treasury, and the
country being so impoverished by the previous fires and the loss of
the ship, they would draw from the money of intestates held for heirs
[_caxa de difuntos_], of which there was about ten or twelve thousand
pesos, and thus begin the work. They contracted with the Chinese to
bring copper, saltpeter, and other materials. The casting of artillery
is commencing now, and the securing of powder and ammunition; for if
his Majesty should not choose to take up this enterprise, nothing will
be lost by this, and it will suffice the Chinese that the duties were
put at three per cent on whatever materials they bring for implements
and munitions of war, and supplies needed here.

Second: A ship will be sent to Malaca to bring the tin and saltpeter
needed in addition to that procured in China and powder, and a number
of slaves to aid in the foundry work and other labors.

Third: The five thousand Visayan Indians of these islands will be
brought together, and some good troops with the necessary arms.

Fourth: In whatever port of the islands the fleet is to enter, there
will be ample accommodations, and full supplies for their reception;
and, if they come to Cagayan, there are several advantages. First:
they will come directly from Espana, without danger from islands,
shoals, or the like. Second: the river has a good bar and four bracas
of water and more, at low tide. Third: it is on the China side, a two
days' sail distant. Fourth: it is nearest Xapon, Hermosa Island, and
Lequios. Fifth: between there and China there are so many islands that
the trip can be made in boats, and a close and quick communication
can be kept up, and it is easy to repair any accident. Sixth:
there are thereabout several islands, called the Babuyanes, where
there are swine, goats, and fowl in abundance, and considerable
rice. Seventh: there is in the land great store of swine and fowl,
and excellent hunting of buffalo and deer, which are so common that
two thousand large casks [_pipas_] of meat can be brought down in a
few days. Eighth: warehouses can and will be built there sufficient
to hold a hundred thousand fanegas of rice, which is the staple food
of this country. Ninth: there is great abundance of fish, as healthful
as meat. Tenth: the wine needed will be brought there in great plenty,
being palm wine, and very good. And from China can be brought what is
called _manderin_, which is very good and cheap, and is much drunk in
the isl