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Fully AI-GeneratedUsers of Open Archives can have summaries generated from the recognized texts (transcriptions) produced through text recognition (OCR) and handwriting recognition (HTR). Neither of these artificial intelligence tasks is perfect, but they are often more than sufficient to make the historical document understandable. In the transcripts, names are underlined in green and clickable (to search the personal entries on Open Archives for the name in question), the recognized dates have a light gray background and recognized place names have a light purple background. The results of the application of (European) artificial intelligence have not been verified by a human.


On 2 February 1773, the Resident requested ammunition according to an attached list to be sent to Baros. The purpose was to carefully inspect the fortifications there and assess the enemy's strength. After evaluating the situation together with the Resident, they needed to determine whether the trading post with its current garrison could defend itself against the attacks of the mentioned Panglima Lauwt or not. If the fortifications were strong enough against the enemy's forces, the following actions were required: Because there were various matters to discuss with the Radja of Baros in person, they should try their best to persuade the Radja to come along for a short voyage with them. However, if they judged together with the Resident that the enemy's strength was so great that the garrison could not possibly defend against it, and there was any reason to fear that the Company's honor and goods might be exposed to danger, then different orders applied: The text noted that not all possible situations and circumstances could be described in this document.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0463  


Van der Burg sent a letter to the high authorities dated 5 April 1773.

The following documents were included:

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0465  


On 2 February 1773, officials discussed instructions for a resident and gave orders regarding a trading post (comptoir). They authorized the resident to work with local authorities in whatever situation might be found there. The officials instructed the resident to act based on good reasons and whatever circumstances would require, either to maintain or to break up the trading post. However, they strictly forbade any offensive military actions, which had to be carefully avoided. The officials wished the resident heaven's blessing and support for this task. After careful review and approval of these instructions, they decided to give them to commissioner Kaijsel to deliver to Baros. They ordered that Kaijsel should be sent to Baros as quickly as possible on the ship called the Ida Wilhelmina, which had been assigned by an earlier decision from 30 January. This decision was made at Padang on Sumatra's west coast on the date mentioned above. It was signed by Roeland Palm, A. F. Adami, I. Challier, I. Ehrentraut, and F. van Kerchem, who served as secretary. Thierens confirmed the document was accurate.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0464  


P. Luzao wrote from Java's east coast on 5 April 1773. At that moment he received a message about a distribution from Noessa through a copy of a letter from postmaster Steenbergen at Gitten. He sent a copy of this letter to the Commissioner at Adirogo and told him that if the boats were not there, he should respond in a friendly way to invitations to submit.

In response to a letter from 27th of the previous month which was delivered on the 10th of this month by a merchant from Sourabaya, Luzao answered that he had not yet been able to accomplish anything good. He had already responded to a letter from the 17th of the previous month on the 30th. He kept the regent Pafanagara friendly and made sure that the people who had gathered from the area around Cotta were divided among the villages under their leaders to continue farming. Pafanagara would travel to Samarang to request his confirmation as regent, as requested by the governor. The governor wanted to speak with him personally about his districts and people, which pleased the regent very much. The regent was now busy placing the people. Luzao heard secretly that great preparations were being made for this journey.

Luzao hoped that by the time Pafanagara left, someone suitable could be found among the people from Balemboan who were on Madura to be trusted with the leadership over this difficult people. He would let the regent leave under the mentioned excuse without giving him anything.

Quartermaster Perk arrived safely with his cargo belonging to quartermaster Alberts. Luzao had no other information about the third boat under a sailor except that it had to turn back towards the coast. Quartermaster De Gelder also arrived safely with his 3 boats loaded with provisions and was already being unloaded as quickly as possible. Luzao let him return with the 2 boats from Pamacassang and their sailors because the west winds were already starting to come through and the journey would otherwise become difficult. He sent back the boat that belonged there, along with the sick ensign and a European servant who had been given permission by the head of the expedition to accompany him.

Regarding the treatment of this people, Luzao made every effort according to the instructions from the high authorities and the governor and director. He told the regent and other native leaders to work in the friendliest way possible. According to reports received in recent days, there was new hope that the people from Balemboan, Bappa Larat and Endo, could still be brought under control, partly through the oldest woman with a child of Bappa Endo who was brought to him on the 9th of this month by the Hebbe officials.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0500  


