Page:The Philippine Islands, 1493-1803 (Volume 04).djvu/237

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1576-1582]
ACCOUNT OF EXPEDITIONS
233

the prudence possible, and such as I expect from you. You shall endeavor always to see that the soldiers and troops commit no depredations. If the said Indians come peaceably and with friendliness, you shall receive from them what they offer, as above stated. And you shall give testimony, before a notary appointed by yourself as to the way in which the natives of those regions place themselves under the obedience of his Majesty—by their own wish, or by act of war, if they commence it; so that, as far as you are concerned, you may have permanent and just authority to compel them to obey and pay tribute. In this matter you must exercise care and diligence, for it is an affair which needs accuracy, so that the land may be allotted according to the instructions of his Majesty. And in such case you shall agree with the natives upon the season when the Spaniards shall return thither next year; and tell them that they shall come here freely, if they wish, for intercourse and trade with us.

You shall bring in writing a memorandum of the times of harvest and the products of the land; the gold-mines and places where gold is washed; the number of inhabitants, their settlements and customs; whether that river yields cinnamon, and how it should be treated in order to make it good.

Item: You shall obtain information regarding the islands of Limboton[1] and Celebes, the course thither, their products, and bring me a clear statement thereof.

Item: You shall order that no Indian be sold outside the island, representing to them how cruel it is

  1. Probably referring to the island now known as Boeton or Butung, lying southeast of Celebes.