and a considerable number of other people who are in the service of
the hospital. So small is the income, sacred Majesty, and so many are
the poor who come for help, that often we suffer great hardships; for
it is the glory of this hospital not only to belong to your Majesty,
but also not to turn away any one who comes to it to be treated.

For this reason we religious who are in this hospital, as servants of
the poor who are cared for in it, entreat your royal Majesty with the
utmost humility that you will grant us aid so that we can treat these
poor people with somewhat more convenience; and we especially entreat
your royal Majesty that you will favor us by commanding that the said
four toneladas of freight be continued to us, as we are accustomed
to ship the goods free of customs duties or any other dues, whether
in this city of Manila or in Nueva España, or in any other parts of
your Majesty's realms where your ships enter.

In this your royal Majesty will render a great service to God our
Lord; and may He preserve for us your royal Majesty, with increase
of His holy grace, and life and prosperity, as your loyal servants
desire. At Manila, July 3, 1599. Your royal Majesty's humble servant,

_Domingo de Santiago_.

[_Endorsed_: "Manila; to his Majesty; Domingo de Santiago, for the
hospital of Santa Ana at Manilla. Referred by his Majesty, who directs
that the archbishop and governor shall send information regarding
the treatment of the sick in this hospital, and whether its income
is sufficient for its needs. They shall also ascertain how its funds
are disbursed, and if the accounts are audited; and if anything is
lacking that is absolutely necessary, let them advise what and how