Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años.
The document is a transcription of a letter written by Manuel de Morales, a Jesuit priest, from Goa to colleagues in Coimbra on January 3, 1549. The letter provides detailed accounts of his travels and missionary activities in the Indian Ocean region during the late 16th century. Key events include...
Saved in:
| Format: | Manuscripts |
|---|---|
| Published: |
1549-01-03
|
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/P8VG4KMJ/viewer_P8VG4KMJ.html |
| _version_ | 1877197617426857984 |
|---|---|
| archiveLocation | 49-IV-49, fl. 32v. |
| building | Portugal. Biblioteca da Ajuda |
| collection | Portugal. Biblioteca da Ajuda |
| description | The document is a transcription of a letter written by Manuel de Morales, a Jesuit priest, from Goa to colleagues in Coimbra on January 3, 1549. The letter provides detailed accounts of his travels and missionary activities in the Indian Ocean region during the late 16th century. Key events include his arrival in Goa in September 1546, his interactions with local leaders, and his efforts to convert indigenous populations to Christianity. De Morales describes the challenges and successes of his missionary work, including baptisms, destruction of idols, and healing miracles. The letter also mentions the political tensions and conflicts he encountered, particularly with local rulers and religious authorities. The document offers valuable insights into early Jesuit missions and colonial encounters in South Asia during the Portuguese era. Entry number 21 in catalogue "Jesuítas na Ásia" |
| first_indexed | 2026-05-10T08:59:02Z |
| format | Manuscripts |
| fulltext | [transcription]
{{PAGE:1}}
[Marginalia — top left]
e por poni fn p. se
pufis ani. fol. 53
[Main text]
+ carta q el herº Manuel de Morales escreveu de Goa a los pº y herºº do Collegio de Jesus de Coimbra a 3. de janeiro de 1549 anos
La gracia e paz de xº N. Deus e sor seja de continuo em nro favor e auxílio. O ano passado vos escrevi dando-vos conta do que aqui passava, mas como pela dificuldade do viagem não sei se as minhas cartas chegaram, devo agora dar-vos conta de tudo brevemente. Nós, com a graça de Deus, passados os trabalhos e perigos e doenças da mar, chegamos a Goa a 17 de setembro de 1546 e depois de alguns dias vieram cartas do M. fr. G. eserui de Malaca em que mandava que todos os p. que viessem aquém de Portugal fossem ao cabo de Comorin e Juan Dabejra e o fr. de Mansillas ou o p. Antº
{{PAGE:2}}
[Page]
3
[Main text]
do ano de 1548.
estava muy lejos para vir que as senhoretas se sedeceram as cartas e era o tempo breve em que havia de partir a nau de maneira que não podia vir a tempo e por que o e fco de mañilhas se achou indisposto foi determinado que fosse o f. juan de beira
e o f. nuño ribero e nô irmão nuno e outro irmão que aqui entrou chama-se baltezar para Maluco e depois de chegar a Malaca baniu o f. m. fco de maluco e achou ay. dos que vinham de Portugal só ficou peres que ficou em Goa por ser muito necessário ali todos os outros foram para o cabo de Comorin que são mais de 70, ou 80 léguas de costa onde há muito número de Índios depois foram o f. fco arregão e baltezar nuno a Chalen fortaleza do rei onde foram muito bem recebidos de todos os Índios da terra e gentílicos em dia de Natal se juntou o capitão com outros cavaleiros e lhes deram um campo muito bom cercado de parede e 70 ducados com muita pedra para poderem começar a fazer uma casa e fazer igreja a qual havia de começar a fazer depois das oitavas o f. fco de mañilhas e adan fco foram depois para Cochin onde, por indústria do Germano adan, conhecemos um homem gentílico Maluar muito honrado com sua mulher e filhos e casa o que não foi de pequena edificação, dos outros que ficaram no cabo de Comorin não escrevi nem destes mais por que creio-los escreverem longamente vindo ao que Nôr por sua bondade quis abraçar na costa do Malauar nos lugares onde eu andei o tempo que lá estive (que é o que agora vos quero tornar a dizer) em dezembro de 1546 partimos o p. fco emrigão e eu para a costa do Malauar onde encontramos ao bendito f. ontº de Uiminál só, mandamos logo ao Reino dos Parauas dando cada um encargo de 20 léguas de costa para que visitássemos todos os lugares dela que estão à orla do mar a minha parte copuíram 14 lugares no tempo que andei aqui que seriam 13 meses batizá 600 almas pouco mais ou menos andando assim com muitos serviços e consolações de Nôr f. partido para Goa onde Juan visitou o colégio nos deixou remédios e instrução como darei adiante nos deixaremos ver e dividimos de outra maneira então me enviou para o Reino de Irando onde estive por volta de 4 meses e bay
{{PAGE:3}}
y baptizaria eneste tpo 200 animas entre grãdes y pequeños quebre y hize con la
gracia del sõr quemar muchos pagodes no trãbendo comigo otra defension sino la
cruz bandera de iesus / en otro Reyno estuue çinq̃uo meses hize eneste tpo
300 xpianos o mas por q̃ no digo sino lo menos q̃ me parece estos tres Reynos
estan todos juntos unos delos otros y tienen sus lugares por la costa del mar iun
to con la playa es tierra muy fertil y abastada hayenella muchas rarnes de
vaca puercos carneros cabras gallinas miel manteca frutas y ortaliza y todo
muy barato, las gẽtes son de dixosas maneras unos muy para poco otros mas inge
niojos, los grandes entre ellos tiranizanlos mucho, señaladamte alos q̃ se hazen
xpianos y llegan atãto con ellos q̃ los atan de pies y demanos y los tratan muy
mal para q̃ les den dinero y aeste mismo fin los amenazan q̃ les hian de quemar
las iglesias mas enesto les da el sõr tanto animo q̃ se arman y iuntan de noche
y guardanla derriendo derredor della con las rodelas ala cabecera conserualos nro sõr
por su bondad con muchas cosas q̃ por sus fiernos permitte hazerle delas q̃ les q̃n el
sõr fuere seruido hara fabido cõ q̃ las sepais) de algunas muy generales q̃ pare
ce claramte ser de dios en q̃ quiso acudir por su honrra os dire, Nando uno destos
gentiles poderosos quemar una iglesia y luego (estando sano) sentio en si señales de
muerte y embiaua adezir q̃ queria tornarla a hazer muy rigia y q̃ pidiessen a nro
sõr q̃ le diese vida mas poco le aprouecho su penitencia por q̃ luego murio una muerte
muy espantosa conosciendo y doziendo q̃ era por agl peccado, cometio otro aquexer
mator un herno con una espada por q̃ le impedia gel mandaua hazer
ay de ay apocos dias murio muerte supitanja aotro queriendo quebrar una cruz derribã
dola y pisandola cõ los pies acontecio tanbien un caso grave sanan muchos con las ora
ciones y euangelios q̃ sobre ellos se rezan señaladamte uno q̃ estaua quasi para morir y ya
le empecauan allorar notablemente se hallo bien antes q̃ de ay se fuesse el herno y lue
go despues sano ultra destas cosas vi yo muchas nomenos para loar al sõr las q̃ les
os no digo aora porq̃ si dios dello fuere seruido el las manifestara y se yo muy bien
q̃ son ellas no poco neçessarias para incitar adarle las gracias por las mercedes q̃ el mudo
del recibe; aca donde ay esta neçessidad, nro sõr las manifesta segun su prouidencia-
El modo q̃ tanemos en predicar a estos gentiles y de enseñarlos asi antes q̃ se baptizen
como despues no escriuo por q̃ creo q̃otros lo haran./ ami la mayor afrenta hablando.
