Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão
This document is a translation of a highly corrupt seventeenth-century Portuguese manuscript from the Overseas Historical Archive, dated 1856 but concerning events and correspondence from 1626 to 1646. It comprises a series of fragmented reports, royal decrees, and council opinions regarding the eco...
Saved in:
| Format: | Manuscripts |
|---|---|
| Published: |
1646-09-07
|
| Subjects: |
China Trade Silver
;
Conselho Ultramarino
;
D. João V
;
Estado da Índia
;
Japan Trade Restrictions
;
Macau Commerce
;
Macau Economic Viability
;
Macau Rebellion Threat
;
Macau Silver Trade
;
Manila Trade Route
;
Overseas Historical Archive Goa
;
Portuguese Colonial Administration
;
Portuguese-Castile Division
;
Salvador Corrêa de Sá
;
Manuscripts
|
| Online Access: | https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/SED58JB4/viewer_SED58JB4.html |
| _version_ | 1877197620685832192 |
|---|---|
| archiveLocation | PT/AHU/CU/062/0001/00056 |
| building | Portugal. Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino |
| collection | Portugal. Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino |
| description | This document is a translation of a highly corrupt seventeenth-century Portuguese manuscript from the Overseas Historical Archive, dated 1856 but concerning events and correspondence from 1626 to 1646. It comprises a series of fragmented reports, royal decrees, and council opinions regarding the economic and political state of Macau and Portuguese trade in Asia. The central subject is the critical importance of silver to the China trade, upon which the prosperity and survival of Macau depended. The text details the three primary sources of silver for this commerce: from the Portuguese kingdom, from Japan (a trade then restricted), and from Manila. It reveals deep anxieties within the Portuguese colonial administration that the closure of the Japan trade and the scarcity of silver from Europe, compounded by the political division between Portugal and Castile, threatened Macau’s viability. The documents explicitly warn that the city’s wealthy and warlike inhabitants, driven by economic necessity, might rebel against the Crown. Proposed remedies include permitting Macau’s merchants to trade with Manila in designated ports of friendly kingdoms, but only as a temporary measure until the Japan trade could be reopened. Key figures mentioned include Salvador Correia de Sá and King João III, with the text reflecting the strategic and commercial challenges facing the Portuguese Estado da Índia in the mid-seventeenth century. Obs.: Resolução favorável do rei Anexo: 1646-11-15 - Provisão (cópia) de [D. João IV], rei de Portugal, para o vice-rei do Estado da Índia, [D. Filipe de Mascarenhas], em que deu ordem para Macau poder comerciar com Manila, enquanto se encontra fechado o comércio com o Japão. |
| first_indexed | 2026-05-17T17:35:33Z |
| format | Manuscripts |
| fulltext | [transcription]
{{PAGE:1}}
[Page]
1856
[Marginalia — top left]
Macau
6.9.1646
[Marginalia — top right]
1856
[Stamp — left margin, middle]
[ circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO ULTRAMARINO ]
[Main text]
aprispall conçio Emu fam pid 30 Puros da China Cohite na preata fim a soal
dChina ja ao mi tem mal trela a outra forte de 37 qrem que fad oem sa pegada
aj pree frotoz dengy doj que lly Paro/ que hema ou ro ambe al my lee perella/ Do
Com dia ma tealgens q fremao de roque valla m? / jdo/ Ceno a Impella
mde la cua e outrom/ [UNCLEAR: best interpretation] Soj au ta o my torque forhte qvippel Comerio de
tode o Xn Limte Elar omtreli della prata que os portugese ptuaray aquelle
Puro & for intio dusimdo por Depo della cd embaqueta farao in elle mefao
aquella fiade e adimitida apsara elle fra amitade dos Chins que Comefado por
pavafos de poulog macg doe che de ama pripat ema / Priquo fidale g ving
tem entodo octado da imera fiepo de Infanti na mira & Amora do ey della
que auvee ou no qvam quinde pero deml por reelle/ Caft todo/ qonte depri
pal que houma um tra fedal goj em toldotagica no melha do quelle stato
egue nella foravam de fajutari contra Caroy degoria
dta preata fead que via para aquelle Comerio por Requia mant Joffe R foundo nelle
enterea dela stella e tinha meno qualor torque fe interetaca ele gona fa a 50 por 100
da qui? ainda uno tempo proximo m? mai arz o que se tirava do japao foudo
estava livres aquelle Comerio que oi premi trea duy oe leia 3 aqueli Peg gatauo
em manilla da 9 the vai elaroua e panha Somer lanfia y Oportage de malav
alli lucocai -que oi falta po la Divifao delle R° a de Castella
sim do so ettej o meioj por onde os portugelle llevauan prata afina nemog oiz
que della R° the vai m? porla afim im brefao denno como solo
fado preffo enqweffa e lm befai delle febtrwe fan m? porlo da qem p a india egue
o Comerio do japao eta fe Pade e tambem o da malitta, com iffo etai o mocados
re de malav fattor e o principal Comerio parecfeu devee com furuan na amitade do
Chinaj de que depende total m? te aforjurcao da quella fida efey mocado rez
que loms gente tau Priquo favra he bellis (Ota etau a fato) da viita de Vmg he
do estado da india /epode ter que o brigador de nelitidade fe altorem na
o beli enfia que deuem aving com seu uafa ho ellesij portugelles Cauas com
que a llamarai a vmg com gra de valor ede mortes fas e buique a preata de ma
millo Comerio de nouo e spanha veed que amai tom llenau uas deste R° ne
he abee o Comerio de ia pad
epfa afodir podiv preuenir catalhar hu dicho tau preuerifiall e intiperancull
que pode ca fotedir na que lla fide de Com afata da prata brifaffo & o Comerio do
Japao finav abea me pareffe que cleue Vmg fer firuido madan ao Vd da india
que Como deffi premi ta que os mocadores de malav potho Comerhian (Do je ma
nilla em foalfqun do pottoj dos Reijs noto amigos da quelle archipelago q mai a
Commdach foi para o tal Comer fio tem que mentu sfortu ge fpota hivama nilla nem
aoutro porto de nhii dor Castelhanos ne elle virum amafas ne aport renhun nofo
eq ello primi fan fein falbanto o Comerio do coçab eftrur felhado Com oque afegues
Vmg de aque lla fide o Comerio o hemedio presipal ele to da aindia e Imfontidivee
{{PAGE:2}}
[Stamp — center left]
[ circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTORICO DAS COLONIAS / M. DAS C. ]
[Main text]
faz que vmg permita aduano neste Reino porça em utilidade delle onas
acundo de prento o Prefeito que fom Sua real fidelidade de mal ao Espodio altevar
o infeliz aborafao delle forrafeicur trette Chua carta d VR em felipe marz que
desfi llar esfrexus agor avofond de nuivos jenque mppa los delle parecer
[Signature]
João da Silva
[Marginalia — right side, vertical]
[UNCLEAR: handwritten annotations in cursive, partially overlapping main text]
[Stamp — lower right]
[ circular stamp: (Selo ilegível) ]
[Page]
[ILLEGIBLE: ~3 chars at top right corner]
{{PAGE:3}}
[Page]
N.º 3°
[Marginalia — top left]
Cópia
4-9-606
Resolução
Como parece. Lisboa vinte e dous de Outubro de mil seiscentos quarenta, e seis // Breij //
[Marginalia — top right]
Senhor
[Stamp — top center]
[Circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO DAS COLÓNIAIS]
[Main text]
O principal Comercio, e mercancia do Reino da China contém prata, tem igual os Chinas admitem mal toda a outra sorte de fazendas, que com ella também se paga as preciosas drogas daquelles Reinos, que se manda ouro, pérolas, Almiras, Sedas, Brobin, Diamantes; mas sedas, eram, com peças de cobre; outras muitas preciosas mercadorias, em que contém o principal Comercio do Oriente. Que o interesse desta prata, que os Portugueses levavão áquelle Reino, se foi introduzido por causa della, e de outras mercancias, em Macão aquella cidade, e admitido os Portugueses na amizade dos Chinas, que começando por pouca gente de poucos moradores, se fez a mais opulenta, e principal, e mais esta cidade, que vota ligeireza tem em todo o estado da India, crescendo em tanto numero os moradores, que haverá hoje nella perto de mil Portugueses, quasi toda gente da principal, que anda nas Indias, alguns Fidalgos, e muitos soldados velhos na milícia daquele estado, e que nella senhora de capitanes, contra largo de guerra.
