e III--who has succeeded his father on the
Spanish throne--to the archbishop of Manila (March, 1599) refers
to the latter certain complaints sent from Manila regarding some
Augustinian teaching friars.

Bishop Benavides writes (May 17, 1599) to the king, informing him of
the death of the new archbishop, and complaining of the acts of the
governor and Audiencia in sending a ship to trade with China--from
which all kinds of evils, spiritual and temporal, would result to
Macao and the Philippines.

Benavides writes to the king's secretary (May 22, 1599) urging that
a new governor be appointed for the islands; and he recommends for
that post several persons. He asks that no ships be allowed to go from
the Philippines to China, as that will ruin the Portuguese who trade
there. He complains of the undue power exercised by the bishops over
the religious orders; and that he receives so little salary that he
cannot live decently on it.

A brief statement of the religious houses established in Luzon up
to June 28, 1599, is made by Geronimo de Alcaraz, secretary of the
cathedral chapter of Manila. A long report on military affairs was sent
(July 12, 1599) by Tello to the king. He urges that annual supplies of
men and arms be sent to the Philippines from Nueva Espana, adducing
many important reasons for this. The Spanish colony is surrounded by
many and powerful heathen countries, who are hostile to the Christian
faith. The insalubrious climate and various military expeditions are
continually causing losses of men. Artillery and skilled workmen are
greatly needed; and the fortifications need repair. The government of
Nueva Espana has given little attention to the needs of the Philippine
colony. Japanese pirates have menaced Luzon, and the Chinese are
suspected of plots against the Spaniards. Light sailing-vessels are
being built for defense of the coast, since galleys cannot be used
to advantage. Mindanao is pacified, but no tribute has yet been
paid, and the country is poor. A rebellion in Cagayan has been put
down, and the leaders executed; so that region is now pacified and
secure. Dasmarinas's expedition to Camboja has proved a failure,
and he is stranded on the Chinese coast, in great need; but Tello
is unable to send him aid, and advises him to return to Manila. Aid
for the poor soldiers is urgently needed and requested. This letter
is accompanied by a report of the conquest of Mindanao and of affairs
there, and other pap