as the Portuguese are so quarrelsome, and especially if Don Antonio,
the Prior of Crato, [3] should come here. In order to try to ascertain
the state of affairs at Maluco and at Macau, the post held by the
Portuguese in China, I have sent for this purpose to the islands of
Maluco the sub-lieutenant Francisco de Dueñas with four companions. He
is well-instructed as to what course to pursue. Likewise I sent to
Macau Father Alonso Sanchez of the Society of the Name of Jesus, a
person in whom are combined many admirable traits. [4] They are going
to try to prepare and calm the people for the time when certain news
will be had of the occurrences in Portugal. They will bring back
a report of everything which has been learned there of affairs,
even to the defeat of the Infante Don Antonio. I realize that it
is necessary to be diligent in order to effect the desired ends,
or that at least I shall be informed of the conditions there, and
the forces with which the Portuguese are supplied.

The governors who have been here have used no system in making
disbursements from the royal exchequer. They have followed the plan
of spending as they saw fit and convenient to your Majesty's royal
service. I have continued in the same way because in no other manner
would it be possible to support it or make advancement. The expenses
here are for the most part extraordinary, and of small sums, as the
royal exchequer cannot allow more owing to its limited resources,
as I have already said. For expenses of considerable sums, as those
incurred in despatching fleets for our settlements, against pirates,
and in paying the salaries of corregidors and alcaldes-mayor,
the officials ask me to request an order from your Majesty. I
have no other way of complying with the obligations of your royal
service. Will your Majesty please to have an order sent me, in order
that when I consider it convenient for your royal service, I may