to conquer and settle with Spaniards one of the Maluco Islands, namely
the best and chiefest, by name Terrenate, settled by the natives,
and by Moros, Turks, and Javanese, who have been brought there for
its security and protection--and where the doctrine of Mahoma holds
sway. This would be of very great advantage to the salvation of those
souls, and would prevent the inhabitants from leaving there to preach
the doctrine of Mahoma in the surrounding islands, as he is informed
they are doing in the island of Mindanao, which is under your Majesty's
dominion and protection. In addition, your Majesty's royal exchequer
would gain greatly, for your Majesty would be master of all the cloves
that are taken to Persia, and to many parts of the world, besides
those which come to España by way of Portuguese Yndia. From there
a great quantity of the spices in that island might be exported to
Nueva España, and thence to this kingdom in quicker time and at less
cost than are required by way of Eastern Yndia and Lisboa--although
the trade and commerce by way of Yndia ought not to cease, as that
would not be advantageous to your Majesty's service.

6. _Item_: He declares that, in his opinion, it would be very
undesirable for the Japanese tyrant to put into execution his
proposed expedition to Manila, of which he insolently wrote to your
Majesty's governor in that city; and this matter might be entrusted
to Governor Gomez Perez Dasmariñas, as he is a very valorous and
resolute soldier. He by his valor and prudence will succeed in the
undertaking; and had Doctor Santiago de Vera, your Majesty's governor,
sent, years ago, a captain of the energy, valor, and mettle of the
present governor, that island and those near by would be gained and
pacified, to the great gain of your Majesty's royal exchequer.

7. _Item_: He declares that, in order to effect the above, it will