faloes;
and there are many birds, such as hens, ducks of many varieties, the
smaller birds, and many others. There is a river where fish abound
in great plenty, especially swordfish, and many black shellfish,
the latter being gathered at the river. There is much fine scenery
in this province, and it contains many springs and rivers of fresh,
clear water, on account of which there is always abundance of excellent
water in this province. Near the boundaries of the province are two
volcanoes of great size and remarkable beauty--one of fire, and the
other of water. [8] According to the report of the natives who have
climbed up to the volcano of water, there are many royal eagles there,
besides much white honey and wax, and fruits of various kinds.

The entire population of this province is in encomiendas, separated
two or three leagues, or even a less distance, from one another;
and all these encomiendas are contained within thirty leagues.

Besides this island of Luzon, there are many other inhabited islands,
situated close to it, within a circuit of one hundred leagues. There
are two more Spanish colonies--one the city of Nonbre de Jesus,
in Cebu; and the other the town of Arevalo, [9] in Oton.

_Concerning Cubu_

The city of Cubu has thirty citizens, among whom are quartered twenty
soldiers. These citizens are all encomenderos, and all married to
either Spanish or Indian women. Their encomiendas are located among
the neighboring islands, there being thirty-two encomiendas with
eighteen thousand tributarios. Here his Majesty possesses some few
little hamlets, in which but little tribute is collected, and the
natives of the city--who by special privilege pay no tribute, because
from the very first they received the Spaniards in a friendly manner,
furnishing the camp with provisions, and showing themselves loyal
on many occasions. This city has a church, with one vicar; and one
Augustinian monastery, containing three or four religious. In all
those encomiendas there is no other instruction. Three more priests
are necessary.

This city has a municipal council and alcaldes; and has a fortress
provided with three or four large pieces of artillery, and some
small ones, such as falcons and small culverins; and having its own
governor. This fort is located opposite Burney, the Malucos and
Mindanaos, and other infidel islands and kingdoms. This city has
one alcalde-mayor.

_The town of Arevalo_

The town of Arevalo i