We are very happy at the good news that has arrived here of the favor that your Majesty concedes, to all of us who live in this country, of sending us reenforcements of soldiers and ships by the Cape of Buena Esperanza; and I more happy than I could express, because of my great desire for it and my great regret over its lack, in order to demonstrate effectively the desire that I have always had, and have, of employing myself in your Majesty's service.

May His Divine Majesty so well manage it that, if life does not fail me, I shall, with the protection of God, endeavor to employ it to my very utmost--without my promising more at greater length, for we can promise much from the hands of His Divine Majesty, but from our own but little.

In order that the successful end of such intents may be better attained, at the best time, without there being any lack, I petition your Majesty to the utmost of my ability that the sending of this help, together with troops, be continued for some years--by way of Panama, or by whatever way your Majesty may please--so that the forces which might be assembled with such a fleet as is above mentioned might not be weakened so soon because of the many men that die here; and that the provision of money be in proportion to the men, and for the same time.

I trust that, with the above, the cost and trouble incurred will succeed, without my endeavoring to excuse myself from it, or failing to economize and well administer the revenues as well as other things.

The results certify it; for, with less money than has entered the royal treasury for many years, I have accomplished so many works, and have built or bought, in two years only, as many boats, provisions, and war stores as was done during many years in the past, and at a much less cost.