Transcriptions » Recently created summaries of historical documents

On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar reported that 32 Portuguese people, including 13 enslaved individuals, had arrived. To avoid legal complications, they were temporarily placed in the Dutch East India Company (VOC) hospital, where they received food and drink until they could be transported. Several ships were later used to send them away, hoping this action would meet with approval.

A small sum of 48 and 3/8 rixdollars (a type of currency) was collected by local orphanage officials (Weesmeesteren) and deposited into the Company’s cash fund. The officials requested this amount be returned to the orphanage directors in Batavia.

The document also listed details of ships in Macassar on 5 October 1723, all bound for Batavia unless noted otherwise:

• Pompelmoes: Length 60 ft, width 19 ft, depth 10 ft. Crew: 10 men. Armed with 4 iron cannons and 4 small metal guns. Included a small boat with 4 oars.
• Bony: Length 60 ft, width 11 ft, depth 8 ft. Crew: 12 men. Armed with 6 small metal guns.
• Wantrouw: Length 60 ft, width 15 ft, depth 6 ft. Crew: 8 men. Armed with 6 small metal guns. Needed repairs: new stern and side planks, a new gangway, interior supports, outer planks, and a new roasting spit.
• Oppas: Length 61 ft, width 17 ft, depth 7 ft. Crew: 12 men. Armed with 9 small metal guns.
• Casuwaris: Length 55 ft, width 16.5 ft, depth 4.5 ft. Crew: 10 men. Armed with 8 small bronze guns. Needed repairs: new keel, planks over the hull, and outer planks.
• Beschermer: Length 54 ft, width 12 ft, depth 6 ft. Crew: 8 men. Armed with 8 small bronze guns. Needed repairs: new bow and stern timber, new rails, rigging, a tent, and side planks.
• Schouw Adam: Length 40 ft, width 12 ft, depth 4 ft. Crew: 4 men. Needed repairs: new main structural pieces at bow and stern, new decks, interior supports, and side planks.
• Schouw Eva: Length 40 ft, width 12 ft, depth 4 ft. Crew: 4 men. Needed repairs: a new tent, rigging, interior supports, and side planks.
• Groote Landschuyt (Large Government Boat): Length 40 ft, width 7.5 ft, depth 3.5 ft. Rowed with 10 oars. Needed repairs: new keel, interior supports, hull planks, stern, and decorative stern piece.
• Cleyne Landschuyt (Small Government Boat): Length 30 ft, width 7 ft, depth 3 ft. Rowed with 8 oars. Needed repairs: new side boards, hull planks, and interior supports.

The report was signed by multiple officials, including J.P. Sipman, J. Happon, Joan Steenhof, A.V.D. Anker, Jan Landheer, and P.V.D. Snippe on 21 October 1723. The ship details were recorded by Ary Zybrantsz Baart and approved by A. Luykenpr, the secretary, on 5 October 1723.

On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar sent sealed documents to higher authorities. These included:

• Records from orphans' guardians (E weesmeesteren) and church leaders (kerkenraad) about children being sent away.
• Official papers like meeting notes (resolutien), letter logs, ship improvement records, and trade reports (all organized with notes).
• A book of 4 criminal trial records, meant to be reused for bedding to save costs.
• Recent payroll books for local (Macassar) soldiers, plus a reviewed copy of the 1722 payroll by Stephanus Versluys (head accountant), approved by the governor.

Claas de Witt, the head surgeon, requested to leave his job on 11 August due to poor eyesight and dizziness. His request was granted, and Jan van Westen replaced him. After Arend Hendriksz (bookkeeper and police secretary) died on 25 September, Anthony Luyken took his role, with Hendrik van Ryt as assistant.

The resident of Bima, Abraham Walburg, asked for one of 87 open junior merchant positions. The officials supported his request.

A citizen, Hendrik Zandyk, prepared his ship (pantsjallang) to sail to Batavia. The officials sent this letter with him, noting shortages from their last shipment (6 June), including:

• 50 picols of wax (seized by Goenij pirates).
• 316¼ pounds of deer horn (some unusable).
• Repair costs of ƒ2,715 for a ship called Caret.

They couldn’t get green cloth (Cadjang) or slaves but hoped to obtain some next year. The ship also carried 8 Portuguese survivors from a wrecked ship, Nostra Senjora de Adjuda Pt Crux de P=lo Monika, captained by Jan Baptista de Silva. It hit rocks near Sapanjang on 6 July, forcing the crew to abandon ship. After 3 days adrift, a local boat (gonting) rescued them.

• On 28 September 1723, officials reported from Macassar about a local leader named Dain Mareewa, who neglected his duties. Instead of overseeing his master’s lands and presenting the Dutch East India Company (VOC) officials with the king’s crops when requested, he chose to fight.
• The officials had to leave unexpectedly and went to the village of Pitijlle to find rice to confiscate. They discovered about 4,000 bundles of rice hidden in houses. The local leader, the Pennang, claimed 3,000 bundles belonged to the king and were meant to feed plowmen during the west monsoon.
• The officials warned that if those in authority (like Dain Mareewa) acted dishonestly, ordinary people would likely cheat on the VOC’s taxes too, especially in bad harvest years like this one. The poor harvest was blamed on heavy rain in May and dry, hot winds that removed moisture from the fields.
• Regarding lands in Caraijn Tiamba (in the Barras province), consisting of 83 plots, locals called boniers had forcibly taken them from Carayn. The officials could not fully resolve this because the boniers' chief, Aroe Harroang, was absent. Some small fields had allegedly been sold for 12, 18, or 24 stuivers (a type of coin).
• The report was signed by Hendrik Duuirveld and J. Landman and submitted to Johannes Philippus Sipman, the Governor and Director of Macassar, along with the council. The document was delivered by Pieter van der Snippe (a temporary merchant) and Hendrik Duirvelt.
• Earlier that day, the officials had visited Boutuale on orders. They were introduced to local leaders, including the tontangon and gallarang, by a man named Willem Muller.

