The specimens of gold, cinnamon, and wax were found in a port called Butuan, where we, the treasurer, and the factor, went by order of the general to investigate a certain report which we had heard concerning things to be found in the island of Beguendanao [Mindanao].  We found the aforesaid port, and in it two Moro junks which were trading there.  According to orders received, we made peace with the lord of the said port, and gave him the message and the present which the general sent him.  We gave him to understand that with his pleasure we were going to trade in his land, and that we would favor and protect him in everything in the name of his majesty.  He answered us through the Moros, who served as interpreters, that he was pleased with our offers.  We learned that the Moros felt very uneasy about the embassy, and we think that they influenced the said ruler and the natives by their vile designs.  We were obliged to trade with them because they gave no opportunity to the natives to trade with us.  The said Moros demanded in exchange for their goods nothing but testones, and it was agreed that for each weight of gold six of silver should be given.  At this rate we bartered for the specimens of gold, wax, and cinnamon, which we send to his majesty and to your highness.  The money belonged to some deceased persons, a memorandum of which we send to the officials of the royal exchequer.

We beseech his majesty, and your highness in his royal name, that, inasmuch as the said Moros and others take all the gold, pearls, jewels, precious stones and other things of which we have no information,—­thus injuring the natives, both by giving us no opportunity to plant our holy faith among them, and by taking the said gold, they should, if they continue the said trade, lose their property and be made slaves, for they preach the doctrine of Mahomet.  This matter, as well as the necessary supplies to be sent for our aid, your highness will order to be looked after with great diligence; because all that we ask for in the memorandum is of great necessity in our present critical condition.  May your highness add and send whatever may seem best to you, so that we may be able to accomplish in these regions what his majesty desires.  There is great need of the Christian religion among these natives, as well as of the men and other things asked in the memorandum.  May our Lord keep the most powerful persons of your highnesses, and cause you to prosper with large kingdoms and seigniories.

From Cubu, May xxviii, in the year MDLXV.

Most powerful sirs, we are the faithful servants of your highnesses, who very humbly kiss your most powerful feet.

Guido de Labecares Andres Cauchela Andres de Mirandaola

Memorandum of the Supplies and Munitions Asked to Be Sent from Nueva Espana to His Majesty’s Camp at the Port of Cubu

Memorandum of things—­not only articles of barter, but arms and military supplies—­which are necessary, to be provided immediately from Nueva Espana in the first vessels sailing from the said Nueva Espana to these Felipinas Islands; of which the following articles must be speedily furnished: