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 sailors
and carpenters are needed, who should be paid in the same way. More
artillery is needed, also to be furnished by royal aid. The Chinese
trade is continually increasing. The city of Manila is being fast
rebuilt, and in stone. But the land is unhealthful and the soldiers
die fast, so that the islands have few men for their defense; and
again the king is earnestly entreated to order that men and supplies
be sent at once from Nueva España. The new fort has been injured by
earthquakes, but Vera is building it more strongly. He complains that
the friars have neglected his commands to learn the Chinese language
and instruct the Chinese who live on the islands. The Dominicans alone
have entered this field; they have achieved great results, and have
now among the Chinese "a village of Christians." Many more would be
converted, if it were not for the bishop's order that the long hair