On 13 April 1723, officials in Makassar wrote about the case of Michiel van d'Rijke, a sergeant in the service of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). He was initially deemed qualified for his position but soon got into a conflict with Corporal Hendrik Kortman. The dispute led to a duel, where Van d'Rijke wounded Kortman, who died 19 days later.

The fiscal (prosecutor) Abraham van den Anker then started a criminal case against Van d'Rijke, gathering evidence and presenting it to the Council of Justice. However, the kings of Gowa and Bone, especially the king of Bone, repeatedly requested a pardon for Van d'Rijke. They asked that he face no punishment or loss of rank. Due to pressing reasons, the officials granted the pardon on 31 December 1722, as documented in their resolution.

The officials sent two key documents to higher authorities for approval:

• The pardon decision for Van d'Rijke (document no. 3).
• The case files and evidence against him (document no. 4).

Additionally, they reported expenses of ₷1,398:12:8 (Dutch guilders) for provisions meant for the ship Belvliet. Since they couldn’t supply the ship at Cadjang, they ordered the resident Abraham Walburg in Bima to handle it.

The letter also mentioned that Georgius Henricus Werendij, a reverend, had deposited ₷1,200 into the company’s cash account via a bill of exchange, to be returned upon approval.

The letter was signed by several officials, including Joannes Philippus Sipman (Governor and Director), J. Happon, J. Steenhoff, H. van den Anker, Jan Lantsleen, and C. van der Snippe, on 11 April 1723 in the Castle Rotterdam in Makassar.

• The report was written by Jan Lantsheer and approved by Anthonie Luyken, the acting secretary, in Macassar on May 31, 1723, summarizing agreements made with local rulers in August 1723, March 24, 1723, and April 6, 1723.
• The document was submitted to Johannes Philippus Sipman, Governor and Director of the Dutch East India Company (VOC), detailing a mission to collect the Company’s share (one-tenth) of the rice harvest in Maros and nearby regions (Zeegery, Labattan, Bongero, Siang, and Barras).
• Jan Lantsheer received orders on August 14, 1723, left for Maros the next morning, and began harvesting on August 18, finishing on September 6 before departing on September 8.
• After 5 years of collecting the VOC’s rice tax, Lantsheer noted that farmers in Bone had produced unusually large rice bundles in 1723, cheating the Company. Normally, farmers paid a tax of 27 gantangs (a weight measure) per 1,000 bundles, as agreed in 1722 with the King of Bone.
• However, in 1723, some bundles contained over 100 gantangs of rice, reducing the VOC’s rightful share. Officials in Bone also hid extra rice in the Company’s storage to avoid taxes, as seen in Barras (village of Taraweang), where a relative of the King of Bong had planted crops but died before harvest. His 3,000 bundles grew to 7,000–8,000, yet the local leader (Jennang) claimed no tax was owed because the workers were the king’s slaves.
• Lantsheer disagreed, stating only the King of Bone had tax exemptions from the VOC. The Jennang was fined 115 gantangs of rice for his actions.
• Similar tax evasion was found in Pitijelle, where the second Jennang of Bone resided.

• On August 31, 1723, a record was made in Macassar (now Makassar) listing ships and their trade activities. The document includes names of local leaders, types of vessels, and trade goods.
• The list mentions various groups and their leaders, such as:
  • Mattoa, leader of the Wadjoreesen (people from Buton), with 1 ship carrying goods worth 710 units.
  • Toe Soani with 1 ship carrying goods worth 310 units.
  • Poanna Collo with 1 ship carrying goods worth 310 units.
  • Toemona with 1 ship carrying goods worth 314 units.
• Other notable entries include:
  • Ange Zeyna with 1 ship carrying goods worth 511 units.
  • Sajedie with 1 ship carrying goods worth 714 units.
  • Toesoeni with 1 ship carrying goods worth 615 units.
  • Dato Pamana with 1 ship carrying goods worth 312 units.
• Larger ships called "groot oud sloep" (large old sloops) and "gout pants" were also recorded, with transport costs listed as 1075.8 units and 810 units, respectively.
• The document notes that in this year, there were 4 more "gontings" (small ships) than the previous year. Some ships arrived with passes from the Dutch authorities, such as:
  • The Wadjorees Tosie.
  • The Boeginees Tolban on February 23, 1723.
• Additional ships and their trade values are listed, such as:
  • Care Todsing with goods worth 410 units.
  • To Massa with goods worth 38 units.
  • Tomoso with goods worth 310 units.
  • Ladio with goods worth 322 units.
• The document also records a "Lawana" with goods worth 313 units and a "toesi" with goods worth 6 units.
• Some entries mention locations such as the rivers of Tello and Sanderbonij, where ships like the Ange Assing and Carian Pandra Bonij were active.

On 21 October 1723, a report from Macassar listed soldiers and sailors of the Dutch company who were discharged as Emeritus (retired) due to age, health, or long service. The following men were honorably released:

• Matthys Ravens from Haarlem, enlisted in 1693, discharged in 1711 at age 63 after losing his hearing.
• Sybrand Munnik from Weesel, enlisted in 1688, discharged at age 63 as a trumpeter.
• Jan Baptist Libert from Aken, enlisted in 1710, discharged in 1721 at age 50 after being convicted of desertion.
• Christiaan Lambregts, enlisted in 1700, discharged in 1715 at age 66 due to poor health.
• Adriaan Smeekers from Amsterdam, enlisted in 1688, discharged in 1716 at age 56 after going blind.

