A ship that was sailing from Peru in the South Sea was caught in the swirl of a storm. The food and water supplies exhausted
and the desperate crew ultimately found land after several days of sailing. As the ship sailed towards the
island they spotted many
people with batons in their hands and a boat sailed towards them. An officer presented them with a parchment which permitted them to stay on the island for sixteen days, after which they had to return. It had the seal of cupid with wings and a cross.
The crew and sailors from Peru agreed to the offer as they had to replenish their stores and also needed medical attention for the sick people on board. They agreed to pay for their stay and expenses with the merchandise they were carrying. They were then asked to swear on the name of God that they were not pirates and murderers. The officer then told them that they would be escorted to the guest house known as Stranger’s House, the following day.
The following day some of the crew of the ship went to check on the place. The house was well equipped and spacious and could accommodate all the people on board. They had a good supply of medicines and the guests were asked to maintain a good decorum.
The sick were cared for well and they were much healthier in three days. The Governor of The House came to meet them on the fourth day and enquired after their comfort in the House. He described the way Christianity was introduced to them during conversation. The sailors were impressed.
During his second visit to them, the crew was curious to know more about the island they were residing in, Ben Salem. They wanted to know about the history and geography and the laws of the island. The Governor was pleased to enlighten them about his land. He also explained to them their family system.
The crew got acquainted with a Jew named Joabin, who enlightened them about the characteristics and customs of the people of Ben Salem. He told them that one of the father’s of Solomon’s House, the sacred place in Ben Salem, was going to arrive there and he also took them there to meet the old, wise man. The Father offered the crew a meeting with him later.
He tells them about the great achievements of the Scientists and Philosophers and all the great scientific achievements in Solomon’s House. He even enlightened them that the laws and rules of the State were made here. All the cultural, scientific and technological advancement of the island was from this place.
After this talk, the Father of Solomon’s House blessed the captain of the ship and permitted him to describe his land for the good of the nations around the world. He also presented to them two thousand ducats which was lots of wealth to the crew and left the place on a journey.