that as host on Friday, he served an excellent dinner of fish.
+
+At least seven orphans, but probably many more, at one time or another
+found refuge beneath his roof. Robert Cushman, the Pilgrim agent who
+died after valued services abroad, requested that his son Thomas might
+receive a father's care from Bradford, and the latter brought him up
+with such faithful training that eventually his charge became Elder
+Brewster's successor. To cite one further instance of his kindness, in
+1644 Bradford wrote to his wife's sister, Mary Carpenter, inviting her
+to come to them though they had grown old, as he said. She accepted and
+lived with them in such tranquillity, as a devout maiden lady, that she
+survived till past ninety.
+
+The Plymouth town meetings were held at first in the Governor's house.
+But in at least two of the years when relieved by a successor in office
+and sometimes during his gubernatorial term as in 1643, the more
+strenuous first year of Federation, he occupied his house and farm of
+three hundred acres in present Kingston, which he owned as early as
+1637, above the Jones River. He was among its explorers who took such a
+liking for the locality that they were tempted to establish the
+settlement there; but the stream ran shallow at ebb tide, and the
+surrounding woods rendered the situation more unsafe. In this quiet
+summer retreat he must have found more leisure to pen much of his
+careful History. When that had ended, by 1647, tenants occupied the
+farm, and he is thought to have returned to town.
+
+The inventory of his property specifies "the old mare," possibly when in
+her prime the one he caused Governor Winthrop to mount, while the
+latter's party were escorted forth after visiting Plymouth, the
+departure being probably fully as ceremonious as when they were
+conducted to town after nightfall. Two horses besides, and a couple of
+colts are cited, with twenty-six head of cattle of various ages, and
+sheep and swine. He was the largest property holder, Standish rating
+next. At his decease he was worth about nine hundred pounds.
+
+He possessed considerable real estate in Plymouth centre, particularly
+the area between the Hill and Main Street, and across on the site of
+Pilgrim Hall. An orchard and garden adjoined his town residence.
+
+The house concerned with the inventory of his estate shows how far
+superior the executive residence must have been, to the original log
+cottages. The long list of articles in the inventory is available to
+those interested in all the minutiae. Every item has its valuation. The
+old parlor's furnishings head this attractive catalogue of the contents
+of his home, and imagination is not greatly taxed to see the possessor
+there.
+
+This reception room includes the green rug, quite likely the same as
+that early mentioned, and a white one, table and cupboard and settle, a
+smooth-grained "wainscot" bedstead and feather bed, and among the chairs
+a large leather one and great wooden ones, with muskets, a pistol and a
+cutlass.
+
+We pass in thought to "the great Rome," over three striped carpets and
+amidst chairs, great and small; and here may have been the public
+functions, as the annual meeting.
+
+In "the new chamber," among articles of clothing picture two suits with
+silver buttons, one of them leaden-colored, garments of sufficient
+distinction for a magistrate, as are a coat of broadcloth, a well used
+violet-colored cloak and dignified old green gown. A black hat and
+colored one are mentioned without allusion to age. Fourteen pairs of
+shoes appear, and one hundred and thirteen yards of different cloth.
+
+The family hospitality is evinced by sixty-four pewter pieces, some
+silverware and a few Venetian glasses, four dozen trenchers, and kitchen
+utensils of brass and iron.
+
+Among many things in the "studdie" are his desk, presumably the witness
+of an incalculable amount of official business, and seven small moose
+skins for the silent tread. There is a good collection of books, though
+the most of them were passed on in his lifetime, especially to his son
+William who possessed the father's fondness for Latin and inherited
+those classical treasures. But the Governor retained to the last various
+historical and theological works, among which were Luther's commentary
+on Galatians, Calvin on Genesis, a history of the Church of the
+Netherlands, and Cotton's concordance. A volume on "domesticall dutyes"
+is cited, to the accomplishment of which attest two spinning wheels.
+Mrs. Bradford certified to this appraisal.
