The important task of introducing the new régime in New Spain was confided by the crown to Licenciado Francisco Tello de Sandoval, of the council of the Indies. It was feared at first that the great authority with which he must necessarily be vested might create unpleasant feelings or jealousy with Viceroy Mendoza. After mature consideration, however, it was decided to trust in the loyalty and recognized discretion of both these high functionaries. But this was expecting too much of human nature, at least of Spanish nature; for not only was the visitador instructed to take the residencia of all the royal officials, including the members of the audiencia, but also that of the viceroy. He was further authorized to exercise the functions of an oidor, entitled to a seat and vote in the tribunal.[1]
Was it surprising that a cry of alarm was heard when those portentous tidings reached the colonists? There was a storm of excitement and indignation, and of resentment against the crown, such as subjects of Spain seldom dared to breathe before; execrations were hurled against the India Council, and, above all, against the unflinching Las Casas. It was known that no less a personage than a member of the India Council would be sent to publish and enforce the odious laws. Ina single day the fruits of incessant toil and dangers, the result of all their labor, were to be taken from them; life after all was to end in poverty and want.
While the encomenderos, who had been notified by their friends in Spain of what they might expect at the hands of Tello, were devising means to impede if
- ↑ Besides the general instructions concerning the new laws, Tello de Sandoval was authorized to exercise the functions of inquisitor, which office he held in Spain; and by a papal bull to extend or restrict bishoprics; to call a meeting of the bishops of New Spain for the purpose of determining what measures should be convenient for the spiritual welfare of the inhabitants; to improve colleges, hospitals, and churches, and encourage the erection of new ones; and, in fine, to attend to all matters of import to the colonies and the crown. Herrera, dec. vii. lib. vi. cap. vii.; Cavo, Tres Siglos, 1. 138-9; Puga, Cedulario, 94-8.
