ominicans have also built a
hospital for the Chinese; it is supported by alms, partly contributed
by "Sangley" infidels; and its physician is a converted Chinese
who devotes himself to its service. This institution has won much
renown and commendation in China. Salazar asks that the king grant
it some aid, and that he confirm a reward given by the governor to
the two Christian Chinese who aided the mission to China. Another
letter from Salazar bearing the same date (June 24) recounts many
things concerning affairs in the islands. He protests against the
royal orders to increase the rate of tribute paid by the Indians,
saying that the king has been misinformed regarding their ability
to pay. He makes comments on the several royal decrees which have
come in this year's mail. One commands that the conquerors make
restitution for the damages inflicted by them upon the natives; but
they or their heirs are tardy in paying the amounts levied for this
purpose, and meanwhile the Indians live in great poverty and want. The
bishop's heart and conscience are harassed not only by this, but by
the inability of the Spaniards to pay the full amount which is due
the Indians as restitution; he therefore asks the king to settle this
matter by remitting part of the amounts thus required. Salazar defends
himself for having encouraged the Indian slaves (who had been freed
by royal decree) to leave their Spanish masters; and for obliging the
Chinese converts to cut off their hair. He also explains, as being
greatly exaggerated, the accusations brought against his clergy of
engaging in traffic; and promises to do all in his power to check
them. One of the decrees settles the question of precedence between
him and the Audiencia; but, as that tribunal has been suppressed,
it is now useless. Salazar takes this opportunity to defend himself
against the aspersions cast upon him in this matter, and in regard
to certain legal proceedings wherein the Audiencia had claimed that
he defied its authority. He declares that he always complied with
its decisions or commands except in a few cases, which he explains in
detail; and complains that the Audiencia has at various times usurped
his jurisdiction, of which he relates instances.

In still another letter (of the same date) the bishop thanks his
sovereign for recent kindness shown him, and for decrees favorable to
the Philippine colony. The money which the king ordered to be given
for building the cathed