The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagara, Vol. I v1.c28.114

v1.c28.114

The importance of this enterprise is frequently emphasised in the Jesuit letters of those days: “There are in this kingdom such extensive regions and populous cities”, Ricio again wrote in 1603, “that if God calls them to the faith (as we hope), numberless labourers will be needed for working in this vineyard” 2. Again, in January, 1604, the Provincial Laerzio informed Fr. General that “the Residence of Chandragiri in the kingdom of Bisnagar (Vijayanagara) was an enterprise of great importance. We expect many conversions there. If but one of those chiefs wishes to be baptised, the rest, it seems, will follow his example” 3. Laerzio repeats the same in 1605 4. Such were the hopes of the Jesuits of those days that the King of Spain, Philip III, evinced much interest in the affairs of this mission, not precisely for political motives, but on account of his zeal for the propagation of the faith. Accordingly on December 23rd, 1604, he wrote to his Viceroy: “I expect you will inform me about the results obtained by those (Jesuits) who reside next to the King of Bisnagar (Vijayanagara)” 5.