them to be on the offensive and defensive, and convey
to their own country the wealth that we see in the
Malucas, the value of which is evident in the armies
and other expenses that are incurred. From this
example, since the expenses of my royal treasury are
so heavy—inasmuch as the trade is carried
on only by conquest and force of arms—everything
is reduced to expense, and nothing to gain. In
order to make profit you are advised that the factory
of Terrenate should barter and negotiate, in order
that the profit obtained by the enemy might follow,
and more if possible. And if the natives of those
islands see that their property is not taken from
them, and if they are paid in the ordinary form, they
will grow fond of us and become converted to our friendship.
From that it will be possible to pass to other objects,
the chief one being the evangelical preaching.
Consequently, setting aside the universal gain that
might come to the royal treasury for the gain in a
specific case, the chief thing, and one which you
are to push thoroughly (or rather two things), is
the operation of mines and of factories for trade.
Fourth, that since you have already experienced the
utility that follows from sending those cloves to
the East, and using this merchandise for other purposes
and trade, you shall continue to do so. You shall
always send the detailed account about which you have
been advised, of everything that will be of importance
in this matter. Whenever any case of doubt occurs
to you in regard to the ceremonious observance due
your office, send the proposition that you shall have
made in the assembly, together with what resolution
shall have been made regarding it, so that after examination
here, just measures may be ordered; for in no other
manner could any decision be reached without depending
on the Audiencia. In order to gain time, letters
are being written to the Audiencia ordering them,
in accordance with what has been done at other times,
to maintain with you, in the condition of affairs
at present, the amicable relations and the respect
due your office and person; and to observe toward you
and your wife such ceremonies as have been observed
hitherto, and as are the custom. When there is
any doubt about the matter, I shall be consulted,
so that, having examined it thoroughly, I may provide
what is advisable for the public peace and for decorous
relations between the president and Audiencia. (Note
for a separate paper.)” [25]]
14th. Although it is my desire to restrain myself in this particular, in order not to drag on this letter to greater length, and for other considerations, certain of my obligations move me to say the things that I cannot avoid, because I have heard that the auditors claim that your Majesty should take from the office of governor and captain-general and president, the declaration and trial of suits that concern government and war—which your Majesty conceded to him, on account of those which were being tried then, and