se forts, but also with other things of importance that
your Majesty has in these parts. But I considered the above facts,
and his few years as captain, although he has spent many in service;
and, on account of his popularity and the excellent proofs of his
integrity and valor (as your Majesty can learn from the soldiers of
Flandes who know him), I am not sorry--although I would be glad to
have him in Terrenate--to detain him here, as he is one whom I value
most highly. He has aided me in all that I am doing in your Majesty's
service, and in the fulfilment of the duties of my office--which he
aids in the building of ships and in the repair and equipment of
them, in all the works and the despatch of ships that are carried
on at the point of Cavite, and in whatever else arises, very much to
my satisfaction and to that of all. That is not inconsiderable, and
I assure your Majesty of this on account of my obligations to your
royal service, and to inform you of those who aid in it, rather than
through my goodwill and affection for this gentleman, although these
are great. His mode of procedure constrains me to it. Although I have
relatives here, I shall not inform your Majesty of them, as long as
they do not merit my doing so by their time and experience here.

If a governor is to be sent for Terrenate, your Majesty will not
forget those persons whom I have proposed for that post. They are
Captains Don Diego de Salcedo, Joan Goncales Corrilla y Santander,
who were among the men of best judgment in Flandes when I was there,
and of whom I would rejoice to hear news. But if, in another man,
to such qualities were united some experience as a sailor, or a taste
for naval affairs, he would not be worse for that; for very gallant
deeds might he done among those islands.

[_Marginal note_: "The points mentioned in this section are reduced
to two. First, you will already have learned about the appointment of
Pedro de Heredia as governor of Terrenate. It is thought that you will
be well satisfied with his person, and that he will suitably conduct
the public service. Concerning the other persons of whom you advise
me, and especially of Captain Perez Franco, I am informed of his good
qualities. So long as nothing offers here in which to occupy him,
you shall take charge of his person, and shall employ him for what
you think him suitable, for the reputation of generals consists in
their efficient choice of persons, giving to each office