I am writing to the viceroy of Nueva Espana the information I have received of the hostile ships; I am asking for reenforcements, [13] and that the ships which return next year must sail very cautiously, as perchance the enemy might be awaiting them at the mouth of the channel, or outside of it.  Moreover, he should send the duties and freight-charges that are paid at Acapulco from the Chinese merchandise.  Your Majesty has ordered that this money be returned to us, but it has never been done.  If it were sent to this royal treasury, this kingdom would not suffer its present necessity and danger.

For some time past I have exercised great care and diligence in the founding of artillery, [14] and it is being more carefully done.  Four out of five medium-sized pieces, which were being founded, have resulted well, and I am very well pleased.  The said founding is being continued by native Indians, and I have a quantity of metals for said work in the royal warehouses of your Majesty.  May God our Lord preserve the royal Catholic person of your Majesty.  Manila, August 7, 1599.

Don Francisco Tello

Letters from Felipe III to Tello

The King:  To Don Francisco Tello, my governor and captain-general of the Filipinas Islands, and president of my royal Audiencia therein established.  Your letter of June 23 of last year, 98, has been received.  I understand by it that quiet and peace has been restored in Mindanao, and that you were examining the papers brought by the master-of-camp, to see whether any of the subdued people were to be punished or not.  Keep me informed of what you shall do in that respect.

You speak also of other insurrections among the Canbales Indians in Panpanga, who were already pacified; and of your intention of taking to that city [Manila] an Indian who has been the chief of those people, in order to remove him to a location where his presence would be less dangerous.  This is well; do what is needed and keep me informed of the proceedings.

We have considered what you say of your caution and forethought concerning the fears which Japan is wont to cause; also your behavior, friendship, and correspondence with certain chiefs of that country, whom you have entertained.  It is well to continue these efforts, and to give us notice of what takes place.

What you say about retiring two companies is commendable; nevertheless, if you think best in the future to increase one of them, do so, and make the necessary provisions.  Keep me informed of the measures that you shall take.

I am writing to the viceroy of Nueva Espana, that I have assisted you with what is necessary, and shall ask him to see that the people whom he sends to those islands be useful and carry weapons.  He shall take care to punish the captains for their excesses.  You shall do the same in what concerns you.