quantity of merchandise, horses, cows, and more than three
thousand men. I have treated them hospitably and given them a kind
reception. They are very anxious for our trade on this account, and
because of the large gains that they make--although, in our opinion,
they sell so cheaply that we can but think that either products are
raised in their country without any labor, or that they find them
without money. They bring many rare articles, and every product of
Spana, so that there is usually but little lack of those supplies
here, both in clothing and food; while they bring many things not
found in that country. It is a land of great abundance, and has
an infinite number of people, all workers, and each one master
of many trades. Two vessels have also come to this city from the
Portuguese of the city of Macan, laden with curious merchandise,
whence they have drawn great gain. The Chinese, on this account,
have been very envious, and jealous, and fearful lest the Portuguese
should work them an injury. Certain captains and leading men among
them asked me why, since the Portuguese had settled in Macan, near
the province of Canton, China, and held their trade there, we do not
do the same likewise in the province of Chincheo, whence they bring
so much wealth to this land. They say that, if there were Spaniards
there, they could send their goods to this land. These with what they
themselves bring, would render it quite unnecessary for the Portuguese
to come here. I thanked them heartily for the suggestion, and in reply,
said that, next year, they should bring a _chapa_, or passport from
their viceroy of Chincheo, so that Castilians could go there; and
that, as the people of Canton had lent the island of Macao, that the
Portuguese might settle there, so they should lend us another island,
very near Chincheo, on which we could settle and construct a fortress.

At present, I could say [no] more than this, but I told them that
your Majesty wished to favor them, and had given me orders to that
effect; and that, if they would keep their promises, your Majesty
would send Spaniards to protect and aid them in their wars, and to
defend them from their enemies. They were exceedingly glad at hearing
this, and agreed to bring the chapa; for the viceroy is very anxious
to increase the incomes there [at Chincheo] by the duties that the
Spanish vessels would pay. I am continuing to inspire them with love
and affection for your Majesty's servi