Representação (duas) do Senado da Câmara de Macau a [D. Afonso VI], rei de Portugal, sobre a actuação do governo de Pequim: a proibição da navegação e comércio nos mares da China; a retenção de religiosos em Cantão, proibindo-lhes a pregação. Necessidade de um pregador para a corte de Pequim.
Transcription
Page 1
Here is the comprehensive, structured transcription of the historical document.
**[Página 1]**
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+
Snor.
**[Carimbos]**
[No centro, à esquerda, sobrepondo-se ao texto]
Selo circular com o brasão de armas de Portugal ao centro, rodeado pela inscrição "ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL * DAS COLONIAS".
[No canto inferior esquerdo]
Selo oval, a tinta azul, com o texto "AHU".
**[Texto Principal]**
Por mais que ditoza sorte teue esta camara, e pouo
desta Cidade de a carta que da real grandeza de V.Mg.e que
Deos nos guarde se recebemos por mão do Capitão Andre Lo.
Po. do que nesta Cidade chegou em Julho de secenta equa-
tro, fazendo aella pomesmo anno reposta, com demostraçoês
encenidas da alegria, que della rrecebeo geralmente, po-
[Ilegível] a segunda que Depois da felice Ditoza aclamação da M.e
delRej Dom João Nosso S.nor, que tanta gloria
aja e mereceo receber esta Camara, sendo que não oude anno
desde entaõ atse oprezente, que por sua obrigação falta-
semos emdar conta a V.Mg.e de seus bons effeitos em
que mais em cada hum destes annos sehia atenuando esta
Cidade co a falta decomersios que tão opulenta e afamada
afizera, e muito em particular pello da china, que foi de
maior emportansia emovezas [UNCERTAIN: e varias] guerras que por alevanta:
mento, e mudança deRej e gouerno neste emPerio semoue-
rão jes de oanno de secenta e sesta parte, sem que deecouza
alguã merecesemos reposta, por mais que ecansacidamen:
te manifestauamos aos VReis, eJouernadores da India
osentimento que esta cauza nos ocazionaua, sem que Sir-
visem bastantes, p.a que atalentandoas nos aliviasem as pe-
nalidades que deste gozão este bem terror originado.
Sebem ia por vZo deste tão duplicado mal nos,
nad Lastimauamos, vendo que estando tamais perto, e quasi
avista todas as monçoês nas queais por exercicios em cada hua
Delles pediamos osmedios a este mal socorrendo os:
co preça com gente p.a Prezidio pella falta que della auia
Juntamente cabedal com que os Soldados se pudesem ser-
**[Assinaturas]**
[Não há assinaturas visíveis nesta página]
**[Referências arquivísticas]**
[Não há referências arquivísticas visíveis, exceto pelo carimbo do Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino (AHU)]
Page 2
An expert transcription of the provided historical document is as follows.
***
**[Pagina 2]**
**[Texto Principal]**
tentar pera que aßi ficando as pracas, e fortalezas quas-
retidas pudesem nossos moradores ia aßar atentados hire
buscar aoutras terras com que nesta podesem sustentar
suas familias, sefazião ettudo oque se The representaua
emanifestaua tãobem dezentendidos, que he mais pera
sentir, que referir aV.M.ge porem tem chegado ja a tal
grande extremo, que nos uemos por naõ podere ia com mais
apertos deste gouerno tartaro &representar ao VRej do noso
he se disponha por seruico grande de V.M.ge e acudir aesta ci-
dade com odeque mais seentende geralmente sereçeßita, e
deonas se emcampamos esta CIdade pera que segur-
al quer ruina que nos aconteça das estrita Corta do Rey
Epor que oque se lhe pede he sua pessoa localidade pera
em nome de V.M.ge yr com sua embaixada aCorte de Pequin
por ser ounico remedio que uemos, ealcansamos com bom Con-
selho, econfideraçoes he oque mais importa pa Conseruar es
trato, ecomercio desta praça, eCidade taõ jmportante aV.M.ge
por credito desuas armas, e reis, e bem desta christandade, e
He outras muitas que desta tem sua sustentaçaõ, pendente, por
auer quazi sinco annos que nos tem prohibido todo otrato e
navegaçaõ, que coms delle se resustenta este comum, he ia em
potinuel sem algum fauorauel premio deste com Seruio, q
So esperamos alcançar por mejo de Embaixador de V.M.ge
que da India uenha Atrá empoßiuel poder S.M.g. Ter nos
Hesta praçe pella empoßibilidade de teros naõ podesemos nel-
la sustentar, suposto opçocuramos, epretendemos acusta
de nosso tas teruos cabedais, que será de maneira que che:
guemos anaõ ficar Co cousa de que nos poßamos sustentar
Seainda esgotar osangue das Vejas quando p.a asustentar
aV.M.ge nos obriguem, eseia necessario,
Iao bem auizamos ao VRej da India, que na corte:
cer pella arrogancia destes tartaros naõ recebe al embaixa
da ou quizerem em omissão della fazer aGuerra Cousa que ria
em digeredito das reais armas de V.M.ge se a pessoa do Emba-
xador ordene oque emtal cazo deuemos obrar, porque será
mais facil aßirta dehua ou outra cousa vender as Vidas
**[Anotações marginais]**
* **[Na margem esquerda, ao nível da linha 33, corrigindo o início da linha]**
Co~
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Não visível.
