Document: Resolution of the burgomasters and schepens in the matter of the marriage of Johannis van Beecq and Maria Verleth

Copy. The mayors and schepens of this city, having seen and examined the petition submitted at our meeting on the 10th and 16th of February[1] concerning the marriage bond between Johannis van Beecq and Maria Verleth, therefore have noted: First, who initiated the marriage in the beginning; also, what advice the teacher of the heathens[2] has to offer thereon.

Second, the proper ages attained by Johannis van Beecq and Maria Verleth. Third, the consent of the father and mother on the daughter's side.

Fourth, the distance and remoteness of places between here and our fatherland; in addition to the misfortune between both states, Holland and England.

Fifth, the danger that in such circumstances of long delay a situation might develop between these aforesaid young people which could bring about a scandal over both their houses.

Whereas the theologians rightly and justly say that we must not tolerate or permit lesser sins in order thereby to avoid greater ones; therefore, we believe (with all due respect) that by a proper solemnization of marriage, the lesser and greater sins are prevented, for the apostle to the Hebrews considers the marriage bed sacred.[3] Therefore, the mayors and schepens of this city have decided that the proper ecclesiastical proclamations of these aforesaid young people ought to be made at the earliest opportunity.-to be followed by their marriage. Done at the aforesaid session of the mayors and schepens. Present were: Arent van Hattem, Marten Crigier, Poulus Leendersz van der Grift, Wilh: Beeckman, Pieter Wolfersz, Jochum Pietersz Cuyter and Oloff Stevensz. 19 February 1654 at City Hall in New Amsterdam, New Netherland; below was written: Agrees with the resolution book; was signed: Jacob Kip, secretary.[4]