Esta prata, se adquiria para aquelle Comercio por tres vias: a primeira, da moeda deste Reino, quando nela entrava de fantella, e tinha menos valor, com que se intercambiava Segamanias alimento.
[Signature]
alimento
{{PAGE:4}}
alimcoenta postento, daque para a India,
em tempos proximo, no mais. et segundo,
aque se tirava do Japam, quando estava livre
aquelle Comercio, que hoje permitirad. oestaça.
Terceira, aque se dengetavam em ellanilha, deque
lhe vai denova Perguntas das mercantias, que
os Portugueses deellaias adi Seuavad., que hoje
falta, pella divizad deste Reino adefantella.
E lendo estes ormeios posindo os Portugueses
Seuavad. prata alina, como hoje, que deste
Reino lhe vai mundo pouco, alim, em larad.
Denad. Ser munta, como pello levantado preço,
em que esta; em larad. delle se intenderar
mundo pouo nella degui para a India);
E que o commercio do Japam esta tornado, e:
tambem daellanilha, e com illo entad or Mora-
dor deellaias fato do principal Comercio,
para se poderem conservar na amizade dos
Chinas, deque depende, totalmt - a conservad
daquella fidade, e seus Moradores, que como gente
tad Vica, farta, ebelicosa, etad. afartados davinta
dev. ellogd°., edo estado da Indias, le pode temer,
que obrigado danecessitade, se alterem nas
obediencias, que devem av. ellogd°.; como seus
vallallos, e leaes Portugueses, cauza, conque
a clamorad. av. ellogd°. com grande calor, e de-
monstrad, e burquem aprata deellanilha, e lo
mercio denova Perguntas, vendo que lhe ned
vai denovo Reino, nem se abre o Comercio do Japad.
E para
{{PAGE:5}}
[Stamp — left margin]
[ circular stamp: ARQUIVO COLONIAL / 1763 ]
[Main text]
E para se poder prevenir, castellar hum damno tão prejudicial, e pera que el rey da India, que poderá suceder em aquella cidade, com falta de prata, em tanto, que os mercadores do Japão se não abra.
Parece ao conselho, que deve o rey ser servido mandar escrever ao Rey da India, que como deli permitte, que os moradores de allião possão comerciar, com as Manilhas, em qualquer dos portos do Rey, nos amigos daquelle Archipelago, que mais acomodado for para o tal Comercio, que escreve Rey nomeará; tem que nenhum Portugues possa ir as Manilhas, nem outro porto nenhum dos Castelhanos, nem elles virem a allião, nem aporto nenhum dello; e que esta permissão seja emquanto os commercios do Japão estiver fechado: Como que allega o rey aquella cidade, e os mercadores, Remedio principal de toda a India: Em consideração de que o rey permite aturar neste Reino, por ter sim, em utilidade delle, em d. lavendo depremeio o dito, que concorre, na piedade de allião dele poder alterar, com abonação do que aqui se diz avolla allegentado, levo neste conselho sua carta do dize: Rey Dom Felippe ellas fins, degue comenta contaba se envia a copia do capitulo, que trata desta materia, que de leitao, entregues a Goa ao fonde de Alcivas, em que diz, Se deste parecer.
Salvador Correa de Sá, e Saad. Delgado Figueira
[Signature]
al reverendissimo, que lhe parece, que estes moradores de Malaca, levem moios para poderem com logarancia tratar
{{PAGE:6}}
[Page]
15
[Main text]
tractar em Manilha, lhe permitto com declara-
ção, que o de Manilha, vassallo del Rey de Por-
tugal não poderá vir a elleis, porque assim
fique aquella cidade mais livre em seu tracto;
e isto tem o dito concedido aos naturaes deste
Reyno, para irem com seus navios, e Escravos,
a Indias de Portugal, e Buenos aires; e os favos
que lhe lhes conceder, que mais de comprar fazendas,
o podem fazer. Lisboa sete de Setembro de mil
cento quarenta, e seis )) Oellarques )) Jorge
de Fartilho )) Jorge de Albuquerque )) João
Delgado )) Salvador Correa de Sá. ))
[Signature]
João Miguez Pacheco
{{PAGE:7}}
[Page]
N.54
[Marginalia — top left]
Copia
646
15-XI-
[Marginalia — top right]
HESA1
[Main text]
V. Rey da India &c. Sou informado que o principal Comercio da China consiste somente na prata, Sem aqual esta Nação admite mal todo outro genero de fazendas, Degastando-se com ella as prezas drogas daquelle Reyno que se Anuito Ouro, aombe, almiscar, perolas, Rubins, Diamantes muitas Sedas Cruas corrupceas e Outras Mercadorias de muito preço em que Consiste o principal Comercio detodo o Oriente. E por que do Reyno vai hoje muito pouca prata, a Sy com razão da falta della como de Levantado preco a que tem Subido por Cauza daquella, Se entendea pouco, embedivar daqui para a India estar Esse Serrado o Comercio do Japão e Manilla, comque os moradores da Cidade de Macão estão faltos do principal Comercio para Sepodem Comer var namirade dos hinas, de que depende o tal Comercio daquella Cidade, que como gente Rica, e belicosa, estão afastados da minha Soberania Real e deste Estado, Sepodem temer que obrigados da necessidade e Scaltarem na obediencia que me devem, e considerando Eu os particulares Desordos. Alem anço ordenar vos como por outro faco, que para Sepoder atallar a dito damno tão prejudicial e Esparavel atoda a India, que como deveis, permitam a que os moradores da dita fidade de Macão possão Comerciar Como os de Manilla em qualquer do Porto dos Reys amigos daquelle Archeipilago, que mais a Comodado for, para stal Comercio o qual vos nomeareis Sem o nenhu Portugues possa ir a Manilla nem a outro porto algu de fastellanos, nem elles virem a Macão nem a porto nenhu meu, E esta permissão adoutiveis que seja enquanto o Comercio do Japão estiver fechado comoque Se assegurará aquella Cidade e Seu comercio co Estado principal detoda a India. Escrita em a D. a 15 de Novr. de 626. E eu o Secret. Affonso de Barros Caminha aqui escrever—Ray
[Signature]
João III
[Marginalia — bottom left]
Japão
[Stamp — bottom center]
[ circular seal: ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL ]
[translation]
{{PAGE:1}}
into modern UK academic English, following all specified guidelines.
