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the Audiencia also, as their envoy to the home government. Their
dissensions are now all settled, and some matters which caused these
disagreements are referred to the king for his decision. They notify
him of certain changes which they have made in the customs tariff of
the islands, especially on the Chinese trade; it appears therefrom
that the economic dependence of the Philippines on China is very
close, especially in the matter of supplying food and cattle. Certain
extension of authority which had been granted to the bishop is asked by
the Audiencia for him. The participation of the Spaniards in the rich
Chinese trade has aroused the jealousy of the Portuguese in India,
who are endeavoring to shut out the Castilians from that country;
the king is asked to take such measures as he deems best in this
matter. Complaint is made that a certain Mexican officer has gone,
in disobedience to his orders, to China, apparently to trade.

Pedro de Rojas, a member of the Audiencia, also writes (June 30) in
commendation of Sanchez. He relates the dissensions in the Audiencia
over the appointments to offices, and asks for royal action which
shall settle this difficulty. He seconds the request made in other
letters for the removal of the Audiencia, provided a capable and
honest man be selected for governor, and gives advice regarding
the conduct of colonial affairs. He complains of the injury to the
interests of the colony which results from the Chinese trade in silks
and other luxuries, and advises that it be stopped; then the Chinese
will bring cattle, food, and other supplies, to the advantage of
the Spaniards. The latter have devoted themselves to commerce; and,
as most of them are soldiers, they neglect their military duties,
lose their courage, and have become vicious and demoralized. Rojas
urges that they be restrained from engaging in traffic, leaving the
islands, or transferring their encomiendas to the crown. A seminary
for girls should be established at Manila, and young women from
Spain should be encouraged and aided to come to the islands. The
gold obtained in the Philippines should be sent to Mexico, and a
specified sum of money, in coin, should be sent thence to the islands
each year. Rojas recommends that Bishop Salazar be made governor,
and praises his qualifications for that office; next to the bishop,
the auditor Ayala would be most suitable.

Juan Moron, a military officer, sends (June 30) a report of his
ex