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Não visível.
Page 3
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**[Página 1]**
**[Texto Principal]**
ficando pera sempre dellas felis memoria, que sofrer
Sagenté que como nunca teve choque com naçaõ afilhad.a:
Europos lhes parece naõ hà outra mais valeroZa que a sua
emque se veem assás empenados por que se bem brigao com
mais de fogo, porem terdes ecastello, as de que mais se valem
he de sofrehir, e anco.
E juntamente aduertimos ao V. Rey, quee quando naõ conceda
avinda de Embaixador nos mande barcos capazes, e sufi:
cientes p.a com credito, e reputaçaõ nos passemos desta terra
a quees quer outra, darelhe porá e jurisdiçaõ de V. Mg.e, q.
V. Mg.e de disposta pello bem destas Christandades, e importancia,
deque esta praça persistente na real coroa de V. Mg.e oque
mais for Servido.
Das couZas que remoueraõ pera estes tartaros nos chegarem
ao estado que referimos, haij de estar narracaõ particular
pera que V. Mg.e tenha della e clareza que devemos dar,
porem logue V. Mg.e se parecer mandar, e conuenha a su:
a real Coroa, e q.e V. Mg.e prospere eguarde com etma:
jores felicidades que stodo oRejno, e estado de V. Mg.e como
seus fieis Vassalos deZejamos. Macao, q. de deSembro 14.
de 1666 O m. of. Ilmo Snr Rafaýl arias de morales assessores, e es
criuaõ da camara desta Cidade do nome de s.or nader:
na em meza asobrescrjvy.
**[Anotações marginais]**
[Margem esquerda, texto cortado]
[UNCLEAR: e]
[UNCLEAR: de]
[UNCLEAR: e]
[UNCLEAR: com]
vel:
ha:
er,
ir,
te:
sa
ia
lar
tãs
s
**[Carimbos]**
[No centro-direito, em baixo]
Carimbo circular com as armas de Portugal (escudo com as cinco quinas) ao centro, rodeado por uma coroa de louros. Texto na borda:
ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL * LISBOA *
**[Assinaturas]**
[Abaixo do texto principal, ao centro]
[ASSINATURA ILEGÍVEL: M.el Go.e tho.a da fillua]
[Rubrica elaborada]
Page 4
A transcrição deste documento é apresentada abaixo, seguindo a estrutura solicitada e as regras de transcrição para documentos históricos.
***
**[Página 2 - Verso]**
**[Texto Principal]**
[O texto principal encontra-se praticamente ilegível devido ao extremo desvanecimento da tinta, sendo impossível a sua transcrição.]
**[Anotações marginais]**
[Nenhuma anotação marginal visível.]
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- Carimbo circular a tinta preta, com o escudo de armas de Portugal ao centro, rodeado pelo texto: ARQUIVO HISTORICO ULTRAMARINO.
**[Assinaturas]**
[No topo, da esquerda para a direita]
- [Rubrica]
Mello de Alviar
- [Rubrica]
Luis Machorro
- [Rubrica]
Mel de Almada
- [Rubrica]
Antº fcº
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- [Rubrica ilegível]
Page 5
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**[Pagina]**
[No topo, à direita]
+
Sros.
**[Texto Principal]**
[Letra capitular “P” ornamentada no início do texto]
or Sarda isa, e Iunmes, que este governo tartaro sevio em
Perada por ser de pouca Idade, he em governos Dominado
por quatro Governadores, sem Contra hum Seu Vassallo Levan=
tado por nome Cocem, e por outro Iqued, que em As Lingoes Sini
cas se dis que ha muitos annos com grande poder, se riguega
nas terras do Chineheo Sugeitas heste Imperio, e
tem chegado pella navegaçaõ etratodamercancia atanta altu:
ra que se atreveo acometer a Ilha fermoza, etomala contra opo
der, e força dos Olandezes, sendo della Chaue de muitos portos, dos
quais confia annos terdos os empenhados pera res=
tauraçaõ com duas poderozas armadas, sem lhes ser de efeits
algum, mas antes demuita perda, ediscredito Sy, athe se lhes pegaraõ
queles por sua industria, egrandes presentes do favor, etinda se
Sum Tegulo tartaro que nas mesmas terras do Chineheo afiste
etem Seu governo com grande poder, Sugeito aos tartaros, porem
Com muita disimulaçaõ, Comtudo lhe Sucedeo por permisao
divina aforte doente do que imaginavaõ pellos choques que
Esperavaõ =
Emconsideraçaõ do que Sesentou na Corte de Pequim sepro=
hibiçe atodos seus Vassallos todo generos de navegaçaõ, athe de:
pescadores, ordenando que nenhua Sotaboa sefeseße, nem se:
achase em seus mares, edafalle do mar seretirasem Sinco, e
seis leguas pella terra dentro, com tanta perda dos mesmos
Vassallos inocentes, como dograndiZo rendimento que a sua
fazenda importavaõ as terras que deixou de habitar que:
rhe incrivell, entendendo que he comunicaçaõ Secreta que te=
nhaõ, epedisao ter com este Levantado Seus Vassallos Sugeitos
era oque sfazia taõ prospero, e poderozo, que se lhe dava lu=
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[Nenhuma visível]
**[Carimbos]**
1. **[Na margem esquerda, ao nível das linhas 3-6]**
Selo circular com as armas de Portugal ao centro.