The report also detailed the Dutch company’s ships stationed in Macassar, including their sizes, crews, weapons, and needed repairs:

• Chialoup Lompelmoes: 60 feet long, 19 feet wide, 10 feet deep, with 10 crew, 4 iron cannons, 4 metal guns, and a small boat. Bound for Batavia.
• Chialoup Boni: 60 feet long, 17 feet wide, 12 crew, 6 metal guns, and 8 guns. Bound for Batavia.
• Chialoup Wantrouw: 60 feet long, 15 feet wide, 8 crew, 6 metal guns, needing repairs to the stern, sides, deck, and interior.
• Pantsjallang Opas: 61 feet long, 17 feet wide, 12 crew, 9 metal guns.
• Pantsjallang Casuarus: 55 feet long, 16.5 feet wide, 10 crew, 8 small cannons, needing a new keel and hull repairs.
• Pantsjallang (unnamed, number 85): 54 feet long, 12 feet wide, 8 crew, 8 small cannons, needing new bow and stern timbers, rigging, and a tent.
• Schouw Adam: 40 feet long, 12 feet wide, 4 crew, needing major hull and deck repairs.
• Schouw Eva: 40 feet long, 12 feet wide, 4 crew, needing a new tent, rigging, and hull repairs.
• Groote Landschuijt: 40 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, 10 oars, needing a new keel, hull planks, and stern.
• Klyne Landschuyt: 30 feet long, 3 feet wide, 8 oars, needing new sideboards and interior planks.

An additional report by Jan Landsheer noted that local citizens and residents owned 10 chialoups, 104 gontongs (small boats), and 8 pantsjallangs—an increase of 4 gontongs from the previous year. Two more pantsjallangs, including the Beschermer, were also recorded.

On 21 October 1723, a report from Macassar detailed the distribution of military and hospital staff, as well as deaths and personnel whose contracts were ending.

The military and support staff were divided among several posts:

• Bony Maros T Hospital: 38 soldiers and 1 other staff member.
• Bima: 14 to 15 soldiers.
• Zalleyer: 9 to 10 soldiers.
• Bouthain: 4 to 5 soldiers, plus 1 additional staff member.

Total soldiers accounted for: 667.

Other roles included:

• 1 cook (assigned to Maros).
• 1 garrison writer.
• 1 psalm reader.
• 1 sick father (likely a nurse or caretaker).
• 1 gatekeeper.
• 1 messenger.
• 1 bridge master.
• 1 gardener.
• 1 hedge trimmer.

The military was further divided into specific posts with ranks (captains, ensigns, sergeants, corporals, drummers, trumpeters, riders, and common soldiers) at:

• D' Zandpoort: 76 to 91 soldiers, including 1 captain, 4 ensigns, 3 sergeants, and 4 corporals.
• Mandersaha: 49 to 53 soldiers, including 1 captain, 2 ensigns, and 1 corporal.
• Waterpoort: 63 to 69 soldiers, including 2 captains and 3 sergeants.
• Amboina: 49 to 53 soldiers, including 1 captain, 2 ensigns, and 1 corporal.
• D'oppassers Wagt: 14 to 34 soldiers, including 1 captain, 2 sergeants, and 10 corporals.
• D' Redont: 32 to 36 soldiers, including 1 captain, 2 sergeants, and 1 corporal.
• Bouton: 49 to 52 soldiers, including 1 captain and 2 sergeants.
• Batchian: 49 to 53 soldiers, including 1 captain, 2 ensigns, and 1 corporal.
• D' Troncq: 21 to 24 soldiers, including 1 captain and 2 sergeants.
• Travelyn: 28 to 31 soldiers, including 1 captain and 2 sergeants.
• D' Stal: 83 soldiers, including 2 captains, 1 ensign, 2 sergeants, and 5 corporals.

Personnel changes since 30 September 1723 included:

• Transferred via the ship Belvliet:
  • 1 preacher.
  • 2 sergeants.
  • 4 corporals.
  • 52 common soldiers.
  • 2 assistant surgeons.
  • 1 ship carpenter.
  • 1 box maker.
  • 2 quartermasters.
  • 25 sailors.
  Total: 90 people.
• Deceased:
  • 2 assistant merchants.
  • 2 bookkeepers.
  • 1 assistant.
  • 4 sergeants.
  • 7 corporals.
  • 30 soldiers.
  • 1 master carpenter.
  • 1 carpenter.
  • 1 blacksmith.
  • 1 mason.
  • 1 quartermaster.
  • 6 sailors.
  Total: 57 people.
• Personnel whose contracts had expired or were ending in the coming spring, requesting release:
  • 1 sergeant.
  • 5 corporals.
  • 53 common soldiers (including 1 drummer and 1 piper).
  • 2 assistant surgeons.
  • 4 ship carpenters.
  • 3 house carpenters.
  • 3 masons.
  • 2 blacksmiths.
  • 2 locksmiths.
  • 1 sword cleaner.

In August 1723, Jan Landsheer, a junior merchant and Sabandhar (local official) in Macassar, submitted a report to Governor Johannes Philippus Sipman. The report listed boats, including chialoupens (small ships), gontings (small rowboats), and pantsjalangs (local boats), registered under Fort Rotterdam. It detailed their owners, cargo capacity (in last—a unit of weight), and age (in years).

