was in great danger. He fought in person with so
great valor that, although run through with a spear, he attacked and
defeated his opponent, laying him dead at his feet. Few of our men
aided him, and many of them retreated immediately, thus allowing
the enemy to capture from us twenty firearms, with fuses, powder,
and balls. That was a great loss, and it is certain that we have not
hitherto had a greater. And if any loss has occurred, it has been
due to the neglect and confidence of the Spaniard.

Today two Bassilan Indians came down from the hill to ask for mercy,
and for passage to their own country. They say that they are sent by
the datos in the stronghold who came from that island of Bassila or
Taquima; and that, if permission and pardon were given to them by the
_pari_ [_i.e._, Corcuera], one hundred and thirty of them would come
down in the morning. We regard this as a trick of that Moro; and,
although it may be as they say, we are taking precautions, and are
watching for whatever may happen. It they should come, they will be
well received; and that will not be a bad beginning to induce others to
come from the hill. I shall advise your Reverence of such event on the
first occasion. What we know that they are suffering within [the fort]
is the disease of smallpox and discharges of blood, together with great
famine; because we have surrounded the entire hill with ditches and
stockades, set with sharp stakes, which run around it for more than
one and one-half leguas, and within musket-shot [of their fort] is a
sentry-post [_garita_] or tower in which three men and three Bantayas
are staying. By that means the enemy cannot enter or go out without
being seen; and, when they do that, they are given such a bombardment
that scarcely does any one dare to go outside of their walls. The
hill is a beautiful sight, and if it were enjoying holy peace instead
of war, it would be no small matter of entertainment and recreation
to survey the landscape at times. The Moro does not like to see us,
and is looking at us continually from his stronghold and yelling and
scoffing at us--as they say sometimes that the Spaniards are chickens;
again, that they are sibabuyes; [21] and again, that they will come
to set fire to us all, and kill us. The Moro is a great rascal and
buffoon. I trust in God that in a little while He will be ready for
our thanksgivings [for the defeat of the Moros]. Will your Reverence
urge His servants to aid us wi