n to hold the orders given them in but little
estimation, and with good reason to mock and jest, and make sport
of our mode of government and our decrees. It is almost impossible,
or exceedingly difficult, to enforce or execute the latter, or to
remedy the very great inconveniences which result and are caused by
these heathen, because of the many defenders whom they have and find
for their pretensions. Two things in regard to these people are most
worthy of consideration. One is that, as these people mingle so freely
and at large among the natives in these islands for their trading and
business, they can very easily under this pretext and appearance with
all safety, security, and freedom, investigate and note the ports,
islands, and settlements; they can also see how careless and negligent
the forces have become, and can observe the lack of troops, forces,
and defense from which we suffer. Thus they may dare to interfere,
and can bring to these islands any enemy or enemies whatsoever,
who are covetous of the islands; or they may plan some alliance and
deviltry with the natives. The latter being aggrieved, querulous,
and dissatisfied can be moved by their persuasions, or inclined
and persuaded toward their traffic, modes, and customs of more
gain, comfort, and liberty, with less subjection, oppression, and
ill-treatment, than are suffered and received by many. Consequently,
there is no little cause, disposition, and opportunity for any evil
whatsoever, since we are so confident and these Sangleys are a people
very covetous, cunning, and treacherous--as has been experienced in
the mutiny on a ship and the killing of the Spaniards who were on
their way to the province of Cagayan, a few days ago. There was also
the rebellion of Cayalera, so costly, severe, and injurious, and which
hindered so greatly the service of God and of your Majesty, which was
to have been accomplished. There was afterward the case of another ship
of Portuguese and religious, which was bound for Malaca; and now this
year, but a few days ago, a ship, with about thirty Spaniards aboard,
was going to the island of Mindanao. Many were killed, and the few
who escaped were wounded and injured. The second point is that, in
addition to what has been said about this nation, they have unchaste,
shameless, and abominable ways of life and customs. Besides having
enough proof and experience to be able to say this, I certify to the
truth of having heard this from a