Document: Resolution to fortify the city of New Amsterdam and send an embassy to Virginia

[ Council Meeting ], 20 April 1653. [ ] Marten Cryger.

First, it is decided, upon hearing the unexpected [ rumors ], that the citizens, without exception, shall work on the constructions - undertaken jointly for the defense of this city - by immediately digging a ditch from the East River to the North River, 4 to 5 feet deep and 11 to 12 feet wide, sloping inward slightly toward the bottom.Secondly, that the carpenters shall be urged to prepare jointly the stake perimeter.Thirdly, that the soldiers and other servants of the Company, together with the free Negroes, no one excepted, shall complete the work on the fort by constructing a breastwork, and the farmers are to be summoned to haul the sod.Fourthly, that the sawyers shall immediately begin to saw some planks of four inches' thickness for [ gun carriages ] or platforms.It is further resolved that a deputation be sent to Virginia; also, that attempts be made to obtain a barkload of salt from there for the use of the inhabitants here. Fiscal Tienhoven is appointed thereto on behalf of the Company, and the mayors and schepens are asked to send along one of their people, which they will consider at their next meeting and then give an answer.