Reclaiming the Lost Archive of San Agustin Library

Father Fernando Verbiest, S.J., writes to the Very Reverend Father Álvaro de Benavente of the Augustinian order on January 25, 1684, from Beijing. He acknowledges the receipt of a letter detailing the arrival of two missionaries in Macao and expresses gratitude for the information provided by Father Benavente and Father Joseph Duque. Verbiest advises that new missionaries follow in the footsteps of the Augustinians, emphasizing the importance of discreet and peaceful conduct to avoid causing disturbances, as there are many enemies in the region. He stresses the importance of experienced guidance for the missionaries to avoid attracting the attention of authorities, who are particularly vigilant about foreigners. Verbiest entrusts himself to Father Benavente's prayers in his holy sacrifices. This text is in the volume with the title "PERTENECE AL/Aparador fuera de la Pared/Cajón/Númber 4/ITALONES Y CHINA/Legajos 1. /2./ 3./ 4./ 5. The volume was compiled by Pedro Orense.