s of the Sangleys; but it resulted in so much
loss that, as has been found by experience, this [year's] collection
has exceeded by many thousand [pesos] the collections made last year.

They have tried to establish the same policy in the inspection of the
Sangley ships, contrary to all good government; for it is fitting that
those people have many to protect them, as I tell more at length in
the section treating of the licenses given by the alcalde-mayor of
Tondo. In no year have they been less humbled than in this.

The wheat used by the inhabitants comes from China, because these
islands do not grow it. Consequently, the common sustenance is
rice. Formerly, as a policy of good government, the past governors
assigned a place where the bread ovens were gathered together, and
prohibited the baking of bread in any other place. In order to make
this bread near at hand, the city made a contract with Captain Andres
Fernandez de Puebla, so that it might be made on a site belonging to
him--with the provision that he, spending in the building what then
seemed sufficient, should enjoy half of the income of the said ovens,
while the other half should remain for the city. All the governors
have confirmed this, as it appeared of utility to the community. This
is what I have to inform you of, according to your Majesty's orders
in your royal decree.

The post of protector of the Sangleys is vacant, as your Majesty has
ordered that account be given of it, and that six suitable persons
be proposed for it, who must be lawyers. It is impossible to find
so many in this community, because of the few inhabitants here; and
some do not care for the said post of protector on these terms. I
propose to your Majesty the person of Captain Matheo de Heredia, who,
besides having served for many years in various exercises, is one of
the best lawyers in Philipinas. The royal Audiencia entrusts business
of importance to him, and he possesses ability and merits for things
of greater worth, and this favor will be well bestowed on him.

The viceroy of Nueva Espana has sent abundant reenforcements this
year, with three hundred thousand pesos in money and the materials
for the clothing of the soldiers (the best that have ever come here);
this has been of great relief for the present needs.

The captain-general of the artillery claims that he can issue
warrants on the treasury as well as I, because of his office. The
royal officials oppose that, as ther