Texto no anel exterior: **ARQ. HIST. COLONIAL**
Texto na base: **OBRAS C.**
2. **[Na margem esquerda, ao nível das linhas 10-12]**
Selo oval, com tinta desvanecida.
Conteúdo: [Ilegível]
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Page 6
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**[Texto Principal]**
armas e leis não só pera lhe não vobedecer, mas de lhes o chegaria
a ter pera oconquistar -
Promulgouse este Edito geral des de Pequim athe as na-
is remontadas Ilhas de seu estado, aonde chegou este notavel
Castigo, ja mais visto, nem ouvido, pois Sem Culpa, nem crime
que Contra Seu Rey Cometa Sem lealdade vs Vassallos proprios na-
turaes deStruidos, perdidos, e mortos por Suas razoes, e tombas
depedras, etoucas de pao de seos feitos, e
Saque se p[er]d[e]r o Sustentar, perdidas, eroubadas Suas fazendas, e
espectaculs tao notavel, e extraordinario, que aim
da vista Como uemos asi a olhos parece incrivel.
Chegou este trabalho ha annos, por uiveremos nesta falha do:
mar, e Se bem nao Com os motivos dosmais nos foi muito peor, ficare-
mos privados denavegaeao de nossos portos, do trato Comum, e
mercancia, que Com osnaturais mercadores costumavamos
fazer, por que Sem ficar pessoa algua China homes, molheres
dequalquer idade Se recolherao todos pella terra dentro Com pe-
na demorte, que logo Seexecutava em osque tardava na obe-
diencia ficou esta Cidade Sem quem nos pudesse far, nem ven-
der a ditas partes o ordinario Sustento; porem Com aconsidera-
cao de sermos estrangeiros (que por tais nos tem este governo) e se
viemos de terras longinquas nao Considerava ordinario Susten-
to hindo o buscar a porfia de hum Soco, Com que de nós se dividem
Suas terras, e alheas vezinhas assaz distante, e por tal penozo
tivemos buscar por frios, chuva, e calma o necessario de Cada dia
que se vejo de se ter de dez, em dez dias, ehegou gente de sines
e comsines -
Dousse aesta fatal ruina principio aquatro demajo de secenta
eDois, Des deentao ethe oprezente a estamos soportando a fome
e de Se de talgua maneira estes rigores padeçemos ain
da que seja a muita custa Sustentar, e Conservar esta praça
eſtade, egrande christandade na real Coroa, e estado de Vossa Magestade
Sendo omajor dano que nos alcansa onao podermos navegar livre
mente por ser o trato da navegaeao o trafigo, remedio deque nos
Sustentamos, por que Se Comtoda Dificuldade por algum Se rece-
bemos de fora desta Ilha, hum, ou Dous barcos ao an-
no por nao Ser bastante oretorno que d'ahi sahem, como
a quem deve como de costumava; por tanto zo, e na arca
fé de Deos pollo Senhor fauer ainda pessoa
o que Seha decomer, enao de no tal Risco Sem pra-
zo, exiſtindo detanto tempo Sem que venha deoutras terras, ed
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Page 7
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**[Pagina 1]**
**[Texto Principal]**
...[nou]eemos atroves de faZendas dos naturaes, como se dize, de
nós com grande aperto, e limitaçaõ, e quasi as escuras, que se
poderemos uiver nesta Cidade vindo V. Mg.de julgar.
Para remedio de tantos males, e danos, temos sido
como Leaes VaSallos por sustentar esta praça a V.Mg.de, mais
que notaveis Religiozos, e muitas allegaçoes da dita parte,
ao Pequim com despeza de grandes somas de dinheiro, por
mão de gente de governo que nesta provincia distante desta
Cidade oitenta Leguas, assistem a fim de fazermos noSso caso,
mandarem a seu emBaixador no Pequim com despeza de muitas
mil patacas, e promessa de muitas mais; com esperanças de que
Com todo o poder do Chins he hum, e a força desta moeda poderoza, por
devemos alcançar Despacho, que por [UNCERTAIN: Sidangerios], e sempre se
desviarem das suas ordens, mereceixemos, mas não se nos deo athe o presen:
te o pedido; teuveremos algum melhoramento, mas antes
achando mais aperto, e rigores Si, e tantos que os Religiozos da
Companhia de Jesus, os Padres Domingos, e chos Fran.cos que nesta proi:
vincia da dita China se empregavão na pregaçaõ do Santo Evangelho con:
que a V.Mg.de tanto agrada, se tomem, e tenhão rethido os Padres dos
Lugares donde asistiaõ, e estão la mezes retheudos em Can:
tão, que bem se lhes faZem mal algum, com todo naõ querem
que preguem verdades, nem lhes faraõ christãos a Seus natraes,
Pais, mas como a Ley de nosso Deos adonde se mais persegue
la, ve se a Ser mais exaltada em sua Divina Mg.de aproveden
Cia, esperamos hão de quando mais for seruida de conhecer
estes barbaros o mal que nos faZem, e bem que em naõ conhe:
Cer a Deos perdem.
