The master-of-camp disembarked his entire force immediately, together with four pieces of artillery, leaving the mouth of the river blockaded with all his vessels, some of which he had ordered to extend themselves so that no one might enter or go out, or warn the pirate of their arrival.

He ordered others of the vessels to reconnoiter the enemy's fleet and his fortifications.

He charged them especially to endeavor not to be seen, for this was essential to the success of the undertaking.

The captains did as they were ordered, finding the pirate as free from anxiety of any danger there, as the city of Manila had been at his attack.

This security resulted from his having heard that, although they were discussing in China the question of attacking him, this could not be done soon, for they could not know or be perfectly sure of his whereabouts; and from his certain knowledge that the Spaniards of the Felipinas had no vessels, for, as we have said above, they had been burned, and they had received so much damage that they would endeavor rather to recover from their past ill-treatment, than to avenge injuries.