Document: Judgment in the case of the farmers of the city excise vs. William Pietersen

Waernaer Wessels and Cornelis Hendricksen van Dorderecht, farmers of the tapper’s excise of this city, against Willem Pietersen, defendant, tavernkeeper and resident of this city.

The plaintiffs complain that the defendant refused them twice to make the proper measurements, therefore punishment is requested.

The defendant replies that this is not true, but that he did refuse the first time, requesting that they show their orders or instructions; further, if the plaintiffs had something to say about smuggling or otherwise, that they should do the same.

The honorable lords high councilors having heard the parties and having understood the case, have notified and ordered the defendant henceforth not to be contrary in letting the plaintiffs properly measure, and to give a certain amount to the poor, and to pay the expenses of the court messenger.

Thus done at the session of the honorable lords high councilors in New Amsterdam, New Netherland, ady ut supra.