n the tributes, only one (and no more)
should be exacted, and the aforesaid collection of the three-fourths
should be general in all the encomiendas. There are no grounds for
making a discrimination between the Indian of the large encomienda and
the Indian of the small one; and if it is right to collect in the one,
the same procedure holds good in the other, for the same thing applies
to [four--M.] as to forty, which in this case would mean not to change
the present and past condition of things, or the universal practice
throughout all the Indias, by interfering with his Majesty's decree.

We should consider how little there is in this country besides
the tributes, for the support of the encomendero or such person
who has to represent him; and that, if the Indians should cease
to pay the tributes, all would go to destruction; and even were
religious instruction to exist, there would be no system for applying
it. This instruction, moreover, is not at present in the hands of
the encomenderos, for they have asked me, as I believe they have your
Lordship, to make provision for the same, offering the necessary salary
and expenses. Accordingly, since this charge is not in their hands,
the above means might be justly employed; so that the districts which
are disaffected might, with such intercourse, be prepared to receive
the gospel in due time.

This plan can be followed temporarily, until information concerning
it shall reach his Majesty--who, I assure your Lordship, will
straightway adjust the matter by providing these islands, as well as
those most distant and as yet unpacified, with sufficient religious
instruction; and by determining what share of the cost shall fall to
the encomenderos according to the detailed information and report
which shall be sent hence to him, together with your Lordship's
statement. Thus all will come to enjoy the fruits of the gospel,
which is our principal end and object with these peoples. In return,
they are to offer this moderate tribute, which is to facilitate
their conversion, to which end everything is directed; and to prepare
them for it by this means, without which there would be no way for
endeavoring to interest anyone, even if the tribute should amount to
many millions. But, with this justification, it can be levied.

The encomenderos shall maintain their residence, and, as your
Lordship justly suggests, shall provide a good example and fair
treatment toward the Indians of their