On 5 April 173 (year incomplete in source), a report was sent from Java's east coast. The writer discussed plans to sail as high as possible north of Sumatra to patrol against pirates and keep watch. He requested humble information about how to handle the expenses and costs of these small ships in their records, and how their provisions should be arranged, questioning whether this should be treated as extraordinary expedition costs or regular household expenses. The writer received enclosed documents from Oeloepampang that showed how resident Schophoff was using his resources to achieve the goal regarding Javanagara. The writer had instructed Schophoff to capture and flatter Saxanagara in this manner, but under the condition that his actions be closely monitored to prevent any improper arrangements or harsh treatment of that wild community. The goal was to ensure Jacanagara became increasingly elevated and established in his opinion, so that after bringing everything into good order, he could make the journey to Samarang with his people. The writer additionally reported that the old radeen miti omantrie at Sidaijoe had communicated to him the death of the bepatti there, Soerokesoemo. To press the matter further, the writer had sent resident Schophoff a copy of a letter dated 24th of that month to quickly obtain his response and considerations. Upon receiving Schophoff's reply, the writer hoped to provide his humble considerations about Maas Alit and Bachus Manonrono, and whether it would be most advisable to appoint 1 or 2 regents over those districts.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0499  


View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0497  


On 5 April 1773, I. R. van der Burgh wrote from the east coast of Java about some letters that did not contain any information. He was waiting for clarification about how something was arranged in a previous expedition and which article in a contract with a prince was being referred to before he could make a statement about rice. He signed the letter as a good friend.

On 24 March 1773 in Samarang, van der Burgh confirmed the accuracy of the document.

Pieter Luzac, who held a position of authority, wrote from Soerabaja on 27 December 1772. He had received a separate letter dated 15 December containing an extract from a letter from the high authorities dated 9 December 1772. Most of the content concerned Balemboangang, so he immediately sent a full copy to the resident there. He was waiting to hear about dealings with the temporary regent of Jaxanagara. Since he had nothing important to report at that time, he respectfully signed the letter as an obedient servant.

In response to separate letters dated 21 December and 24 December, he confirmed receiving the instructions from the authorities' letter of 9 December. The instructions concerned the customs posts at Balemboangang, Lamadjang, Panaroekan, and Malang, which he forwarded to the relevant officials. He also provided extracts to captain lieutenant Heinrich about the expedition. On that same day, an expedition force was organized consisting of Madurese leaders Braja Singa and Sianataka, 7 common officers, 60 Madurese musketeers, and 440 pikemen, along with their provisions.

Another copy of a letter from the same authority was dated 30 December 1772.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0495  


On 5 April 1773, a letter was sent from Java's east coast. The writer stated he would wait for further explanation to support certain opinions, and hoped to find another person for an unspecified task. He expressed regret about the poor condition of the crew of a boat called the pantjallang, as he could not replace them with other sailors. However, he noted that local deserters could be publicly punished on the parade ground with cane beatings to discourage them from running away.

The writer was disappointed that a detachment under ensign Dijkman, which had been searching for rebel leaders Bappa Larat, Bappa Endo, Pa Som, Promp, and Wilondo, had returned without finding anything. Since a group of rebels had been discovered near the Klonkong river, showing they still had supporters, it was clear that complete peace could not be expected until all rebels were defeated. Therefore, it remained necessary to continue searching for them with willing troops to either capture them or prevent them from gathering and causing trouble again.

The writer noted that the Madurese soldiers had long been unwilling and useless according to reports, and their desertion was being overlooked. However, they should not be sent back, as that would give them an excuse in the future. Instead, the writer wanted to keep the option to demand others if necessary. Meanwhile, the Sumanapper forces at Adirogo needed to be brought up to full strength, as the 3 companies of Malays or Easterners currently in the Balembangan area were said to be very useful.

Regarding the island of Noessa, the writer approved orders to prevent the chief Bappa Janie from attempting a landing on Java. He agreed it was time to force the islanders, who would not listen to friendly requests, into submission through military force. He found the plan proposed by the Passoeroan commander Van Rijcke in his letter of 25 February acceptable. The willingness of the regent Nitinagara and the commander's request to both personally carry out the plan also deserved consideration. The writer would wait for detailed orders about the timing and method of the operation, including how many troops and boats would be needed, and whether the patrol boats that the regents in the east had to provide should be doubled.

A joint letter of that day showed that important payments had been granted to some regents, especially those of Sourabaija, to restore the land to its former state. These regents, now that they were on equal footing, had to completely fulfill their annual obligations without fail. This would apply this year if they kept their promise to ensure 500 koyangs of rice would come in before New Year from each regent, otherwise they would face unpleasant consequences.

The writer had questioned the prince of Madura about advancing 100 koyangs of rice to his chiefs. The prince confirmed receipt but claimed repayment had never been discussed. The writer wondered if each person could be employed with a couple of European sailors and other necessary supplies, in which case, while waiting for approval from their high authorities, preliminary arrangements could be made.

