I have found these islands in need of men, whose numbers are decreasing because of the poor climate.  The need of them requires that your Majesty provide a remedy; for the reenforcements from Nueva Espana are costly.  Although the governors have exceeded their authority by giving licenses [to leave the country], I can not avoid representing to your Majesty that the inhabitants of Manila are worthy of the favors that your Majesty may be pleased to show them, provided it does not result in disservice to your Majesty—­as I warn you by a separate letter touching revenue matters, in order that I may not confuse those matters in this letter; and in another letter touching military matters, I advise your Majesty of certain points, which also depend on the same thing. [In the margin:  “Write to the governor to avoid giving licenses; and to the viceroy [of Nueva Espana] that he send some men there, as is ordered.”]

The governors whom your Majesty shall provide for these islands should be as experienced in nautical matters as in those of the land; and should at the same time understand judicial and legislative matters. [In the margin:  “Seen.”]

Licentiate Don Francisco de Rojas finished his visit, and has proceeded in it as an honest and good minister.  He has done considerable in so brief a term, when one considers his poor health.  He goes well informed on the affairs of these regions, in order to inform your Majesty of what he has seen.  Although he has borne himself with discretion, he leaves these provinces afflicted, because he has taken away encomiendas from very poor persons who have served well, and who by virtue of these grants have become citizens.  They have been condemned because they did not secure the confirmation of your Majesty within the time set.  Their excuse is, not only that it is not more than two years since your Majesty’s decree requiring that the confirmation be given was proclaimed, but that, besides their living in the most remote provinces in the world, the advice-ships from Nueva Espana were wrecked this year.  The ships sailing hence have put back to port, and their despatches have not arrived; and as they are soldiers, with careless agents who employ but little effort in soliciting their causes, will your Majesty be pleased to show them the favor that is agreeable to you. [In the margin:  “It was provided.”]

Two auditors have remained in this royal Audiencia, because the visitor suspended the other two.  There is a lack of officials, for I also found that the fiscal, Don Juan de Quesada, was dead.  The government appointed in his place, before my arrival, Don Juan Fernandez de Ledo, until your Majesty order otherwise.  I am informed that he is a capable person, and that he is very learned and of praiseworthy morals.  Will your Majesty be pleased to show him the favor that you may deem advisable. [In the margin:  “It was provided.”]