As for the measures to be pursued in executing this
henceforth, no other rule can be given you more explicit than what you,
the Audiencia, and the royal officials shall find it practicable and
proper to apply.
It is likewise understood from thoroughly reliable persons who have
come from those islands--religious, and others who have brought letters
recommending them--that there are in those lands many well-known mines
of gold and other metals, which, if they were sought out, would be of
great utility and value; and that, if they were worked, their proceeds
would be sufficient not only for the expenses there, but even for the
aid of those here. These persons say that the reason why the mines
have not been operated has been a lack of energy and diligence for the
benefit and increase of the royal exchequer; and the fact that they
had the treasury of Nueva Espana as a protection, and so accessible
for all the expenses that have arisen. Accordingly I charge you very
particularly that, with the fidelity and promptness that is requisite
for so urgent a necessity, you will take measures to investigate this
matter, and obtain from it as much profit as you can; for the peaceful
products of the soil will always be certain, and it would be a great
pity to lose what might aid in so urgent a need. For this purpose you
will make an examination of all the mines that are or may be known,
offering rewards and other advantages, honors, and gratuities as may
appear expedient to you, in order that the mines may be discovered
and worked, as they should be, making the diligent endeavors that are
necessary in such an affair.
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