Esta Cidade he assy, e o estado em que nos uemos, que nos obriga
go a pedir com instancia ao V. Rey da India, mande Embaixador
da esta Corte do Pequim em nome de V.Mg.de, ou que mande bar:
Cos para desta terra outros da jurisdiçaõ de V.Mg.de nos
puderemos, por final Vendo Tais Senhor que a embaixada
uenha, ou não seia aceita, nem a conta do dinheiro que
temos despendido, e denouo offerecido p.ra nos melhorarem po
deremos Sustentar, e alcansar que nesta Asia os ditos Chins são ouvidos
que mais nesta terra vivemos, e como os juizos, e decretos dos ditos
Chins saõ emcomprehensiueis, desta feitamente neceSsario, que
Com Sua divina vontade nos subsistimos, a mesma a V. Mg.de
prospere e guarde com as majores felicidades que a fe dos ditos
Reinos, e estado de V. Mg.de deSejamos. Macao, 6 de 8bro
de 1666 = @
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*Nenhuma.*
**[Carimbos]**
[No centro, à esquerda] Selo redondo com as armas de Portugal ao centro, e a inscrição "ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL" a toda a volta.
**[Assinaturas]**
Rafael Arris de Morales, aSsever
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**[Texto Principal]**
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**[Anotações marginais]**
[No topo da página, em caligrafia diferente do corpo do texto principal]
Escriuaõ da Camara desta Cidade do nome de ds’ na china
em meza o sob escreuy
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[No centro, à direita]
Selo branco, circular, com brasão no centro, maioritariamente ilegível.
**[Assinaturas]**
[Na parte inferior do documento, várias assinaturas sobrepostas com rubricas]
M.el Coetho de silua
[Com rubrica]
Luis P.te Machado
[Com rubrica]
Mel P.e de Almada
[Com rubrica]
An.to Fr.co
[Com rubrica]
Ant.o Arriaga
[Com rubrica]
[Assinatura/Rubrica estilizada em forma de 'S' com floreados]
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**[Página 1]**
**[Texto Principal]**
[No topo, linha de identificação]
Macao ------- 4 de Nov.ro -------- 666
[Texto de sumário/dossier]
(Dos off.es da Cam.a de Macao.
Sobre o estado miseravel em q se
acha aquella Cidade, por falta de
comercio; e por os Tartaros mandar
retirar a seus vassallos das terras tor-
ras maritimas; E pedem se lhe en
vie Embaix.or
[Abaixo do texto principal, um bloco de texto com aproximadamente 8-10 linhas, completamente desvanecido e ilegível.]
**[Carimbos]**
* **[No topo, à esquerda]** Carimbo circular, parcialmente visível, com letras maiúsculas. Lê-se `[UNCLEAR: ...MAS...]`
* **[No centro]** Marca de água ou carimbo moderno, de grande dimensão e muito desvanecido, do Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino, com as letras "AHU".
Page 10
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**[Página 1]**
**[Referências arquivísticas]**
* [No topo, à direita]: H72
* [No topo, à esquerda]: Macao
* [No topo, ao centro]: L.4. de Nov.o
* [No topo, à direita]: 666
**[Texto Principal]**
Dos off.es da Cam.ra de Macao.
[O texto principal está dividido em dois blocos de texto paralelos, com o bloco da direita começando mais acima na página]
[Bloco de texto à direita]
Sobre serem pedidos ao V Rey enuio de
Embaix.a ao Tartaro, p.a q. permittir
o comerçio, e navegaçaõ de barcos
p.a o vnico remedio dos m.dres de
aquella Cide.
[Bloco de texto à esquerda e abaixo]
q se lhe Escruem nas duas Rs.
pella Vontade afeta de M.or
porem he’ comta da m.ta falta q’ ha em brios dos
srs. ou Vassallos, e naõ de naõ haverem Padres
pa q.’ [UNCERTAIN: seruindo] ag.m desses postos em peq.m p.a q.
thratem pessaõ e particular, nos negoçeos q.’
soffrerem p.a S.S.a e p.a o bom sucesso da embaixada
espera S. Ex.a qdo for dg.a della e for
Commercio, em q V Rey ha de hir, opporse a S. Ex.a
particularm.te vindo p.a M.ce for de sua Com
panhia edoutrina. q’ 31 de Nov.o de 66.
**[Anotações marginais]**
* [Na margem esquerda, uma grande chaveta abrange todo o corpo do texto principal. Dentro da área da chaveta, estão os seguintes números, alinhados verticalmente]:
2
3
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* [No canto inferior esquerdo]: Carimbo circular com as letras "AHU" (Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino).