---
**--- TRANSLATION ---**
[Page]
1856
[Marginalia — top left]
Macau
6 September 1646
[Marginalia — top right]
1856
[Stamp — left margin, middle]
[Circular stamp: OVERSEAS HISTORICAL ARCHIVE]
[Main text]
...arrived [at] the council [with] a shipment of 30 [pieces of] China [gold?]... captured in the [ship] *pataxo* [a small, fast ship]... from China... already [they] have... bad treatment... another type of 37... that they wish to be made... their footprint... there are profits from [the] goods... that [they] stopped... which is... or... to my... pearl... From the day... some goods that [the] brother of Roque Valla... [UNCLEAR: best interpretation] ...I raise my... strong... which [they] will... Commerce of all the Christian [world]... between them... silver that the Portuguese... to that Port... and being... by [the] deposit of it... and [the] ships they will make in that same [port]... that [the] city... and admitted... to it... the friendship of the Chinese that began by... [the] Portuguese of Macau... of... principal... danger... that... in all the state of the [Portuguese] India... the hope... of the King of it... that... or... when... but... for... real... Castile... everything... principal... that there was a... in all... in the same... of that state... and in it they would be... against... of [the] decree... of the said *pataxo*... that went for that Commerce... by... Joseph R... found in it... of the star... and had less... which... interest... to 50 per 100... from which? still in a time near... much more... what was taken from Japan... was free that Commerce... that was... three... to that... which they took in Manila... from there... and... take... and... the Portuguese of Malacca... there... which was lacking... by the Division of it... of Castile... thus... the means by which the Portuguese carried silver to China... that... of it... there goes much... by it... in brief... as... under... taken... in this... and... of it... they serve... much... from which... to India... and... the Commerce of Japan was... and also that of Malacca, with this... the merchants of Malacca... and the principal Commerce... it seems... with... in the friendship of the Chinese, on which depends totally... the strengthening of that city... merchants... that... people... principal... danger... (this was the state) of the visit of Your Majesty and of the State of India... and can have that the obligation of necessity... in the... that they owe... with their vassals... the Portuguese... causes with which they will call... to Your Majesty with great valour and of deaths... and seek the *pataxo* of Manila... Commerce of new Spain... see that... they took from this Kingdom... is... the Commerce of Japan... and to respond... to prevent... such... and... that can happen in that city... with the... of the silver... and the Commerce of Japan... it seems to me that Your Majesty should be served to order to the Viceroy of India that, as... that the merchants of Malacca... trade... in Manila... in some... ports of the Kings... friends of that archipelago... that... was for such Commerce... that... nor in another port of the Castilians, nor... they come... nor any port of ours... and this... they... the Commerce of... closed... with which Your Majesty secures that city... the Commerce... the principal remedy... of India... and...
{{PAGE:2}}
**TRANSLATION**
[Stamp — centre left]
[Circular stamp: HISTORICAL ARCHIVE OF THE COLONIES / MINISTRY OF THE COLONIES]
[Main text]
...requests that Your Majesty permit a customs house in this Kingdom, for the benefit thereof, in accordance with the present [decree?] of the Prefect, who, by His Royal Faithfulness, [acted?] against the [unfortunate?] [abhorrence?] thereof, [so that?] [the aforementioned?] [might be?] [altered?] [the unfortunate?] [abhorrence?] thereof, [through?] [the aforementioned?] [letter?] from Your Royal [Highness?] in [the month of?] March, which [they?] [might?] [unfold?] [now?] [before?] [the aforementioned?] [nuptials?] [in order that?] [they?] [might?] [appear?] [thereof?] [in accordance with?] [the aforementioned?] [opinion?]
[Signature]
João da Silva
[Marginalia — right side, vertical]
[UNCLEAR: handwritten annotations in cursive script, partially overlapping the main text]
[Stamp — lower right]
[Circular stamp: (Illegible seal)]
[Page]
[ILLEGIBLE: approximately three characters at the top right corner]
---
**EDITORIAL NOTES:**
1. **Textual Condition:** The original Portuguese text is highly corrupt, containing numerous illegible or garbled passages. This translation represents the best scholarly reconstruction possible given the state of the manuscript. Where words are entirely conjectural, they are enclosed in square brackets with a question mark.
2. **Stamp (centre left):** "ARQUIVO HISTORICO DAS COLONIAS / M. DAS C." translates to "HISTORICAL ARCHIVE OF THE COLONIES / MINISTRY OF THE COLONIES." This is a standard institutional stamp from the Portuguese colonial administration.
3. **"aduano":** This is likely a scribal error or archaic spelling for *alfândega* (customs house). The translation adopts the modern equivalent.
4. **"Prefeito":** In a colonial context, this could refer to a local administrative or ecclesiastical official. The term is retained as "Prefect" in the translation, as its precise role requires further contextual research.
5. **"Sua real fidelidade":** A standard honorific for the Portuguese monarch, translated as "His Royal Faithfulness."
6. **"Espodio":** This word is unclear. It may be a corruption of *esposo* (bridegroom) or *espólio* (estate/spoils). The translation offers a conjectural reading based on context.
7. **"aborafao":** Likely a corruption of *aborrecimento* (abhorrence/loathing) or *aborração* (an archaic form). The translation uses "abhorrence" as the most plausible reading.
8. **"forrafeicur trette":** These words are illegible and appear to be a severe corruption of the original text. The translation offers a conjectural reconstruction based on the surrounding context.
9. **"felipe marz":** Likely a reference to the month of March, possibly with a personal name ("Felipe") attached, or a corruption of a date formula.
10. **"nuivos":** Likely a corruption of *núpcias* (nuptials/wedding). The translation adopts this reading.
11. **Marginalia:** The handwritten annotations on the right side are described as "UNCLEAR" and are not translatable due to their illegibility.
12. **Stamp (lower right):** The seal is described as "Illegible," and no translation is possible.
13. **Page Number:** The characters at the top right corner are illegible and cannot be translated.
This translation is intended for academic citation and research purposes, reflecting the scholarly challenges inherent in working with damaged historical manuscripts.
{{PAGE:3}}
**TRANSLATION**
[Page]
No. 3
[Marginalia — top left]
Copy
4-9-606
Resolution
As it appears. Lisbon, twenty-second of October, one thousand six hundred and forty-six // Breij //
[Marginalia — top right]
Sire
[Stamp — top centre]
[Circular stamp: HISTORICAL ARCHIVE OF THE COLONIES]
[Main text]
The principal trade and commerce of the Kingdom of China consists of silver; likewise, the Chinese scarcely admit any other sort of goods, for it is with silver that the precious drugs of those kingdoms are also paid for, along with gold, pearls, almiras [a type of fine silk or fabric], silks, brocades, and diamonds; but silks were [also exchanged] with pieces of copper; [and] many other precious commodities, in which the principal trade of the Orient consists. It was on account of the interest in this silver, which the Portuguese carried to that kingdom, that the city of Macau was established there, and the Portuguese were admitted into the friendship of the Chinese. Beginning with few people and few inhabitants, it became the most opulent and principal [settlement], and this city, which [now] holds considerable sway throughout the entire State of India, grew in the number of its inhabitants to such an extent that today there are nearly one thousand Portuguese there, almost all of them among the principal persons who travel in the Indies, some noblemen, and many veteran soldiers of the militia of that state, and in which [city] there are captains [holding authority] in time of war.
This silver was acquired for that trade by three means: first, from the coinage of this kingdom, when it entered [the market] in bullion and had lesser value, with which it was exchanged for Segamanias [a type of foodstuff or provisions].
[Signature]
provisions
{{PAGE:4}}
--- TRANSLATION ---
Firstly, the supply of silver [prata] from here to India, in the near future, as before. Secondly, that which was obtained from Japan, when that trade was free, which today is permitted only with restrictions. Thirdly, that which was acquired in the island of Macau [elllanilha], from which there now arises a new inquiry concerning the merchandise that the Portuguese of that place used to send to Siam [Seuavad], which today is lacking, owing to the division of this kingdom [of Portugal] from that of Castile [adefantella].
And considering these means, the Portuguese of that place [Macau] would have silver [prata] in abundance, as today, although from this kingdom very little silver is sent to them, and that in small quantities. Indeed, it would be much, given the high price at which it stands; but from its scarcity, it is understood that very little of it goes from here to India.
And the trade with Japan is now restored, as is also that of Macau, and with it the inhabitants of that place would regain the principal commerce, so that they might preserve the friendship of the Chinese, upon which depends entirely the preservation of that city and its inhabitants. For these people, being so wealthy, prosperous, and warlike, and being so far removed from Your Majesty and from the State of India, it may be feared that, compelled by necessity, they might rise up against the obedience they owe to Your Majesty as your vassals and loyal Portuguese. This is the cause with which they clamour to Your Majesty with great urgency and demonstration, seeking the silver of Macau and the new trade inquiries, seeing that nothing comes to them from this kingdom, nor is the trade with Japan opened.
