Within a very short time he gained as far as the crest of the hill, where the stout enclosure and works of the enemy were.  And if, as he himself fought, there had been others to assist him, he would have entered the place and captured the king and all his household and chiefs.  On the part of our Spaniards and Indians the necessary spirit was not exerted.  The enemy held the stronghold sufficiently well in their defense, and with the advantage of location; and did considerable damage to our men with their artillery, spears, and other missile weapons.  On that account it was deemed better to withdraw the men from the hill and to abandon the undertaking for the time, and to employ the army in burning the villages and leveling the fields round about.  In doing that there were many frays with the enemy, and many of the people were killed, so that it is thought that they are severely punished.  The weather did not allow the enterprise to be carried to a more satisfactory conclusion.

The fleet went from that place to the island of Mindanao, which is one of the largest islands of this archipelago, while its king is one of the most powerful enemies that these natives have had.  Just now he is friendly, and the peace was confirmed with the coming of the master-of-camp, so that I trust that it will last for some years.  I have increased the pay of the officers and private soldiers who distinguished themselves on that occasion, while I am trying to reduce that of those who did not, so that it may serve as a warning. [In the margin:  “When we learn the resolution which he has taken, let report of this be made to his Majesty.”]

Reduction of the Cagayan Indians

Cagayan affairs are in better condition than formerly.  Some Indians have already been reduced to the obedience of your Majesty, and the others are being pressed to render it.  I hope for a good result.  May our Lord give the outcome which He knows to be most desirable.  May He preserve the Catholic and royal person of your Majesty, with increase of kingdoms and states, as we your vassals desire and as Christendom needs.  Manila, July 30, 1630.  Sire, your Majesty’s humble vassal,

Don Juan Nino de Tavora

[In the margin:  “It is well.  Have a copy of this letter sent to his Majesty, so that he may be informed of everything.”]

Government touching judicial and military matters

Sire: 

After having concluded my despatch, and while awaiting that of the royal Audiencia in order to sign it (they having before communicated with me in session concerning the matters of which they were to write), I learned that the auditors had sealed the letter, and that they were sending it by a different way, as they did not wish me to see or sign it.  That is a singular innovation; but, in order to avoid greater disturbances, I undertook, while they were assembled, to tell them what evil they were doing in trying to make such an