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View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0491  


On 5 April 173 (year incomplete), a letter was sent from Java's east coast. The writer had requested someone to prove alapalap's wrongdoings. The writer approved all friendly methods being used to bring the people of Noessa back under the Company's obedience. However, the writer did not approve of other approaches, especially not the plan of the resident Schophoff of Oeloepampang. According to his letter dated 4 February to the commander Sisser of Adirogo, Schophoff wanted to send a new expedition there. The addressee had apparently been gathering light vessels for this purpose, as shown in their letter of 20th (month not specified). The writer strongly objected to this because it went directly against the orders, intentions, and special wishes of Their High Honors in Batavia. These orders had been sent in a separate letter dated 9 December and forwarded to the addressee in extract form, along with the writer's own letter of 15th (month not specified). The writer suggested that the addressee had either forgotten these orders or understood them as poorly as the resident of Oeloepampang and the commander of Adirogo, with whom the orders had also been shared. The writer strongly recommended strict observance of these orders. The writer repeated Their High Honors' wishes: The writer could not overlook that ensign Cispoa had, without proper authorization and in cold blood, had hapo logo, the former chief of Dejemberse, executed. Since Cispoa was not authorized to do this, the writer had sharply reprimanded him and seriously warned him not to undertake anything similar again, or else he would face very unpleasant consequences. The writer wanted to oversee the agreed-upon repairs and renovations of the warehouses in Sourabaija and Gaissee.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0490  


I. R. van der Burgh wrote from Java's east coast on 5 April 1773 and 7 April 1773. He mentioned that they were being assisted with rice from Rawa. When the opportunity arose, all required timber for the eastern corner would be sent at once without loss. He would arrange for a skilled carpenter and copper coins as requested. He signed as a good friend.

Van der Burgh was still waiting for the promised consideration about a new regent for Balemboangang, with Maas Alit being a candidate. He had been pleased to learn from letters dated 27 January and 5 February about the departure of the former regent Jaxanagara from Oeloe Pampang to Costij. He recommended treating Jaxanagara kindly and suggested keeping him there until the shipping route opened, when he could travel by sea. However, Van der Burgh thought it best to keep the suspicious Krinkdono and 4 fugitives to Bali in custody. He also wanted Boedjaar, who claimed to have been a servant, and captain Alap sent overland immediately to confront Alap Alap, who was currently with his master's entourage and lying about everything, so he could be corrected for his bad behavior.

In another letter from Java's east coast dated 5 April 1773, Van der Burgh discussed the escape of the rebel Larat after he had been caught. This did not surprise him but raised harmful suspicions about those responsible for guarding him. He considered it necessary for resident Schophoff to investigate the matter thoroughly. Those who had given Larat the opportunity to escape or had not taken proper care should not be trusted but watched carefully. The women and others from the rebel's group who had been captured would be sent by sea.

Van der Burgh would present the account of extraordinary expenses to their High Honors and request reimbursement. Following the request, he would provide the eastern corner with military support as soon as Batavia enabled him to do so. With one of the first ships arriving on the coast to load cargo, he intended to have the timber currently stored in Japara, Joana, and Rembang for Soerabaja and Crissee collected and transported there. Care should be taken that a full ship's cargo of rice was in stock before the shipping route to Batavia opened, as the regents had promised. The opposite would not please their High Honors, especially since there was no precedent for Soerabaja delivering less rice than during this period, particularly in 1772. As a result, counting the quota for 1773, Soerabaja was now behind by approximately 2,500 kojangs of rice.

According to separate letters dated 20 February and 22 February and their attachments, Van der Burgh approved the measures planned and implemented in Balemboangang to track down and capture the still-wandering main rebels Bappa Larat, Bappa Endo, Pa Simpring, and Wilondo. He very much wanted to hear about the desired outcome. After resident Schophoff had informed about the general opinion regarding Maas Alit as a candidate for regent instead of Japanagara, who was currently in Soerabaja

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0488  


On April 5, 1773, a letter was written from the east coast of Java. The ratoe (a local ruler) informed a woman that he was learning to make decorative trimmings and asked if she could kindly provide him with some lace, which he needed for this work. He sent greetings to the brother, the woman, and the children. This letter was written in Surabaya on the second day of the month Bazar 1698 and was translated by C. P. Boltze, who worked as a translator. J. A. van der Burgh confirmed the translation was accurate.

In response to letters from December 27 and 30, 1772, the writer stated he was pleased to hear about the sending of more than 500 Madurese people to Valemboangang. He hoped to soon receive news that followers of Sumanappers for Adirogo and illnesses among the local people would have stopped. When this happened, people from Surabaya, Grisee, and Sidayu, especially those from the first location, should be sent home. However, ensign Tisscher would need to stay there with some Europeans until further orders, because the authorities could not yet trust the local district leaders in that area.