{{PAGE:5}}
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Stamp — left margin]
[Circular stamp: COLONIAL ARCHIVE / 1763]
[Main text]
And in order to prevent and fortify against such a damaging harm, and so that the King of India, who might find himself in that city lacking silver to such an extent that the merchants of Japan do not open [trade]...
It appears to the Council that the King should be served by ordering a letter to be written to the King of India, stating that, as He permits, the inhabitants of the alliance may trade with Manila, in any of the King's ports, among the friends of that Archipelago, whichever is most convenient for such Commerce, which the King shall name; provided that no Portuguese may go to Manila, nor to any other port of the Castilians, nor may they come to the alliance, nor to any of its ports; and that this permission shall remain in force as long as the trade with Japan remains closed. As the King alleges that city, and the merchants, [are] the principal remedy of all India: In consideration of which the King permits [them] to remain in this Kingdom, for the benefit thereof, by having in the meantime the said [arrangement], which concurs, in the piety of the alliance, that He may alter [it], with the endorsement of what is here said freely alleged, I bring before this Council His letter of the said King Dom Philip, at the end of which it is stated that a copy of the chapter that treats this matter is sent, which, having been delivered to Goa to the fund of Alcivas, in which it says, "If this opinion [prevails]."
Salvador Correia de Sá, and Saad Delgado Figueira
[Signature]
To the Most Reverend, it appears that these inhabitants of Malacca should take measures so that they may, with tolerance, conduct trade.
{{PAGE:6}}
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page]
15
[Main text]
...to trade in Manila, I permit it with the declaration
that the merchant from Manila, a vassal of the King of Por-
tugal, may not come to these [realms], so that
that city may remain freer in its trade;
and this concession has been granted to the natives of this
Kingdom, so that they may go with their ships and slaves
to the Portuguese Indies and Buenos Aires; and the favours
that have been granted to them, beyond the purchasing of goods,
they may also undertake. Lisbon, the seventh of September, one thousand
one hundred and forty-six [i.e. 1546] )) Oellarques )) Jorge
de Fartilho )) Jorge de Albuquerque )) João
Delgado )) Salvador Correia de Sá. ))
[Signature]
João Miguez Pacheco
{{PAGE:7}}
**TRANSLATION**
[Page]
No. 54
[Marginalia — top left]
Copy
646
15-XI-
[Marginalia — top right]
HESA1
[Main text]
I, the King of India, etc. I am informed that the principal commerce of China consists solely of silver, without which that nation scarcely admits any other kind of goods, consuming with it the precious commodities of that kingdom, which include much gold, copper, musk, pearls, rubies, diamonds, many raw silks, corruptions [i.e., inferior or mixed silks], and other merchandise of great value, in which the principal commerce of the entire Orient consists. And because very little silver now goes from this kingdom, both by reason of its scarcity and of the elevated price to which it has risen on account of that scarcity, it is understood that little can be sent from here to India, since the commerce of Japan and Manila is closed. Consequently, the inhabitants of the city of Macau are deprived of their principal trade, by which they might sustain themselves, given the multitude of Chinese [traders] upon whom the said commerce of that city depends. These inhabitants, being a wealthy and warlike people, are distant from my Royal Sovereignty and from this State; it may be feared that, compelled by necessity, they might fail in the obedience they owe me. And considering the particular disorders [that might arise], I further order you, as I do by another [decree], that in order to avert the said harm, so prejudicial and dreadful for all of India, you should, as is your duty, permit the inhabitants of the said city of Macau to trade with those of Manila in any port of the friendly kings of that archipelago which is most convenient for such commerce. You shall designate this port, provided that no Portuguese may go to Manila, nor to any other port of the Castilians, nor may they [the Castilians] come to Macau or to any port of mine. And this permission you shall adopt only for as long as the commerce of Japan remains closed, by which means that city and its trade with the principal State of all India shall be secured. Written at [place] on the 15th of November, 1626. And I, the Secretary, Affonso de Barros Caminha, wrote it here—Rey
[Signature]
João III
[Marginalia — bottom left]
Japan
[Stamp — bottom center]
[circular seal: ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL] |
| fulltext_transcription | {{PAGE:1}}
[Page]
1856
[Marginalia — top left]
Macau
6.9.1646
[Marginalia — top right]
1856
[Stamp — left margin, middle]
[ circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO ULTRAMARINO ]
[Main text]
aprispall conçio Emu fam pid 30 Puros da China Cohite na preata fim a soal
dChina ja ao mi tem mal trela a outra forte de 37 qrem que fad oem sa pegada
aj pree frotoz dengy doj que lly Paro/ que hema ou ro ambe al my lee perella/ Do
Com dia ma tealgens q fremao de roque valla m? / jdo/ Ceno a Impella
mde la cua e outrom/ [UNCLEAR: best interpretation] Soj au ta o my torque forhte qvippel Comerio de
tode o Xn Limte Elar omtreli della prata que os portugese ptuaray aquelle
Puro & for intio dusimdo por Depo della cd embaqueta farao in elle mefao
aquella fiade e adimitida apsara elle fra amitade dos Chins que Comefado por
pavafos de poulog macg doe che de ama pripat ema / Priquo fidale g ving
tem entodo octado da imera fiepo de Infanti na mira & Amora do ey della
que auvee ou no qvam quinde pero deml por reelle/ Caft todo/ qonte depri
pal que houma um tra fedal goj em toldotagica no melha do quelle stato
egue nella foravam de fajutari contra Caroy degoria
dta preata fead que via para aquelle Comerio por Requia mant Joffe R foundo nelle
enterea dela stella e tinha meno qualor torque fe interetaca ele gona fa a 50 por 100
da qui? ainda uno tempo proximo m? mai arz o que se tirava do japao foudo
estava livres aquelle Comerio que oi premi trea duy oe leia 3 aqueli Peg gatauo
em manilla da 9 the vai elaroua e panha Somer lanfia y Oportage de malav
alli lucocai -que oi falta po la Divifao delle R° a de Castella
sim do so ettej o meioj por onde os portugelle llevauan prata afina nemog oiz
que della R° the vai m? porla afim im brefao denno como solo
fado preffo enqweffa e lm befai delle febtrwe fan m? porlo da qem p a india egue
o Comerio do japao eta fe Pade e tambem o da malitta, com iffo etai o mocados
re de malav fattor e o principal Comerio parecfeu devee com furuan na amitade do
Chinaj de que depende total m? te aforjurcao da quella fida efey mocado rez
que loms gente tau Priquo favra he bellis (Ota etau a fato) da viita de Vmg he
do estado da india /epode ter que o brigador de nelitidade fe altorem na
o beli enfia que deuem aving com seu uafa ho ellesij portugelles Cauas com
que a llamarai a vmg com gra de valor ede mortes fas e buique a preata de ma
millo Comerio de nouo e spanha veed que amai tom llenau uas deste R° ne
he abee o Comerio de ia pad
epfa afodir podiv preuenir catalhar hu dicho tau preuerifiall e intiperancull
que pode ca fotedir na que lla fide de Com afata da prata brifaffo & o Comerio do
Japao finav abea me pareffe que cleue Vmg fer firuido madan ao Vd da india
que Como deffi premi ta que os mocadores de malav potho Comerhian (Do je ma
nilla em foalfqun do pottoj dos Reijs noto amigos da quelle archipelago q mai a
Commdach foi para o tal Comer fio tem que mentu sfortu ge fpota hivama nilla nem
aoutro porto de nhii dor Castelhanos ne elle virum amafas ne aport renhun nofo
eq ello primi fan fein falbanto o Comerio do coçab eftrur felhado Com oque afegues
Vmg de aque lla fide o Comerio o hemedio presipal ele to da aindia e Imfontidivee
{{PAGE:2}}
[Stamp — center left]
[ circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTORICO DAS COLONIAS / M. DAS C. ]
[Main text]
faz que vmg permita aduano neste Reino porça em utilidade delle onas
acundo de prento o Prefeito que fom Sua real fidelidade de mal ao Espodio altevar
o infeliz aborafao delle forrafeicur trette Chua carta d VR em felipe marz que
desfi llar esfrexus agor avofond de nuivos jenque mppa los delle parecer
[Signature]
João da Silva
[Marginalia — right side, vertical]
[UNCLEAR: handwritten annotations in cursive, partially overlapping main text]
[Stamp — lower right]
[ circular stamp: (Selo ilegível) ]
[Page]
[ILLEGIBLE: ~3 chars at top right corner]
{{PAGE:3}}
[Page]
N.º 3°
[Marginalia — top left]
Cópia
4-9-606
Resolução
Como parece. Lisboa vinte e dous de Outubro de mil seiscentos quarenta, e seis // Breij //
[Marginalia — top right]
Senhor
[Stamp — top center]
[Circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO DAS COLÓNIAIS]
[Main text]
O principal Comercio, e mercancia do Reino da China contém prata, tem igual os Chinas admitem mal toda a outra sorte de fazendas, que com ella também se paga as preciosas drogas daquelles Reinos, que se manda ouro, pérolas, Almiras, Sedas, Brobin, Diamantes; mas sedas, eram, com peças de cobre; outras muitas preciosas mercadorias, em que contém o principal Comercio do Oriente. Que o interesse desta prata, que os Portugueses levavão áquelle Reino, se foi introduzido por causa della, e de outras mercancias, em Macão aquella cidade, e admitido os Portugueses na amizade dos Chinas, que começando por pouca gente de poucos moradores, se fez a mais opulenta, e principal, e mais esta cidade, que vota ligeireza tem em todo o estado da India, crescendo em tanto numero os moradores, que haverá hoje nella perto de mil Portugueses, quasi toda gente da principal, que anda nas Indias, alguns Fidalgos, e muitos soldados velhos na milícia daquele estado, e que nella senhora de capitanes, contra largo de guerra.
