colony. Japanese pirates have menaced Luzón, and the Chinese are
suspected of plots against the Spaniards. Light sailing-vessels are
being built for defense of the coast, since galleys cannot be used
to advantage. Mindanao is pacified, but no tribute has yet been
paid, and the country is poor. A rebellion in Cagayan has been put
down, and the leaders executed; so that region is now pacified and
secure. Dasmariñas's expedition to Camboja has proved a failure,
and he is stranded on the Chinese coast, in great need; but Tello
is unable to send him aid, and advises him to return to Manila. Aid
for the poor soldiers is urgently needed and requested. This letter
is accompanied by a report of the conquest of Mindanao and of affairs
there, and other papers. Mindanao is a source of little profit; but it
is necessary to keep that island in subjection, in order to protect
the Pintados natives. Another paper gives a history of affairs in
Camboja, the relations of the Philippine colony with that country,
and the failure of Dasmariñas's expedition thither. At the end of
the document are depositions (dated in 1593, and apparently copied
from the official records of the colony) to show that the conquest
of Champa is justifiable, as its king is a pirate and tyrant, and a
man of evil life, and robs and kills Christians on the high seas.

In another letter of the same date (July 12) Tello makes a general
report of affairs in the islands. In matters of religion, there is
need for more ministers of the gospel. Two bishops have arrived in
the islands, and are in charge of their dioceses. The hospitals have
been aided; that for the Spaniards has been placed in charge of the
Confraternity of La Misericordia, and that for the natives is under
the king's authority. The seminary for girls (Santa Potenciana) is
in good condition, and doing excellent work. It should be under the
charge of professed nuns, and its income ought to be increased; the