The viceroy, Count de Coruna, [6] regrets that I despatched ships to a point outside of Nueva Espana.  I can well believe that he has been persuaded to this view by the merchants interested in trade, as they do not wish the gains to be divided.  Those who consider the subject without prejudice, however, will understand the great advantages which might follow thereby to this country, in that people will come hither and commerce be opened upon all sides.

The affairs of this country are improving to such an extent that the cargo of this ship bound for Nueva Espana is worth four hundred thousand pesos.  It carries two thousand marcos of gold without taking into account the large quantity of goods intended for Panama.

In the past year, 81, there came from Nueva Espana three Theatins; and two priests, Father Antonio Sedeno [7] and Father Alonso Sanches, zealous servants of God and having great erudition.  They are doing much good, and I consider them as excellent persons for this country, and think that it would be advantageous to send more.

In some places which need defense I am having forts built, and for them artillery is constantly being cast—­although there is a lack of competent workmen, nor are there any in Nueva Espana.  It would be well to have master-founders of cannon sent from Espana.

I am also having some galliots and fragatas built, so that I may be supplied with vessels for both present and future emergencies.

This kingdom was thrown into great confusion by a decree in which your Majesty ordered the liberation of all Indian slaves held by Spaniards.  This affair has caused me much anxiety; for, if it should be immediately complied with, and put into execution without allowing any term of grace, this kingdom would be placed in a sad state for many good and very forcible reasons.  Of these, and of the measures which I took in regard to this, your Majesty will be informed at greater length.  Accordingly, I refer you to that report, and beseech your Majesty that the decree be greatly amended, since this is a very important matter.

By the death of Salvador de Aldave, who served as treasurer of your royal estate, in place of the master-of-camp, Guido de Lavecares (the proprietary holder, who died), I appointed to the said office Don Antonio Jufre, my step-son.  He came with me to serve your Majesty in these islands, and I consider that he possesses the necessary qualifications for the requirements of the office.  He has fulfilled its duties thus far; and now he has gone to the settlement of the city of Segovia, as treasurer and purveyor of the fleet.  I beseech your Majesty to have the goodness to ratify his appointment to said office.