Esta prata, se adquiria para aquelle Comercio por tres vias: a primeira, da moeda deste Reino, quando nela entrava de fantella, e tinha menos valor, com que se intercambiava Segamanias alimento.
[Signature]
alimento
{{PAGE:4}}
alimcoenta postento, daque para a India,
em tempos proximo, no mais. et segundo,
aque se tirava do Japam, quando estava livre
aquelle Comercio, que hoje permitirad. oestaça.
Terceira, aque se dengetavam em ellanilha, deque
lhe vai denova Perguntas das mercantias, que
os Portugueses deellaias adi Seuavad., que hoje
falta, pella divizad deste Reino adefantella.
E lendo estes ormeios posindo os Portugueses
Seuavad. prata alina, como hoje, que deste
Reino lhe vai mundo pouco, alim, em larad.
Denad. Ser munta, como pello levantado preço,
em que esta; em larad. delle se intenderar
mundo pouo nella degui para a India);
E que o commercio do Japam esta tornado, e:
tambem daellanilha, e com illo entad or Mora-
dor deellaias fato do principal Comercio,
para se poderem conservar na amizade dos
Chinas, deque depende, totalmt - a conservad
daquella fidade, e seus Moradores, que como gente
tad Vica, farta, ebelicosa, etad. afartados davinta
dev. ellogd°., edo estado da Indias, le pode temer,
que obrigado danecessitade, se alterem nas
obediencias, que devem av. ellogd°.; como seus
vallallos, e leaes Portugueses, cauza, conque
a clamorad. av. ellogd°. com grande calor, e de-
monstrad, e burquem aprata deellanilha, e lo
mercio denova Perguntas, vendo que lhe ned
vai denovo Reino, nem se abre o Comercio do Japad.
E para
{{PAGE:5}}
[Stamp — left margin]
[ circular stamp: ARQUIVO COLONIAL / 1763 ]
[Main text]
E para se poder prevenir, castellar hum damno tão prejudicial, e pera que el rey da India, que poderá suceder em aquella cidade, com falta de prata, em tanto, que os mercadores do Japão se não abra.
Parece ao conselho, que deve o rey ser servido mandar escrever ao Rey da India, que como deli permitte, que os moradores de allião possão comerciar, com as Manilhas, em qualquer dos portos do Rey, nos amigos daquelle Archipelago, que mais acomodado for para o tal Comercio, que escreve Rey nomeará; tem que nenhum Portugues possa ir as Manilhas, nem outro porto nenhum dos Castelhanos, nem elles virem a allião, nem aporto nenhum dello; e que esta permissão seja emquanto os commercios do Japão estiver fechado: Como que allega o rey aquella cidade, e os mercadores, Remedio principal de toda a India: Em consideração de que o rey permite aturar neste Reino, por ter sim, em utilidade delle, em d. lavendo depremeio o dito, que concorre, na piedade de allião dele poder alterar, com abonação do que aqui se diz avolla allegentado, levo neste conselho sua carta do dize: Rey Dom Felippe ellas fins, degue comenta contaba se envia a copia do capitulo, que trata desta materia, que de leitao, entregues a Goa ao fonde de Alcivas, em que diz, Se deste parecer.
Salvador Correa de Sá, e Saad. Delgado Figueira
[Signature]
al reverendissimo, que lhe parece, que estes moradores de Malaca, levem moios para poderem com logarancia tratar
{{PAGE:6}}
[Page]
15
[Main text]
tractar em Manilha, lhe permitto com declara-
ção, que o de Manilha, vassallo del Rey de Por-
tugal não poderá vir a elleis, porque assim
fique aquella cidade mais livre em seu tracto;
e isto tem o dito concedido aos naturaes deste
Reyno, para irem com seus navios, e Escravos,
a Indias de Portugal, e Buenos aires; e os favos
que lhe lhes conceder, que mais de comprar fazendas,
o podem fazer. Lisboa sete de Setembro de mil
cento quarenta, e seis )) Oellarques )) Jorge
de Fartilho )) Jorge de Albuquerque )) João
Delgado )) Salvador Correa de Sá. ))
[Signature]
João Miguez Pacheco
{{PAGE:7}}
[Page]
N.54
[Marginalia — top left]
Copia
646
15-XI-
[Marginalia — top right]
HESA1
[Main text]
V. Rey da India &c. Sou informado que o principal Comercio da China consiste somente na prata, Sem aqual esta Nação admite mal todo outro genero de fazendas, Degastando-se com ella as prezas drogas daquelle Reyno que se Anuito Ouro, aombe, almiscar, perolas, Rubins, Diamantes muitas Sedas Cruas corrupceas e Outras Mercadorias de muito preço em que Consiste o principal Comercio detodo o Oriente. E por que do Reyno vai hoje muito pouca prata, a Sy com razão da falta della como de Levantado preco a que tem Subido por Cauza daquella, Se entendea pouco, embedivar daqui para a India estar Esse Serrado o Comercio do Japão e Manilla, comque os moradores da Cidade de Macão estão faltos do principal Comercio para Sepodem Comer var namirade dos hinas, de que depende o tal Comercio daquella Cidade, que como gente Rica, e belicosa, estão afastados da minha Soberania Real e deste Estado, Sepodem temer que obrigados da necessidade e Scaltarem na obediencia que me devem, e considerando Eu os particulares Desordos. Alem anço ordenar vos como por outro faco, que para Sepoder atallar a dito damno tão prejudicial e Esparavel atoda a India, que como deveis, permitam a que os moradores da dita fidade de Macão possão Comerciar Como os de Manilla em qualquer do Porto dos Reys amigos daquelle Archeipilago, que mais a Comodado for, para stal Comercio o qual vos nomeareis Sem o nenhu Portugues possa ir a Manilla nem a outro porto algu de fastellanos, nem elles virem a Macão nem a porto nenhu meu, E esta permissão adoutiveis que seja enquanto o Comercio do Japão estiver fechado comoque Se assegurará aquella Cidade e Seu comercio co Estado principal detoda a India. Escrita em a D. a 15 de Novr. de 626. E eu o Secret. Affonso de Barros Caminha aqui escrever—Ray
[Signature]
João III
[Marginalia — bottom left]
Japão
[Stamp — bottom center]
[ circular seal: ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL ] |
| fulltext_translation | {{PAGE:1}}
into modern UK academic English, following all specified guidelines.
---
**--- TRANSLATION ---**
[Page]
1856
[Marginalia — top left]
Macau
6 September 1646
[Marginalia — top right]
1856
[Stamp — left margin, middle]
[Circular stamp: OVERSEAS HISTORICAL ARCHIVE]
[Main text]
...arrived [at] the council [with] a shipment of 30 [pieces of] China [gold?]... captured in the [ship] *pataxo* [a small, fast ship]... from China... already [they] have... bad treatment... another type of 37... that they wish to be made... their footprint... there are profits from [the] goods... that [they] stopped... which is... or... to my... pearl... From the day... some goods that [the] brother of Roque Valla... [UNCLEAR: best interpretation] ...I raise my... strong... which [they] will... Commerce of all the Christian [world]... between them... silver that the Portuguese... to that Port... and being... by [the] deposit of it... and [the] ships they will make in that same [port]... that [the] city... and admitted... to it... the friendship of the Chinese that began by... [the] Portuguese of Macau... of... principal... danger... that... in all the state of the [Portuguese] India... the hope... of the King of it... that... or... when... but... for... real... Castile... everything... principal... that there was a... in all... in the same... of that state... and in it they would be... against... of [the] decree... of the said *pataxo*... that went for that Commerce... by... Joseph R... found in it... of the star... and had less... which... interest... to 50 per 100... from which? still in a time near... much more... what was taken from Japan... was free that Commerce... that was... three... to that... which they took in Manila... from there... and... take... and... the Portuguese of Malacca... there... which was lacking... by the Division of it... of Castile... thus... the means by which the Portuguese carried silver to China... that... of it... there goes much... by it... in brief... as... under... taken... in this... and... of it... they serve... much... from which... to India... and... the Commerce of Japan was... and also that of Malacca, with this... the merchants of Malacca... and the principal Commerce... it seems... with... in the friendship of the Chinese, on which depends totally... the strengthening of that city... merchants... that... people... principal... danger... (this was the state) of the visit of Your Majesty and of the State of India... and can have that the obligation of necessity... in the... that they owe... with their vassals... the Portuguese... causes with which they will call... to Your Majesty with great valour and of deaths... and seek the *pataxo* of Manila... Commerce of new Spain... see that... they took from this Kingdom... is... the Commerce of Japan... and to respond... to prevent... such... and... that can happen in that city... with the... of the silver... and the Commerce of Japan... it seems to me that Your Majesty should be served to order to the Viceroy of India that, as... that the merchants of Malacca... trade... in Manila... in some... ports of the Kings... friends of that archipelago... that... was for such Commerce... that... nor in another port of the Castilians, nor... they come... nor any port of ours... and this... they... the Commerce of... closed... with which Your Majesty secures that city... the Commerce... the principal remedy... of India... and...
{{PAGE:2}}
**TRANSLATION**
[Stamp — centre left]
[Circular stamp: HISTORICAL ARCHIVE OF THE COLONIES / MINISTRY OF THE COLONIES]
[Main text]
...requests that Your Majesty permit a customs house in this Kingdom, for the benefit thereof, in accordance with the present [decree?] of the Prefect, who, by His Royal Faithfulness, [acted?] against the [unfortunate?] [abhorrence?] thereof, [so that?] [the aforementioned?] [might be?] [altered?] [the unfortunate?] [abhorrence?] thereof, [through?] [the aforementioned?] [letter?] from Your Royal [Highness?] in [the month of?] March, which [they?] [might?] [unfold?] [now?] [before?] [the aforementioned?] [nuptials?] [in order that?] [they?] [might?] [appear?] [thereof?] [in accordance with?] [the aforementioned?] [opinion?]
[Signature]
João da Silva
[Marginalia — right side, vertical]
[UNCLEAR: handwritten annotations in cursive script, partially overlapping the main text]
[Stamp — lower right]
[Circular stamp: (Illegible seal)]
[Page]
[ILLEGIBLE: approximately three characters at the top right corner]
---
**EDITORIAL NOTES:**
1. **Textual Condition:** The original Portuguese text is highly corrupt, containing numerous illegible or garbled passages. This translation represents the best scholarly reconstruction possible given the state of the manuscript. Where words are entirely conjectural, they are enclosed in square brackets with a question mark.
2. **Stamp (centre left):** "ARQUIVO HISTORICO DAS COLONIAS / M. DAS C." translates to "HISTORICAL ARCHIVE OF THE COLONIES / MINISTRY OF THE COLONIES." This is a standard institutional stamp from the Portuguese colonial administration.
3. **"aduano":** This is likely a scribal error or archaic spelling for *alfândega* (customs house). The translation adopts the modern equivalent.
4. **"Prefeito":** In a colonial context, this could refer to a local administrative or ecclesiastical official. The term is retained as "Prefect" in the translation, as its precise role requires further contextual research.
5. **"Sua real fidelidade":** A standard honorific for the Portuguese monarch, translated as "His Royal Faithfulness."
6. **"Espodio":** This word is unclear. It may be a corruption of *esposo* (bridegroom) or *espólio* (estate/spoils). The translation offers a conjectural reading based on context.
7. **"aborafao":** Likely a corruption of *aborrecimento* (abhorrence/loathing) or *aborração* (an archaic form). The translation uses "abhorrence" as the most plausible reading.
8. **"forrafeicur trette":** These words are illegible and appear to be a severe corruption of the original text. The translation offers a conjectural reconstruction based on the surrounding context.
9. **"felipe marz":** Likely a reference to the month of March, possibly with a personal name ("Felipe") attached, or a corruption of a date formula.
10. **"nuivos":** Likely a corruption of *núpcias* (nuptials/wedding). The translation adopts this reading.
11. **Marginalia:** The handwritten annotations on the right side are described as "UNCLEAR" and are not translatable due to their illegibility.
12. **Stamp (lower right):** The seal is described as "Illegible," and no translation is possible.
13. **Page Number:** The characters at the top right corner are illegible and cannot be translated.
This translation is intended for academic citation and research purposes, reflecting the scholarly challenges inherent in working with damaged historical manuscripts.
{{PAGE:3}}
**TRANSLATION**
[Page]
No. 3
[Marginalia — top left]
Copy
4-9-606
Resolution
As it appears. Lisbon, twenty-second of October, one thousand six hundred and forty-six // Breij //
[Marginalia — top right]
Sire
[Stamp — top centre]
[Circular stamp: HISTORICAL ARCHIVE OF THE COLONIES]
[Main text]
The principal trade and commerce of the Kingdom of China consists of silver; likewise, the Chinese scarcely admit any other sort of goods, for it is with silver that the precious drugs of those kingdoms are also paid for, along with gold, pearls, almiras [a type of fine silk or fabric], silks, brocades, and diamonds; but silks were [also exchanged] with pieces of copper; [and] many other precious commodities, in which the principal trade of the Orient consists. It was on account of the interest in this silver, which the Portuguese carried to that kingdom, that the city of Macau was established there, and the Portuguese were admitted into the friendship of the Chinese. Beginning with few people and few inhabitants, it became the most opulent and principal [settlement], and this city, which [now] holds considerable sway throughout the entire State of India, grew in the number of its inhabitants to such an extent that today there are nearly one thousand Portuguese there, almost all of them among the principal persons who travel in the Indies, some noblemen, and many veteran soldiers of the militia of that state, and in which [city] there are captains [holding authority] in time of war.
This silver was acquired for that trade by three means: first, from the coinage of this kingdom, when it entered [the market] in bullion and had lesser value, with which it was exchanged for Segamanias [a type of foodstuff or provisions].
