The harbour was strongly fortified, as a Portuguese squadron that attacked them found to its cost.
A dock was made; crops were sown; a Lord Conservator was appointed for three years, with a Parliament to make laws.

The colony was still in its infancy when it was surprised and destroyed by the natives, while Misson was away on a cruise; and so Libertatia came to an end.

Tew succeeded in escaping to his sloop with a quantity of diamonds and gold in bars.

On Misson rejoining him, they determined to go to America.

Misson's ship foundered in a storm, while Tew made his way to Rhode Islands, and lived there for a time unquestioned.