our Majesty has sufficient
force, but for the other there would be needed other and fresh forces.

The army of these islands is composed of nineteen companies. Six of
them are in garrison in this city, and one in the fort of Cavite; six
others in Terrenate; three in the island of Hermosa; one in the island
of Oton; another in that of Cibu; and another in that of Caraga. These
companies will be frequently changed, so that they may all share
alike in the work and the leisure, and so that all may become soldiers.

The castle of Manila has its usual garrison, and is in a state of
defense. The forts of Cavite guard the port where the ships are
anchored; while under its artillery the building and repair of the
ships is carried on. That fort always has one company of the army. The
fort of Zibu is important because of its distance, and because it
has a port in which the reenforcements for Terrenate are made ready;
while it confronts the insurgent Indians of Mindanao and Xolo. For that
reason its garrison has one company of volunteers [_sobresaliente_],
and one of the army. The other two forts of Oton and Caraga are kept
up for the same purpose. As I have but recently arrived, I do not
make so full a relation of them as I shall give next year.

In regard to the island of Hermosa, I shall not inform your Majesty,
until I have sufficient knowledge to do so, of what I think; for I
see that the expenses incurred by your Majesty are heavy, while the
island is of no use. On the other hand, trustworthy persons give
confident expectations of its population, growth, and utility.

The reenforcements for Terrenate are what cause most solicitude; they
are made at great risk, and at a heavy cost to your Majesty. That of
last year reached the fort with reputation, because it was carried
by a powerful ship which could withstand the Dutch, defensively
and offensively. The governor [of Terrenate], Pedro de Heredia,
has advised us that it will be expedient for your Majesty's service
that the first reenforcement be sent in such manner that it may
not be endangered, inasmuch as the enemy is making preparations to
await it with greater forces. Consequently, I am trying to have it
conveyed by two war galleons, and to have them leave at the time
considered advisable by men of experience. From now on, all the
reenforcements will carry two entire infantry companies, so that two
others may return in their place. In this way that garrison will be
chan