[Signature]
provisions
{{PAGE:4}}
--- TRANSLATION ---
Firstly, the supply of silver [prata] from here to India, in the near future, as before. Secondly, that which was obtained from Japan, when that trade was free, which today is permitted only with restrictions. Thirdly, that which was acquired in the island of Macau [elllanilha], from which there now arises a new inquiry concerning the merchandise that the Portuguese of that place used to send to Siam [Seuavad], which today is lacking, owing to the division of this kingdom [of Portugal] from that of Castile [adefantella].
And considering these means, the Portuguese of that place [Macau] would have silver [prata] in abundance, as today, although from this kingdom very little silver is sent to them, and that in small quantities. Indeed, it would be much, given the high price at which it stands; but from its scarcity, it is understood that very little of it goes from here to India.
And the trade with Japan is now restored, as is also that of Macau, and with it the inhabitants of that place would regain the principal commerce, so that they might preserve the friendship of the Chinese, upon which depends entirely the preservation of that city and its inhabitants. For these people, being so wealthy, prosperous, and warlike, and being so far removed from Your Majesty and from the State of India, it may be feared that, compelled by necessity, they might rise up against the obedience they owe to Your Majesty as your vassals and loyal Portuguese. This is the cause with which they clamour to Your Majesty with great urgency and demonstration, seeking the silver of Macau and the new trade inquiries, seeing that nothing comes to them from this kingdom, nor is the trade with Japan opened.
{{PAGE:5}}
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Stamp — left margin]
[Circular stamp: COLONIAL ARCHIVE / 1763]
[Main text]
And in order to prevent and fortify against such a damaging harm, and so that the King of India, who might find himself in that city lacking silver to such an extent that the merchants of Japan do not open [trade]...
It appears to the Council that the King should be served by ordering a letter to be written to the King of India, stating that, as He permits, the inhabitants of the alliance may trade with Manila, in any of the King's ports, among the friends of that Archipelago, whichever is most convenient for such Commerce, which the King shall name; provided that no Portuguese may go to Manila, nor to any other port of the Castilians, nor may they come to the alliance, nor to any of its ports; and that this permission shall remain in force as long as the trade with Japan remains closed. As the King alleges that city, and the merchants, [are] the principal remedy of all India: In consideration of which the King permits [them] to remain in this Kingdom, for the benefit thereof, by having in the meantime the said [arrangement], which concurs, in the piety of the alliance, that He may alter [it], with the endorsement of what is here said freely alleged, I bring before this Council His letter of the said King Dom Philip, at the end of which it is stated that a copy of the chapter that treats this matter is sent, which, having been delivered to Goa to the fund of Alcivas, in which it says, "If this opinion [prevails]."
Salvador Correia de Sá, and Saad Delgado Figueira
[Signature]
To the Most Reverend, it appears that these inhabitants of Malacca should take measures so that they may, with tolerance, conduct trade.
{{PAGE:6}}
--- TRANSLATION ---
[Page]
15
[Main text]
...to trade in Manila, I permit it with the declaration
that the merchant from Manila, a vassal of the King of Por-
tugal, may not come to these [realms], so that
that city may remain freer in its trade;
and this concession has been granted to the natives of this
Kingdom, so that they may go with their ships and slaves
to the Portuguese Indies and Buenos Aires; and the favours
that have been granted to them, beyond the purchasing of goods,
they may also undertake. Lisbon, the seventh of September, one thousand
one hundred and forty-six [i.e. 1546] )) Oellarques )) Jorge
de Fartilho )) Jorge de Albuquerque )) João
Delgado )) Salvador Correia de Sá. ))
[Signature]
João Miguez Pacheco
{{PAGE:7}}
**TRANSLATION**
[Page]
No. 54
[Marginalia — top left]
Copy
646
15-XI-
[Marginalia — top right]
HESA1
[Main text]
I, the King of India, etc. I am informed that the principal commerce of China consists solely of silver, without which that nation scarcely admits any other kind of goods, consuming with it the precious commodities of that kingdom, which include much gold, copper, musk, pearls, rubies, diamonds, many raw silks, corruptions [i.e., inferior or mixed silks], and other merchandise of great value, in which the principal commerce of the entire Orient consists. And because very little silver now goes from this kingdom, both by reason of its scarcity and of the elevated price to which it has risen on account of that scarcity, it is understood that little can be sent from here to India, since the commerce of Japan and Manila is closed. Consequently, the inhabitants of the city of Macau are deprived of their principal trade, by which they might sustain themselves, given the multitude of Chinese [traders] upon whom the said commerce of that city depends. These inhabitants, being a wealthy and warlike people, are distant from my Royal Sovereignty and from this State; it may be feared that, compelled by necessity, they might fail in the obedience they owe me. And considering the particular disorders [that might arise], I further order you, as I do by another [decree], that in order to avert the said harm, so prejudicial and dreadful for all of India, you should, as is your duty, permit the inhabitants of the said city of Macau to trade with those of Manila in any port of the friendly kings of that archipelago which is most convenient for such commerce. You shall designate this port, provided that no Portuguese may go to Manila, nor to any other port of the Castilians, nor may they [the Castilians] come to Macau or to any port of mine. And this permission you shall adopt only for as long as the commerce of Japan remains closed, by which means that city and its trade with the principal State of all India shall be secured. Written at [place] on the 15th of November, 1626. And I, the Secretary, Affonso de Barros Caminha, wrote it here—Rey
[Signature]
João III
[Marginalia — bottom left]
Japan
[Stamp — bottom center]
[circular seal: ARQUIVO HISTORICO COLONIAL] |
| genre | Manuscripts |
| genre_facet | Manuscripts |
| hierarchy_browse | Cx. 01{{{_ID_}}}zotero-coll-8AN6STDU Transcriptions{{{_ID_}}}zotero-coll-PAAL2UHW |
| hierarchy_parent_id | zotero-coll-8AN6STDU zotero-coll-PAAL2UHW |
| hierarchy_parent_title | Cx. 01 Transcriptions |
| hierarchy_sequence | 0000 0000 |
| hierarchy_top_id | zotero-coll-WX87PJHD zotero-coll-WX87PJHD |
| hierarchy_top_title | News News |
| hierarchytype | Default |
| id | zotero-SED58JB4 |
| institution | zotero_group |
| last_indexed | 2026-09-24T07:28:05Z |
| latest_content_date | 2026-09-24T07:28:05Z |
| publishDate | 1646-09-07 |
| publishDateRange | 1646 |
| publishDateSort | 1646 |
| record_format | zotero |
| spelling | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão This document is a translation of a highly corrupt seventeenth-century Portuguese manuscript from the Overseas Historical Archive, dated 1856 but concerning events and correspondence from 1626 to 1646. It comprises a series of fragmented reports, royal decrees, and council opinions regarding the economic and political state of Macau and Portuguese trade in Asia. The central subject is the critical importance of silver to the China trade, upon which the prosperity and survival of Macau depended. The text details the three primary sources of silver for this commerce: from the Portuguese kingdom, from Japan (a trade then restricted), and from Manila. It reveals deep anxieties within the Portuguese colonial administration that the closure of the Japan trade and the scarcity of silver from Europe, compounded by the political division between Portugal and Castile, threatened Macau’s viability. The documents explicitly warn that the city’s wealthy and warlike inhabitants, driven by economic necessity, might rebel against the Crown. Proposed remedies include permitting Macau’s merchants to trade with Manila in designated ports of friendly kingdoms, but only as a temporary measure until the Japan trade could be reopened. Key figures mentioned include Salvador Correia de Sá and King João III, with the text reflecting the strategic and commercial challenges facing the Portuguese Estado da Índia in the mid-seventeenth century. Obs.: Resolução favorável do rei Anexo: 1646-11-15 - Provisão (cópia) de [D. João IV], rei de Portugal, para o vice-rei do Estado da Índia, [D. Filipe de Mascarenhas], em que deu ordem para Macau poder comerciar com Manila, enquanto se encontra fechado o comércio com o Japão. Manuscripts Portugal. Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino PT/AHU/CU/062/0001/00056 1646-09-07 China Trade Silver Conselho Ultramarino D. João V Estado da Índia Japan Trade Restrictions Macau Commerce Macau Economic Viability Macau Rebellion Threat Macau Silver Trade Manila Trade Route Overseas Historical Archive Goa Portuguese Colonial Administration Portuguese-Castile Division Salvador Corrêa de Sá {{PAGE:1}} [Page] 1856 [Marginalia — top left] Macau 6.9.1646 [Marginalia — top right] 1856 [Stamp — left margin, middle] [ circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO ULTRAMARINO ] [Main text] aprispall conçio Emu fam pid 30 Puros da China Cohite na preata fim a soal dChina ja ao mi tem mal trela a outra forte de 37 qrem que fad oem sa pegada aj pree frotoz dengy doj que lly Paro/ que hema ou ro ambe al my lee perella/ Do Com dia ma tealgens q fremao de roque valla m? / jdo/ Ceno a Impella mde la cua e outrom/ [UNCLEAR: best interpretation] Soj au ta o my torque forhte qvippel Comerio de tode o Xn Limte Elar omtreli della prata que os portugese ptuaray aquelle Puro & for intio dusimdo por Depo della cd embaqueta farao in elle mefao aquella fiade e adimitida apsara elle fra amitade dos Chins que Comefado por pavafos de poulog macg doe che de ama pripat ema / Priquo fidale g ving tem entodo octado da imera fiepo de Infanti na mira & Amora do ey della que auvee ou no qvam quinde pero deml por reelle/ Caft todo/ qonte depri pal que houma um tra fedal goj em toldotagica no melha do quelle stato egue nella foravam de fajutari contra Caroy degoria dta preata fead que via para aquelle Comerio por Requia mant Joffe R foundo nelle enterea dela stella e tinha meno qualor torque fe interetaca ele gona fa a 50 por 100 da qui? ainda uno tempo proximo m? mai arz o que se tirava do japao foudo estava livres aquelle Comerio que oi premi trea duy oe leia 3 aqueli Peg gatauo em manilla da 9 the vai elaroua e panha Somer lanfia y Oportage de malav alli lucocai -que oi falta po la Divifao delle R° a de Castella sim do so ettej o meioj por onde os portugelle llevauan prata afina nemog oiz que della R° the vai m? porla afim im brefao denno como solo fado preffo enqweffa e lm befai delle febtrwe fan m? porlo da qem p a india egue o Comerio do japao eta fe Pade e tambem o da malitta, com iffo etai o mocados re de malav fattor e o principal Comerio parecfeu devee com furuan na amitade do Chinaj de que depende total m? te aforjurcao da quella fida efey mocado rez que loms gente tau Priquo favra he bellis (Ota etau a fato) da viita de Vmg he do estado da india /epode ter que o brigador de nelitidade fe altorem na o beli enfia que deuem aving com seu uafa ho ellesij portugelles Cauas com que a llamarai a vmg com gra de valor ede mortes fas e buique a preata de ma millo Comerio de nouo e spanha veed que amai tom llenau uas deste R° ne he abee o Comerio de ia pad epfa afodir podiv preuenir catalhar hu dicho tau preuerifiall e intiperancull que pode ca fotedir na que lla fide de Com afata da prata brifaffo & o Comerio do Japao finav abea me pareffe que cleue Vmg fer firuido madan ao Vd da india que Como deffi premi ta que os mocadores de malav potho Comerhian (Do je ma nilla em foalfqun do pottoj dos Reijs noto amigos da quelle archipelago q mai a Commdach foi para o tal Comer fio tem que mentu sfortu ge fpota hivama nilla nem aoutro porto de nhii dor Castelhanos ne elle virum amafas ne aport renhun nofo eq ello primi fan fein falbanto o Comerio do coçab eftrur felhado Com oque afegues Vmg de aque lla fide o Comerio o hemedio presipal ele to da aindia e Imfontidivee {{PAGE:2}} [Stamp — center left] [ circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTORICO DAS COLONIAS / M. DAS C. ] [Main text] faz que vmg permita aduano neste Reino porça em utilidade delle onas acundo de prento o Prefeito que fom Sua real fidelidade de mal ao Espodio altevar o infeliz aborafao delle forrafeicur trette Chua carta d VR em felipe marz que desfi llar esfrexus agor avofond de nuivos jenque mppa los delle parecer [Signature] João da Silva [Marginalia — right side, vertical] [UNCLEAR: handwritten annotations in cursive, partially overlapping main text] [Stamp — lower right] [ circular stamp: (Selo ilegível) ] [Page] [ILLEGIBLE: ~3 chars at top right corner] {{PAGE:3}} [Page] N.º 3° [Marginalia — top left] Cópia 4-9-606 Resolução Como parece. Lisboa vinte e dous de Outubro de mil seiscentos quarenta, e seis // Breij // [Marginalia — top right] Senhor [Stamp — top center] [Circular stamp: ARQUIVO HISTÓRICO DAS COLÓNIAIS] [Main text] O principal Comercio, e mercancia do Reino da China contém prata, tem igual os Chinas admitem mal toda a outra sorte de fazendas, que com ella também se paga as preciosas drogas daquelles Reinos, que se manda ouro, pérolas, Almiras, Sedas, Brobin, Diamantes; mas sedas, eram, com peças de cobre; outras muitas preciosas mercadorias, em que contém o principal Comercio do Oriente. Que o interesse desta prata, que os Portugueses levavão áquelle Reino, se foi introduzido por causa della, e de outras mercancias, em Macão aquella cidade, e admitido os Portugueses na amizade dos Chinas, que começando por pouca gente de poucos moradores, se fez a mais opulenta, e principal, e mais esta cidade, que vota ligeireza tem em todo o estado da India, crescendo em tanto numero os moradores, que haverá hoje nella perto de mil Portugueses, quasi toda gente da principal, q |
| spellingShingle | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão China Trade Silver Conselho Ultramarino D. João V Estado da Índia Japan Trade Restrictions Macau Commerce Macau Economic Viability Macau Rebellion Threat Macau Silver Trade Manila Trade Route Overseas Historical Archive Goa Portuguese Colonial Administration Portuguese-Castile Division Salvador Corrêa de Sá |
| title | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão |
| title_autocomplete | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão |
| title_full | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão |
| title_fullStr | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão |
| title_full_unstemmed | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão |
| title_short | Consulta (cópia) do Conselho Ultramarino a D. João IV, rei de Portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de Macau com Manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o Japão |
| title_sort | consulta (cópia) do conselho ultramarino a d. joão iv, rei de portugal sobre a autorização do comércio de macau com manila, enquanto estiver fechado o comércio com o japão |
| topic | China Trade Silver Conselho Ultramarino D. João V Estado da Índia Japan Trade Restrictions Macau Commerce Macau Economic Viability Macau Rebellion Threat Macau Silver Trade Manila Trade Route Overseas Historical Archive Goa Portuguese Colonial Administration Portuguese-Castile Division Salvador Corrêa de Sá |
| topic_autocomplete | China Trade Silver Conselho Ultramarino D. João V Estado da Índia Japan Trade Restrictions Macau Commerce Macau Economic Viability Macau Rebellion Threat Macau Silver Trade Manila Trade Route Overseas Historical Archive Goa Portuguese Colonial Administration Portuguese-Castile Division Salvador Corrêa de Sá |
| topic_facet | China Trade Silver Conselho Ultramarino D. João V Estado da Índia Japan Trade Restrictions Macau Commerce Macau Economic Viability Macau Rebellion Threat Macau Silver Trade Manila Trade Route Overseas Historical Archive Goa Portuguese Colonial Administration Portuguese-Castile Division Salvador Corrêa de Sá |
| url | https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/SED58JB4/viewer_SED58JB4.html |
| zotero_collection_key | 8AN6STDU PAAL2UHW |