h
their artillery; and that they, after burning their fort, shall go to
Cebu. When it shall appear to me that a favorable opportunity occurs,
they can return to La Caldera, from which, according to orders, it
is necessary that punishment be inflicted on the king of Jolo for
the crimes, and the murders of Spaniards committed in this land.

I am writing to the viceroy of Nueva Espana the information I have
received of the hostile ships; I am asking for reenforcements, [13]
and that the ships which return next year must sail very cautiously,
as perchance the enemy might be awaiting them at the mouth of the
channel, or outside of it. Moreover, he should send the duties
and freight-charges that are paid at Acapulco from the Chinese
merchandise. Your Majesty has ordered that this money be returned to
us, but it has never been done. If it were sent to this royal treasury,
this kingdom would not suffer its present necessity and danger.

For some time past I have exercised great care and diligence in the
founding of artillery, [14] and it is being more carefully done. Four
out of five medium-sized pieces, which were being founded, have
resulted well, and I am very well pleased. The said founding is being
continued by native Indians, and I have a quantity of metals for said
work in the royal warehouses of your Majesty. May God our Lord preserve
the royal Catholic person of your Majesty. Manila, August 7, 1599.

_Don Francisco Tello_

Letters from Felipe III to Tello

The King: To Don Francisco Tello, my governor and captain-general of
the Filipinas Islands, and president of my royal Audiencia therein
established. Your letter of June 23 of last year, 98, has been
received. I understand by it that quiet and peace has been restored
in Mindanao, and that you were examining the papers brought by the
master-of-camp, to see whether any of the subdued people were to be
punished or not. Keep me informed of what you shall do in that respect.

You speak also of other insurrections among the Canbales Indians in
Panpanga, who were already pacified; and of your intention of taking to
that city [Manila] an Indian who has been the chief of those people,
in order to remove him to a location where his presence would be less
dangerous. This is well; do what is needed and keep me informed of
the proceedings.

We have considered what you say of your caution and forethought
concerning the fears which Japan is wont to cause; also yo