reasoning employed by churchmen of that time in settling questions of
public concern, and of the opinions then current regarding the laws of
war. The Dominicans mention the evil practice of head-hunting among the
hostile tribes, and declare that the latter have no right to attack, as
they have done, the peaceable tribes; on the contrary these latter have
just cause for war on the Zambales and Negrillos. To them the question
is, whether it is, in the circumstances, expedient and necessary
for the Spaniards to attack these ferocious peoples. The fathers
consider this war as justifiable; the enemy should be destroyed,
and all who are taken captive should be enslaved for a specified
time. The Jesuits consider that the first step is to ascertain who
are guilty of inciting the outrages which the Zambales have committed
against both the Spaniards and their Indian allies--whether all of
that people, or only a few; whether their chiefs, or certain lawless
individuals. When this shall be known, then the guilty, and they
only should be punished. If the tribe as a whole, or their chiefs,
are responsible, war against them is justifiable; but it should be
waged with all possible mercy and moderation. These fathers also
recommend a limited period of enslavement for captives; and that the
women and children of the conquered people shall be removed from their
country and dispersed elsewhere in small bands--a proceeding from which
"they will receive much benefit, both spiritual and corporal." But
they protest against mutilation, except for those who shall commit
individual crimes. The Franciscan guardian renders a short opinion,
to the effect that malefactors should be punished, and highways made
safe for the Indian allies. If war be necessary to accomplish this,
then war is justifiable; but therein the innocent should be spared.

A letter of congratulation to the bishop, clergy, and people of
the Philippines is sent (March 25, 1592) by Clement VIII. On May 31,