The writer discussed prisoner transport. The question was not whether the authorities of the ship Velsen were willing to transport prisoners, but how many war prisoners they could safely take to Banda. The ship Vlietlust would transport 42 prisoners from there, and the writer believed the Velsen would have room for at least the same number. The writer stated he was not authorized to allow certain prisoners to be executed and have their heads displayed, but prisoners who could not be transported to Banda should be sent back when shipping resumed.

Several vessels (the pantjallang, the bark, and the Bestendigheid) were sent to be used wisely where the Company's interests required it. When these vessels served Balemboangang, that location should also bear the costs of the expedition. The writer trusted this had always been observed, even regarding the pantjallangs that belonged to the recipient, when something extra was provided for service or the journey to Oeloepampang. The letter was signed by I. R. van der Burgh in Samarang on the date mentioned above.

In a separate letter from January 22, 1773, written by governor Van der Burgh to commander Luzac in Surabaya, Javanese letters were enclosed. These were letters exchanged between ensign and commander at Adirogo, Frederik Tisser, and the head of the island Noessa, Juragan Janie. The content contained little of substance. It appeared Juragan Janie had no intention of submitting to the Company but seemed to be hiding other objectives through deception. Therefore, if ensign Tisser met with Juragan Janie at the Soeger river as requested and their conversation had no effect, it would be best to cut off all correspondence with those islanders. They should prevent all travel to and from Java and especially stop the transport of provisions there. The writer expected further investigation would be done into whether this was truly necessary.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0486  


  • On 5 April 1713 (appears to be 1773 based on context), correspondence was exchanged regarding disputes over land ownership on Java's east coast.
  • J. R. van der Burgh, Governor and Director of the coast, received a letter along with Javanese documents concerning resolved disputes about several villages (negorijen), dessas, and Tjatjas.
  • These disputes had been settled by representatives and chief officers from Stralendorp and Lapro, and the decision was made with fairness and mutual agreement.
  • Orders were given to sign and seal the documents and to create a register of all lands, villages, dessas and Tjatjas that belonged to the Sultan and were actually in his possession.
  • This register would be reviewed and sealed in the presence of both parties' representatives at Samarang to prevent future disputes.
  • The letter writer thanked the Company (the Dutch East India Company) for their efforts during this troublesome matter.
  • Two subjects were returned: one named Kamaloeden from the dessa Kalessan, who had tried to sneak into the Soesoehoenan's Kraton (palace), and another named Noro Merto from the dessa Kademakkan, who was accused of involvement with cannons.
  • Kamaloeden was punished with eternal banishment to the wilderness of Kafarean in the Patjitan area, but Noro Merto could not be punished because the accusations from Surakarta subjects were false.
  • Regarding an elephant that had been requested from Their High Mightinesses, the Sultan would wait patiently until it arrived from Ceylon.
  • The Sultan promised to send his stable master to Samarang in 1 to 2 months to select some Bimanese horses, as the brother had kindly offered.
  • Greetings were sent from Pangerang Adipattij Anom and the lady according to the Ratoe (queen).
  • The letter was written in Djojocarta on the 2nd of the month Besar 1648 (Islamic calendar).
  • The translation was made by C. P. Boltze, translator.
  • A second similar letter was received from Soesoehoenan Pakoeboeana at Samarang on 26 February 1773, confirming receipt of the correspondence and agreement to ratify, sign and seal the documents, and to create a complete register of all lands, villages, dessas and Tjatjas under his possession.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0484  


I. R. van der Burgh wrote from Java's east coast on 5 April 1773. Long-standing difficult disputes over some villages or areas called dessas and tatjas had finally been settled and decided. These disputes were resolved by the ministers of the King and of the Susuhunan (a Javanese ruler), in the presence of the Dutch officials Straalendorff and Lapro. Van der Burgh was very happy about this.

He had the papers that the officials sent him translated into the Javanese language. He sent these papers along so that the King could see for himself how fairly everything had been handled. Van der Burgh did not doubt that the King, together with the Susuhunan and himself, would be satisfied with the division and arrangement that had been made. He was confident that everything would be approved by the King.

Van der Burgh asked that orders be given not only to have these papers signed and sealed on both sides (by the King and by the Susuhunan), but also to have proper registers made as soon as possible of the lands that belonged to the King and that he actually possessed. According to an earlier agreement, Van der Burgh wanted to be present himself when these registers were checked and sealed by the ministers and officials in Samarang. This would prevent such disputes once and for all.

Two subjects of the King had been sent to Van der Burgh from Solo:

  • One named Kamaloedien from the village Kalessan, who had tried to sneak armed into the Susuhunan's palace
  • Another named Noro Merto from the village Kademakkan, who was accused of plotting with some people from Eramans

Van der Burgh sent these two criminals to the official Lapro to be handed over to the King. He did not doubt that the King would make them experience the punishment they deserved for their evil actions, as a warning to others.

