At
present their trial is proceeding, in the first instance, under Don
Juan Lorenzo Olaso, master-of-camp of the army of Philipinas. Inasmuch
as the charges against them are insufficiently substantiated, there
are opinions expressed that we should overlook their acts. But,
considering that if those forty soldiers are guilty, they may infect
the presidios where they may be stationed; and since the matter is so
public, and open to the gaze of so many barbarians--especially of the
Sangleys, who are more liable [to this sin] than any other nation,
this wretched affair ought to be punished with great severity and
vigor. [_In the margin_: "His Majesty has ordered, by a decree of
the past year 635, that convict soldiers be not sent to Terrenate;
and that those who are there be removed every three years, so that
they may serve with greater comfort and good will."]
The volunteer soldiers remained in Terrenate, and more than one
hundred and forty were changed. To these was given one installment
of pay that was sent them; and it had been many years since they had
received any pay.
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