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The text from 4 May 1697 describes ongoing tensions between the kingdoms of Boni and Gowa in Macassar (modern-day Makassar, Indonesia). Here’s a summary of the key points:

The text also addresses criticism from another Dutch official (referred to as "uw Edelheden," or "Your Honors") in a letter dated 5 March 1697:

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0739  


On 4 May 1697, officials in Makassar reported to the Dutch council about the fall of Goa, which they believed could have been prevented. The people of Makassar expressed fear of an attack by the Buginese (people from Bone). The local ruler, Aroe Ponij, along with other nobles and two queen widows, thanked the Dutch East India Company (VOC) repeatedly for their pardon, reaffirming earlier promises of loyalty.

The VOC believed this show of gratitude maintained their authority and prevented further unrest—or even the complete ruin of Goa. The kingdom had been threatened by conflicts tied to the Buginese claims that the Makassares, particularly Radja Goa, were plotting to restore the exiled king To-isa (his brother-in-law) in the kingdom of Soping. Though the people of Goa had hinted at these concerns earlier (as recorded on 12, 15, and 22 November), they did so vaguely. A trusted source later revealed that Aroe Ponij had secretly warned Radja Goa through his nephew, Crain Bontolankas, that he was strengthening his position in Pamanjingan (a region inland behind Goa) and would join Radja Goa if needed.

Despite Goa's complaints, their fear of attack persisted. They even requested Dutch soldiers for protection (noted on 24 December of the previous year). Tensions grew when Aroe Ponij, in a meeting with the governor on 25 February, accused Goa of sending Crain Bonto Monompo to Bone to persuade Crain Toerongan to rebel. He presented a letter—written on palm leaves by Crain Toerongan's wife to Aroe Tanette Matoea—as proof. Though upset, the governor and council advised caution, urging Aroe Ponij not to jump to conclusions. When pressed, the governor refused to name the accuser, fearing it would escalate tensions further.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0737  


On 4 May 1697, a report from Makassar detailed the state of affairs among local allies, particularly focusing on tensions with the kingdom of Boni and the actions of Aroe Ponij (also called Aru Palaka). The report highlighted ongoing conflicts since October 1696, when Aroe Ponij had attacked the kingdom of Sopingh (also Suppa).

The report also mentioned unresolved discussions about the kingdom of Tambora, though time constraints prevented further decisions on that matter.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0735  


On 4 May 1693, a report from Makassar mentioned that Aroe Teko and Crain Jersmika remained on the island of Sumbawa against the wishes of their kings and the Dutch commanders. The area near Tambora had suffered greatly from war, with the land exhausted and many people scattered due to hunger. Despite this, Aroe Teko and Crain Jersmika stayed, claiming they had reasons similar to those in a letter sent from Lunn on 20 April to the governor.

The letter stated that Turelij Baramboe and Turelij Gampo (said to be uncles or brothers of the Raja of Tambora) had come with 80 men to join the Dutch and settle in Sumbawa. They accused these men of spreading lies. The letter also noted that 17 cannons had been captured:

Another report from Makassar on 4 May 1697 mentioned that the Raja of Goa had sent a ship to Sumbawa without specifying the type or size of cannons. The ship was to wait for the governor’s orders, but the report only discussed large cannons, as the Raja of Goa knew the Sumbawa contracts were exclusively for the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

The kings of Boni and Goa were frustrated that their subjects were not fully obeying their commands and sought the VOC's authority to enforce compliance. The Raja of Goa sent a servant, Dain Madjene, to Sumbawa on 2 May to check on Crain Sevenika and encourage Crain Pomelikan to return. The servant was to report back in writing, which would then be forwarded to the Dutch officials.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0733  


View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0731  


On 4 May 1697, officials in Makassar sent a letter to Governor-General Willem van Outhoorn and the Council of the Dutch East Indies in Batavia. They reported receiving two letters from Batavia: one from 29 December (arrived 15 January) via the yacht Boswijk, and another from 5 March (arrived 3 April) via the ship Domburgh.

The letter served as a guide for the Domburgh, which was sent ahead of the Boswijk to sail back via Tagal (Manila). It also provided a brief update on key events, focusing on the island of Sumbawa.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0729  


On 4 May 1697, a list of documents was sent from Makassar aboard the ship Domburgh, addressed to Willem van Outhoorn, the Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies in Batavia, and the Council of the Dutch East Indies. The documents included:

The documents were signed in Makassar at Fort Rotterdam by Jacob Cuijcq van Mijrop, the secretary.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0727  


On 14 February 1697, a report was translated from Malay by Wan Muhammad and presented to Willem van Outhoorn, the Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies. The report detailed political conflicts in the kingdom of Soping (also called Suppa), as shared by a traveler named Tohamis from Makassar.