• The report included European citizens and Christian Mardijkers (freed slaves of Portuguese descent) like:
  • Thomas Jacobsz
  • Maria Iansz (widow of Hardenbergh)
  • Adriaan Schouten
  • Jan Swembergen
  • Michiel de Vreede (Chinese)
  • Cornelis Hardenbergh de Jonge
• Boats owned by individuals included:
  • 1 boat (capacity: 45 last, age: 1 year)
  • 1 boat (capacity: 35 last, age: 11 years)
  • 1 boat (capacity: 7 last, age: 1 year)
  • 1 boat (capacity: 14 last, age: 6 years) owned by Diogo Towaris
  • 1 boat (capacity: 25 last, age: 14 years) owned by Adriaan Towaris
  • 1 boat (capacity: 5 last, age: 8 years)
• Other owners included:
  • Jntje Soemaal (2 boats, capacities: 15 and 15 last)
  • Beyko (1 boat, capacity: 12 last, age: 12 years)
  • Os Transporteere (9 boats, total capacity: 9 last, age: 9 years)
• Additional owners (mostly local or mixed-descent individuals) included:
  • Jntje Soelie (1 boat, capacity: 5 last, age: 11 years)
  • Intje Mariam (widow of a Malay captain, 1 boat, capacity: 9 last, age: 10 years)
  • Moele Capiteyn (1 boat, capacity: 8 last, age: 6 years)
  • Packar (1 boat, capacity: 5 last, age: 10 years)
• Transport boats (10 in total) had a combined capacity of 41 last and an average age of 6 years.
• Other named owners included:
  • Johannes van der Hulst (1 boat, capacity: 18 last, age: 5 years)
  • Abraham Abrahamsz (1 boat, capacity: 12 last, age: 6 years)
  • Anthony Michielsz (1 boat, capacity: 25 last, age: 11 years)
  • Johan de Madera (1 boat, capacity: 18 last, age: 25 years)
  • Joost Abrahamsz (1 boat, capacity: 12 last, age: 5 years)
  • Cornelis Brugman (1 boat, capacity: 10 last, age: 30 years)
  • Jan Ongena (1 boat, capacity: 2 last, age: 28 years)
  • Jacomina Ketelaar (1 boat, capacity: 11 last, age: 6 years)
  • Rut van Nesse (1 boat, capacity: 1 last, age: 5 years)
  • Hendrik Zandijk (1 boat, capacity: 9 last, age: 15 years)
• Local owners included:
  • Ongsiacko, Niotheeko, Baharoe, Croes, Ongsjanko, Jntje Alli, Dokian Ko, Beklapko, Intje Soelie, Rokia, Mita, Saiera, Camar, Allie, Toemaal, Jntjesama, Radjab, Loding, Ahat, Theesjonko, Intje Adoel, Tsjakeenko, Jntjebongso, Ongkeenko, Niotheongko, Momie, Soloo, and Lyanko.
• Older boats were also listed, including one with a capacity of 9 last and age of 94 years.

On 21 October 1723, a financial report from Macassar was recorded by 5 accountants and 9 assistants. The report showed:

• The government had a financial advantage (not a deficit) of ƒ 637,218: 8: —, an increase compared to the previous year.
• Funds for the poor, managed by church deacons, totaled rd. 8,646: 43 after expenses, up by rd. 141: 26 from the previous year.

The report also listed the staff under the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in Macassar and nearby posts as of June and updated in September 1723:

• Government & Administration:
  • 1 governor and director
  • 1 senior merchant and second-in-command
  • 1 captain
  • 1 merchant and fiscal officer
  • 2 junior merchants
  • 17 clerks (including 6 accountants and 7 assistants)
  • 3 lower-ranking officials
• Church & Education:
  • 1 preacher
  • 2 hospital visitors
  • 2 schoolteachers
  • 1 sexton
• Medical Staff:
  • 1 chief surgeon
  • 2 senior surgeons
  • 7 assistant surgeons
• Legal & Security:
  • 1 chief toll collector
  • 2 junior toll collectors
  • 1 Sabandhar (local official) clerk
  • 1 junior mandador (messenger)
  • 1 sergeant and mandador
  • 1 court bailiff
  • 1 garrison clerk
  • 1 executioner
  • 1 jailer
• Artillery & Military:
  • 1 constable
  • 10 gunners (1 assigned to the saltworks)
• Craftsmen & Laborers (59 total):
  • 1 shipbuilding foreman’s assistant
  • 8 shipbuilders
  • 1 house-building foreman’s assistant
  • 2 wagon-makers
  • 1 turner (woodworker)
  • 9 carpenters
  • 1 blacksmith foreman
  • 9 blacksmiths
  • 1 coppersmith
  • 1 tinsmith
  • 1 armory foreman
  • 4 gun-lock makers
  • 2 box-makers
  • 1 mason foreman
  • 10 masons
  • 2 coopers (barrel-makers)
  • 2 sail-makers
  • 1 glassmaker
  • 1 saddler
  • 1 leatherworker

The total number of personnel listed was 127 (though some counts varied slightly due to updates).

• On 21 October 1723, a financial report from Macassar detailed the profits and revenues for the year compared to the previous year.
• Transport and Trade Profits:
  • Transport profits this year: ƒ 5,427.14.8 (down by ƒ 2,069 from last year).
  • Profits from warehouse goods and sales: ƒ 8,855.11.8.
  • Profits from the cloth shop: ƒ 17,777.9.
  • Total raw profits this year: ƒ 33,090.15 (down from ƒ 35,941.3.8 last year).
  • Losses this year: ƒ 1,316.13 (down from ƒ 2,097.12.8 last year), resulting in a net loss reduction of ƒ 780.19.8.
• Government Revenues:
  • Tax on strong drinks: ƒ 900 (down from ƒ 9,600 last year, which was already lower than ƒ 10,500 the year before).
  • Tithes on rice crops from Marous Boelecomba and Bouthain: ƒ 13,047.19 (up from ƒ 7,674.16 last year).
  • Tolls: ƒ 9,738.7.8 (down from ƒ 10,978.10 last year).
  • Weighing fees: ƒ 664.10 (down slightly from ƒ 677.10 last year).
  • Stamp duties on passes and documents: ƒ 858.12.8 (down from ƒ 1,187.5.8 last year).
  • Total decrease in government revenues: ƒ 2,850.8.8.
• Additional Income:
  • Timber cut by the Company’s (VOC) subjects: ƒ 100 (same as last year).
  • Beer tax ("bira stribuijt") from cloth and yarn: ƒ 24.8 (down from ƒ 154.8 last year).
  • Net increase in income: ƒ 2,961.7.8.
• Gifts and Donations:
  • Income from the King of Goa (4 slaves worth ƒ 360) and the King of Tambora (4 piculs of wax worth ƒ 180).
  • Total gifts received: ƒ 540.
  • Counter-gifts and necessary expenses: ƒ 443.
  • Net gain from gifts: ƒ 97 (would have been higher if not for additional gifts sent to the kings of Goa and Bony).
• Final net advantage this year: ƒ 988.18.8 (after accounting for lower profits and higher income).