Radeen Adipattij Danoeridsa had written to Van der Burgh that one of the King's elephants had died. Van der Burgh had already asked the High Authorities to request another one from Ceylon. If the King would send his stable master in 1 or 2 months, Van der Burgh would let him choose from some horses from Bima for the King.

Van der Burgh sent greetings to the King and to Prince Adipattij Mancoenogoro with all his heart. His wife also sent greetings.

A copy of a letter from the undersigned to the Sultan was dated Samarang 16 February 1773. Another copy of a letter from the undersigned to the Susuhunan was also dated Samarang 16 February 1773. These letters contained similar information about the settlement of disputes over villages and lands between the King and the Sultan, and between the King and the Susuhunan.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0482  


On 5 April 1778, commander Luzac from Java's east coast submitted an account for extraordinary expenses that occurred during the year 1772 for the expedition, totaling 46 guilders and 36 stuivers. He requested approval for payment and write-off of these costs.

The Palembang leader Suragan Badar would not be taken to court upon his arrival regarding the conquest by pirates of the private vessel Sara Margaretha, as there was no sufficient evidence, following the authorities' instructions. Luzac would strictly follow the recommendation to ensure that the tax farmers of the domains paid their taxes on time.

Luzac forwarded a request from senior merchant and first resident at the sultan's court in Djojocarta, Ian Lapro, who asked to be relieved from his position and transferred to the main settlement in order to request transport to the Netherlands the following year. Luzac recommended granting this request favorably, as Lapro had always given complete satisfaction in his service. However, Luzac personally would have preferred if Lapro had been persuaded to abandon his wish to resign and return to the fatherland.

Luzac proposed merchant and second resident at the emperor's court Ian Matthijs van Rhijn as Lapro's replacement, as he had learned to interact with princes and nobles in particular and with the native population in general, and had knowledge of the current state of affairs. Van Rhijn would receive his current title and rank next to the youngest senior merchant, according to the authorities' determination in their general letter of 29 July 1767.

For Van Rhijn's position, Luzac proposed the 12-year bookkeeper Abraham van Heemert to become second secretary and salary bookkeeper in Soeracarta with the title of junior merchant, as he possessed all required qualities better than other servants at the coast who might otherwise be considered.

The sultan was always mindful of everything that nurtured his glory and ambition and was very attentive to whether equality between him and the emperor was maintained everywhere. He therefore noticed with concern that in Soeracarta there was a second resident who accompanied his greatest enemy Maas Said (who held the title of Pangerang Adipattij) at all solemn occasions in public, while his beloved son, who held the same title or that of crown prince at his court, had no one to accompany him at similar occasions.

According to the instructions, a junior merchant was designated for this position, and previously there had even been a second resident with the rank of merchant in 1764. A second resident was required just as much as in Soeracarta to take over affairs in case of illness or absence of the first resident and to function as sworn secretary keeping the salary books, which currently caused much embarrassment and double work for the salary clerks who already had plenty of work.

Luzac therefore proposed to the authorities to again place a second resident in Djojocarta and respectfully nominated the junior merchant and salary bookkeeper Paulus Jacobus de Blij for this position, maintaining his current rank or title. Due to his long stay on this coast, together with the previously mentioned Van Heemert, he had the prospect of fulfilling these positions. Both would receive the rank that the previous second residents at the courts Luzac and Lapro had held, according to the authorities' general letter of 1 May 1764.

Finally, Luzac requested approval to make a journey to inspect the offices and regencies in the west, to be held at

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0480  


On 5 April 1738, a report was written from the east coast of Java about activities in the Krayagang area, where someone had visited bird's nest cliffs to collect nests. The writer believed it was necessary to remove all hope from the rebels who were still roaming around and to prevent those from Nusa from being strengthened by help from Bali, Mandhaer, and other places where they seemed to place their hopes. The writer argued that peace in that area could not be secure as long as the island was not brought back under the Company's control. Since the islanders did not respond to friendly appeals, the writer proposed using force to make them submit. The writer found the plan suggested by the commander of Passerouang, van Rijke, in his letters of 25 February and 24 March acceptable. The commander and the brave regent there, Niti Nagarra, offered to carry out the operation themselves. They could use the pantjallangs (boats), the bark, and the defenses that were already in that area, as well as employ some of the ships that the regents had to prepare against pirates. Regarding the Balemboan affairs, the writer submitted something to the high authorities. The writer requested permission to follow the plan with some changes he thought advisable. He respectfully asked for reinforcement with some soldiers and sailors, because:
  • The continuing high death rate in the eastern corner meant more than 100 men were lacking from the required number along the coast
  • Sailors were so scarce that the 2 mentioned pantjallangs could barely be manned
  • There was constant demand to provide sailors to arriving ships to replace their sick crew members
  • Ship captains rarely sent their sick to shore as long as there was hope of recovery on board
  • Most of these sick sailors found their graves there
  • In March alone, 10 sailors from the ships Gouverneur Generaal and Barbara Theodora had been buried from the hospital
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0479  


