On Ovando's arrival in the colony, Bobadilla was to undergo the ordeal of
a "residencia," a kind of examination well known and constantly practised
in Spain, to which Authorities were subject on going out of office--being
of the nature of a general impeachment. It is satisfactory to find, that
amongst the orders given to Ovando, there are some for the restitution of
the admiral's property, and the maintenance of his mercantile rights.

Just before Ovando took leave of the king, he received a formal lecture
upon the duties of a governor. The King, the Queen, and a privy
councillor, Antonio de Fonseca, were the persons present; and, as I
imagine, the latter addressed Ovando on the part of their Highnesses. As
it is not often that we have an opportunity of hearing a didactic
lecture on the modes and duties of government given in the presence of a
great master of that art, and probably looked over, if not prepared, by
him, we must enter the royal cabinet, and hear some part of this
discourse.

The first point which Fonseca impresses upon Ovando is, that before all
things, he is to look to what concerns the reverence of God and His
worship. Then he is to examine into the life and capacity of the men about
him, and to put good men into office; taking care, however, not to leave
all the authority in the hands of subordinates (here we may well imagine
Ferdinand nodded approvingly), to the diminution of his own power, "nor to
make them so great that they shall have occasion to contrive novelties,"
in order to make themselves greater. Also, let there be change of
authorities, so that many may have a share of profit and honour, and be
made skilful in affairs.

That he should use moderation in making repartimientos and tributes, not
overtaxing the people, which moderation would be furthered by his taking