I have written this relation with entire exactness and truth regarding all the facts that I have collected during so many years--and thus as well as was possible to me--without considering any human respects, which are what usually obscure such mirrors, in order that they might not give the light that is desirable in such an account.

I relate, then, what has occurred in Filipinas, from the time of their first discoverers; their tendency toward, advancement; and the mildest and most advisable measures for the attainment of admirable ends.

I trust, through God our Lord, that, if this child and offspring of my intellect has the good fortune to pass before the royal eyes of your Majesty, it will be of great importance to your royal service.
[The present book is divided into three parts.

Part first, consisting of ten chapters, is a short resume of Philippine history from the earliest discoveries until the naval battle at Playa Honda with the Dutch.

The second part, consisting of seven chapters, deals more intimately with the needs and resources of the islands, and the importance of their conservation--that is, of matters that fell particularly to Los Rios in his capacity of procurator-general.