**[Assinaturas]**
* [Abaixo do corpo do texto, à esquerda]: O S.or [RUBRICA ILEGÍVEL] Galez
Translation
Page 1
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page 1]
[Marginal annotations]
[At the top, centre]
+
Sir.
[Stamps]
[Centre left, overlapping the text]
Circular seal with the coat of arms of Portugal at its centre, surrounded by the inscription: "ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO COLONIAL * DAS COLONIAS".
[Bottom left corner]
Oval stamp in blue ink, bearing the text: "AHU".
[Main Text]
However unfortunate the fate that has befallen this municipal council, and however little
of this city’s letter to the Royal Majesty of Your Most Gracious Lordship—which
God preserve—was received by the hand of Captain André Lo. Po., who
arrived in this city in July of sixty-four, making his return in the same year,
accompanied by expressions of the joy which was universally felt upon its receipt,
[illegible] —the second [letter] following the fortunate and auspicious acclamation of His Majesty
King Dom João, our Lord, to whom may such glory belong as he so richly deserves—this Council
has not failed, since that time until the present, in fulfilling its duty to inform Your Most Gracious Lordship
of the deteriorating conditions in each successive year, as this city has increasingly suffered
from the lack of commerce, by which it had previously been made so prosperous and renowned,
particularly due to trade with China, which held the greatest importance; and further, owing to the
various wars [UNCERTAIN: e varias] stirred within this empire since the year sixty-six onwards, arising from
uprisings and changes of monarch and government, for which we have never received
any response, despite having repeatedly and earnestly communicated to the Viceroys and
Governors of India the distress caused by this situation, without their providing sufficient relief
to encourage us or alleviate the hardships stemming from this prolonged deprivation, which has become a source of great affliction.
Indeed, through your intervention, we hoped to find redress from this twofold suffering,
and yet we lament deeply, observing how, despite being so near and almost within sight, during every monsoon season—
in each of which we petitioned for remedies to this crisis—our requests were met only
with insufficient troops for garrison duty, given the critical shortage thereof, together with inadequate funds
by which soldiers might be properly maintained—
Page 2
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page 2]
[Main Text]
in order that, with the posts and fortresses retained, our residents might be able to venture forth to seek sustenance in other lands, thereby maintaining their families here; all measures were taken and everything represented and made manifest was so well understood that it is more a matter of sorrow than mere report to Your Most Serene Majesty. Nevertheless, matters have now reached such an extreme point that we find ourselves unable, under increasing pressure from this Tartar government, to make further representations to the Viceroy of India—unless he should see fit, as a great service to Your Majesty, to assist this city with whatever means he deems generally necessary and sufficient.
We have undertaken the defence of this City so that, come what ruin may from the strict embargo imposed by the King [of China], we may at least stand secure. Moreover, what is being requested of him is the physical presence of an envoy, who, in the name of Your Majesty, shall proceed with his embassy to the Court of Peking—this being the only remedy we perceive and have discerned through sound counsel and careful consideration. It is also the matter of greatest importance for preserving the trade relations and commercial position of this post and city so vital to Your Majesty, both for the honour of Your arms and crown, and for the good of Christendom—especially given that many others depend upon this place for their livelihood.
For nearly five years now, all trade and navigation have been prohibited to us by the Chinese authorities, upon which this community has traditionally subsisted. Indeed, we are already on the verge of collapse, without any favourable response or reward for our loyal service—something we can only hope to obtain through the intervention of an Ambassador from Your Majesty, sent from India, vested with full powers. His Majesty the King would thus maintain this settlement, for without such support we cannot possibly sustain ourselves here, even though we strive and endeavour to do so at the expense of our own private fortunes. This effort will continue until we are utterly destitute—until we have drained the very veins of our resources, if required to uphold Your Majesty’s interests, should necessity demand it.
We have already advised the Viceroy of India that, due to the arrogance of these Tartars, the imperial court may refuse to receive an embassy; yet even in such a case of refusal, war must not be ruled out. For to allow such a slight against the royal arms of Your Majesty would be intolerable. Instructions should therefore be issued to the person of the Ambassador as to how he ought to act in such a contingency, since it would be easier to sell one’s life—or anything else—than to suffer dishonour.
[Marginal Notes]
* [Left margin, aligned with line 33, correcting the beginning of the line]
Co~ [i.e., contraction or correction for "Com" or "Como"]
[Stamps] or [Seals]
Not visible.
[Signatures]
Not visible.
[Archival References]
Not visible.
Page 3
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page 1]
[Main Text]
remaining forever in their blessed memory, who have endured
such hardship as they have never before experienced with a godfounded nation:
Europeans appear to them to possess no greater worth than their own,
in which they are deeply invested; for although they fight well and
with great fervour, yet what they most rely upon is endurance, and patience.
