governor has begun to do, especially in his cleansing the
country of so many people that occupy it, with whom there is very
little security. Especially is that true of the Japanese, who are
seditious and arrogant, with whom the enemy hold so intimate trade
and intercourse in their own country. For these reasons we keep
strict and careful watch over them, since the suspicions conceived
of them have been often verified. The number of Sangleys whom it is
advisable to allow to remain in this city is also being lessened,
and only those sufficient for its service are left. By that means,
I trust in our Lord that we can withstand our enemies' designs. Those
designs, as we have heard, are to besiege this city, or the forts of
Terrenate, or to establish themselves in Otton in your Majesty's fort
on the point of Ylo Ylo. I trust in His Divine Majesty that they will
not succeed in their attempt, for, although we have so few forces,
we will resist to the utmost until your Majesty shall furnish those
forces advisable for greater results in your royal service.

All of these things, although so considerable, could be endured, if
the royal treasury had the sum requisite for affairs so difficult. But
I can assure your Majesty with entire truth that the need of your
treasury is so pressing now that it is incomparable. Not less so is
the barrenness of this country, which was formerly and usually the
last resource. Consequently there is so universal misery that no
words could exaggerate it to your Majesty.

During the month of last April occurred a somewhat sharp encounter
between Governor Don Alonso Fajardo and Auditor Don Alvaro de Mesa y
Lugo, on going into the assembly hall--in which, according to report,
the auditor was somewhat lavish of words. For that reason the governor
had him arrested and imprisoned in the cabildo's halls, where he was
kept a few days, until he left his prison and retired into the convent
of St. Dominic of this city, where he still is--as your Majesty will
learn more fully by the judicial reports that were sent you in regard
to this matter, and to which I refer.

All these exhibitions of temper and anger result from what I have
pointed out to your Majesty in many other letters. They will exist
as long as there is an Audiencia and auditors in this city. I base
this assertion on the arguments and reasons that my experience
during the time of my residence in these islands has shown me. Again
referring to several