the ordinary.[1] But Coronado's ability, either as ruler or military commander, was not of an order that made him fit for the position.[2] This is clearly shown in his Cíbola expedition, wherein he pushed northward with great perseverance; but his want of control over his followers was lamentably evident; and the dissension among them, and the disorderly manner of his return, display weakness as a leader. Of his ability as a ruler, his administration and its results will enable the reader to judge.[3]
At the time of his appointment Coronado held the office of visitador n New Spain. The arrival of Cabeza de Vaca, and his report of what the natives had told him of wealthy cities toward the north, hastened his departure to Nueva Galicia. The viceroy was infected with the general excitement, as we have seen, and ordered Coronado to proceed at once to his province. It was arranged that Father Marcos de Niza should accompany him and make a preliminary exploration northward for the purpose of verifying Vaca's statements. Should he be successful in discovering the wonderful cities, it was determined that an expedition on a large scale should be sent to take possession of them.
Coronado departed from the capital during the latter part of 1538, and on the 19th of November, his commission having been recognized, he appointed the alcaldes and regidores of Guadalajara for the ensuing year.[4] He then proceeded to visit various districts of his province, portions of which were in a disturbed
- ↑ Although nothing is known of Coronado's previous services to the crown, Mendoza, in December 1537, mentions having brought them to the notice of the king, as also 'las calidades que en él hay para poder servirse dél en todo lo demás que en estas partes se ofreciere.' Pacheco and Cárdenas, Col. Doc., ii. 194-5.
- ↑ Castañeda, speaking of Coronado, says: 'Ce chef ne sut conserver ni son commandement ni son gouvernement. Ternaux-Compans, Voy., série i. ton. 1x. 18.
- ↑ Says Oviedo: 'El qual ni los dos enamorados que se dixo de susso no hiçieron daño notable en los indios ni en la tierra, sino á si mesmos.' iii. 168.
- ↑ Othe following day he delivered to Niza at Tonalá the viceroy's instructions relative to his projected explorations, Mendoza, Carta, in Pacheco and Cárdenas, Col. Doc., iii. 328.
