ves masters of
the castle by storm; but, while we expected to see them put this bold
measure in execution, I discovered that they and the Portuguese were
engaged in a parley. While I was preparing to wait on the Persian
general, to enquire the cause of this sudden change of measures, I met a
messenger from our English commanders, informing me that a boat had come
off to our ships from the castle, bearing a flag of truce, and desiring
my presence on board to see what was the purpose of this communication.
On my getting on board the London, I found two Portuguese there, with
the following letters from the captain of the castle, and the almirante:

"There hath been such ancient friendship between the
Portuguese and English nations, that, considering the present
war at this place, we ought to come to a mutual good
understanding. From what I see of the mines made by the
Persians, by which one of my bulwarks is already won, I am
of opinion these could not have been constructed without
your aid. Wherefore, I request you would be the means of
procuring peace for me with the Persians, if the same may
be done with your and their good pleasure, yet so that I may
not lose my credit, nor you fail to gain honour. Thus, not
else, our Lord keep you," &c.

_Simon de Mela Pereira_.

"This castle is so hard pressed, that the Persians demand
us to surrender by capitulation, but which we will not consent
to: For, when reduced to that necessity, we will call
upon your worships for that purpose, as it were not reasonable
for us to capitulate with the infidels when you are present.
We hold it more humane to deliver our innocent women,
and other unnecessary people, to the rigour of our own
weapons, than to the clemency of the Persians; and that you
might know this our purpose, I have written these lines to
accompany the letter from our captain. What else you may
wish to know, you may learn from the bearer of these letters,
to whom you may give the same credit as to myself. And so
God keep your worships," &c.

_Luis de Brito Dar_.

Dated 1st May, 1622.[310]

Taking these letters into consideration, and commiserating their
situation as Christians, it was resolved to give them a favourable
answer, which was done accordingly in a letter to the Captain Simon de
Mela, offering to become an intermedium for procuring them such
conditions from the Persians as migh