Preface


The present volume covers the years 1597-99, and is mainly occupied
with the details of the Philippine colony's internal affairs
and development Mindanao has been conquered, but proves to be an
unprofitable possession, except that the Spanish garrison there
serves as a check on the piratical Moros, who otherwise would harry
the Pintados Islands. Japanese pirates have menaced Luzón, and the
Chinese immigration needs frequent restriction. In the colony there
is much corruption in official circles and inaction and inefficiency
in the military. The new governor relates his efforts to improve the
condition of the city and administer the affairs of the islands;
but he is accused, especially by the ecclesiastics, of immorality
and tyrannical behavior, and of general unfitness for his office. The
Indians are oppressed in various ways; and some mutinies among them
have been suppressed. Formal submission to the Spanish crown is
required from the Indians; but this proves difficult to enforce. They
need more missionaries, who are to be sent. The usual discords between
the secular and ecclesiastical authorities still exist; and the
relations between Manila and Mexico are none too cordial. Complaint
is made of the trade recently begun with the Chinese at Canton.

A letter from Antonio de Morga (June 30, 1597) notifies the king
that the treasure-ship "San Felipe" has been wrecked on the coast of
Japan, and her cargo seized by the emperor of that country; this is
a heavy blow to the Philippine colony. Franciscan missionaries have
been crucified in Japan. Morga approves the reëstablishment of the