from any Indian, in case that any
of the said Indians should flee through fear or any other reason, and
abandon their gold or other property to the power of the soldiers. It
shall immediately be sent to its owner, to show them, as above stated,
that the expedition is not being made there for their gold. On the
contrary, you shall endeavor, before the Indians, to attach very
slight importance to gold, alleging that it has but little value and
esteem among us. In all the above, and in whatever else may come to
your notice, you shall always govern yourself by, and conform as far
as possible to, the opinion of the undersigned members of the council
of war. You shall endeavor to direct everything that you do with the
great energy and resolution that can and should be expected from your
wisdom and prudence. In all things you shall regard the service of
God and that of the king our sovereign.

3. Rivers, so far as possible, shall be crossed only on well-made
rafts, and without any danger to the soldiers or overturning them in
the water.

4. On entering the country, possession of it shall be taken by notarial
attestation in his Majesty's name. The summons and protests made
shall be made through an interpreter, and by the religious fathers,
and by those others whom you deem most moderate.

5. As soon as you shall have come in sight of the district that you
are to seek, you shall send your message and protests, with show of
great love and moderation, so that the natives will admit our trade and
friendship, as above stated. You shall under no consideration permit
any soldier to violate any woman, or to offer to either mother or
daughter any uncivil or rough treatment. Rather you shall see that no
ill-treatment, or offenses to God, occur. You shall give the natives
some silks or gifts of slight value, which will be highly esteemed
among the Indians, and which will be a partial way of making them
understand that we do not go there only for their property, but in
order to give them ours, so that they will admit our friendship and
trade, which is beneficial to them.

6. You shall appoint what governor and other officials you deem
necessary in that district that shall render homage to his Majesty. You
may leave there some Spaniards, if you think that they will remain
with safety. This is left to your judgment.

7 If the natives will give the tribute peacefully, and without trouble
and willingly, you shall assign them the usual t