+
+The will was made May 9, Old Style, the very day of his decease, when he
+"feeling himself very weake and drawing on to the conclusion of his
+mortal life spake as followeth." In the beginning of this testament he
+was described as "weake in body but in p^{pct} memory," and he named the
+sole executrix as "my dear and loving wife Alice Bradford."
+
+Thus the dictated statement closes: "I commend to your wisdome some
+small bookes written by my owne hand to bee improved as you shall see
+meet. In speciall I comend to you a little book with a black cover,
+wherein there is a word to Plymouth and a word to Boston and a word to
+New England with sundry useful verses."
+
+The family record, from Governor Bradford's birth, was contained in a
+Bible printed 1592 in old English.
+
+Posterity is vastly indebted to William Bradford as the resident
+historian of Plymouth Colony, throughout its first quarter of a century.
+His narration of the Pilgrim story begins almost with the seventeenth
+century, before the exodus to Holland. He makes no entries beyond 1646,
+although, in the same neat handwriting, these dates are added--"Anno
+1647. And Anno 1648." Similarly, 1639 and '40 had been joined together,
+the author expressing his opinion that they did not cover enough matters
+of importance for separate treatment. But two years after the last date
+mentioned in the main volume, he concludes an Appendix with these words:
+
+"And of the old stock (of one & other) ther are yet living this present
+year, 1650, nere 30 persons. Let the Lord have y^e praise, who is the
+High Preserver of men."
+
+In the opening chapter, we find on a reverse page a note dated during
+that last year of the continuous record, 1646, wherein he says--"when I
+first begane these scribled writings (which was aboute y^e year 1630,
+and so peeced up at times of leasure afterward)." It would seem that no
+season of sufficient leisure arrived even to begin, before that
+strenuous first decade had nearly elapsed.
+
+It is consistent with the unfailing humility that graced the people's
+chosen and beloved leader that, although as such he necessarily had a
+most important part in the affairs of the Colony, he speaks of his
+official self, when this is unavoidable, in an impersonal manner only;
+and he rather rarely introduces the pronoun "I," or even its inclusive
+plural "we," but usually employs the third person.
+
+The language of this monumental work is that of a careful recorder,
+plain and unaffected, having a lucid simplicity combined with the
+replete vocabulary of a reflective literary mind. The style is dignified
+and chaste, neither labored nor strained. Its fluent grace and ease of
+diction compels and sustains the interest of the reader, whatever page
+he may peruse. It is a model specimen of Elizabethan literature. The
+account proceeds with a thoughtful deliberation and river-like momentum
+of progressiveness. One realizes the faithful and honest
+comprehensiveness of his memory's scrutiny, obeying the habitual call of
+his conscience, which would not allow him the transcription of untruths
+under any circumstances. His review "of Plimoth Plantation" is well
+worthy of its place as New England's first historical record of
+considerable extent, following Edward Winslow's fascinating journal of
+the three initial years.
+
+It is the privilege of everyone to look upon this hoary manuscript,
+bound in its time-worn parchment, and exhibited under glass in a
+specially prepared strong case upon its nightly enclosing iron safe at
+the Massachusetts State Library. The volume is a folio less than a foot
+long, nearly eight inches wide, and an inch and a half in thickness,
+having two hundred and seventy pages. At the outbreak of the Revolution
+the priceless treasure disappeared and was long lost; but finally, in
+1855, it was found and identified in the library of the Bishop of
+London. Just when and how it reached its destination there, remains a
+mystery. The British occupation of Boston would make its seizure easy,
+and the home government may have desired it for official entries.
+Senator George F. Hoar of Massachusetts, who said of the classic
+document, "There is nothing like it in human annals since the story of
+Bethlehem," voiced to Sir Frederick Temple, Bishop of London, the
+earnest desire of the Commonwealth and the Federal administration for
+its return. The Bishop recognized the justice of the request, but
+considered it necessary or advisable to consult Queen Victoria and Dr.
+Benson, who was Archbishop of Canterbury and Primate of the Established
+Church of all England. But directly the venerable and scholarly Dr.
