, and very quickly. Thus, if your
Majesty do not show them the favor of protecting and replenishing
so necessary and good ministers, they will be obliged to leave many
missions, to the detriment of souls, and of the service of God and
your Majesty--whom it has cost so much from your royal patrimony to
set this flourishing and extensive Christian church in its present
condition. The propagation of Christianity here is due, at least in its
greater part, to that holy order and to its sons, as you will be more
minutely informed by father Fray Diego de Robles, who is now to go as
their procurator-general and definitor, to attend the general chapter
of his order. We are acquainted with his person, and know that he came
to these islands sixteen years ago. He soon learned two languages of
the natives, and has administered in the islands some of the houses,
convents, and missions of greatest importance. His order has honored
him, and has occupied him, now in the ministry of the pulpit for the
Spaniards, now in priorates, and in other offices and dignities of
his order. In all of them he has always furnished a very excellent
example, and has attained fame and renown as a good religious and one
worthy of all credit and honor. Consequently, this cabildo petitions
your Majesty to honor him and his order, for in both things will God
our Lord be greatly pleased. [_In the margin_: "When religious are
requested, have this section brought." "Consult the memorial."]

The Recollect religious of St. Augustine are the last who came to labor
in this field; and for that reason the most toilsome, laborious, and
dangerous part has fallen to their share, as they have been unable to
have their missions and houses together, or in contiguous provinces,
like the other orders; but their convents are separated in different
islands, very far one from another. Although they are the last, we
assure your Majesty that in point of work, zeal for the propagation
of the holy gospel, and the cultivation of souls, the other orders do
not have any advantage over them. Well have they proved that with their
blood; for about three years ago, when the province of Caraga revolted,
the rebels killed seven religious. However, by the grace of God, those
rebels have been reduced again, and punished by the excellent efforts
of Captain Juan de Chaves, one of the best soldiers, and one of the
men of best judgment that your Majesty has in these islands. It will
be of very gre