The documents in this volume contain much valuable information regarding the economic condition of the colony, and its commercial relations with China and Mexico respectively.

As the Spanish settlers in the Philippines find that they are largely dependent upon China for their food, those who are wise see the necessity of encouraging and extending agriculture in the islands; but others are fired with the lust for wealth and conquest, and urge upon Felipe II a scheme for subduing China by force of arms, thus to give Spain the control of the great Oriental world, and incidentally to enrich a host of needy Spanish subjects.
In Volume V was presented the greater part of the royal decree establishing the Audiencia of the Filipinas; the document is here concluded.

The duties of certain subordinate officials of that tribunal--commissioners of examination, jail-wardens, and interpreters--are carefully prescribed.

Such commissioners are forbidden to play games of chance, except for articles of food ready to be eaten.

Prisoners in jail shall not be allowed to gamble, except for food.