hat they are a disgrace to religion, and are
"not fit to be entered by horses." This arises from the penuriousness
or the poverty of the encomenderos; nothing can be expected from
the natives, who are "so harassed and afflicted with public and
private undertakings that they are not able to take breath." The
bishop regards the calamities that have befallen the Spaniards as
punishments inflicted on them by God for their evil treatment of the
Indians. He recommends that many religious be sent to the islands,
who will be protectors of the natives; also that a governor be sent
who is not ruled by selfish or family interests. Salazar complains
of the harshness and severity shown by the viceroy of Nueva Espana,
especially as the latter will not allow certain Dominican friars to go
to the Philippines; and as he has injured the commerce of the islands
by his restrictive measures--especially by selling the vessel "Saint
Martin" to a Mexican merchant to be used in the Chinese trade. The
wreck of that ship at sea he regards as a punishment from heaven. He
urges that trade from Mexico to China be stopped, and that the viceroy
of Nueva Espana be ordered to send aid to the Philippines, especially
of troops and military supplies, and not to meddle with the decisions
of the Audiencia there regarding customs duties, etc. Salazar objects
to the presence of so many Chinamen in the islands.

An extract from a letter of the viceroy of India to the king (April 3,
1589) complains that some of his officers have violated the prohibition
of intercourse with China and the Philippines. He has sent officials
to Macao to quell disturbances there, and order has been given that
all Castilians there shall be sent away. He is greatly opposed to
the trade which has begun between Mexico and China, and thinks that
rigorous measures should be taken against it.

Vera writes (July 13) to the king imploring reenforcements and
supplies for the islands. Three Spaniards, among them a Franciscan
friar, have been treacherously slain by the Borneans. This proves to
be the outcome of a general conspiracy among the Filipinos, Borneans,
and other peoples to attack and drive out the Spaniards. The plotters
are detected and severely punished. Certain public offices have been
sold, account for which is rendered by the governor. He is endeavoring
to secure a small fleet of trading ships, but is obliged to ask
aid for this from the royal treasury. Not only ships, but sailor