lack of orders; for, although in the instruction it stated that a decree would be given me, that was not done.  There are usually many sick persons in this hospital, and although there is now an income of two thousand seven hundred pesos, more or less, much more is needed.  Money is necessary to build a couple of rooms where contagious diseases can be treated.  Those 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 this be favored and aided as much as possible, because the work is so necessary.  Give him this decree.”

“Granted.  Advise his Majesty, that another thousand pesos from vacant tributes be applied to this hospital for ten years, for the reasons given.  Let this notification be given immediately.  In regard to the blankets, inasmuch as he says they are unnecessary, direct the viceroy of Mexico to exchange these for whatever seems most needed.”

“Take possession of the hospitals for his Majesty, as patron of hospitals.  Have investigations made thereof, and of the accounts of whatever person may have the administration of them.  The bishop is to place no obstacle in the way, although, if he wishes to be present, he may attend the investigation.  Write this decision to the bishop.”]