eel resentment. Nor, after the inspection is finished, should the
inspector remain among friends or enemies who have much or little
property. Neither should he remain with those of whom there is any
doubt. They are fortunate if they are such men as are suitable for
this task, and if they proceed with rectitude, rigor, and example,
and with zeal for the glory of God, the service of your Majesty,
the welfare of this country, with a Christian and disinterested
heart. Since the above qualities are clearly in accordance with the
necessity and condition of affairs, Sire, it is very necessary that he
who makes the inspection for reform should possess them. On the other
hand, since it is very difficult to find such a man among the laymen
in this country and region--where the majority of those who live or
come here care only for their own plans and individual interests,
the increase of their possessions, and other things of much harm
(so that many suffer themselves to be led by others), and from which
it is advisable that those who exercise so necessary and important
a duty be free--I do not know, Sire, what remedy can be expected;
because the governor is called upon to select fit inspectors from
this country. This is something that never will be achieved; and this
condition of affairs will be perhaps a cause of greater loss, ruin,
and offense, unless your Majesty, with your most Christian and royal
heart, shall be pleased to render this matter safe, and entrust the
inspection to the prelates themselves, so that each one will make
it every two or three years in his bishopric and district. In fine,
Sire, considering the pain and grief that they suffer at seeing the
great loss and ruin of things, and the wrongs inflicted upon this
wretched people; and, on the other hand, their obligation to endeavor
to set things right, in case there should be added the authority
therefor, should your Majesty be pleased to grant the inspection to
them--considering all these things, and also their experience of the
conditions of the country (which is very important, since they are
servants of our Lord and fearless men, who will not proceed with the
same timidity and cautiousness as others), there is no doubt that they
will be able to bring matters into a clearer light, to advise your
Majesty, and to effect great reforms. At the same time the Indians
will conduct their suits with greater tranquillity, security, and
confidence, and at less cost. This