And we likewise advise Your Royal Highness that, even if you do not grant
the appointment of an Ambassador, you should at least send us sufficiently large
and adequate vessels so that we may travel from this land to any other
with credit and reputation; placing ourselves under the jurisdiction of Your Majesty,
which Your Majesty has duly established for the good of these Christian communities and the importance
of maintaining this stronghold within Your Majesty’s royal crown, as best pleases Your Majesty.
As for the matters which must be undertaken in order for these Tartars to reach
the condition we have described, a separate account shall be provided,
so that Your Majesty may receive the clarity which we are bound to deliver.
Nevertheless, whenever it seems fitting to Your Majesty to command it, and as may suit
Your royal Crown, we pray that Your Majesty may prosper and be preserved with ever-
greater felicities than those enjoyed by the whole realm and state of Your Majesty, as
your faithful vassals we desire. Macao, 14 December 1666.
The undersigned, Most Illustrious Sir Rafael Arias de Morales, assessors, and
notaries of the municipal council of this City, in the name of our Lord God,
hereunto subscribed.
[Marginal Notes]
[Left margin, text partially cut off]
[UNCLEAR: e]
[UNCLEAR: de]
[UNCLEAR: e]
[UNCLEAR: com]
vel:
ha:
er,
ir,
te:
sa
ia
lar
tãs
s
[Seals]
[Bottom right-centre of page]
Circular seal bearing the arms of Portugal (shield with the five quinas) at its centre, encircled by a laurel wreath. Inscription around the border:
ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO COLONIAL LISBOA
[Signatures]
[Beneath main text, centred]
[ILLEGIBLE SIGNATURE: M.el Go.e tho.a da fillua]
[Ornate flourish / signature mark]
---
Notes on Translation:
- The original Portuguese is written in early modern orthography with abbreviations typical of 17th-century administrative documents. These have been expanded and rendered into standard British academic English.
- Terms such as "Tartars", "Christandades", and "Embaixador" reflect period usage and have been translated or retained accordingly ("Tartars" being a historical exonym used in European sources for various Central and East Asian peoples).
- "V. Mg.e" rendered as "Your Majesty" throughout, consistent with formal address in Portuguese colonial correspondence.
- "Camara desta Cidade" translated as "municipal council of this City", reflecting the institutional role of the câmara in Portuguese colonial governance.
- Religious invocation "nome de s.or nader:na em meza asobrescrjvy" interpreted as "in the name of our Lord God, hereunto subscribed", based on common formulaic phrasing in ecclesiastical-administrative documents of the era.
- All structural elements (marginalia, seals, signatures) preserved to maintain archival integrity for scholarly citation.
Page 4
--- TRANSLATION ---
The transcription of this document is presented below, following the requested structure and adhering to historical document transcription standards.
*
[Page 2 – Verso]
[Main Text]
[The main text is virtually illegible due to extreme fading of the ink, rendering transcription impossible.]
[Marginal Annotations]
[No marginal annotations visible.]
[Stamps] or [Seals]
[In the lower third of the page, centred]
- Circular black-ink stamp featuring the coat of arms of Portugal at its centre, surrounded by the inscription: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO ULTRAMARINO.
[Signatures]
[At the top, from left to right]
- [Illegible autograph]
Mello de Alviar
- [Illegible autograph]
Luis Machorro
- [Illegible autograph]
Mel de Almada
- [Illegible autograph]
Antº fcº
[In the lower left portion of the page]
- [Illegible signature]
Page 5
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page]
[Top right corner]
+
Srs.
[Main Text]
[Ornamental capital letter “P” at the beginning of the text]
By reason of Sarda Isa and Iunmes, during whose minority this Tartar government was administered in Perada, it has since been governed by four Governors. However, one of their vassals, named Cocem, rose up against them, as did another, Iqued, who, according to Chinese annals, for many years has ruled with great power over territories within the Chin-e-heo Su-gei-tas region of this empire. He has extended his influence through maritime navigation and foreign trade to such a height that he dared to attack the Island of Formosa, capturing it from the Dutch by force and overcoming their resistance. As lord of many ports—among which he had pledged several in pawn—he confidently expected, with two powerful naval armadas, to restore his dominion; yet these efforts proved entirely ineffective, resulting instead in considerable loss and discredit. Indeed, those whom he sought to reclaim were won over by others through skill and generous gifts.
Meanwhile, Sum Tegulo, a Tartar ruler established in the same lands of Chin-e-heo, maintains his authority with great power, though nominally subject to the Tartars, albeit with much dissimulation. Nevertheless, by divine permission, he fell ill—more severely than anticipated—due to the conflicts he had expected.
In view of these events, the Court of Peking decreed that all forms of navigation be prohibited to its vassals, extending even to fishermen, ordering that no vessel should put to sea nor remain upon its waters; furthermore, coastal populations were required to withdraw inland five or six leagues from the shore. This caused immense hardship among innocent subjects and significantly diminished the substantial revenue previously derived from maritime activities. The abandoned territories resulted in incalculable losses. It was understood that secret communications and illicit dealings between these rebellious vassals were what had made them so prosperous and powerful—that very connection which had enabled their rise—had now been disrupted.
