Bali

1694. The great historical, geographical and poetical dictionary by Louis Moreri.

Bali, an Island of the East Indian Sea, on the Coast of Java, from which it is separated by the Channel of Balambuam. It's not above 40 Leagues in Circuit, but well Inhabited: The Men there having many Wives, so that besides the great numbers Sold thence, its reckon'd to nourish 600000: It has abundance of Cattle, Game, and Corn; As also whole Forests of Citron and Orange Trees; and a great quantity of Corn. There are also Gold Mines, but the King will not suffer them to be dug, least it might entice his Neighbours to come for a share. The Inhabitants are Pagans, and Adore what they first meet with in the Morning, as they go out of their Houses. They Trade but very little, though all the Ships that Sail from the Firm Land to the Molucco Islands go just by them, and take in fresh Water, and Provisions there, which are Sold them very cheap. The Capital, which gives the Island its Name, is a very fine Town, where the King has a Magnificent Palace; He is seldom seen, and People Address themselves to his Minister of State, whom they call Quillor; Under this Minister are several Governors of Provinces. The Common Sort of People have a great Love and Honour for their King, and Couragiously resist those that endeavour to disturb the publick Tranquillity. Mandeslo. Voyage des Indies.