CHAPTER XXII

THE  ENGLISH  GOVEKNORS

The existence of New Netherland as a political
entity ceased in 1664, after which, except for a
short time in 1674, the Dutch people and their
descendants were cut off from vital connection
with Patria. All accounts and descriptions of the
New York Dutchmen after these dates, especially
when penned or drawn by persons living much
later, are to be read with caution and taken with
much critical salt.

Happily for all. Colonel Richard NicoUs, the
first governor of the Duke of York's province,
spoke both Dutch and French. He was a conscien¬
tious Irish gentleman, who soon became master of
hearts, winning all by his firmness, tact, and jus¬
tice. Among his first works were friendly con¬
sultation with the leading men in the province,
rectification of its boundary lines, and renewal of
covenant relations with the Indians.

NicoUs and Stuyvesant became good friends. It
is even suspected that the Irishman learned much
from the Dutchman; for, despite his merit, the
King's officer was as arbitrary in action as was
the servant of the late " John Company." NicoUs
broke his promises of popular representation by