A report was written from 5 April 1773 about leadership issues in several regions of Java's east coast. The writer did not trust someone (name unclear from text) to take on the government of a regency alone, partly because locals might see him as a foreigner and possibly someone born in Bali, which would make him unsuitable. The writer was also concerned that if certain points mentioned by resident Schophoff in his letter of 14 March were confirmed, this person's merits would decrease significantly. For the Tinkelsewoesche area, the writer requested that someone familiar with the region be appointed who had connections to the regents of Joana Pattij or Damak and could quickly get assistance when needed. The writer asked for favorable consideration of Marts Nipojo. Regarding Maas Alit, reports indicated:
  • His father had been grand minister under Prince Pattij in Balemboangang and was always well-respected
  • According to resident Schophoff's letter of 25 February, the current ministers Loera and other minor heads were very willing to accept Maas Alit as their regent
  • Since Jacanagara's departure left no bad consequences and affairs were being managed successfully by two ministers, there seemed no urgency to rush the appointment
Commander Luzac suggested in his letter of 12 March that the election could wait until common people in the villages were divided and placed under their minor heads. The writer had not yet proceeded with appointing a regent. A proposal was made to divide the land under two regents: the eastern part under Maas Alit and the western part under a certain Soemodirono, who was in Samarang and had been advisor and guardian of the current second regent of Soerabaja. However, the writer wanted to wait for investigation results among the common people and information about whether the two ministers who had been managing affairs since Jacanagara's departure continued to give satisfaction and could be trusted. The writer suggested provisionally appointing Maas Alit as regent without specific district assignment, while postponing judgment on dividing the lands and appointing a second regent until peace was fully restored and knowledgeable people had investigated the extent and condition of the lands, the location, size and population of the villages. Regarding the island of Noessa, the writer had previously on 4 March rejected plans to take a chance on Noessa and insisted on strict observance of orders from 9 December 1772. However, on 12 March the writer approved orders to prevent a plan that, according to unconfirmed rumors, the head Bappa Sanie (allegedly from Bancahoeloe) was said to have devised to make a landing on Java near Twee Gillem.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0477  


  • On 5 April 1773, a report was sent from Java's east coast about various matters at the local courts, where everything was going well.
  • The emperor had recently sent the reporter two Javanese men: one who had tried to sneak armed into the emperor's palace, and another who was accused of being a troublemaker. Both claimed to be subjects of the Malaam court.
  • The reporter sent both men to Djojocarta with orders to chief Lapro to hand them over to the sultan for punishment.
  • The sultan permanently banished the first man to the desert of Karabean (described as a very unpleasant place in the Pajitaan region), even though it appeared he had committed his offense during a fever. The second man was declared innocent and freed.
  • The sultan mentioned during this incident that he would prefer such matters between him and the emperor to be handled without the involvement or knowledge of the Company.
  • The reporter instructed chief Lapro to let this pass unnoticed, but to refer any further issues directly to the reporter.
  • The reporter asked the authorities for their opinion on this matter, believing it was best to keep the princes from thinking they were independent and from trusting each other too much, by maintaining current practices as long as this could be done without causing offense.
  • Regarding the situation in Balemboan, the authorities would find details in letters exchanged with commander Euzac during the year (copies enclosed).
  • The search for the main rebel leaders Bappa Larat, Bappa Endo, Pa Soemprong, and Wilondo had so far been unsuccessful.
  • Bappa Larat had been captured by a group of loyal men from Palemboan but escaped again due to poor supervision by his guards.
  • There was ongoing sickness and death among both Europeans and local people, with locals continuously deserting.
  • The people from Madura were unwilling to serve; although recently reinforced by 400 to 500 men, they were said to be useless due to their bad behavior.
  • The reporter ordered that desertions by the Madura people should be overlooked but they should not be ordered back, as this would give them an excuse in the future. However, if they deserted on their own, this would provide a reason to require others in case of emergency.
  • Instead, the reporter pressed for completing the Sumanappers force to 200 men at Adirogo, as they seemed necessary to block the western route for the remaining rebels and prevent them from Moessa, in case they tried to undertake something toward Gittem Batoe Deloe and then toward Lamadjang.
  • Due to the great weakness of the Europeans (who were of little use) and 3 Company men from the east, the reporter gave permission to recruit people from across the water (not Javanese) for this purpose, hoping the authorities would approve this.
  • The reporter requested permission to send back Captain Lieutenant Henrich (who was currently in Sourabaija recovering his health) to the main station if he could be spared, along with an extra fireworks expert or the only remaining artillerist, since extra Lieutenant Smedeken had recently died.
  • The regent of Taxanagara had left Balemboan at
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0475  


Luzac was ordered to pay the only remaining debt for received money, totaling 5,600 rijksdaalders. The employees together were reminded again of the old letter from 4 November 1771 not to keep more than 5,000 rijksdaalders, since the cash balance at the end of February had amounted to 2,800 rijksdaalders and 16 stuivers.