Tohamis shared this information with Wan Muhammad while still in Makassar and left Batavia on 2 February 1697.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0725  


View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0723  


On 4 May 1697, a financial report from Makassar (in the Rotterdam Castle) was settled, including expenses for Domburg totaling ƒ414. Most of these costs were for Opperkoopman Schenckenberg and Coopman Caas.

The letter was signed by:

A note explained that Underkoopman Abraham Holscher and Vaandrager Pieter Pietersz should follow instructions for dealing with Aroe Ponij in Boni.

The reason for this report was the death of the old king of Boni on 6 April 1696. The current king, then called Aroe Palacca (or Lapatauw), was named successor with the support of the Aroe Pitoes (electors). Though the Dutch East India Company (VOC) had not originally planned this, they accepted it for peace, hoping the new king would seek good advice. He was crowned in Boni on 6 October 1696 with the VOC’s approval.

However, conflicts arose when Soping rejected Queen Regent Trowatoe and reinstated her brother, the deposed king To-Isa. This led to tensions, and the new king, Aroe Ponij, soon faced war.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0760  


On 4 April 1697, a letter was written from the Castle Rotterdam in Makassar by officials including Isaac van Thije (governor and director), Mattheus Schenckenberg, Hendrick Steenkop, Pieter Schipion, Arnoldus Moll, and Joannes Hakkert. They instructed someone (likely a merchant or envoy) to return quickly and provide a truthful written report about their mission. This report was needed so the officials could properly advise their superiors ("welgemelte haar Edelheden"). The letter ended with well-wishes and was signed by the group.

The document was later verified on 4 May 1697 by Iacob Cuijk van Mijerop, the secretary, who confirmed its accuracy.

Attached to the letter was a report by Abraham Holscher (a junior merchant, or "onderkoopman") and Pieter Pietersz (an ensign, or "vaandrig"). They described their encounters and activities during their journey by sea, land, freshwater lake ("Verse-meir"), and river.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0768  


On 4 May 1697, a letter was sent from Makassar to the Dutch authorities in Batavia (modern-day Jakarta). The document was a translated message from the ruler of Gowa, Paduka Sri Sultan Fakar al-Eddin Abdul Dzialiel, and his high-ranking officials. It was addressed to the Dutch Governor-General and the Council of the Dutch East Indies.

The document was prepared by Dutch officials in Makassar, including Abraham Holscher, Pieter Pietersen, and Jacob Cuijk van Mijerop, the secretary. It was originally written in Malay and later translated for the Dutch authorities.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0777  


View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0775  


On 4 May 1697, officials in the fort at Makassar reported the following events:

The governor and council then sent a reply through the messenger, expressing their hopes for a resolution under the authority of the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0773  


This document contains records from 1697 related to the Dutch presence in Amboina (modern Ambon, Indonesia).

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0010  


The following documents were received in Amboina (now Ambon, Indonesia) between June 6 and October 11, 1697, detailing events and reports from local officials to the higher government in Batavia (now Jakarta, Indonesia):

The records were formally registered in Amboina in 1697.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0009  


On 4 May 1697, a Dutch delegation arrived in Makassar and was warmly welcomed by Tori Wadjo and local leaders. They were seated on chairs placed on raised platforms and met with the ruler, referred to as "his highness," along with nobles from the Bugis people. The group included a Dutch East India Company (VOC) clerk acting as an interpreter, who formally delivered greetings from the governor and council in Batavia (modern-day Jakarta).

The Dutch requested lodging due to fatigue from their journey, which was granted. They were given a notable residence belonging to Aroe Tanete Matona, with assurances that all necessary supplies—food, sleeping arrangements, and other essentials—would be provided according to local customs. During this time, they learned that the king’s father, Poanna Packakoija, had died 29 days earlier in the region of Timoroe and had been buried with full honors by the leading nobles of the Bone Kingdom.

The delegation was also told that the king had already sent messengers to fetch his best ships upon hearing from his captain, Boelo, that a Dutch ship from Batavia had arrived at the castle in Souwandang. Additionally, the king had been informed by another messenger, Toenanga, about the Dutch arrival before the delegation’s own meeting with him.