• The financial report from Macassar on 21 October 1723 compares expenses and income from the current year to the previous year.
• Repair and Carpentry Costs:
  • Total expenses this year: ƒ1074.4.8.
  • Main costs came from repairing warehouses and homes, renewing military kitchens and wagons, and supplying lead for new gutters.
  • Additional costs included higher wages for enslaved people (ƒ346.5.-).
• Taxes on Enslaved People:
  • Last year, taxes were ƒ900.13.8, but this year, only ƒ12.7 was spent on repairs for 2 copper kettles, reducing the total.
• Condemnation Costs (legal fines/confiscations):
  • Last year, ƒ948.- was collected (ƒ900.- from fines by the Council of Justice and ƒ48.- from missed court appearances).
  • This year, only ƒ230.19.- was collected (mostly from seized rice, wax, and cloth).
  • Costs for prisoners remained similar to last year.
• Boat Maintenance Costs:
  • Fewer boats visited this year (e.g., Chialoupen, Pompelmoesen, and patrol boats).
  • Last year, over ƒ1000.- was spent on the patrol boat Oppas; this year, no major repairs were needed.
• Transport Costs:
  • Last year: ƒ6242.25.8; this year: ƒ2680.10.8.
• Extra Costs:
  • ƒ370.14.- spent, mostly due to ƒ300.- less paid to officials and no expenses for a messenger sent last year.
• Gift Expenses:
  • Last year: ƒ1038.15.-; this year: 0 (no gifts given).
• Spice Tree Removal:
  • Last year: ƒ450.-; this year: 0 (no removals ordered).
• Total Savings:
  • Expenses decreased by ƒ5384.- this year.
• Profit/Loss:
  • Last year’s profit: ƒ35941.3.8; this year: ƒ33090.15.- (ƒ2850.8.8 less).
  • Main loss: ƒ5427.14.8 from a 4% tax on monthly wage payouts.

On 21 October 1723, a financial report from Macassar detailed the expenses and changes in costs compared to the previous year. The key points included:

• The total expenses amounted to ƒ44,676.8, which was ƒ74.2.8 less than the previous year.
• Local soldiers' wages remained unchanged at ƒ720, as no changes were made to the pay or number of local servants.
• Ship fees increased due to:
  • The supply of a heavy anchor (weighing 1 picul) to the ship Belvliet, costing ƒ325.5.8.
  • Reduced provisions supplied to ships in Macassar and Bima, saving ƒ251.3 compared to the previous year.
• Ship wages decreased because:
  • Only 1 sailor from the ship Belvliet was hospitalized, compared to 6 sailors from the ships Witsburg and Neptunis the previous year.
  • The Dutch East India Company (E Comp) had 22 fewer sailors in service this year, according to the general muster roll taken at the end of June 1723.
• Regular food allowances and rations decreased for the same reasons as the wages.
• Regular fees increased primarily because:
  • Weapons and equipment sent to the residency in Bima replaced those destroyed or damaged by fire the previous year, costing ƒ195.7.8.
• The pay book showed a total of ƒ2,216.19.
• Hospital expenses rose due to:
  • The purchase of a new copper kettle for ƒ178.12.
  • A new bottom for a half-worn barrel costing ƒ17.2.
  • Medicines sent from Batavia costing ƒ50 more than the previous year.
  • The departure of 20 combarsen (a type of worker), saving ƒ119.
• Fortification expenses increased due to:
  • Building a new weapon rack near the land gate, costing ƒ90.15.8.
  • New guardhouses at various posts, costing ƒ86.17.
  • Consumption of 136 pounds of gunpowder for cannon salutes, costing ƒ34.
  • Hiring 7 slaves to cut stone on the Coerese Islands for castle battery repairs, costing ƒ562.10.
  • Lime used for the repairs, increasing the total to ƒ774.2.8.
• Transportation costs were ƒ44,676.8, which was ƒ952.15.8 less than the previous year, mainly due to cheaper purchases of clappus oil (a type of oil).

On 21 October 1723, a report from Macassar was sent to authorities in Rotterdam, detailing requests and financial summaries for the upcoming year, 1724.

• The report listed damaged or unusable tools under the supervision of a Baas Metselaar (head mason), including:
  • 1 sledgehammer (unusable)
  • 1 trowel (worn out from long use)
  • 1 mason’s hammer (unusable)
• In the hospital, shortages were noted:
  • 8 items missing or unusable
  • 23 blankets (unusable)
  • 1 copper hollow stew pot (unusable)
  • 1 copper plumb bob
  • 1 flat copper item

The document was signed by Joan Happon and referenced an earlier meeting on 15 September 1723, where a list of needs for 1724 was prepared. The requests included:

• Funding: 20,000 rijksdaalders (Dutch currency).
• Personnel requests:
  • 1 head carpenter
  • 3 clerks (to replace 3 who had died)
  • 2 assistant surgeons
  • 4 ship carpenters
  • 3 house carpenters
  • 3 blacksmiths for the forge
  • 2 gunlock makers for the armory
  • 1 sword adjuster
  • 150 common soldiers
  • 2 drummers
  • 15 sailors

On 21 October 1723, 9 administrative books were sent, including summaries of orders and trade books. The financial records were examined and balanced on 2 October of that year. The total general expenses for the past year (1722-1723) were compared:

• Previous year (1722): ƒ168,577.17
• Current year (1723): ƒ163,193.17
• Difference: ƒ5,384 less in expenses.

The report assured that efforts were made to reduce costs as much as possible and that further savings would be pursued in the upcoming year.

