It all reads like a mystery--these repeated, determined, and energetic attempts to discover a new way of reaching the fabled region of Cathay.
In these early times the Dutch were not unworthy rivals of the English.
After they had succeeded in throwing off the Spanish yoke and achieved their independence, they became one of the most formidable of maritime powers.

In the course of another century Holland possessed more colonies, and had a larger share of the carrying trade of the world than Britain.

It was natural therefore that the Dutch republic should take an interest in the North-west passage; and the Dutch sailors, by their enterprise and bravery, were among the first to point the way to Arctic discovery.

Barents and Behring, above all others, proved the courage and determination of their heroic ancestors.
The romance of the East India Company begins with an advertisement in the London Gazette of 1599, towards the end of the reign of Queen Elizabeth.

As with all other enterprises of the nation, it was established by private means.