Thus the Spaniards' old security would remain, and they would be held in greater estimation by the natives near them, who knew them; and would even attain the friendship of the king of China, against whom Limahon was a traitor, and whom he had offended.

This resolve they set about executing immediately, as such an undertaking required.

Meanwhile they heard, as certain, that the pirate was stationed on the Pangasinan River, where he had made a strong settlement.

Upon obtaining this news--which was most agreeable to the Spaniards--the governor summoned all the people dwelling thereabout, ordering them to come to the city where he resided.

At this same time, he sent word to all the encomenderos or seigniors of the villages of those islands called Pintados, ordering them to assemble at the same place with as many ships and men as possible, both Spaniards and natives.