_ 10 _ This matter would have progressed more smoothly if it had been initiated by person who had greater love for his homeland and had been born there. I do not say this because the person who did so does not deserve a great deal for it, but rather because he did not live there as the country requires. At least my ability is important to this country, and to those who govern it, because great things will be achieved with money. However, the King neither sees nor hears anything except what he is told by four men, especially Suleiman Pasha and Rustan Pasha, his son-in-law. In affairs of this nature, Suleiman Pasha controls everything. As far as pepper and other products; mainly food, are concerned, these people are content that they will (not) run out. I am writing this to His Highness and to the Count. You should remind them of it, and this matter should be dealt with quickly. They have given me eight months for this message to go and be answered. I accepted this letter because it was reasonable to wait for Duarte Catanho and what His Highness has instructed in this matter. Its translation into Portuguese is appended to this letter because someone sent it in his. The Turk will deliver it to you there. If the other is found, keep this one and do not show it because they are exactly the same.
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