On 16 May, the Dutch were summoned by the king through the interpreter Toumar and the noble Sabandhaar to explain the purpose of their visit. They revealed that the ship Domburg had arrived, carrying letters and gifts from the Dutch governor and council. These gifts were to be formally presented with proper ceremony, following the advice of local officials in Bantuale.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0771  


On 4 May 1693, a group departed from Makassar after receiving instructions and saying farewell. They traveled by boat, provided by Radja Bonij, and arrived near Padang on 13 May. The next morning, they continued their journey overland with 20 porters and 19 horses, crossing mountains called Bolisicappa toward the village of Waetchepi. They arrived around 3 PM, noting the village was fortified with a square wall and four stone towers, about 7 feet high and the size of Castle Rotterdam.

From there, they were quickly transported to the village of Boelebangie and then continued by boat across Tempe, under the rule of Touwadjo, toward Sindrana in Bone. On 14 May, they set off in four large canoes, crossing Lake Tamparongh Labadjo and passing the village of Trrewatta. They reached Tempe around 5 PM and stayed until midnight, when the canoes and crew were replaced. They traveled downriver and arrived near Sindrana around noon on 15 May.

There, they were received by Boules Sabandhaar Tomassa, a high-ranking official, who provided them with horses. They were then escorted by him to Radja Bonij, whose residence stood on about 90 large wooden pillars. The house was wide and long, surrounded by a strong river, with a fort nearby. The fort had three towers, about 11 feet high, made of stone and coated with lime. Additional defenses included two square towers and a third tower about a pistol-shot away, though the area was not suitable for heavy weapons.

During this visit, they were also introduced to Aroe Matavia (also called Aroe Marripo), the ruler of Toriwadjo.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1595 / 0769  


On 20 July 1679, officials in Makassar discussed concerns about potential attacks and how to defend themselves if needed. They worried that if war broke out that year, their army of 2,600 soldiers, already in the field, might struggle during the rainy season (expected in 3 to 4 months). This could force them to retreat, making it difficult to regroup later. They also feared that more enemies, called bomiforo, might join the fight over time, creating bigger problems.

The council considered sending extra ships to Bima (besides the Chialoup Japara, which was already planned for salt and supplies). They decided to send the Jachtie Rotterdam, a ship they could spare, to block enemy supply routes by water and destroy their coastal water sources. They also wanted to encourage the kings of Bima and Dompo to take more interest in defending themselves.

After hearing reports from experienced officials—E. de Bocq, Mr. van Daalen, and Prins—who knew the area, including the mountain Caloncon, the council realized their defenses were weak. Unable to make a quick decision, they postponed further discussion until a later meeting.

The next morning, they decided to send the Jachtie Rotterdam and the Chialoup Japara within 4 to 5 days. On board would be:

Their mission was to end the unrest in Bima—either through negotiation or force—after the conflicts had dragged on for too long. They hoped for success with God’s help.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0868  


On 20 July 1679, a report from Maccassar described the ongoing conflict near Caloncon. The enemy forces, struggling to get supplies, couldn’t easily access fresh water from the mountain. Instead, they had to dig wells inland during high tide to collect drinking water, but when the tide receded, the wells turned salty and brackish.

When asked if Dutch ships and guns could cut off this water supply to force a surrender, it was clear that doing so would quickly end the war. The conflict had already lasted about 4 years. The King of Tambora had earlier requested help from the Dutch fiscal officer Sir van Daaben, but the Dutch had refused, believing the people of Biema should handle the situation themselves. The kings of Biema and Dompe had promised to support the King of Tambora.

A man named Crain Jernicka reported that he had seen inside Caloncon and estimated the enemy forces at around 500 people. He had advised the enemy leader, Bomifiro, to surrender to the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and make peace with the King of Tambora, but they showed no interest.

After hearing this, the Dutch president called a council meeting. They reviewed treaties with the kings of Biira and the King of Tambora’s agreement with the VOC from 22 July 1675. Key points included:

The VOC, in turn, accepted this obligation and promised to protect the King of Tambora against any threats.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0866  


On 20 July 1679, a report was made in Makassar after the death of a local leader. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) received information about a man named Jernicke, who had arrived with requests from various regions. The VOC was not interested in his proposals.

Jernicke mentioned he had met Crai Saderbronij near Gili and had been to Sumbawa (Saderbonij). About a month earlier, some people from Bima had reportedly been sent to Sumbawa, but the VOC had no further details.

When asked where he intended to settle, Jernicke replied he wanted to stay as a "free trader," not under anyone’s rule. He also mentioned his brother, Crai Lincques, had asked him in a letter to look after his wife, children, and property while traveling to Batavia. The wife, Lombe Tombe, was previously married to the late king of Goa and Bissij’s father. Jernicke said he was willing to stay in his brother’s camp, suggesting he was not very interested in Sumbawa.

