by the Managers, and also on account of the monies and means
which were given in common, being privately appropriated and
used. But it was all in vain, there was very little or no
amendment; and the greater the endeavors to help, restore and
raise up everything, the worse has it been; for pride has
ruled when justice dictated otherwise, just as if it were
disgraceful to follow advice, and as if everything should come
from one head. The fruits of this conduct can speak and bear
testimony of themselves. It has been so now so long, that
every day serves the more to condemn it. Previously to the
23rd of July 1649, nothing had been done concerning weights
and measures or the like; but at that time they notified the
people that in August then next ensuing the matter would be
regulated. The fiscaal would then attend to it, which was
as much as to say, would give the pigeons to drink. There is
frequently much discontent and discord among the people on
account of weights and measures, and as they are never
inspected, they cannot be right. It is also believed that
some of easy consciences have two sets of them, but we cannot
affirm the fact. As to the corn measure, the Company itself
has always been suspected, but who dare lisp it? The payment
in zeewant, which is the currency here, has never been placed
upon a good footing, although the commonalty requested it,
and showed how it should be regulated, assigning numerous
reasons therefor. But there is always misunderstanding and
discontent, and if anything is said before the Director of
these matters more than pleases him, very wicked and spiteful
words are returned. Those moreover whose office requires
them to speak to him of such things are, if he is in no good
fit, very freely berated as clowns, bear-skinners, and the