• On 21 October 1723, a report from Macassar listed missing, damaged, or wasted supplies, with losses recorded for accounting.
• Iron and metal losses:
  • 5 iron plates were written off as lost.
  • 607 lb of iron were missing from a shipment of 17,530 lb (3.5% loss).
  • 6,089 lb of iron were lost due to improper loading on ships, causing imbalance (3.5% loss).
  • 70 lb of iron were missing from 583 lb used in the armory (12% loss).
  • 636 lb of iron were lost from 4,965 lb issued to the blacksmith’s workshop (13% loss).
  • 8 lb of copper were lost from 174.5 lb used (4.5% loss).
  • 1.5 lb of copper were missing from supplies.
  • 2 lb of steel were lost from 71 lb (3% loss).
  • 3 lb of steel were lost from 134 lb (2.25% loss).
  • 6 iron plates were lost in the blacksmith’s workshop.
  • 4 iron plates were lost from 112 lb (3.5% loss).
• Other material losses:
  • 6 lb of powdered sugar were lost from 204 lb (3% loss).
  • 12 lb of rice were lost from 205⅓ last (a "last" was a unit of weight), with 1399 lb wasted from 428 last due to spoilage (2.7% loss).
  • 59 last of rice were completely lost.
  • 268.5 lb of wood were wasted from 3 last (340 lb), due to damage (2.8% loss).
  • 315 lb of wax were lost from 11,680 lb (2.7% loss).
  • 33 lb of pepper were lost from 1,100 lb due to drying and spillage (3% loss).li>
  • 500 coarse sacks wore out from use.
  • 2 bottles of rosewater leaked and broke.
  • Painter’s tools were damaged.
  • Dyes were lost from 302 lb due to spillage (3% loss).
  • 1 whole tin can was ruined from long-term use.
  • 12 wooden scoops were broken beyond repair.
  • 3 Macassar gangways were damaged.
  • 90 nails were lost.
  • 2,578 lb of nails were lost from 10,322 lb due to rust (3.5% loss).
  • 83.5 jars of arrack (alcoholic drink) were missing from 4,396 jars due to evaporation or leaks (1.78% loss).
  • 3 boxes were damaged.
• Military and workshop losses:
  • 200 lb of gunpowder were lost during monthly inspections.
  • 137 lb of saltpeter (used for gunpowder) were damaged from 1,618 lb (8.5% loss).
  • 2 gunpowder sieves became unusable from long-term use.
  • 1 large table was eaten by termites in the shipyard workshop.
  • 16 planing blocks were destroyed by termites.
  • 400 soldering irons were damaged.
  • 2 files were ruined by termites.
  • 6 pieces of teak and knee timber (for shipbuilding) were lost in the armory.
  • 6 iron plates were lost from 77 lb (8% loss).
  • 1 tin pan became unusable.
  • 2 melting crucibles broke in the carpenter’s workshop.
  • 370 soldering irons were lost due to wear.

On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar reported several key events to their superiors:

• A payment of 4,030 reals was agreed upon after negotiations, as they felt they could not refuse the demand.
• On 26 June, local leaders and some ministers gathered for 8 days to settle disputes, as recorded in official logs. They hoped this would receive approval from higher authorities.
• The harvest that year was unusually poor, with many villages, including Vlaardingen, producing almost no rice. A cost report submitted by E. Wykmeesters, merchant Abraham van Vlaardingen van den Anker, and assistant merchant Jan Landsheer on 8 September showed a remaining capital of just 39 reals and 27 stuivers as of August.
• Since this amount was insufficient for necessary repairs, Wykmeesters requested a new cost estimate on 15 September, which was approved for 267 reals.
• The annual auction for alcohol taxes took place on 24 August, raising 6,000 reals. The winning bidders, citizens Hendrik Zandyk and Jan van der Hulst, paid 4,030 reals—830 reals more than the previous year.
• On 15 September, a report by senior merchant Johan Happon listed goods found to be damaged, excess, or missing after checking inventory records. The plan was to:
  • Sell unusable goods.
  • Add excess items to remaining stock.
  • Write off losses, pending final approval.
• The report detailed shortages, including:
  • ½ pound of Japanese copper (from a total of 76 pounds).
  • 3½ pounds of another metal (from 228½ pounds issued).
  • 1½% of rough iron (from a total of 1,848 pounds).

The officials awaited confirmation for these actions from higher authorities.

• On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar reported several issues involving local rulers and the Dutch East India Company (VOC):
  • The people of Pekat claimed rights over certain lands for the upcoming year (1724) but were told to wait for further instructions from higher authorities.
  • A dispute arose over refugees from Tambora living in the mountains. The King of Tambora stated he would allow their freedom if Pekat could prove they settled on his land without permission.
  • The King of Sumbawa could potentially supply 2 ships' loads (about 300,000 kg) of sapphires annually, but local nobles accused him of hoarding profits, claiming no old sapphire trees remained.
  • The VOC had already been informed that only 3,000 piculs (about 180,000 kg) of sapphires could be harvested in 1724.
• Regions like Opzaleyer, Boelecomba, Glisson, and Poulonbankeeng were peaceful under VOC control, but Bonthain faced unrest:
  • Locals stole rice in groups of 20–30 people, ignoring orders. When a VOC corporal and guards tried to stop them, they threatened violence.
  • The corporal fired a warning shot, but the thieves escaped, vowing to return. They were likely from the new settlement of Tolette.
  • On 16 October 1723, a soldier was attacked by 6–7 locals while guarding rice; one postholder was wounded, and another lost his musket.
  • The King of Bonthain claimed ignorance, so the VOC threatened to remove him from power unless he handed over the culprits.
• The Maros and Noorder chiefs urgently requested Governor Sipman resolve their internal conflicts, asking him to visit their provinces in person.

• The Dutch officials in Macassar reported on 21 October 1723 about ongoing issues with local peoples, including unpaid taxes and unresolved disputes.
• They suspected that His Highness (likely a local ruler) might request land near Goa from the Dutch authorities but were unsure if a formal letter would be sent that year.
• Claims made by the Macassars against both Dutch subjects and free Macassars were partially addressed, with details recorded between 10 May and 22 September. However, disputes involving "open peoples" detained by the Dutch chief in Poulonbankeeng remained unresolved due to delays and excuses.
• The Macassars often postponed discussions, citing inconvenient timing, such as harvest seasons or religious fasting periods, leaving many issues unresolved year after year.
• No envoys from Bouton arrived that year, so there was no news to report from that court.
• Plans to uproot spice trees had to be halted due to a lack of ships and crew, but officials intended to resume once the tiende (tithe/tax) was collected, using ships like the Casuarus and Beschermer.
• Despite hopes for peace, conflicts persisted among local princes and their followers in Bima and surrounding areas. The Dutch resident, Abraham Walburg, was ordered to mediate, but disputes continued under local customs without Dutch intervention.
• On 12 October 1723, envoys from Bima reported the death of the King of Tambora, Adl Abdul Has. According to a 1701 contract, the throne should pass to the son of Dain Mamangon, but this risked revolt due to deep-seated rivalry between the two royal houses.
• The Dutch suggested temporarily bypassing the usual succession rules to avoid conflict, proposing that both rival lines agree on a new king to prevent future disputes.
• If the people of Tambora presented a candidate for kingship, the Dutch would support them while the matter was debated.