Regarding the construction of a new residence for the resident in Rembang, the writer asked to refer to what was mentioned in the general letter being sent. For the major repairs needed to the stone piers of the bridge in Japara, a specification and cost estimate would be prepared and submitted once engineer Soutman returned from Surakarta and Yogyakarta.

Instructions were sent to Surabaya for the carpenter foreman Dexter, who had traveled there, to provide a cost estimate for repairing the small fort at Triffel and constructing a new wall behind it. However, making a plan for rebuilding the Belvidera redoubt and arranging proper storage places for gunpowder and weapons in Surabaya would remain postponed until the engineer could be spared from his current work on fortifications and warehouses.

Following the qualification in the respected letters from 8 December 1712, the writer opened, read, and properly resealed letters from the Javanese governor. The writer thanked for the trust placed in him. The letters would remain in his keeping and their contents would be observed when necessary. Proper records were made at the secretariat and he would ensure nothing of their content leaked out.

The princes, according to the writer's letters to them and their replies (copies included under L: A: and B.), had fully confirmed themselves with the settlement of village disputes. Work was currently progressing successfully on exchanging and returning lands to each party, after which the register of each share would be started.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0474  


5 April 1773, from Java's east coast, it was stated that 1,000 coijangs (units) of rice needed to be delivered completely. This was ordered under threat of punishment as written in article 3 of the contract agreement passed on 20 October 1772. However, there was fear that they would not be able to meet their promises for this year due to lack of workers to help with farming.

The debts for 1771 and 1772 had been reduced in January and February to 1,471 coijangs. A reduction was granted, bringing the total down to 1,538 coijangs. It was ordered that rice delivered after 1 March would be used to reduce the debt for the current year. This change was made in favor of the company, since 67 coijangs that had been delivered were already counted toward reducing the previous year's debts. It was hoped this adjustment would be approved.

Efforts were made to convince the most important regents that by leasing out their territories and lands they were harming themselves and burdening their subjects. It was expected that many would be more careful about this in the future. They would help prevent being further exploited by the hardworking nature of the Chinese. The problem of Chinese influence had become too deeply rooted and needed to be stopped, as the deep penetration of that nation was harmful.

A request was made for permission to renew the prohibition against bringing newcomers to this coast. The number of newcomers was already very large everywhere and kept growing through frequent arrivals from Banjarmasin, Pasir, Palembang, Riau, Johor, Terengganu, and other places where junks (boats) came from.

The old contracts of the various regents would be renewed from time to time with necessary changes and additions, following the authorization given. Surabaya's officials were not only informed of the prohibition against further circulation of whole and half duits (coins) on credit in exchange for silver coins, but were instead permitted to receive up to 5 percent in copper coins in cash from lease payments from time to time. The same would also happen here.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0473  


  • Petrus Albertus van der Parra served as Governor General alongside the Council members of the Dutch East India Company in the Dutch East Indies.
  • A letter dated 2 March was received, along with secret correspondence and attachments from Java's east coast covering the period from 5 April to 25 August 1773.
  • The writer expressed gratitude for approval of his actions during his journey to Surabaya and regarding matters concerning Palembang and other affairs.
  • The regents of Demak were granted permission to cut wood for the Company in their own forests, with an obligation to deliver 1,000 beams annually to Kudus.
  • In 1774 and the following year, they also had to deliver the 1,000 beams that were still owed for 1771 and 1772 at Kaliwungu.
  • Cutting wood for anyone other than the Company was forbidden, with penalties of fines for regents and imprisonment for common people who violated this rule or damaged the forests.
  • The ruler of Madura paid the 60 oijangs of copper coins he owed for 1772 in cash at 50 rijksdaalders per oijang.
  • Thanks were expressed on behalf of the regents of Japara, Sumenep, Pamekasan, Surabaya, Lamongan, and Malang, as well as the Paccalongang officials, for favorable decisions made regarding proposals in their favor.
  • The first regent of Japara received the honorary title of adipati along with an increase in his share and additional villages.
  • He and his colleague received a reduction of 1,000 beams and an increase in buffalo payments for the remaining beams they still had to deliver annually, along with other granted remissions.
  • The Paccalongang officials would soon have 1,000 patjas returned to them that had been taken from them against specific orders.
  • The regents of Surabaya were specifically told they could expect no more reductions and had to ensure their reduced delivery quota of 1,000 was met in the current and following years.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0471  