When questioned about the situation in Bima, Boni, and Tambora, Jernicke explained:

Jernicke believed the siege was weak because the attackers lacked proper organization and support. He thought the defenders could hold out easily.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0864  


On 20 July 1679, Major Poleman and his army marched from Makassar toward Crain Flisson, who had already begun his operations. They hoped to join forces with the Bugis ships and troops (mentioned in a previous report) that had left Makassar earlier. The goal was to confront the enemy decisively, leaving a lasting memory of the battle. Though some local groups had submitted under Dutch protection, there were concerns they might return to their old arrogance if they regained power.

Crain Jernika was asked how many ships and people had come with him from Bima. He replied that 15 ships had left Bima, but storms had scattered them, so not all had arrived yet. When asked what should be done with the gathered Makassares, the President said he would consult the council and respond later.

On the same date, the President met with the merchant de Bocq and mentioned an old custom: taking a tenth of the spoils from scattered and regrouped forces. However, he left the decision to the Dutch, acting as if it didn’t concern him much.

The council reviewed past decisions, including a resolution from 14 August 1677. It stated that Crain Jernika had requested permission to sail to Brina and Sumbawa to gather exiled Makassares under orders from his king, just as Arou Teko was doing for the Bugis. Since their missions were ordered by their kings (Crain Saderbonij and Radja Bonij), not the Dutch East India Company (VOC), the council had previously decided to send Under-Merchant Francis Prins to monitor their actions.

After considering all this, the council noted that the missions of Crain Jernika and Arou Teko were not initiated by the Dutch but by their respective kings. The council would proceed accordingly.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0862  


On 20 July 1679, a report was sent from Makassar about recent events and plans. The writer mentioned that Jachie de Spiering or Jachie de Rog (or possibly both ships) would likely be sent back to Bima soon to collect rice, salt, and cadjang (a type of woven mat). The goods would be sent under proper invoices and receipts, and the Governor and Council of Bima were asked to record the transaction in their books to avoid confusion.

The trade in cloth on Bima with the kings of Bima, Dompo, and Tambora was not very profitable unless rice was supplied from Makassar or Banda. Any small gains from selling cloth in Bima were barely worth mentioning in the trading records.

On the same date, the ship Westervelt had not yet loaded sappanwood (a type of dyewood) in Buna or Sumbawa. Since there was no cargo, the ship was sent empty to Batavia. Earlier, a servant of Moor Codja Derwits had informed officials in Bima that only two small boats of sappanwood had arrived at the shipping point in Sumbawa.

The writer also discussed Derwits with Crain Jernike, who explained that Derwits had an old agreement with the king of Goa (likely Gowa) for 50 units of sappanwood (each 5 fathoms long, wide, and high). However, the current government refused to honor this, making it difficult for Derwits to repay his debts to the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

A small vessel from Surabaya, owned by a local named Orangie and loaded with salt, had arrived in Bima on its way to Amboina. It was delayed due to a leak and needed a new anchor after the old one broke. The ship’s officer did not know the exact date they left Surabaya.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0860  


On 20 July 1679, a report from Makassar described a political situation involving the kingdom of Wajo and the leadership of Paneki. The following key points were noted:

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0858  


On 20 July 1679, officials in Makassar addressed complaints from local leaders called boniers (local rulers) and the towadji (people of Wajo). They made sure the towadji promised not to wrong anyone in the future and to report any unfair treatment so the officials could help resolve it. The towadji thanked them and agreed.

The text also mentions a past conflict involving Raja Peneki (also called Arou Peneki), one of the four main kings of Wajo. Around 1663, Arou Amali (also known as Gabarang Tosawa) had pressured Raja Peneki—under orders from a higher authority—to step down from his rule. Despite this, Raja Peneki remained one of the four key kings who had signed a treaty with the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in 23 December 1670.

Another issue involved Lapatauw (also called the "Young Raja Palacca"), the nephew of Raja Bonij (born in Boni around 5 years earlier). He had been made king of Paneki in Towadje without the VOC’s knowledge. The officials noted that Towadje was under VOC control, yet Raja Palacca had not informed them of these changes. They decided not to confront Raja Bonij about it yet.

The officials also supported Arou Matouaij in reclaiming something unfairly taken from him by Aroutempe. When Aroutempe arrived at the fort, the officials mediated, and both sides agreed to work together to restore Arou Matouaij's rights. However, Arou Matouaij said he could not help with the issue of Paneki, where Lapatauw had been installed as king. He suggested discussing it further with Raja Bonij.

When asked why Raja Bonij had made Lapatauw king of Paneki, the response was that Lapatauw was the grandson of a former queen of Boni.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1347 / 0856  



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