uld accrue
from a settlement there. The king appoints Monterey as a way-station
for the Philippine vessels, and Vizcaino as the commander of the
expedition to establish it; and directs Acuna to send with him two
men from the Philippines to learn all that is necessary about the
new station, so that they may command the next galleons from Manila.

The Chinese immigration to the islands continues, the official
statement for 1606 showing that over six thousand five hundred land at
Manila in that year. On November 4 following, Felipe III sends warning
to Acuna not to allow any more of them to remain than are necessary
for the service of the community. The king also writes a letter of the
same date to the governor, commending his action in sending troops to
defend Samar from the Moros, in reducing the expenses of government,
and in various other matters; and gives directions for rebuilding
the hospital and for certain other measures.

On January 18, 1607, the request of the Jesuits for confirmation of a
grant in aid of their seminary for the Indians in Leyte is approved by
the royal council. A report is made (July 6) by the chief of artillery,
showing the number and description of pieces which are mounted on
all the fortifications at Manila--in all eighty-three pieces, of
various sizes and power. At the king's command, the Audiencia furnish
(July 11) a statement of the aim, scope, and labors of the charitable
confraternity, La Misericordia, at Manila. It has one hundred and
fifty brethren; they have established and maintained a hospital for
women and a ward therein for slaves, besides their principal labors
for the succor of the poor and needy of all classes. They provide
food and water for the poor prisoners, aid to the inmates of Santa
Potenciana, and homes for orphan boys; and assist many transient
persons. They also settle many quarrels and reclaim dissolute persons.

The question of restricting trade between the Spanish colonies is
discussed by the Council of the Indias (December 18, 1607); they think
it necessary to restrict trade to some extent, but hesitate to take
too vigorous measures. At various times (1606-07) the Council of the
Indias deliberate on the question whether religious shall be permitted
to go to Japan via the Philippines. Certain objections to this are
stated (May 30, 1606); that the Japanese suspect the Spaniards of
desiring to conquer their country; that the constant flow of Mexican
silver to Chin