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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a5ab6b6 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #54804 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/54804) diff --git a/old/54804-0.txt b/old/54804-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d531f40..0000000 --- a/old/54804-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,7128 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's The unwritten history of old St. Augustine, by Various - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with -almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license - - -Title: The unwritten history of old St. Augustine - -Author: Various - -Editor: A. M. Brooks - -Translator: Annie Averette - -Release Date: May 28, 2017 [EBook #54804] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE UNWRITTEN HISTORY *** - - - - -Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images available at The Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - -[Illustration: Founding of St. Augustine By Pedro Menendez, September 8, - 1565.] - - [Illustration: Text decoration] - - - - - THE - UNWRITTEN - HISTORY _of_ - Old St. Augustine - - Copied from the Spanish Archives - in Seville, Spain, by Miss - A. M. Brooks and - Translated - by - Mrs. Annie Averette - - [Illustration: Text decoration] - - - - -PREFACE - - -We take pleasure in presenting to our readers information connected with -St. Augustine never before published. It is composed largely of reports -and letters to the King of Spain, much of it written by Pedro Menendez -himself, and contains decrees and letters from the King to the Governor, -Generals and Officers having charge of the Florida Provinces. It has -been buried for over three centuries, in Seville, Spain. It is reliable, -having been written in old Spanish and guarded with care. It contains -facts for which many have sought in vain. The style in which it is -written is clear and comprehensive, without being diffuse or overdrawn. -It is the true history of our country. - - - - -CONTENTS - - -CHAPTER I--A. D. 1565 1 - -Royal Decree from King Philip II in reference to further discovery and -settlement of Florida--Officers and number of men appointed to go in the -Armada--Reports from the Armada after leaving--Report from Pedro -Menendez to his Majesty--The English and French have already settled -here--Necessity of Spaniards taking entire control--Letter from the King -to Pedro Menendez--Tells of English and French vessels reported to have -sailed for these Provinces--King sends Fleet with sailors, soldiers and -supplies that the person of Pedro Menendez may be guarded properly as -Governor and Captain General of the Province of Florida. - -CHAPTER II--A. D. 1565 13 - -Pedro Menendez gives an account to his Majesty of the Fort Matanzas -Massacre--Menendez and army escape from being made prisoners by the -French on account of a tornado--Because of the swollen river the Council -agree to make a land attack--Spaniards surprise and take Fort Matanzas -without loss of a single man--Killing over two hundred Frenchmen -and capturing Laudonnier--Find Indians enchanted with the -Lutherans--Shipwrecked Frenchmen found on coast--With hands tied behind -them are stabbed in the back by Spaniards. - -CHAPTER III--A. D. 1598 27 - -Report of Fernando Miranda, agent to the King, complains of -Governor--Espionage over vessels--Gives account of work of -negroes--Houses and churches built, land cleared--Soldiers assist in -repairing Fort--Report of Bartolome De Arguellas--Capture of rebellious -Indians--Sending some to Havana to be hanged, some to be -imprisoned--Casiques render obedience to the Governor who assures them -of his good intentions--Pedro Pertrene reports to the King of being -newly appointed to be Captain of a Garrison in Florida--Insufficiency of -salary to meet expenses--Because of long service to his Majesty implores -aid and satisfaction--Dona Maria Menendez, Casique, writes the King -asking aid in meeting the expenses of instructing the Indians in -Christianity and good government. - -CHAPTER IV--A. D. 1598 34 - -Extract from official report made by Gonzales Menendez Canso, Governor -and Captain-General--Six priests of the San Franciscan order murdered by -Indians--Lieutenant Eciga sent to see if any of the priests are still -living--Hears of one--Is refused permission to see him--After much -persuasion and many threats Friar Fray Francisco is delivered--Manner of -the death of the others is investigated--Fray Francisco makes a -statement in regard to the death of the other priests, is forbidden by -the Canons of the Church to reveal all--Notary Public Juan Ximenes -swears to the investigation of several Indians through an -interpreter--Execution of Indian Lucas as participating in the murder of -Fray Blas. - -CHAPTER V--A. D. 1600 49 - -Letter from one of eleven monks sent out by his Majesty to spread the -gospel--Report eighty churches in different Missions--Indians lazy and -improvident--Avarice of Governor causes dissatisfaction--People desire -his immediate removal--Fray Lopez, a Missionary, has converted many -Indians in twelve years of service, among them Don Juan, a Casique, who -stands highly among his people--His influence quells many -uprisings--Juan Nunez Rios complains of Governor in a letter to the -King--Begs for an open Port that the people may go back and forth and -trade--An officer asks to be allowed to serve his Majesty -elsewhere--Fray Blas De Montes implores that he may be allowed to come -to Spain for retirement--Gives account of a fire which burned the church -among other houses--Slow progress among the Indians--Advices that a -Bishop be sent--Report of Gonzales Menendez Canso to his Majesty--A -shipmaster bearing dispatches shipwrecked in storm--Governor aids him -from the Royal Treasury--Auditor from his Majesty arrives--Reports the -Garrison abounding in fruits and grain--Grieves over the death of the -Christian Indian Don Juan--Return of Fray Lopez from New Spain in good -health--Reports the money brought to establish a hospital--More money -needed for Garrison expenses--Francisco Redondo Villegas, Officer of -Customs, is not treated with the respect due his Royal Office by the -Governor--Reports affairs in a muddled condition--Soldiers well -drilled--Much land under cultivation--Wages small--Rations insufficient. - -CHAPTER VI--A. D. 1605-1608 67 - -Minutes of a Bull or Bill of Supplication to be presented to the Holy -See asking for concession of graces and powers for Catholic residents in -Florida--Minorcan families brought priest and monk with them--Wish new -privileges and graces granted--In regard to a Cedula from his Majesty, -which instructs as to duties on wine--Priests and Monks of Tasco use -Municipal monies for their own interests--Advises a change in the office -of Treasurer of the Royal Chest--Vessels carry important papers for his -Majesty lost--Favors shown to Don Francisco gratifies the people--Letter -from Pedro Ibarra to his Majesty says there is not sufficient support -for the Garrison--Solicits aid for a poor widow--Soldiers find amber in -a fish, for which Menendez exacts a duty--French and English pirates -cause much anxiety--A few captured, some imprisoned and ten -hanged--Visiting Indian chiefs so impressed with the religious services -and processions that they ask for friars to instruct their people--Asks -for assistance in building a fort at the mouth of Miguel Moro--Endeavors -to find the source of river San Mateo and Lake Miami--A garrison of -warlike people--Proposition to establish a Manager of the Inquisition to -subjugate and control them--Does not wish to let certain priest and -captain--Report of Juan Menendez Marquez--Deplores the decision to -reduce the garrison--Advises a return to the policy of Pedro Menendez, -his cousin--Desires permission to come to Spain to more fully lay the -condition before his Majesty. - -CHAPTER VII--A. D. 1622-1640 82 - -Report of Antonio Benavides to his Majesty--The Spanish King instructs -the establishment of friendly relations with the English of the -Carolinas--Don Francisco Menendez with other officers sent out--Mission -fails owing to the English not having yet received instructions from -London--Requested the removal of an English fort built on Spanish -territory--Refusal--The matter fully laid before his Majesty--Report of -Luis De Rojas--A Frigate sent out to assist a fleet in bringing -supplies, run down by an enemy, boat stripped and burned, soldiers and -crew escape to shore and finally reach the garrison--They collect -Indians and soldiers and return--The enemy take to their launches and -escape--Forty-seven persons only saved from a Spanish Fleet which had -been captured by a Dutch Fleet--Recommends that his Majesty build a fort -at the bar of the place called Jega--Report of Luis Ussitinez to his -Majesty--The Mandate of the King carried out for prayer to Almighty God -for the success of the King’s arms taken up against France--At a meeting -of the Board of the City Council of Havana appears a clergyman of the -Holy Office of the Inquisition with an Auto from the Señor Comissionado, -Don Francisco de las Casas, containing instructions as to certain -ceremonies in connection with the Inquisition. - -CHAPTER VIII--A. D. 1655-1657 96 - -An anonymous letter to his Majesty--Death of Governor Benito Ruid -Salazer--Two others appointed to serve _pro tem._ die suddenly of a -contagious disease--Certain related officials gather in the night and -elect Don Pedro Ruitinez Governor--A distressing condition follows--The -people’s money squandered--Officials intimidated and abused--Material -sent for repairing Fort used to barter with the Indians for amber and -the money used by the Governor and Treasurer--Consults his own pleasure -as to obedience to church laws and vows--A report from Diego Rebolledo, -1657, as to the necessity of guarding the Ports of the Province owing to -pirates and as a prevention from the enemy entering and entrenching -themselves in some of the distant but rich Provinces--The Friars object -to the fortifications as the Spaniards would retard the conversion of -the Indians--The Governor thinks the real reason is, that because of the -present condition the Friars are the masters of the Indians--A Friar -reports to his Majesty that owing to the Governor insisting upon some -Indian chiefs carrying heavy burdens of corn, when there were vassals -for such labor--The chiefs cause an uprising--They march into the -Garrison and hang the Governor--The Island of Jamaica heavily fortified -by the English who intend taking Cuba, so it is rumored. - -CHAPTER IX--A. D. 1662-1670 107 - -Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez reports the auditing of accounts and condition -of the Royal Treasury--Finding of large nuggets in a hill, supposed to -be a silver mine--Goes to investigate--Report of Juan Cebadilla to his -Majesty of having sent out the King’s orders concerning who shall keep -the keys of the Royal chest--Administration of the negroes--Harshness -shown the Royal employees--Francisco Guerra Vega reports a Captain of -the Garrison for indecency and offense to his superiors, for which same -he was reprimanded and imprisoned as a warning--Afterward given his -liberty--The King to the Captain-General of Provinces of -Florida--Instructions as to the continuance of the passage to Marcana -Guale--Founding of the town of Santiago--As to the performance of -certain duties by soldiers, for which money shall be paid--Soldiers -shall be permitted to raise their crops, and not employed in personal -work for the Governor--The Governor shall look after the wants and needs -of his people--By order of the King, 1670. - -CHAPTER X--A. D. 1671-1673 112 - -Pedro Menendez received the title of Governor by right of conquest, and -Captain-General and Commander of the Fleet by conference of his Majesty -for faithful, valorous service--Don Martin Menendez receives the title -of perpetual Governor by right of inheritance--Important papers burned -at Simancas--Manuel De Mendoza reports to his Majesty as to the designs -of the English enemy--Discovery of the South Sea--Condition of this -Garrison and other Provinces--Implores aid in completing -fortifications--Report to his Majesty by Francisco De La Guerra y Vega -concerning an Englishman taken prisoner in the Province of Guale--One of -a crew sent out from a settlement of English at St. Elena--This man who -was second in authority was confined in prison on soldiers’ rations--An -effort made to break up the English settlement, which was unsuccessful. - -CHAPTER XI--A. D. 1675 121 - -Letters to the King from the Governor Pablo Ita Salazer--Oath of office -administered in the tower of the old Fort which is rapidly going into -ruins--The Garrison needing supplies and ammunition--No warehouses, and -owing to the distance and frequency of storms delaying supplies, the -people are forced to hunt in the woods for roots to appease their -hunger--The Fort in danger from pirates--Ammunition and guards exposed -to the fatalities of the weather--Pleads for more money to complete the -Castle--Its great importance--A pentagonal shape recommended--The -Viceroy of Spain fails to send the ten thousand dollars--One hundred men -needed to guard the Castle--Great danger from pirates--Two hundred -leagues from Havana and five hundred from New Spain. - -CHAPTER XII--A. D. 1675 130 - -An effort made to dislodge the English from Santa Elena--Governor -ordered to complete the Castle and defense of the Garrison--Yucatan -families--Master weavers asked for to settle in Florida--Appalache -considered the best Province for settlement--Supplies sent from New -Spain--Barracks to be made in the Fort for the soldiers--Money sent to -finish the new Castle, also supplies for the soldiers--The neighbors to -assist in building the new Castle--Repairs on the bulwarks of -Guale--Increase of troops for St. Augustine--A fortress ordered built at -Appalache. - -CHAPTER XIII--A. D. 1680-1685 136 - -Letter from Pablo Ita Salazer to his Majesty--Indians of the Province of -Guale declare themselves friendly to the English, and make war upon the -Spaniards of the Island of St. Catherine--They surprise the six -sentinels, killing all but one who escaped and gave warning--The people -gather in the convent of a Friar and defend themselves from day light -until four o’clock, when aid reaches them from the Garrison of St. -Augustine, whereupon the enemy retires--The natives of the Island -greatly alarmed--Disquieting news of the intentions of the enemy upon -this Garrison--Implores aid from the King quickly, that the English may -be ejected from the land--Don Juan Marquez Cabrera, Governor and -Captain-General of Florida--Gives account to his Majesty of hostilities -in the Provinces--Two Fleets, French and English, going and coming from -Havana--Seize Fort Matanzas and, after plundering, burn it to the -ground--Is now being rebuilt--Great depredations committed up and down -the coast by the enemy--Pushing the work on the Castle--Grieved over its -slow progress, owing to lack of workmen--Begs to be allowed to retire -because of age and long service--To Charles II, our principal Casique, -the King--From the people of the territory of Habalache--The King to the -Governor and Captain-General of Florida--Concerning ten negroes from St. -George, who asked for the water of baptism--A Sergeant-Major from St. -George comes to claim them--Because they have become Christians the -Spanish King decides to buy them--After receiving a receipt they are to -be set at liberty, each one given a document to that effect--The King -reprimands Don Diego Quiroga for not attending to these matters--Orders -a full account to be sent as soon as it is accomplished. - -CHAPTER XIV--A. D. 1689-1698 147 - -Letter of the Governor and Captain-General of Florida, Don Diego Quiroga -y Losada, to his Majesty--Giving an account of a custom obtaining in the -Garrison which endangers the safety of the people--When the Host is -taken out in the night to administer communion to the dying the bells -are rung until its return which is often hours, thus preventing the -hearing the firing of the sentries across the river who are instructed -to fire as often as there are numbers of vessels sighted--This danger -fully laid before the Priest, who refused to discontinue the ringing of -the bells, notwithstanding the city has been in arms awaiting the enemy -for some days--In a Cedula by his Majesty of July 18th, 1674, he asks -for a statement concerning the order and place of the Holy Tribunal of -the Inquisition--These questions answered by Severino Mausaneda March -17th, 1690--An account of a military review in St. Augustine by Governor -Don Diego Quiroga y Losada--Also recounts the great advantage to the -City by building a sea wall to extend from the Fort the entire length of -the City thus securing it against the sea which at present comes up to -the houses during a storm--The soldiers and citizens subscribe ten -thousand dollars, and the King is petitioned for aid that the citizens -seeing his Majesty’s interest will be encouraged to proceed--The King -rebukes Governor Don Diego Quiroga y Losada of the city of St. -Augustine for unjustly taxing the Indians--Misappropriating funds sent -by agreement for canvas and provisions for them--Not attending to their -wants and comfort and treating them alone as vassals--Extracts from the -investigations of the Council as to alleged excesses committed by the -Governor Don Francisco Moral Sanchez--His ill treatment of a Captain of -Grenadiers--Acting according to his own will and not to military -law--The Governor’s removal desired--A report according to the King’s -command concerning affairs under Governor Don Francisco Morales -Sanchez--Investigation shows that the facts set forth in the different -papers and petitions sent to his Majesty to have been only too -true--Impossible to put upon paper the strange, divers and extraordinary -excesses committed by this Governor--The abuses sufficient to chill the -soul and congeal the blood. - -CHAPTER XV--A. D. 1708-1723 163 - -Francisco Córcoles y Martinez in a letter to his Majesty reports all -possible measures taken to prevent the destroying of this -Province--Indians from the villages bordering on the Carolinas, aided by -the English, each day carry off certain families, Christians and -natives, more than ten thousand having been carried off to -date--Probably sold into slavery--A Treaty urged with the English of the -Carolinas, else there will be a continuance of hostilities and the -spread of the Gospel impeded--In a second letter the Governor gives an -account of certain Friars in a dispute with the Priest of the Parish -concerning the rights to marry soldiers, Spaniards, Indians and -half-breeds--The matter laid before the Governor, who in turn refers it -to his Majesty--Recommends the abolishing of all Heathen customs--By a -Royal dispatch, A. D. 1721, the Governor of Florida is commanded to go -in person to the Governor of the Carolinas and arrange with him a Treaty -of Peace between the English and Spanish of those Provinces -adjoining--Which same was carried out as far as possible--Trinkets and -clothing sent to the Casiques and chiefs of Apalachicola as -commanded--Indians restless making preparations for war--English -spreading dissatisfaction--A Council of war decides to send a vessel to -Havana to the Governor asking for men, arms and provisions. - -CHAPTER XVI--A. D. 1736-1739 174 - -Governor Señor Montiano in a letter to his Majesty says: It is reported -that Don Diego Oglethorpe has said openly “that should he receive orders -from his Government to fix the boundary lines between the Spanish -possessions and the Carolinas, he would so delay its execution that -there should never be a sign of these limits”--Montiano thinks “it will -be impossible to ever discuss matters of importance with such a man and -it will be best that he be removed”--An Indian, Juan Ygnacio de las -Reyes, gives himself up to the English, under pretext of having killed -an Indian, to gain information concerning the strength and intentions of -the English toward the Spanish--After misleading the English as to the -strength and numbers in the Spanish fortifications, he makes his escape -and returns to this Province--Statement of what has been ordered for the -aid of Florida Provinces--The dislodging of the enemy from certain -settlements on its territory up to 1674--Dispatch of 1675 commands that -if the negro slaves sent to Havana have not already been sold, they -shall be sent to Florida to be put to work upon the construction of the -Castle to relieve the Indians. - -CHAPTER XVII--A. D. 1741-1743 185 - -A letter from the Governor Francisco Córcoles y Martinez--Conduct of the -Christians worse than the Heathen--Soldiers guarded while cutting timber -to repair the Fort--The Castle in a tumble-down condition--The Garrison -to be maintained for the propagation of the Holy Gospel and to shelter -the workers of the Apostolic faith--A paper of representation to his -Majesty concerning certain properties willed to the Royal Treasury by -Don Francisco Menendez, and designated by the King for use as -hospitals--The Royal Officers of the Province think these properties -should be sold at auction, and the proceeds applied to the back pay of -soldiers who are suffering and in need. - -CHAPTER XVIII--A. D. 1770-1771 191 - -A letter of resolution to his Majesty concerning a letter of appeal made -to the Governor and Bishop of Havana asking for patent and Holy oil to -administer baptism and extreme unction to the Catholic families taken -from the Island of Minorca by the English--These families bringing with -them Don Pedro Campos, Doctor of Sacred Theology, as a Parish Priest, -and Don Bartolome Casanovas of the St. Augustine order as Vicar--These -same claiming to have received their appointment from the Supreme -Pontificate, not knowing to which Bishop the jurisdiction of Florida -belonged--In order that a thorough investigation may be made the whole -matter was referred to his Majesty--Letter of the Archbishop of Valencia -concerning this matter--Letter of the Bishop of Cuba to his Majesty, -expressing gratification over the zeal of his Majesty in this -matter--Advices that the privileges be conferred--Letter of the Bishop -of Minorca giving information concerning same. - -CHAPTER XIX--A. D. 1771 204 - -The opinion of the Judge--Having examined the different letters from the -Bishop and made a thorough investigation into the matter concerning the -granting of certain privileges to these Priests of the Minorcan families -of the English colony of Florida, decides that these privileges should -be granted as per reasons set forth in his written opinion, Madrid, -1771--Bishop of Cuba for the Council to Dr. Don Pedro Campos and the -Rev. Father Bartolome Casanovas, extending to these same Priests the -title of Parish Priest and Vicar--Also sending a box containing three -flasks of sacred oil--Hopes soon to be able to send a more extended -prorogation of other powers--King solicited these powers from the Court -of Rome--Asks for a detailed report of the number of families and -condition of the congregation. - -CHAPTER XX--A. D. 1773 214 - -Proceedings of the Council at the Court of Rome concerning the appeal -made by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic families established -in the English colony of Florida--The different Bishops’ letters--Also -those of the Priest and Vicar asking for patent and further privileges -and containing a report of the condition of the said Minorcan families -who are dissatisfied with the lack of spiritual comforts--A brick -church, and are very devout--Of their desire to throw off the yoke of -Great Britain and their love for Spain--Reply of the Judge--Testimony -sent by the Bishop of Cuba. - -CHAPTER XXI--A. D. 1773-1786 226 - -Letter from the King to the Bishop of Cuba concerning the petition -soliciting an extension of time and of the privileges for the Priest and -Vicar of the Minorcan families in Florida, and enclosing an open mandate -of His Holiness, enlarging and extending the time for twenty years--A -copy of a letter and statement sent in by Lieutenant Don Nicolas Grenier -in regard to the importance of the Provinces of the St. Marys and St. -Johns rivers--The need of vessels to impress and control the -inhabitants--Provinces rich in timber, turpentine, tar and -pitch--Considers it detrimental to Spanish interests for Americans to -introduce any commerce in the Provinces--Letter from the same Don -Nicolas Grenier to the Governor urging the necessity of further -protecting Spanish interests along the St. Marys and St. Johns -rivers--Tranquility of the country jeopardized by outlaws--Some have -been arrested and paid the penalty with their lives--Matter referred to -the Governor--1774. - - - - -The Unwritten History - -_of_ Old St. Augustine - - - - -CHAPTER I. - -A. D. 1565. - - _Royal Decree of King Philip II in regard to the further discovery - and settlement of Florida--Officers appointed--Number of men to go - in the Armada--Captains and men to be paid in advance, to increase - diligence in service--Reports from the Armada after leaving--Pedro - Menendez reports that the English and French have already settled - here--Necessity of the Spaniards taking entire control of the - country--Letter from the King to Pedro Menendez in regard to - English and French settlers._ - - -ROYAL DECREE. - -THE KING. - - _To our officers who reside in the City of Sevilla in charge of the - India contracts_: - -I have named the captains, as you will see, from the description shown -by General Eraso, that they may enlist the 1400 men who are to go to -Florida in the Armada which we have ordered equipped, instructing them -immediately upon their arrival what they are to do, and notify me of -their safe arrival. You must be immediately notified when the men are -gathered together, and as it is expedient with each captain, you are to -send a responsible person that he may pay each man one month’s salary in -advance from the treasury on the day he enlists. It will cost, we -suppose, upwards of 11,000 ducats, that they may go provided according -to instructions received. You are to give each captain a copy of the -order sent, that he may be sure of his men--who, receiving this aid, -neither he nor they be deceived. I also command that according to these -orders you instruct the paymasters so that they may well understand that -each soldier is to have the money in his own hands so that there be a -good understanding between us. This is paid to them as it will be a long -and arduous campaign, and so that they may work with more zest and the -town be established quickly. See that the captains go at this work with -diligence and haste, and you must immediately see and attend to where -you are to lodge these people and from there embark them. Send with them -a person of trust to guide and lodge them and to see that they are well -provided with food and all necessaries for their money. Keep them well -together without disorder or vexation to the people of the land. Inform -me of how you have provided for them and you will have served me. From - -BOSQUE DE SEGOVIA. - -August 15th, 1565. - - * * * * * - - -REPORT OF DON TRISTAN DE LUNA Y AVELLANO, CONCERNING AFFAIRS IN FLORIDA. - -The Armada which went to found the town in Florida at the place called -Santa Elena in the port of Juan Ponce on the eleventh of June, and -sailed with good and mild wind. On the seventh day out we were on the -river Espiritu Santo, twenty leagues south of said river, in 27th -degree, from there we sailed six days to the southeast and south until -we found ourselves in the chain. South from there we sailed north in -search of the coast of Florida, and at the end of the eighth day, which -was the eve of the visitation of Saint Elizabeth, we discovered the -coast of Florida eight leagues to the west where the Armada cast anchor -and took on water and wood. Now we began to have rough weather. From -there the fleet sailed on the eighth of July in search of the Port -Achusa, sending ahead along the coast a frigate, the pilot not knowing -exactly where Port Achusa was. The Armada passed ahead and anchored in -the Bay of Phillipina, which was discovered by Julio de Labazares, from -whence the Governor sent to seek Port Achusa, having heard that it was -the best and safest port on all that coast. Navigating along the same -coast where the Armada had come, they found Port Achusa which is twenty -leagues from Bay Phillipina and thirty, more or less, from the Bay of -Miruelo, so that it is between two bays--latitude 30 1-3 degrees. On the -return of the frigate with the news, we immediately determined to set -sail with the Armada. It seemed best to have the horses go by land, so -we put them off in said Bay of Phillipina, thus some of our captains -made the trip overland with one hundred and forty horses, out of the two -hundred and forty we started with, the others having died at sea. On the -bar of Phillipina we had some trouble with the Armada in crossing, on -account of its shallowness for the larger vessels, also the strong and -swift current--besides the weather had changed, and it was rougher. The -Armada left Bay Phillipina for Achusa on the 10th of August, the day of -St. Lawrence, and it entered Port Achusa on the day of Our Lady of -August, for which reason we gave it the name of St. Mary of Phillipina. -It is the best port discovered in the Indias. The shallowest part at the -entrance is eleven cubits, and after you enter there are seven or eight -fathoms. It is spacious, having a front of three leagues, the Spaniards -are already there. The entrance of the bar is half a league in width, on -the eastern coast is a cliff at the mouth of the bay, and large vessels -can anchor in four or five fathoms within a stone’s throw from land. It -is so safe that the winds and storms cannot hurt one. We found a few -Indian ranches, they seemed to be fishermen. Judging from appearances it -seems to be a fertile and good soil. There are many walnuts and many -fruit trees--good hunting and fishing and good in many ways. We also -found some plantings of corn. On the 25th of said month of August, the -Governor sent Don Tristan de Avellano in a galleon, of those we brought, -for this, from New Spain, with the news of all that had happened so far. -He entered the Port of San Juan de Ulloa on the 9th of September. He -will supply himself quickly with provisions, which at present we have -sent to ask for, and we expect the boats to return soon. They will again -go to this New Spain, and wait there to see the lay of the land, and -where we are to found this town, and understand all the particulars and -qualities to inform you. - -When the boats return I will give the details to your Majesty in the -order that the Governor, Friars and other Officers write me, and I shall -be careful to aid them in the name of your Majesty with everything that -they need, so they may not vex the natives, but give themselves up to -friendly intercourse with them, until the time for planting grain. In -future it will not be so expensive, the ground being so fertile we can -gather large harvests, thus serving and exalting your Majesty and the -Catholic faith of Our Lord. - - * * * * * - - -To His Catholic Royal Majesty Pedro Menendez says: - -That what he sends your Majesty is what he declares to know of the coast -and lands of Florida, and of the corsairs whom it is said have gone to -populate it and seize the vessels coming from the Indias--and the damage -they may do, and the remedy to be used in cases where they should have -settled. Give them no quarter, and appropriate the coast and lands so -that they can be the more easily turned out--that your Majesty can send -to spread the Gospel, prevent the damages that can be done the vessels -coming from the Indias is as follows: That while in Sevilla last May, he -knew and understood positively from persons coming from the Canary -Islands that they had been on the Island of Teneriffe and Port Garachico -with a Portuguese named Mimoso, who is a pilot on the run of the Indias, -and has a wife and home in France, that he has become a pirate, seizing -the vessels of your Majesty. He carried four men of war, and it was said -he was going to settle the coast of Florida; that two other large -vessels were awaiting him, as soon as he took on water and provisions in -that port, and he saw them there in a small vessel without disembarking -for five or six hours, where some of the people who wish to be under -them came to speak to them. He then returned to his vessel and set sail -to return to the Indias. Also, that he heard in Sevilla and in this -court of your Majesty that the English had gone out with a fleet to the -coast of Florida to settle and to await the vessels from the Indias--and -about a month ago he learned that five large English galleons with heavy -artillery had passed about the end of December along the coast of Gaul -and the tempest had driven them into the harbor of Ferrol, where they -were anchored for a day and a half without landing, but the fishermen -had gone on board to speak to them, and he says: If the above be true, -and the English, French or any other nation should feel disposed to go -and settle any part of Florida, it would be very damaging to these -kingdoms, because on said coast of Florida and in said strait of the -Bahamas, they could settle and fortify themselves in such a way, that -they could have galleons and vessels of war to capture the fleets and -other private vessels that came from the Indias, and pass through there, -as they would run great risk of being captured. - -Also, that if last summer the French and English went to Florida as we -are certain they did, and should have settled and built a fort in any -port, and summered there, giving notice to their home government as to -how they are situated, and should they be supplied this summer before we -can raid upon them, and turn them out, it would be very difficult to do -so on account of the friendship formed by them with the natives who -would help them in such a way as to cause serious difficulty, and even -should we finally succeed the natives would remain our enemies, and -this would be extremely disadvantageous. Should they be supplied this -summer the merchantmen which we expect from the Indias would also run -great risk of being captured. Also, that it would be very annoying to -have the above mentioned or others settle in Florida. Considering the -proximity of the Islands of Santo Domingo, Puerto Rico and Cuba, where -there are such vast numbers of negroes and mulattoes of bad disposition, -there being in each of these islands more than thirty negroes to each -Christian. And it is a land in which this generation multiplies with -great rapidity. In the power of the French and English, all these slaves -would be freed, and to enjoy their freedom would help them even against -their own masters and lords and there would be an uprising in the land, -and with the help of the negroes it would be easy to capture us. As an -example of this, take Jacques de Soria, France, which in the year -fifty-three, with one boat of a hundred tons and eighty men, by simply -freeing the negroes, took and plundered the Islands of Margarite and -Saint Martha, and burned Carthagena, plundered Santiago de Cuba and -Havana, although at the time there were two hundred Spaniards there. -They took the Fort with all it contained, and twelve pieces of bronze -artillery and carried them all off. I consider these negroes a great -obstacle to having the French or English settle in Florida or to have -them so near, even though they should not be in favor with these two -nations, there is danger of an uprising as there are so many cunning and -sagacious ones who desire this liberty that I feel sure the design of -those who should settle in Florida is to domineer over those islands, -and stop the navigation with the Indias, which they can easily do by -settling in said Florida. Also he says: That on account of these dangers -and many others, it seems to him it would be to the service of God Our -Lord, and your Majesty for the general good of your Kingdoms the Indies -it would be well for your Majesty to try and domineer over these lands -and coasts, which on account of their position, if other nations should -go on settling and making friends with the Indians, it would be -difficult to conquer them, especially if settled by French and English -Lutherans, as they and the Indians having about the same laws, they -would be friendly, and being near could rule and each year send out a -thousand vessels to easily treat and contract with these lands which are -said to be fertile and prolific for sugar plantations, which they so -much need and are supplied from these Kingdoms. There might also be many -cattle good for their tallow and wool and other necessities. What seems -to him that your Majesty should do in the service of God and your -Majesty’s and for the salvation of so many souls, and the aggrandizement -of your kingdoms and your royal estates, is as follows: - -As there are neither French nor English nor any other nation to disturb -them, that your Majesty should send five hundred persons, sailors, -laborers, etc., and that among them should be one hundred master -carpenters, blacksmiths, plasterers and builders of mud walls, all with -their implements and appurtenances for every thing, with their arms of -defense, such as arquebuses, cross-bows, etc. That among this number of -five hundred people should be four Friars, four teachers and twelve -Christian children, so that the principal Indians would send their -children to school to learn to read and learn the doctrine of -Christianity. There should be three surgeons who would go about in small -boats, canoes or row boats with supplies for one year--go straight to -Santa Elena and from there find all the paths, rivers and ports most -suited and best, by land and water. See the condition of the land for -planting and settle two or three towns in the best vicinity, build their -fort, to be able to defend themselves against the Indians, that each of -these forts should have artillery and ammunition. All this supply with -the cost of the voyage will amount to eighty thousand ducats or more. -There will be left vessels enough to carry a number of cattle. These -must be sent from Spain, because in the Indias we could not find -suitable vessels nor head workmen of the necessary qualifications and it -could not give the desired results, besides the delay would cause much -damage. It would be difficult to find the proper kind of people, and -even if found the cost would be very much greater, as head workmen gain -very large wages in those parts, as do also laborers and sailors. From -Havana it would be still more impossible to bring them, as there are -none to be obtained, and if they have to settle they must go a long way -’round, as they cannot enter the mouth of the Bahama Channel, it being -as easy and quick to come from Spain as from Havana. It would be more -important that your Majesty do this at your own cost and as briefly and -with as secret a diligence as possible, and if your Majesty is not well -served in this, find some one in whom your Majesty can place more -confidence, confer with them and let them take charge of -affairs--although it would be far better for your Majesty to do this at -your own cost, and with all brevity and secrecy which is the most -important thing. Also, he says: That should there be French in this land -or on the sea awaiting the merchant vessels from the Indias, it would be -necessary to increase this squadron to four more galleons and one -thousand men, principally marines--the cost of which for six months -would be five hundred thousand ducats more or less. - -PEDRO MENENDEZ. - - -THE KING. - - - _To Gen. Pedro Menendez de Avilez, Knight of the Order of Santiago, - and our Governor of the Province of Florida_: - -Know--Having understood that from the Kingdoms of France and England -many war vessels have been sent out with a great number of sailors and -soldiers, with intent of going to that Province, and that now again they -are arming and equipping vessels for the same purpose at Havre de Grace -and other Ports of said Kingdoms of France and England. And that you may -do everything to defend yourselves and capture the Forts they have built -and thrust them from the land, that you may hold it in peace. You might -overlook the damage they have done to navigation. We have arranged for -and ordered 1,500 infantrymen to join you and those you have with you -and we send them with the fleet and also all the necessaries--and we -have provided as Captain-General of the fleet Captain Sancho de -Archimiaga, an expert and experienced man of the sea, ordering him to go -to said Province, and in joining you, it gives you protection by sea as -well as by land. Your flag alone must float, as our Captain-General, and -all undertakings must be done under your flag. And for all enterprises -to be undertaken by land we have appointed a Field Marshal and five -Captains to be under him, and that both they and the infantry are to be -directly under you as our Captain-General and Governor, because this is -our will, and we have expressly ordered it. That your person must be -carefully guarded. With your experience both by land and sea we are -perfectly satisfied, still, that you may the better succeed, and that -there may be conformity and good will, as it is important, affairs that -between you and said Captain Archimiaga and Field Marshal and the other -Captains accompanying him as they are men of much experience in war. It -is our will, and so we order you, that in all things occurring on sea as -well as on land concerning the war, you will call these Captains and -consult with them, more especially Captain Archimiaga and the Field -Marshal--that in this way alone must you decide upon questions of -war--because thus it suits us and our service. That I trust in them to -look into matters and provide all that is deemed advisable in such -undertakings--and they will follow and obey you as our Captain-General. -Let it be in such a way that there be good will and intelligence between -you--no dissensions or quarrels, which would be a great drawback, but -that you will proceed with mildness and consideration, as I feel assured -you will, proceeding to free those lands, and give no quarters to the -enemy to take root in them--and if it were possible, and there should be -no notable inconvenience, you divide the fleet. Captain Juan Zurita and -his company of Artillery go with the Infantry, as you will see. Of -their success you will see to it, and give an account. - -PHILIP II. - -Madrid, September 8th, 1565. - - - - -CHAPTER II. - -A. D. 1565. - - _Menendez reports that his army escapes from being made prisoners - by the French on account of a tornado--The Council agree to make a - land attack, the river being too much swollen for their - transports--The Spaniards surprise and take Fort Matanzas without - the loss of a single man, killing over two hundred Frenchmen and - capturing Laudonnier--The Indians enchanted with the - Lutherans--Shipwrecked Frenchmen found on the coast--With their - hands tied behind them they are stabbed in the back by the - Spaniards._ - - -FORT MATANZAS MASSACRE, 1565. - -I wrote to your Majesty from aboard the galleon San Salvador on -September 11th, this being the day she left Port. The duplicate of the -letter goes in this, and later on will send the other. While I was on -the Bar in a sloop with two small boats with artillery and ammunition -there came upon us four French galleons which had run us down with two -or three small vessels to prevent us from landing here. Taking the -artillery and provisions, although the weather was not propitious for -crossing the Bar, I preferred to take the chances rather than surrender -myself and one hundred and fifty persons, who were with me, into their -power. Our Lord miraculously saved us. The tide was low, there being -only one and a half scant fathoms of water on the bar, and their vessel -required one and a half long fathoms. They saw we had escaped them, as -they spoke asking me to surrender, to have no fear. They then turned to -search for the galleon, thinking we could not escape them. Two days out -a heavy storm and tornado overtook them. It seemed to me they could not -return to their Fort, running too great a risk of being lost, and to -return to capture us they would have to bring a larger force and of the -best they had. Thinking that their Fort would remain weak and it was the -right time to capture it I called a council of the captains, who agreed -with me, and decided to attack the fort by land. I therefore took five -hundred men, the three hundred arquebusiers, the rest pikemen, and with -these few, taking our knapsacks and putting in each six pounds of -biscuit and a measure of one and a half gallons of wine, with our arms -and ammunition; each Captain and soldier--I was among the first setting -the example, carrying this food and arms on my back. Not knowing the -way, we hoped to get there in two days, it being distant about eight -leagues or so, as we were told by two Indians who went with us as -guides. Leaving this Fort of St. Augustine in the order above described -and with determination on the eighteenth of September, we found the -rivers so swollen from the copious rains that it was impossible to ford -them and we were obliged to take a circuitous route which had never been -used before through swamp and unknown roads to avoid the rivers. - -After walking until nine or ten o’clock at night, on the morning of the -twentieth, which is the feast of San Mateo, we arrived in sight of the -Fort. Having offered prayers to the Blessed Lord and His Holy Mother, -supplicating them to give us victory over these Lutherans, it was agreed -that with twenty ladders, which we carried, to assail the Fort. His -Divine Majesty had mercy upon us and guided us in such a way that -without losing one man and with only one injured (who is now well), we -took the Fort with all it contained, killing about two hundred and -thirty men, the other ten we took as prisoners to the forest. Among them -were many noblemen, one who was Governor and Judge, called Monsieur -Laudonnier, a relative of the French Admiral, and who had been his -steward. This Laudonnier escaped to the woods and was pursued by one of -the soldiers who wounded him, and we know not what has become of him, as -he and the others escaped by swimming out to two small boats of the -three vessels that were opposite the Fort, with about fifty or sixty -persons. I sent them a cannonade and call of the trumpet to surrender -themselves, vessels and arms. They refused, so with the artillery found -in the Fort we sunk one vessel, the others taking up the men went down -the river where they had two other vessels anchored laden with -provisions, being of the seven sent from France, and which had not yet -been unloaded. It did not seem to me right to leave the Fort and pursue -them until I had repaired three boats we found in the Fort. The Indians -notified them of our actions. As they were so few they took the two best -and strongest vessels and sank the other. In three days they had fled. -Being informed of this by the Indians, I did not pursue them. Later from -the Fort they wrote me that about twenty Frenchmen had appeared in the -forest with no clothing but a shirt, and many of them were wounded. It -was believed that Monsieur Laudonnier was among them. I have sent word -that they make every effort to capture them and bring them to justice. -In the Fort were found, among women, creatures and children under -fifteen years of age, about fifty persons. It causes me deep sorrow to -see them among my people on account of their horrid religious sect, and -I fear our Lord would punish me should I use cruelty with them. Eight or -ten of the boys were born here. - -These French have many friends among the Indians, who show much feeling -at their loss, especially for two or three teachers of their hateful -doctrine which they taught to the Indian chiefs, who followed them as -the Apostles did our Lord. It is a thing of admiration to see how these -Lutherans enchanted the poor savage people. I shall use every means to -gain the good will of these Indians who were such friends to the French, -and there is no reason why I should break with them, and if I can live -with them at peace it will be well; they are such traitors, thieves and -drunkards, that it is almost impossible to do so. These chiefs and the -Indians, their enemies, all show friendship towards me, which I return -and shall continue, unless their depredations increase that I may have -to do otherwise. - -On the 28th of September the Indians notified me that many Frenchmen -were about six leagues from here on the coast, that they had lost their -vessels and escaped by swimming and in boats. Taking fifty soldiers I -was with them next morning at daylight, and, leaving my men in ambush, I -took one with me to the banks of the river, because they were on one -side and I on the other bank. I spoke to them, told them I was Spanish; -they said they were French. They asked me to come over to them either -alone or with my partner, the river being narrow. I replied that we did -not know how to swim, but that they could safely come to us. They agreed -to do so, and sent a man of some intellect, master of a boat, who -carefully related to me how they had left their Fort with four galleons -and eight small vessels, that each carried twenty-four oars with four -hundred picked soldiers and two hundred marines and John Ribaut as -General and Monsieur LeGrange, who was General of the Infantry, and -other good captains, soldiers and gentlemen, with the intention of -finding me on the sea, and if I attempted to land, to land their people -on the small boats and capture me. That if they had wanted to land they -could easily have done so, but they had not dared and wanted to return -to their Fort. That they were overtaken by a hurricane and tempest and -were wrecked about twenty or twenty-five leagues from here. That of the -four hundred only forty had survived; that the others had perished or -were killed by the Indians. That fifty were carried prisoners by the -Indians; that John Ribaut with his captain were anchored five leagues -from there in the swamp without trees, and he had in the vessel with him -two hundred persons, more or less, and they believed them to have -perished with all the artillery and ammunition, which was a great deal -and good. Part of it was with John Ribaut and what they had, was -certainly lost. They were saved, and he asked for himself and companions -safe passage to their Fort, since they were not at war with the -Spaniards. I then told him how we had taken their Fort and hung all -those we found in it, because they had built it without your Majesty’s -permission and because they were scattering the odious Lutheran doctrine -in these Provinces, and that I had war to fire and blood, as Governor -and Captain-General of these Provinces, against all those who came to -sow this hateful doctrine; representing to him that I came by order of -your Majesty to place the Gospel in these parts and to enlighten the -natives in all that the Holy Church of Rome says and does so as to save -their souls. That I would not give them passage; rather would I follow -them by sea and land until I had taken their lives. He begged to be -allowed to go with this embassy and that he would return at night -swimming, if I would grant him his life. I did so to show him that I was -in earnest and because he could enlighten me on many subjects. -Immediately after his return to his companions there came a gentleman, a -lieutenant of Monsieur Laudonnier, a man well versed and cunning to -tempt me. After much talk he offered to give up their arms if I would -grant their lives. I told him he could surrender the arms and give -themselves up to my mercy, that I might do with them that which our Lord -ordered. More than this he could not get from me, and that God did not -expect more of me. Thus he returned and they came to deliver up their -arms. I had their hands tied behind them and had them stabbed to death, -leaving only sixteen, twelve being great big men, mariners whom they had -stolen, the other four master carpenters and caulkers--people for whom -we have much need, and it seemed to me to punish them in this manner -would be serving God, our Lord, and your Majesty. Hereafter they will -leave us free to plant the Gospel, enlighten the natives, and bring them -to obedience and submission of your Majesty. The lands being extensive -it will be well to make them work fifty years--besides, a good beginning -makes a good end, so I have hopes in our Lord that in all He will grant -me prosperity and success, so that I and my descendants may give to your -Majesty those Kingdoms full and return the people Christians. My -particular interest as I have written your Majesty is this: We are -gaining great favor with the Indians and will be feared by them, -although we make them many gifts. - -Considering what John Ribaut had done, I find that within ten leagues of -where he was anchored, three of the vessels of his company were lost; -whether they were lost or not, they would have landed the people, -unloaded what supplies they could, employed themselves in getting out -the brass artillery and the upright posts and tackle, if not lost, of -the three vessels, rig themselves as best they could, and if the vessel -he was on was not lost he will make every effort to come by sea. Should -he do so I await him, and with the help of God, he will be lost. He -might also go inland with one of the Casiques, his friend, who lives -thirty leagues from here, and is very powerful. Should this be the case -I will seek him there, because it is not convenient that he and his -companions should remain alive. Should he come by sea to the Fort I have -the entrance to the Bar mined with two savage canon and guns, so that -should they succeed in making an entrance, we can sink them. A -brigantine is kept in readiness to capture the people and I shall do -all in my power to prevent his escape. The things found in the Fort were -only four pieces of brass of about five tons, the canon and guns which -had come from France were dismounted and carried to the galleons when -they went in search of me. There were found besides twenty-five bronze -musket and as much as twenty tons of powder and ammunition for these -pieces, about one hundred and sixty barrels of flour, twenty casks of -wine. The balance of the supplies had not been unloaded, as they were -hesitating whether they should fortify this Port, fearing I should land -here, which I could easily have done. Since their arrival they had spent -most of their time in debaucheries over the joy felt at the news they -had received that northeast of Santa Elena was a range of mountains -coming from the Zacatecas where there were great mines of silver. The -Indians from those parts had brought them many pieces of silver to the -amount of five and six thousand ducats. We found to the amount of three -thousand ducats, more or less, in clothes and all kinds of valuables; -some hogs, male and female; also sheep and asses; all this was ransacked -by the soldiers; nothing escaped them. Besides the two vessels found in -the Port we found two near the Bar and two others they had stolen from -the Indians, loaded with hides. Of these they had drowned the crews and -the cargo had been given to an English vessel to carry it and sell it in -England or France, and there remained with them two Englishmen. The -French had no mariners by whom to send these vessels. These two -Englishmen were hung when the Fort was captured by us. The Englishmen by -whom they sent the cargo arrived in port at the Fort we have taken from -them, the early part of August of this year, in a galleon of a thousand -tons called the Queen of England, with three heavy tiers of artillery; -all who saw her wondered and had never seen a vessel so heavily armed -that drew so little water; the other three vessels were smaller. It was -agreed between the English and French that as the French awaited help -from France that Monsieur Ludovic, who was Governor here, should wait -for them until the end of September; failing to return, he, Ludovic, was -to go to France in search of them, and that by the month of April they -would return with a large fleet, to await and capture the fleet of New -Spain, which was forced to pass their Fort; that if aid came, for which -they had written to France, they would advise the English who would come -to this coast by the month of April. It was for this purpose that I -found in the Fort a large vessel and seven small ones, and another five, -one or two of which had been stolen, and the four they wished to send to -France to have them equipped with men and provisions to join the English -and themselves by April; that by that time John Ribaut would have -returned and with the eight hundred men who remained he wished to go by -January to Los Martyres, about twenty-five leagues from Havana, and -there build a fort. They had reconnoitered and found it a very desirable -port. This was agreed between them, and that before leaving France John -Ribaut was to obtain the order that they should fortify Los Martyres, a -strait by which no vessel could enter or depart without being sighted by -them. To keep there always in readiness six vessels, it being the best -sea in the world for them. That from there they would take Havana, free -all the negroes; that they would then send to make the same offer to the -Spanish of Porto Rico and all other colonies. All this information I -gained from the skilful Frenchman to whom I granted life. They had with -them six Portuguese pilots whom they hung when no longer needed; two -others had been killed by the Indians, and two were with Ribaut. The -river San Mateo, running by the Fort we captured, goes seventy leagues -inland and turns to the southeast emptying into the bay of Juan Ponce, -and from there to New Spain and the port of San Juan de Luca, where -there is only upwards of fifty leagues. In the bay of Juan Ponce they -thought next year to build a fort on account of its proximity to New -Spain, distant a hundred and fifty leagues and about the same distance -from Honduras and as many more from Yucatan, and where with their six -vessels they could navigate with ease. On this river are three large -Indian towns. The Indians are great friends of the French who have been -there three times in search of corn. These French landed there in great -need of supplies, having only enough to carry them eight days. Corn they -found scarce and took it almost by force. The Indians themselves are -great thieves--a poor but brave people. All the Indians are not more -friendly to them than to us, and I will not consent to take a grain of -corn from them, but prefer to give them of what I may have. I consider -this country so vast and fertile and the danger from enemies and -corsaires so great and that they can appropriate to themselves the land -lying north of here near New Foundland, of which they are already lords, -and can be sustained by them with ease. Everything should be done to aid -me instead of cutting me off, and your Majesty must be undeceived and -know that I am much better able than your Majesty to enlarge and -aggrandize these your Kingdoms. This Port is 29½ degrees, and the San -Mateo which we captured is 31 degrees. The French and their pilots were -mistaken. I have had it taken by the sun on land. From here to the Cape -of Canaveral there are fifty leagues, three rivers, two ports between -here and Havana, one hundred miles, more or less, which are navigable in -boats among the keys of Canaveral and Los Martyres, and from there to -Havana. I agree to take the good field pieces which we have captured -from the French, and one hundred men go along the borders of the coast, -the boats by sea, anchoring at night near land among the keys of -Canaveral where the sea is as smooth as a river, with the boats they -will be able to discover among the keys the best port and surroundings -to build a fort. So that with the one in Havana and this one we can at -all times guard against the enemy and their entering to fortify -themselves. Nor should we expect fleets or boats of the Indians. With -the people of Havana, Santo Domingo and Pedro de la Roda, whom I shall -have to come to my assistance, I will have until the last of March to -build it, then with these vessels go over to Havana and seek these -people. Having discovered the Port, and on the arrival of Pedro de la -Roda in Havana he will find his vessels which I do not propose to take -out of that Port, also his men, so that he may return to Spain as strong -as when he left there. That I shall place one hundred and fifty -Spaniards in possession to guard against the Indians who are great -warriors and whose good will we must gain. Then, by the 1st of April, I -shall return to these two Forts, and in six or eight days I shall again -take to the sea. By the month of March, leaving these two Forts well -equipped and guarded each with three hundred men, I shall go in vessels -that draw little water which I will soon have here, most of them the -ones taken from the French. I will man as many as I can with five -hundred soldiers and one hundred mariners, found a town at Santa Elena, -which is fifty leagues from here, and has within three leagues of it -three Ports and rivers, the largest of six fathoms of water, the other -four fathoms; admirable Ports and the one we call Santa Elena is the -third, the one the French occupied is very small; the three are -navigable, one within the other, so that he who is lord of one is lord -of the three. It is the best place to build a fort leaving three hundred -men to finish it, pass on up the bay to Santa Maria, which is 36 -degrees, one hundred and thirty leagues beyond Santa Elena; then on to -the land of the Indians which is in Mexico, fortify another fort and -leave another two hundred soldiers. This will be the key to all the -fortifications of this country, because from those to the new land it -does not have to be founded. Inland, about eighty leagues, are to be -found a range of mountains, at their base an arm of sea which leads to -the New Land. This arm of the sea enters the New Land which is navigable -seventy leagues where there is another sea turning northeast and we -suspect it leads to the South Sea. The Indians send many cattle from New -Spain which were found on these plains by Francisco Basques Coronado. -They carried the hides to the New Land in canoes to sell to the French -in exchange for barter. From here, in the past two years, they have -carried in their fishing boats more than six thousand hides. The French -can go from here in their vessels to the foot of the mountain range four -hundred leagues from the mines of San Martin and New Galicia and can -mine them to their heart’s content. It would be well to fix our frontier -lines here, gain the water-way of the Bahamas and work the mines of New -Spain. This key and strength is necessary that your Majesty should -become Lord of all of it, because by it you will be master of the world. -I have written to Pedro del Castillo to send me three hundred soldiers -and supplies for eight hundred persons. It would be useless not to have -the three hundred soldiers to serve your Majesty and to provide the -necessaries. Thus on, from the first of February, your Majesty can send -a hundred mariners and the equipments and let them bring everything -necessary to found a town in the Bay of Juan Ponce, as this river is -part of San Mateo, which we captured from the enemy. Eighteen leagues -inland from this bay, and from one bay to the other, we can easily trade -with the multitude of Indians that are there and make them soon learn -the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. In this Bay of Juan Ponce is the -Province of Appalache, an indomitable people with whom the Spaniards -have never been able to treat. Thus will all difficulties be overcome so -far as New Galicia which is about three hundred leagues, and so many -more to Vera Cruz, and the same distance to Yucatan. From there this -town will be provided with corn, as there is much of it. As we found the -place and build a good City, there will be no need of founding others -in Florida. We will then proceed to the New Land, easily work the many -mines of silver which are found there, and are the mines of the -Zacatecas. In a few years the silver worked from them will support this -country and be a treasure to your Majesty and a suburb of Spain which -can be reached in forty days from these Kingdoms. With the scarcity of -supplies in the Forts we are suffering much hunger as the grain was -burned and so, unless we receive aid soon, we shall suffer terribly. I -trust your Majesty is satisfied that we serve you faithfully and with -love and in all truth. Without extending myself further, but promising -to keep you advised of all that may happen, may God protect your -Majesty, increasing your royal Catholic personage with greater kingdoms -and possessions as Christianity has need of and your servants desire it -should be. - -From these Provinces of Florida from the banks of San Pelayo and Fort of -St. Augustine, October 15th, 1565. - -PEDRO MENENDEZ DE AVILES. - - - - -CHAPTER III. - -A. D. 1583-1596-1598. - - _Report of Fernando Miranda, agent to the King--Complains of - Governor--Espionage over vessels--Gives account of the work of the - negroes--Haste makes it necessary to employ soldiers in repairing - the Fort for which they were paid--Partial failure of crops - increases the cost of living--Report of Bartolome De Arguellas - giving account of rebellious Indians--Some of those captured were - sent to Havana to be executed, others to be imprisoned--Casiques - render obedience to the Governor who assures them of his good - intentions--Report of Pedro Pertrene to the King--Is newly called - to take charge of a company of Infantry in the Garrison of - Florida--Salary not sufficient to meet expenses of living, recalls - his long service to the King, and asks for increase of pay--Letter - from Dona Maria Menendez, Casique, to the King--Asks for assistance - in meeting the necessary expenses for instruction of the Indians in - Christianity and good government._ - - -A. D. 1583. - - _Fernando Miranda and Rodrego Junco, assistant Agent, who was of - these Kingdoms, to His Majesty_: - -After the Governor had given a decree of the same suspension, we asked -him that until your Majesty should otherwise provide, we be allowed to -continue in office and watch over your Majesty’s interest. Another thing -which occurs to us to inform your Majesty: Yesterday there sailed from -this Port for Havana a vessel belonging to some one in Havana, and the -Governor made every effort to see if we had sent any papers by her--he -searched the vessel and not wishing to give testimony, we understood he -did not wish any letters sent, and so we dared not write more. We felt -that this would be sufficient for your Majesty to place the remedy and -investigate the cause, and punish the culprit. - -In the two years that your Majesty’s negroes have been here, they have -made a platform for the artillery of this Fort of an indestructible -wood--as the one they had previous to this rotted away in two years. -They have made a blacksmith shop, and whatever repairs were needed on -the Fort. Ten of the best of them were sent to Santa Elena to saw boards -to cover that Fort which needed it. On beginning the work it was found -that the whole Fort was in such a damaged condition it was necessary to -tear it all down and rebuild as quickly as possible. On account of the -haste required the soldiers were obliged to help for which work they -were paid. It was completed in four months, during which time the -negroes had to be fed on bread, meat and wine. Besides they have helped -to build a church here, sawed lumber for the building of many dwellings, -and have cleared the woods to some extent for planting. The first crop -not being good, caused extra expense of food and ammunition which was -given them--but for the past six months they have been fed on the -harvest made, with no other expense but the oil and salt. They have corn -enough to last until the next harvest, and all the expense incurred to -the end of June of the present year is six thousand five hundred reals, -from the Treasury of your Majesty--because, although there have been -some other expenses, we have availed ourselves of advantages we had -after having had recourse to what has been offered to your Majesty’s -service. About six months ago eleven of these negroes were hired to -soldiers of this Fort, without the knowledge of the Treasurer, rendering -an account of this to the Governor. It is about a year and a half since -we notified the Governor that he should not keep these accounts, but as -provided by your Majesty they should be sent to this Court. He has never -sent them. Your Majesty will act as best suits him in this affair of our -suspension; we again implore your Majesty to give us a hearing, and some -satisfaction, since we are left in this sterile country without the -means of sustenance. May God preserve your Majesty for many years with -great aggrandizement. - -FERNANDO MIRANDA. - -St. Augustine, August 20th. 1583. - - * * * * * - - -_Your Majesty_: - -As the Governor, Don Domingo Martinez Avendano, has been sending your -Majesty an account of the proceedings of our journey, I have not done so -until now, that we have landed in these Provinces of Florida, and seen -the condition of things, the people of the Garrison and the natives. It -was a blessing of God that it was all quiet and peaceful, and the -Governor with much gentleness and discretion entered, and proceeded -well, to support the service of your Majesty. It was a very fortunate -thing, as many of the culprits had made threats, which if carried into -effect, would have resulted disastrously--but they had not the heart to -carry them out, although a number of the worst criminals were out of the -country. Of those who remained, ten were captured, and with their -accusations were sent by Captain Francisco Salazar to Havana, in the -custody of a trusted lieutenant and twelve soldiers, as guards, so that -they may be executed there and accomplish your Majesty’s will. With this -imprisonment and a public reprimand made by the Governor to the other -Indians, all of which remain quiet. Being overcome with fear, I -understand they will return promptly to their employment, and your -Majesty will be well served. The Casiques of this country came to render -obedience to the Governor, who caressed them and instructed them of the -manner and order in which they were to attend to your Majesty’s work--he -told them he wished to visit them in their homes, and the good -intentions and desires he brings of attending to your service and the -proofs he has already given of them. We entertain great hopes that all -will soon be settled. From Havana they dispatched to the Treasurer Juan -Menendez Marquez to be present at the paying off of the employees of -this Garrison. While the Governor intended to have me assume control of -this collection, he seemed to change his mind, and I came here with him, -where I remain attending to the duties under my charge until he thinks -that I may go out and make use of the license your Majesty granted me if -nothing more occurs. May Our Lord guard the person of your Royal -Catholic Majesty, as we have need of you. - -BARTOLOME DE ARGUELLAS. - -St. Augustine, Florida, July 6th, 1596. - -A. D. 1598. - -_Your Majesty_: - -I do not wish to make a long report in this letter, as I understand a -detailed account of all that occurs in these provinces will be made by -your Majesty’s Governor, Gonzalo Menendez Canso, who in every thing -appertaining to your Majesty’s service and welfare is proceeding with -caution--reforming, arranging everything in the most approved manner, -discovering as he goes, all the secrets of the service, and governing -himself in accordance. He has strong and brave resolutions, as I know, -having communicated them to me, and given me an account of his good -intentions. - -Having served your Royal Highness for twenty-six years in this part of -your Royal Fleet, in charge of your Captains-General the Adelantado -Pedro Menendez Aviles, Diego Flores Valdez, Cristobal Eraso, and Alvarez -Flores de Quinones, as Officer in the companies in which I served as -Lieutenant of the Governor of the Castle, under Diego Fernandez de -Quinones, in Havana. Being in that City, retired in my home, I was -called by the above mentioned Governor to give and honor me with one of -your Majesty’s companies of infantry who served in this Garrison of -Florida. In his absence to Guale to the chastising of the Indians, who -so horribly killed six priests of the San Franciscan Order, he left me -in his place. Of the spoils which are usually divided, he has shared -with me moderately, but even with these, and the two hundred ducats I -have as salary, and the advantages given me, I cannot sustain myself, -nor assist at the obligations of such Captains, on account of every -thing in the land being so dear--provisions are the same--and the -servant we had, was taken from us by your Governor. I implore your -Majesty to attend to the above mentioned facts, and as my desire is to -end my life in your Royal Service--and that I may live and keep up my -obligations I may be given some help toward my expenses, and that I may -be allowed a servant, as is customary with all Captains serving in this -Garrison, and trusting that your Majesty will grant me these things as -are granted to all who serve you with good will. God preserve your Royal -Person as I desire and Christianity needs you. - -PEDRO PERTRENE. - -St. Augustine, Florida, February 20th, 1598. - - * * * * * - -_Your Majesty_: - -My poverty and the frequency with which the Indians, both Christians and -infidels, gather at my home to be instructed in matters concerning their -conversion, and other important things concerning the good Government -need with the Governor of these Provinces, places me under the necessity -of asking your Majesty to assist me in the expenses I am obliged to -incur with the Indians, as is certified to by the report accompanying -this letter which implores your Majesty to assist and see to this need, -since from it will result the coming of the Indians with more heartiness -to become Christians and in this way guard the faith. Your Royal -Highness being merciful. That I may do in all the above mentioned what -is just and right, I also implore your Majesty to send me a letter of -friendship that the Indians may see the good feeling which exists -between your Majesty and ourselves. God grant you may have all graces. - -Florida, February 20th, 1598. - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - -A. D. 1598. - - _Extract from an official report made by Gonzalo Menendez Canso, - Governor and Captain General of the Provinces of Florida, - concerning the murder of six priests of the San Franciscan Order by - the Indians--Lieutenant Eciga sent to see if any of the priests are - still living--Ascertains that there is one, but is refused - permission to see him--After much persuasion and many threats Friar - Fray Francisco is delivered--Makes statement as to death of the - others, but is forbidden by the canons of the Church to reveal - all--Juan Ximenes, a Notary Public and secretary, swears to the - investigation of several Indians through an interpreter--Indian - Lucas is found to have been present and participated in the killing - of Fray Blas for which he is condemned to be executed._ - - -DONA MARIA MENENDEZ--CASIQUE. - -This is a good and faithful copy taken from one of the official reports -made by Gonzalo Menendez Canes, Governor and Captain-General of these -Provinces of Florida to His Majesty, concerning the death of the -Religious of the Order of San Francisco, who perished at the hands of -the Indians who revolted. Its tenor is: - -In the city of St. Augustine, Province of Florida, July 1st, 1598, -Gonzalo Menendez Canes, Governor and Captain-General for the King our -Lord, says: That in the month of October past of 1597, he was notified -of an uprising of the Indians of the Peninsula of Guale. They had -refused to obey your Majesty, and killed the Religious of the Order of -San Francisco sent out to convert and teach them, and that he had made -every and the greatest efforts, having gone in person with a number of -infantry, ammunition and water craft to said peninsula, to investigate -and punish the cases, and ascertain the cause the Indians had for -committing such an atrocious crime. Although he made all the ravages he -could, acting upon advices received, he could not punish them more for -the time being, nor could he capture a live Indian, except one, an -interpreter, from whom they could get no information further than that -the Religious had been killed, as will be seen by his declaration. -Seeing the importance of ascertaining the root and cause of the killing -of these Religious, and if any were still living--and why they had lost -obedience to your Majesty, he has made the boldest efforts possible, -going by way of the Luna. Finding the Casiques in conference, we agreed -to send them presents and keepsakes, to induce them to let us know and -understand if any of the Religious or Friars were still living that we -might ransom them, sending to offer them even interest for them, and -also sending a launch with some of the infantry to the Fort Santa Elena, -distant fifty leagues from this Garrison, to enlist the Casique of that -country, on account of the friendship he has shown the Spaniards, and -because he has Indian warriors, and being so near he could do much -damage to the Peninsula of Guale. Lieutenant Exiga, who went in the -launch, found him and treated with him to make war and do all the damage -possible to said peninsula and ascertain if any of them were -living--bestowing upon him many gifts from your Majesty’s treasury that -he might go. It was agreed that Lieutenant Exiga should return to the -Casique in sixty days, and ascertain what military exploits he had had, -and what success. Being a matter of so much importance to your Majesty, -Lieutenant Exiga left this port on the 23rd of May, with two launches, -with infantry and ammunition to accomplish the agreement made with the -Casique. On the 24th, one day after leaving this fort, having gone as -far as the Bar of Asae, twenty leagues from here, he was caught in a -storm and hurricane, forcing him to put into harbor in distress. The -storm did so much damage to the food and ammunition they carried, that -he was obliged to strike with the launch for the shore of San Mateo. -Notwithstanding all the above mentioned, he continued his voyage to the -port Santa Elena, there taking another launch in better condition for -making the journey, leaving his in bad condition grounded on the beach. -Having arrived at Santa Elena and seen and spoken to the Casique who -delivered to him four gentlemen, he said he had taken from four Indians -of the Peninsula of Gaule where he went to make war. That three other -Indians had captured the Casique of Carague, who had accompanied him, -with the intent of making war. In the same way he certifies that they -had alive in the Peninsula of Gaule, near Solofina, one of the six -friars, named Toray Francisco de Avila. Having learned this he came -coasting along the shore and ports of Guale, to see if any Indians -should come out to speak to them. None appeared, until he came to -Tolomato where he saw one, who by much coaxing and presenting of gifts -and reasoning, succeeded in getting him to tell what he knew. Finally -they learned from him that the said Friar was still living. They paid -the Indian to take a letter to him, and they would await the reply--he -did so, and in the meantime they amused themselves coasting along the -shores of Tolomato, until the Indian returned with some of the Casiques, -whom they begged would show them the Friar, that they might certify to -his being alive, and treat with them for his ransom. At first, although -they had heaped the Indians with gifts, they would neither accept of the -gifts nor promise to deliver the Friar, unless in return for certain -boys, sons of some of the Casiques, who had been brought to Governor -Domingo Martinez Avendano, as hostages. As better security Lieutenant -Exiga promised to bring their boys within thirty days as ransom for the -Friar, also a quantity of hatchets and spades they asked for. Lieutenant -Exiga returned to Port Tolomato in fifteen days, and began treaty with -Casiques for the ransom of the Friar, and although he heaped gifts upon -them with a free hand, it made no impression. They are such liars and -traitors, and all their treaties are founded on treachery and cunning. -Seeing that they did not intend to keep their word and deliver the -priest, he found it necessary to change his tactics and show anger, -swearing that unless they did deliver the prisoner they would send for -three hundred soldiers and would run them through with the sword, cut -down all their crops and follow them to Tama. After these threats they -promised to deliver the Priest at once, which they did. After receiving -him, and having him in their power, Lieutenant Exiga made reprisal of -the hostages he carried, and of seven other Indians he had detained on -the launch until he saw what success he was going to have. Four of -these Indians are sons and brothers of Casiques. The Governor holds them -and has brought them to this city where they are at present, and where -he protests he will investigate and take their declarations as to the -manner of death the other friars suffered--where, in what form, and for -what cause? Finding any of them to have taken part in this crime, to -punish them and do justice to the service of your Majesty, and that this -punishment may serve as an example to them, as they have at other times -committed these treacheries, killing captains and officers and other -persons. This I provide and sign from his hand, Gonzalo Menendez Vanso, -by order of His Lordship the Governor and Captain-General. - -JUAN XIMENES. - -Later the said Governor and Captain-General ordered me, the secretary, -that I should go to the Monastery of San Francisco, of this city, and in -his name ask the custodian priest of said house, Fray Francisco Marron, -to give permission to Fray Francisco de Avila, who had been sent to -teach and convert the Indians, that under the oath which is administered -to the Religious of his Order, he declared how his companions were -killed, what he has seen and heard, and the causes that have moved them -to commit such a crime as the killing of the priests. To deny obedience, -and tell only what he knows and understands of the matter. They -continued the examination, so that all the above may be certified as the -truth. This I provide and sign in his name--and from the declaration of -the father custodian might result many worthy considerations in -questioning the Indians. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -Later--The present notary public went to the Monastery of San Francisco, -of this city, read and showed the decree above disposed of by his -Lordship the Governor and Captain-General Gonzalo Menendez Canso, to -Fray Francisco Marron, custodian of the provinces, who said: that -mindful that Fray Francisco de Avila was one of the friars sent out to -teach and convert in the Peninsula of Guale, and as the Lord, Our God, -had seen proper to deliver him from being killed by the Indians, as his -companions had been, and as a person who knew the habits and manners of -the Indians, and knew their language, he deemed it wise to give him -freedom to say and declare all he considered would be to the service of -God of the killing of his companions--except in cases and things -criminal where his rights of priesthood prohibited, such as death by the -cutting of members--and this I say and sign in his name--Fray Francisco -Marron--in my presence. - -St. Augustine, Fla., July 20th, 1598. - -JUAN XIMENES. - -Gonzalo Menendez Canso, Governor and Captain-General for his Majesty in -these Provinces, ordered to be called Fray Francisco de Avila that in -virtue of the permission granted him by the Custodian Fray Francisco -Marron, to say and declare all he knows concerning the killing -of his companions by the Indians, and of his imprisonment and -captivity--whether his person was badly treated, and all that had -occurred worthy of relating--so as to punish such crime as it deserves -to be. - -Fray Francisco de Avila said: Although it was true Fray Marron had -granted him permission to speak, he could not make use of it, in cases -so grave and criminal as the present--it was prohibited him by the -sacred canons of priesthood, to attest in such crimes, because it would -force him to say that which might condemn some, and so, he did not wish -to speak or declare in this case, not to fall into any error. Besides -being mindful that the Governor had brought seven Indians from the -peninsula at the time of his ransom, to this city, he could know and -understand from them all that they might claim. This he said, and I sign -it in his name. - -FRAY FRANCISCO DE AVILA. - -In my presence-- - -JUAN XIMENES, - -Notary Public. - -Later--The Governor and Captain-General Gonzalo Menendez Canso, in order -to investigate, had appeared before him Gaspar de Salas, an interpreter -of the Indians of Guale who, having been sworn in the proper form, gave -promise to tell the truth and nothing but the truth--and that he would -declare all that he was ordered to say to the Indians who claim to give -information; that he will say and declare all that said Indians say in -reply, under the oath that he has taken. - -Later the Governor ordered to appear before him one of the seven Indians -who were brought from the peninsula, to whom the following questions -were put: From where do you come and what is your name? He came from -Tupique and that his name was Lucas. Are you a Christian? Yes. The name -of your parents, are they, or have they been Casiques? His father’s -name was Felipe, and he was Casique of Tupique. Where was he from? He -was a native of the town of Tupique. Had there been any priest there? -There had been one named Fray Blas Rodriguez. Tell and declare what had -become of Fray Bias? That about ten or eleven moons past, eight Casiques -held a conference, they were Asao, Tolafo, Atmehe, Fulo, Tupique and -Alnate. When night came they killed the Priest. A helping hand was given -them by a chief called Pisiache, that he might kill him with a hatchet, -with which he gave him a blow on the head, from which wound he died -almost immediately. Afterward they buried him in the church. Say and -declare what cause they had for killing this priest? That Micas and -Casiques said they killed him because he was artful and took away their -enchantment or witchcraft, and would not allow them to have more than -one wife. - -Did you hear them say anything else? No. Did he know Fray Miguel de -Annon, and Fray Antonio Lego, among the teachers of Guale, and Fray -Pedro de Corpa, among the teachers of Tolomato, and Fray Francisco de -Avila, among the teachers of Ospo? - -I have known them all, and they have been killed. Fray Miguel had his -hands tied behind him, but he did not know if they had killed him--Fray -Antonio was tied, but he does not know how he was killed--he had heard -it said that they killed him with wooden weapons, and that Fray Pedro -Corpa two Casiques had killed in the night while sleeping; that Fray -Francisco de Avila they had not killed, but had him captive near -Tolofino until he should be ransomed by the Governor. - -Was Fray Francisco well or ill-treated in the prison? - -Sometimes they beat him with sticks and abused him. They sometimes fed -him, but not always, and when they did it was on the leaves and tendrils -of vines. - -Had he seen or heard it said why they killed these Priests and -ill-treated Fray Francisco de Avila? - -He knew no more than what he had already stated, that the Micos and -Casiques said they were artful and did not wish them to have more than -one wife, and that they reproved them. - -Do you know where the ornaments belonging to the Church are, such as the -chalices and other things used by the priests? - -They were all divided up in such a way, that nothing is left of them. - -Was he present at the death of Fray Blas and the other priests when they -were killed? - -He arrived in time to see Fray Blas die--the others he had not seen, but -had heard it said that they had been killed as he stated above. - -Had he seen or heard any of his companions who were brought with him, -say they were present at the killing of the priests? - -One from Tolomato, named Francisco, he heard him say he had seen Fray -Pedro Corpa after he was killed--the rest he does not know. - -All this the said Gaspar Salas said and declared as interpreted under -the oath which he has taken. He does not sign because he does not know -how to write. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -In the presence of - -JUAN XIMENES, - -Notary Public. - -For further investigation of the above, the Governor and Captain-General -had appeared before him the other Indian, said to be named Francisco and -native of Tolomato, and by the said interpreter under oath had him -declare the following: - -Are you a Christian, and who are your parents? - -I am a Christian, my name is Francisco, my mother is nearly related to -the Casique and my father is dead. - -What priest was teacher at Tolomato? - -Fray Pedro Corpa, and I knew him there for some time. - -What became of Fray Pedro Corpa? - -He was killed while sleeping, with wooden weapons, and he was killed by -one of the chief Casiques of the Salcachecos. - -Did you see him killed, or were you present at his death? - -I was far away, but I heard it said that this Micos of Tolomato and Don -Juan, his heir, had sent to have him killed. I went there, but he was -already dead. - -Did the little dress which you wear belong to some religious of that -peninsula? - -Yes, but I do not know to which one, I ransomed it from one of the -Casiques. - -What was the cause of the killing of the priests? - -The cause was, that they reproved Don Juan, heir of Tolomato. By his -cunning he had the other Casiques meet with him, and there was an -uprising in the land, and these killings were done. - -Did you know Fray Miguel Annon, and Fray Antonio Lego in the conversion -and teachings of Guale, and Father Berahula, and Fray Francisco de -Avila? - -I knew them all--they had been killed by the Indians, except Fray -Francisco de Avila, who was ransomed by the Governor. - -Tell and declare what manner of death they have given these religious? - -Fray Miguel and Fray Antonio Lego were killed with wooden weapons--he -had so heard it said--the others he did not know. - -While in prison was Fray Francisco de Avila well treated? - -I have heard it said that he was badly treated by the Indians of -Tolofino--they whipped him--the boys teased him. He ate badly, because -the Indians had little food, and some times he was forced to eat vines -and tendrils. - -Do you know where the ornaments of the Church are, and the other -belongings of the priests? - -All the ornaments and clothes of the priests were divided among them -all, and the Indians had carried them to their country inland. - -Do you know if any of the Indians with you here, were present at the -killing of the priests? - -I have heard it said that the Indian Lucas, son of Don Felipe, was -present when they killed Fray Blas--that about the others he does not -know. All of which the said Gaspar Salas Atiqui says and declares -according to his oath given, and because the Indian Francisco said so, -and did not sign because he did not know how. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -In the presence of - -JUAN XIMENES, - -Notary Public. - -Later the Governor had appear before him the Indian Bartolome, of the -Peninsula of Guale, who with other Indians was sent to the peninsula -with a message from him to the Micos and Casiques, to the better -ascertain, if any of the priests were still living. Although he had been -sent, he did not return with the message, until after the treaty for the -ransom of Fray Francisco de Avila. He stated that they would not let him -come--that he wanted to come and stay with the Governor; that he did not -wish to remain among the Indians, and through the interpreter, Atiqui, -he declared the following: - -Where are you from, and what is your name, and are you a Christian? - -My name is Bartolome; I am a Christian and a native of Tolomato. I was -sent about eight months ago, by this Governor, with a message to the -Micos and Casiques of the peninsula; they would not let me come back, -making threats that they would kill me. - -During the time you were in the peninsula tell what you know and heard -said of the killing of the priests; what kind of death they were given? - -I heard that Fray Pedro Corpa was killed at night in his cell, with -wooden weapons, and that Fray Miguel, Fray Antonio and Fray Blas were -also killed with wooden weapons. That Fray Francisco de Avila, who had -just been brought as ransom, was the first one taken prisoner. They -stuck him with their arrows, but God did not let him die of the wounds. -They would have killed him as they did the others but for the -intervention of the Casique of Tulapo, who took him from the Indians, -saying at the time that he was his father, and as such he would protect -him. - -What was the motive and cause of the killing? - -I heard it was because they reproved them; that the priests were crafty, -and did not care for them, and did not wish them to have more than one -wife. - -Where are the ornaments and appurtenances of the Church? - -They were divided among them, those from the interior carrying many, and -many were also broken, and the children tore and destroyed them. - -Did you hear it said whether Lucas, the son of the Casique Don Felipe, -or any of the other Indians brought in with you were present at the -killing of the priests? - -I heard that Lucas was there at the killing. I know nothing more. - -How was Fray Francisco de Avila treated while a prisoner? - -I have heard it said that in Tufina and Chacalaga the boys would chase -him through the streets perfectly naked and whip him with horsewhips, -and that he was starving to death, because the Indians had little to eat -themselves and gave him none. All this Gaspar Salas says and declares to -have been said by the Indian Bartolome under the oath which he has -taken, and it is the truth; he cannot sign, not knowing how to do so. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -In the presence of - -JUAN XIMENES, - -Notary Public. - - * * * * * - -For further investigation of the above, the Governor and Captain-General -had appear before him another of the seven Indians who through the same -interpreter said and declared the following: (This declaration is not -given.) - -In view of said declarations of these proceedings, the crime falls upon -Lucas the Indian, son of the Casique de Tuqui, for having been present -and participated in the killing of Fray Blas, who was sent to convert -the people of Tupiqui. I must condemn him by this my decree, sentenced -according to his declaration, with the penalty of death. The justice -which I order shall be done him is: That when he leaves the jail where -he now is, it shall be with a rope around his neck, his hands tied -behind him, and with a loud voice it must be proclaimed to the public -his crime; that he be taken to the gallows, already prepared for this -purpose, and that there he shall be hung by the neck and strangled until -dead. Because, thus is it well to punish with real justice those who -dare to commit such crimes, and as an example to the other Indian -natives of these provinces that they may not commit similar crimes. So -do I pronounce sentence and command. And if the said Lucas is not -mindful of receiving baptism and should not die repenting, and in the -Catholic faith, I order that he be hung and after his death his body be -burned to powder. - -Regarding the other six Indians detained for this cause, proceedings -will not continue for the present against them--they being boys under -age. We shall so send and notify the Indian Lucas. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - - * * * * * - - Alonzo Diaz de Badajoz, Sergeant-Major of this Fort and Garrison of - St. Augustine: - - -I order you by this sentence, which will be shown you by Juan Ximenes, -Notary Public, against the Indian Lucas, prisoner in this city, that he -shall be executed as is stated in this sentence, because it so pleaseth -his Majesty. This execution is done in justice to his Majesty, and must -be so accomplished. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -St. Augustine, July 29th, 1598. - -Notary Public. - -Before me - -JUAN XIMENES. - - - - - -CHAPTER V. - -A. D. 1600. - - _Letter from Father Francisco Parga to the King, as one of eleven - monks sent out by his Majesty to spread the Gospel--Eighty churches - in different Missions--Complaint of lazy Indians--Avarice of the - Governor causes dissatisfaction and suffering among the garrison - and impedes the work--Unnecessary war with Indians--People desire - the Governors removal--Fray Baltazar Lopez has labored for twelve - years converting many Indians, among them the Casique, Don Juan, - who stands highly among his people and has quelled many - uprisings--Letter from Juan Nunez Rios--Complains of Governor--Who - allows one Juan Garcia to represent him--People forced to buy of - this Garcia who takes all advantages--Begs for an open port that - the people may be allowed to go back and forth and trade--Antonio - Menendez Canso writes to his Majesty complaining of injustice by - the Governor, and asks to be allowed to serve his Majesty - elsewhere--Letter to his Majesty from Fray Blas De Montes imploring - that he may be allowed to come to Spain for retirement--Gives - account of a fire which burned the church among other - houses--Reports slow progress with the Indians and advises that a - Bishop be sent to administer sacrament of confirmation--Report of - Gonzalo Menendez Canso to his Majesty--A shipmaster bearing - dispatches from New Spain shipwrecked in a dreadful storm--He and - his crew escape in a boat--Governor aids them from the Royal - treasury--Arrival of the Auditor for his Majesty--Garrison - abounding in fruits and grain--Death of a Christian Indian, Don - Juan--Fray Lopez returns from New Spain in good health--Money - brought to establish a hospital--More money needed for Garrison - expenses--Report of Francisco Redondo Villegas, Officer of Customs - and Auditor for his Majesty--Complains of not being treated with - the respect due to Royal officers--Finds affairs in a muddled - condition--Soldiers well drilled--Much land under cultivation which - will be needed as wages are small and rations insufficient._ - - -PATRON LETTER FROM FRAY FRANCISCO PARGA, OF THE SAN FRANCISCAN ORDER, TO -THE KING. - -_Your Majesty_: - -This is a duplicate of a letter sent your Majesty by a vessel which left -this port of St. Augustine in the month of February of this year via -Havana. I wrote giving an account as I was one of the eleven monks sent -by your Majesty to spread the Gospel and teach the natives of this -country. When we arrived we were assigned to different places or posts, -each one trying his utmost and best to do what he could for the -redemption of these souls. It being such an arduous and difficult life, -having to traverse on foot, bad roads, with little or nothing to eat at -times, that little fruit has yet been yielded, although the harvest, -which we hope eventually to reap for the Lord, is worth the trials and -sacrifices made, as we know that He suffered death and passion to -redeem the souls and rejoiceth over the salvation of one; how much more -should we be willing to suffer for the conversion of so many souls as -there are in this country and whom we hope to save with the help of God? -And so I say that while your Majesty has control of these lands as the -Religious have charge of this Garrison in time of need, and they also -help to support the Church under their care and the ornaments and other -things necessary for the worship of the Divine Lord, not having for this -purpose any income from your Royal Finance. There are more than eighty -churches which have been built in the different missions and others -under construction. We are moved to do this to encourage the Indians who -are incapable of good conceptions and obedience. They have always had -their ministry so that they listen with little appreciation to what we -preach and teach, in grave detriment to the poor newly converted -Indians, notwithstanding that our teaching and converting accrues to -their own good, as we aid and provide for them in their time of hunger, -and when crops have failed. The Indians are so lazy and improvident that -if we did not take care of the crops after planting they would have -nothing. They do not even save the seed for another planting. Of the -Governor I wish to say as little as possible, but the misery, impediment -and calamities among Indians and Christians is due to his avarice, and -if the poor Spaniards who are in the Garrison of St. Augustine had not -the hope that your Majesty would be informed in some way and send them -relief from the fearful calamity which this Garrison is suffering, the -affliction among the married men as well as the single would become -unendurable. They dare not, under any circumstances, send you -information, as it would cost them their lives, and so they have prayed -and implored me as Chaplain, who live from day to day upon the charity -of your Royal Treasury, and have to render a strict account or others -would slander us, and our account of the war and other matters must be -true. The war with the Indians where many have been killed and many -brought in as prisoners was uncalled for and the Indians at “Cabeza de -Martyres” are much incensed. As it is a place where many vessels are -wrecked, the Spaniards have taken whole crews and kept them until -ransomed. We fear the Indians of that place will do much damage to -vessels passing to and fro. We feel very sorry that the present Governor -has shown so much anger and resentment towards the Indians and has sent -your Majesty such meagre accounts of the true condition of this -Garrison. It is swampy, little inhabited by Indians, and the roads -difficult to traverse. The Bar is a rough one; there are said to be -better ones on this coast towards the north. I have not seen them, but -have heard through Fray Baltazar Lopez, Vicar of that Island, who has -been there for twelve years working in the conversion of souls, with -other Friars who came with him, and who have left for New Spain. He -alone remains at his post, much encouraged, as he has mastered the -Indian language; it is of great help to him in preaching. He has -converted many who frequent the sacraments of confession and communion. -Had it not been for him and through his persuasions, having converted -and taught the Casique Don Juan, there would have been a terrible -uprising among the Indians, and probably not a Spaniard left. Thus, by -the industry and influence of Fray Baltazar over Don Juan, who is highly -in favor of Christianity and all civilized ideas, this trouble was -averted. Don Juan has sent relief to the people of this garrison in -times of famine. I recognize in Fray Baltazar that spiritual zeal for -the service of God and your Majesty that this land may be converted, -increase in civilization and aggrandize your kingdom. As Fray Baltazar’s -experience is of long standing, it has been decided that he write to -your Majesty and give a full account of all the happenings. To this -letter of his, which I shall remit to your Majesty, you can give full -credit, as he speaks scientifically and from long experience. - -_Your Majesty_: - -As a final remedy and forced by necessity and worry which we poor -citizens of this garrison suffer ever since the arrival of Gonzalo -Menendez Canso, we come to implore you, as King and Christian, not to -permit that your subjects and vassals be so ill treated and afflicted by -those who govern here, since your Majesty in your Cedulas always orders -the contrary. There being no corporation as in other cities of like size -to whom we can appeal for protection, I take the liberty of writing -this. We have not done so before, and gone on suffering all that is -possible for us to suffer, because we understood you had been informed -by other parties, and we hoped and waited daily to be delivered by your -sending some one else who would proceed in a different manner, and thus -we poor citizens would receive better treatment at his hands, and -enable us to proceed in better condition to advance your interests which -have been decreasing and losing ever since the said Governor came. Much -of the land that was gained from the Indians, and who themselves had -become quiet and peaceful, has been lost. I came to this country in the -year 1568, twenty years ago, with others from your Kingdom, to aid and -succor, as was commanded by your Majesty in transferring us to these -Provinces, having assisted and served in them on all occasions which -have presented themselves at Port Elena and St. Augustine. I married a -daughter of one of the settlers who was here and had come enthused by -the promises made by the previous Governors, but who spent his life -eking out a meagre existence for his wife and children by taking -advantage of the license which at that time was granted the citizens of -going abroad to seek work which was so much needed. This Governor has -withdrawn this license and forces us to remain in the town proper. The -town is frequently left to the government of his cousin who calls -himself Juan Garcia and whom he brought with him to this Province with a -large stock of merchandise which he sells at exorbitant prices and he, -the Governor, collects all payments. Before this Governor came we were -paid off, but since his assumption of affairs he forces us to buy all we -need of this cousin, and the Governor informs us that if we do not obey -his order in this we must go without. On pay day he keeps all our pay -saying we have already spent it. If one of the soldiers is sick -requiring anything and sends to ask for money to get the needed -medicine the Governor refuses to give it, forcing him to buy it of Juan -Garcia. All law suits or troubles of any kind which arise are brought -before the Governor by this same Juan Garcia, who seems to be supreme. -It is understood that the vast estate is a joint one of Juan Garcia and -Governor Menendez Canso. My house was burned, as can be testified by any -of the inhabitants, fearing to notify Juan Garcia of the fact. I sent to -him and asked him with all due respect to come, accompanied by the -Mayor, who is the only representative of the law, and see the condition -I was in. For this act he has levied upon me for fifty maravedies and -six months’ imprisonment in the Fort. That I must appear before him, and -he has worried me in many other ways. He has taken from us the only -means of making a living for our wives and children and refuses to grant -us any rights whatsoever, except those which in your Cedula are so plain -he is obliged to grant them. And yet he grants all rights to Mexico. It -is a great injustice not to allow us the same privileges. We trust that -being so far from us and it takes so long to inform you, that you will -have mercy upon us and immediately send some one to replace this -Governor. One who will treat us with more kindness and justice. We -implore you to grant the privileges of an open port, that we may be -allowed to go back and forth and trade, so as to enable us to make a -living. Others would write to you imploring the same grace, only all -fear to do so, as we run great risk of having the Governor intercept our -letters. I send this at the risk of my life. There are many more things -upon which I could enlighten you, but fear prevents us from doing so, -and we trust your Majesty will send us relief as speedily as possible. - -God preserve the Royal Person of your Catholic Majesty for many years, -as christianity has need of it. - -JUAN NUNEZ RIOS. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 19th, 1600. - - * * * * * - -_Sire_: - -While serving your Majesty in this Garrison of St. Augustine, Florida, -as Captain of one of the companies with the title given me by General -Menendez Canso, it is the same position my father served previously for -a year and a half before the work and place was turned over to me as -your Majesty’s service required. Later Lieutenant Alvarez Hernando Metas -having arrived with certain dispatches regarding my father, who had -preceded me, the Governor, without giving any reason or consulting me in -any way, has taken the company from me and given it to Lieutenant Metas, -who is at present serving. The Governor has only said to me that he -wished to employ me in other services of your Majesty for which reason I -am detained in this Province on half pay. Although I have asked -permission to serve on the Armada and assist in any way I am ordered, as -is my duty, he will not allow me to do so, but detains me here. I -implore you to send me orders if only to be in the infantry of this -Garrison; anything until I am ordered elsewhere, to serve your Majesty. -This is my profession and I have always followed it, and for which I -shall always hope to receive special encomiums from your Majesty, whom -I pray our Lord will bless and protect and preserve from all harm. - -ANTONIO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -St. Augustine, Fla., 26th ----, 1600. - - * * * * * - -_Sire_: - -In other letters I have written to your Majesty I have given an account -of the fire we had on the 14th of March of last year, 1599, in this -city. Among other houses burned with the church was ours and we came to -the hospital for shelter, where we still are, and I implore your Majesty -to rebuild our house. The seven hundred ducats required to repair and -cover the house which was burned, and which we hope you will send us, -will be placed in deposit with the treasurer of this Province until a -decision has been reached regarding this country. On account of its -ruined and barren condition it is incapable of maintaining so many -natives as there are, and as was demonstrated the other day, many seem -to think they will order this Garrison removed to another part more -advantageous. Should this be the case, your servants will advise you at -once of all that occurs. - -In the report I give you of the Indians I must say, my Lord, that we -make little progress and are but poorly esteemed by them. The fault must -lie in us, as there will no doubt be those who will so report it to your -Majesty. The good esteem which I am ordered to have for the Governor I -shall comply with in every respect except that I shall not lose my -rights; sending out the Friars to convert and teach the doctrine, I -have always observed the order given by your Majesty with the title of -Royal Patron. Since it is a truth perfectly well known that no Friar has -been sent by me or my predecessors to convert and teach without the -permission and sanction of the Governor, and should it become necessary -I will so make him confess this truth, which he well knows, as there are -so few of us he cannot ignore it, as we eat from his hands at all times. -If this country is to be increased and civilized it would be well to -send a Bishop here, as it is quite necessary to administer the sacrament -of confirmation; therefore, for the peace of those who live here, it -would be well for your Majesty to consider and provide as you see fit -and God would wish. There is nothing a man can desire more than the -salvation of his soul, for this it seems to me urgent that I should -retire from this work and take shelter where I can obtain this end, -serving in quietude your Majesty. For this I beg and humbly implore your -Majesty to send me a permit to go to Spain, as I feel assured of the -little success I can obtain by remaining in this country. May our -blessed Lord preserve your Majesty in peace and love, Yours, - -FRAY BLAS DE MONTES. -St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 25th, 1600. - - * * * * * - -_Your Lordship_: - -On the 13th there arrived in this city Diego Ramirez, a citizen of -Triana of Sevilla, a second class shipmaster from New Spain, sent by -your Viceroy and Royal Officers from San Juan de Ullva. On entering the -Bahama channel he was overtaken by a dreadful storm, his vessel sprung a -leak and took in so much water they were forced to make for the nearest -land which was on the coast of this Province about one hundred and -eighty leagues from this city to the north, about thirty-four degrees, -more or less, where, on entering a port, the vessel was completely -wrecked and the Master made his escape in one of the boats with the -papers and dispatches for your Majesty and also some private letters. -Coming along the coast, landing at night until he reached the Province -of Guale, where last year the Indians had killed two Friars. There he -found two vessels in the service of this Garrison which had been sent to -carry three or four Casiques, two of them men of great influence in -their tribes, who had come to implore mercy for themselves and others -for the terrible crime they had committed. I now have them quiet and -pacified. These natives carried the master to the ships of this Garrison -where he and his men were given shelter and brought to this City. - -The natives also gave them what relief they could. On the arrival here -of the Master he told me of the dispatches he brought for your Majesty -and which he understood were of much importance as they had learned in -New Spain that Chinese, English and Flemish were settling there. He -asked me for passage for himself and men, for any dispatches I might -have for your Majesty and any private mail. He also asked for the means -of sustenance from your Royal Treasury, for himself and men, as they had -lost all. Considering the importance of the dispatches and papers, and -that you might receive them with the utmost speed, I granted their -request and also gave them a change of clothes. He did not wish to go to -Havana on account of the variable winds and so, as I had a frigate in -Port just suitable for the purpose, I fitted it out against the wishes -of its owners, to whom I paid the cost of the trip which three pilots -assured me would amount to one thousand ducats, not counting the -maintenance of the Master and his men. I felt it my duty to aid them -from your Royal Treasury, as they were shipwrecked and there was no one -in this country who could raise a subscription to supply their wants, -all being soldiers or men who have no employment. An account of this may -be kept by the judges and officers in Sevilla against this Province. -Pedro Redondo Villegas, Auditor of the Artillery of Havana, whom your -Majesty nominated to come here to straighten the accounts of this -Province, arrived and has commenced his work. He tells me that he is -notifying your Majesty of all and calling your attention to some. He -says that having notified me of the Royal balance made to Juan -Sebadilla, deceased, being as it is, a large sum, it will be well that -you send a bill, stating what must be done about its collection. Captain -Alonzo de las Alas has not yet satisfied his balance because while -investigating his accounts in virtue of the royal decree of appointments -and of which he was in charge, was suspended for four years. In accounts -taken of different royal officers, they have paid up many losses against -your royal estate. I had noticed this and when the accountant Pedro -Redondo arrived I suspended these payments until he could look into them -and I shall point out to him the result of what I found in them. - -On the eighth of February of this year I rendered your Majesty an -account of how I sent the collections to your Treasurer, Juan Menendez -Marquez. This time the causes made known in the letter which arrived at -this Port on the 21st of this month with four vessels and their cargo of -provisions, ammunition and money collected from the allowance was too -late, so that hereafter your Royal order set forth in Cedule will be -obeyed. - -This Garrison and territory is at present abounding in the fruits of the -earth--corn and other vegetables. Having encouraged and aided in -cultivating the land our Lord has seen proper to give us the most -fertile year ever known in these Provinces. On the 16th of this month -Don Juan, Casique of the Province of San Pedro, died--the one your -Majesty was so kind to in sending him two hundred ducats which were -given him. I feel his death very much as he was one of the most faithful -and influential in this Territory; he was sagacious and practical, -having faith, and agreed in all that you ordered. He died as a good -Christian, receiving the sacraments and giving a good example at the -hour of his death to all the Indians and natives. His niece becomes his -heir; according to their custom the nieces and nephews become the heirs -and not the children. - -Fray Baltazar Lopez, of the Franciscan order, has arrived from New -Spain. He was crippled and sick, so I gave him permission to go to New -Spain where he was cured and has regained his health which has been a -great happiness for me as he is greatly needed in the conversion. He has -brought many to a realization of the truth of Christianity, and I trust -in God he - -[Illustration: Land Approach to Fort Marion.] - -may keep well and continue his good work. In this I try to aid him as -much as possible and with some of the officers and soldiers go to visit -the Indians from time to time to assure them of our good will and to -trade with them. They have just brought from New Spain the five hundred -ducats your Majesty gave in charity to the hospital of this City, -established for the benefit of the poor soldiers of this Garrison. They -also brought five hundred more from Mexico for the Franciscan Convent, -and we have also given to said Convent two thousand eight hundred and -forty-two reals which were in this Treasury and which were found on the -beach of San Mateo from some of the vessels wrecked on that shore, and -although your Royal Cedula said it should be three thousand and -forty-two reals and a half, the Royal Officers have not been able to -find that much on your books, only the amount stated above which was -delivered to them for the repairs of the convent. If your Majesty wishes -to obtain information regarding Jacon from England you must ask for it -by the name of Virginia which is the name given it by the English; if -you inquire for Jacon you will get no satisfaction. I send with this a -duplicate of the letter written you on February 28th by Pedro Alvarez -Castillon via Havana, on the fleet in command of General Sancho Pardo, -and as the sea is an uncertain thing I send a duplicate. The frigate -which carries this paper and those of the Auditor, Pedro Redondo, -belongs to Pedro Gonzales, of Havana, who also goes on her. Should you -wish to send dispatches for this Province, Havana or New Spain, this -vessel is very appropriate; it is good, small, and sails fast, being of -only fifteen tons, and Pedro Gonzales is perfectly familiar with all -this coast and is a practical and experienced sailor and can be trusted -with anything you wish to send by him. I cannot fail to remind you to -grant me a reasonable sum for expenditures of this Garrison, as the -expenses are so heavy I am obliged to implore this grace of your -Majesty. - -May God preserve you in health for the good of Christianity. - -GONZALO MENENDEZ CANSO. - -St. Augustine, Fla., June 28th, 1600. - - * * * * * - -I wrote your Majesty by General Sancho Pardo, giving full and detailed -account of how I had arranged matters and placed in office as Auditor of -the Custom House, of this City, Pedro Redondo, my son, a person -perfectly trustworthy, competent and reliable. I have done everything -according to your Majesty’s orders. I came to the Province of Florida on -the fleet, as you graciously ordered me to investigate the accounts of -your Royal Officers and other employees. I arrived in Florida on the -29th of March, presented my commissions, which were accepted by the -Governor, Gonzalo Menendez. On the 14th of April, after making all -inquiries necessary regarding the accounts, I commenced to investigate, -not meeting from the Officers that respect which is shown by the army -and navy to your Royal employees. Their books being in such a disordered -condition, it will take more time than I calculated to finish these -investigations, but I will accomplish them with all possible speed. As I -have informed your Majesty through others who the persons are, having to -give account and the many and arduous difficulties encountered, there -being among auditors, agents and shipmasters, about twenty persons--it -will take a longer time to accomplish, although I came quite encouraged -and desirous of finishing speedily so as to return to Havana to attend -the grand artillery review and take my command. I left town for the term -of one year, but find I shall be unable to complete these investigations -in that time, as it is impossible to leave them in the muddled condition -they are at present. Doctor Juan Gonzales, of the Royal Court of the -Indias, has told me he could obtain with the consent of the Governor, a -prerogative. I implore your Majesty will send this prerogative and see -and notify me as to what I am to do. As I have been here so short a time -I cannot inform you of all that you ordered me to investigate. All I can -say at present is that there are about two hundred and fifty soldiers in -this Garrison; they are good and well drilled and disciplined; that the -Governor has planted and under cultivation many acres of land, which -will be a great help in the sustenance of these people, who are mostly -married, and whose small wages and rations given them does not suffice -for their support. They certainly need this grain. Besides others, -seeing the good results and what good land it is, are following the -example and are clearing and planting fields. With the cutting down of -the timber it has done away with the vast quantities of mosquitoes and -has helped to improve the City, as one sees on all sides houses in -course of construction. The greatest difficulty I find is the difference -existing between the Officers of the Royal command and the people. As -you have ordered that all should obey them, they are overbearing, as -occurs in many other places. If you could devise some remedy for this, -all would go well. I shall continue to keep you advised of all that -occurs, especially on the matter of investigations and as to who the -guilty parties may be. May God grant you a long life of prosperity. - -FRANCISCO REDONDO VILLEGAS. - -St. Augustine, Florida, April 18th, 1600. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. - -A. D. 1605-1608. - - _Minutes of a Bull to be presented to the Holy See, asking - concession of graces and powers for Catholic residents in - Florida--Minorcan families brought a Priest and Monk with them, and - wish privileges and new license granted--Instructions as to duties - on wine--Priests and Monks of Tasco use municipal monies for their - own interests--Advises change in office of Treasurer of the Royal - chest--Loss of vessels carrying papers for his Majesty--People of - the Kingdom gratified at favor shown by his Majesty to Don - Francisco--Letter from Pedro Ibarra to his Majesty--Insufficient - support for the Garrison--A widow, who was the wife of two Army - Captains, in need--Two poor soldiers find amber in a fish for which - Menendez exacted a duty--Anxiety on account of French and English - pirates--Some taken prisoners and ten hanged--Several Casiques and - chiefs visit Augustine--Are impressed with religious services and - procession--Ask for Friars to return to their country with them to - instruct their people--Asks for men to assist in building a fort at - the mouth of Miguel Moro--Has made inquiry as to origin and source - of River San Mateo and Lake Miami--A Garrison of warlike - people--Proposition to establish a Manager of the Inquisition to - control them--Does not wish to let go certain Priest and - Captain--Report of Juan Menendez Marquez to the King--Deplores the - decision to reduce the Garrison--Advises return to the policy of - Pedro Menendez, his cousin--Desires permission to go to Spain to - more fully lay the matter before his Majesty._ - -A. D. 1605. - - - - -Minutes of the Bull or Supplication which the Minister of this Court in -Rome should present to the Holy See, asking for the concession of new -graces and powers in favor of the Catholic residents in Florida, which -precepts have been formulated by the Judge complying with the Royal -Decree of your Majesty in consultation with the Council. - -As formal instructions they should state that these Minorcan families -transmigrated to Florida under the English dominion, but with the free -use and privilege of their Catholic Religion. They carried with them as -spiritual directors Don Pedro Campos, secular Priest, and Padre -Bartolome Casanovas, a Monk, that these, for the legitimate discharge of -their Ministerial duties, repair to the Holy See, begging they be -constituted Pastor of that flock, dispensing them all the powers -necessary, that your Holiness benignantly accede to their urgent -petition, to grant them different privileges and powers, among others -the administering to that Catholic people all the sacraments, even those -not Parochial, except confirmation and Orders, extending this privilege -for a term of three years when they shall obtain a new license from the -superior Prelates or Bishop nearest to Florida. That is what has been -done, because I have received a new Cedula from your Majesty ordering -that the proceeds of the duties on wine should not be spent on anything -but the bringing of water. I cease, satisfied, that before suspending -the execution of this Cedula. I shall take time to inform your Majesty -that it was necessary for me to avail myself of this money for these -purposes. I do not at present send an account, until I can send it -finished, that it may not be a work which the Viceroy may consider -impossible to accomplish at so small a cost. I beg of your Majesty to -consider it. Otherwise I shall obey to the letter this Cedula and I -await your reply. Not receiving a reply, I shall take for granted that -your Majesty is satisfied. Being so general and important in this -Kingdom the practise of other business, and there being a possibility of -misunderstanding in this matter, I resolved to visit some of the -vineyards of this kingdom, and so I went to Tasco, some twenty-eight -leagues from this city, taking advantage of the Christmas holidays, not -to lose any time from my ordinary business, it has been of great -advantage as I can state just how these things are conducted. I have -stated to your Majesty in other letters, the municipality of this City -is not governed as it should be, because the Priests or Monks think more -of their own interests, reducing all to their own profit. As this takes -place the Royal Officers cannot ordinarily attend the meetings, it would -be well that the Viceroy should elect four persons of the best standing -and principles upon whom your Majesty should bestow Government offices -and that the Viceroy should oblige them to accept, for at least four -months in the year, giving them precedence after the Royal Officers, and -thus assure their attention to matters which are looked upon -indifferently in one of the best Cities you possess, and which is -improving each day. If the Council will consider this proposition and -your Majesty pleases to execute it. - -The Decree sent by me and the Official documents for the high notaries -of Government and legislative bodies of this Audience and particularly -for the notaries of the Treasury, that they might transact some -important business which was taken from the books and have been badly -attended to because there is no one to be solicitous about this matter, -and it not belonging to the duties of the Judge, it is neglected as are -other affairs. It becomes obligatory to find some faithful and -trustworthy person of influence to take charge of this Office and assign -them a salary of $800.00 a year. Show and make them understand the -anxiety which I feel concerning it and how it retards other business. -Being new in my Office I have not cared to assign any one until I had a -license from your Majesty for doing so. I shall await your decision. It -seems to me the salary could be assigned through the Legislature, and if -they neglect their duties discharge them. - -In New Vera Cruz, Pedro Casco Calderon has been serving as Treasurer of -the Royal Chest by nomination of your Majesty, he also occupied other -Offices in Spain. He is old, the many years of service at that Post and -the conduct of his wife, have disturbed his mind; he is also running a -butcher shop and other enterprises not in accordance with the Royal -Office. The situation is such that nothing should be concealed from you. -In being served you might give him some small Office at home, and I -should remove him to some other place, if I did not understand the -necessity of his attending to his estate, which is in that -neighborhood, and all his other profitable enterprises. - -The first registered vessel was lost on the coast of Campeachy, and -although the Papers for your Majesty were taken out, they had been under -water so long that they were useless, scarcely legible. The second -vessel of advice was taken by the French on its return from Saona, and -they stripped it of everything, leaving vessel and crew in such a ruined -condition they could proceed no further than Santo Domingo. Seeing that -they were lost they threw the papers for your Majesty overboard. Thus it -becomes necessary that one and the other be duplicated. Your Majesty -will please see that the person in Sevilla who has charge of these -vessels be careful of the person to whom he entrusts these Documents as -so far the person in charge does not seem to understand their -importance, and so, it is only miraculous that we get them at all. It -has been very gratifying to all in this Kingdom the favor shown by your -Majesty to Don Francisco. I trust he will serve you well and faithfully. -It is prohibited that an Alderman should serve a private individual -under penalty of losing his Office. In this city Don Luis Maldona, son -of Maldona who was Judge of this Supreme Court, has a regiment. On -account of his talent and the good services he can render I have him -occupied in my service, and that he may not fall under the penalty of -the law I implore your Majesty to send him a permit that he may attend -to both, or a license that he may resign his place in the regiment and -serve your Majesty otherwise, on a salary that you shall name. I -consider the first plan best. Don Luis Valasco has arrived and I -thought best to introduce him and have some attention bestowed upon him, -on account of his position. I shall show him all respect and visit him, -feeling sure you will thus be well served. The case is free of -consequences. Having sent you a letter of dispatch through the Supreme -Court of Castile stating that Dr. Lievana will go over to that Kingdom -and render an account of the expenses of the residence and trip of the -first Lieutenant of Assistencia of Sevilla. Dr. Lievana acted as Mayor -in the interim between the death of Señor Trufillo and your appointing -Don Francisco de Onate. He is a person who will render you good service, -he can be relied on, is among the noblest here, and could fill any -office. I have detained this vessel that I might inform you of the -departure of the vessel for the Philippines. - -May God preserve you for many years. - -THE MARQUEZ OF MONTES CLARAS. - -Mexico, March 31st, 1605. - -(There is a Rubrica.) - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1605. - -_Sire:_ - -I sent your Majesty one of your royal Cedulas dated in Valladolid, April -3rd, in which I laid before your Majesty the necessity and want these -poor married men are in. It is impossible for them to support -themselves; there are seven and eight in a family to be fed on the -father’s rations. As I have before stated to you, it would be a great -charity as well as a service to God to help them that they may not -perish. This may be remedied when the other people arrive. I can then -give permission to the valetudinarians and sick to return home, your -Majesty having sent as a reward for so many years of service the means -to defray the cost of the voyage. I can give according to the condition -of each one and to the married men who remain here in service please -order an extra half ration for each child with some other slight -assistance while they serve as soldiers and their daughters are too -young to marry. I assure you that aside from being a great charity it -will be no more than justice, as they are among the best soldiers I have -ever seen on land or sea. Among the necessities your Majesty may see -proper to relieve is the suffering of a lady of standing, widow of two -captains who served many years in this Province and who had charge of it -in the absence of the Governors. Aid given here will be one of the -greatest of charities, as before stated. The negroes who were here for -over forty years, working in the Havana forces, have died, and it will -be well to send about a dozen more and three or four negro women. - -Your order that I should not collect from the New Spain more than was -necessary I have carried out so far, and I wish to remind you to send a -trustworthy accountant as the one at present occupying that office is -not fitted for it. During the residence of Gonzalo Menendez Canso, the -Treasurer, Juan Menendez, asked and exacted that duty should be paid -your Majesty on some amber which Bartolaine Perez and Gaspar Martin, -soldiers, had found in a fish’s craw, and with promises which Gonzalo -Menendez made the soldiers, he palliated them and said the duty must be -paid according to one of the chapters of royal instruction. At that time -we could not ascertain if it were true. The said soldiers had already -put in a plea to the said Gonzalo Menendez and as interested parties -could not be witnesses in these investigations. The other person through -whose hands it must pass was Lieutenant Fabeicio Lopez, and he was not -here. He has returned now and makes the accompanying declaration, which -you can place with the declaration of the soldiers, and you can have -your duties and give the soldiers what was taken from them, not allowing -them to make a manifestation. The Treasurer has asked me to let him use -a permit he has to go to that kingdom on business and solicitations. I -have not allowed him to use it, because we are so much in need of men -and there are so few I can put my hand on in case of need. God protect -your Majesty. - -PEDRO IBARRA. - -Dec. 26th, 1605, St. Augustine, Florida. - - * * * * * - - -A. D. 1607. - -_Sire_: - -In a letter of the 22nd of January of the present year, which was sent -from Havana with a notice of the death of Governor Don Pedro Acuna I -have forwarded you, I have also notified you of what I thought of doing -with the French and English pirates I held as prisoners. One day after -the departure of the boat I sent to have them hanged, using with them -such religious treatment as is customary. Ten of them were baptized, the -others stated they had already been baptized. It seems that all died as -Christians, so that this whole City with their fraternities turned out -to lay them out and bury them. I only wish that with these pirates we -might put an end to them all on these coasts. There are so many they -keep me in great anxiety and I implore you to send me people to destroy -them. I have every one on this coast enlisted to aid in their -destruction. But my experience is that many have not only sheltered -them, saved their lives and estates, but continue to serve them and -allow them to come and go at will. They come from a distance of a -hundred leagues with all confidence and safety. This week, which is Holy -week, I have had here several Casiques and Chiefs who are the lords of -the mouth of Miguel Mora, where, I have before told you, we should erect -a fort and from there capture the fleet of Charles. I shall tell you the -names of these Casiques that you may know who they are and the great -achievement I have made in gaining their services. They have returned to -their country dressed and very happy and edified with the religious -services and processions they have witnessed during this Holy season. -They ask for Friars to instruct them. I told them I would come there to -visit them. I notify you that this is the time that with more security -and less cost a fort could be built there; they themselves would act as -peons, and if possible to do so I would myself ask that from Havana they -would send me an engineer and eighty men with two launches. Look into -this, as I am quite sure they would all lend themselves to serve in the -building, as they would feel safe all along that coast from the -invasions of the enemy. The other Provinces are very peaceful. With the -warriors, silver miners and woodmen I have so long asked your Majesty to -send me. I trust in God that we can touch with our hands the great -wealth we surely have in the interior of this land. All this I ask of -you I am moved to do by the zeal to serve you and enlarge your estate -and not for rest or gain. From all these parts I have had here this week -over five hundred Indians, and, God knows, to make them understand it, -will require more men than I have in our Order to guide them. - -In a letter of September 23rd your Majesty commands me to make every -possible inquiry to know the origin and source of the River San Mateo -and Lake Miami. As I have always tried to make inquiries, about six -months ago I discovered on the southern coast a river which I have had -examined by three different pilots, and find that it has nine fathoms of -water at the entrance of a much wider river. I notified your Majesty of -this new river. This garrison is composed of a warlike people and the -Friars of San Francisco are thinking of establishing a Manager of the -Inquisition to subject them and control their passions. When I came here -these warriors were in great want and I have come to an agreement -together with the Royal Officers, that we should have Juan Nunez go to -Castilla and try to make terms with some merchant to remedy these -occurrences. To Fray Pedro Ruiz they have brought an Order from your -Majesty in which you command me to let him go to Castilla on account of -his age and failing health; that he is of no further use. It seems to me -this Friar has not been here so many years and he is perfectly sound and -fresh and robust, never having had so much as a headache. - -Captain Alonzo de las Alas has presented me a Cedula from your Majesty -which gives him permission to go to Castilla for a term of two years -and that during that time he is to receive no salary. He claims that it -is an oversight in not appointing some one in his place and allowing him -to draw his salary as heretofore and which is just, because whoever -takes his place is entitled to half of his pay, and for this it will be -necessary that your Majesty order Bartolome Arruchas to return to his -Post as the permit granted him by your Majesty has expired. - -God protect your Majesty. - -PEDRO IBARRA. - -May 16th, 1607, St. Augustine, Fla. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1608. - -_Your Lordship:_ - -Through a letter of September 20th of last year, 1602, and an account -rendered the Bishop of Cuba (the past year of 1606) who came to confirm -the Spanish Christians not yet confirmed and the native Indians of these -Provinces, I told him all that I thought would be most convenient to the -service of God our Lord and your Majesty regarding the conversion of -this Garrison to which I again refer, it having come to my knowledge -that your Royal Council did not repeat it to you, fearing to tire or -annoy you. Now, on learning the resolution you have taken of reforming -this Garrison and reducing it to one hundred and fifty infantry, I am -sure you have listened to the advice of persons who have never seen this -coast, nor do they know anything about the interior of the country, nor -the great benefits which have been accomplished in the conversion of the -natives who are idolaters and savages, hesitating at no crime however -horrible. - -If Gonzalo Menendez Canso were moved with the true zeal of God and a -proper desire to serve your Majesty it would have been no more than just -that when he first assumed control of this Government he should have -given you a full and detailed account of the existing state of affairs -and sought your advice and not waited until he was quite sure that his -Office was to be filled by some one else. - -Again, I decided to write this to implore you to consider and look -closely into the matters upon which I have advised you and which I have -done in all truth and fidelity as I am obliged to for my King. Knowing -also that the King of glorious memory, your father, had more trouble and -combats than at present on account of economy and the abandoning of this -Garrison, he never listened to such things; on the contrary, in the time -of Governor General Pedro Menendez Marquez, my first cousin, he -increased the force to one hundred and fifty soldiers of Infantry and by -thus assigning them to this Post their aid and succor succeeded in -subjugating the Indians and in bringing and attracting them to hear the -Holy Gospel, and listen to the words of the Friars who preached. This is -a public truth. And since that time no Governor has made any conquests -or discoveries, nor gone in person to treat with the Indians nor draw -them towards civilization by gifts or other means. And if you would at -least grant us a Garrison of defense of three hundred Infantry and -thirty marines besides the Friars, Governor and Royal officials, with -orders that they proceed to ferret out the secrets of the interior of -the country, where Lieutenant Mocana entered, and in which latitude -there can no doubt be found an excellent port, particularly at Cayagua, -where any Armada could with safety enter in an altitude of thirty-three -and one-fourth degrees, and where I have myself been in the past year of -1588. Should it prove advantageous and convenient in the Bay of the -Mother of God, of Macan, at a height of thirty-seven degrees at its -mouth, and which terminates at the foot of the mountain range where I -was also, in the same year, in search of the English settlement. It is a -more sheltered harbor than this one and nearer for obtaining aid, and an -entrance could be made through the Province of Guale in the land of -Tulufino, which corresponds with that called Tama, on the skirts of the -mountain range. It might be a very advantageous move which would result -in the glory of God and your Majesty’s interest; for if we could bring -these people to honor the Governor of the garrison and when they found -that he was working for their good and not the contrary, there would -naturally result a reform among the enemies and we might aspire to carry -out your designs in a satisfactory manner. Under existing circumstances -it is impossible for this Garrison, composed of so few men, to march out -or in any way try to defend themselves against the enemy, and nothing -remains but to die bravely defending the Garrison as best they can, and -when there remains no one else to defend it, it leaves the Friars and -converted Indians to the mercy of God, for it is the only help they can -look to, the Forts and Castles of Flanders being so far away they would -be slow to respond. If there is to be no more infantry sent I think it -would be well to agree upon making this Fort a ravelin and build a good -trench of defense along the coast to prevent the enemy from jumping -over and in every possible way attend to the preservation of all the -above mentioned regarding the Friars and converted natives. Put a stop -to all these ambushes and skirmishes and other nuisances which oblige -them (the natives) to leave their settlements and fortify themselves -upon your domains and do great damage to vessels coming in and going out -at the mouth of the Bahama channel, making it unsafe all along the coast -of this part of the Indies, possessed by your Majesty and which you will -possess for many years for the glory of God and the welfare of the souls -of these poor natives, and may His Divine Majesty not permit these -arbitrations and troubles caused by a few men who are incited by their -passions and own selfish interests and with the pretext of saving you -some twenty or thirty thousand dollars cause such great trouble that -your expenses will be more than doubled in repairing the damage. You -support and maintain the Garrisons of Havana and Porto Rico from rents -and taxes of New Spain and it is not just nor proper to put difficulties -in your way to prevent you from preserving and sustaining in the same -way this one which should be well defended as it is a Port from whence -you can pass through those same inland regions to Mexico, and, in my -opinion, it is very important to preserve it for this purpose. Havana is -of importance, being the key to the Indias and a place where the Armadas -and fleets can replenish and repair to continue their voyages through -these Kingdoms. With all humility I beg you receive my zeal and good -wishes which is to always serve you with fidelity and truth as has been -done by my parents, and if on this occasion I did not call your -attention to these matters, which are of vast import, I should be -committing a crime, and in all this I subject myself to better judgment -and implore your Majesty with all humility that as I can be of no other -use in this Post, but to serve as Treasurer of these Provinces, which I -am at present doing, you will consider my application and give me -permission to go to Spain and render an account of the Royal finances -intrusted to my care since June of the past year of 1602, hereafter and -for this purpose that I be given receipts of my charge, and that during -my absence from this Port the employment be at the risk and account of -the person left in my place, and who must give bond as is customary in -vacations of similar Posts and offices and at the same time that the -Governor provide that he be given one half of the salary and that I -receive the other half as a means of helping me to defray my expenses, -and if my mind does not deceive me my services are deserving of it for -the care and anxiety I have suffered in this Garrison by wishing to -defend the cause of the profit of the Royal finance of your Majesty and -the desire that I have of settling my accounts, not only those I have of -my own, but also those of Pedro Redondo which will seem to have been -given with pay, which will be the case with those I render if God will -give me life for it to employ in your Royal Service. May God grant you -many and happy years for the mercy and defense of the faith, the -preservation of peace and tranquility of many more kingdoms, and the -conversion of as many idolaters as are in these parts. - -JUAN MENENDEZ MARQUEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., January 5th, 1608. - - - - -CHAPTER VII. - -A. D. 1622-1640. - - _Report of Antonio Benavides to his Majesty--Endeavored to execute - order of the King to establish friendly relations with the English - of the Carolinas--Sent Don Francisco Menendez together with other - Officers--The Mission a failure owing to the English not having - instruction from London--Find that the English have built fort on - Spanish territory--Requested its removal in order to avoid trouble - between the two nations--The English Governor refused--Matter fully - laid before his Majesty--Report of Luis De Rojas--Frigate sent from - Augustine to Havana to help fleet from New Spain bring over - supplies for Garrison--They discover thirteen vessels, which proves - to be an enemy who give chase to the Frigate--The pilot and - soldiers landed, followed by the enemy, until a forest is reached, - where the enemy leaves them--Returning to their launches the enemy - strip the Frigate and burn the hull--The enemy coast along shore - frightening the Indians, lodging in their huts--A large force of - Indians were gathered together with one hundred and fifty soldiers - to pursue the enemy at which they reembark and sail away--A Spanish - Frigate arrives bearing forty-seven persons, all that was left of - three vessels which had been captured by the enemy who proved to be - bearing provisions to a Dutch Fleet in Havana--Recommends his - Majesty to build a fort at the Bar at the place called Jega--Report - of Luis Ussitinez to his Majesty--The Mandate of the King has been - carried out in regard to prayer to God for the success of the - King’s arms taken up against France--1636--An account of a meeting - of the Board of the City Council of Havana at which a clergyman of - the Holy Office of the Inquisition appears with an Auto from the - Senior Commissionado, Don Francisco de las Casas, of the Holy - Office of this city, containing instructions as to certain - ceremonies in connection with the Inquisition._ - -_Your Lordship:_ - -By your Royal dispatch of last year you ordered me to immediately -establish friendly relations with the English of the Carolinas, and that -your Majesty had asked that the Court of London should pass efficacious -measures to have the order repeated, which was given in virtue of the -suspension of arms between your Majesty’s crown and that of England, to -the end that these vessels be not disturbed by the English of the -Carolinas, nor the Indians of their Province, so that they may derive -the benefits of the land and live in tranquility and love as your -Majesty desires. That for this purpose I should in my ministerial -capacity go to the Governor of Carolina instigating him to make them -observe punctually the treaty of suspension of arms. I executed this -order immediately and sent the Auditor Don Francisco Menendez -accompanied by other Officers of the Garrison of this Post, with orders -to adjust a firm agreement with the Governor that on the part of the -English they should cease to incite the Indians, and thus they and the -laborers might live without injury one from the other; that this -agreement was equally important for both Nations. To this proposition, -and others certified, in the testimony of the letter which the referred -to Don Francisco Menendez carried and on this occasion I remit to you. -The Governor and parliament of the Carolina replied that they had -received no orders from the King of Great Britain, but that -notwithstanding they would try to maintain friendly relations with this -Government during the suspension of arms. Immediately upon the arrival -of Auditor Don Francisco Menendez in Carolina, he was informed that the -English had built a wooden fort at the mouth of Talaje, one of your -Provinces, where for many years were settled the Indians, and on account -of the blockade we put upon it, they retired. Don Francisco immediately -demanded of the Governor and Parliament the reason for building there; -that it was your Majesty’s Territory, etc., and stating that it might -cause trouble between the two Nations and once that war was started it -would be difficult to stop on account of the Indians. His reply was -simply that to secure his dominions from invasion and harm, the King of -Great Britain had ordered it built, and that they should found Towns in -the best and most approved manner. The Auditor requested its removal -from your Territory, but they refused to do so, stating that his orders -were not sufficient, and expressed nothing whatever in regard to this -Fort. I infer that with the incoming of this new Governor in the -Carolinas, not only will the Fort be completed, but they will settle all -the Islands belonging to your jurisdiction, and thus make the Carolinas -impregnable and reduce this Garrison to a more lamentable condition -than it is, and the Indians watching their opportunities will come upon -us and also takes sides with the English, who will supply them with arms -and ammunition, a thing they most ardently desire. The Auditor was also -informed that in the Carolinas they were waiting the arrival of large -quantities of arms and ammunition from England. They can in time of war -easily invade this Castle, the only desire and aim they have, on account -of the great importance it would be to the preservation of their -colonies in this New England and the facility it would give them for -capturing vessels coming and going through the Bahama Channel, the -nearness of this Castle being just what they most desire. In giving you -this information I not only appease my conscience but fulfilled my -obligations to you by showing you the great danger which threatens you -and the terrible results it might cause, and I leave it to the -intelligence of your Royal Highness to act in this matter as best -pleases you. - -May God save you. - -ANTONIO BENAVIDES. - -St. Augustine, Fla., April 21st, 1622. - - * * * * * - - -1627 - - -_Sire_: - -After having written your Majesty giving an account of having faithfully -fulfilled all the instructions of your different Royal Cedula, I will, -in this, give a detailed account of what occurred on August 25th of this -year. I ordered Captain Diego del Pozo to embark in one of the frigates -of your Majesty’s Service in this Garrison, and proceed to Havana, to -help bring over the supply for this Garrison, which was to come on the -fleet from New Spain. Following his journey and coasting along these -Provinces, near the Cape of Canaveral, on Sunday, the 13th of September, -in the morning, he discovered thirteen vessels, ten large ones and three -smaller ones. Believing it to be the Fleet, he made signals and hoisted -the flag, but as no answer was returned he saw clearly that it was the -enemy. At the same time one of their three smaller vessels came forward -and gave him chase. The Frigate being small went so near in shore that -the vessel could not reach it, seeing which they lowered two rowboats to -chase and attack the Frigate, each boat carrying twelve soldiers and ten -mariners. The Frigate resisted the attack with arquebuses. The enemy not -making any headway, called for more aid, which was sent them by two more -larger launches with a hundred men. Captain Diego del Pozo finding -himself in such a tight place, and the pilot and soldiers thinking they -would stand a better chance on land, he decided to land. The enemy -followed close, he fought them step by step until they came to a thick -forest, when the enemy decided to leave them. The skirmish lasted about -two hours. On returning to their launches the enemy first stripped the -Frigate of all they wanted and burned the hull. When Captain Pozo saw -that he would have to abandon the ship, he threw the two pieces of -artillery he carried overboard. All this occurred about forty leagues -from this Garrison. In a few days I was notified of this misfortune and -I sent a launch with infantry to get the men from the Frigate. All -arrived safely without the loss of a single man. I had the testimony -taken and ascertained the truth and found that the Captain and his men -were here and did their duty faithfully. Further proof and truth was -ascertained a few days later from the soldiers I sent by land to -reconnoitre the coast where the Frigate was lost--they brought word that -the thirteen vessels which had been sent to chase the Frigate were -coasting along slowly taking on water and wood. They had disembarked and -taken up lodging in the Indian huts, the Indians fleeing with fear. -Some, by gifts, had been induced to return, others came to me for -protection. Following this, I received further news that three of the -thirteen vessels were lost and the crew on land. This proved not to be -true--in going over the Bar three launches were lost and a few of the -men drowned. Feeling it was not right to have the enemy land on your -Majesty’s domain, where we are at present safe and on friendly relations -with the Indians, I immediately gave orders and gathered a large force -of Indians and, with a hundred and fifty of our men, I set out -determined to find the enemy and thrust them out. I appointed Captain -Melchar Durante to take command here during my absence, he being an old -man of much experience. I was continuing my pursuit of the enemy when I -received news of their having re-embarked and sailed off, so I returned -sending one of the Sergeants with a squad of twenty men to the Bar, and -that they might recover the three launches if they were worth it. This -they did promptly, returning with two of the launches in fair condition, -the third they left as it was too badly injured to be of use. They -brought the same news of the enemy’s proceedings. On the 20th of said -month a Frigate arrived. On sending out to recognize her, we found it to -be Spanish. It was one of the fleet which was overtaken by the enemy -and brought in forty-seven persons, mariners and passengers, among them -an Augustinian Monk. It was what was left of the three vessels taken by -the enemy of the thirteen vessels. They were captured off Cape San -Antonio. On one of the vessels were the papers and information sent by -the Viceroy to Don Carlos Ybarra, General of the Spanish fleet, which -was coming from Spain. They captured it near Cape Catoche, and the -papers for General Ybarra and your Majesty were thrown overboard to -prevent the enemy from getting them. They were in the enemy’s power for -twelve days, when they put them on this small Frigate with scant -rations, and told them they were free to come to this Garrison, where -they arrived half-starved. I took them in and fed them at your Majesty’s -expense, as part of them had lost their lives in your service and they -were your vassals. They remained here a month, and on the first -opportunity which presented itself, I gave them passage for Havana. -Among the forty-six persons were four pilots and four boatswain who gave -a long account of what they heard while prisoners. They particularly -spoke of the Armada in charge of Tomas Raspuro, which they had been -waiting for, but on seeing so many large vessels of war and knowing they -would be outnumbered, they desisted and retired along the coast--it was -then they captured these three frigates of this Garrison of which I have -given you detailed account. These Pilots informed me that these thirteen -vessels came with supplies and ammunition and provisions for the Dutch -fleet, which was in Havana, but they learned it had departed and they -were too late. Being unable to assault our Fleet as she entered the -mouth of the channel, they decided to take one of the Pilots who was -experienced in the Honduras waters and there await the Admiral and -Captain of our fleet and make them prisoners. They questioned them the -whole time they were prisoners and asked their advice, finally turning -them loose on the small frigate, so that it was a miracle they were -saved. The thirteen vessels were manned by very young men, most of them -boys, and they could not tell the name of the squadron, but the Admiral -was Pedro Yanez, a German, a native of Amsterdam. They got all the -information possible regarding this Garrison, and say that next summer -they will come and ransack and burn the City. At that time there were -only forty men, less than the three hundred you should always maintain -here--so, I selected others, forced them into service and have them -drilled and armed. I have given you a full account of all the happenings -on the coast this summer. I hope I have done so, as a good vassal, and -for this reason I should warn and advise your Majesty to build a Fort at -the Bar at a place they call Jega--it being the place where vessels all -come to cast anchor when they want to take on water, wood, and to await -the merchant ships and others they wish to capture. Many of your ships -and nearly all those bringing supplies to this Garrison are lost in this -way. A Fort at this place would act as a sentinel, and guard against -their landing and helping themselves. It would also be well to have it -in case of vessels being wrecked along this coast, as so many are, to be -able to rescue and save the crews and passengers, who so often perish at -the hands of pirates and cruel Indians. One cannot trust the Indians, -they are children born of traitors. I am sure the Germans would not -approach if they saw the place occupied by Spaniards. For this you would -be obliged to increase a hundred soldiers more than are in this -Garrison. Besides the men would have to be relieved from time to time -from there as the work would be arduous, and no soldier or any one could -withstand the mosquitoes which are so bad they kill the men, and destroy -much of the food. The cost of this Fort you would have to send some one -to estimate. I could not feel that I had properly complied with my duty -until I have notified you of this great and urgent need. Hoping your -Majesty may spend many happy years, as your vassals need you. - -LUIS DE ROJAS. - -St. Augustine, Fla., February 13th, 1627. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1636. - - -_Sire_: - -By a Cedula of your Royal Highness, dated in Madrid, on the 28th of June -of last year, you command me to have a general offering of prayer in all -the churches in the district under my command, imploring God that you -may be successful in the arms you have taken up against France, on -account of her evil designs against you. You also recommend that I -improve the conduct and manners of the people here; that if necessary I -punish them publicly for their offences. I immediately complied with -your order, and had them go out from the high church in procession, -those of the Seraphic Order joining with all the others. They went -through all the streets of the City, then a high mass was sung, and -prayers offered for your success. I also sent a message to all the -other Churches and Convents to have like services celebrated. In regard -to the conduct of the residents of these Province, Spaniards as well as -natives, I have great care in every respect, and from today, complying -with your Mandate, I shall redouble my vigilance. May God spare your -Majesty many years, for the good of Christianity. - -LUIS USSITINEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla. - - * * * * * - -Havana, A. D. 1640. - -In the city of Havana on the 13th day of April, 1678, there was a -meeting of the Board in the Hall of the City Council as is usual and -customary. The Master of the Field, Don Francisco Davila, Governor and -Captain-General of said City, and the Messrs. Nicolas Castellan, -Lieutenant-Major Don Pedro Valdes, Don Pedro Recio de Oquendo, First -Alderman, Captain Don Blas Pedraso. - -In the presence of the Notary, the following was agreed: - -They had begun to discuss some business when there was a rap at the -door, the Governor rang the bell, the porter opened the door and said -that outside was the Lieutenant Don Antonio Grazeano, a noted clergyman -of the Holy Office of the Inquisition, that he brought a message from -the Inquisition for his Lordship of the Board. He sent this youngest -Alderman with the Secretary to receive him, as he came in the name of -the Inquisition. Entering and having been seated in the midst of the -Aldermen, he announced that he brought an Auto from the Señor -Commissionado, Don Francisco de las Casas, of the Holy Office of this -City. He was told to read it, which he did, and delivered it. His -Lordship asked that he give testimony of his authority in order to agree -upon the matter of which it treated, and for the better veneration of -God and of so Holy a Tribunal. Don Antonio Glaziano drew forth from his -pocket a folded paper which he delivered in my, the Notary’s’ presence. -Opening it, it contained a sheet of paper, the first leaf of which was -written on both sides, signed, it appeared, by the said Don Antonio -Graziano. This duty performed, he arose and left, accompanying him to -the door, the same ones who received him, and I, the present Notary. The -door being closed his Lordship ordered inserted to the letter the -testimony, the tenor of which is as follows: - -In the City of Havana on the same day, Dr. Francisco de las Casas, -“Comissionado” of the Holy Office of the Inquisition in the City of -Carthagena, said: That last Sunday, the eighth of the current month, -seeming to him opportune, and by order of the Holy Tribunal for which -purpose he warned and made known to the present Notary and all the -gentlemen of the Board, that they might concur to their duty as ordered -by your Majesty, preceding these courtesies and compliments. - -That on the day appointed they should go from the residence of the Lord -Comissionado to the Holy Parochial Church of this City, in the order -referred in the testimony given by the present Notary. The function -terminated, they should leave the church, return to the residence of the -Lord Comissionado. It seems they wished to alter this form at the gates -and places they had been, and, as on the day of the Anathema the same -celebration must be repeated, the Lord Comissionado wished, with the -best intentions, and not to be lacking in the form observed by the -Tribunal for said act to which they should cling, this was entirely for -the reasons of his Office and to avoid public altercations, from which -originate unnecessary noise and unrest, contrary to the decency and -gravity of this Tribunal. This is well known to the Tribunal and Board -of said City, it must be done in the following manner: That the Board -should come in this form to the residence of the Lord Commissionado and -conduct him to the church, he going by the side of the Governor, the -other ministers each one between two Aldermen, according to the Office -and time of service and somewhat in advance of this Lord Commissionado -and Governor with the standard of the Faith which must be carried by the -person of greatest authority who should be present. The balls of the -standard by the next in authority. That on arriving at the church the -priests must come out to receive them, sprinkling them with holy water, -and conduct them to their seats, which shall be in the High Chapel, on -the Gospel side, in a chair covered with velvet and a carpet at the -feet. Consecutively, next to the Governor and Lord Commissionado on a -covered bench, the High Constable and other attendants and ministers of -the Holy Office. That the Governor and Board are to be seated thus the -day of publication, on the Gospel side; that the Lord Commissionado -should be the preferred in all things; that at the hour for leaving, the -Notary accompanied by two attendants, will mount the pulpit and from -thence he shall swear them in, in a loud voice, to the oath of Faith. -This finished, they are to take the Lord Commissionado back to his -residence. They are to try and carry out these ceremonies in as grave -and reverential a manner as possible, this being one of the most -important ceremonies of the Holy Office of the Inquisition, and this -City belongs to its District. There are reasons for other ceremonies, -and so I, the present Notary, was ordered to witness them, that I might -give testimony and the work proceed according to the acts published, and -so that all could be reported to the Lord Inquisitadores of the Holy -Tribunal. Then it was provided and ordered to be signed. - -DR. FRANCISCO DE LAS CASAS. - - * * * * * - -This agrees with the original which I have in my possession, and having -consulted the matter, the following was agreed upon: - -First: As regards the form in which the City, according to the acts of -Faith, must proceed to the Residence of the Lord Commissionado and -Minister of the Holy Office, as also in the public streets, we cite or -quote a Cedula from your Majesty where you refer to Don Juan Solozano, -whose political authority in Peru entitles him to have a voice, and on -this point we are warned by your Majesty to guard against the Lord -Commissionado assuming superiority of the Governor. In Peru, where the -matter was first discussed of precedence the form is as follows: The -City goes from the City Hall, as customary, to the residence of the Lord -Commissionado, where he is awaiting them in the yard. There he is -incorporated in the procession, being placed at the left of the -Governor, and all march in twos, the magistrates and constables of -longest standing given the preference, and the Ministers of the Holy -Office intermixed, but preference always to the Officers of Justice. On -arriving at the church, assigning seats and all through the ceremonies -care is taken that the greatest preference and respect be shown the -Governor, as stated in your Royal Cedula, and thus it was conducted last -Sunday in going and coming from which much discussion has arisen, as -certified in the testimony which I, the present Notary, insert to the -letter, although the Lord Commissionado states in the Auto that all -preference was given the Governor. - -1640. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - -A. D. 1655-1657. - - _An anonymous letter to his Majesty recounts the death of Governor - Benito Ruid Salazer by a contagious sickness during the absence of - the Sergeant Major--The office is held by two others pro tem.--They - also died suddenly after serving a short term--Certain officials of - the Garrison who are related meet at night and elect as Governor - Don Pedro Ruitinez--Who intimidates the people and squanders the - money sent for their support--The Treasurer a partner in the - illegality, and the Judge receives hush money--This Governor - maltreated an official who is also a soldier and a conveyor of - monies and goods for this port from Havana, for his - Majesty--Traffic in amber from the Indians--Taking the iron and - implements sent to be used in repairing the Fort as money to - purchase this amber--Declares he will consult his own pleasure - concerning the laws of the Church, taking communion once in one and - one-half years--A distressing condition of mismanagement--No name - signed to the letter--A report from Diego Rebolledo, 1657, - concerning the necessity of having an officer to guard the port for - incoming and outgoing vessels as pirates had frequently entered and - landed before notice could be given--Also the appointment of an - officer and twelve infantrymen to guard other ports of the - coast--He desists from building more fortifications because of the - opposition of the Friars, who protested that the proximity of the - Spaniards would retard the conversion of the Indians--The Governor - feels that the danger is far greater to the development of his - Majesty’s Provinces to allow the enemy a foothold in a Province as - rich as Apalachicola--The great distance of some of the - Provinces--Indians dying with smallpox--The burden of carrying food - such a distance on the shoulders of men--Fray Juan Gomez reports - (1657) of the uprising of some of the Indian Chiefs who march to - St. Augustine and hang the Governor because of his insistance on - their carrying heavy loads of corn into the settlement, when they, - the Indians, had vassals to perform such labors--Reports that the - Island of Jamaica is heavily fortified by the English who intend - taking Cuba--These reports causing much uneasiness in these - Provinces._ - - -A. D. 1655. - -_My Lord_: - -Moved by piety, and a desire for peace and quietude, it has seemed to me -timely to notify you regarding the Government of this Province and -Garrison of St. Augustine, Fla., being as you are so high and -compassionate a Minister, who is always thinking and caring for the -welfare of his people. My Lord, Governor Benito Ruid Salazar, former -Governor of this Province, died at the time the Sergeant-Major was -absent. God, it seems, took him by a contageous sickness, and although -two others have been nominated _pro tem._, by the death of Benito Ruiz, -the reins of government were left in charge of the Auditor Nicolas Ponce -de Leon, who governed for six months more or less, when he died -suddenly. For this reason, a few of the Officials of this Garrison, who -are related, met at night in different parts of the City, and with -sufficient defamatory speech elected as Governor Don Pedro Ruitinez, -with flattering promises to those who would give their vote. When he had -been Governor one year and a half, he had given twenty-three patents of -captain, the most of them to two companies of this Garrison, four -positions as wardens of the Fort, three Sergeant-Majors said to be -andantes--three Auditors, one Treasurer--calling himself Governor and -Captain-General. In granting these patents, and other things he has -done, he has thrown down the flags, and had the artillery at the Fort -salute. He arrived here on the seventeenth of July, with the Auditor, -Treasurer, Sergeant-Major and the two captains of infantry who all left -that court at the same time. The Sergeant-Major brought a Cedula from -your Majesty, for the Governor, which he presented to Don Pedro -Ruitinez, and it was not possible to comply with it, it being a military -promotion, placing the Sergeant-Major as Governor. Don Pedro Ruitinez -had received notice that Don Diego de Rolallado had been appointed -Governor and Captain-General of this Port--he sent some friends over to -Havana to meet and entertain him during his stay in that City, and thus -Don Pedro has maintained his friendly relations with the Governor, -although he has not said a word of how he intimidated the people to -elect him Governor--nor his other doings--nor how he refused to turn -over the Government to the Sergeant-Major. But he did demand his pay. -Your Lordship, the Governor and Captain-General arrived at this -Garrison on the 18th of June, 1654, having received in Havana $20,000 -sent by the Auditor and placed to the credit of this Garrison. This -money he used in Havana as follows: Goods--$7,000, gaining in this -purchase more than 200 per cent. He sent Don Alonzo Menendez with $8,000 -to relieve the suffering and need of the infantry and others who are in -your service, and he sold to advantage the remaining goods. In the month -of February of this present year there arrived a vessel laden with -flour, iron implements and other goods, and although it is true that the -person in whose charge they came, brought over $40,000 to be delivered -to this treasury, he only delivered $15,000, because in Havana the -duties were so heavy and they demanded the pay. The soldier in whose -care this money and goods came, is Domingo Nunez. He spent in Havana -$2,000 on clothing, filling an order received from the Governor, and -another $2,000 in clothing he was to bring from New Spain. The Governor -after ordering this became infuriated with Domingo Nunez, cursing him, -beating and slapping him in the most unheard of manner--accusing him of -not bringing all the clothing ordered, and finally he had him placed in -the stockade on the beach. He then had the boxes and packages taken to a -neighbor’s and soldier, and opened them--finding after pricing them and -adding one-fourth more than the cost to them, that they amounted to more -than the $2,000. He then went several times to Domingo Nunez, demanded -his papers, searched them, kept him in prison, and then without cause or -reason turned him out. It is true he becomes enraged for the slightest -cause. It is a positive fact, that he and another spendthrift named -Fanfan, have sent out from his (the Governor’s) house, chocolate to be -sold on the streets by his body guards. At the time there was such great -distress and scarcity, he sent out wine to be sold at such exorbitant -prices that only those compelled to have it could buy. In this tavern of -his, the people sell cutlasses for bread, chocolate and tobacco. In the -large store, run now by Lorenzo Josi, they sell rum and clothing--a -bottle of rum costs eight dollars which is an outrage. According to -Manuel Barrios, the tavern keeper, he makes thirty-one dollars on a -cask. Since there is no more money left to buy these commodities for -cash he has adopted another method of selling them in exchange for -labor, and makes out checks for this amount. My Lord, in the month of -July of last year, there came to this Garrison a party of Indians, who -live on the coast near the Bahama Channel with a large quantity of -amber, some of which they presented to the Governor, the rest they gave -in exchange for goods, and because a few of the soldiers bought some in -exchange for clothing he was exceedingly angry. When these Indians left -the land he had them followed by two rowboats with soldiers. He finally -sent Don Alonzo Menendez with goods that he should bring him all the -amber he could obtain, he also sent out others. The Lieutenants were Don -Alonzo Menendez and Juan Dominguez and Alonzo Garcia. This trading for -amber was carried on for six months. They used up all the iron -implements. At first we thought that these implements were broken and -thrust aside as worthless, soon, however, we discovered they were used -to trade for amber, as well as five hundred tons more of iron which was -brought from New Spain. All this was paid for from your Treasury. The -amber was sold in Havana for the sum of forty thousand dollars. In the -meantime the Fort has been allowed to suffer, it is falling to pieces in -many places, the timber that was cut in the forest has rotted and the -troops’ time and iron implements are all used in the trade for amber. -The infantry and other persons drawing a salary from your Highness have -been on several occasions in a great rage with the Treasurer who abuses -them and threatens them that Don Diego Rovellado will have them killed -in the field--the guards, for the slightest offense, are beaten through -the streets, and even imprisoned in the Church of San Francisco, and at -times when he can catch them in his own house he slaps and beats them -unmercifully. In a year and a half that he has been Governor he has only -once complied with the laws of the Church, confessing and receiving the -communion publicly. He says that every one can do as he pleases; that he -does as he pleases. At the Fort he does not have the flag hoisted, only -two guards at night and their round is an easy one, but he takes the men -to guard his house every night, paying them a few dimes, and in the day -he takes others to whom he pays two or three dimes, notwithstanding that -your Majesty sends money each year to pay these men, but I am told that -Don Diego Rovellado has paid the judge some five or six thousand dollars -and he can escape free from any charge made against him. All that I -state to your Highness in this letter, you may be quite sure is the -truth, and I hope you will deem it proper to relieve your vassals from -this unnecessary suffering. May God guard you and make you happy for -many years. - -NO SIGNATURE. - -St. Augustine, Fla., November 20th, 1655. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1657. - -_His Lordship_: - -Having begun the conversion of the Indians in the Province of Apalache -at the close of the administration of Governor Louis Harristenir, who -was immediately succeeded by Dannian de las Vegas. He placed a few -soldiers in this Province to guard the going out and incoming of -vessels. Having been informed that they entered and left the Port, and -there was no one to give any report of them. This guard was kept there -during the assumption of power by Benito Ruiz Salazar and the Auditor -Nicolas Ponce de Leon, until the Sergeant-Major Don Pedro Harristenir -entered as Governor. This latter, to please the Friar, he not only -dismantled the estates of your Majesty in those parts, but he also -retired the Lieutenant and soldiers who assisted him, having no one to -administer justice to the Natives, nor to give information concerning -the Post, and so, immediately upon my taking the place of Governor, -having been informed by the General Governors and other notables who -were convened in Havana, and notified further by all the principal -people of this Garrison who demonstrated how necessary it was to have a -Lieutenant in said Province to guard and advise, as there had entered a -vessel of the enemy, and the natives had aided them and supplied them in -exchange for furs, hatchets, knives and other goods, without its being -known in this Garrison. For this reason I named to the position Captain -Antonio Sartucha and two soldiers with the instructions which I send -enclosed--so that justice might be administered to the Natives, it being -too laborious and the distance too great for them to come to this -Garrison to adjust their quarrels and differences and to guard the Port -and advise me. In a few days after his arrival he notified me of another -vessel of the enemy (pirates) who had entered the Port. He asked for aid -for infantrymen, which I sent him, to the number of forty, in command of -Captain Gregorio Bravo. Before this aid reached him, the enemy was able -to procure what they wanted. By pushing into service the natives, he was -however able to prevent them from landing. It being urgent that I should -go in person to pacify and punish the natives of the Province of -Timagua, testimony of which decrees were made. I remit them to your -Majesty. I passed on to visit the other Provinces and investigate the -condition of the harbors. I did this with the consent of all the -Casiques, and the approved judgment of Fray Francisco de San Antonio and -other Friars, with the advice also of the Treasurer of the Royal -Hacienda, and many of the reformed natives. I left in command the -Sergeant-Major Don Adrian de Canizares, being a person of experience and -trustworthy, giving him twelve infantrymen with which to defend the Port -and coast of these Ports, and that he should administer justice to the -Natives for which purpose I elected a syndicate of Friars who work in -said Province, and some of their friends. Having determined upon this at -the time you ordered me to be vigilant and careful, since the English -enemy had attempted to occupy one of the Ports of this Province, -according to information given your Majesty by Don Diego Cardenas, -ambassador to England, and had been sent to me by Field Marshal Don Juan -Montiano, Governor who was of Havana--information he gained from some -prisoners, which confirms the information you had. There has been a -fleet of the enemy on these coasts of Florida and the Bahama Channel. -Although I had intended to increase the force of soldiers, build a Fort -and found a settlement of Spaniards as I reported was agreed upon in the -visit, which testimony, and that of the taxes and good government I -remit with the decrees. I have desisted from this on account of the many -contradictions and opposition of some of the Friars, who with the -pretext that the vicinity of the Spaniards would be dangerous to the -conversion, and who do not consider that this danger has a remedy, and -it would be much more dangerous that the enemy should occupy that Port -and plant foot on your territory and fortify themselves in a province so -rich and abundant as those of Apalachicola, the knowledge of which the -enemy is sure to be fully aware, and the danger would be irreparable and -would lose in totem the conversions of these Provinces, and this -Garrison would be unable to dislodge the enemy, from the distance at -which we are, and that we could not scatter our forces, being too few of -them, besides the consequences and damage which would accrue from -pirates on the coast of Havana and the Bahama Channel--and there is no -way of reaching us under five or six days of sailing. Finally your -Lordship, the greater part of these conversions are reduced to three -Provinces where Friars officiate--they are the Provinces of Guale, -Tunnuqua and Apalache. In the two first there are few Indians, because -for some time they have been diminishing, many having died out from the -plague and small-pox which has been raging. The same is the case in -Apalache, and in a few years very few will be left, and even now the -condition they are in, it is unnecessary to assign as many Friars as -you have. Besides their conversion would long be delayed owing to the -great distance from this Garrison, the impassable roads and untold -difficulties in sending relief, even should your Majesty send the -wherewith to do so. Food must be carried eighty leagues from this -garrison to the Province of Apalache and Chacata, on the shoulders of -men--the burden is often more than they can carry. Although I have been -admonished to relieve the twelve soldiers and Lieutenant for the good of -the natives and the benefit they receive. I have sent persons there to -remedy the evil, and seeing all I have herein stated that you may order -things as you deem most advantageous and I shall carry out your orders -regardless of the petitions of the Friars, who only base their -objections in not wanting the Spaniards about them, as in their present -condition they are absolute masters of the Indians. - -May God preserve your Catholic Majesty. - -DIEGO REBOLLEDO. - -St. Augustine, Fla., October 18th, 1657. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1657. - -Things are in a most disastrous condition in Florida, there will soon be -no government left, if God does not help us. The Casique of Tarihila -refused to send some of his principal Indians to St. Augustine with -heavy loads of corn. I don’t know why the Governor insisted on this -labor, but the Casique gathering together the other Casiques insisted -that their principal Indians should not be made to do this work that -they had vassals to perform their labor. The Governor took the refusal -much to heart, and as a man of so little experience insisted until he -caused them to rise. They said they were not slaves; that to obey God -they had become Christians--they had never been conquered, but had -listened to the word of God the Priest had taught them. So the Casique -of San Martin at the head and all the Casiques who would follow him, -which were the Casiques of Santa Fe, Potano and San Pedro, who marched -from San Francisco and San Mateo with the others, making in all eleven -Casiques, entered and hung the Governor. Think, your Fatherly Majesty, -of such happenings. In a land where such war is carried on, I cannot -tell you of the atrocities perpetuated by these poor Florida Indians. -Nor do you understand how the Island of Jamaica is settled by the -English, who have it well fortified with three strong Forts, and all the -harbors are guarded. All prisoners from there tell us, and all who come -from there tell us that now, in this month of May forty store ships -arrived for them, and it is their intention to take Cuba. This has been -known here and in Havana by mail, which has come. It is very important -to notify you of all this, for soon it will be impossible to travel from -here to Spain nor from there here. By giving this information I feel -that I fulfill my duty, and you can act towards your vassals in a -fatherly manner. - -FRAY JUAN GOMEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., April 4th, 1657. - - - - -CHAPTER IX. - -A. D. 1662-1670. - - _Report of Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez concerning the auditing of the - accounts and condition of the Royal Treasury--Reports the finding - of a large hill supposed to be a silver mine--Report of Juan - Cebadilla to his Majesty--The Governor not to keep the keys of the - Royal chest--The administration to be adopted with the negroes--Too - much harshness shown the Royal employees--Francisco Guerra y Vega - reports a Captain of the Garrison for indecency and offense to his - superiors, for which same he was reprimanded and imprisoned as a - warning, then given his liberty--The King to the Captain-General of - the Provinces of Florida--Instructions as to the continuance of the - passage to Marcana Guale--Founding the town of Santiago near - Augustine--The performing of certain duties by soldiers for which - money shall be paid--Soldiers shall be permitted to raise crops - which are their principal sustenance--That the Governor shall not - employ the people of the town in personal work for personal - aggrandisement--But shall look that he, the Governor, shall look to - the needs and wants of the people--By order of the King, 1670._ - - -_To His Catholic Royal Majesty_: - -Having presented before the tribunal on behalf of the Royal officers of -Guadalapara the sworn bills, and others not sworn to, by which were -adjusted and proven the accounts of your administration which had been -running from the 7th of March, 1663, up to August 15th of the same year, -it was found to result in a liquidated balance in favor of your Royal -Treasury. Information of which was immediately sent to Don Geronimo de -la Luna, judge for your Majesty, that he should have it delivered to the -Treasury. He provided an Auto ordering Don Diego Salazar, Treasurer, to -place it in the Treasury. This person replied to him stating that he had -no money whatsoever from Jacon or Virginia. The infantry I sent out to -investigate tell me that in the Province of Apalache there is a very -large hill, which, in their opinion, is a silver mine, from the -specimens found in the ground and from pieces they picked up on the hill -and brought as samples. Persons who are versed in such matters say that -from their accounts they must be mines. - -As these matters do not admit of delay, and much care and caution is -required, I am myself going to investigate the matter thoroughly, and -give you a long and detailed account, being absolutely necessary for the -tranquility of this Province. May God preserve your Majesty for many -years. - -ALONZO ARANQUI Y CORTEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., September 8th, 1662. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1666. - -_To His Catholic Royal Majesty_: - -On the 27th of November of this year we received a document from Your -Royal Highness with six orders containing the form and manner in which -the Royal Treasury must be conducted in its administration and other -things which were herein referred to, and what has passed in the -accomplishment of them. The order in which your Majesty states that the -Governor is not to keep the keys to the Royal Chest, but that your -officer alone must keep them, and that an account must be kept and sent -to this Treasury each year. We notified him and he obeyed, but as to its -accomplishment he desired us to say nothing to him about it, as things -were different here from other places--because all allowances and pay -are collected by his order, and thus he wishes the keys to the chest -where the money is kept. As to the accounts, he will provide them as -should be just, which is the same answer he gave before as shown in the -accompanying letter. The order for the administration that must be -adopted with the negroes was obeyed by the Governor, and all are placed -in compliance with it. We also notified him of the order your Majesty -sent, reproving him for speaking so harshly to your Majesty’s Royal -Employees. - -As the order sent by your Majesty regarding the labor of the estates, -all necessary steps have been taken. The one received stating that -hereafter one of your employees should be present at the paying of the -workmen, and the providing of supplies and ammunition for these forts, -was obeyed, and although the Governor also obeyed in the fulfilment of -it, he did not do so to the letter and there has been trouble between us -ever since. - -JUAN CEBADILLA. - - * * * * * - -_Your Highness_: - -Don Francisco Larra whom your Majesty has had the mercy to send as -Captain of a Company of soldiers to this Garrison of St. Augustine, -Fla., is a person of such daring, restless and bold and has a mind--who -is led astray by the impulses of his will--that with his manner of -acting and talking he has given offense to the better and greater part -of the people of this Garrison, not excepting the Ecclesiastics whom he -offends and speaks in such abusive and indecent a manner of their -character. And so on this account as well as the little respect with -which he treats me, not paying the slightest attention to my office -extrajudicially. I have admonished him in the kindest terms to correct -his ways and fulfill his duties as Captain of the Infantry--not alone -was this effort a vain one, but he took a bold and daring step with me, -in the presence of the Ministers and principal people of the -Garrison--for this incivility and profanation I had him imprisoned in -the Fort, expressing to him my wrath and indignation, a copy of which I -send you. With this as a warning, I then had him set at liberty. I beg -your Highness that seeing this, you will proceed as you think best for -the peace of this Garrison. May God give you the prosperity of a -Christian. - -FRANCISCO GUERRA Y VEGA. - -St. Augustine, Fla., September 2d, 1666. - - * * * * * - - -THE KING. - -_To My Captain-General of the Provinces of Florida_: - -The principal people of the town of Santiago de Tolomato have written me -a letter on the 21st of March, 1658, that Don Luis Reyes y Borhas, -being Governor of those Provinces, laid the foundation of the town of -Santiago, which is three leagues distant from the Garrison of St. -Augustine with the intention of continuing a passage to Morcana Guale -and surrounding Provinces and although at the founding there were many, -only about thirty remained including Casiques and persons of standing, -to continue the work. They beg that you will send more people, since -they are quick and disposed to work, so that they may complete the -passage as far as San Juan, a distance of twelve leagues, as much for -the relief of the soldiers as other things that may occur. That they -should not be called upon to perform other duties, as they have been by -the Governors who has not recompensed them for their services. Calling -upon them to unload vessels arriving at the Garrison, cut timber from -the forests and other services not in their line of duty, taking them -from their labor when planting corn, which is the principal sustenance -for themselves and families, causing them to lose their crops and suffer -hunger. Having seen in my Council of the Indias what I said to my Judge, -it has seemed right that I should order and command you, as I have done, -that hereafter you do not employ the people of said town in your own -personal work and that you proceed to preserve them and relieve their -wants by every possible means in your power and you will serve me best. - -I THE KING. - -Madrid, February 26th, 1670. -By order of the King our Lord. - -JUAN TUBIZA, -Chairman of the Council. - - - - -CHAPTER X. - -A. D. 1671-1673. - - _’Tis the judgment of the Court that Pedro Menendez received the - title of Governor of Florida by right of conquest, Captain-General - and Commander of the Fleet by appointment of the King, Don Felipe, - the Second, as well as other positions of trust because of his - valor and faithful service and that these titles shall be given to - his legitimate heirs and for which same the Don Gabriel Menendez - Tarres y Aviles doth petition and it is the judgment of this Court - that said titles shall be so conferred--Important papers burned in - Simancas--Manuel De Mendoza gives information commanded by his - Majesty as to the designs of the English enemy--The discovery of - the South Sea by the four vessels sailing through the Straights of - Magellan--Condition of this Garrison and fortification and other - Provinces implores assistance for completing the work already - begun--Report of Francisco De La Guerra y Vega to the King - concerning an Englishman taken prisoner while he was Governor--The - prisoner was one of a crew who landed in the Province of Guale--The - Indians killed seven men, imprisoned three and two women--They - proved to be part of company coming over to settle in St. - Elena--This man, who was second in authority in the settlement, I - detained as a prisoner, putting him on soldier’s rations--He was - turned over to my successor upon the expiration of my term of - office--An effort was made to break up this settlement upon your - Majesty’s soil, without success, however._ (1673.) - - -JUDGMENT OF THE COURT. - -The Governor, Don Gabriel Menendez Torres y Aviles, sets forth in the -preceding petition that His Highness the King Don Felipe II (whom God -grant may come to glory) agrees with the Governor Pedro Menendez y -Aviles, Knight of the Order of Santiago, that his uncle, brother of his -grandfather, had agreed about the year 1565, that he, the said Pedro -Menendez, had to discover all the provinces of Florida, settle and build -in them two or three towns, all at his own expense, for which service -your Grace granted him the title of Governor of said Province and lands -of Florida, with all the privileges and prerogatives that are granted -the other Governors of Castile--and that having set sail to accomplish -this, and make these settlements with a private galleon of his own, of -900 tons, and many other ships and vessels which he also carried at his -own expense and having conquered, as he effectively did, the said -Province, and having settled and established two towns in it, which are -today flourishing and supplying this crown, even before completion of -this conquest. Your Majesty has named him Captain-General of the Royal -Fleet which is to be commanded and joined in Santander against the -English, commanding him to assist in this military exploit, -notwithstanding that he is under obligations in the first place, by the -treaty and agreement he had made of discovering all the land of the -Province of Florida within the given term of three years counting from -the day he embarked and set sail in the Bay of the Port of Cadiz with -the fleet he carried for said conquest. Being of the greatest importance -the business for which the Royal Fleet was formed and arranged, and -while he was preparing and getting it ready, the said Governor Menendez -de Aviles died--and by his death the Duke of Medina Sidonia was -immediately named Captain-General. Afterwards having been asked on the -part of the legitimate heirs of the said Governor Pedro Menendez de -Aviles, the accomplishment of all these services which your grant had -offered him, it was contradicted by the Attorney-General of this -Court--taking advantage of one of said agreements which reads: “That if -in the expressed term of three years the Governor Pedro Menendez de -Aviles should not have finished and completed in all the said conquest -according to agreement, neither your Majesty nor any other Kings, your -successors, should be bound to fulfil any of the rewards offered.” For -this reason the heirs brought suit against the Attorney-General which -was continued. For sentence, by revision of the Court it was ordered to -be given to Don Martin Menendez, oldest brother of the petitioner, the -title of perpetual Governor of said Provinces, as had been done with his -uncle, and besides they were to give him forty thousand ducats of -silver. - -Withholding the charge of the Indias to augment from the right of -succession which his uncle left established, and a fishery in said -Province which the said Don Martin should select without any -remuneration for the many expenses he incurred in the conquest, Don -Martin Menendez having died without issue, or heir to his estate, the -petitioner asked they expedite the title of Governor upon him, as it was -expedient. Although endeavors have been made in the archives of Simancas -to find these papers, they have not been found, and it is said they were -burned in the fire which occurred in these archives. Imploring your -Majesty’s order that the pre-eminence and prerogative be reserved and -observed as with the title of all the other courts and marquises of -Castile, and also in consideration of the services rendered by the -Governor his uncle, and other Generals of the Indias who were members of -his house. Having seen in the Council of the Indias the petition and -letters patent of nobility, and considering the great services done by -Pedro Menendez de Aviles in the conquest of Florida as well as in other -positions of trust where he has acted with so much valor as to deserve -that his King Felipe the Second should have voluntarily given him the -title of Governor, and that his successors continue to occupy positions -as Generals--his house having spread such glory and honor as to be -noted, it has seemed well that your Majesty should grant the petitioner -the title of Castile, that he may enjoy the honors he so well deserves -as a reward for his many and remarkable services. Your Grace will -command that which is most deserved. - -Madrid, November 28th, 1671. - - * * * * * - -_Sire_: - -By Cedula of January 20th of this year, your Majesty commands me to give -information regarding the designs of the English enemy. Also of the -discovery of the South Sea by the four vessels which sailed through the -Strait of Magellan, from which I had news that they arrived at Baldivia -dismantled. A German Captain was in command. He showed great zeal in -serving you. He gave a long account of the Viceroy of Peru, and what he -intended doing. The Government Places under my charge are the Garrison -of St. Augustine, Harbour and Port of Apalache and the river St. -Catherine, a frontier of St. Elena, where the English enemy are at -present; a few other less important harbours, all of which I desire to -have guarded as by your orders I am obligated. - -As regards this Garrison, head of this Province, and the state of the -Fortification which is being built and the designs of the English enemy -and the overtures made by them. This being a frontier of the Province of -Guale where I have stationed some infantry to watch the movements and -intuitions of the enemy, and where they could detain them, while I sent -aid and as strong a reinforcement as possible. It seems the proper thing -for us to have sufficient troops there to impede the approach of the -enemy on this Garrison and place sentinels all along to notify should -they approach by land or sea. As to the Province of Apalache which falls -almost in the bosom of Mexico, I am sure it is a place of no less -importance than this Garrison, rather I should say more so, being -thickly settled and reached by land from all the Provinces far as New -Mexico, and all others still to be discovered far as the Strait of -David, of which the German Captain discourses at such length in his -statement. Besides, it is a fertile land, and much longed for by the -enemy as it is noted for its agriculture, for which cause it should be -well settled and fortified, its Harbour should have a good fort and at -least one hundred infantry who could at any rate give the English enemy -some trouble to occupy it or set foot in said Province. This should be -done to prevent any damage, not alone in the Province, but to vessels -plying the Mexican path. I implore you to look into the matter with the -care and attention the case requires. So far as I am concerned, I have -made every effort in my power to secure and protect it. I shall try to -push this building through rapidly, that I may go and reconnoitre that -Province, carrying with me the military engineer, Ygnacio Daza, who -resides in this Garrison, that he may point out what is needed at -present. I implore your Majesty most earnestly to look with pious pity -upon your Royal Provinces and send all the assistance you can to -complete this building and the other works of which this Garrison stands -in such need, lacking all the means of protection by which we can serve -your gracious Majesty. - -May God spare you for many years. - -MANUEL DE MENDOZA. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Dec. 15th, 1672. - - * * * * * - -1673. - -_Your Majesty_: - -In a letter of Yours of the present month and year, you tell me that -seeing in the Council a letter which was received, written in English, -it was agreed that I should inform you of what had happened to an -Englishman, said to be prisoner in St. Augustine, Fla., where I was -Governor. The cause and pretext for making him a prisoner. Complying -with what your Majesty asks, I inform you in the following manner: - -About the end of May of last year there arrived in one of the ports of -the Province of Guale, which belongs to the Christian Indians, an -English vessel. Some of the crew having landed in a launch, the Indians -of that Province killed seven men, imprisoned three men and two women, -then the vessel with all speed turned and went off, not giving time that -from St. Augustine, where I was Governor, we should send help to those -Ports to aid in imprisoning them. Bringing me these prisoners I ordered -that their declaration be taken, at which I was present. They declared -that they had come over with vessels to settle in the Port of St. Elena, -distant from the Garrison of St. Augustine forty or fifty leagues north. -In the month of June of last year there came to the Garrison a soldier -with the news that the vessels had returned and entered the same Port, -reinforced and with the flag of truce, the captain and four other men -had landed and that speaking to a Lieutenant in command of the infantry -on guard, they told him how they were establishing a settlement near St. -Elena, with two hundred men, and that they came in search of the -prisoner, delivering at the same time to the Lieutenant two letters from -the Governor of that settlement, written in Latin, in which he asks that -the prisoner be delivered, if not, they declared themselves enemies. - -With this news I called a general meeting of the Royal Officers and -Commanders of the war, from which resulted that all agreed it was the -better way to serve God and your Majesty, and secure the quietude of -those Provinces, to break up said settlement, and that we should go to -work before they fortified themselves and take possession of more land. -For this purpose they prepared themselves and equipped three vessels at -that time in Port. The Chief in command being appointed by the Board, -assigning him a number of warriors to obtain the object for which they -went. A storm overtook the vessels and they could not get there in time -and so arrived without accomplishing anything. Of the referred to -notice, on two or three occasions, it was presented to your Majesty and -to the Marquez of Macera, Viceroy of New Spain, always stating what was -best to the service of God and your Majesty. To make every effort to -dislodge the said settlement, it belonging to the Christian Indians, and -they being new to our doctrine, might be easily influenced by the -heresies of the English. And although not new to our Holy Faith, we -might have the same doubts as they are a variable and roving people. It -was advisable for your Majesty’s service that we should dislodge them at -that time, that they might not possess themselves of that Province and -the interior land, and make themselves owners. It would not be well to -have a settlement of a strange Nation on your Majesty’s territory -without your orders. From this information I awaited a reply to follow -out the Orders from your Majesty and the Viceroy, and that together you -would aid me, and with some help, as that Post lacks people, I detained -the prisoner, not ill-treating him, in the house of one of his -countrymen, allowing him military rations, which is what the soldiers in -service have. As I was advised that the prisoner was the second person -in authority in that settlement, I placed him under better security, -that he might not escape and inform them of the lack of forces in the -Garrison, for without doubt knowing it the settlement would come and -take possession at very little cost. Just at this time my term of -Governor came to an end, without having determined upon a method to work -in this affair, I turned all over to the Governor, my predecessor, that -he might act as ordered in the reply to my information. This is all that -I can tell you regarding the English prisoner. By this the Council will -know that I always worked with Christian zeal, trying to stop anything -opposed to the increase of our Holy Catholic faith. God preserve you -many years. - -FRANCISCO DE LA GUERRA Y VEGA. - -Madrid, July 12th, 1673. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. - -A. D. 1675. - - _Letters to the King from the Governor, Pablo Ita Salazer--The oath - administered in the tower of the old Fort, which is tumbling - down--The Garrison in want of supplies and ammunition--No - warehouses--Exposed to the fatalities of the weather--The Fort in - danger from pirates--Necessary to use Spanish daggers for the land - side protection--More money badly needed to finish the - works--Importance of the Castle to the Garrison--A pentagonal form - recommended--A hundred men needed to guard the Castle--The Viceroy - of Spain did not send the ten thousand dollars--Fort in danger from - pirates--Two hundred leagues from Havana and five hundred from New - Spain._ - - -A. D. 1675. - -_Sire_: - -I have repeatedly given you an account of the manner in which I assumed -control of this Government, taking the oath of fidelity in the tower of -the Old Castle, which is almost in ruins, the artillery dismounted and -scattered as if on a beaten field of battle. The blind obedience my duty -demands in any employment of your Majesty, forces me to again repeat the -condition of things. The old wooden Fort is in ruins, the stone one -incomplete and with no defense whatever. No income or means to finish -it. In the commissary department only one hundred “arrobas” of corn, and -no other produce of any description. The Garrison is in the greatest -want, as no vessels with supplies have yet arrived from New Spain. -Seeing that we could not hold out three weeks longer, I seized two small -vessels carrying about two thousand arrobas of corn. As the Fort was in -such a demolished condition, with no defense and exposed to losing what -was done, I detained these vessels, intending to give them some amount -of embargo, conceding to each his share, but having communicated it to -the Royal Officers, they thought it too severe treatment and that I -should pay freight and the conquered’s pay; that it would be better to -pursue such a course. I let the matter stand for the present, retained -the crew and the vessels I sent to bring peons to continue the building -of the Castle, which is so absolutely important. This was done with the -greatest care and promptness, as demonstrated on the maps I submit to -you. Being entirely without means for carrying on this work, I implore -you will send it. The Fort has neither walls nor moat, some of the -ramparts only half finished, no means of closing it to make it secure. -It would seem that they have been careless in the guarding of the Fort, -sending only twenty-five men each day to do duty when it should have at -least one hundred men constantly on the watch. I repaired things as well -as I could for the lodging of the men and guards that they might stay -in, as is done in Flanders and Milan and other places, but the Officers -refuse to occupy them, stating they are in no condition nor have they -sufficient conveniences for them to go in. As it will be profitable and -advantageous to you, I implore you again not only to send the money but -the order compelling them to enter at least one hundred to guard the -Castle. May God guide thee in what is right. - -PABLO ITA SALAZAR. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Aug. 23rd, 1675. - - * * * * * - -_Your Highness_: - -Not to fail in my duty, knowing as I do from twenty-two years’ service -in your Majesty’s States of Flanders and other ports, the importance of -fulfilling. It has seemed necessary for me to give you a full and -detailed account of the fortification being built in this Garrison by -your Royal Order. I have already informed you of the condition I found -it in, on assuming control of this Government of Florida. Considering it -one of your defenses and territory under whose banner it was conquered, -I have taken the greatest pains to investigate matters thoroughly. At -first I could not give as true a statement as I should have wished, -seeing so many faults and errors; but the untiring efforts I have made -to ascertain facts have brought to light certificates of the enormous -cost of this building. Being a place for the defense of the Bar, or -entrance to the Harbor, I find that by making this fortification in a -pentagonal form the bulwarks will point directly towards the Bar serving -to defend from and towards an attack, and by building a battery it -covers us in a measure from the enemy. Wishing to discuss this matter I -called a meeting of the Royal Officers showing them the great saving of -cost to the Royal Exchequer; but they seem opposed to the plan and, -having no orders from your Highness, I am obliged to leave the work as -it is. My greatest desire is to finish it and have the opportunity of -defending - -[Illustration: Remains of the St. Augustine City Gateway.] - -it with my life. As on other occasions in other places, I have exposed -that life. God grant you a long life. - -PABLO ITA Y SALAZAR. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Nov. 23rd, 1675. - - * * * * * - -_Sire_: - -Having done me the honor to appoint me Mayor of the new city of Vera -Cruz and port of San Juan de Ulloa, you still further honored me by -appointing me Governor of Florida. - -I immediately began an investigation of the state of the Old Castle and -the new stone one being made by your order. In the first place I found -it had the shape which will be clear to you in the report and letter of -the same date as this. Secondly, they continued with many difficulties -the building of the new one, as the Viceroy of New Spain has not -assisted with the ten thousand dollars a year to which this Garrison is -entitled by provision of your Majesty, and as you have no money or other -effects in your Royal Chests to supply the wants, I have made it known -to the Archbishop and Viceroy of New Spain by report and petition, -showing them how urgent it was to send us a certain sum for the -continuance of the building. I also notified the Judge of the Royal -Audience of Mexico, as is evident through all that I place before you -also what I have forwarded to the general finance office, who refused to -send any sum whatever until I had from this Garrison given a report of -the state of the building of the Castle, and the distribution made of -the salary assigned since I took possession of this Government. I found -the Port in a most dilapidated condition with no defense. I took the -oath of fidelity as you ordered, and not to be wanting in my duty as a -faithful vassal, as by being this, I have merited the great honors you -have bestowed upon me in the field. Having taken the oath I received -different Royal Cedules, among them one in which you command the Viceroy -to send ten thousand dollars more for the building, and that the -citizens and soldiers aid as far as they are able, as is done in other -places, as the benefits redound to their good and security. I must tell -you that they do, coming in person to assist in the building, with the -accustomed punctuality which is all they can do, because this Garrison -is composed of a few married soldiers who are extremely poor, their -income not exceeding the salaries earned each year. This being a land of -no commerce nor communication by entrances or departures of vessels, -there being no produce or other necessaries with which to accumulate an -income. And although you pay their salaries they never receive it in -full, as they must first assist in the buying of accoutrements for the -three vessels that bring the supplies. From their salaries they have -also paid for the repairs of the Old Castle and the furtherance of the -new building, warehouses, Royal Houses and all other necessary things -which present themselves in a post, as you have not assigned to this -Garrison any means for similar expenses, nor is there anything in the -Royal Chests. There are no rents of any kind to supply them and it is in -charge only of Royal Officers. The poor allowance divided among the -infantry and the state of the Castle will be evident to you from the -reports sent you, and I assure you that having served you for a period -of forty-two years in the armies of Germany, Flanders and Badajos, in -none of them have I been so well pleased as in this one, for the many -difficulties and dangers. The lack of means for completing the -fortification, the invasions and the lack of forces in which I find -myself, as you will see by the lists I forward you of the subjects who -are disabled and old and enjoy the privileges of false muster through -your kindness. The soldiers and sailors, who at present run on these -vessels and are absent most of the time, and those who are on guard as -sentinels. So, when the boats are obliged to go out for supplies I am -left with about eighty men who can serve. Besides this, we have no -ammunition nor supplies, so much so that when I arrived the want was so -great that families were obliged to go in the woods and hunt for roots -to keep themselves from starvation. So exposed and in need were they -that had a vessel landed and offered them food they would have miserably -surrendered. And we are always thus exposed to this fatality, because we -have no warehouses of food supplies as in every other port such as San -Juan de Ulloa, Acapulco and Morro of Havana, in these parts. My -experience in Flanders, Castillo de Amberes, Gante y Cambria, they have -supply stores of vegetables, biscuit, cheese and hung beef, enough to -last at least one year. I have sent them supplies for a long time, for -in cases of accident, and here on account of the distance and slowness -of communication there should be more care. Havana, the nearest point, -is two hundred leagues, and New Spain is five hundred, so you see the -vessels have to sail a long way exposed to the fatalities of storm, -weather and pirates, which can at any time overtake them. I have -thought proper to place all these statements before you, as being so -important to your Royal Service you may consider them. And I beg you -will aid in this building of the Fort, by sending the required means for -its continuance. It would be a very great affliction for these Provinces -to leave it in its present state. While I have seen many castles of -importance and great renown, none surpass this one, nor have been built -at so small a cost in the Indies, as will be demonstrated to you in the -accompanying certificates given by the Royal Officer. It seems that the -peons earn only one real a day and three pounds of corn, making the -twenty-five pounds come to eight reals, which is the correct price. -Their living in other places would be at least four reals. Two of the -Captains who assist in the building and hewing of stone, earn only six -reals a day, where in other places they would make at least three and -four dollars per day. All the material and other things needed are in -other places placed convenient for the workmen, so that had it been -built elsewhere than in this Garrison it would have cost more than -eighty thousand dollars. I find it very damaging for this Garrison to be -without any fortification. We are obliged to tear down the old Castle -just next to it, and the new one is not yet closed in, so that we fear -the enemy who with a much larger force could easily capture us. They are -only distant fifty leagues, two days’ sailing, and once that they were -owners of this Port, they would be of the entire Province destroying all -the conversions of the Indians who to the service of God are supported -and protected by the King and a great trouble to your vassals who sail -back and forth in the commerce with this America. Being owners, they -would have all the ports, and with their pirates stationed everywhere -that vessels should pass. I feel the Port a little more secure than when -I came, for one of the bastions is about completed, and by closing the -other side looking landward with a palisade of Spanish daggers and tuna, -I can retire if it should become necessary. In the meantime your Majesty -will kindly apply the means sufficient to finish the work as speedily as -possible, as the petition states the danger and risk this Garrison is -in. May God spare you many years of the work of Christianity. - -PABLO ITA Y SALAZAR. - -St. Augustine, Fla., June 15th, 1675. - - - - -CHAPTER XII. - -A. D. 1675. - - _An effort to be made to dislodge the English from Santa - Elena--Orders to complete the Castle--Appalache considered the best - Province for settlement--Families from Yucatan for settlers, also - the Carrabies--Supplies sent from New Spain--Barracks to be made in - the Fort for the soldiers--Money sent to finish the new Castle, - also supplies for the soldiers--The neighbors to assist in building - the new Castle--Repairs on the bulwarks at Guale--Increase of - troops ordered for St. Augustine--A Fortress ordered built at - Appalache for the defense of that Province._ - - -By dispatch of the same month and year notice was given Governor Pablo -Ita Salazar of the commands issued to his predecessor and to the Viceroy -of New Spain regarding the dislodging of the English from the Port of -St. Elena, of which they had taken possession with the intention of -settling near the mouth, which in effect they did, occupying a passage -called St. George. For this reason notice was sent the Sergeant-Major -Nicolas Ponce de Leon to proceed to dislodge the English from this -settlement, gathering all the forces of that Province and asking aid of -the Viceroy of New Spain who was ordered to reinforce him with what he -needed. He did not think there would be any considerable difficulty in -accomplishing this, as from four English fugitives he had learned all -they had done. - -By another dispatch the Governor of Florida was told that the Viceroy of -New Spain had notified them of having aided that Garrison with all the -supplies needed. As to the hundred families he asked for, that should go -as laborers for the increase and culture of crops, they would look into -the matter and attend to his representation of it when the case came up, -and he was specially charged to be very careful and watchful in -completing the Castle and defense of that Garrison. - -By Cedula of 1673 the Governor of Yucatan was asked to send to Florida -twenty-four families of Indians--master weavers--for the increase of -those Provinces for which purpose he would place himself in -correspondence with the Governor of the Islands, that both might work -out the best means of accomplishing it. - -The Governor of Florida replied that the best and most desirable -Provinces for the Spanish nation to settle would be Appalache and others -very near it. It was exceedingly fertile, and if the settlers were -laborers the crops would be very abundant. They gather wheat as -abundantly as corn which is the general sustenance. It would be easy to -grow the fruits, the land being level and easy to reach on account of -the many navigable rivers--to cultivate the lands in cotton, grain and -indigo, which grows wild in those Provinces and the crops lost for the -want of some one to cultivate them--and it would pay beautifully. This -could be increased by putting the twenty-four Yucatan families in for a -limited time. Having seen all this in the Council, they again commanded -the Governor of Yucatan to place himself in communication with the -Governor of Florida and try to send these families, since such great -gain would result from it, to those who go as native Indians of Florida -to whose Governor he ordered, if this was carried into effect to supply -them with the necessaries as per order of Cedula of 1673. - -By dispatch of this same year the Governor of the Canaries was ordered -and informed of the statement made by the Government of Florida -regarding the hundred families going over to settle, telling him the -means which could be used, and that it be carried and quickly and -effectively that they might have the chance of obtaining the settlements -of these Provinces. The Council of War having seen what Governor Pablo -Ita Salazar had to say of the lack of food from which the Province was -suffering, and the lack of means for obtaining it, commanded the Viceroy -of New Spain to send that Garrison the necessary supplies for six months -in advance, both ammunition and food, on account of the condition of the -Garrison, so that it could be prepared for any emergency which might -arise, and not be without defense, and to give an account of its -execution. It was also commanded the Viceroy to send the necessary money -to Florida that they might make Barracks and lodgings in the Fort for -the soldiers who entered as guards, that they might be comfortable under -cover and suffer less hardships. He was advised that all should be done -with as little expense as possible, and to communicate with the Governor -to whom the same order had been given. He said Don Pablo Ita Salazar -made a report of the state in which he found the building of the new -Castle in Florida, and the lack of means with which to continue it. The -Council of War having seen this report notified the Viceroy to send the -supplies of three hundred troops, the quota of that Garrison, and three -thousand dollars to be expended in the delayed fortification of said -Castle; approved by the Governor, it should continue the work of the -Castle, and he was recommended to try and reduce the expenses to the -absolute necessary. That the neighbors might help in the building, as -they were interested, and it was for their own convenience and defense -that they could assist without loss of time, and with the supply of -three hundred troops who would remain in the Castle. That the number of -soldiers there was so reduced it would not only pay the people well but -there would be a surplus of capital to provide all that was needed. That -this complement of infantry should be kept in the Garrison, and his -Majesty had resolved to send a hundred more soldiers by the first -opportunity. He again commanded the Viceroy to punctually supply the -wants, so that no cause can stop the building of the Castle. - -In a letter of August 24th, 1675, the Governor, Don Pablo Ita Salazar, -reported to have decided upon making a roof or covering for the bulwarks -at Guale, to put the powder and other ammunitions used in the Garrison, -and a Barracks and guard house, because what they had was of wood and -exposed to incendiaries. That the Royal Officers were so opposed he -desisted in its execution to avoid unpleasant encounters until it should -be known in the Council, and together with the reports of the Officers. -He ordered the continuance of the Castle for better security and defense -at the least cost to the Royal Treasury. - - -FORTIFICATION OF APPALACHE. - -Don Manuel Cendiga, being Governor of Florida, reported among other -things the need of infantry in that Garrison--of what they had, much was -in the Province of Appalache which belongs to that jurisdiction. For -this reason his Majesty resolved to increase the troops of the Garrison -of St. Augustine. He commanded the forty-three missionaries and the -Viceroy of New Spain to order the Royal Officers of Mexico to increase -the supply of troops in Florida, so that the quota remain at three -hundred and fifty, besides the missionary fathers who must punctually -supply them each year and solicit their complement. - -Don Pablo Ita Salazar, Governor of Florida, gave a report of the -numerous infidel Indian settlements there were in the Province of -Appalache, and that in the Province of Guale the English had a -settlement at St. George. That with the vexations, killing and thefts, -with the vicinity of one and the other the Christian Indians receive, we -find the only remedy to be in erecting a fortification in the Province -of Appalache and place in it one hundred soldiers, and a body of one -hundred families around them. Then we might promise to keep them in -obedience and subjection to this throne. The Council having seen this, -ordered that at present they should prepare to make a fortress in the -Port of Appalache in the best and easiest manner for the defense of that -Port, and report by the first opportunity the time and amount required -for building it. By still another dispatch he ordered the Governor to -send a perfectly clear report of what he had already done regarding the -fortress of the Port, and of all the Province; the spot best adapted for -it, the form and disposition, forces needed for the defense, and if -there would be any difficulty in opening up the entrance of the Bay, -where it was built; the depth of the water, if vessels could enter, and -of what tonnage; have a very careful and minute report from some one of -experience and a master. Send a map and report attached of what this -work will cost, giving your opinion so that seeing it and the -information asked on the matter the most advantageous resolutions may be -taken for the security and defense of that Province. - - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - -A. D. 1680-1685. - - _Letter from Pablo Ita Salazer to his Majesty--Indians of the - Province of Guale ally themselves with the English and together - with over three hundred men make war against the Spaniards of the - Island of St. Catherine--Surprising and killing the sentinels, only - one of whom escaped to warn the Garrison--The people gather in the - convent of a Friar and defend themselves from daylight until four - o’clock, when aid from this Garrison reached them--The enemy - retires--Natives of the Island greatly alarmed--Disquieting news of - the intentions of the enemy upon this Garrison--Implores the aid of - the King quickly that the English may be ejected from the land--Don - Juan Marquez Cabrera, Governor and Captain-General of Florida, - gives an account to his Majesty of hostilities in the - Provinces--Two Fleets, French and English, going and coming from - Havana--Seize Fort Matanzas and after plundering, burn it to the - ground--Is being rebuilt--Great depredations committed up and down - the coast by the enemy--Indians and half-breeds taken and sold into - slavery--Pushing the work on the Castle--Grieved over its slow - progress, owing to lack of workmen--Begs to be allowed to retire - because of age and long service--To Charles II, our principal - Casique, the King--From the people of the territory of - Habalache--The King to the Governor and Captain-General of Florida - concerning ten negroes from St. George who asked for the waters of - baptism--A Sergeant-Major from St. George comes to claim - them--Because they have become Christians the Spanish King decides - to buy them--After receiving a receipt they are to be set at - liberty, each one given a document to that effect--The King - reprimands Don Diego Quirago for not immediately attending to these - matters--Orders a full account to be sent as soon as it is - accomplished._ - - -A. D. 1680. - -_Sire_: - -In a letter of April last year I stated to you the misgivings I felt -about the English who have populated the Province of Carolina and River -St. George. In November of the following year I repeated this with some -evidence, and such a plan or a map from the River St. George to Mobile. -Afterwards I was notified that five Englishmen had put to flight one of -the Towns and penetrated as far as the Province of Guale, which belongs -to the jurisdiction of this Garrison, where they came to take -declarations and give information concerning the coming of the English -to those parts; all of which I submit to your Majesty. - -My duty today is to give an account of what happened in the Province of -Guale this year. The Chuchumacos, Bechizes and Chulucas who were at war -among themselves, but had maintained friendly relations and trading with -this Province, became friendly with the English and have declared -themselves our enemies. They made an invasion first on the Island of -Guadalquiri in Guale, then on the main land they killed and scalped a -number of the Natives until these latter rallied and, with one of our -Lieutenants at the head, sallied forth and repulsed them. A few days -later they made an entrance on the Island of St. Catherine, one of the -frontiers, with a force of over three hundred men. They killed the -Sentinels who were six in number, one only escaping, who gave the alarm -and the citizens were able to defend themselves. There were forty-five -Spaniards from this Garrison and about a hundred Natives. They took -refuge in the Convent of the Friar, who teaches the Gospel in that -Province, Captain Francisco Suentes, whom I sent two years ago to take -charge of that place, who defended himself and army with great valor and -distinction from daylight until four o’clock in the afternoon against -these Indians, who were armed with firearms. Instantly upon receiving -information of the danger I sent aid to the number of thirty soldiers on -foot and a vessel with eighteen marines. When they arrived the enemy had -retired. I am assured that among them were several Englishmen who -instructed them in the use of the firearms, which consisted of long -guns. This caused great consternation and horror among the natives who -at first evacuated the Island of St. Catherine, but am informed have -since returned doubling their forces. I had sent eight men to them from -this Garrison and I am resolved to send twenty--it being a place of the -utmost importance to this Garrison, as a protection against invasions -and also to obtain food and supplies. The entrance to the Bar of Zapola -is easy and distant from it, as you can see on the map, only two -leagues. Information has been brought me by a pilot, who left here and -was taken prisoner by the French, that he overheard them say they would -come to this Province, possess themselves of the Island and Bar of -Zapala. This is damaging news, and my greatest trouble is lack of -troops, for altogether I have only some two hundred and ninety. I have -increased this with a few natives of seemingly good disposition, should -a fight occur in this Fort, but so inexperienced that they could not -support us. This Post is mainly composed of mariners, pilots, -shipmasters and mates, twelve artillerymen, six widows and a few -children to whom, through your mercy, you grant pay, and ten or twelve -decrepit old men who by age are exempt from toil. I have twenty-four men -in Apalache, distant eighty leagues, and two in Timuqua, two in the pass -of Salamatoto, ten leagues distant from this Garrison. The sentinels of -Matanzas and the Bar. All this causes me great distress as I should be -obliged to repair to the field and I have no resources possible with so -few people. Notwithstanding, I propose, with the help of God, to improve -it, and thus will the conversions advance and secure the road to Mexico. -It is expedient to run the English out of that land, and there are not -two hundred firearms in the armory nor among the soldiers and natives. -If the thirty lancers and hundred infantry I sent for three years ago -had come, things would be in a different shape. With a hundred families -to protect, a good deal of aid is needed as speedily as possible and -your Majesty will send them promptly as to the interest of your service. -God protect you. - -PABLO ITA SALAZAR. - -St. Augustine, Fla., May 14th, 1680. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1682. - -_Sire_: - -Don Juan Marquez Cabrera, your Governor and Captain-General of the -Provinces of Florida, gives you an account of how since last February of -this year they have experienced many hostilities in these Provinces from -two French and English fleets who, since they discovered and settled -with ten vessels they brought on these coasts towards the south, have -taken and settled all the entrances and Ports, having seized seven -vessels that were coming and going to the City of Havana, entered and -plundered the Fort of Matanzas with no resistance from those within, and -on another occasion in the same place, where there were forty-five -Spaniards, captains, lieutenants and soldiers, there came four hundred -Indians with firearms and arrows to one of the trenches at the edge of -the two rivers at the foot of the Fort and this time they did not -discharge a single shot, but set fire to the Fort and burned it, being -of wood. I am again rebuilding it in the shape of a bonnet or cap with -its inclinations bias, which it did not have before, with twenty-five -stone houses, so that twelve or sixteen soldiers can defend it. On -retiring they entered the River of Point Martin in Laungara, eighteen -leagues inland and forty from this Garrison; thirty-five Frenchmen -entered and plundered the estate Lachua, imprisoning the owner and some -of his slaves and other persons and their servants. They were assisted -in this by three of the neighbor Casiques, with sixteen Indians. As they -retired they were met by an ambush who liberated the owners of the -estate with the loss of one Indian. Although there were five Spaniards, -with the degree of Captain who enjoy the rank and pay, excused -themselves on the occasion because they feared if they had any one to -encourage them the enemy would not have left one. As soon as I received -the news, although I am very scarce of people for the defense of the -Castle, I made every effort possible to send the Sergeant-Major of this -Post with forty soldiers as quickly as possible. Finding the enemy -already embarked, I ordered him to obstruct the river, seeing the danger -to this Province, not having had any orders from you to keep it open. -Notwithstanding all the Sergeant-Major’s efforts to place obstructions, -I fear the enemy will invade this Garrison if only to see the Fort that -is being built. It is to be in the shape I have shown you on the map, -and plan I have given the Adjutant Alonzo Solano, superintendent of the -work, a man of much intelligence and quite capable of carrying it on. At -the time the French were destroying the estate Lachua the English landed -at the bar of Mosquito Inlet; they killed ten Indians and captured -eighteen. They had also captured the frigate that left this Post for New -Spain; they captured it with a pirate vessel which had come from -Jamaica, as testified to by the “Autos” I sent, in which I also stated -the other hostilities and depredations as you can see in the Office of -the Royal Council. It is a source of grief to me to see the manner in -which they take these poor Indians and sell them into slavery, as they -have done with many, selling them on the Island of Barbado. They even -take the mixed ones, children of Spaniards and Indians. Although I am -quite advanced on the building and defense of the Castle, I feel -disconsolate when I think of the scarcity of troops and the inferior -quality of those I have who are cowardly and pusillanimous as I have -before represented them to you. I repeat it, in hopes that you will send -me at least two good Captains and a hundred first class men. Besides -being dastardly those I have, many of them are too old to be of service, -having been retired and pensioned off. I am heartily sick of those who -have been pensioned off, and of the children who have been pushed into -service with no other object than to receive the pay. While mindful of -the humane interests, this at times is exceedingly trying to my -patience. And so, since the Fort is assuming such shape, I implore you -to give the order needed of sending more men. I also implore your -Majesty that having served you so many years without complaint against -me, that you will replace me in this Garrison and give me permission to -retire. - -God grant you a long and prosperous life. - -JUAN MARQUEZ CABRERA. - -St. Augustine, Fla., July 16th, 1682. - - * * * * * - -CHARLES II, OUR PRINCIPAL CASIQUE, TO THE KING. - -God, who with His power has created us from nothing, it being His -will--we live, although with work and misfortune, it matters not how, so -we live, with our limited understanding, every day without ceasing as we -are commanded by our Creator, since He so wishes it, we praise and -reverence Him. Leaving this apart we also, the nobility and all in -general, old men and old women, children, orphans and disabled, as many -as are found in this territory called Habalache, every day we say it -seems to us, we do not reverence, embrace and receive in our hearts our -principal Casique and King and his noble words. Saying this among -ourselves it seems to make us more humble and disposed to receive your -words when it reaches our ears. As at present, we could long since have -written you, for the obedience we show you, and not waited for your many -noble works, and to make known to you of what we are here seeing and -suffering, being not only ourselves, but all in this world, who were -created from nothing by the will of God. Our priests whose duty it is to -care for our souls, cleanse them and absolve them, teaches us good -things, and takes away and quenches in us ugly and evil things helping -us on to be good Christians, as it is for this you have shown us such -great mercy, and so we recognize it, and are believing with one heart. -Second: Although we are ignorant people, we think that our hearts and -souls belong to our Creator--our bodies and their government, and to -whom they belong to teach and punish is to our Head, whom thou art, and -whom we recognize as our chief Casique and King, and as the grass grows -and has roots, bathed by the dews of night, so we and all your miserable -vassals are nourished by your noble words, and although bodily we do not -see you with our eyes, we take it from the one who represents you as -your Governor and Captain-General--and to him we look as to you and as -your words coming from him who we see, hear and understand, and guard, -believing and obeying him-- - - * * * * * - -_Sire_: - -From information that I was able to gather by means of gifts to the -native Indians, I succeeded in finding out the designs of the settlers -of St. George and of the new settlement in St. Elena, where this -Garrison was first--distant from here some sixty leagues. About 50 -Indians, with orders from the Governor of St. Elena, were to enter the -Province of Tamaqua, do all the damage and hostilities they could, -taking prisoners and killing the natives. I immediately sent a dispatch -by carrier to the Lieutenant of that Province to be on guard and care -for the towns. It seems that some six hours before he received my -notice, they had entered and destroyed the town of Afinca, a place of -about sixty natives. About fifty men entered with sixteen guns and the -balance with bows and arrows and machetes, everything exactly as I had -been informed. They belong to the Yamares nation who have retired from -this dominion and gone over to the English. They killed and carried off -the prisoners as certified by a letter from the Lieutenant. I have -restored as far as possible the Garrison of Tamaqua for the peace of its -natives. If I had had the force sufficient I would have sent the vessels -that I have to the settlement of Santa Elena and done them some damage, -but, as it is, I have not sufficient forces for anything. The two -Captains experienced in that part of the country are old, one of 70 and -the other 60 years old. I am sorry to say, the enemy are settling in the -interior, where they find the lands so rich and productive of all kinds -of fruit. Should they come here they could easily capture us for the -lack of men--we need men--more troops. I am informed that forty days -ago, eleven vessels with seven hundred men, had been sent out from -England. I am awaiting them with fear, for lack of men and ammunition we -have. I also distrust my sentinels. I hope you will immediately send me -re-enforcements. - -God preserve you, etc. - -JUAN MARQUEZ CABRERA. - -St. Augustine, April 15th, 1685. - - * * * * * - - -THE KING. - - - _To my Governor and Captain-General of the City of St. Augustine in - the Province of Florida, and Field Marshal Don Diego de Quiraga y - Lasada, in whose charge that Government is now_: - -The Royal officers of that City have given me an account in different -letters of their having arrived at that Garrison ten remaining negroes, -eight males and two females, from St. George. That they asked for the -waters of baptism, it was given them, after which a Sergeant-Major from -St. George came to claim them. Not appearing to be the proper thing to -return them after becoming Christians, it was agreed upon with the -Sergeant-Major to buy them with the money from my Royal exchequer for -the sum of sixteen hundred dollars, granting a writing to that purpose, -to pay said sum at a stated time specified. To satisfy this I sent to -the new city of Vera Cruz for this sum of money which was brought and -deposited in my Royal coffers of that city, advising the Governor of St. -Augustine and notifying the Governor of St. George to send for it. It -seems they came for it at the time the Governor was distributing aid to -the soldiers. He had notified me of the receipt of this money, but not -receiving a reply, he supposed I was not satisfied with the transaction, -imploring I should tell him what to do with the negroes. The men had -been put to work on the Fort, and the women the Governor had retained as -servants in his household. He paid the cost of them, and he only awaited -my orders. In view of all that he asks, through the judge of my Council -of the Indias, it occurs to me to say to you that Don Diego Quiraga was -wanting in his duty by not sending to pay the money deposited in the -Royal coffers for the purchase of said negroes and in the word he had -given the English. He should have considered that in refusing to deliver -them to the English, it was done to protect the religion; this alone -would have sufficed, being as I am such a Catholic. For any excess -expended in their purchase, notwithstanding my failure in replying to -him on this point, and so, it appears strange what this Governor has -done. And so, that you perfectly understand what I order you, as I do -order you, that of the first money which comes into my Royal coffers of -that City you immediately pay up the whole amount, and give the Governor -of St. George perfect satisfaction for the 1,600 dollars agreed upon for -the sale. The defraying of this to be done as quickly as possible. And -as a reward for having come to these provinces to live under the laws of -the Gospel and become Catholics, I order that immediately upon receipt -of this, you give them all their liberty in my name, giving each one, -males and females, a document to that effect, so that seeing their -example others may do likewise. As soon as you have accomplished this -you are to send me a full account, as this is my will. - -I, the King, sent by the King our Lord, - -DON JUAN DE LA VEA, -_Chairman of the Council_. - - - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - -A. D. 1689-1698. - - _Letter of the Governor and Captain-General of Florida, Don Diego - Quiroba y Losada, to his Majesty--Giving an account of a custom - obtaining in the Garrison which he deems dangerous to its - safety--That is, the ringing of the church bells at midnight, when - the Host is taken out to administer communion to the dying until - the same is returned, oftentimes lasting hours, which same drowns - the fire of the sentinel across the river, who is to fire as many - times as there are vessels sighted--This danger has been fully laid - before the Priest, but to no purpose, notwithstanding the city has - been in arms for some days awaiting the enemy--There is also - testimony accompanying this letter of the same purport--His Majesty - by a Cedule of July 18th, 1694, asks for a statement of the order - pursued in the functions of the Edicts of Faith and Anathema and - the places where they conduct the Holy Tribunal of the - Inquisition--These questions answered by Severino Mausaneda, March - 17th, 1690--In 1691 Governor and Captain-General of Florida, Don - Diego Guiroga y Lorada, gives an account of a military review of - St. Augustine--Of the great advantage and security to the city of - building a sea wall extending from the Fort the entire length of - the town, thus securing it against the sea which in storms comes up - to the houses--The soldiers and citizens subscribe ten thousand - dollars and his Highness is implored to designate a sum to help to - build this wall that the people will be convinced of his Highness’ - interest--The King, A. D. 1698, to the Governor and - Captain-General, Don Diego Guiroga y Losada, of the City of St. - Augustine, in which he rebukes the said Governor for unjustly - taxing the Indians, whom he wishes civilized, and not treated alone - as vassals, but as his children, attending to their comfort and - want, and imposes a fine if the money sent to be spent for canvas - and provisions be not paid to these Indians as per - agreement--Extracts from the investigations of the Council, in - regard to alleged excesses committed by the Governor of Florida, - Don Francisco Moral Sanchez--Besides the scandalous reports - certified to, is his ill treatment of a Captain of Grenadiers - acting according to his own will instead of by military law--The - Royal Officers protest--Certify to the truth of these - investigations, and implore justice from the King--A report - according to his Excellency’s desire concerning affairs under - Governor Don Francisco Marales Sanchez--The investigation shows - that the facts set forth in the different papers and petitions sent - to his Majesty to have been only too true--Impossible to put upon - paper the strange, divers and extraordinary excesses committed by - this Governor._ - - -A. D. 1689. - -_Sire_: - -Today I must give you an account of a custom I have found here, which -might redound to the injury of this Garrison. It is that at any hour of -the night when the Host is taken out to administer communion to the -dying the church bells are rung and continue to ring until its return to -the church, with the same solemnity as is done in the day time. Now, -this might cause very serious results, as when we have the sentinel who -is on duty across the river, to fire as many times as there are vessels -in view, then the bells are rung and the people gather together. This -makes us very attentive in listening for the firing and the noise of the -bells at all hours prevents us from hearing and would give the enemy an -opportunity of entering and capturing the Town. I always keep the Fort -well guarded and am prepared, but as we know from so many occurrences in -the Indias in the past few years, all the misfortunes of invasions have -come from carelessness. I have solicited the Priest not to have this -done and even refused to let him have the soldiers to follow in the -procession, but he is very impertinent and says the church belongs to -him and he shall do as it pleases him. Since the 28th of May we have -been in arms awaiting the enemy, and I sent the Priest word not to ring -by one of the soldiers, then by the Sergeant-Major--in spite of my -message he rang the bells from half-past ten at night until half-past -two o’clock. To avoid danger from this, I have given orders that none of -the soldiers attend. If he desists from ringing I will allow him all the -soldiers necessary. Things will work thus until your Majesty orders -otherwise for the safety of this Garrison. God grant you long life. - -DIEGO QUIROBA. - -St. Augustine, Fla., August 16th, 1689. - - * * * * * - - -TESTIMONY WHICH ACCOMPANIES THIS LETTER. - -In the City of St. Augustine, Fla., May 28th, 1689. - -The Captain of Cuirassiers, Don Diego Quiroba y Losada, Governor and -Captain-General of this city and Province, by order of your Majesty. - -Says: That this Garrison being in arms and awaiting signals since -Sunday, the 22nd. The church has on several occasions rung the bells -after midnight in taking out the Holy Sacrament, continuing the ringing -for two hours or more, without ceasing. This is contrary to all customs -in Spain and the Indias, where the sacrament is not carried in pomp -after night, but only by the Priest, the sacristan and two other persons -who carry the lights. In a close Garrison it is more strictly observed, -and for that reason should be more strictly enforced in this Garrison, -as such things are risky, especially as we are under arms, and injury -might result, as it would give the enemy time and opportunity to -accomplish their intentions. We are trying to stand on the defensive and -it might injure this very church itself. For this reason I sent word to -the Priest, Don Alonzo de Legurion, Parish Priest and Vicar of this -city, in all due form by St. Sebastian Lopez begging him to cease the -ringing and setting forth the danger which could result. That he should -not go out in pomp, but ask for all the soldiers he wanted and they -would be sent. He would not listen, and threatened the Lieutenant with -excommunication should he return. Another message I sent by the -Sergeant-Major, Pedro Arauda y Avellanedas, to whom he made the same -reply, stating that the Church was his and he would ring when he -pleased--it had been given him by the Pontificate, and the Governor had -nothing to do with it, and must not meddle. Such language and conduct -disturbs the public peace. That all this may be certified to I have -ordered testimony taken of the case and had the Sergeant-Major and -Adjutant Sebastian Lopez examined, and so I sent it and sign - -DIEGO QUIROBA Y LOSADA. - -Appeared before me, Alonzo Solano, Notary Public of the government, in -the City of St. Augustine, Fla., as witness. - -SEBASTIAN LOPEZ. - - * * * * * - -May 22nd, 1689. - -Captain Diego Quiroba y Losada, Governor and Captain-General of said -city, ordered to appear before me, the Adjutant, Sebastian Lopez, who is -the actual Sergeant-Major in the Garrison, who was in my presence -received and sworn in by the Notary Public, in the name of God and the -Holy Cross, and having promised to tell nothing but the truth. Asked for -the tenor of the Auto at the head of this Document, he said: That at -about half-past two o’clock the bells of the church of this City were -ringing. Having started out, his Lordship, the Governor, called him and -ordered him to take a message to the Priest, telling him that he knew -well that the City was in arms, the enemy being on this coast, and they -had received signals that the vessels were in sight of the City, and to -cease ringing the bells as the noise would prevent them from hearing the -signal “to arms.” That coming to the church he told the Priest to stop -ringing, that it made too much noise. The Priest’s reply was to order -him to leave the church under pain of excommunication, the witness -returned three times with the Governor’s Message, but no attention was -paid to his Lordship’s Message, and the bells continued to ring. That -this is the truth, under sworn oath he states and affirms and that he is -twenty-two years old and he signs it. - -SEBASTIAN LOPEZ TOLEDO. - -Before me, Alonzo Solano, Notary Public and of the Government. It agrees -with the original of which mention has been made and which I send. -Executed in St. Augustine, Fla., on July 15th, 1689. - -ALONZO SOLANO, -Notary Public and of the Government. - - * * * * * - -By Cedule of your Majesty dated in Madrid, July 18th, 1674, you ask for -a statement of the order pursued in the functions of the Edicts of Faith -and Anathena and the places where they conduct the Holy Tribunal of the -Inquisition. And also the cause of the controversies offered by the city -whenever they are performed and what has been done this year. The city -to avoid all scandal resolved to allow the Commissioner of the -Inquisition to conduct things his own way--taking testimony of all the -proceedings to report to your Majesty. These acts have no fixed time, -but left to the arbitration of the Commissioner who has them when he -pleases, every two, three, and even six years. After discussion it was -decided not to have them executed this year, as it is not a regular -custom, and we wished to report before giving more examples of -dissensions. For twenty years the City has allowed itself to be fined -for neglect of duty in assisting at the performances. As there is no -Tribunal of Inquisition here the Commissioner succeeded in getting the -City to go to his house for him, and he, precedes the City. In church, -his place to be on the Gospel side, with the humility recognized in such -places. The decision of this controversy seems to depend on Law 20, -Chapter 26, of the ninth recompilation of the Indias. This last, the -Holy Tribunal of the Inquisition pretends is only understood by your -Majesty, the Viceroys and Captain-Generals in whom are found a living -representation. So that to represent the Holy Tribunal of the -Inquisition the power is solely invested in your Commissioner--from this -comes the act of tramping under foot your Government, whom the -Commissioner tries to subdue in all, to his will, as well as the Notary -Public and Ministers. That a stop may be put to his audaciousness it has -seemed wise and prudent to make a report with testimonies attached to -your Majesty, that you may act as you deem proper in the case. - -May God grant you long life. - -SEVERINO MAUSANEDA. - -Havana, March 17th, 1690. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1691. - -_Your Highness_: - -Don Diego Quiroga y Lorada, Governor and Captain-General of the Province -of Florida, in a letter dated January 8th, 1690, gives you an account of -the general review which he passed on the soldiers of infantry and -militia of that Garrison. He proposed the advantages and security -occurring to the City by building a wall from the Fort, the whole length -of the City along the sea, seeing the danger in which it now is of being -ruined by floods from the sea (which already comes up to the houses) -when we have the slightest storm. The soldiers seeing the necessity of -it, immediately offered what they could, the citizens of the Province -doing likewise, that the work might advance. I send a certificate -showing that the amount of the offering they have made is ten thousand -dollars, and that they will use every effort to build the wall, and they -have commenced to get out the stone and other necessary things. I -implore your Highness to designate a sum to help build this wall, which -is so important and that these poor soldiers and citizens may feel -encouraged to give more, seeing that your Majesty helps them in such -needed work, since nothing less depends upon this wall than the -preventing a flood of the place and separating the Castle, losing all -that has been spent in the building of it. The Board is obliged to -represent you. What the voluntary contributions of the soldiers and -citizens of the Province is for the building of this wall, estimate the -cost of it, and how much will be needed to continue the work, and with -this and what you order, the Count of Galva, Viceroy of the New Spain, -must send to Florida the sum of two thousand dollars, that the Governor -may apply it to this work, and that he inform the Board of the size, -latitude and thickness, the design of it, that they may better -understand it. And that the Royal Officers certify that said portion of -the two thousand dollars was spent on this work, sending an exact -account and cause. Then, the soldiers and citizens of Florida seeing -that your Majesty takes an interest in them and helps them, will feel -encouraged to continue subscribing. You will decide as most convenient. - -Madrid, August 11th, 1691. - - -THE KING. - - _To the Field Marshal Don Diego Quiroga y Losada--My Governor and - Captain-General of the City of St. Augustine, in the Province of - Florida, or to the Person or Persons in Whose Care His Government - May Be_: - -In a letter of June the 8th, 1640, it refers, among other things, that -you have sought the means of spending the money assigned for the -purchasing of canvas and provisions for the Indians of the Pass of the -River Salamototo, as was evident by the certificate and agreement that -together with the Royal Officers of that city you made. Seeing all in my -Council of War of the Indians--how special attention was called to the -new tax imposed for the canoes that serve as transports at the referred -river, I have resolved to order and command you (as I do) that the -moment you receive this order, that you revoke the one by which you have -distinguished yourself together with the Royal Officers, as the -agreement of the 1st of February, of 1698, being worthy of reproof, the -one that you and they are working in this matter, without any orders -whatsoever from me--as should always be the case in questions of this -nature especially when my royal soul is so moved towards the Indians, my -desire so great, that they should be civilized and treated not alone as -my vassals, but as my own children subjugating them and attending to -their wants and comfort. Thus you will proceed to revoke what you have -done. Advise my Royal Officers by dispatch of the date that they take -note of this resolution in the books under their charge--so that at all -times it shall be evident. And I also command that you immediately have -published and posted proclamations to this effect in all public places -in the city and Province inserting to the letter in the proclamation the -contents of this dispatch, and sending to the board by the first -opportunity presenting itself, testimony of having executed this -procedure. A fine of a thousand reals imposed upon you, to be remitted -if you do not execute this order immediately in the form that I have -imposed and commanded. And that the canoes remain and be paid as they -have been up to the present, and as they were up to the date when you -imposed the above expressed tax. And you shall advise me clearly and -plainly what has been the amount of these taxes up to the date of -receipt of this dispatch, and if there be any portion of it, you have it -placed at once in my Royal Chest in that city, to remain there until -receiving my further orders. So does it suit me and my Royal service. - - * * * * * - - -THE COUNCIL. - -Continuing the account of investigations which have been obtained and -were promised in a letter of October 22nd to ascertain with certainty of -the excesses committed by the Governor of Florida, Don Francisco Moral -Sanchez. - -The Council makes known that the events are so strange and -extraordinary, which by divers means have been understood to have taken -place in that Garrison and its administration, that the very excess -itself stuns one with astonishment and paralyzes the credulity of our -mind--but, having complied with his duty as commanded, he explains: That -he is quite assured of the truth of the report of the Engineer Don -Antonio Arredondo, who was an eye-witness and had no reason whatever to -judge him otherwise than impartially, being in no conceivable manner -dependent. That his report agrees in every particular with the other -letters written of the excesses of the above mentioned Governor as will -be recognized by the document which accompanies this and is certified to -by the Engineer Arredondo at the continuation of them in a private -declaration made by the decree expedited for this purpose. - -That the few Indians of our faith represent and express their true -sentiments, as indicated by a document I remit to this Council, through -the Rev. Bishop of Micale, which they obliged Señor Arredondo to receive -and remit to your Majesty. That other certificates of military and -private individuals of that Garrison, with other documents which -accompany this, and not only confirm, but add such scandalous excesses -of the private life of that Governor, that it is impossible to find -decent and decorous words with which to express them. And some of these -words are from the mouth of religious Monks and Priests who affirm all -these letters as well as the one written by Don Antonio Benavides--there -are also later letters giving accounts of the same proceedings. - -Besides the scandalous reports being certified to by all, in about the -same manner, they accuse the Governor of his treatment of the Captain of -Grenadiers Don Felipe de Iturrieta, commandant of the detached troops, -forgetting his personal merits, and official position, and his being a -person of implicit integrity. He had him thrust into prison in a most -shameful and scandalous manner--even depriving him of the resources of -writing--and after trampling him in every way he incriminates him for -disobedience in the performance of his duties--a mere pretense, for it -was that this Officer refused to neglect his duty or allow his men to do -so, by being off guard at the Barracks, where it is imperative, -according to all military laws that guards should be at their post. The -Governor wishing the men for his private purposes ignored or formed -false conception of military duties and suspended and imprisoned the -Captain. Of the same nature is the charge made against him of violating -the Royal ordinance and defying it--when he replied to the Governor in -words which would rather indicate respect. It is a shameful act to treat -an Officer of honor of his well known character, who has the heavy -responsibilities which are recognized as belonging to said Captain, and -are certified to in the statements of the circumstances, as also a -petition in which is set forth all that has occurred, and imploring that -justice be shown Captain Iturrieta that he may not be stigmatized. While -all written in these reports and certificates are true, I did not depose -him immediately from office until I received the report asked of the -Bishop of Micale, knowing his prudence and virtue and that his word -would be more approved than all else in the case. In the meantime while -awaiting his report I am taking every step to conquer the difficulties -which may arise to name a subject who can act in the interim, because it -seems the need is so great that it is impossible to form any resolution -whatever in the case pending in that Province, and this consideration -has suspended all movement of removing him until the order comes for -doing so. This in our judgment being more prudent, as the referred to -Governor is so engrossed in his private affairs as certified to in the -papers of Don A. Arredondo, in which he speaks of the Barracks for -lodging the soldiers, and the looking into this matter belongs to the -Viceroy of New Spain--that in proper time he take the precautions which -he deems most essential. - -Concluding with the disposal of the reports, and taking the less -scandalous means to depose the Governor of Florida, Don Francisco Moral -Sanchez, as he has not been forewarned of what is to happen, it seems -doubtful which is the best means to adopt, we will therefore consider -the matter with more deliberation proceeding in the safest and most -certain way and rendering a personal account as quickly as possible -thereafter. - -THE COUNCIL. - - * * * * * - -_Excellent Lord_: - -In conformity with what your Excellency desires, and satisfying the -private order sent me, asking a report and true statement of affairs -under the Governor Don Francisco Morales Sanchez. To assure myself from -a responsibility devoid of all partiality, and to the truth of the -excesses perpetrated by this Governor and a few other private -individuals and priests, of which that Garrison wrote you a complaint, -asking that you immediatly depose the Governor and name some one in his -place, _pro tem._, so that your Majesty being informed, may place some -one who looks more to your interests. For this purpose you sent me a -blank dispatch, that in time, I might fill out with the names of the -subject elected and the investigation I had made in this affair. I must -say, that they are so strange and extraordinary, and such divers means -used in their performance--that the accounts I hear in this garrison -chill the soul and congeal the blood in one’s veins. There is no way of -hiding the misery and misfortune to which this Garrison is exposed. With -the same truthfulness I must expose the fact, that I am positively -certain from the reports of the Engineer Don Antonio Arredondo, as an -eye-witness, that all the excesses committed by this Governor are -strictly true as written you and certified to in a report from this -Garrison. - -The few Indians of our faith represent and express their lamentable -sentiments on a paper written you, and sent through the Rev. Bishop of -Micale. Other certificates of priests, military men, and private -individuals of that Garrison, which I enclose add such scandalous -excesses in the manner of living of that Governor that I cannot find -decent words in which to express it. Some of these are signed by the -same priests who wrote to Don Antonio Benavides, and there are others, -citing what the Governor has perpetrated on the Captain of Grenadiers, -Don Felipe Iturricta, whom I sent there. Forgetting his merits and that -he was a person of implicit confidence, whom I trusted for his -unimpeachable conduct, they have placed him in prison under scandalous -circumstances, intending to take from him the management of the troops -over whom I placed him. He has been under the most rigorous guard, -searching even his food, depriving him of the privilege of writing to -ask for a hearing, accusing him of crimes and lack of obedience. They -have no other course, in my opinion, than a pretext, as this Officer has -fulfilled his duty with promptness and rectitude, showing only the -ordinary precautions observed in the regiments for infinite reasons. The -guards cannot be excused from the Barracks where the troop is -stationed--which is one of the principal rudiments of military -tactics--as well for safety as anything which might occur. The Captain -insisted on maintaining these principles from which has arisen this -trouble, and the assigning of the wrong conception of duty and want of -obedience preferred against him. Of the same nature is the other charge: -that he had defied the Governor. To this Captain Iturricta replied: if -you were not the Governor you could not use such language to me--showing -that he respected the office of Governor. The Governor does not seem to -recognize the respect due to a man and Officer of standing and -distinguished character, and let me add incidentally, placed here by me, -as commandante of a detached body, to encourage and hold this fagged out -Garrison. They should consider it an honor, for so distinguished a -personage to accept this place, and so honorably discharge his duty. -Your Majesty will understand all from the report of said Captain and the -testimonials stating the circumstances. I also enclose a petition from -the Captain in which he implores you to do him justice, a virtue so in -keeping with your Royal heart, and not allow an officer of his standing -to remain in disgrace. I can positively assure you, that had not the -Captain and other Officers been true and faithful to their duty, they -could have caused much trouble among the inhabitants of this Garrison, -from this unjust act. Although I have reported all the abuses said to -have been committed by the present Governor of Florida, and you should -place some one of experience and good conduct in his place. I hope that -your Majesty with your great experience, will pardon me for troubling -you on the present occasion, and look unprejudiced into this affair. All -that has been said of the matter, and all that I have been commanded in -so important a trust--I am trying to investigate to the very root. Going -cautiously, feeling my way, trying to right troubles without any -scandal, so that I may send you the name of some worthy subject who can -act _pro tem._ in that capacity--as, from all the information I have -expounded it seems urgent you should remove this man, so as to restore -the confidence your vassals have in your Majesty, and the responsibility -I represent. The engineer, Don Antonio Arredondo, assures me no other -expedient can be taken, while the present Governor is so engrossed in -his own private interests, as you may infer from the last chapter. - -Regarding the Barracks for lodging the hundred men, it is an evident -fact, that but for the persistent effort of the Engineer Arredondo, they -would have been returned to that Kingdom. All of which he reported to -the Viceroy of Mexico that he might take the necessary precautions. -Having disposed of the duty of having the Governor removed, I am -doubtful of what will be best to do next toward your Majesty’s -interests, but I shall act as in my judgment seems best and as -circumstances present themselves. - -May God preserve you. - -JUAN FRANCISCO HORCASITAS. - - - - -CHAPTER XV. - -A. D. 1708-1723. - - _Letter from Francisco Carcoles y Martinez to his Majesty reports - all possible measures taken to prevent the enemy from destroying - this Province--The Indians, aided by the English who supply them - with guns, ammunition, knives and pistols, come from the Indian - villages bordering the Carolinas and carry off each day certain - persons--Families and Christians taken off to be sold into - slavery--More than ten thousand up to the present have - disappeared--A treaty urged with the English of the Carolinas, else - there will be a continuation of war and the spread of the Holy - Gospel impeded--In a second letter the Governor gives an account of - certain Friars who are getting up a dispute and lawsuit with the - Priest of the Parish concerning the right and whose right to marry - soldiers, Spaniards, Indians or mixed Indians--These disputes - brought before the Governor to settle, who in turn refers them to - his Majesty--Recommends the abolishing of all Heathen customs--By a - Royal dispatch, A. D. 1721, the Governor of Florida is commanded to - go in person to the Governor of the Carolinas and arrange with him - the observance of the Treaty of Peace between the English and - Spanish of those Provinces adjoining, which same was carried out as - far as possible--A letter from the Governor, Antonio Benavides, - reports the sending of clothing and trinkets to pacify the Casiques - and Chiefs of the Province of Apalachicola--Find the Indians - restless and making preparations for war--English spreading - dissatisfaction--A Council of War decides to send a vessel to - Havana for arms, men and provisions in anticipation of troubulous - times._ - - -THE GOVERNOR’S LETTER. - -A. D. 1708. - -_Your Lordship_: - -My principal care since assuming control as Governor has been to procure -by all possible means to prevent the enemy from destroying at once this -Province, and the few natives of it who have remained. When I took -possession I called a meeting of the Board to discuss matters and we -decided to retire the troops from the town of Santa Fe, adding those of -San Francisco and the infantry that was at the pass of Salamototo river, -as I have already informed you on the 20th of November, 1706, so that -with a larger force we might resist the enemy, and the citizens of this -City feel some relief. I had built on the line a thick palisade, as I -informed you. I have also organized a company of cavalry who should go -about on the skirts, as they have done, to gather up stores and guard -the carpenters and persons who go out to work cutting timber for the -Royal buildings. This has not sufficed to stop the enemy from continuing -their scalping and hostilities which are being constantly felt. They -come from the Indian villages bordering on the Carolinas, aided by the -English, who supply them with guns, ammunition, knives and pistols; at -times they even accompany them, which strengthens and encourages them -so that all the terra firma along the southern coast is desolate. And -each day the number of families these Indians carry off is increased. -The Christians have all disappeared, no doubt they have taken and sold -them into slavery--more than ten or twelve thousand persons have gone. I -have about three hundred with men, women and children. Even these are -being carried away daily, when they go out to gather (guano) palmetto -with which the Indians clothe themselves--and wild roots which they use -for eating, not having sufficient with the Royal Rations which we daily -allow them. Today they bring me an account of how they carried off ---- to -Mica, who had gone out in search of roots--in all they have carried -today twenty-eight persons, four of whom escaped and have brought the -news. The fact of there being some capitulation of peace would be much -added to the service of God and your Majesty by relieving us of these -miserable Indians. All the natives from this Province are sold, -imprisoned or detained in the Carolinas. If a treaty could be made with -England to prevent the English in Carolina from supplying them with -arms, ammunition, etc., for it is with this they make war against us, -and the dexterity with which they use them is amazing--as though they -had been brought up to their use. Unless such a treaty can be -immediately reached, hostilities will continue, and in this America -there will never be anything but war. And the English will always have -the Indians on their side, as they protect them and furnish them with -arms and ammunition, as they have done heretofore. Unless this treaty -can be effected immediately, the best thing for us to do will be to -abandon the place entirely, as you have sug-gested, before they -desolate it. But as it is so important to the Crown and the vast -importance and revenue which will and can be derived from it would make -it deplorable to give it up now. Besides the great importance of -spreading the Holy Gospel, as it is being done, has made me delay in -giving you this necessary information. - -May God guard you for many years as a true Christian. - -FRANCISCO CÓRCOLES Y MARTINEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., January 14th, 1708. - - -LETTER OF THE GOVERNOR OF FLORIDA TO HIS MAJESTY. - -A. D. 1708. - -_Sire_: - -The continued coming of the enemy who took up quarters at San Francisco -Garrison, caused the natives to retire to this Garrison to seek -protection under the Royal arms. From the same fear, the palisade castle -of Salamototo having been attacked, the few natives withdrew, running -from the cruel ravages of these enemies. About eight or nine persons -having called a meeting to discuss the matter of evacuating these -Garrisons, the board decided that for the safety and better security of -these natives it would be best to evacuate them. A more extensive -account is given you in the testimony of each thing that I remit with -this information, so that you may be well notified of the reasons for -retiring from these two towns and others near them, that had already -been deserted. We have assigned them land near by, in line of the cannon -of this Royal Fort, and we are maintaining them and helping with the -best we can at your expense and from the Royal warehouses so that they -may not perish until they can till the land and raise a crop to help -support themselves, until things take a better turn. I hope your Majesty -will approve and accept in good faith the step taken by the Board and -that I am working and maintaining these natives for the best and -greatest service of your Majesty. May God guard you as a Christian. - -FRANCISCO CÓRCOLES Y MARTINEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., November 30th, 1708. - - -LETTER OF THE GOVERNOR OF FLORIDA TO HIS MAJESTY. - -A. D. 1709. - -_Sire_: - -I write to give you an account of the Friars of San Francisco. Fray -Francisco, Teacher of the Gospel at Santa Maria de Guale, and the -guardian of this Convent, Fray Martin de Molina, have been trying to get -up lawsuits and have had disputes with the Pastor of this Parish, Don -Pedro Lorenzo Acevido. These Friars are opposed to having the Pastor -marry the soldiers or any Spaniard to the Indians or mixed Indians, -wishing themselves to administer this and the other sacraments to them -and their children. For this they have drawn up Autos and presented them -to me that I might grant them justice. I referred them each to your -Majesty, suggesting that they draw up their testimony and I am to -reserve the right of informing you on the subject. I therefore call to -your Royal attention how these law suits, occurring daily, only tend to -disturb the peace. This is all done, because these Friars, to obtain the -fee, wish now to administer these sacraments, which have been -administered for the last thirty years by the parish priest of this -parish, who has performed the marriage ceremony and had them watch -(velar) from the fathers down to the grandchildren, without once -interfering with the rights of these Friars to administer to their own -people, the Indians in the towns they have charge of, and whose language -they understand, and as is customary, if a soldier or any one wishes to -marry an Indian or mixed Indian they must do so in the Parish and church -to which the Indian belongs--thus, by degrees, leaving off all Heathen -customs. Your Majesty after seeing the Autos and receiving this -information will decide as he thinks best and most desirable for the -good of all. May God preserve your Royal person that you may show -justice. - -FRANCISCO CÓRCOLES Y MARTINEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., September 12th, 1709. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1722. - -_Sire_: - -By your Royal dispatch of May 25th of last year, 1721, you commanded me -that taking advantage of the suspension of arms and the friendly -relations I had observed with the English of the Carolinas since then; -that your request at the Court of London had been granted. That under -all these circumstances I should go in my official capacity to the -Governor of Carolina and arrange with him to observe strictly the -Treaty, that the vexation among the Indians who were allied to the two -nations should cease. I immediately complied with your order and sent -the Contador, Don Francisco Menendez, accompanied by other officials, -from this Garrison, with the commission of having a firm agreement with -the Governor of Carolina to make the Indians attached to his nation and -to cease aggravating those with us, and thus live in peace and -tranquility, pursuing agriculture. This peace being as important to one -nation as the other, for, should war be declared, there would be no end -to it. To this proposition and others as certified in the accompanying -letter which I take this occasion of sending you, the Governor and -Parliament of the Carolinas replied that they had received no such -orders from the King of Great Britain, but that notwithstanding he would -try to enforce peace during the suspension of arms. Immediately upon the -arrival of Don F. Menendez in the Carolinas he was notified that the -English had constructed a wooden fort on the tongue at the mouth of -Talauje Province on your Majesty’s territory, where, for many years the -Indians and Guajas were settled and by reason of the siege this nation -put on this Garrison, they had retired to where they still are. Don -Francisco Menendez hearing this, considered it wrong for them to -trespass upon your Territory, and so stated it to the Governor, and also -that he feared harm would result from it. The reply given was: that the -King of Great Britain had ordered them to strengthen his dominions with -fortifications in any form they deemed expedient. Under different -pretexts the “Contador” tried to have them show the order, but they -refused to do so, saying it was sufficient that they said they had the -order, and the Governor of Florida had nothing at all to do with it. -From which I infer, your Lordship, that with the arrival of this new -Governor in these colonies, not only will he complete the building of -this Fort and settlement, but that he will also settle all the islands -belonging to this jurisdiction, thus making the Carolinas impregnable -and reducing this Garrison to a more lamentable state than it is in -today on account of its easy access to the Indians who would immediately -come to possess themselves of the ammunition and arms which it is the -very heighth of their ambition to obtain. So Menendez learned that -provision had been made by the English Government to equip this Colony, -and they were awaiting, at any moment, vessels with supplies and arms. -Then, at a moment’s notice, they will invade this Castle, it being their -great ambition, and the only and sole aim of it, to capture this Fort -for the protection of the New England, and the great use they could make -of it in capturing your Majesty’s vessels coming through the Bahama -Channel. In giving you this information I feel that I not only comply -with my royal duty, but also discharge the debt to my conscience in -showing you the danger of this Province. With this intelligence you can -act as most agreeable and convenient. May God preserve your Royal -personage for many years. - -ANTONIO BENAVIDES. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Apr. 21st, 1722. - - * * * * * - -The letter accompanying it: - -St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 11th, 1722. - -Finding myself with an order from the King of Spain, my Lord and Master, -for security with this and that government of reciprocal relations -regarding the hostilities which on one and the other side has been -completed, for the welfare of the Indians, I resolved to send to the -Carolinas the “Contador” Don Francisco Menendez Marques, with other -officials accompanying him, to confer with his Excellency and the Lords -of Parliament for some agreement by which the annoyances of the infidel -Indians toward those attached to our nation, might cease, and they be -allowed to continue their agricultural pursuits without further -disturbances and incentives--and not forgetting the agreement with Don -Francisco Menendez Marques that during the suspension of arms, they try -not to hostile the Indians of this Nation. That I, for my government, -will keep them in subjection as I have done ever since the news of -suspension of arms arrived, but that, if they should in any way fail in -their agreement, they might rest assured that I shall take vengeance, -and nothing shall deter me but their absolute subjection to our -agreement. I shall make all necessary provision and watch with zeal, as -I am fully persuaded that the keeping of this reciprocal agreement is -the only foundation for tranquility and peace. Your Excellency will -acknowledge receipt of this, and the agreement reached with Señor -Menendez Marquez, that I may report to our King and Master. - -ANTONIO BENAVIDES. - - -TO THE KING FROM THE GOVERNOR OF FLORIDA. - -_Sire_: - -I place in your Royal hands the testimony of the letter written me by -the Commandant whom I have in charge of the Garrison and Fort of San -Marco, forwarded to him by Lieutenant Don Diego Pena who, by order, was -sent to visit the Province of Apalachicola, with clothing and trinkets -to gratify the Casiques and Chiefs. Both inform me that the Province of -the Talepuses and others partial to the English of the Carolinas, are -restless and trying to destroy the nation of Arinaco who yield obedience -to this government. That they are making all preparations for war, which -from the evil designs we may soon expect. The number of the discontented -is far in the ascendency of those who seem to be on our side, but in -whom we can place no confidence, they being so deceitful. Then again, -the fear they may entertain seeing that the English are mustering the -Indians of so many nations and spreading dissatisfaction among them, -against the Spaniards. The news given us by the Lieutenant that some of -those we should and ought to trust have him detained in Colache from -where he wrote this letter which, with the one from the commandant, I -attach to these “Autos.” Of the steps taken by the Council of War, whom -I called together to discuss this matter, I will not send you testimony -nor in any way trouble you. I shall only make known to your Royal -intelligence that the Council of War decided to send a vessel to Havana -with letters to the Governor of that place, that he might aid us in -sending provisions, arms and men--the latter to land at some point -further down and, taking horses, make their way in by land. The enemy -may already have the place blockaded. Should you decide that this plan -ought not to be carried out I am willing to sacrifice my life to have -the disturbances among these Nations cease, and that all under control -of this Government should live in peace, without any of the prejudices -of those who disturb them. Besides, as is written in the Holy Gospel, -“we will ravish the enemy, punish and destroy them.” But, my Lord, the -condition of this garrison is such that it will be impossible for us to -hold out for any length of time. The rapidity with which they are -gathering and preparing indicates we are to have serious and trying -times. Ever since 1702 our forces have been falling off, and we are -weak. In giving you this information I am stating truths and fulfill my -duty. Act as in your judgment with the aid of God is best. - -ANTONIO BENAVIDES. - -St. Augustine, Fla., August 18th, 1723. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - -A. D. 1736-1739. - - _In a letter to his Majesty Governor Señor Montiano says it is - reported that Don Diego Oglethorpe has said openly “that should he - receive orders from his Government to fix the boundary limits - between the Spanish possessions and the Carolinas he would so delay - the execution that there should never be a sign of these - limits”--Montiano thinks it would be wise for such a gentleman to - be removed as it can never be possible to discuss questions of - importance with him--In A. D. 1738 the same Governor reports the - result of a trip of investigation by one Juan Ygnacio de los Reyes, - an Indian--Under the pretext of giving himself up from having - killed an Indian, he gains much information concerning the English, - their plans against the Spanish, misleading the English as to the - strength, numbers and condition of Spanish fortifications, finally - escaping under pretext of hunting--Returns with valuable - information to the Spanish--Statement of what has been ordered - regarding the aid to Florida Provinces, the dislodging of the enemy - from certain settlements on its territory, since its government up - to 1674--Dispatch of 1675 commands that if the negro slaves sent to - Havana have not already been sold, they shall be sent to Florida, - to be put to work on the construction of the Castle to relieve the - Indians._ - - -LETTER FOR HIS MAJESTY FROM THE GOVERNOR OF FLORIDA, SEÑOR MONTIANO. - -_My Lord_: - -In a letter of the 28th of March of this year, you were kind enough to -acknowledge receipt of my letter of August 14th of last year, in which I -reported that Don Diego Oglethorpe, Commander of the English colonies, -had said openly that although he should receive orders from his King and -Court to fix the boundary limits between this government’s possessions -and those of the Carolinas, he would delay the execution of it, so that -there should never be a sign of these limits, and they must bear this -always in mind, for whatever might present itself. With this -intelligence it would be well to relieve these Colonies of such a man, -because on questions of importance upon any occurrence which should need -discussion, it would be exceedingly troublesome to manage a gentleman -who even refuses to answer my former letters. This is all I can say on -the subject--placing it before your Sovereign Majesty to whom God grant -many years. - -MANUEL MONTIANO. - -St. Augustine, Fla., August 11th, 1736. - - * * * * * - -A. D. 1738. - -Information given by the Indian, Juan Ygnacio de los Reyes, of the -Iquaha Nation, one of the neighbors of the town of Pocotalaca in the -immediate vicinity of this Garrison. He says: That he left under my -orders on the 4th of July of this year to go to the neighboring English -colony, and ascertain by as many ways and artifices as he could, their -intentions, the state or condition they are in, and everything. He took -a small canoe at the Fort of Picolata and went down that river and -sailed through the mouth of the Sarabai, going as far as the Fort of San -Pedro, which belongs to the English, meditating upon what scheme he -should take to gain all this information, and not go about hiding and -endangering his life needlessly. He thought of delivering himself up, as -he did, pretending that he had killed an Indian here, and was fleeing -not to be hung; that he was seeking protection from them. On learning -this he was favorably received, and could see a Fort which was square -and stockaded with two pieces and a cannon looking seaward; in it was a -detachment of twenty soldiers more or less, there is no neighborhood, -and saw but four houses before coming to the Fort or Stockade; a few -laborers planting corn; that the soldiers who are there are from a small -vessel or Piroque of war, intended to seek the mouths of rivers; that -from this Fort of San Pedro he was taken by two soldiers to the Bar of -Ballenas, that is where the first place called San Andres is, there he -saw a number of soldiers drilling with spears, and although he did not -then know their exact number, he afterwards learned in St. Simons from -Lieutenant-Colonel Cochran that there were three hundred; that he there -saw a number of houses, newly built and close together as in Havana, a -number of English women, wives of the soldiers, but he could not tell -the number of houses in the place; that there is also a square Fort, -with four cannon, towards the sea, and on the other side he could not -see; that there were small guard houses around it. He could not see if -they had artillery, because they would not allow him too near; that from -here to the sea inland by the Bay there is a thick palisade of earth -with a parapet and at the extreme end there is a wharf and they told him -that there they had flints for the Spaniards, and they keep a launch -ready and armed so that at any moment of the day or night she can be -used. She is manned with sixteen men. They carried him to St. Simons to -the presence of Colonel Cochran. Immediately upon his arrival there, -they sent six soldiers with bayonets to escort him to the Colonel’s -house. He was asked where he was going, he replied to seek protection -and favor from them; he had killed an Indian in St. Augustine. Colonel -Cochran extended his hand to him, but when he went to take it he only -gave him one finger. He was asked about the Armada which was to -encounter them; how many vessels and men it brought. He told them he had -not seen it, but had heard there were a hundred vessels with more than -4,000 men, and that the Governor of St. Augustine had told them to -return, that he did not wish to hurt the English. He was asked how many -troops were in this Garrison--he replied that there used to be four -companies of one hundred soldiers on horse, but that recently five more -companies of one hundred men each had arrived. They then asked if there -was much silver in Florida. He replied: Yes, as there were so many -soldiers, money flowed freely. Then Colonel Cochran told him all that -would soon belong to the King of Great Britain. He was then asked about -the Castle and Garrison. He told them the Castle had one hundred and -sixty cannons so large he could not reach around them; the Garrison had -twelve bulwarks with ten cannon each. To which Colonel Cochran told him: -Well, see here; when you hear that General Oglethorpe, whom I am -expecting with seven thousand men, has arrived, then you will see me -place a vessel of war at the mouth of the Bar, and prevent any food from -entering Florida. On the keys I shall place others and no one shall -enter Havana, expressing himself in such a way as to say that the King -of England would gain more by taking Florida than Gibraltar; that while -that was advantageous, this would yield them a great deal more. This -conversation was continued, asking if the Castle could be reached if -there was water inside, to all of which he told them it was impossible. -Speaking of the Governor, he asked for a grape arbor he had in his -house, said to yield great quantities of grapes. He told them the -Governor was a saintly man, and that while he knew him to be so good, he -could not help but flee from the punishment he knew he deserved for -killing the Indian, because the Governor was also a just man. That it -was true he had a grape arbor producing large quantities of grapes. -Colonel Cochran then said: Very well, within one or two years we will -make our wine and whiskey there. He says that day and night he never -tired asking about Florida; that now they were fortifying to afterwards -come and take it; that in St. Simons he had three hundred troops, as -many more in San Andres and Sabanato. He had brought these to take -Florida, but hearing of the Spanish Armada, they had desisted and sent -for seven thousand more men, whom Oglethorpe would bring, and upon the -arrival of this Commander in less than two months they would gather -506,000 Indians; that he would make his entrance by the river St. Johns -in schooners and small vessels and disembark at a place some seven -leagues distant from Florida, where they had two small ports. These Juan -Ygnacio saw with his own eyes, where they have the men they were -drilling at San Andres. That in St. Simons he saw ten squares with ten -houses and seventy houses in six squares, the other four squares were -not completed. That in each of the houses they lodged six soldiers. That -he also saw a Fort with fifteen cannon, and as it was in a bad -condition, they were making brick to rebuild it. That going out to hunt, -he came near the house of “Frederico” distant from St. Simons three -leagues more or less. The English would not allow him to enter there, -but turned him back to St. Simons. That about one league from this place -he saw a vessel called the Mamal, and there he saw them building six -large houses in which they had fifty men, that they had large timber -works. This he knows positively, having been there twice. That Cochran -and another Englishman whom he thinks they call William Houston, he -overheard say that they had offered the Indians fifty dollars for every -Spanish scalp they killed, black or white, or Christian Indian, any one -partial to Spain. That his escape to return was accomplished in the -following manner: That one Thursday at ten o’clock in the morning he -told Cochran that he was going hunting, if he found no game he would -remain over night and fish, returning the next day; he allowed him to -go; taking advantage of the occasion he took his canoe and sailed along -the rivers until Friday morning, when he got on terra firma, leaving -his canoe he walked two days in the direction of the sunset, then -crossed over the land and at the end of ten days he was on the St. Johns -river where he found the launch from this Garrison, which is there on -guard. Having called and taken his shirt for a flag, they went and -brought him over. The same day he started for this place where he -arrived at twelve o’clock at night and gave the information as I send -it. - -MANUEL MONTIANO. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Aug. 20th, 1738. - - * * * * * - -By a Cedula of June 20th, 1671, the Viceroy of New Spain has been -ordered to communicate with the Governor of Florida, hoping that through -his zeal much can be accomplished in the cause of the English, -preventing them from getting a strong foothold so near the mouth of the -river St. Elena, which would be prejudicial to our interests. Therefore -the Viceroy is requested to give all the aid required. As to the -proposed fortification to this Port for its defense, do what is -necessary to defend the Province and communicate also with the Viceroy -whom I have commanded to try and give all the assistance possible, -always bearing in mind not to violate the laws of the capitulation of -peace. The Governor of Havana being nearest to Florida was also -commanded to communicate with the Governor of Florida and render all the -aid and assistance possible in the dislodging of the English from the -river St. Elena, who if remaining in said place would cause much -trouble. The Governor of Florida must also keep him informed of the -state of affairs. In a letter dated April, 1671, the Viceroy Marquez de -Mancera gives an account of the aid sent to the Garrison of St. -Augustine in accordance with Cedula received. The papers showing that -this aid had been received and approved by the Council of War, -accompanying this letter, which also states the order given the Governor -of New Spain to be very careful in keeping a continual correspondence -with the Governor of Florida, send supplies promptly, and notify the -Viceroy of all that occurs. Act in every way for the best security of -that Garrison, using the greatest diligence in its fortification and -defense, being as I understand of such importance. State what steps have -been taken in regard to the fortification that was to be built, and to -which reference is made in this dispatch to the Governor Manuel Cendovia -and if the supplies of the soldiers and provisions to begin the work -have arrived. - -By Cedula of May 9th it was again commanded the Viceroy, calling his -special attention to it, that he must aid and supply this Garrison that -it may be in readiness for any emergency which may arrive. By another -Cedula the Governor of Florida was to inform the inhabitants of that -Fort, find out if they had their full quota for its defense, or if they -found it necessary to increase the number on account of the new -settlement of English sixty miles north. How long they had been there, -and if they were sufficiently provided to dislodge the English, which -information must be given so as to provide all and anything that is -necessary. The Governor represented that in the past, the number of -infantry in the Garrison was three hundred in which were included men of -different trades, forty missionary priests without whom the number was -not complete, adding that the total number was three hundred. When the -news of the looting by the English arrived they immediately sent to the -Viceroy of New Spain to send five hundred men to increase the infantry, -appealing to Mexico for more men to complete the number, they replied -that they had sent assistance to other Garrisons where they were -watching and had to have supplies and artillery, so that the War -Department had provided all it could. But to send to Havana and have the -Governor of that Post to act as he had been commanded and send with the -utmost speed the necessary defense for that Garrison. That the Viceroy -had been notified to order the Royal officers of Mexico to increase the -supplies of Florida each year by forty-three recruits, so that there -should never be less than three hundred and ninety in quarters. A Notice -of which was sent the Governor of Florida that he might keep them -informed of its fulfilment. To pay special care and vigilance to the -Province, having it well defended against accident from the enemy -entering, they could instantly banish and punish them. The Governor of -Florida also made known the great want of artillery, having consulted -with the War Department that same date, the War Department ordered the -Viceroy of New Spain and Governor of Havana each to send without delay -two pieces of bronze artillery at the same time they had sent an order -to the contracting house in Sevilla to send other pieces that were in -that City on the first occasion and also the two hundred arms asked for, -that the Garrison may not be without the means of defense and safety. To -keep the infantry under good discipline and that the Governor place -himself in communication with the Viceroy and the Governor of Havana to -see that they send him four pieces of artillery. The Florida Governor -gave an account in this letter also, of having formed a cavalry company -and a military company enlisting in them all who were able, old men and -boys not yet of age, his own sons among them. This he did for the -greater safety of the place against the enemy. He was giving the utmost -zeal and care to his duties. In a letter of 1674 the Sergeant-Major -acting as Governor of the Province of Florida, states that a vessel had -arrived at that Port and they had received four pieces of artillery and -other ammunition from the contracting house in Sevilla, that with this -and the artillery that was to come from Havana and New Spain, these -would be sufficient for the defense of the Garrison. By a dispatch of -1674 thanks were sent the Archbishop, Viceroy, for having sent to -Florida all the supplies due that Garrison. It was sent that it might -leave on the fleet passing Vera Cruz for Spain. - -By another dispatch the Governor, Pablo Ita Salazar, was recommended -that he apply himself with much zeal in perfecting the fortification of -the Royal Fort being built in that City and that it be accomplished in a -manner for the best safety of the Province. By Cedula of 1675 the -Sergeant-Major Don Nicolas Ponce de Leon, in reply to a letter of his, -and attentive to an order sent the Governor of Cuba, that if the negro -slaves sent to Havana had not already been sold, he should send -immediately upon their arrival fifty of them to Florida, where they -should be put to work on the Castle under construction. The Indians who -served as peons were not strong and their people were much opposed to -their leaving the planting of corn which is the sustenance of their -families. And the Governor was ordered upon their arrival in Florida to -apply them to this work and relieve the Indians and to finish the -construction as quickly as possible. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - -A. D. 1741-1743. - - _Conduct of the Christians worse than the heathen--Soldiers guarded - while they are cutting timber to repair the Fort--The Castle in a - tumble-down condition--The Garrison to be maintained for the - propagation of the Holy Gospel, and to shelter the workers of the - Apostolic faith--A paper of representation to his Majesty - concerning the properties belonging to the Treasurer, Don Francisco - Menendez, deceased, left by will to the Royal Treasury--The - pressing need of the Infantry of this Garrison; it having no - capital, the property should be sold at public auction and proceeds - go to restore back pay of troops to alleviate suffering, hunger and - need for clothing, instead of being used for a hospital as per the - King’s desire--A letter from Governor Manuel Montiano informs his - Majesty of fourteen English vessels anchored off the Bar of this - Port--Six Spanish galleys sent to meet them at which the enemy - retires._ - - -A. D. 1741. - -_Sire_: - -By the dispatches which, on this occasion, I send you duplicates as well -as the original, you and your Royal and Supreme Council of the Indias -will see the condition of this Port. The continued watch and worry I -have. The continuous watch by day and night of the Infantry to repulse -the hostilities of these enemies. The heathen not being as bad as the -Christians who have risen and commit the most bloody deeds upon all -those whom they catch, carrying off Indians as well as soldiers -prisoners to the Carolinas, where they sell them into bondage. For the -execution of this they have a different set of soldiers stationed at the -terminus of all the roads leading to this Garrison. I am forced to send -out troops on foot and horse to accompany any party going out to fell -and saw timber for the much needed repairs of the ramparts, gather wood, -coal, etc. I began these repairs as soon as I took possession, otherwise -the whole thing would have been demolished and left us with no defense -whatsoever. These repairs cannot last long, for the reasons I have -already repeatedly informed you, and lastly, the great need the Royal -Troops have of rebuilding the ramparts, quarters, warehouses and roofs -that they may stay in at all. To save you such enormous expense as each -day occurs, it will be necessary to fortify the place at once, because -with the English in such close proximity as the Carolinas, this Port is -in the greatest danger of being lost, as the troops are defenseless and -needy as you have been repeatedly informed, and you have given such -stringent orders that the Viceroy should supply all that is needed for -the expulsion of these English, and for which I have done my part far as -possible, as you will see from the consultation I had with him on the -10th of April of this year, an account of which I rendered your Majesty. -Notwithstanding the risk of encountering these enemies, no occasion is -lost of going out to find what is needed and necessary for the -preservation and defense of the Port. Cutting and sawing timber for the -stables and artillery, the most important things--the soliciting of -supplies that we may not be in want as the entire Garrison and -neighborhood depend entirely upon the Royal Warehouses for their -sustenance, as I long ago informed you on the 24th of March. I am hourly -awaiting my successor, to whom I shall give all needed instruction -regarding the defense of this Port from the enemy. I have decided to -surrender as far as possible the execution of the repairs I have -mentioned that he may apply all that he gets to the service of the two -Majesties; that this Garrison may be maintained for the propagation and -extension of the Holy Gospel, as has been done by the good Catholics, -the Kings, your predecessors of a hundred and sixty years, at such -enormous expense with no other interest than to shelter with these arms -the Workers of the Apostolic faith to the greater honor and glory of -God. May He preserve your Majesty. - -FRANCISCO CÓRCOLES Y MARTINEZ. - -St. Augustine, Fla., December 11th, 1741. - - -REPRESENTATION. - -1743. - -The Officers of the Royal Treasury of this Garrison, at the most -convenient time and without prejudice to the definite appeal and -protests made in favor of the same Royal Treasury, represent to your -Highness that in view of this Post having more than seven hundred men, -re-enforcement over and above the troops of its Garrison. That with the -demise of Don Francisco Menendez Marquez, Auditor who was, of these -same Royal Coffers, your Highness has thought that the houses occupied -by him as residence, and all the balance of his property to which he -made the King his sole and only heir, should be dedicated to the use of -hospitals to serve these same troops of the infantry of this Garrison -when occasion offers, on account of the war. Before your Highness -determines to take this step, it becomes indispensable that we should -expose the fact to you that we cannot consent to have the abovementioned -houses assigned to any such uses for the following reasons: - -First, because in his will Don Francisco Menendez Marquez himself -declares that, not being able from the balance of his accounts to -satisfy the Royal Treasury, he understood directly that it became -compulsory for him to ease his conscience that he should name the King -his sole and only heir. From this is deduced that all property known as -that of Don Francisco Menendez is, with legitimate title, the property -of the Royal Treasury. Not having the authority to sell these without an -order from your Majesty, it is consistent that we who are his executors -and lack the Royal permit to determine what disposition to make of it -resist the intention and thought your Highness has formed of the use of -the above mentioned houses and balance of property of the aforementioned -gentleman. It seemed to us that in all fairness and justice they should -be closed out at public auction and the proceeds thereof distributed -among the Infantry of this Garrison; because this Garrison has no -capital of its own, it follows that the legitimate creditors to the -property are these same troops. The Royal Treasury is under obligation -to restore to the Infantry the back pay due them, and never better than -now, that they lack clothing and are perishing, should aid come at a -more opportune time, and it could be done with the proceeds of this -property, lessening the obligation of the Royal Treasury that amount. - -Second: Your Highness can have no conception of the increased suffering -occasioned by the war. The curing of the wounded soldiers and sailors -who have been in this Post for over two years, there being no capital to -apply to the indispensable expense of medical attendance for this -purpose, it is easy to understand that the situation is burdened by -heavy expenses, and to make it clearer, up to the present date no -provision has been made to cover the cost of the many works of -fortification in this Post and on the bar of Matanzas to defend them -against the continued attacks of our enemy, and for the multitude of -Indians who have attached themselves to us with so much firmness and -friendship, who forgetting us, and the word given to your Highness of -remaining neutral in the actual war between ourselves and the English, -and of the liberality of the King who orders them always to be treated -with so much kindness and affection when they come. - - * * * * * - -In a letter of September 15th of last year we explained to your Majesty -how fourteen English vessels had anchored off the bar of this Port, -coming prepared and perfectly sure they could disembark and take -possession. The six galleys of your Majesty met them, and -notwithstanding their continued firing they made them retire. We await -and naturally expect them to return and try to carry out their -intentions. And therefore, your Majesty’s service is as vigilant as -possible to be on the alert to prevent it. It has been a great pleasure -and satisfaction to us to inform your Majesty of the good results -obtained by the efforts of your six galleys in expelling the enemy. We -are watching closely along the coast of this Province for any other -design they may have of entering. God preserve you. - -MANUEL MONTIANO. - -El Prado, March 30th, 1743. - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII. - -A. D. 1770-1771. - - _A letter of resolution to his Majesty in respect to a letter of - appeal made to the Governor and the Bishop of Havana asking for - patent and Holy oil to administer baptism and extreme unction to - the Catholic families taken from the Island of Minorca by the - English--These families bringing with them one Don Pedro Campos, - Doctor of Sacred Theology, as a Parish Priest, and Don Bartolome - Casanovas, of the St. Augustine order, Vicar--These same claiming - to have received their appointment from the Supreme Pontificate, - not knowing to which Bishop this jurisdiction of Florida - belonged--At the end of three years to appear in writing to the - Prelate of the Apostolic choir of that Diocese--This letter sent - secretly by a fisherman--In order that a thorough investigation may - be made, the matter is referred to his Royal Highness--Letter of - the Archbishop of Valencia concerning same--Letter of the Bishop of - Cuba to his Majesty, in which he expresses gratification over the - zeal his Highness has shown concerning this matter--Advises that - these privileges be conferred upon Dr. Pedro Campos and Pedro - Casanovas--Letter of the Bishop of Minorca giving information - concerning the exporting of these families from the Island of - Minorca by the English._ - - -LETTER OF RESOLUTION. - -A. D. 1770. - -_Sire_: - -By order of his Majesty I sent the Knight of the Order, Fray Don Julian -de Arriaga, with papers of February 27th of this year, to the Governor -of Havana, and documents which treat especially of the appeal made to -the Bishop of that diocese, asking him for patent and Holy oil to -administer baptism and extreme unction to the Catholic families who were -taken from Minorca, to colonize the territory in Florida, belonging to -the English, so that it may be recognized and consulted in the Council -whatever may come up on this subject. The proclaimed Governor Don -Antonio Bucareli y Ursna give an account referring to the above -mentioned documents. He states that he received a letter addressed to -the Bishop of that diocese by one of the passing fish boats on its way -to the northern coast for the fisheries. That immediately upon its -receipt, he made returns of a copy of it, and its entire sentiment, -which he forwarded. From the appearance of its contents, the subject -treated, in their judgment it seemed proper to lay the whole matter -before your Majesty, including a copy of the aforementioned letter, that -you might decide what was most agreeable to your Royal pleasure. In the -already mentioned letter signed it seems by Don Pedro Campos, Doctor of -Sacred Theology, dated from Mosquito on the 20th of October of 1769, the -prelate lays before the public the fact that one year previous Mr. -Andrew Turnbull, an Englishman, had taken from the Island of Minorca -about 1300 persons to colonize Florida, for whom he was appointed -Parish Priest and Don Bartolome Casanovas, of the St. Augustine order, -Vicar of said jurisdiction. They had received their appointment from the -Supreme Pontificate, not knowing to which Bishop this jurisdiction of -Florida belonged, but it was their duty to appear by writing before the -expiration of three years to the Prelate of the Apostolic chair in that -diocese. That both of them are natives of Minorca, which Island was -temporarily subject to the King of Great Britain and spiritually to the -Bishop of Minorca. That he had studied philosophy and theology, received -all the orders, been one of the governing body and Vicar. This last -office he had held for twelve years in Minorca. Preached during several -Lents, as had also Padre Casanovas. For all these reasons he begs that -he be sent a patent of Parochial Priest and one of Vicar to Fray -Casanovas. He also asks for some of the Holy Oil used in baptism and -extreme unction. That all these be sent him by the same secret means of -the fishermen for the spiritual aid and advancement of those Catholic -people. - -Successively the same Knight of the Order sent another paper and -testimony to the Bishop of Cuba, Don Santiago Echevarria, saying that -the dispatch or expedient sent belonged to the Council. With the order -of February 27th referring to the solicitude felt by that Vicar and -Parish Priest for the families who had been transported from Minorca, so -that they might be united to this tribunal which could proceed to -recognize them as stated in the prepared information. In it the same -prelate, Don Julian Arriaga, of the diocese, states that at the same -time he had full knowledge of the letter of Dr. Campos, the Governor -passed a bill considering it not worthy of his consideration and not -recognizing the legitimacy of the letter of the pretendent nor his -pontifical jurisdiction. Affirming that the testimony was of little -value or belief. The simple say so of a letter. The class of foreigners -who lived among heretics, diminished their estimation of the Holy Oil, -finally that he considered it absolutely necessary to lay the whole -matter before your Majesty. Considering each clause of the letter, he -deemed that it should be answered by the minister, arranging all -according to his judgment and resolution to be made known, so that -hereafter he may know how to proceed in similar cases. The Council, in -view of the referred report, placed it before the Judge, whose original -answer is in the hands of your Royal Highness confirming the opinion it -contains and placing before your Royal consideration that the judgment -found by the Bishop of Cuba has been very prudent, that he has worked -with wise precaution, because truly the contents of Dr. Campos’ letter -are very delicate, and one should be cautious in being influenced by a -weak letter entrusted to uncertain fishermen. That at all events it -lacks the necessary antecedents required for an affair of less -importance. That the foundation should be the legitimizing of the -persons referred to by the Priest and the Fray Casanovas. The claims -with which they passed to Florida in company with the families from -Minorca and the jurisdiction they assure us to have received from the -Supreme Pontificate. Nothing of this has been sent in document form, nor -promised to be sent in such form, ignoring also whether the families -from said Island taken out by the English were Catholics, and if they -had passed into Florida as such and with the freedom of enforcing their -religion. That Catholics, permanent residents of Florida, should ask -spiritual aid of the Bishop of Cuba, is perfectly proper, because, -before the occupation of the English, Mosquito was under his -jurisdiction. Neither should sacred things be exposed to the scorn and -ridicule of heretics, nor should it be badly administered. The secret -manner in which Dr. Campos seeks this aid, so very queer, because if the -families from Minorca are Catholic and were transported as such to -Florida with the free privilege of their religion, as is seen by their -efforts in bringing with them a Parish Priest and Vicar. The English -would certainly not oppose them in publicly asking for and having all -that is required by these same Catholics for administering the -sacraments, education of the masses, and spiritual good of their souls. -All this makes it indispensable that we should have a thorough knowledge -and investigation of these affairs by other means before we can decide -on this matter with any certainty. To which is added that by the article -eleven of the Treaty of Peace adjusted on the 13th of July of the year -1713, in which was ceded to the crown of Great Britain the Island of -Minorca, (among other things) promised by his British Majesty was that -the inhabitants of the said Island should enjoy in all safety and -peacefulness all the honors and privileges of the Roman Catholic -religion, and also that for the preservation of this religion they -should take all measures which did not appear exposed to the Government -of Sevilla and laws of Great Britain. Thus it seems to the Council that -your Minister in Rome should be appointed to investigate the matter -with the greatest solicitude, because if the Catholics of the above -mentioned Island of Minorca, transported by the English in the year 1768 -(as we deduce from Dr. Campos’ letter), have made an appeal to the -Apostolic Secretary in order to carry with them their own Pastor, and if -his Holiness has named in the capacity of the Parish Priest and Vicar -the referred to Don Pedro Campos and Don Bartolome Casanovas of the St. -Augustine Order, and such jurisdiction assigned to them. - -Being informed as briefly and clearly as possible, extend an order to -the Captain-General of the Island of Minorca and to the Bishop of that -Diocese that they may separately inform if they know of the exportation -of the families of Minorca by the English to populate Florida. If the -declared families were Catholic, and if the Prelates lived and behaved -as priests; if they passed over here with the understanding that they -had free use of their religion, if Dr. Campos and Pedro Casanova were -elected as Parish Priest and Vicar of them. What is the character and -circumstances of these two subjects, and if on accepting they gave -notice and obtained permission of that minister and that prelate. In the -meanwhile if the steps have been taken, it is imperative that the -Governor of Havana and the Bishop of Cuba be given to understand that -the prudent steps taken by them was exactly and perfectly agreeable to -your Majesty. Their determination and your agreeing with it perfectly as -though they had anticipated your resolution on the present subject. That -without appearing in it, the Bishop should try by all means available to -investigate the manner of practising the Catholic religion by these -Minorcans in Florida. The position of Dr. Campos and Fray Casanovas who -are supposed to be Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic portion of -the settlement. Let a similar order be given the Governor so as to -advance as speedily as possible with the news, giving information of the -results of the search that your Majesty may decide on what is most -agreeable to your