John Smith, A Description of New England — To the Right Honourable and worthy Lords…
“ Neere twice nine yeares, I haue beene taught by lamentable experience, as well in Europe and Asia, as Affrick, and America, such honest aduentures as the chance of warre doth cast vpon poore Souldiers. So that, if I bee not able to iudge of what I haue seene, contriued, and done; it is not the fault either of my eyes, or foure quarters. And these nine yeares, I haue bent my endeauours to finde a sure foundation to begin these ensuing projects: which though I neuer so plainely and seriously propound; yet it resteth in God, and you, still to dispose of. ”
