es which, as I wrote to you,
existed for that. I have heard that some reports have been made in
that royal Council against me, in regard to it, by persons who did
not understand or know the matter thoroughly. They used up much time
in writing treatises to your Majesty; and lest, perchance, I did not
give entire satisfaction by what I lately wrote, the acts and messages
which were despatched in regard to the matter are herewith enclosed,
in order that the reason which caused the ships to go without register
may be seen. The goods which the officers of the ships carried were in
their own boxes, and not in a collection of boxes or bales, for they
were not allowed to embark them in that way. If any official embarked
anything, it was secretly. The penalty which was impeded (which will
be seen by the records) could have been executed in Nueva Espana. The
viceroy knew that I made strenuous efforts so that everything might
be declared. He found but a little quantity [of contraband goods],
as I understand; and matters cannot be so well regulated, that
with their risk there should not be some who venture to disobey the
orders and edicts. What is certain, Sire, is that none of my goods
were found, as certain persons tried to intimate in regard to me,
for I do not engage in such pursuits. And that is plainly seen to
be so, for I have less property than when I came to Filipinas. The
viceroy of Nueva Espana wrote me in regard to the matter with some
haughtiness; I answered him that I thought that, if perchance he had
been informed about it to my disfavor, my precautions should be seen,
and my efforts ascertained--which he did, as he will have written
to you--and finally our purpose would have been recognized, which
was your Majesty's service and the welfare of this community. May God
preserve the Catholic and royal person of your Majesty, as Christendom
needs. Manila, July 8, 1632. Sire, your Majesty's humble vassal,

_Don Juan Nino de Tavora_

[_In the margin_: "This matter is reserved for the inspection or
residencia of the marquis of Cerralbo. The decree."]

[_Endorsed_: "Read and decreed September 15, 1633."]

II

_Military affairs_

Sire:

I am duly grateful that your Majesty ordered the letters which I
wrote from here in the years 28 and 29 to be examined in that your
Council of War of the Yndias. Your Majesty has answered them, and has
done me honor in accordance with your usual custom toward those who