Doctor Francisco de Sande

[In the same legajo, there is a letter from the city of Manila, dated June 2, 1576, which also contains an account of the affair of the pirate Limahon.  It is endorsed thus:  “Let it be abstracted in a report.  Done.”  The abstract of the letter follows, and is doubtless the work of one of the royal clerks or secretaries.  Certain instructions and remarks of the king or council appear in the margin of the abstract.  Opposite that for clauses 71-81, which discuss the proposed conquest of China, are the following remarks:  “Reply as to the receipt of this; and that, in what relates to the conquest of China, it is not fitting at the present time to discuss that matter.  On the contrary, he must strive for the maintenance of friendship with the Chinese, and must not make any alliance with the pirates hostile to the Chinese, nor give that nation any just cause for indignation against us.  He must advise us of everything, and if, when the whole question is understood better, it shall be suitable to make any innovation later, then he will be given the order and plan that he must follow therein.  Meanwhile he shall strive to manage what is in his charge, so that God and his Majesty will be served; and he shall and must adhere strictly to his instructions as to conquests and new explorations.  We shall see to it carefully that he is reenforced annually from this land with men, weapons, ammunition, and everything needed for aid.  The viceroy of Nueva Espana will be informed of this, and ordered to attend to it carefully.  Religious will be sent also, to give instruction; and all supplies that are possible at the present time will be sent.  The governor must be very zealous, and encourage the people there, and give them to understand the care that is and will be taken for them here, in protecting, aiding, and favoring them; and he must govern in all matters as is expected from his good sense and prudence.  Write to the viceroy to send lead, for he [Sande] asks for it.”  Opposite clauses 82-85, treating of the characteristics of the Philippines and of their inhabitants:  “Tell him that the report of that land has been read, and has occasioned gladness, and that he should continue to advise us thus of what is necessary; also that he show much honor and favor to the captains and soldiers.”  Opposite clause 86, treating of the reestablishment of Cebu:  “Write that this is well done; and that he shall strive to have people gathered in the principal presidio [military post].”  Opposite clause 89, treating of Maluco:  “Let there be no innovation in what pertains to the Malucos.”  Opposite clause 90, treating of the encomiendas made by Legazpi:  “In what has been allotted, let there be no innovation; and let that which is granted hereafter be allotted in accordance with the deserts and services of each one.”  Opposite clause 91:  “None of the documents that he mentions as being enclosed with this letter appear