recognize that there was a controlling power in the land.[1]
Among other important results of his labors was the founding of the hospital of Santa Fé, two leagues from the capital town, Tzintzuntzan. From this institution, which was intended by the founder to be a centre for the propagation of Christianity[2] as well as an asylum for the sick, the natives derived great benefit. When Quiroga's residencia as oidor was taken in 1536 the erection of this establishment constituted the ground of a charge of oppression against him, but he was honorably acquitted.
After Quiroga's official visit the prospects of Michoacan were brighter. The establishment of a bishopric in the province and the election of this worthy man as prelate have already been mentioned. In 1537 or 1538 he returned to the scene of his previous labors and applied himself with unflagging zeal to the good government of his diocese. In order to inform himself of the condition and requirements of the different districts in his extensive see, he visited every portion of it in person, travelling on muleback for more than six hundred and fifty leagues, with no other company than his secretary and a page.
The success of his administration both as visitador and prelate was signally marked. The influx of friars was maintained with regularity, and convents and educational and charitable institutions were rapidly multiplied in Michoacan during this period. His powerful influence in the political government of the province is evidenced by the amelioration noticeable in the condition of the Tarascans. The wanderers in the mountains were won from their wild retreats, and settled in
- ↑ An oppressive encomendero had imposed exorbitant tribute upon the inhabitants of the town of Michoacan. Quiroga intervened and freed them from the exaction.
- ↑ 'Tlamolos de Santa Fé, porque en ellos se avia de propagar la Fé Catholica.' This hospital was, like the one in Mexico, placed under the charge of a rector with a stipend of 150 pesos de oro de minas. Such superintendent could only hold the incumbency for a term of three years, not 'in vim benesicij, sino como en encomienda.' Id., 14, 15.
