they strive to attain by their doctrine, lives, and examples.

It is very necessary that the friars who are sent to these islands come
directly from España, and that they have not remained any length of
time in Nueva España. As that land is so prosperous and wealthy, and
the affairs and teaching of the Indians have attained such progress,
they become much discouraged in this country, and try to return to
New Spain or go elsewhere.

As a result of this feeling, there set out in April of this year the
custodian of the order of St. Francis, with seven other friars of
this city. They sailed without my approbation in a fragata which had
been secretly made ready; and went to Macau, a town in China which is
inhabited by Portuguese. The ships from India belonging to Portugal
stop there for trade, as well as those going to Japan. It seemed to me
that God would not sanction their departure, nor would your Majesty be
pleased to have them leave this country, where there are so many native
Christians and where religious are so needed, since they had been sent
hither at your Majesty's expense, to discharge the obligations of the
royal conscience; but without my order, and at such a time, they set
out. We even yet do not know the attitude taken by your Majesty in
regard to the affairs of Portugal. I am determined to send after them,
stop them, and prevent their voyage, although there have been and
are now serious embarrassments in the way. If your Majesty does not
approve of my plans, may it be commanded that everything be carefully
weighed and considered. Three years ago four friars of the same order
made that identical voyage without permission of the governor then
here. It is not possible to check them if their superiors do not
remedy the affair. If your Majesty should order that no Portuguese
friars come hither, it would be best for your royal service.