CHAPTER III

JESSE DE FOREST AND THE HOME-MAKERS

The shiploads of American furs sold in Amster¬
dam set Dutch money-makers hot on the trail for
more. Led by Usselinx, they urged in the State
Legislature of Holland that a West India Com¬
pany be formed. Asia had enriched the Republic.
Why should not New Netherland ?

Not while the truce with Spain lasted could the
national congress grant the petition of Usselinx;
but in 1621, when war was renewed, consent was
given. Then, like hounds from the leash, the
Dutch leaped to lead all nations in commercial
enterprise. In June, 1621, the West India Com¬
pany was chartered. The governor-general of the
new corporation must be commissioned and ap¬
proved by the congress; but, except on this point,
its powers were sovereign. It could effect treaties
and alliances with princes and potentates, erect
forts, levy and arm soldiers, dispatch war vessels,
plant colonies, carry on war, and establish govern¬
ment. Its products imported into Holland were
free of all taxes for the space of eight years. Its
proud flag bore the monogram G. W. C, for it
possessed the coveted privileges of a Geoctrooyed^
or chartered corporation with monopoly.