T H I R D

V O Y A G E

undertaken for the

ENGLISH COMPANY

to the

E A S T - I N D I E S

with three ships, the Dragon, Hector, and Consent, carrying about 310 People.

I. C H A P T E R.

Their misfortune, and return to Sierra Leone, and further

occurrences until their departure from Saldania.

A decorative woodcut initial 'I' features ornate leafy vines and floral patterns.

Departure from the Downs.

Crossing the Line.

Compelled by various misfortunes to return.

On the 1st of April, 1607, the Dragon and Hector arrived in the Downs. Having departed from there, their hope was thwarted by various misfortunes, and they became so disheartened that by the beginning of June, having crossed the Line the Equator and reached four or five degrees of Southern latitude, they were forced by currents, calms, rain, sickness, and other maritime inconveniences to turn back Northwards. Because they missed the island of Fernando de Noronha, they lost their way and did not know what to do.

Whereupon a ship's council is held.

On the 13th of July, the General held a council with Captain Taverner, who gave as his answer that they should resolve to return to England. This was expected by all the crew, though in the meantime, there was talk of

Willem Keeling.