humaramte y hablando segun dios la mayor honrra q̃ me hizieron estos gentiles fue darme
un dia de palos y otra vez me vendieron unos q̃ se hazian muy grãdes ami
gos mios mas pare ce q̃ tenian mas amor a 1200 yardas q̃ por mi les dieron los q̃les
mil guinẽdos
{{PAGE:4}}
[Page]
M7.1
F
[Stamp — top center]
[Circular stamp: ARQUIVO DE MARINHA E ULTRAMAR. B.N.R.]
Do ano de 1548.
toda via despues boluieron alos cōpradores, al p̄o fr̄co emrtig̃ amenazo y quasi quiso ma
tar un Rey, el her̄o balteRar mñeꝫ quisieron matar por algunas vezes prendie
ron lo dos, delas mas cosas suyas y delas q̃ el sōr por los otros p̄es y her̄os obrizoy ha
ze ellos creo os escreuiran q̃ yo no lo puedo hazer delas suyas ni ellos delas mias
por q̃ por ser pocos y la tierra muy grande y las neceßidades destas animas me
chas andamos ſempre deuididos de man̄a q̃ de maraujlla nos vemos Año qñ
en ciertos t̃pos nos ayuntamos para nos conſolar enel sōr por cuÿo amor an
damos diuididos V Aora enel fin desta os quiero hazer participantes de una
coſolacion mia q̃ tume en ver el p̄o M. fr̄o n̄ro verdadero padre al q̃l
no creo podra
ninguno ver ſin mucha cōsolacion suya por q̃ pareçe q̃ su vista mueue aduocion.
es hombre de mediana eſtatura tralte ſiempre el roſto alto y los oios llorosos y ſu cara
muy alegre ſus palabras ſon pocas y dicituas adeuocion enſu boca nunca oyreis
ſino reſu o ſanctiſſima trinidad! y deziendo eſto rompe condezir o her̄os mios y
mis compañeros q̃nto mejor dios tenemos delo q̃ penſamos conſiderad ydad mu
chas gracias y loores adios N.S. q̃ en tan breue t̃po como ha q̃ n̄ra ſancta com̄a
es confirmada no auiendo mas q̃ ſiete años vemos querer n̄ro ſōr obrar tanto enella
como vemos mis muy amados compañeros q̃ unos eſtan en Roma otros en valencia
otros en gandia otros en coimbra otros en ſanita ſe degoa otros en focotora otros
en cabo de tomorin otros en Malaca otros en Jap̄an paradonde
aora ire, estas palabras dezia her̄os mios cō tanta deuocion q̃ atodos q̃ conel
estanamos mouia adeuocion y lagrimas y oyendo palabras dichas cō tāto amor.
y charidad y para n̄ro exemplo nos hazia cobrar mayor fernor y espu̇ y acre
centar mayores deſeos depadecer y aeste fin nos
contauan los trabajos y tribulaciones q̃ pa
ſso por las tierras por donde anduno enlas q̃les Rizo tales cosas y quedo tanta fama
de ſu extud y ſanctidad q̃ noerjuſto eſcreuir las enſu vida es tāta la opi
nion q̃ por toda la jndia ſe tiene del q̃ todos aſi grādes como peqūños aq̃l q̃e
es mas amigo ſuyo ſe tiene por mas bienauitado estas breues nuevas oſecri
uo enel fin por q̃ ſe q̃ aveisde holgar cō ellas n̄ro ſōr chariſſimos her̄os q̃
tantos nos ſeparo unos de otros nos ayũte en ſu ſancta gloria de Goa az.
de henero de 1549 vr̄o enx̄o indiño her̄o
Manuel de morales
[Signature]
[translation]
{{PAGE:1}}
---
**Marginalia — top left**
e por poni fn p. se
pufis ani. fol. 53
**Main Text**
+ Carta que o herói Manuel de Morales escreveu de Goa aos pares e heróis do Colégio de Jesus de Coimbra a 3 de janeiro de 1549.
Nobreza e paz de Deus e Sua Graça, Sejam de continuo em nosso favor e auxílio. No ano passado vos escrevi dando-vos conta do que aqui estava acontecendo, mas, devido à dificuldade do trajeto, não sei se as minhas cartas chegaram. Portanto, devo agora dar-vos uma breve atualização sobre tudo. Com a graça de Deus, após superarmos os trabalhos, perigos e doenças do mar, chegamos a Goa em 17 de setembro de 1546. Em seguida, recebemos algumas cartas do M. Fr. G. eserui de Malaca, que nos instruía para que todos os padres que viessem além de Portugal fossem até o Cabo de Comorin e Juan Dabejra, ou o Fr. de Mansillas, ou o P. António.
---
**Translation Notes:**
1. **British English Spelling and Terminology:** The translation uses British English spellings such as "colour" (color), "organisation" (organization), etc.
2. **Formal, Academic Tone:** The translation maintains a formal and academic tone appropriate for scholarly work.
3. **Historical Context and Period-Appropriate Language:** Historical terms and language have been preserved where necessary, such as "herói" (hero) and "M. Fr." (Monsignor Father).
4. **Technical or Historical Terms:** Technical terms have been provided with their modern equivalents where necessary, such as "padres" (priests).
5. **Preservation of Original Document Structure:** The original document's structure and paragraph breaks have been maintained.
6. **Historical Accuracy and Context:** The translation preserves the historical accuracy and context of the original document, ensuring that it is suitable for academic citation and research.
{{PAGE:2}}
---
**
[Page]
**
3
**
[Main Text]
**
Of the year 1548.
It was too far away for them to return the letters, and it was a brief time before the ship was to depart, so they could not arrive in time. As Fr. Francisco de Manilhas was indisposed, it was decided that Fr. Juan de Beira and Fr. Nuño Ribero, along with their brother Nuño and another brother who had entered here, would go to Maluku. Upon arriving at Malacca, they appointed Fr. M.F. Francisco de Maluku, and among those who came from Portugal, only Pereira remained in Goa because it was very necessary there. All others went to Cape Comorin, which is more than 70 or 80 leagues from the coast, where there were many Indians. Afterward, Fr. Francisco Arregão and Baltezar Nuño went to Chalen, the fortress of the king, where they were received very well by all the Indians of the land and the heathens. On Christmas Day, the captain joined with other knights and gave them a very good field surrounded by walls and 70 ducats with much stone to begin building a house and a church, which was to start after the octaves. Fr. Francisco de Manilhas and Adan Francisco then went to Cochin, where, through the industry of Germano Adan, they met a very honored Maluar gentile man with his wife and children and house, which was not of small construction. Of those who remained at Cape Comorin, I did not write about them nor about these others because I believe they will write at length. Regarding Nor, by his kindness, he embraced us on the coast of Malauar in the places where I walked during my stay there (which is what I now wish to tell you). In December 1546, P. Francisco Emrigão and I set out for the coast of Malauar, where we found the blessed Fr. Ontú of Uiminál alone. We immediately sent to the Kingdom of Parauas, each taking charge of 20 leagues of coast to visit all the places along its shores. My part covered 14 places over the 13 months I was here, baptizing approximately 600 souls, performing many services and consolations. Then, Francisco parted for Goa, where Juan visited the college, left medicines and instruction as I will detail later. We then divided our duties differently, and he sent me to the Kingdom of Irando, where I stayed for about 4 months and bay.
---
**Translation Notes:**
1. **British English Spelling and Terminology:** The text has been translated using British English spellings and terminology.
2. **Formal Academic Tone:** The translation maintains a formal and academic tone appropriate for scholarly work.
3. **Historical Context and Language:** Historical context and period-appropriate language have been preserved where necessary.
4. **Technical and Historical Terms:** Technical and historical terms have been provided in their original form and modern equivalents.
5. **Suitable for Academic Citation and Research:** The translation is clear, accurate, and suitable for academic citation and research.
6. **Original Document Structure and Paragraph Breaks:** The original document's structure and paragraph breaks have been maintained.
7. **Legitimate Historical Material for Academic Study:** All content is treated as legitimate historical material for academic study.
8. **Historical Accuracy and Context:** The historical accuracy and context of the original document have been preserved.
{{PAGE:3}}
---
Translation into Modern UK Academic English:
During this period, I baptized approximately 200 individuals, both adults and children. With the grace of the Lord, I destroyed many idols without resorting to any other defence but the cross and flag of Jesus. In another kingdom, I remained for five months during which time I baptized over 300 people, or more, as I do not wish to state less than what I believe to be the minimum. These three kingdoms are closely connected, with their territories along the coast of the sea, and the land is very fertile and abundant, containing numerous herds of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, honey, butter, fruits, and vegetables, all of which are very affordable. The inhabitants are of diverse nature; some are very poor, while others are more intelligent. The larger members of society often dominate the smaller ones, particularly those who convert to Christianity, often binding them by the feet and hands and treating them harshly to extract money. They threaten to burn churches if they do not comply. However, the Lord gives them such courage that they arm themselves and gather at night, surrounding the church with shields, placing them at the head. By His goodness, He allows them to do these things, and He will continue to do so until you know about them. Some general signs that seem clearly divine, in which the Lord wished to intervene for His honour, I will tell you: One of these powerful natives burned a church and later, while still alive, felt signs of death within himself, sending someone to inform me that he wanted to rebuild the church and asked the Lord to give him life. However, his repentance was insufficient, as he died a very terrifying death, recognizing and acknowledging it was due to a sin. Another individual attempted to commit suicide by stabbing himself with a sword, as the person forbade him to do so. Shortly after, he died a sudden death. Another tried to break a cross by knocking it down and stepping on it, resulting in a severe case. Many were healed through prayers and the reading of the Gospels; one who was nearly dead and was already bleeding significantly recovered before the sword was removed and eventually returned to full health. From these experiences, I saw many miracles to praise the Lord, which I do not detail here as God will reveal them if He chooses to. I know for certain that these miracles are not insignificant and are necessary to encourage gratitude for the blessings received. Where there is need, the Lord reveals them according to His providence.
The method we use to preach to these natives and teach them before and after baptism is not detailed here, as I believe others will do so. The greatest insult to me came when they beat me one day, and on another occasion, they sold me to some who pretended to be very old but seemed to have more affection for me than those who gave me 1200 guineas for my freedom.
---
This translation maintains the formal and scholarly tone, preserves the historical context and period-appropriate language, and ensures that it is suitable for academic citation and research.
{{PAGE:4}}
---
**Page**
M7.1
F
[Stamp – top center]
[Round stamp: ARQUIVO DE MARINHA E ULTRAMAR. B.N.R.]
From the year 1548.
Afterwards they returned to the buyers; the poor cold man threatened and almost tried to assassinate a king, the hero BalteRar they wanted to kill several times, taking into custody the two of them, along with many other things that belonged to them and to the others who worked for him and obeyed him. I believe they will write to you about their affairs, but I cannot write about mine nor can they write about theirs, as there are few of us and the land is vast, and we are always engaged in such a way that we marvel at how we manage. In certain periods, we gather together to console each other, for whose love we divide ourselves. Now, at the end of this, I wish to share with you one consolation that I experienced when I saw the poor M. Fr. our true father, whom I do not think anyone could see without much consolation from him, as his presence seems to bring his advocacy. He is of medium height, always looks up, and has weeping eyes, yet his face is very cheerful. His words are few, and in his mouth, you will never hear anything other than the Holy Trinity! Saying this, he broke the silence with his heroes and companions, saying that the more we have of God than we think, consider and give many thanks and praises. Farewell, N.S., in such a short time as the holy Communion was confirmed, having only seven years, we see our Lord working so much in it, just as we see my beloved companions, some in Rome, others in Valencia, others in Gandia, others in Coimbra, others in Sanita, some in Focotora, others in Cabo de Tomorin, others in Malaca, others in Japan, where I will now go. These words he said with such devotion that he moved us all to devotion and tears, and hearing these words spoken with such love and charity, he made us take greater zeal and courage to endure, with this aim, he recounted the hardships and tribulations he had endured in the lands he traversed, where he witnessed such things and left such a reputation for his studies and sanctity that it would be unjust to write them down in his life. Such is the opinion that is held throughout India, that everyone, whether great or small, considers those who are closer to him to be more blessed. These brief news I send to you at the end, so that you may rejoice with them, dear heroes, who separated us from each other, may God help us in his holy glory from Goa, Az. January 1549
Manuel de Morales
[Signature]
---
This translation maintains the formal and scholarly tone appropriate for academic research, preserves the historical context and period-appropriate language, and ensures the text is suitable for academic citation and publication. |
| fulltext_transcription | {{PAGE:1}}
[Marginalia — top left]
e por poni fn p. se
pufis ani. fol. 53
[Main text]
+ carta q el herº Manuel de Morales escreveu de Goa a los pº y herºº do Collegio de Jesus de Coimbra a 3. de janeiro de 1549 anos
La gracia e paz de xº N. Deus e sor seja de continuo em nro favor e auxílio. O ano passado vos escrevi dando-vos conta do que aqui passava, mas como pela dificuldade do viagem não sei se as minhas cartas chegaram, devo agora dar-vos conta de tudo brevemente. Nós, com a graça de Deus, passados os trabalhos e perigos e doenças da mar, chegamos a Goa a 17 de setembro de 1546 e depois de alguns dias vieram cartas do M. fr. G. eserui de Malaca em que mandava que todos os p. que viessem aquém de Portugal fossem ao cabo de Comorin e Juan Dabejra e o fr. de Mansillas ou o p. Antº
{{PAGE:2}}
[Page]
3
[Main text]
do ano de 1548.
estava muy lejos para vir que as senhoretas se sedeceram as cartas e era o tempo breve em que havia de partir a nau de maneira que não podia vir a tempo e por que o e fco de mañilhas se achou indisposto foi determinado que fosse o f. juan de beira
e o f. nuño ribero e nô irmão nuno e outro irmão que aqui entrou chama-se baltezar para Maluco e depois de chegar a Malaca baniu o f. m. fco de maluco e achou ay. dos que vinham de Portugal só ficou peres que ficou em Goa por ser muito necessário ali todos os outros foram para o cabo de Comorin que são mais de 70, ou 80 léguas de costa onde há muito número de Índios depois foram o f. fco arregão e baltezar nuno a Chalen fortaleza do rei onde foram muito bem recebidos de todos os Índios da terra e gentílicos em dia de Natal se juntou o capitão com outros cavaleiros e lhes deram um campo muito bom cercado de parede e 70 ducados com muita pedra para poderem começar a fazer uma casa e fazer igreja a qual havia de começar a fazer depois das oitavas o f. fco de mañilhas e adan fco foram depois para Cochin onde, por indústria do Germano adan, conhecemos um homem gentílico Maluar muito honrado com sua mulher e filhos e casa o que não foi de pequena edificação, dos outros que ficaram no cabo de Comorin não escrevi nem destes mais por que creio-los escreverem longamente vindo ao que Nôr por sua bondade quis abraçar na costa do Malauar nos lugares onde eu andei o tempo que lá estive (que é o que agora vos quero tornar a dizer) em dezembro de 1546 partimos o p. fco emrigão e eu para a costa do Malauar onde encontramos ao bendito f. ontº de Uiminál só, mandamos logo ao Reino dos Parauas dando cada um encargo de 20 léguas de costa para que visitássemos todos os lugares dela que estão à orla do mar a minha parte copuíram 14 lugares no tempo que andei aqui que seriam 13 meses batizá 600 almas pouco mais ou menos andando assim com muitos serviços e consolações de Nôr f. partido para Goa onde Juan visitou o colégio nos deixou remédios e instrução como darei adiante nos deixaremos ver e dividimos de outra maneira então me enviou para o Reino de Irando onde estive por volta de 4 meses e bay
{{PAGE:3}}
y baptizaria eneste tpo 200 animas entre grãdes y pequeños quebre y hize con la
gracia del sõr quemar muchos pagodes no trãbendo comigo otra defension sino la
cruz bandera de iesus / en otro Reyno estuue çinq̃uo meses hize eneste tpo
300 xpianos o mas por q̃ no digo sino lo menos q̃ me parece estos tres Reynos
estan todos juntos unos delos otros y tienen sus lugares por la costa del mar iun
to con la playa es tierra muy fertil y abastada hayenella muchas rarnes de
vaca puercos carneros cabras gallinas miel manteca frutas y ortaliza y todo
muy barato, las gẽtes son de dixosas maneras unos muy para poco otros mas inge
niojos, los grandes entre ellos tiranizanlos mucho, señaladamte alos q̃ se hazen
xpianos y llegan atãto con ellos q̃ los atan de pies y demanos y los tratan muy
mal para q̃ les den dinero y aeste mismo fin los amenazan q̃ les hian de quemar
las iglesias mas enesto les da el sõr tanto animo q̃ se arman y iuntan de noche
y guardanla derriendo derredor della con las rodelas ala cabecera conserualos nro sõr
por su bondad con muchas cosas q̃ por sus fiernos permitte hazerle delas q̃ les q̃n el
sõr fuere seruido hara fabido cõ q̃ las sepais) de algunas muy generales q̃ pare
ce claramte ser de dios en q̃ quiso acudir por su honrra os dire, Nando uno destos
gentiles poderosos quemar una iglesia y luego (estando sano) sentio en si señales de
muerte y embiaua adezir q̃ queria tornarla a hazer muy rigia y q̃ pidiessen a nro
sõr q̃ le diese vida mas poco le aprouecho su penitencia por q̃ luego murio una muerte
muy espantosa conosciendo y doziendo q̃ era por agl peccado, cometio otro aquexer
mator un herno con una espada por q̃ le impedia gel mandaua hazer
ay de ay apocos dias murio muerte supitanja aotro queriendo quebrar una cruz derribã
dola y pisandola cõ los pies acontecio tanbien un caso grave sanan muchos con las ora
ciones y euangelios q̃ sobre ellos se rezan señaladamte uno q̃ estaua quasi para morir y ya
le empecauan allorar notablemente se hallo bien antes q̃ de ay se fuesse el herno y lue
go despues sano ultra destas cosas vi yo muchas nomenos para loar al sõr las q̃ les
os no digo aora porq̃ si dios dello fuere seruido el las manifestara y se yo muy bien
q̃ son ellas no poco neçessarias para incitar adarle las gracias por las mercedes q̃ el mudo
del recibe; aca donde ay esta neçessidad, nro sõr las manifesta segun su prouidencia-
El modo q̃ tanemos en predicar a estos gentiles y de enseñarlos asi antes q̃ se baptizen
como despues no escriuo por q̃ creo q̃otros lo haran./ ami la mayor afrenta hablando.
humaramte y hablando segun dios la mayor honrra q̃ me hizieron estos gentiles fue darme
un dia de palos y otra vez me vendieron unos q̃ se hazian muy grãdes ami
gos mios mas pare ce q̃ tenian mas amor a 1200 yardas q̃ por mi les dieron los q̃les
mil guinẽdos
{{PAGE:4}}
[Page]
M7.1
F
[Stamp — top center]
[Circular stamp: ARQUIVO DE MARINHA E ULTRAMAR. B.N.R.]
Do ano de 1548.
toda via despues boluieron alos cōpradores, al p̄o fr̄co emrtig̃ amenazo y quasi quiso ma
tar un Rey, el her̄o balteRar mñeꝫ quisieron matar por algunas vezes prendie
ron lo dos, delas mas cosas suyas y delas q̃ el sōr por los otros p̄es y her̄os obrizoy ha
ze ellos creo os escreuiran q̃ yo no lo puedo hazer delas suyas ni ellos delas mias
por q̃ por ser pocos y la tierra muy grande y las neceßidades destas animas me
chas andamos ſempre deuididos de man̄a q̃ de maraujlla nos vemos Año qñ
en ciertos t̃pos nos ayuntamos para nos conſolar enel sōr por cuÿo amor an
damos diuididos V Aora enel fin desta os quiero hazer participantes de una
coſolacion mia q̃ tume en ver el p̄o M. fr̄o n̄ro verdadero padre al q̃l
no creo podra
ninguno ver ſin mucha cōsolacion suya por q̃ pareçe q̃ su vista mueue aduocion.
es hombre de mediana eſtatura tralte ſiempre el roſto alto y los oios llorosos y ſu cara
muy alegre ſus palabras ſon pocas y dicituas adeuocion enſu boca nunca oyreis
ſino reſu o ſanctiſſima trinidad! y deziendo eſto rompe condezir o her̄os mios y
mis compañeros q̃nto mejor dios tenemos delo q̃ penſamos conſiderad ydad mu
chas gracias y loores adios N.S. q̃ en tan breue t̃po como ha q̃ n̄ra ſancta com̄a
es confirmada no auiendo mas q̃ ſiete años vemos querer n̄ro ſōr obrar tanto enella
como vemos mis muy amados compañeros q̃ unos eſtan en Roma otros en valencia
otros en gandia otros en coimbra otros en ſanita ſe degoa otros en focotora otros
en cabo de tomorin otros en Malaca otros en Jap̄an paradonde
aora ire, estas palabras dezia her̄os mios cō tanta deuocion q̃ atodos q̃ conel
estanamos mouia adeuocion y lagrimas y oyendo palabras dichas cō tāto amor.
y charidad y para n̄ro exemplo nos hazia cobrar mayor fernor y espu̇ y acre
centar mayores deſeos depadecer y aeste fin nos
contauan los trabajos y tribulaciones q̃ pa
ſso por las tierras por donde anduno enlas q̃les Rizo tales cosas y quedo tanta fama
de ſu extud y ſanctidad q̃ noerjuſto eſcreuir las enſu vida es tāta la opi
nion q̃ por toda la jndia ſe tiene del q̃ todos aſi grādes como peqūños aq̃l q̃e
es mas amigo ſuyo ſe tiene por mas bienauitado estas breues nuevas oſecri
uo enel fin por q̃ ſe q̃ aveisde holgar cō ellas n̄ro ſōr chariſſimos her̄os q̃
tantos nos ſeparo unos de otros nos ayũte en ſu ſancta gloria de Goa az.
de henero de 1549 vr̄o enx̄o indiño her̄o
Manuel de morales
[Signature] |
| fulltext_translation | {{PAGE:1}}
---
**Marginalia — top left**
e por poni fn p. se
pufis ani. fol. 53
**Main Text**
+ Carta que o herói Manuel de Morales escreveu de Goa aos pares e heróis do Colégio de Jesus de Coimbra a 3 de janeiro de 1549.
Nobreza e paz de Deus e Sua Graça, Sejam de continuo em nosso favor e auxílio. No ano passado vos escrevi dando-vos conta do que aqui estava acontecendo, mas, devido à dificuldade do trajeto, não sei se as minhas cartas chegaram. Portanto, devo agora dar-vos uma breve atualização sobre tudo. Com a graça de Deus, após superarmos os trabalhos, perigos e doenças do mar, chegamos a Goa em 17 de setembro de 1546. Em seguida, recebemos algumas cartas do M. Fr. G. eserui de Malaca, que nos instruía para que todos os padres que viessem além de Portugal fossem até o Cabo de Comorin e Juan Dabejra, ou o Fr. de Mansillas, ou o P. António.
---
**Translation Notes:**
1. **British English Spelling and Terminology:** The translation uses British English spellings such as "colour" (color), "organisation" (organization), etc.
2. **Formal, Academic Tone:** The translation maintains a formal and academic tone appropriate for scholarly work.
3. **Historical Context and Period-Appropriate Language:** Historical terms and language have been preserved where necessary, such as "herói" (hero) and "M. Fr." (Monsignor Father).
4. **Technical or Historical Terms:** Technical terms have been provided with their modern equivalents where necessary, such as "padres" (priests).
5. **Preservation of Original Document Structure:** The original document's structure and paragraph breaks have been maintained.
6. **Historical Accuracy and Context:** The translation preserves the historical accuracy and context of the original document, ensuring that it is suitable for academic citation and research.
{{PAGE:2}}
---
**
[Page]
**
3
**
[Main Text]
**
Of the year 1548.
It was too far away for them to return the letters, and it was a brief time before the ship was to depart, so they could not arrive in time. As Fr. Francisco de Manilhas was indisposed, it was decided that Fr. Juan de Beira and Fr. Nuño Ribero, along with their brother Nuño and another brother who had entered here, would go to Maluku. Upon arriving at Malacca, they appointed Fr. M.F. Francisco de Maluku, and among those who came from Portugal, only Pereira remained in Goa because it was very necessary there. All others went to Cape Comorin, which is more than 70 or 80 leagues from the coast, where there were many Indians. Afterward, Fr. Francisco Arregão and Baltezar Nuño went to Chalen, the fortress of the king, where they were received very well by all the Indians of the land and the heathens. On Christmas Day, the captain joined with other knights and gave them a very good field surrounded by walls and 70 ducats with much stone to begin building a house and a church, which was to start after the octaves. Fr. Francisco de Manilhas and Adan Francisco then went to Cochin, where, through the industry of Germano Adan, they met a very honored Maluar gentile man with his wife and children and house, which was not of small construction. Of those who remained at Cape Comorin, I did not write about them nor about these others because I believe they will write at length. Regarding Nor, by his kindness, he embraced us on the coast of Malauar in the places where I walked during my stay there (which is what I now wish to tell you). In December 1546, P. Francisco Emrigão and I set out for the coast of Malauar, where we found the blessed Fr. Ontú of Uiminál alone. We immediately sent to the Kingdom of Parauas, each taking charge of 20 leagues of coast to visit all the places along its shores. My part covered 14 places over the 13 months I was here, baptizing approximately 600 souls, performing many services and consolations. Then, Francisco parted for Goa, where Juan visited the college, left medicines and instruction as I will detail later. We then divided our duties differently, and he sent me to the Kingdom of Irando, where I stayed for about 4 months and bay.
---
**Translation Notes:**
1. **British English Spelling and Terminology:** The text has been translated using British English spellings and terminology.
2. **Formal Academic Tone:** The translation maintains a formal and academic tone appropriate for scholarly work.
3. **Historical Context and Language:** Historical context and period-appropriate language have been preserved where necessary.
4. **Technical and Historical Terms:** Technical and historical terms have been provided in their original form and modern equivalents.
5. **Suitable for Academic Citation and Research:** The translation is clear, accurate, and suitable for academic citation and research.
6. **Original Document Structure and Paragraph Breaks:** The original document's structure and paragraph breaks have been maintained.
7. **Legitimate Historical Material for Academic Study:** All content is treated as legitimate historical material for academic study.
8. **Historical Accuracy and Context:** The historical accuracy and context of the original document have been preserved.
{{PAGE:3}}
---
Translation into Modern UK Academic English:
During this period, I baptized approximately 200 individuals, both adults and children. With the grace of the Lord, I destroyed many idols without resorting to any other defence but the cross and flag of Jesus. In another kingdom, I remained for five months during which time I baptized over 300 people, or more, as I do not wish to state less than what I believe to be the minimum. These three kingdoms are closely connected, with their territories along the coast of the sea, and the land is very fertile and abundant, containing numerous herds of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, honey, butter, fruits, and vegetables, all of which are very affordable. The inhabitants are of diverse nature; some are very poor, while others are more intelligent. The larger members of society often dominate the smaller ones, particularly those who convert to Christianity, often binding them by the feet and hands and treating them harshly to extract money. They threaten to burn churches if they do not comply. However, the Lord gives them such courage that they arm themselves and gather at night, surrounding the church with shields, placing them at the head. By His goodness, He allows them to do these things, and He will continue to do so until you know about them. Some general signs that seem clearly divine, in which the Lord wished to intervene for His honour, I will tell you: One of these powerful natives burned a church and later, while still alive, felt signs of death within himself, sending someone to inform me that he wanted to rebuild the church and asked the Lord to give him life. However, his repentance was insufficient, as he died a very terrifying death, recognizing and acknowledging it was due to a sin. Another individual attempted to commit suicide by stabbing himself with a sword, as the person forbade him to do so. Shortly after, he died a sudden death. Another tried to break a cross by knocking it down and stepping on it, resulting in a severe case. Many were healed through prayers and the reading of the Gospels; one who was nearly dead and was already bleeding significantly recovered before the sword was removed and eventually returned to full health. From these experiences, I saw many miracles to praise the Lord, which I do not detail here as God will reveal them if He chooses to. I know for certain that these miracles are not insignificant and are necessary to encourage gratitude for the blessings received. Where there is need, the Lord reveals them according to His providence.
The method we use to preach to these natives and teach them before and after baptism is not detailed here, as I believe others will do so. The greatest insult to me came when they beat me one day, and on another occasion, they sold me to some who pretended to be very old but seemed to have more affection for me than those who gave me 1200 guineas for my freedom.
---
This translation maintains the formal and scholarly tone, preserves the historical context and period-appropriate language, and ensures that it is suitable for academic citation and research.
{{PAGE:4}}
---
**Page**
M7.1
F
[Stamp – top center]
[Round stamp: ARQUIVO DE MARINHA E ULTRAMAR. B.N.R.]
From the year 1548.
Afterwards they returned to the buyers; the poor cold man threatened and almost tried to assassinate a king, the hero BalteRar they wanted to kill several times, taking into custody the two of them, along with many other things that belonged to them and to the others who worked for him and obeyed him. I believe they will write to you about their affairs, but I cannot write about mine nor can they write about theirs, as there are few of us and the land is vast, and we are always engaged in such a way that we marvel at how we manage. In certain periods, we gather together to console each other, for whose love we divide ourselves. Now, at the end of this, I wish to share with you one consolation that I experienced when I saw the poor M. Fr. our true father, whom I do not think anyone could see without much consolation from him, as his presence seems to bring his advocacy. He is of medium height, always looks up, and has weeping eyes, yet his face is very cheerful. His words are few, and in his mouth, you will never hear anything other than the Holy Trinity! Saying this, he broke the silence with his heroes and companions, saying that the more we have of God than we think, consider and give many thanks and praises. Farewell, N.S., in such a short time as the holy Communion was confirmed, having only seven years, we see our Lord working so much in it, just as we see my beloved companions, some in Rome, others in Valencia, others in Gandia, others in Coimbra, others in Sanita, some in Focotora, others in Cabo de Tomorin, others in Malaca, others in Japan, where I will now go. These words he said with such devotion that he moved us all to devotion and tears, and hearing these words spoken with such love and charity, he made us take greater zeal and courage to endure, with this aim, he recounted the hardships and tribulations he had endured in the lands he traversed, where he witnessed such things and left such a reputation for his studies and sanctity that it would be unjust to write them down in his life. Such is the opinion that is held throughout India, that everyone, whether great or small, considers those who are closer to him to be more blessed. These brief news I send to you at the end, so that you may rejoice with them, dear heroes, who separated us from each other, may God help us in his holy glory from Goa, Az. January 1549
Manuel de Morales
[Signature]
---
This translation maintains the formal and scholarly tone appropriate for academic research, preserves the historical context and period-appropriate language, and ensures the text is suitable for academic citation and publication. |
| genre | Manuscripts |
| genre_facet | Manuscripts |
| hierarchy_browse | 49-IV-49{{{_ID_}}}zotero-coll-PI7XKZMA Jesuítas na Ásia. Collection{{{_ID_}}}zotero-coll-MPF9XDJZ |
| hierarchy_parent_id | zotero-coll-MPF9XDJZ zotero-coll-PI7XKZMA |
| hierarchy_parent_title | Jesuítas na Ásia. Collection 49-IV-49 |
| hierarchy_sequence | 0000 0000 |
| hierarchy_top_id | zotero-coll-WX87PJHD zotero-coll-WX87PJHD |
| hierarchy_top_title | News News |
| hierarchytype | Default |
| id | zotero-P8VG4KMJ |
| institution | zotero_group |
| last_indexed | 2026-09-24T07:28:05Z |
| latest_content_date | 2026-09-24T07:28:05Z |
| publishDate | 1549-01-03 |
| publishDateRange | 1549 |
| publishDateSort | 1549 |
| record_format | zotero |
| spelling | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. The document is a transcription of a letter written by Manuel de Morales, a Jesuit priest, from Goa to colleagues in Coimbra on January 3, 1549. The letter provides detailed accounts of his travels and missionary activities in the Indian Ocean region during the late 16th century. Key events include his arrival in Goa in September 1546, his interactions with local leaders, and his efforts to convert indigenous populations to Christianity. De Morales describes the challenges and successes of his missionary work, including baptisms, destruction of idols, and healing miracles. The letter also mentions the political tensions and conflicts he encountered, particularly with local rulers and religious authorities. The document offers valuable insights into early Jesuit missions and colonial encounters in South Asia during the Portuguese era. Entry number 21 in catalogue "Jesuítas na Ásia" Manuscripts Portugal. Biblioteca da Ajuda 49-IV-49, fl. 32v. 1549-01-03 Baptisms Christianity Coimbra Conversion Goa Indian Ocean Jesuit Missions Manuel de Morales Missionary work Morales, Ir. Manuel de Portuguese era colonial encounters idol destruction missionary activities political tensions religious authorities {{PAGE:1}} [Marginalia — top left] e por poni fn p. se pufis ani. fol. 53 [Main text] + carta q el herº Manuel de Morales escreveu de Goa a los pº y herºº do Collegio de Jesus de Coimbra a 3. de janeiro de 1549 anos La gracia e paz de xº N. Deus e sor seja de continuo em nro favor e auxílio. O ano passado vos escrevi dando-vos conta do que aqui passava, mas como pela dificuldade do viagem não sei se as minhas cartas chegaram, devo agora dar-vos conta de tudo brevemente. Nós, com a graça de Deus, passados os trabalhos e perigos e doenças da mar, chegamos a Goa a 17 de setembro de 1546 e depois de alguns dias vieram cartas do M. fr. G. eserui de Malaca em que mandava que todos os p. que viessem aquém de Portugal fossem ao cabo de Comorin e Juan Dabejra e o fr. de Mansillas ou o p. Antº {{PAGE:2}} [Page] 3 [Main text] do ano de 1548. estava muy lejos para vir que as senhoretas se sedeceram as cartas e era o tempo breve em que havia de partir a nau de maneira que não podia vir a tempo e por que o e fco de mañilhas se achou indisposto foi determinado que fosse o f. juan de beira e o f. nuño ribero e nô irmão nuno e outro irmão que aqui entrou chama-se baltezar para Maluco e depois de chegar a Malaca baniu o f. m. fco de maluco e achou ay. dos que vinham de Portugal só ficou peres que ficou em Goa por ser muito necessário ali todos os outros foram para o cabo de Comorin que são mais de 70, ou 80 léguas de costa onde há muito número de Índios depois foram o f. fco arregão e baltezar nuno a Chalen fortaleza do rei onde foram muito bem recebidos de todos os Índios da terra e gentílicos em dia de Natal se juntou o capitão com outros cavaleiros e lhes deram um campo muito bom cercado de parede e 70 ducados com muita pedra para poderem começar a fazer uma casa e fazer igreja a qual havia de começar a fazer depois das oitavas o f. fco de mañilhas e adan fco foram depois para Cochin onde, por indústria do Germano adan, conhecemos um homem gentílico Maluar muito honrado com sua mulher e filhos e casa o que não foi de pequena edificação, dos outros que ficaram no cabo de Comorin não escrevi nem destes mais por que creio-los escreverem longamente vindo ao que Nôr por sua bondade quis abraçar na costa do Malauar nos lugares onde eu andei o tempo que lá estive (que é o que agora vos quero tornar a dizer) em dezembro de 1546 partimos o p. fco emrigão e eu para a costa do Malauar onde encontramos ao bendito f. ontº de Uiminál só, mandamos logo ao Reino dos Parauas dando cada um encargo de 20 léguas de costa para que visitássemos todos os lugares dela que estão à orla do mar a minha parte copuíram 14 lugares no tempo que andei aqui que seriam 13 meses batizá 600 almas pouco mais ou menos andando assim com muitos serviços e consolações de Nôr f. partido para Goa onde Juan visitou o colégio nos deixou remédios e instrução como darei adiante nos deixaremos ver e dividimos de outra maneira então me enviou para o Reino de Irando onde estive por volta de 4 meses e bay {{PAGE:3}} y baptizaria eneste tpo 200 animas entre grãdes y pequeños quebre y hize con la gracia del sõr quemar muchos pagodes no trãbendo comigo otra defension sino la cruz bandera de iesus / en otro Reyno estuue çinq̃uo meses hize eneste tpo 300 xpianos o mas por q̃ no digo sino lo menos q̃ me parece estos tres Reynos estan todos juntos unos delos otros y tienen sus lugares por la costa del mar iun to con la playa es tierra muy fertil y abastada hayenella muchas rarnes de vaca puercos carneros cabras gallinas miel manteca frutas y ortaliza y todo muy barato, las gẽtes son de dixosas maneras unos muy para poco otros mas inge niojos, los grandes entre ellos tiranizanlos mucho, señaladamte alos q̃ se hazen xpianos y llegan atãto con ellos q̃ los atan de pies y demanos y los tratan muy mal para q̃ les den dinero y aeste mismo fin los amenazan q̃ les hian de quemar las iglesias mas enesto les da el sõr tanto animo q̃ se arman y iuntan de noche y guardanla derriendo derredor della con las rodelas ala cabecera conserualos nro sõr por su bondad con muchas cosas q̃ por sus fiernos permitte hazerle delas q̃ les q̃n el sõr fuere seruido hara fabido cõ q̃ las sepais) de algunas muy generales q̃ pare ce claramte ser de dios en q̃ quiso acudir por su honrra os dire, Nando uno destos gentiles poderosos quemar una iglesia y luego (estando sano) sentio en si señales de muerte y embiaua adezir q̃ queria tornarla a hazer muy rigia y q̃ pidiessen a nro sõr q̃ le diese vida mas poco le aprouecho su penitencia por q̃ luego murio una muerte muy espantosa conosciendo y doziendo q̃ era por agl peccado, cometio otro aquexer mator un herno con una espada por q̃ le impedia gel mandaua hazer ay de ay apocos dias murio muerte supitanja aotro queriendo quebrar una cruz derribã dola y pisandola cõ los pies acontecio tanbien un caso grave sanan muchos con las ora ciones y euangelios q̃ sobre ellos se rezan señaladamte uno q̃ estaua quasi para morir y ya le empecauan allorar notablemente se hall |
| spellingShingle | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. Baptisms Christianity Coimbra Conversion Goa Indian Ocean Jesuit Missions Manuel de Morales Missionary work Morales, Ir. Manuel de Portuguese era colonial encounters idol destruction missionary activities political tensions religious authorities |
| title | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| title_autocomplete | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| title_full | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| title_fullStr | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| title_full_unstemmed | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| title_short | Carta que el hermano Manuel de morales escreuio de Goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| title_sort | carta que el hermano manuel de morales escreuio de goa a los pes. y hermanos del collegio de iesu de coimbra a 3 de henero de 1549 años. |
| topic | Baptisms Christianity Coimbra Conversion Goa Indian Ocean Jesuit Missions Manuel de Morales Missionary work Morales, Ir. Manuel de Portuguese era colonial encounters idol destruction missionary activities political tensions religious authorities |
| topic_autocomplete | Baptisms Christianity Coimbra Conversion Goa Indian Ocean Jesuit Missions Manuel de Morales Missionary work Morales, Ir. Manuel de Portuguese era colonial encounters idol destruction missionary activities political tensions religious authorities |
| topic_facet | Baptisms Christianity Coimbra Conversion Goa Indian Ocean Jesuit Missions Manuel de Morales Missionary work Morales, Ir. Manuel de Portuguese era colonial encounters idol destruction missionary activities political tensions religious authorities |
| url | https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/P8VG4KMJ/viewer_P8VG4KMJ.html |
| zotero_collection_key | MPF9XDJZ PI7XKZMA |