ions had to be signed by the viceroy. In addition to these appointments he was constituted acting captain-general, and empowered to assume the corresponding functions should circumstances render such a_ step necessary. His privileges and prerogatives were most ample, and although he was advised to consult with the audiencia on matters of importance, he was fully authorized, after receiving their opinions, to act on his judgment. The instructions given him for his guidance were explicit. All affairs of the government were placed under his direction. The prelates were to be consulted on ecclesiastical matters, the establishment and extent of bishoprics, and the erection of churches; and a full report thereon was to be forwarded to the king. Clergymen who caused scandals were not to be tolerated in the province, and such as had been frairs were to be sent back to Spain; the limits of the bishopric of Oajaca, which it was proposed to erect, were to be determined; the church patronage enjoyed by the crown was to be upheld, particularly the right of presentation to all ecclesiastical positions; ecclesiastical judges could have no power to arrest and punish civilians, and the audiencia was empowered to interfere in cases of appeal. Convents were to be reformed, and not allowed to become places of refuge for criminals.[1]
But though his Majesty was anxious for the proper spiritual government of his realm, his worldly interests were by no means left out of sight, and suggestions were made to promote the increase of the royal revenue.[2] The capability of the natives to bear in-
- ↑ The payment of church tithes by the natives was to be closely investigated, and an estimate made of what portion of them ought to revert to the crown. It was ordered, also, that in the existing convents the natives should receive better instructions, Pacheco and Cárdenas, Col. Doc., xxiii. 426-45; and they were to be encouraged in industrious habits, and to collect themselves into communities. No arms were to be sold to the natives, nor were they to be taught to manufacture them. Spaniards settled in Mexico were to keep offensive and defensive arms in their houses, and negroes were forbidden to carry weapons either publicly or secretly. Herrera, dec. v. lib. ix. cap. i. and ii.
- ↑ Mendoza, among other orders, was instructed to search for buried treasures in the great temples of Mexico, the king having been informed that
