As I was informed that the said islands had but little instruction, and that great difficulty was encountered in providing it—­a difficulty that was rendered much greater because of the nature of the country, as it consists entirely of islands, most of which are so small that they contain from three to five hundred islanders and above, while some contain but one or two hundred; and likewise it is hindered by the long and dangerous voyage, the heat, rains, and poor roads of the country—­I ordered and commanded the said Gomez Perez in his instructions that, upon his arrival at the said islands, he should investigate very carefully matters in regard to the outlook for instruction.  I ordered him to confer with the bishop (whom he should charge in my name to aid him on his part), and, in accordance with his advice, to provide what was most advisable, so that the instruction might be distributed even to the bounds of the sea, to the extent possible in all parts.  I charge you likewise that this be accomplished with all the promptness and security demanded by its importance.  You shall endeavor to secure the reduction of the Indians into settlements, as well as possible, in the manner aforesaid.  You shall confer with the superiors, whom this matter concerns chiefly, so that—­as I am writing to them—­they may apportion the instruction where it is lacking.  In the meantime, more men shall be sent for this purpose, as has been done, and will be done, in accordance with the advices that are received from you, and from them, of the number needed and required.  Inasmuch as I have done for my part the utmost possible, as I shall continue to do, there is no room or plausible reason for the scruples that certain religious have raised about the tributes which are levied.  You shall endeavor, with the requisite prudence, to put an end to the past scruples; and if occasion arises for like scruples, or others, you shall order that, without any public offense or disputing, they advise me of their causes, in so far as they know them.  If these causes are just, then they shall be set right, in order that God our Lord may be served, as I desire.

You shall take most especial care for the well-being of the soldiers, and see that they are well paid, employed, and disciplined.  You shall endeavor to keep them useful and of service.  Those holding offices or other means of gain you shall not permit to draw pay.  You shall observe and cause to be observed for the said captains, officers, and soldiers, their exemption from arrest for debts contracted during the period of their service.  Nor shall execution be taken against the weapons, horses, or anything else needful and peculiar to the military.

Whenever you shall send any captain with men upon any commission or duty that may arise, you shall order that his privileges be observed also—­namely, what pertains to his ordinary power and requisite authority to order and punish inferiors, and to regulate all other military matters.  You shall see that these privileges are conceded to them, and that they exercise them, but shall declare that their jurisdiction extends solely to their soldiers.  You shall charge them to treat the Indians well, and to fulfil their command in such a way that the Indians receive no injury.  You shall exercise great care to punish openly any excess in this direction.