depth of the river,
and the number of inhabitants. You shall decide with them about the
tribute they are to pay; and, even if they do not pay any, or pay but
little, you shall do them no harm. After examining the river of Baran,
you shall return to this city as soon as possible.
If there are any Portuguese in Borney, or any should come while your
Grace is there, your Grace shall give them a hospitable reception. You
shall ascertain from them both the condition of their affairs and as
much else as you are able. If they commence to show any disrespect
or hostility, then your Grace will try with the utmost diligence to
secure the victory. In no other circumstances shall you wage war with
them. And should you come to hostilities with them, your Grace shall
bring what they have to this city.
Even if the king of Borney should be fortified and have repaired
his forts in Polocharami and Panigaran, your Grace will take
no notice of that, but transact your business in accordance with
your orders. Therefore your Grace shall in no wise fight, unless he
commences it, as upon the other occasion. Then your Grace shall take
what steps are necessary, since the thing is forced on you.
Your Grace shall see to it that your fleet of vessels remain together;
and if any of them become separated in crossing the wide expanses of
water in your course, you shall give orders where it shall meet you,
so that all may be kept in order. In case you have to fight, you shall
put the ship from Castilla in the front, and the others shall aid it,
and, being lighter, can be used better for pursuit.
You shall exercise great care in regard to the musketeers, and put
them in charge of an experienced man, and let opportunity be given
them to advance.
_Item_: You shall exercise care, so that, if the Bornean galleys take
the lead, they shall not separate from the Castilian galley and the
Neapolitan fragata; likewise that the latter does not separate from
the Castilian galley.
_Item_: You shall see to it that the Spaniards do not kill or steal
any cow (for there are but few), so that the king of Borney make
no complaint.
There are cows in Borney and in Mohala, in the island of
Bencoraco. Notice shall be given among your people, so that these
beasts may be preserved; in the river of Tabaron, where I have said
that you must go, the men may kill swine and deer, if necessity arise,
for there are many of these animals there.
_Item_: You shall not al
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