Page 6
--- TRANSLATION INTO MODERN UK ACADEMIC ENGLISH ---
[Main Text]
arms and laws not only to refuse obedience, but even to resort to force in order to subjugate them—
This general Edict was promulgated from Peking throughout all the outlying islands of its dominion, where this notable punishment reached—a chastisement never before seen or heard of. For without fault or crime committed against their King, nor any breach of loyalty, his own native vassals have been destroyed, ruined, and put to death by reason of their tombs and stone monuments, and ovens for baking bread, being razed; their livelihoods lost and plundered, such a spectacle so remarkable and extraordinary that even to behold it with one’s own eyes seems incredible.
This affliction has persisted for years, as we have observed during this disruption upon the sea. And although we were not involved in the causes affecting others, our situation has been far worse: we have been deprived of navigation to our ports, of common trade and commerce which we customarily conducted with local merchants. Indeed, no Chinese person—man or woman, regardless of age—remained; all withdrew inland under penalty of immediate execution for any delay in obedience. Thus, this city was left without anyone who could provide us with food or sell us the basic necessities of life. Moreover, considering that we are foreigners (as this government regards us), and having come from distant lands, they did not consider it reasonable that we should seek subsistence through persistent effort across a strait which separates their territory from neighbouring foreign lands at considerable distance. Consequently, we were compelled, at great hardship, to seek daily provisions amid cold, rain, and calm weather, often finding sustenance only once every ten days. Eventually, people from Sines and Comsines arrived—
From this point began the fatal ruin on the fourth day of May in the year sixteen hundred and sixty-two. Since then, up to the present, we have endured famine, continuing to suffer these harsh conditions, sustaining and preserving this stronghold and Christian community within the royal Crown and dominion of Your Majesty, despite the immense cost. The greatest harm we face is our inability to navigate freely, since maritime trade—the traffic and commerce upon which we depend—is denied to us. Although with great difficulty we receive, from outside this island, perhaps one or two vessels per year, the return cargo from here is insufficient to sustain those who rely on it, as was formerly customary. Therefore, now, in the hope of divine grace through the Lord, there remains scarcely anyone willing to remain here at such risk, indefinitely, especially given the prolonged absence of contact or supply from other lands, and—
[Marginal Notes]
(None)
[Seals or Stamps]
(None)
[Signatures]
(None)
[Archival References]
(None)
---
Translator’s Note:
This translation preserves the formal tone and historical context of the original 17th-century Portuguese colonial document. Terms such as "vassallos," "trato," and "praça" have been rendered as "vassals," "trade/commerce," and "stronghold" respectively, reflecting their administrative and military usage in early modern imperial contexts. British spelling conventions (e.g., "harbour," "customary") have been applied throughout. The structure, including paragraph breaks and textual gaps, follows the original transcription to maintain fidelity for scholarly citation. The text appears to describe the isolation and suffering of a European (likely Portuguese) Christian enclave in East Asia following a punitive edict issued from Beijing, possibly linked to Qing dynasty policies towards foreign residents circa 1662.
Page 7
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page 1]
[Main Text]
...we have traversed the estates of the native inhabitants, as they are called, enduring great hardship and restriction, almost in darkness, such that Your Magnificence may judge how difficult our situation has become in this City.
To remedy so many evils and damages, we have acted like loyal vassals in upholding this settlement for Your Magnificence, beyond notable religious orders and numerous appeals made on our behalf to Peking, at the expense of large sums of money, entrusted to government agents stationed in this province—located eighty leagues from this City—with the aim of advancing our cause. They dispatched an ambassador to Peking at a cost of many thousands of patacas, with promises of even greater sums, in the hope that, given the Chinese Emperor’s supreme authority and the persuasive power of such substantial currency, we might obtain a favourable dispatch. Yet, despite [UNCERTAIN: Sidangerios], and their continual disregard of their own directives, no response has been granted to our petition to date. We had hoped for some improvement, but instead we find ourselves under increased pressure and stricter measures. Indeed, the severity is such that the missionaries of the Society of Jesus, the Dominican Fathers, and the Franciscan friars who were engaged in preaching the Holy Gospel throughout this region of China—work which greatly pleases Your Magnificence—have been seized and detained. The priests have been removed from the places where they resided and are now held captive in Canton for months, suffering ill treatment. Moreover, they are forbidden to preach the truth, nor will they be permitted to convert the native population, not even their own parents, to Christianity. Yet, just as the Law of our God is most fiercely persecuted wherever it is found, so too may it be exalted all the more through His Divine Majesty’s providence. We trust that, in time, these barbarians shall come to recognise the harm they inflict upon us, and understand the grave loss they suffer by failing to acknowledge God.
This City is thus situated, and such is our present condition, that we are compelled to earnestly entreat the Viceroy of India either to send an ambassador to the Court of Peking in the name of Your Magnificence, or else dispatch ships enabling those under the jurisdiction of Your Magnificence from other lands to reach us. Ultimately, should such an embassy be received—or even accepted—we must consider not only the considerable expenditure already incurred, but also the further funds offered for the purpose of improving our circumstances. Without such support, we shall be unable to sustain ourselves or achieve our aims. It must be recognised that in Asia, the said Chinese hold significant influence; the longer we remain in this land, the more evident it becomes that the judgments and decrees of the Chinese authorities are incomprehensible. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary—by His divine will—that we continue to subsist, as we humbly pray that the same Divine Providence may prosper and preserve Your Magnificence with the greatest felicity, as desired by the faithful of Your Magnificence’s realms and dominions.
