132 HISTORY OF BROOKLYN.

is not the want of good-will in Polhemus; but as we never did give him a call, we cannot resolve to contribute to his maintenance. The possibility of so doing being wholly out of the question, as explained to your Honors; and although the Magistrates of Breuckelen resolved to contribute something towards the salary of the aforesaid Polhemus, it would be on their own account, as the congregation can never resolve to join them. Many there are among them who cannot, and who rather need that others should come to their aid. To this (the consideration of the fact) should be added that many farms are unoccupied and waste: as the farms of Mr. Poulis; a farm lying near the shore, of Fred1k Lubbertgen; on another farm lives a poor person, who also has nothing, and cannot afford to give any thing; while (there is) Lodewyck, who lives on one of the farms for the poor, and whose land also lies waste, as also that of Peter Cornelissen and Elbert Elbertsen. So also the land of Black Hans, Grabie’s (Gaby’s) land, Peter Mallemacque, Peter Minuit, Jan Manty (Manje?) and many others; from all which your Honors may easily calculate what may here be given or expected. And suppose that every one of us was taxed, even then no person can be induced to contribute any thing for such a poor service as thus far has been obtruded on us. However, permit us to say in conclusion,.and be it said in reverence, that as those of Midwout have engaged said Polhemus alone, without our knowledge, and without any previous communication (with us), we have no objection whatever. Nay, we are rather satisfied that the people of Midwout shall enjoy exclusively the whole service of the aforesaid Rev. Polhemus. And in case the aforesaid Polhemus should again desire to say his prayers here, in lieu Of giving a sermon, as he did before, although we are unwilling to put ourselves under any obligation, still we are disposed to make him, from time to time, as opportunity shall offer, some allowance, as proof of our good-will, inasmuch as there are several among us who think and act favorably of the Reverend Polhemus, although they make no use of his services. With this conclusion, we commend your Honors to God's merciful protection, with the cordial wish of a Happy New Year, besides a prosperous and blessed administration, to Salvation; recommending ourselves to your Honors, favor, while we shall ever remain 1
Your obedient servants,

Done in Breuckelen, January 1, 1657.”

1 N. Y. Col. MSS., viii. 406.