g matters, for he has much
knowledge thereof, as well as in the working of metals. You may discuss
with him what you wish, and anything pertaining to the good of your
kingdom. You may credit anything that he may say and represent in my
name. I shall be very glad to establish intercourse and communication
between us; for the people of Canboja will ever meet, when they
come here, hospitable reception and fatherly love from me. Truly I
wish that I had here some Spanish curiosities to send to the king of
Canboja, in token of love and friendship; but on a second journey,
God pleasing, I shall be better prepared. In the meanwhile I shall
inform the said king, my sovereign, of this new friendship, and of
the pathway opened for trade and communication between us, which is so
useful and agreeable to all, and from which I hope will result glory
for our great God, and many beneficial results. The king, my sovereign,
will heartily commend and favor this, and will rejoice exceedingly
that it shall result in every way to your satisfaction and approval,
an object which I shall forward whenever opportunity presents. May
our Lord God preserve and prosper you. Manila, February 8, 1594.
Considering that the king of Canboja wishes to advance Diego de
Belosso, and that he is a deserving man, I have given special orders
that he should go, as he does, free from restrictions, and with
satisfactory equipment.
[_Endorsed_: "+1594+. Copy of the letter to the king of Canboja from
Governor Don Luis Perez."]
Investigation of the Hospital
I, Hernando de los Rios, administrator of the royal hospital of
this city, declare that, because of the small amount of income and
alms received by the said hospital, the needs of the sick are not
provided for. It is impossible to give them everything requisite
for their health, inasmuch as there are many sick there, both of
the ordinary troops and the mercenary soldiers, to whom his Majesty
gives medicines, and for whom he supplies a physician, as he is
bound to do. The same provision is made for the other poor and needy
inhabitants and citizens to whom his Majesty is under obligations,
as they are old soldiers and settlers who have served for many years
in this country without any pay. Many of them fall sick from the great
sufferings that they undergo, because of the unhealthfulness of this
country, both in food and climate, and from other causes. However,
these would be much more numerous, if the
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