• On 21 October 1723, a letter was written from Macassar about a meeting with the king of Bone. The Dutch representatives, including merchant and fiscal officer Abraham van den Anker, assistant merchant Jan Landsheer, assistant merchant Pieter van der Snippe, and ensign Otto Eward Coolwagen, presented gifts to the king. The gifts included:
  • 2 pieces of Bengal cotton cloth (armosynen) for ƒ 21:1:2
  • 2 fine hamans for ƒ 23:—:—
  • 2 mallemolle cloths for ƒ 24:11:—
  • 2 cassabengale cloths for ƒ 31:19:—
  • 2 pounds of tobacco for ƒ 16:16:—
  • 2 foelij (type of cloth) for ƒ 1:—:—
  • 4 nutmegs for ƒ 4:—:—
  • 2 sticks of cinnamon for ƒ 12:—:—
  • 2 pounds of cloves for ƒ 12:—:—
  The total value of the gifts was ƒ 119:15:—.
• The Dutch then traveled to the court of Gowa to meet its king. On 9 August, the king of Gowa met with Governor Sipman in a garden. The king asked if the people of Bone had complained to the Dutch about Gowa taking taxes from them. The Dutch confirmed this and mentioned that the people of Bone were upset because this had never happened before.
• The king of Gowa seemed surprised and claimed he did not want to show his power. He then asked who owned the lands south of Manipe. Governor Sipman replied that the Dutch East India Company (VOC) owned them. The king questioned this, saying that when Gowa had taken some lands from Anroe Malole and returned them, the VOC had not protested.
• The king of Gowa insisted on knowing if the lands given to Carre Balloor by Anroe Malole belonged to him. The Dutch repeated that they did not know where these lands were. The king argued that if the lands were under his control, he could do as he pleased, but if they were VOC lands, they should remain with the VOC, though they could be used like other VOC lands.
• The king eventually accepted this but asked that the lands not be given to the people of Bone. He also wondered what would happen if Bone demanded the taxes back. The Dutch replied that the taxes had already been spent.

On 21 October 1723, a report from Macassar discussed several issues involving local rulers, trade restrictions, and political tensions.

• The ruler of Bone had requested that no rice be sold to traders from Ambon and Banda because of an upcoming grand celebration for his daughter. The event, called Riwatoe, would include tooth-filing and ear-piercing ceremonies, drawing large crowds and causing rice shortages. The ruler feared that if the feast was delayed due to his illness, the traders would struggle to get supplies.
• The ruler had already ordered his people not to sell rice to these traders and asked the Dutch to prevent Macassars and Buginese in their camps from selling rice as well. However, the Dutch replied that they could only control their own people and suggested the ruler handle his own subjects while the King of Macassar should manage the Macassars. They also noted that stopping free trade would harm the Ambonese and Bandanese traders, who relied on rice purchases.
• The governor mentioned that the ruler of Bone had previously restricted rice sales during shortages but hoped the ban would be temporary. The governor also noted that the ruler’s illness had delayed discussions about certain exiles, like Dain Marewa, but promised to address the issue once the ruler recovered.
• Political tensions were rising between the courts of Bone and Gowa. The King of Gowa had demanded taxes from lands near Manepe and Maricaya, which had never been done before. Additionally, he refused to hand over Bonese refugees who had fled to areas like Lunrang Manipi and Manimbawi, despite complaints from the ruler of Bone.
• As a customary gift during the Muslim fasting period, the Dutch sent presents to the courts of Bone and Gowa, following their annual tradition and a decision made on 7 July.

On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar wrote about ongoing disputes involving the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the kingdom of Bone, ruled by its king (referred to as "his highness"). Several key issues were raised:

• The king of Bone claimed his people were being unfairly stopped by VOC officials in Maros while transporting rice. His representatives, including the gallarang of Bontualacq and the toutongan, requested that each person be allowed to carry a small amount of rice for personal use. The VOC suspected abuse, as traders were smuggling large quantities under the guise of "the king's people." They proposed a system of free passes to prevent fraud, but the king rejected it, insisting on unrestricted transport.
• The king also demanded free passage for rice ships from Marempeso, arguing that his father had once received rice from the VOC during blockades. Despite the VOC's objections, the king persisted, promising only that his officials would notify the local sergeant when rice was being transported for royal use.
• Two tomilalangs (royal messengers) claimed 80 bendangs (plots) of farmland in Maros (on Cabba land) on behalf of the king. They argued that these lands, originally gifted by Admiral Speelman to Aroe Arong, had been reclaimed by the king after years of disuse. The VOC countered that the lands had been granted to the Queen of Tsjamba (now succeeded by Cram Tsjamba) over 40 years ago and remained in their possession. The king’s forces had recently seized the lands by force without prior warning or justification.
• The king also laid claim to people from Dain Manompo, treating them as his slaves, though the VOC insisted they were free subjects. The king threatened to forcibly remove them if they did not comply, raising concerns about his unreasonable demands.
• Additionally, the king demanded gold artifacts and the estate (including slaves) of the late Captain Jntje Tsjoeka, a Malay leader. The estate had been gifted to Tsjoeka by the late Queen Dani Tahalille, but the king now sought to seize it. The current Malay captain still held these possessions.

The VOC expressed frustration, noting that the king’s actions contradicted his earlier claims of loyalty and gratitude toward the Company. They urged the tomilalangs to report these matters to the king and investigate the abuses of power, warning that such violations could damage relations between Bone and the VOC.

On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar received orders to handle a dispute fairly regarding rice deliveries. The issue involved bundles of rice called bossen, which local farmers (boniers) in Maros had made larger than the standard size used by the Dutch East India Company (VOC). This caused confusion during inspections.

