state in a letter by way of Nueva Espana.  As the affair seemed urgent to me and very important, serious, and of weighty consideration and promise, and one fitting to bring about great things in the noble service of the divine majesty of God our Lord, and of your Majesty, I discussed this matter, and considered whether it would not be a better plan to make an expedition to Chanpa, [30] as this is a very important passage and post.  It is occupied by a cruel and pernicious tyrant who commits and causes iniquities, cruelties, and unheard-of treacheries.  In the opinion of certain persons who have been there, the capture of this place would be very easy, with two hundred Spaniards and five hundred Indians; or at the most, success is assured with three hundred Spaniards.  Both on account of the facility and importance of this expedition, and the tyrannical deeds, treacheries, and iniquities of that king, investigations have been made, and the matter submitted to the prelates and other clerical persons, in order that they might consider whether it were just.  Although there were some reservations and conditions, they decided that the expedition was just.  This was submitted to a council of war, together with the question of aid to the king of Canboja, in order to determine which matter it would be better to undertake.  However it was resolved definitely in favor of the expedition to Chanpa for certain reasons and considerations.  But at the same time it was also resolved to send someone to Canboja to ascertain the king’s condition, and what were his determination, wish, and intention in respect to the help requested by him, and in his name by Diego Veloso.  Now we must determine and decide what will be best for the service of God and of your Majesty.  God willing, Captain Juan Juarez Gallinato, a man of talents, discretion, and experience, and well fitted for this occasion and the contingencies that may arise (which are of no little consideration, importance, and weight), will take charge of this expedition.  He will have two ships and some troops, and is under orders to proceed according to the weather, opportunity, and disposition and state of affairs which are in his opinion most fitting.  He is to discuss certain matters with the Siamese king, and to procure the release of the religious and other persons whom the latter holds captive.  Especially he is to establish friendship with the king of Canboja, who, as it seems, is desirous thereof, inasmuch as he has asked for it so repeatedly and with so great earnestness.  Thus for this and many other reasons, in the opinion of those who regard and view matters with some consideration, this expedition is a work prompted and incited by the Holy Spirit.  May God grant that matters may be directed in the best way for His service.  The spiritual and temporal benefits to be derived from it, to the glory of God and the good and conversion of His creatures, will not be few, if His Divine Majesty will grant a beginning of His light and knowledge in this great