As for the uprising of the Chinese, I will only say that it might have been averted, if the decrees of your Majesty had been obeyed that prohibit so excessive a number of infidels, accustomed to treachery and perverse habits, from remaining here; and if they were plotting another conspiracy with those that ordinarily come from China, they have been blinded through the great mercy of the Lord, who by their downfall leaves us wiser and with fewer enemies.

The damage and robbery inflicted by the people of Mindanao in these islands could have been prevented if the garrison of Spaniards in that island, which held the pirates in check, had not been recalled.  At present the need is all the greater, as they are encouraged by their victories, and our Bisayans are dispirited.  In the islands where our humble Society of Jesus teaches, they caused great loss; and during the past month they attacked Leyte, and captured two of our religious, and more than eight hundred natives besides.  This was at their first entry, and gave them courage to continue ravaging other neighboring islands, where the members of our Society are also in danger.  This was written me from Zebu, by our provincial who is visiting those islands and missions, where there are many good Christians—­and this at great risk to himself.  It is a great pity that so new a Christian people should be molested by those from Mindanao, who are infected by the doctrine of Mahoma.  It would be easy for your Majesty to give us remedy in this by ordering troops and aid sent from Nueva Espana, wherewith Don Pedro de Acuna may show his valor and accomplish his wishes; for his services are of great Importance here, as your Majesty knows.

Captain and Sargento-mayor Christobal Azuleta [sic; sc.  Azcueta] Menchaca, who always has been an excellent soldier, likewise distinguished himself greatly in this affair of the Chinese Sangleys, achieving two noteworthy victories, wherein were killed more than five thousand of the enemy without the loss of a single Spaniard—­of whom he took great care, as they are so few and precious here.

A complete relation of all matters will be given to your Majesty by Fray Diego Guevara [27] prior of the Augustinians of this city, who, as a person of so much religion, experience, integrity, and veracity, is going on this mission on behalf of these islands—­where we are all beseeching God our Lord to protect us, and to prosper your Majesty for many years, with good measure of his choicest gifts, for the greater glory of His Divine Majesty, etc.  From this college of the Society of Jesus, Manila, December 10, 1603.

Gregorio Lopez

Sire: