I have imprisoned Don Luis Perez Dasmarinas, because he failed to fit out and repair thoroughly the said vessel; and, for the same reasons, I have imprisoned also General Matias Delandecho.  An investigation of this matter is being made in the case of each, and justice shall be done.  Copies of all proceedings in connection with this investigation will be sent to your Majesty.

I beg to thank your Majesty for your kindness to this kingdom and especially to myself, in creating here a royal Audiencia, a tribunal very much needed by this government; and although so far I have not received from your Majesty any letter or decree to that effect, I have heard the news through the auditor Don Antonio Maldonado and others, who have communicated it to me.  Doctor Antonio de Morga, lieutenant-general of this kingdom, serves your Majesty here with zeal and assiduity; and because he enforces the law, he has made enemies—­since, as I have previously written to your Majesty, there are honest people here willing to serve your Majesty; but there exist others unruly and ill disposed, who are exceedingly dangerous to the country.  I am punishing a few of these, and am investigating the previous records of others; it shall be done throughout.  May our Lord preserve your Majesty as is needful for the good of Christendom.  Manila, June 15, 1597.

Don Francisco Tello

Sire: 

Every day events are taking place of which I shall advise your Majesty.  A grave Dominican friar [3] lately arrived here from Japon, who went on the ship “San Felipe” which was lost there.  He acquainted me with the affairs of that kingdom, and gave me a memorandum which will accompany this.  I asked him to sign it, and I now send it to your Majesty, so that you may order to be considered and decreed in this matter whatever you think best for your Majesty’s royal service.

Later advices have arrived from Japon to the effect that the Japanese are considering the occupation of the island of Hermosa [Formosa] which lies near these islands, and serves as a connecting point between China and these islands.  I am considering what is best to do in this case, because, although I am of the opinion that we should seize it first, the council of war opposed me; urging that we have few men for such an enterprise.  I have appointed, as general of the coast, Captain Don Juan Camudio, a trusty and serviceable person.  I am also fitting out ships with which to navigate among all these islands, wherever it is necessary.

I have sent money and men to Cagayan to fortify your Majesty’s fort there.  If the men and assistance which I have asked from Nueva Spana are sent to me, I shall not fear all the power of Japon; because, although there are few troops here, they are all excellent and well-drilled.  Your Majesty may be certain that your vassals here will maintain what we hold, even to the death, with sword in hand, doing our duty in your Majesty’s service.  May our Lord preserve your royal person, as Christendom has need and your vassals desire.  Manila, June 19, 1597.