On the side fronting the sea is a handsome beach, extending two leagues to the port of Cavite, where lie the vessels of the Nueva Spana line.

Where the river enters the sea, the land forms a point, upon which is built a very small and dilapidated wooden fort.

Neither on the seacoast nor in any other part was there any defense.

On this account, in view of our danger, I resolved to set about fortifying the city, although the poverty of the city and of your royal treasury could not assist me.

I have constructed a stone tower on the said beach, near the city; and lower down, where it seemed more necessary, I am constructing a very strong and handsome fort, the plan of which accompanies this letter.