+Temple himself succeeded to the supreme ecclesiastical office at
+Canterbury; and in response to a formal request from the United States
+Ambassador, Hon. Thomas F. Bayard, the cherished tome was conveyed to
+America in 1897, and received by Governor Roger Wolcott, a lineal
+descendant of Governor Bradford. The formal presentation at the State
+House made an impressive occasion, with memorable addresses. Such,
+briefly stated, is the singular history of the History.
+
+Two other literary properties of Bradford also disappeared. His Pocket
+Book was preserved long enough to furnish the chronologist, Rev. Thomas
+Prince of Boston, with many dates of great importance, and other
+material of incalculable use.
+
+His Letter Book was a large volume containing copies of letters in
+regard to the Colony's affairs. Such a collection of reproduced missives
+betokened the carefulness and preparedness of the possessor. A fragment
+of it was discovered in a Halifax grocery, and published by the
+Massachusetts Historical Society. Six of these letters found were
+written by Bradford alone, and three jointly. They were mostly official.
+Appended to this correspondence file was the Governor's interesting
+description and short historical review of New England, written in metre
+and rhyme.
+
+Though we who speak of William Bradford as our Forefather should not be
+moved by pride, as no man is responsible for his own birth, it causes in
+us profound gratitude that we can affirm our relationship to one who has
+been called the first great American. Men of renown before his day, a
+few of them, had a touch with this country, as the very conspicuous
+connections of famous discoverers; but the epithet applies to him as a
+continuous resident of the land. His life and labors were permanently
+given to it as his adopted abode, for he never left it from the day of
+his coming in the prime of his manhood. In what, let us ask, did his
+greatness consist? Others shared in heroic faithfulness, to the limit of
+their powers or opportunities. His was the magnitude of an immovable
+fidelity joined with marked ability, though, as with Washington, his
+mental genius was not the most brilliant. But he carried well and long
+exceedingly weighty responsibilities.
+
+When has a combination of so many most critical problems confronted a
+magistrate? Weakened by disease which threatened utter extermination,
+the Colony encountered a tedious period of famine; it was menaced by
+hostile savage tribes stronger than the friendly natives; the
+malevolence of foreign persecution plotted the overthrow of its chosen
+religious order; treason sprang up in its midst; a staggering weight of
+financial obligations, made heavier by accidents and outrageous
+injustice, lay upon them for a quarter of a century; and the seventh
+problem, which stayed by the Governor till his final release, was that
+presented by the frequent loss of citizens attracted by new settlements,
+a circumstance so serious that the question of moving the whole Colony
+was raised as late as 1644. In all the arduous activities occasioned by
+these facts, he possessed the quality of steady endurance. His soul was
+reposeful in energy, while his underlying faith made him an optimist but
+not a visionary, and lent both basis and balance in his working.
+
+To Bradford also belongs the singular honor of being the first ruler to
+demonstrate, with his associates, true Christian democracy, not
+exaggerated into communism, as a successful principle of government.
+
+Peaceful was his departure, from the scene of his colossal tasks. He
+last presided at court February 13, 1657. The annual meeting in March
+found him absent. But though his health declined for a few months, to be
+followed by a sudden and acute disease in May, the end came soon. One
+night he was so moved with anticipations of the hereafter, that he said
+in the morning to those about him, "The good Spirit of God has given me
+a pledge of my happiness in another world, and the first-fruits of
+eternal glory." About nine o'clock on the next day, May 19, after he had
+dictated his will, his breathing ceased.
+
+His endeared form was laid to rest in the brow of the gently swelling
+eminence which overlooks the site of his homestead of thirty-six years
+and the blue bay seemingly meeting the heavens beyond the harbor,
+suggestive of the final voyage to scenes of yet nobler liberty. His
+obsequies were observed with fitting dignity, accentuated by resounding
+volleys. The distinguished clergyman, Cotton Mather of Boston, wrote in
+eulogy, that he was "lamented by all the colonies of New England as a
+common father to them all."
+
+Let his own simple verses summarize his career.
+
+    "From my years young in days of youth,
+    God did make known to me his truth,
+    And call'd me from my native place
+    For to enjoy the means of grace.
