Meaning: The quote "Not only I lost what I had in the ship, but from the captain and the company generally what was good or worth the taking was carried away; all which was done unknown to the emperor" is attributed to Will Adams, an English navigator who is best known for his role in the opening of Japan to the Western world in the early 17th century. This quote reflects Adams' experience of loss and betrayal during his time in Japan.

Will Adams was born in Gillingham, England, in 1564. In 1598, he set sail as the pilot of a Dutch fleet that was bound for the East Indies. However, the fleet encountered a severe storm and was forced to seek refuge in Japan. This turn of events marked the beginning of Adams' remarkable journey in Japan.

Upon arriving in Japan, Adams and his crew were initially met with suspicion and were detained by the local authorities. However, Adams' knowledge of navigation and shipbuilding impressed the Japanese, particularly the powerful warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu. Adams quickly gained favor with Ieyasu and was eventually granted permission to remain in Japan.

The quote captures a moment of disillusionment for Adams as he reflects on the loss of his possessions and the betrayal by his fellow crew members. It conveys a sense of frustration and disappointment at the actions of those around him. The mention of the emperor suggests that Adams felt that the deceitful actions of the captain and the crew were carried out without the knowledge of the Japanese authorities, further highlighting the underhanded nature of the situation.

Despite the challenges he faced, Adams adapted to life in Japan and became an influential figure in the country. He played a key role in advising the Japanese on Western shipbuilding techniques and technology, contributing to the modernization of Japan's maritime capabilities. Adams' knowledge and expertise were highly valued by the Japanese, and he was eventually granted the prestigious title of "hatamoto," or direct retainer of the shogun.

In addition to his contributions to shipbuilding, Adams also served as an interpreter and diplomatic liaison between the Japanese and the Western powers. His understanding of both cultures and languages made him a valuable asset in facilitating communication and trade between Japan and the outside world.

The quote captures a moment of personal hardship for Adams, but it also reflects the broader theme of cultural exchange and the challenges inherent in navigating unfamiliar territories. Adams' journey to Japan was marked by loss and adversity, but it ultimately led to significant contributions to the exchange of knowledge and technology between East and West.

In conclusion, Will Adams' quote "Not only I lost what I had in the ship, but from the captain and the company generally what was good or worth the taking was carried away; all which was done unknown to the emperor" provides a glimpse into the challenges and setbacks he faced during his time in Japan. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of cross-cultural interactions and the resilience required to overcome adversity in unfamiliar environments. Adams' story is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and the lasting impact of individual efforts in shaping the course of history.