Macau, 6 August 1666 = @
[Marginal Notes]
None.
[Stamps]
[Centre, left-hand side] Circular seal bearing the royal arms of Portugal at its centre, with the inscription "ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO COLONIAL" encircling the perimeter.
[Signatures]
Rafael Arris de Morales, affirming
Page 8
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Main Text]
[The main body of the document is almost entirely illegible due to ink fading. It occupies most of the page, extending from below the upper marginal note down to the area above the signatures.]
[Marginal Annotations]
[At the top of the page, in handwriting distinct from that of the main text body]
Letter from the Council of this City, by name ds’ in China,
placed on the table under subscription
[Seals]
[Centre right of the page]
White circular seal, bearing a central coat of arms; predominantly illegible.
[Signatures]
[At the foot of the document, multiple overlapping signatures with accompanying flourishes (rubrics)]
M.el Coetho de Silva
[With rubric]
Luis P.te Machado
[With rubric]
Mel P.e de Almada
[With rubric]
An.to Fr.co
[With rubric]
Ant.o Arriaga
[With rubric]
[Stylised signature/rubric in the form of an ornate 'S' with decorative flourishes]
Page 9
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page 1]
[Main Text]
[Top line – identification header]
Macao — 4th November — 1666
[Summary/file note]
(From the officers of the Câmara of Macao.
Regarding the deplorable condition in which
that city currently finds itself, due to the lack of
trade; and because the Tartars have ordered
their vassals to withdraw from the coastal
territories; and they request that an
embassy be sent to them.)
[Below the main text, a block of approximately 8–10 lines is entirely faded and illegible.]
[Stamps/Seals]
* [Top left] Circular stamp, partially visible, bearing capital letters. Partially legible as `[UNCLEAR: ...MAS...]`
* [Centre] Large, heavily faded watermark or modern stamp of the Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino, bearing the letters "AHU".
Page 10
--- TRANSLATION ---
Here is the comprehensive, structured transcription of the document translated into modern UK academic English.
[Page 1]
[Archival References]
* [Top right]: H72
* [Top left]: Macao
* [Top centre]: L.4. de Nov.o
* [Top right]: 666
[Main Text]
From the officers of the Chamber of Macao.
[The main text is divided into two parallel blocks, with the right-hand block beginning higher on the page.]
[Right-hand text block]
Concerning the request to be made to the King for the dispatch of an
embassy to Tartary, so that trade and navigation by ship
might be permitted, as the sole remedy for the hardships suffered by
the inhabitants of this city.
[Left-hand text block, positioned below]
that they write to him in both Royal Courts,
out of a willing desire for greater favour;
yet it is accounted that the great deficiency lies not in the absence of priests,
but rather in the lack of courage among gentlemen or vassals. Nevertheless, there are Fathers
who [UNCERTAIN: serving] act in these posts in small number, so that
they may conduct themselves personally and privately in matters which
must be endured for His Majesty’s service and for the successful outcome of the embassy.
His Excellency awaits confirmation of this matter when it is deemed appropriate, and when
commerce—on which the King is expected to embark—is established, His Excellency will
particularly oppose any such mission coming to Macao under the auspices of his Company
and doctrinal instruction. 31st November 1666.
[Marginal Annotations]
* [Left margin: a large bracket encompasses the entire body of the main text. Within the bracketed area, the following numbers are aligned vertically]:
2
3
[Seals]
* [Bottom left corner]: Circular stamp bearing the letters "AHU" (Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino).
[Signatures]
* [Below the main text, left side]: The Lord [ILLEGIBLE RUBRIC] Galez
--- END OF TRANSLATION ---
Notes for Academic Use:
- All dates follow the Old Style calendar; "31 de Nov.o de 66" refers to 31 November 1666.
- "Tartaro" is rendered as "Tartary", reflecting early modern European geographical nomenclature for Central and East Asia.
- "V Rey" translated as "the King", referring to the Portuguese monarch.
- "Companhia" refers contextually to the Jesuit order ("Company of Jesus"), commonly termed Companhia de Jesus in Portuguese colonial documents.
- The term "doctrina" pertains to religious instruction, particularly catechetical teaching associated with missionary activity.
- The rubric remains undeciphered due to illegibility in the original manuscript.
- AHU: Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino (Overseas Historical Archive), Lisbon — standard archival reference for Portuguese colonial records.
This translation adheres to British English conventions and maintains the formal register suitable for scholarly publication and archival citation.
Anexo
1670/03/31
Parecer do Conselho Ultramarino a [D. Afonso VI], rei de Portugal, em que comunica
a Macau de que a embaixada de Manuel de Saldanha foi aceite pela corte de Pequim.