• The VOC sent Sergeant Jan Landman and Ensign Hendrik Duirveld to investigate. They found that the farmers’ bundles were indeed too large. The VOC ordered them to compare the sizes and send three large bundles to Maros for review.
• Tests showed that one large bundle could yield as much rice as two standard bundles. The King of Bone and local leaders (tomilalangs) approved the VOC’s fair approach.
• To prevent future disputes, the VOC ordered six sealed bundles of rice to be divided:
  • 2 for the Boneese chief.
  • 2 for Sergeant Jan Landman.
  • 2 for the Governor of Macassar.

A new problem arose when the Boneese chief in Maren ordered farmers in Peso to stop paying the VOC their 10% rice tax (tiende) until further notice. The VOC first asked the tomilalangs to intervene, but they claimed ignorance. After repeated requests failed, the VOC sent Pieter van der Snippe and Hendrik Duirveld to the King of Bone.

• The king denied knowing about the order and promised to resolve the issue. He sent the toutongan (a local official) with Willem Muller (a VOC interpreter) to Maros to enforce the tax collection.
• The king also thanked the VOC for their report and said he would discuss the matter with his advisors before responding further.

The outcome of these actions remained uncertain at the time. The VOC noted all farmer complaints since 6 June but avoided detailing them further in this report.

On 21 October 1723, officials in Macassar sent a report to Governor-General Henric Zwaardecroon and the Council of the Dutch East Indies in Batavia. The letter included:

• A copy of criminal trial records (4 documents).
• A sealed package from the Orphan Masters in Macassar for the Orphan Masters in Costy.
• A package from the Church Council in Macassar for the same group in Costy.

The letter was approved by A. Luijken, the secretary, and sent via the ship Pantsjallang, which had left Macassar on 6 June 1723 under the supervision of Pieter Alexandersz.

The main points of the report were:

• The envoys from Bone and Loping had arrived in Macassar on 31 May 1723, but the King of Bone had not yet collected the letter and gifts sent by the Governor-General.
• On 7 June 1723, the Queen of Bone formally received the letter and gifts with a large ceremony. Due to the King’s illness, she read the documents aloud to the nobles of Bone and Soping on 31 July 1723.
• The Queen and nobles were pleased with the news that Bonthain would be handed over to her, as promised. They celebrated while drinking tea with the Governor and his council.
• The King of Bone had initially resisted the Dutch demand for a tithing tax (a tax of 10%) on the upcoming rice harvest, as mentioned in an earlier letter from 6 June.
• After strong urging from the Dutch on 1 June, the King finally agreed to the old terms: paying 27 gantangs (a unit of weight) per 1,000 bundles of rice, provided the rice bundles matched the standard size from previous years.

This is a list of official documents from Macassar (now Makassar, Indonesia) dated 21 October 1723, sent by the local Dutch government (likely the Dutch East India Company, or VOC):
• Original letter and its copies from the same date.
• Payroll records for government employees, reviewed by the governor and council.
• Budget request (duplicate) for the year 1724.
• Financial report on charity funds managed by church deacons, covering up to December 1722.
• Records from the village of Vlaardingen up to August 1723, including a tax assessment list.
• Summary of all VOC employees in the government as of June and September 1723.
• General overview of VOC employees, citizens, and subjects in the area.
• List of VOC ships and boats needing repairs, including those missing or not accounted for.
• Records of mortgages, pawns, and loans from a citizen named Chialoupen, with details on owners, property sizes, and ages.
• Request from the bookkeeper and resident Abraham Walburg in Birma (likely Burma/Myanmar).
• Report by Henrik Duirvelt and Jan Landman on their mission to Maros (a region in South Sulawesi).
• Report by chief merchant Pieter van der Sneppe and ensign Hendrik Duirvelt on their dealings with the king of Bone (a kingdom in South Sulawesi).
• Inventory of trade books stored in a labeled box: "A Macassar Trade Books."
• Inventory of payroll books and papers stored in a labeled box: "Macassar Payroll Books and Papers."
• Shipping receipt for goods loaded onto a ship.
• A separate locked box labeled "X. L:a A" containing secret government documents, including:
  • Copies of resolutions by the Council of Policy from 19 June to 8 October 1723.
  • Daily register from 1 May 1723 to mid-October 1723.
  • Incoming letters from 9 November 1722 to 16 October 1723.
  • Outgoing letters from 15 July 1722 to 10 October 1723.
  • Records of punished individuals from 2 October 1722 to 8 October 1723.
  • List of arriving and departing ships from 1 October 1722 to 31 July 1723.

On 5 October 1723, officials in Macassar sent a report to Governor-General Henric Zwaardecroon and the Council of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in Batavia. The letter, signed by Governor Johannes Philippus Sipman and five other officials, covered two main topics: staffing needs and a poor rice harvest.

• The officials requested approval for the following positions and payments:
  • A payment of 20,000 reals (rd:s).
  • 1 foreman to oversee carpenters.
  • 3 clerks (pennisten) to replace three who had died.
  • 2 assistant surgeons.
  • 4 ship carpenters.
  • 3 house carpenters.
  • 3 blacksmiths for the smithy.
  • 2 gunlock makers for the armory.
  • 1 sword polisher.
  • 150 soldiers.
  • 2 drummers.
  • 15 sailors.

• The rice harvest in the lands of Maros had failed badly. Only 143 loads (lasten) and 19,771⅓ pounds were collected—217 loads and 1,966⅓ pounds less than the previous year. Because of this shortage, the price of rice had risen sharply. A load of 3,000 pounds now cost 25 reals, and prices were expected to climb even higher once merchant ships arrived from Ambon and Banda.

• The officials also noted that 1,907 reals, collected by Assistant Hendrik van Vijt, had been deposited into the Company’s cash reserve. This money had not been sent back to Batavia as requested by the authorities there. Instead, it was given to Merchant Jan Donker van der Hoff.

The letter was sent via the proa (local boat) of citizen Hendrik Zandyk, along with other documents, to Batavia for further action.