The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 09 of 55 - 1593-1597 by Unknown
page 45 of 280 (16%)
page 45 of 280 (16%)
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Moreover, he says that his host told him that four or five thousand men would come in large vessels to conquer these islands, and that this number was sufficient. Only ten ships would be needed for this. He declares that, in his opinion, it would be an advisable plan for the governor to contrive to despatch a couple of Japanese vessels without telling Faranda that he would give him any present, or any fathers to accompany him. He should show signs that he wishes to detain Faranda, in order to ascertain his intention in this way; for the latter has said that his ship must leave these islands first. He asserts also that the Japanese emperor admits in his letter that the sword which he sent by means of the same Japanese, is called _guihoccan_. This is a Chinese word, which, being translated into our language, signifies: "I am sending thee that token of brotherly love. Cross the sea, so that thou mayst render submission to me." This letter _gi_, or word _gui_, signifies "love," and a token of the love which exists between brothers. This word _hoc_ signifies subjection. Finally this word _can_ signifies sea. Thus "the sword guihoccan" admits of the above explanation. He declares also that his guest told him that the ships would not come to this bay; but that the soldiers would march here by land. Miguel Onte declares that many Sangleys would buy catanas, but they did not dare, for fear lest the governor would take them away. He says the Chinese would like to sail five days ahead of the Japanese. Antonio Lopez says that the helmsmen of the ship have told him that |
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