ance of presents from favor-seekers, or engaging in different undertakings, contrary to law.[1]
One means intended to check corruption was the limitation of the office to three years.[2] This rule, however, was seldom adhered to, nearly all holding the power for a longer period, sometimes from twelve to fifteen years, several being twice appointed.[3] As an encouragement for good conduct, promotion was held forth to the higher paid viceroyalty of Peru, to the India Council, and other positions in Spain. Before leaving the country, this dignitary, like other high officials, had to submit to a residencia to be completed within six months; yet bonds were generally accepted.[4] He had also to leave a report on the condition of affairs with suggestions for the guidance of his successor.[5]
In case of death no regal ceremonies were permitted.[6] Usually a pliego de providencia, or mortaja,[7] existed wherein a successor was designated; otherwise, till the arrival of a new appointee, and also when the viceroy fell sick, the audiencia assumed the government with the president or regente for captain-general.[8]
- ↑ They could give preference in the sale of quicksilver, or favor traders for places and goods. Gage assumes that some of them made a million a year, and bribed courtiers in Spain to procure an extension of time. Voy., i. 224. On birthdays of the viceroy's consort, carriages, gold chains, and other costly presents flowed in from all directions, an incentive being given to donors bj' inviting them to comedy representations at the palace. Guijo, in Doc. Hist. Mex., série i. tom. i. 482-3.
- ↑ Cédulas of 1555, 1663, etc. Recop. de Ind., i. 56.
- ↑ Among others Velasco the younger. Mendoza ruled nearly 15 years; and three others from 12 to 14 years.
- ↑ Equivalent to about a year's salary.
- ↑ Under penalty of a year's pay. Yet many failed to comply, says Mancera, Instruc., in Doc. Inéd., xxi. 439; perhaps verbal communications with the successor were deemed sufficient.
- ↑ 'Los Oydores. . . no entren con luto en los estrados de la Audiencia.' Montemayor, Sumarios, 115.
- ↑ A document kept under seal, wherein the king named a successor in case of accident to the incumbent of this office.
- ↑ During later years the military sub-inspector assumed control of his department. Ordenes de la Corona, MS., iii. 158. Cédulario, MS., iii. 57 et seq. The archbishop had more than once been called to the office; but by cédula of 1739 the succession was declared inadvisable. The oidores during their rule had to furnish monthly reports of proceedings and were restricted in appointing officials and other privileges. Reales Cedulas, MS., i. 33-4.
