the Mahometans as many as he can support.  I believe that this evil custom in the islands of Mindanao and Leite has been derived from that sect; for they are increasing throughout the world, propagating their cursed doctrine with as much zeal and concern as we do our holy faith.  It had taken root in Burnei before we took possession of the Filipinas; and from that island they had come to preach it in Manila, where they had begun to teach it publicly when our people arrived and tore it up by the roots.  Less than fourteen years ago it was introduced into Mindanao, on this side of the island, which is no small reason for sorrow and regret.  While the marriage-bond lasts, the husband is, as with us, the lord of all; or, at least, all the wealth is kept together, and both parties endeavor to increase it as much as they can—­although they are wont to steal from each other for their own purposes.

Of the island of Ibabao, and how the Society entered it.  Chapter XXXI.

It is this island which first gives joy to the vessels which sail hence for the Filipinas; for it is the first land descried in our passage westward.  A headland on its coast is the celebrated cape of Espiritu Santo, which we sight on arriving at the islands, and for which we sought.  With this island on the left, and the great island of Manila on the right, we enter directly the Filipinas Islands, leaving the islands of the Ladrones three hundred leguas behind.  It also forms with the island of Leite, which lies south of it, a very narrow strait, through which a few ships have penetrated—­especially those which under stress of weather, and driven back by the force of the storms, have been compelled to take refuge in the port of Cebu.  The island is large and populous, and all around it are many adjacent islands, also inhabited.  All its people are generally regarded as very peaceable, and they have made an excellent beginning in receiving the gospel, the chiefs being most distinguished in this regard—­which is a matter of considerable importance, as they open the way for the others by their example.  The first one of the Society to enter that island for instruction was Father Francisco de Otaco, who went thither with two companions.  Although in the beginning hardships did not fail them, through their lack of material resources, they were so well provided with those that were spiritual that one could well recompense the other.  They arrived on the western side of the island, which is eastward of the archipelago, at a village called Tinagon, [90] without any fixed or chosen post, and arrived there very opportunely for their purpose since at that time a plague, communicated from other districts, prevailed in that part of the island, causing the death of many people.  Accordingly, they at once set about their task, and labored diligently, going from house to house, and from one sick person to another, teaching and baptizing.  But the unexpected results lightened their toil; for the number of those