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Terrenatans are confederated, they may attack the fort, and if the water is cut off from them the Spaniards are lost—I have resolved, with the approval of the council of war, immediately to withdraw those troops with their artillery; and that they, after burning their fort, shall go to Cebu. When it shall appear to me that a favorable opportunity occurs, they can return to La Caldera, from which, according to orders, it is necessary that punishment be inflicted on the king of Jolo for the crimes, and the murders of Spaniards committed in this land.

I am writing to the viceroy of Nueva España the information I have received of the hostile ships; I am asking for reënforcements,^[1] and that the ships which return next year must sail very cautiously, as perchance the enemy might be awaiting them at the mouth of the channel, or outside of it. Moreover, he should send the duties and freight-charges that are paid at Acapulco from the Chinese merchandise. Your Majesty has ordered that this money be returned to us, but it has never been done. If it were sent to this royal treasury, this kingdom would not suffer its present necessity and danger.

For some time past I have exercised great care and diligence in the founding of artillery,^[2] and it is being more carefully done. Four out of five medium-sized pieces, which were being founded, have resulted well, and I am very well pleased. The said