asks for enlightenment in several difficult matters connected with
the respective jurisdictions of himself and the Audiencia. This
year the Portuguese of Macao have failed to trade at Manila, and
the Chinese, although they have brought considerable merchandise,
furnish but little cloth. The expedition sent to Formosa is badly
treated by the Portuguese at Macao, of which Cerezo complains to
the king. He describes the island of Formosa, the Spanish settlement
there, the nature of the people, and the reasons why a Spanish post
was established there; he regards this enterprise as useless and
undesirable, and states that the soldiers in that island are needed
at Manila. The persecution of Christians in Japan still continues;
Cerezo doubts the supposed improvement in the shôgun's attitude
toward them, and recommends that no more religious be allowed to
go to that country. He describes his method of procedure toward the
Chinese, both resident and non-resident; he endeavors to treat them
with justice and kindness, and recommends a suitable person for the
post of their protector. Liberal aid has been sent to the islands
this year from Mexico.

In military affairs, Cerezo recommends the abandonment of Formosa
and other unnecessary forts, and the concentration of the Spanish
forces at Manila. The fort there is in fair state of defense, but the
wall of the city is in ruinous condition, and the governor is having
it repaired and strengthened. He recommends that some galleys be
maintained at Otón or Cebú, to keep the Moro pirates in awe: and that
a new commandant be sent to Ternate in place of Heredia, who has shown
himself unfitted to hold that office. A mutiny has occurred there,
which he has cruelly punished; and he is blamed for an insurrection
in Tidore which has replaced its king with another who is friendly to
the Dutch. The port of Cavite must be well maintained and provided with