and in a certain manner, the sickness and wretchedness that they
suffer--from which, together with the ordinary hardships and the
recklessness of some, many die.

It is advisable to bring the arms here on the account of your Majesty,
and not deliver them in Mexico to the soldiers; first that their
pay may not be lessened, and second that the soldiers may not lose
them on the way. Moreover, they will thus be brought from there,
and delivered to the men here, in better condition; and there will be
more weapons in this country. In conclusion, I assert that it is very
desirable that your Majesty order your governor and royal officials,
under very severe penalties, that this pay assigned by your Majesty to
the soldiers for the purposes indicated, be strictly and inviolably
kept separate in the treasury or in a separate account, and be paid
to the soldiers every four months, on the very day when it is due; and
that payment be not deferred or delayed for any reason or cause. For,
if the requisite system and order be observed in this, there can be
no lack of money; but, on the contrary, I think there will be a great
superabundance, if it is not spent for other things. Will your Majesty
order that this be not done for any reason whatever--unless, on some
occasion, after the third due has been paid to the soldiers, it may be
necessary to spend some of the money; but the pay shall be left sure
and certain, so that it be not wanting or payment delayed. This would
be a great injury, and would cause or create risk of many wrongs,
and troubles of great consequence. I say once more, Sire, that it
is very important and very necessary that your Majesty order this
strictly under severe penalties, in order that it may be observed
and obeyed promptly--without admitting, under any consideration, any
excuses fof failure to perform it; for this would be greatly against
the service of God and of your Majesty, as the cause and occasion of
many wrongs, offenses, and evil deeds, as well as of wretchedness.

Whether the soldiers' pay be raised or not, it would also be a great
relief and assistance in many cases of need (which are usual in this
community), if your Majesty, for the love and service of our Lord
and that of your Majesty, would at least be pleased to institute in
the hospital--inasmuch as there is a hospital for soldiers, and the
sick poor--or in La Misericordia, a separate lodging and quarters for
needy well people. Those there who h