Page:The Philippine Islands, 1493-1803 (Volume 08).djvu/290

 convenience there is for laying ambushes and keeping the enemy busy.

What is said here of our fears of Xapon should be understood as well of the Chinese, since we have so little confidence in them.

That word be sent to Gallinato to set a price on rice, and gather as much as possible, on the account of his Majesty's tributes there.

That four fragatas be fitted up and used for nothing else than to transport rice and food, putting each fragata under command of a thoroughly trustworthy master.

That the biscuit brought by the Chinese, should be taken, and also one-half the flour brought by this Xaponese ship, in order to give it a trial, at a moderate price; and if any well-preserved tunny-fish have been brought, they should be taken, although first it should be ascertained whether they have any yewtree or other poison in them.

Item: It appears advisable that two careful regidors of this city—in order that they may secure due respect, and act in the name of the city—should go to bring twelve or fourteen thousand fanégas of rice and one thousand five hundred jars of wine, from such district or districts as they may choose, for any necessities that might arise in general—namely, in city, monasteries, and hospitals; since all are sustained by alms, and, in such times, there is no possibility that these can be supplied or provided for them from any place. For this reason it would be advisable to levy an assessment among the citizens of this city; for, although there may be no necessity therefor, it can be sold, and paid to those who should have lent or furnished the said rice and wine, and