four years.

By another decree of the same date, like commands were given; and that
the merchandise brought to Nueva España be either consumed there or
sent to España.

Nevertheless, this merchandise is taken to Piru under pretense of being
that of Castilla. Hence arise many difficulties, and the commerce
of España with Piru and Tierra Firme is ceasing, and merchandise
from España is not sent to Piru. If this be not checked within a few
years, it is agreed by all that the trade of España in merchandise
with Tierra Firme, Piru, and Nueva España will cease.


Fourth Point

_The ships which must be used in the trade, to whom they shall belong,
and what has been permitted by the viceroys._

By the decree of January 11, 93, it is permitted that for this trade
two ships, each of no more than three hundred toneladas, may sail
annually from Nueva España to China. They may bring in return the
property which is to come, and no ships belonging to private persons
shall be sent. There shall be three ships, in order that one may remain
at the port of Acapulco for repairs. They will sail at the expense of
his Majesty, and the cost will be paid by their freight-charges and
the cargoes that they carry. This order was altered by the viceroy,
the administration of two ships having been given to private persons in
99, for this trade, with the power of appointing the officers thereof,
with salary, and license to take freight, as will be stated later