pulpit for the Spaniards, now in priorates, and in other offices and dignities of his order.  In all of them he has always furnished a very excellent example, and has attained fame and renown as a good religious and one worthy of all credit and honor.  Consequently, this cabildo petitions your Majesty to honor him and his order, for in both things will God our Lord be greatly pleased. [In the margin:  “When religious are requested, have this section brought.”  “Consult the memorial.”]

The Recollect religious of St. Augustine are the last who came to labor in this field; and for that reason the most toilsome, laborious, and dangerous part has fallen to their share, as they have been unable to have their missions and houses together, or in contiguous provinces, like the other orders; but their convents are separated in different islands, very far one from another.  Although they are the last, we assure your Majesty that in point of work, zeal for the propagation of the holy gospel, and the cultivation of souls, the other orders do not have any advantage over them.  Well have they proved that with their blood; for about three years ago, when the province of Caraga revolted, the rebels killed seven religious.  However, by the grace of God, those rebels have been reduced again, and punished by the excellent efforts of Captain Juan de Chaves, one of the best soldiers, and one of the men of best judgment that your Majesty has in these islands.  It will be of very great service to God and your Majesty to have religious sent to the said fathers, for many years have passed since a single religious has come to them, and it is right to encourage and aid so good workers, [In the margin:  “When this order shall petition for religious, let this section be brought.”]

The master-of-camp, Don Lorenco de Olasso, who exercises the office of captain-general because of the death of Governor Don Juan Nino de Tavora this year, has carried himself with prudence, peace, and tranquillity.  For in this office and in that of master-of-camp, which he holds by right of appointment, he has shown his good judgment, especially in his care and vigilance in fortifying the city and in attending to all that concerns the obligation of his office, and welfare of this city, and the service of your Majesty. [In the margin:  “Consult the memorial.”]

As this noble and loyal city had so great need for sending a suitable person as its procurator to that royal court, it made choice of the person of General Don Diego de Arqueta Minchaca.  It was a choice so prudent and so well considered, that in quality, services of his forbears and his own, capacity, prudence, experience, and other qualities necessary for such action, there is not his equal in this city.  For besides the said qualifications and services (which will be apparent by his papers), considering the chief thing, namely, your Majesty’s service and the welfare of this community, he is a person so capable