are the most frequent diseases in this land, on account of the heat
and humidity; and for their treatment a comfortable and well-situated
apartment is needed. Moreover, we need a kitchen and other work-rooms;
and salary for a chaplain, to confess and say mass for the sick and
administer the sacraments. He would have not a little to do. There
should also be salary for a doctor and apothecary, and money sufficient
to import medicines in bulk from Mexico. If they are bought here
there is not sufficient to pay the expenses. Hence the present income
cannot supply these necessities, unless your Majesty grant more,
as the income should be four thousand pesos. The blankets which your
Majesty orders brought from Mexico are not needed, as those of this
country are sufficient, on account of the heat here, and because our
blankets are cheaper. Consequently the money which is to be spent for
them could be better employed for other necessities. At the hospital
for the Indians, I have tried to make investigations of some Franciscan
brethren who are there. It were well that they be called to account;
because many things come into their possession, and much money is
handled, in the course of administration. Nevertheless, they would
give no account, saying that that hospital is not under the control
of your Majesty. The bishop upholds and sustains them in this course,
saying that until your Majesty endows that house and gives what is
needed therefor, your Majesty has nothing to do with that or other
pious works of this bishopric. They persistently shield themselves
with the habit of St. Francis, although they are but lay brethren,
through the artifice of the bishop. Your Majesty will accordingly
send the despatches which may seem expedient to the royal service,
as otherwise this matter cannot be attended to. [_Marginal note_:
"Send this decree, after taking note thereof, so that the sum stated
therein shall be paid over in Mexico. Have this decree framed and
sent, even though it has been despatched already. It is well that