A letter was received dated 2 March of the most recent year. This letter was addressed to Petrus Albertus van der Parra, who served as Governor General, along with the Council members of Netherlands India. The letter concerned various territories and peoples, including the Tongse territories and peoples, the Pradjakan territories and peoples, and the Sobrangse and Djambers territories. Additionally, secret letters and attachments were received from Java's east coast between 5 April and 25 August 1773, relating to Cheribon and Bantam.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0470  


This document is a list or index of various letters, reports, and declarations related to Dutch colonial administration in Java. The documents date from 26 April 1773 to 25 August 1773.

The records include:

  • Copies of letters between van der Burgh (a Dutch official) and Luzac, the commander at Sourabaya, written on 26 April 1773, May 1773, 27 June 1773, 9 May 1773, and 4 June 1773
  • A document of alliance from the regent of the district of Tjinkelsen, following Marta Widjo
  • A declaration from 10 January 1773 by the local leader Pepatij Adien P' Jondro Rogoro, the clerk Radoen Soero Dirone, and official Soero Dewertje about the poor condition of the district of Toeban
  • A confirmation document from 10 January 1773 regarding statements given by local officials
  • 4 declarations by Javanese individuals Setjd Wigoend, Polla Singo, Wet Jono, and Nello Soeto
  • A document from the Lieutenant of the Empire to commander Luzac about their mission along the southern sea and the military posts at Bambang, Gestem Plindo, Poeger, and Batoe Oeloe
  • An overview of ships, European and native military forces needed for an attack
  • A report from commander Burghard on the ship "de Bestendigheid" to resident Schophoff about his survey of the harbor at Sackum
  • A report from resident Schophoff and officials Jenigen and Kregel about their findings in Banjoewangie
  • A brief description of the village Sontang provided by official Soetanning
  • A letter dated 30 June 1773 from resident Schophoff at Balemboangang to commander Luzal
  • A report about the Centong region and places in front of the island Moessa
  • Considerations about Balemboangang from commander Luzac to their High Excellencies
  • A secret letter dated 25 August 1773 from governor van der Burgh to their High Excellencies
  • A copy of a translated Javanese document about an expedition to Moessa
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0469  


The Political Council in Padang on Sumatra's West Coast held meetings from 30 January to 2 February 1773. The council discussed several matters:

  • They talked about the situation in Priamang and whether people could travel to Baros. Someone answered that everything was calm and ready to receive the commission, but it was necessary to have the raja come from there. Officials would need to persuade him through friendly means.
  • Instructions were prepared for ensign Kaijsel, which would be given to him so he could travel to Baros.
  • A letter from Baros was read, reporting that a Panglima Lauwt was appearing in those districts again. The resident feared an attack and requested a small boat and other supplies. A Malay letter was also sent that confirmed this report.
  • After considering these reports and remembering events from 1771, the council decided to send ensign L. Kaijsel to Baros with the requested ammunition and supplies. He would receive proper instructions.
  • On 2 February, ensign Kaijsel arrived and was summoned before the council.
  • Commander Roeland Palm, chief merchant and commander over Sumatra's West Coast, presented a private letter from Baros to the meeting.

The council members present included: D.E. Adam Frederik Adami (merchant and first administrator), Challier (junior merchant), Joseph (departing secretary of politics and elected chief of Poulo Chineo), Iesaias Ehrentzaut (junior merchant and fiscal officer), Frans van Kerchem (junior merchant and 2nd administrator), and Ian Marthin Scheffer (ensign and head of the militia).

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0458  


March 19, 1773, a report was sent from Malacca. Both brothers stated that they wanted to be warned some time in advance before any breakup would happen. They also showed fear and asked the commander not to interpret their refusal in a bad way. They said that if the East India Company decided to break up many things at once, they might sometimes change their mind. However, because all of this was uncertain guessing, no one could rely on it.

It was certain that the post at Pera was very important for the East India Company for various reasons. These reasons had been explained most clearly by former governor Mister Thomas Schippers and second-in-command Kretschiar in their separate letter of September 15, 1772 to the High Lords.

After careful consideration, it was decided to report all these circumstances respectfully to the High Lords at the first opportunity. In the meantime, while waiting for the positive orders from the High Lords, they would continue to operate at Pera in the old way. They did not feel authorized to break things up because no final decision had yet been made by the highest authorities.

View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0455  



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