have master-founders of cannon sent from Espana.
I am also having some galliots and fragatas built, so that I may be
supplied with vessels for both present and future emergencies.
This kingdom was thrown into great confusion by a decree in which
your Majesty ordered the liberation of all Indian slaves held by
Spaniards. This affair has caused me much anxiety; for, if it should
be immediately complied with, and put into execution without allowing
any term of grace, this kingdom would be placed in a sad state for
many good and very forcible reasons. Of these, and of the measures
which I took in regard to this, your Majesty will be informed at
greater length. Accordingly, I refer you to that report, and beseech
your Majesty that the decree be greatly amended, since this is a very
important matter.
By the death of Salvador de Aldave, who served as treasurer of your
royal estate, in place of the master-of-camp, Guido de Lavecares
(the proprietary holder, who died), I appointed to the said office
Don Antonio Jufre, my step-son. He came with me to serve your Majesty
in these islands, and I consider that he possesses the necessary
qualifications for the requirements of the office. He has fulfilled
its duties thus far; and now he has gone to the settlement of the city
of Segovia, as treasurer and purveyor of the fleet. I beseech your
Majesty to have the goodness to ratify his appointment to said office.
In my instructions your Majesty granted me the favor and permission to
obtain a repartimiento of Indians from each of the new settlements--to
be in all three repartimientos. As, to enjoy this favor, I must live
for a longer time than is assured by my poor state of health, I beg
your Majesty kindly to allow me to take one of the repartimientos
from one of the towns which is already discovered and settled, and
which is at present unoccupied; this is only that I may serve your
Majesty with more strength. May our Lord guard your Catholic royal
Majesty with increase of kingdoms and seignories, as we your servants
desire. Manila, June 16, 1582. Royal Catholic Majesty, the most humble
servant of your Majesty, who kisses the royal feet and hands.
_Don Gonzalo Ronquillo de Penalosa_
RELACION DE LAS YSLAS FILIPINAS POR MIGUEL DE LOARCA
_Tratado de las yslas Philipinas en qe_ se Contiene todas las yslas y
poblacones qe estan Reducidas Al seruicio de la magd Real del Rey Don
phelippe nro senor y las poblacones qe estan
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