ammunition and artillery. Food can
be supplied to them here, and the troops are energetic, healthy,
and young. This is the empire and the greatest glory which remains
for the king of the world, the interest which surpasses all others,
and the greatest service to God.

I think that I have drawn a true picture of the people, as they are the
best in the world for tributarios. They have waged war against the king
of Tartaria. [105] If they made war on this coast, his occupation,
and even that of both, God helping, would soon be over. They have
many enemies in this archipelago, who are more valiant than they and
who will be of great help. I beseech your Majesty to provide what
is most fitting, that the power and laws of so just and great a king
may encircle the world.

In these Filipinas islands there are at present five hundred Spaniards
in all, and if there were ten thousand, all would be rich. As there
are so few we suffer many hardships, since we are among so many
enemies. Our only consolation, and mine in particular, is that we
are serving your Majesty. Our diligence is unremitting, and we hope
for your Majesty's favor. Your Majesty will provide in this for your
own cause, and that of the Catholic church. As I write at length
to your Majesty's Council, this letter is but brief. May our Lord
guard the royal Catholic person of your Majesty, and increase your
kingdoms and seigniories, is the wish of your Majesty's vassals and
servants. Manila, in the island of Lucon of the Filipinas, June 2,
1576. Royal Catholic Majesty, from your Majesty's loyal vassal and
servant, who kisses your royal hands,

The doctor, _Francisco de Sande_

Bibliographical Data

All the material of the present volume is found in the archives
of Spain--mainly in the Archivo de Indias at Sevilla, and in
two patronatos therein; from transcripts of these documents our
translations are made, except as otherwise noted. One of these
patronatos is thus described: "Simancas Secular; Audiencia de
Filipinas; Cartas y expedientes del gobernador de Filipinas vistas
en consejo; anos 1567 a 1599; est. 67, caj. 6, leg. 6." Under this
pressmark are found the following documents: 1569--letters by Lavezaris
and Legazpi (this a copy, perhaps made by the viceroy to send to
the king), and confirmation of the latter's title; 1570--the last
two; 1573--Lavezaris's relation; 1574--Lavezaris's letters to king;
1576--the last two. The other patronato is: "Simanc