Accounts of William Finch about Mughal Period (Special Reference to Jahangir Period 1608-1611)

One of the most interesting and useful narratives dealing with the reign of Jahangir is that of William Finch, who landed with Hawkins at Surat on 24^th August 1608, and stayed in India for nearly four years, observing the manners and customs of the people there and describing many aspects of Indian life in a way that had no precedent in the writings of other travelers. Nothing is known of his early life except that he was a native of London and servant to Master Johnson in Cheapside. After his association with the East India Company we have a full account of his life and achievements. This association dates from the year 1607 when he was appointed agent to an expedition sent by the Company, under Hawkins and Keeling, to treat with the Great Mughal. On 12^th July 1609, Finch, still at Surat wrote to Hawkins, congratulating him on his appointment as "Captain over 400 horses etc."