The wheat used by the inhabitants comes from China, because these islands do not grow it. Consequently, the common sustenance is rice. Formerly, as a policy of good government, the past governors assigned a place where the bread ovens were gathered together, and prohibited the baking of bread in any other place. In order to make this bread near at hand, the city made a contract with Captain Andres Fernandez de Puebla, so that it might be made on a site belonging to him--with the provision that he, spending in the building what then seemed sufficient, should enjoy half of the income of the said ovens, while the other half should remain for the city. All the governors have confirmed this, as it appeared of utility to the community. This is what I have to inform you of, according to your Majesty's orders in your royal decree. The post of protector of the Sangleys is vacant, as your Majesty has ordered that account be given of it, and that six suitable persons be proposed for it, who must be lawyers. It is impossible to find so many in this community, because of the few inhabitants here; and some do not care for the said post of protector on these terms. I propose to your Majesty the person of Captain Matheo de Heredia, who, besides having served for many years in various exercises, is one of the best lawyers in Philipinas. The royal Audiencia entrusts business of importance to him, and he possesses ability and merits for things of greater worth, and this favor will be well bestowed on him. The viceroy of Nueva Espana has sent abundant reenforcements this year, with three hundred thousand pesos in money and the materials for the clothing of the soldiers (the best that have ever come here); this has been of great relief for the present needs. The captain-general of the artillery claims that he can issue warrants on the treasury as well as I, because of his office. The royal officials oppose that, as there is no money assigned for it, and they are not subordinate to any other but the governor, and that was not done in the time of his predecessor. It will be fitting for your Majesty to declare what is your pleasure, considering the fact that this treasury is poor, and that it is troublesome to have many giving warrants on it. May God preserve the royal person of your Majesty, as is needful to us your vassals. Manila, August 10, 1634. _Don Juan Cereso Salamanca_ _Military affairs_ Sire: