[Most of the third chapter is concerned with affairs in Japan. A short description of that country is followed by the efforts of the Recollects to gain entrance to its inhospitable shores in 1623. Fired by the news of the persecution waged against the Christians, two fathers, Francisco de Jesus and Vincente de San Antonio, disguised as merchants, set out from Manila to preach the gospel to the Japanese. But many misfortunes overtake them: their boat, old and weak, opens at the bow and compels them to put in at the island of Babuyanes; shortly after setting sail once more, a fierce storm drives them to the Chinese coast, whence they narrowly escape shipwreck and then death at the hands of the people, who prove hostile. However, forty days after leaving Babuyanes, they reach Japan, on June 20. Shortly begins their journey toward Nangasaqui, which they reach October 14, 1623, noting Japanese customs on the way. There it is reported that disguised priests are in the city, and an edict published by the emperor banishes all the Spaniards from the country. Both the fathers, however, escape the banishment. A section on the life of Father Juan de la Madre de Dios, a noted laborer in the missions of Mindanao, and who was buried at the fort of Caragha, follows; and the chapter closes with a reference to affairs at large connected with the order, and the obtaining of certain papal decrees.] Chapter Fourth _The first provincial chapter is celebrated in Filipinas in the convent of Manila; and in España the first intermediate general chapter of Portillo. Certain servants of God finish their lives happily._ § I _Election of the first provincial of Filipinas, at the convocation of the first chapter of that province Year 1624_