length, as well as the Chinese method of reducing a large tree to
a dwarf pot-plant. Interesting particulars are given regarding the
Bisayans and Negritos who inhabit Panay, and of a petty war between
those peoples. The Jesuits have done excellent missionary work there,
in the district of Tigbauan; some particulars of this are related. One
of their number, Martin Henriquez, dies from overwork, and Chirino is
ordered to return to Manila. In June, 1595, eight more Jesuits come
with Morga; and the missions of the order are now extended into Cebú,
Leyte, and Samar. A chapter is devoted to the pious labors and death
of Father Antonio Sedeño. In 1596 a large reënforcement of Jesuits
arrives at the islands, headed by Francisco de Vera; and the work
of the order there receives new impetus. The missionaries in all
the religious orders are able to master the native languages with so
little difficulty that "it seems a gift from heaven." Chirino gives
some account of these, illustrated with specimens of three--Tagalan,
Harayan, and Visayan--with the alphabet used by the Filipinos. He
also praises the politeness, in word and act, of the Tagalos, and
gives them credit for much musical ability. A chapter is assigned to
the native alphabet and mode of writing. All, women as well as men,
write and read; and they have already learned to do so in the Spanish
language as well as in their own.

Chirino relates the progress of the Jesuit mission during the year
1596-97. The curriculum of the Manila college is enlarged, and its
church (which is described in detail) is completed. A minute account
is given of a nine days' fiesta in honor of the relics of saints which
are deposited in the church. At this time is begun the practice of
self-scourging as a voluntary penance. The Jesuit church is frequented
by the Indians in great numbers, not only on special occasions, but
throughout the year: and they display the utmost devotion, even forming