Reclaiming the Lost Archive of San Agustin Library

Fray Joseph Navarro writes to Fray Francisco Zamora, the Provincial of the Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, congratulating him on the appointment of Fray Álvaro de Benavente as Bishop of Ascalon and Apostolic Vicar of Kiangsi. Navarro emphasizes the significance of this appointment for the mission's glory and the welfare of the area's residents, expressing hope for the peace and stability it will bring to the region. He reflects on ongoing disputes regarding apostolic vicars and the need for strong leadership in the area, particularly in Canton and the Macao diocese. Additionally, he mentions the arrival of a French warship carrying 22 French priests, which raises concerns about future developments and interactions with the Chinese emperor. Navarro expresses his readiness to serve and support Zamora in any way needed. The letter is dated December 28, 1698, from Canton. 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.