+    In wilderness he did me guide,
+    And in strange lands for me provide.
+    In fears and wants, through weal and woe,
+    A pilgrim, past I to and fro;
+    Oft left of them whom I did trust;
+    How vain it is to rest on dust!
+
+           *       *       *       *       *
+
+    Wars, wants, peace, plenty, have I known;
+    And some advanc'd, others thrown down.
+
+           *       *       *       *       *
+
+    When fears and sorrows have been mixt,
+    Consolations came betwixt."
+
+And thus, foreseeing his taking away, he gave his blessing:
+
+    "Farewell, dear children whom I love,
+    Your better Father is above:
+    When I am gone, he can supply;
+    To him I leave you when I die.
+    Fear him in truth, walk in his ways,
+    And he will bless you all your days.
+    My days are spent, old age is come,
+    My strength it fails, my glass near run:
+    Now I will wait, when work is done,
+    Until my happy change shall come,
+    When from my labours I shall rest,
+    With Christ above for to be blest."
+
+
+
+
+INDEX
+
+
+    Ancestors, 17, 18
+
+    Auditor, 92
+
+
+    Baptism, 12
+
+    Birth, 12
+
+    Burial, 106
+
+
+    Capability, 20, 42, 92, 105
+
+    Carefulness, 12, 64, 69, 104
+
+    Character in general, 42, 104
+
+    Chief Justice, 92
+
+    Commissioner, United Colonies, 90
+
+    Correspondence, 43, 44, 81, 104
+
+    Courage, 21, 41, 43, 51, 76
+
+    Craftsman, 22, 24
+
+
+    Death, 100, 106
+
+    Deputy Governor, 42
+
+    Diplomacy, 43, 80
+
+    Discernment, 54, 68
+
+    Discipline, 42, 48
+
+
+    Education, 20, 22
+
+    Escapes, 21, 35, 38
+
+
+    Family, 59
+
+    Farmer, 97
+
+    "First Great American," 104
+
+
+    Governor
+      Administration characterized, 42
+      First term, 41
+      Returned, 42, 95
+
+    Gratitude, 27, 48, 80, 107
+
+    Guardian, 97
+
+
+    Historian, 58, 101
+
+    Hospitality, 52, 63, 67, 97
+
+    Humility, 5, 11, 25, 42, 43, 62, 81, 95, 101
+
+
+    Illnesses
+      In childhood, 18
+      In maturity, 38, 41
+      Final, 100, 106
+
+
+    Judgment, 25-6, 46, 49, 53
+
+    Justice, 43, 44, 57, 69, 72, 83, 85, 96
+
+
+    Legislator, 92
+
+    Library, 100
+
+
+    Marriage
+      First, 12, 24
+      Second, 59
+
+    Mercy, 43, 63, 68
+
+
+    Patentee, 79, 90, 95
+
+    Pedestrian, 20, 48
+
+    Perseverance, 21, 76
+
+    Piety, 12, 21, 61, 48, 80, 87-8, 101, 106, 107
+
+    President, United Colonies, 90
+
+    Property, 18, 23, 98
+
+    Provider, 47, 52
+
+
+    Registrar, 92
+
+
+    Speaker of the General Court, 92, 106
+
+
+    Thanksgiving Day, first formal appointment, 48
+
+    Trader, 47, 76, 79
+
+    Toleration, 70, 96
+
+
+    Verses, 100, 107
+
+
+    Will, 100
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's Note:
+
+Spelling and dialect has been retained as in the original
+publication, except as follows:
+
+    Page 16
+
+    Ccrooby gathered awhile in a stone _changed to_
+    Scrooby gathered awhile in a stone
+
+    Page 21
+
+    from his pious inclinations.
+    from his pious inclinations".
+
+    Page 29
+    Reynold's ship sprang a leak
+    Reynolds' ship sprang a leak
+
+    Page 38
+    village was laid out Januuary
+    village was laid out January
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's William Bradford of Plymouth, by Albert Hale Plumb
+
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