a governor or captain-general, nor is there any reason for his Majesty
to go to such expense from the royal exchequer only to have it lost.

I have tried to make arrangements with the Sangleys here for them to
bring me a quantity of quicksilver, [11] according to your Lordship's
orders; but for some time past they have been carrying it to the
Japanese; in that country there are many silver mines, where they
receive a good price for it. On this account the quicksilver has
increased in value, and they are so shrewd merchants that they will
not believe that this kind of traffic is desired. I shall proceed with
them gradually, until it can be seen whether they will give it at the
price which your Lordship has fixed. I shall advise your illustrious
Lordship of the result thereof.

I appreciate greatly the favor which your illustrious Lordship has
done me, by the favorable and prompt despatch of these ships. I kiss
your Lordship's hands a thousand times and everyone here does the
same, as I have informed them of the difficulty of the task which your
Lordship has so easily accomplished. Although I have tried to despatch
the ships here with all haste, I am informed by sailors who understand
the matter that it is not safe to send them out until the twentieth or
twenty-fifth of June. The weather is not settled until then, and they
usually put into a harbor during bad weather. Nevertheless, henceforth
I will have them sail from here in the middle of June, in order that
there shall not be the inconveniences to which your Lordship refers.

Although much merchandise has come from China this year, little has
been sold for lack of reals, and the Indians hid and kept the goods
until now. At the news of the arrival of the ships, and the knowledge
that they bring considerable money, they have taken courage and have
rejoiced exceedingly. In order that these Indians may increase their
trade to any extent, it is necessary that money be sent in sufficient
amount and at regular intervals.

Your illustrious Lordship commands me to observe the orders given to
Francisco Gali about the discovery of the route from these ports toward
Nueva Espana. I will keep your Lordship's commands to the letter,
and will try to advise you soon, although the ship "San Juan" is of no
use, as it is worm-eaten and old. I shall have carpenters examine it,
and if it will not serve, I shall have them inspect the ships which
I have here, to see if any are fit, and t