“For some years past the discalced Augustinian fathers of the congregation of Espana have been, and are, gathering very large harvests in the conversion of the infidels of these islands; for, besides the many others that they have in other bishoprics, they have more than ten convents in my diocese alone.  They are laboring therein in the cultivation of the vineyard of the Lord, with the best of example, strict observance, and care.  This is in the newest and most dangerous posts of these islands, where their lives are exposed to great risk, as the islands are hostile.  But notwithstanding all these dangers and hardships, they have converted a very great number of infidels, both adults and children, to our holy Catholic faith.  I trust, God helping, that the conversion of the infidels—­and especially those of one island where those holy religious have their missions, as it is one of the largest islands of these regions—­will, in the future, by means of their care and industry, advance and increase to much greater, etc.”

Besides the above, there are three other letters to the same congregation, of the following tenor: 

“The discalced religious of the Order of our father St. Augustine have worked hard as long as they have been in these islands (which is many years), and with good example, in the preaching of the holy gospel; and they have gathered a great harvest of souls.  They have established many convents in the islands, for which they should receive honor from your Excellencies, and receive protection, so that his Holiness, as master and father, may concede them rewards and favors, so that they may be encouraged to complete what they have begun.”

The second letter contains the following points: 

“The Recollect fathers of the Order of our father St. Augustine in these Philippinas Islands are laboring faithfully in the vineyard of the Lord, with good example and prodigious danger, as the people whom they instruct are harsh and fierce.  In some districts, they are making much gain in the conversion of souls; in Japon they have made a very great gain, and have converted many, both men and women, who have given their lives for the confession of our holy faith, as will be seen there by the authentic report that is being sent to his Holiness.  Consequently, they deserve that your most illustrious Lordships show them every grace and protection, and that you encourage them to proceed in a work so holy by writing to the king of Espana to protect and aid them, for that their example and good life deserve it.”

The third letter is of the tenor that is set down here: