Note 105 — San Agustin’s Letter on the Filipinos

45. One can give them nothing, even if it be given,105 for if he happen to give one anything in the presence of others, even if it be a needle,106 all will demand that in justice the same be given to them. In this they closely resemble the laborers of the twentieth chapter of St. Matthew, who construed as an injury the favor that the householder showed to their companions. This is covetousness and lack of consideration. So far is this foolishness carried that the Indian will take fifty lashes willingly, if he knows with certainty that all the others are to get as much. Surely they cause great trouble with this wretched habit, and those who might confer some benefit on them often avoid doing so.