Royal Highness. - -Madrid, Sept. 27th, 1770. - - -LETTER OF THE ARCHBISHOP OF VALENCIA. - -_My Dear Sir_: - -Having formed the corresponding petition, begging for an extension of -the privileges granted Don Pedro Campos and Pedro Bartolome Casanovas, I -also asked the Pope in the name of his Royal Majesty to grant these -ministers all privileges in their spiritual management, as requested by -his Majesty. - -Your Lordship notified me as seems quite proper the time to investigate -concerning these privileges, he being one of the supervisors at the -tribunal of the Holy Office, he immediately accomplished what was asked -by sending to his Holiness at the instigation of Monseñor Autoville, -Assessor of said Tribunal, who spoke favorably of helping them with his -influence, as he did, and you will see by the enclosed letter of -Saturday sent by Señor Zelada. He informs me that his Holiness extends -to them the privileges for a term of twenty years and inquires of me if -I have attended to the balance of the communications soliciting greater -privileges for these Ecclesiastics, enclosing for my instruction the -printed pamphlet of privileges granted the Bishop of Cuba, where he -facilitates the authentic open mandate. Seeming to me to be agreeable -and satisfactory to the King, I replied that he should ask these -privileges and notify me, as he has done, and which I send you, hoping -they will deserve your approval and the pleasure of his Majesty. I take -this occasion of placing myself at your disposal, and may God grant you -a long life is the wish of - -THE BISHOP OF VALENCIA. - -Trascati, August 28th, 1771. - - -LETTER OF THE BISHOP OF CUBA. - -_Sire_: - -I have had the honor of receiving the Royal Cedule of your Majesty dated -in Idelfonso 16th of August, of this year, in reply to my letter of -February 19th. You condescend to enclose me a copy of what the Rev. -Bishop of Minorca has written regarding the Catholic families who were -taken from Minorca to establish themselves in the English territory of -Florida, called Mosquito, and a literal copy of the privileges granted -by the Apostolic See to the Parish Priest and Vicar of them. - -You order me that in the use of peculiar privileges and delegated in -consequence of the subordination under which these Presbyters declare -themselves. I should grant them the titles they ask of parochial and -assistant in the most approved form under the present state of -affairs--to furnish them with the Holy Oil as long as there should be no -reason for withholding it, and take entire care of those faithful, -governing them by means of these ministers, and taking as many -precautions as I consider proper to the preservation of the faith, -availing myself in case of need of the Governor and Captain-General of -this Island. Your Majesty advises me of the official letters addressed -by the Secretary of State to the Court of London, representing clearly -what was said by the Bishop of Minorca, and also the result of the -solicitation which by your order has aided the Rev. Archbishop of -Valencia with his Holiness, in obtaining from him an extension of the -privileges granted these Ecclesiastics extend even beyond mine--and it -is well and needed for the spiritual good of this Catholic portion. Have -the goodness to permit me to express the sweet commotion my soul has -felt at seeing the proper zeal on the part of your Majesty, and the -interest you take in extending the Kingdom of Christ over all the world. -This example must influence the Pastors, as we have the honor of -rendering homage to so great and Catholic a Monarch. - -As to the instructions of your Sovereign Majesty that I should -communicate your resolutions to the Marquez de la Torre, the new -Governor and Captain-General of this city and Island, I did not have to -encourage his zeal in the affair. Full of the greatest energy in the -service of God and your Majesty, he immediately fitted up a vessel -which, under the pretext of fishing along the coast of Florida, should -approach Mosquito Inlet and deliver to Dr. Pedro Campos, through safe -hands, the two titles, for himself that of Parish Priest and Vicar for -his companion, Pedro Casanovas--a delegation of various privileges I -have considered advisable for the spiritual good of that Diocese under -its dangerous constitution. A casket containing three vessels of the -Holy Oil needed, and two assistants for the divine worship, all of which -I offer up to the service of God. - -These documents I place at the foot of your throne. By them you will see -how I have written to these Ministers inspiring them with a spirit of -gratitude. I encourage and sustain them to carry out their good -enterprise, exacting a report under pretext of aiding them in their -spiritual emergencies. The moment I obtain them I shall send to your -Majesty all the light I obtain on the subject. I shall be on the lookout -to consult the books used by these Religious men, and aid them in all -that is needed for the reasonable administration of the sacraments and -health of their souls. Judging by the measures I have taken of their -delegation they will scarcely need the extension of the first words of -the Holy Chair. On the arrival of these, I shall take other means more -suitable to these circumstances, and in all shall try to carry out the -real intentions your Majesty has deemed proper to state to me and -nothing will be more gratifying than to ascertain them through my -fidelity to God, who I hope will preserve you for many years. - -Havana, December 14th, 1771. - - -LETTER OF THE BISHOP OF MINORCA. - -_My Dear Sir_: - -On date of October 27th just passed and by order of your Majesty, on the -occasion of a representation made you by common accord by the Bishop and -Governor of Havana, I was commissioned by Don Tomas Melio, predecessor -of your Majesty’s, to give any information I could regarding the -exporting of the families from the Island of Minorca by the English to -colonize Florida. If these families were Catholics and if Dr. Pedro -Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, who accompanied them, had been -elected for that purpose, their character and circumstances and if for -the acceptance of this commission they notified me and obtained my -license. - -It seems suitable to my ministry to give a categorical reply to what has -been asked, the impediments imposed on my jurisdiction by the Governor -of said Island when the exportation was carried into effect, with me to -the extent of opening my private letters, suspecting others might be -enclosed in them for me. This deprived me of all news regarding the -exportation, which by means of some who came from said Islands brought -me news of my Vicar-General by word of mouth, it being impossible to -write under the circumstances, that the families were all Catholics and -passed over with the free use of their religion having accompanied them -two Ecclesiastics to serve as Parochial Priests, and I am persuaded they -were the same who gave rise to the representation. During the opposition -of that Governor to the exercise of my authority I many times resorted -to carry from the Island to the Court, to men who were worthy to protect -the benignity of our Catholic religion with messages to your Ambassador -at the Court and at my instigation they were placed at your Royal feet -by the Marquez of Grimalde with whose powerful help and meditation we -finally obtained a hearing of the private Council of the King of Great -Britain which took place on last June, when a Decree was sent stating -that no state, and I have placed myself in communication with the Vicar -to whom I have written that without loss of time he informed me of all -that had occurred in the exportation, how executed, the circumstances of -the two Ecclesiastics and if they went with this permission, and all -else conducive to a satisfactory reply. This I will fulfill immediately -I receive a reply. In the meantime the exportation being undoubtedly -public and notorious, also that it was occasioned by the want and -suffering endured in that Island by many families on account of poor -crops for several consecutive years which obliged me to grant -dispensation from the eating of lactenacious food and meat on prohibited -days. Most of the families who went to Florida had come to this Island -to colonize the unhappy city of Aludia, and if I rightly understand, I -do not doubt but that some went to Cierra Morena or other places in -Spain, from the manner in which the Vicar-General communicated to me the -exportation, I doubt if the Ecclesiastics went with his permission, he -would only have allowed and tolerated it for the good of the religion -and not to irritate the Governor more by reports which, when I first -arrived on this Island, he gave me of all the Ecclesiastics. It results -that Dr. Campos was a good and laborious Priest, devoted strictly to his -ministerial duties, and had been Vicar for some years. That he was Vicar -of a village of that Island. This is confirmed by several persons of -Minorca who, in this unsettled state, are still here, and although some -of the clergy do not give such good reports, those they have given of -his conduct are not bad, but being obliged to state all that I -understood in this city regarding the exportation, I am assured by -several persons that bad news is being spread of the unhappiness in -which these families live, their disgust with the country where there is -nothing but hard labor and want, in place of the happiness and riches -they had been promised by the English, and what is worse, that they -themselves (without stating the reason) had assassinated the said -Clergyman who had accompanied them. This is all I can tell you at -present, until I have a reply for the worse from my Vicar-General of -Minorca. In the meantime I take this occasion to congratulate your -Majesty upon your new destiny and after my services praying God may -grant you long life. - -BISHOP OF MINORCA. - -Palma, February 5th, 1771. - - - - -CHAPTER XIX. - -A. D. 1771. - - _The opinion of the Judge, after having examined the different - letters from the Bishops and those in authority connected therewith - and after making thorough investigation into this matter concerning - the granting of the patent and graces asked for by these Priests of - the Minorcan families of the English colony of Florida--The Bishop - of Cuba for the Council to Dr. Don Pedro Campos and the Rev. Father - Bartolome Casanovas, extends to these Priests the title of Parish - Priest and Vicar--Also sends a box containing three flasks of - Sacred Oil--Hopes soon to be able to send a more extended - prorogation of other powers--This grace having been solicited by - the King from the Court of Rome--Asks for a more extended report of - the number of families and condition of the congregation._ - - -The Judge has seen a letter of the Rev. Archbishop of Valencia, Minister -of his Majesty, in the Court of Rome, dated Dec. 13th of the last year, -in which replying to another of Nov. 3rd by the Secretary of State, he -informs him of some indulgences and privileges granted by the Apostolic -See to Dr. Pedro Campos, secular priest, and to Father Bartolome -Casanovas of the St. Augustine Order, who accompanied the Catholic -families of Minorca in the year 1768 selected by the English for their -colony in Florida in America. He has also seen another letter from the -Rev. Bishop of Minorca of the 5th of February last, who informs him that -by Royal Cedula of November 7th of the past year, he has been asked -regarding the manner practised in the selection of the families of -Minorca and the circumstances of said prelates; he gives all the -information he knows and can at present, promising that immediately upon -receipt of news he expects and has asked for he will forward. Lastly -that he has investigated and informed himself of the Royal order of the -1st of the present March by which these letters have passed to the -Council, that they may agree in the provisions they deem worthy and -advisable. For the better understanding of all this affair it must be -remembered that the Governor of Havana, Don Antonio Bucareli, gave an -account on the 11th of January of the referred to year, of the arrival -of another certificate of the virtues of one for Beatification, directed -to the Rev. Bishop and seemingly written by Dr. Pedro Campos who calls -himself Parish Priest of the families of Minorca who were selected by -the English for their colony of Florida; that this letter had been put -in the hands of the Diocesan Prelate; that one and the other had -notified his Majesty of the difficulties surrounding the request and -proposition of Dr. Campos, as has been demonstrated by the antecedent -documents. It is also worthy of consideration that Dr. Campos in his -letter at the same time that he states the selection and transmigration -of the Minorcans to Florida participates that he had been elected Parish -Priest of said families, and Father Casanovas, Vicar of them, which -jurisdiction they had received from the Supreme Pontificate who ignored -to which Bishop they were subject in that English colony; but placing -them under obligation to appear by writing before the expiration of -three years to the Holy See and the Diocesan Prelate that one and the -other were natives of Minorca, subject under the temporal power to Great -Britain and spiritually to the Bishop of Minorca, both having exercised -for many years the position of priests in preaching the Gospel and moral -doctrines. And for this reason they begged the Rev. Bishop of Cuba to -send them patents of Parish Priest and Vicar for Father Casanovas, as -also the Holy Oil for baptism and extreme unction, and two assistant -priests, proceeding with circumspection and secrecy and taking advantage -of the fishermen of that coast, being all the inducement required for -the help and benefit of the spiritual good of the Catholics. The Rev. -Bishop of Cuba, considering the grave importance of the matter, -refrained from replying to Dr. Campos, being ignorant of the quality and -jurisdiction of his authority, and not to expose to irreverence the -sacred matter of the Holy Oil, sending it to a Protestant Colony, and -not knowing the person nor authority he had for exercising the place of -Parish Priest, especially as the letter had not come in a legitimate -way; but by the uncertain conduct of fishermen entrusted with the secret -of an affair which did not seem to require this means, as there was -liberty of religion observed in the English Colony, and as the Minorcans -reserved the right to practise the Catholic religion. - -The Judge, in view of all this, adopts the idea of the Rev. Bishop of -Cuba, and approves his prudent resolution, and was of the opinion that -this matter be illustrated by investigation, as to whether it was true -that this authority was granted by the Apostolic See, to the Prelates -Campos and Casanovas--and under what terms and considerations. What -subjects they were, if they had been appointed by the Diocesan of -Minorca, if they were of good habits, and if the Minorcans were -Catholics. If under these terms they had come to Florida with the view -of carrying out the necessary orders of the Prelate and Governor of -Minorca, and the Minister of your Majesty in the Court of Rome. All of -which was accomplished, this being the antecedent which gives motive to -the reply of the letters which have remained so long unanswered. The -Minister of Rome gives information that in the month of June of 1768 -were deputised as Apostolic missionaries for the English Province of -Florida, the aforementioned Dr. Campos and Father Casanovas, this last -as Vicar for the Minorcan families who asked of the Apostolic See, that -different authority should be granted these Prelates for the term of -three years, and in the meantime permission of his Holiness, according -to terms which result by a simple copy which will accompany their -letter. This Minister adds to have stated to his Holiness that if it -were agreeable to His Majesty that this authority be promulgated and -privileges granted that his only object was to please and serve the -Catholic King. - -The Apostolic indulgences being examined, it results that they were -reduced to six: administering the sacraments, asking permission of the -Bishop, and under the same condition the authority in all hidden cases -of granting dispensation to the poor, for contracting matrimony, to -erect churches and chapels--all these must be exercised without pay for -the term of three years, in the meantime with the approbation of the -Apostolic See. The Rev. Bishop of Minorca says: that he cannot furnish -the information asked of him until he obtains news of his Vicar-General -of Minorca, who has not been able to execute it by writing, but he -assures us that these Prelates and all the Minorcan families were -Catholics and passed to Florida carrying with them two Ecclesiastics who -might be the said Campos and Casanovas. The Judge, with reference to -all, considers that he has discovered sufficient truth to assuage the -just fears of the Rev. Bishop of Cuba, to the recourse to the Apostolic -See, by the Minorcan families or of the Prelates Campos and Casanovas -and the authority granted to these by his Holiness. The application for -help of Dr. Campos dispels all doubt which might arise from the distance -between Florida and the Island of Cuba. From all this result other -useful things, since all this authority granted Dr. Campos and Father -Casanovas is left at the disposal of the Bishop of Cuba and as this -Prelate and to all those of America so many pontifical authorities are -granted, he can very well make use of it for the spiritual government of -the little flock of Catholics residing in the English Colony and examine -the privileges granted to these Presbyters, adopting them according to -the nature and delegate of the authority of their Pastoral Office. It is -true that the secrecy asked by Dr. Campos caused some misgivings, but in -view of what it expounded by the Rev. Bishop of Minorca the mystery is -solved, as perhaps it has happened in Florida as in Minorca and Minorca -in regard to the disturbances of the Catholic religion, the English -having been wanting in their promises drawn up in their agreement. So -that, as the Vicar-General of Minorca had no expedient in his -jurisdiction, the same may have happened to Dr. Campos and Father -Casanovas who, in consequence of the determination of the Court of -London, cannot proceed in all concerning the education and spiritual -care of the Catholics. - -Under these considerations the Judge feels that the Rev. Bishop of Cuba -should send him a copy of all that he wishes, sharing with him the care -of the faithful of Florida, governing them by means of the -aforementioned ministers and taking as much forethought as his zeal -dictates and he considers convenient to a good government and conversion -of that Catholic portion, availing themselves of the necessary form of -Governor of Havana and Captain-General of that Island of Cuba, not only -for having been the means of which Dr. Campos availed himself, but also -that he may communicate with the Governor and Chief of Florida, and that -the Rev. Bishop of Minorca send him notice of his letter and beg him to -take charge and investigate such reports as may come up, informing -himself through the Vicar-General of Minorca and also of those Catholic -subjects who from said Island have passed to the city of Alzuvia as we -are assured in his letter. That the Commandant of Minorca be stimulated -anew to obtain the information demanded of him. And that he send -documents to the Marquez of Gremaldin to the effect that he send notice -to the Council of the church service, which by the Secretary in charge -has been made in the Courts of London at the instance of the clergy and -Bishop of Minorca, and of the resolution taken by the Council, provided -by the King of Great Britain. These documents being necessary, to send a -copy to the Governor and Bishop of Cuba that they may proceed securely -and provide such resources as are needed, for all of which they can free -themselves with necessary speed. Notwithstanding the Council will -remember what is most agreeable. - -Madrid, April 16th, 1771. - - -FOR THE COUNCIL. - -A. D. 1771. - -_My Dear Sir_: - -I have not forgotten your Excellency’s letter of Oct. 20th of 1768, in -which you state to me your merits and occupation as also that of Father -Bartolome Casanovas of the St. Augustine Order, and you expound to me -the motives which induce you to apply to me for your title of Parish -Priest of the Catholic families of Minorcans established in Mosquito, -English territory of Florida, and that of Vicar for the other Priest. -Also asking for the Sacred Oils with which to administer baptism and -extreme unction, and for two assistant Priests of the Divine office. In -order that I might reply to your claims I considered it advisable to -submit it to the higher authority and intelligence of the King, my Lord, -and that I might be enlightened by his Sovereign order regarding all -requirements for so delicate and serious a subject. I have received all -the light on the subject I wished through a Royal Cedula of Aug. 16th of -the present year, composed of documents which legitimatize the -character of your executive and that of your companion. The power and -authority invested in you by the Holy See and the professed Catholicism -of the Minorcan families to whom you both administer. Also the various -instructions all relative to my government in that Catholic Colony whose -obedience and prompt attention to the kind intentions of the King our -Sovereign, I extend to you (by means of a safe and trusty guide) the -title of Parish Priest and Vicar. A copy containing the only and -extraordinary powers of the Apostolic Chair, which I hold and which I -convey to your Excellency and by your death, sickness or other -legitimate impediment, to your companion. That the time with the -requirements expressed therein, two assistant priests of the Divine -office and a box with three flasks of sacred oil, distinguished as the -Chrisma, Catecuma, and for the sick. I hope soon to send you a more -extended prorogation of other powers, that you may make good use of them -to the benefit of that small flock, and in case of you and your -companion’s death, the Priest I should nominate. This is a grace that -the Catholic and clement heart of the King has solicited from the Court -of Rome, through the means of his Minister. It is also reserved that I -shall be promptly advised of the results of the Offices made in the -court of London, by order or representation of the Illustrious Bishop of -Minorca, and the resolutions taken by the private council of the King of -Great Britain in the month of June of the past year, with the only -desire that their people do not become discouraged in the Holy Religion -they profess, and that they owe such great blessings to the best of -Monarchs whose large soul guides all his thoughts and intentions to the -sustenance and propagation of the true Roman Faith, making it noticed -and perceived by the whole world his pious and eminent care for humanity -and his heroic and glorious zeal. Your Excellency will make it -understood by those chosen few, the gratitude and acknowledgment these -sublime demonstrations bind them to fulfill. Apply yourself to guide -them and make them patient with all love and charity. Apply yourself to -all this and count on my assistance in all that is needed to secure this -important work. That I may better form an idea of your wants and desires -to relieve them with the spiritual aid that your condition requires, it -would be well you should send me immediately an individual report of the -constitution, material and formula of your church and a list of the -families who compose your congregation. State all excesses, and anything -you deem worthy of my consideration and within my Province. These last -will always have for their object the salvation of the souls confided to -the good conscience and care of your Excellency and your companion, -whose good conduct I flatter myself leaves nothing to desire, being -perfect and complete in the discharge of his respective ministerial -duties to the honor and glory of God. These are of such interest that we -are obliged to sacrifice our best efforts, the repose and even loss of -our own lives. I remain with best wishes and always ready to conciliate -your wishes. May God guide you for many happy years. - -I kiss your hand and am your affectionate and sincere Chaplain, - -THE BISHOP OF CUBA. - -Señor Dr. Don Pedro Campos (absent). - -Rev. Father Bartolome Casanovas. - -It agrees with the original letter and its contents, which remain in the -Secretary under my charge and which I remit by order of the Bishop, my -Lord. I took this out in Havana on the 3rd day of December, 1771. - -DR. JOSE DE LA BANDERA, Secretary. - - - - -CHAPTER XX. - -A. D. 1773. - - _Proceedings of the Council upon information obtained from his - Majesty’s Minister at the Court of Rome concerning the appeal made - by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic families established - in the English territory of Florida--The matter contained in the - different Bishops’ letters, also the letters of the Priest and - Vicar asking for patent and further privileges rehearsed--A report - of the condition of the said Minorcan families who are dissatisfied - with the lack of spiritual comforts--Have built a brick church and - are very devout--Of their desire to throw off the yoke of Great - Britain and their love for Spain--Reply of the Judge--Testimony - sent by the Bishop of Cuba._ - - -COUNCIL. - -Report relative to information obtained from His Majesty’s minister at -the Court of Rome in reply to the order expedited as a result of the -appeal made by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic families -established in the English territory of Florida, to the Bishop of Cuba, -asking for the Holy Oil. - - -PROCEEDINGS. - -First--In Council on September 27th of last year, it was called to your -Royal attention in Council, what had been represented by the Governor of -Havana and Rev. Bishop of Cuba, concerning the appeal made to the -Bishop of Cuba by Dr. Pedro Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, the -first Parish Priest, the second Vicar of the Catholic families who were -taken from Minorca to colonize the territory of Florida, belonging to -the English, asking for the Holy Oil, with which to administer baptism. -It seemed that your Majesty’s Minister in the Court of Rome was the most -worthy person to solicit and obtain with promptness the information as -to whether the Catholics taken from the Island of Minorca by the English -in the year 1768, had made an appeal to the Holy See that they might -carry with them their own Pastors, and if his Holiness had named in the -capacity of Parish or Parochial Priest and Vicar of the referred to -people, the Presbyters Dr. Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, and -what jurisdiction had been conceded to them, giving all information with -the greatest clearness; also, that the correspondence and letter be -expedited to the Captain-General of the Island of Minorca and the Bishop -of that Diocese that they should inform separately all details they knew -of the extraction of the families of Minorca made by the English to -colonize Florida, if said families were Catholics and lived and behaved -as such. If they went over with the privilege of the free use of their -religion, and if Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas were elected Parish -Priest and Vicar of them. What was the character of these two Subjects, -and if for the acceptance of this charge they gave notice and obtained -permission from that Minister. In the meantime, while such steps are -being taken, that they should acknowledge to the Governor of Havana and -Bishop of Cuba, the receipt of their letters stating it to have been to -the Royal approval of your Majesty the determination they had agreed -upon--notifying each that your Majesty would take some action in the -matter, but that the Bishop should try to inform himself of the manner -of practising the Catholic religion by these Minorcans in Florida, and -the manner of assistance by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic -Town and that the same be forwarded to the Governor, so that one and the -other advance the information resulting therefrom. And your Majesty -having agreed in this opinion should order the corresponding Royal -Cedulas and letters agreed upon with date of October 27th and November -7th of last year. - - -FINAL CONDITION. - -In this condition the Council received a letter from the Rev. Bishop of -Minorca of February 5th of this year, stating that he could not take the -required steps for obtaining information asked, as he awaited news of -his Vicar-General of Minorca, who had sent him some messages by word of -mouth, not being able to do so by writing on account of the interference -of the Governor of that Island. Notwithstanding the difficulties the -Vicar had communicated to him the fact that all the families were -Catholics who went to Florida with the free use of their religion, -carrying with them, to serve as Parish Priest and Vicar, two -Ecclesiastics, one secular and one monastic (belonging to an order), and -they might be the ones mentioned. This Prelate adding that the first was -a good and laborious Priest, applying himself strictly to his -Ministerial duties, and had been Vicar for many years on that Island. -That of the other he did not have such good reports, although those he -had were not so bad. That it was reported the English had assassinated -this Priest without stating a reason for doing so. That last June, on -account of the troubles between this Court and the Court of London, a -decree was obtained from the private Council of the King of Great -Britain that in Minorca there should be no further interference with the -Ecclesiastics; that now a more quiet state exists and things are -restored to their normal state, therefore the Rev. Bishop awaited news -of the matter from his Vicar, having asked for it last October 27th. - -Prior to this Fray Julian Ariaga had sent a document, dated March 1st of -the present year, written upon the resolution of your Majesty, expressed -in a letter notifying your Minister at the Court of Rome, who having -verified and accomplished the same the accompanying note, showing the -powers and privileges invested in Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas. These -documents are sent by order of his Majesty to the Council, that upon -seeing them they may agree upon the provisions most expedient. In this -letter the Minister of your Majesty in Rome states that in the month of -June of 1768 they were empowered as Apostolic Missionaries for the -English Province of Florida. The Minorcan families had petitioned the -Holy See to invest these Prelates with certain powers, which was done, -granting them these powers for a term of three years, in the meantime a -Permit of His Holiness accompanied it set forth in these terms, as shown -by the copy--if it should be agreeable to your Majesty that they make -use of these powers and privileges--that he was only too glad and -willing to serve and please so good and Catholic a King. - -From the above mentioned letter of indulgences, it appears that they are -six, reduced to the administering of the Parochial Sacraments, obtaining -first permission from the Bishop or his Vicar. These places are near, -not further than two days’ journey of ten leagues each day by land from -the Province of Florida, and under the same conditions these Priests are -invested with the power of absolving abroad all such hidden cases, -although it be reserved for the Holy See to give dispensation to the -poor, where they wish to contract matrimony within certain degrees of -kinship. Some of these privileges of dispensation are granted to some -Priests approved by their Bishop. They could construct churches and -chapels in the Colony under the same restrictions of getting a permit -from the Diocesan Bishop, if not absent and at too great a distance. -These privileges were to be exercised in a gracious manner for only -three years, in the meantime under permit of the Holy See. The Council -of March 4th of this year, having agreed that this expedient be -transferred to the Judge with the former proceedings. In his reply of -August 16th is the following. With regard to all that is stated he says: -that he discovers ample reasons to quiet the mind and anxieties -indicated by the Bishop of Cuba, as it is evident the Minorcan families -obtain direct permission from the Holy See granting these powers to Dr. -Campos and Padre Casanovas--leaving them, however, subordinates to the -Diocesan Bishop while he was not at too great a distance. That the -proceedings of Dr. Campos remove all doubt which might arise of the -distance of the Bishop, as this Presbyter recognizes him as his own and -proper Pastor. From this the Judge decides that the Bishop of Cuba can -grant, without any further fear, the requests of Dr. Campos; that he -should contribute to it, not alone for the consolation it would bring -those Catholic families, but also to confirm and establish his -jurisdiction, and have it under his control in all things concerning the -Faith. Under these terms occur many others which are useful, as the -privileges are granted these Ecclesiastics, but places them legally -under control of the Bishop of Cuba. And as to this Prelate, as well as -to all those in America, such ample privileges are granted, he might -well avail himself of them for the spiritual government of the flock of -Catholics residing in the English Colony. He could examine the -privileges conceded and interpret them as the new ones of his Pastoral -Office. It is true that the caution and secrecy used by Dr. Campos -caused some anxiety and suspicion, but in view of what the Rev. Bishop -of Minorca says, the mystery is discovered, supposing that the same -circumstances had arisen in Florida as in Minorca, and there had been -religious disturbances, or that the English had failed to comply with -the treaties of the capitulation. That as the Vicar-General of Minorca -was prevented from carrying on his correspondence with the Diocese of -Minorca, the same might have occurred with Dr. Campos, owing to the -proceedings at the Court of London he could have no intercourse with any -other Diocese. That aside from these considerations, which are to be -regretted, the Judge considers it well for the Bishop of Cuba to retain -a copy with all the particulars given by the Bishop of Minorca, -referring to the good standing of the Catholics who emigrated to the -English Colony, and that the high standing of Dr. Campos and Padre -Casanovas and send a literal copy of the privileges granted to them by -the Apostolic See, omitting the expression used in the summary of the -“Bula de la Cena.” But that the Bishop make use of all the privileges -granted him, and expedite the titles of Parochial Pastor and Vicar which -have been asked of him in such terms as are best suited for the present, -and send them the Holy Oils, if nothing new should arise to prevent it. -So care for the faithful of Florida and govern them by means of these -same Ministers--using all the zeal and care he considers good for -them--making use of the Governor of Havana and the Captain-General if -necessary. Not only that he was the means used by Dr. Campos for -obtaining these concessions, but that documents may be passed between -himself and the Governor of Florida, he should have the Bishop of -Minorca to acknowledge receipt of his letter, and beg him to verify the -reports and information given by the Vicar-General of Minorca of those -Catholic subjects who passed from the City of Alusia (Alcubea) as he -assures us in his letter. That the commandant of Minorca make it -obligatory that he give this information asked, and that an official -report be made of it and sent to the Marquis of Grimaldi that he in turn -may report it to the Council as his individual report of what the -secretary under his charge has done in the Court of London at the -representation of the Clergy and Bishop of Minorca and the resolution -taken by the private Council of the King of Great Britain in the month -of June of the past year, as affirmed by the same Bishop. These -documents are necessary according as what may be produced or forwarded -by the Governor or Bishop of Cuba, so as to proceed with security and -remit to the Ministers of Florida the necessary resources and forward -categorical documents if found necessary. By means of these dispatches -and letters all things may be facilitated. - - -NOTE. - -This expedient being ready for the Councils, two letters have been -received, one from the proclaimed Bishop of Minorca and the other from -the Commandant of that Island, Marques de Alos, both dated April 22nd of -the present year. The first states that in consequence of what he spoke -of in his preceding letter of February 5th, that an account of the -troubles on the Island of Minorca in trying to open war with this Court, -His Vicar-General who resides there did not dare to answer His letter of -December 14th past, regarding the various families who had passed into -Florida. That only by a note, without his signature, did he intimate -that this Priest had the title of Prelate and the power to confess and -preach. That he was a person of merit, capacity and virtue. That the -Monk who accompanied him had the license and power to preach and hear -confessions; that immediately after the publication of peace he heard -from the same Vicar, who after writing of several affairs corresponding -to his ministerial duties, He states that from his Parish alone on -account of the great suffering from failures of crops, there had gone to -Florida with others from that Island and Spain, more than three hundred -families. They were urged by insinuations from the Government who -offered them homes, with land to cultivate and hold and the free use of -their Catholic religion, adding these remarks regarding the proclaimed -Priests: Dr. Campos, who had served as Vicar and Parish Priest in the -Parish of Mercadal, had asked him for letters and testimonials to pass -over to Florida, which he granted and in them stated the good character -He bore and exemplary life He had led and good work he had done for the -Church, having served many years as Vicar and being well versed in -literature. The St. Augustine Monk who accompanied Him was Padre -Bartolome Casanovas; he found nothing wrong in His conduct; He had -preached in the Parish of Alazor and was consequently the Confessor of -men; he did not remember more. He concludes his letter stating that this -is about all He can say on the subject. The Commandant, Marques de Alos, -in His letter stated that He had not been able sooner to make the -necessary inquiries and comply with the order on account of the -differences between this Court and that of London, but that things -having quieted he has been able to ascertain that the transmigration of -these families was made by the offer of lands to cultivate and retain -with the free use of their Catholic Religion as practised by the -Minorcans of that Island, according to the treaty between both Courts. -That Dr. Campos was assistant Parish Priest of Mercadal--a Priest of -exemplary life and habits, taking with Him his credentials from the -Vicar of the Diocese in Mahon. It was supposed that the Augustine Monk -went also with permission of his Superior, but of that nothing certain -was obtained, as that portion of the Island of Minorca was under the -dominion of Great Britain, and only the Ecclesiastics recognized the -superiority of the Bishop of that Diocese--this was all he could certify -in obedience to the command received. Later a letter came from the -Bishop of Cuba, dated February 19th; on the same subject in response to -the order sent by Royal Cedula of November 7th, he says: That having -devoted himself to find out, with every precaution, he was able to -obtain the following information from one of the fishermen who has been -in the Catholic Minorcan settlement. That these families are established -in their homes, the house of Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas being the -principal one of the place. They have a church built of brick, quite -commodious and decent; that having obtained last year large and abundant -crops of corn and indigo, they loaded two vessels with indigo, but that -they are dissatisfied on account of the number of deaths occurring among -them and also the lack of spiritual comforts from this same Priest, who -had asked for the Holy Oil of the Bishop of Cuba. That most of the -Minorcan Colonists are very devout; He saw them daily praying the Rosary -and receiving communion, but all wish to throw off the yoke of Great -Britain and pass again to the dominion of your Majesty--demonstrating -with strong and lively expressions their love and conservatism for the -Crown of Spain. This I believe, from all He tells me, He saw during His -stay among them. The Bishop concludes by stating: It is all he can tell -us regarding this affair, but he has taken steps for further information -which he will forward to your Majesty when obtained. All of which I make -known to the Council that it may proceed as most convenient. - -Number 87--3--27-- Year 1773. - - -REPLY OF THE JUDGE. - -The Judge being cognizant of your Majesty’s Royal Decree regarding the -consultation held by the Government on December 10th, 1772, at which -time said Tribunal recalling the proceedings and last state of the -expedient of the Minorcan families who passed over to Florida, with the -free use of their Catholic religion, he brings to the consideration of -your Majesty, among other things, that they implore of the Apostolic See -the grace and power for the actual missionaries of the Commission or -Bull from the Vatican, that they may administer the Sacrament of -confirmation to these faithful ones, while the Bishop of Cuba does not -dare concede these powers to them, on account of the natives and his -peculiar Episcopal dignity. That your Royal person deign to confer with -the Council in the following terms. As the Judge has decided, it seems -proper that my Minister in Rome should supplicate the Vatican for a -Bull, granting power to these missionaries, and have it sent by the -reserved way for their direction. In obedience to this sovereign -resolution, and to accomplish it in the spirit intended, the Judge has -had present the origin of this affair and the motive which actuated the -sentiment of the Council to the referred consultation of December 10th, -and with reference to one and the other He has found the minutes which -are rubricated by His hand, and accompany this reply. The proclaimed -minutes comprehend a general idea of the manner and style in which the -Minister of this Court in Rome should present the supplication and urge -the granting thereof in the order and regularity with which these -affairs are conducted in the Offices and Tribunals of Rome. The Judge -has not seen proper to state the form of these Bulls, leaving that to -the arbitration of your Majesty’s Minister, that time may not be lost -when the opportunity presents itself. The Judge feels that if the -Council finds nothing to correct in the minutes they should be sent by -the “via reservada” as arranged by the Royal Decree already mentioned, -that your Majesty may give it the direction which corresponds and is of -your Royal pleasure. - -Madrid, Aug. 21st, 1773. - - -TESTIMONY SENT BY THE BISHOP OF CUBA. - -_Sire_: - -With regard to the Royal Cedula of the present January 3rd in which your -Royal Highness advises me to assist, care for, and aid the Catholic -Minorcan families established in the English Territory of Florida, in -accord with the Governor of the Post, I have given the interlocutory -decree comprehended in the testimony which I remit to your Majesty for -your sovereign approval. - -May God preserve your Majesty for many years. - -SANTIAGO JOSE, Bishop of Cuba. - -Havana, June 30th, 1773. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI. - -A. D. 1773-1786. - - _Letter from the King to the Bishop of Cuba concerning the petition - soliciting an extension of time and the privileges conceded to Dr. - Pedro Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, Parochial Priest and - Vicar of Catholic families of Minorca in Florida--Enclosing an open - mandate of his Holiness enlarging and extending the time for twenty - years, Madrid, 1773--A copy of a letter and statement sent in by - Lieutenant of Hibernians, Don Nicholas Grenier, in regard to the - importance of the St. Johns and St. Marys river Provinces, stating - the need to his Majesty of vessels armed to impress and control - these Provinces which are rich in timber, turpentine, pitch and - tar--Considers it detrimental to Spanish interests for Americans to - introduce any commerce in those Provinces--Letter for the - Captain-General of Florida to the Governor of the post of St. - Augustine concerning the great necessity of further protecting the - Spanish interests along the St. Marys and St. Johns - rivers--Tranquility of the country jeopardized by outlaws--Some - have been arrested and paid the penalty with their lives--Matter - referred to the Governor, 1774._ - - -THE KING TO THE REV. FATHER IN CHRIST, BISHOP OF THE HOLY CHURCH, -CATHEDRAL OF SANTIAGO DE CUBA. - -In a letter of August 29th, 1771, I am informed by Don Lamas Acpuro, -Archbishop, who was of Valencia and my Minister to the Court of Rome, -that in virtue of a warning from the Marquez of Grimalde in a letter of -July 23rd, he had formed the corresponding petition soliciting an -extension of time of the privileges conceded to Dr. Pedro Campos and -Padre Bartolome Casanovas, Parochial Priest and Vicar of the Catholic -families of Minorca, who went to establish themselves in the English -territory of Florida, asking also that his Holiness accord to these -Ecclesiastics and their successors the other graces and privileges -needed to administer to the spiritual nourishment of their flocks--and -having deemed it desirable to transmit them through Monseñor Zelada of -whom they had also availed themselves to investigate the truth of these -privileges, being one of the Prelates who served in the Tribunal of the -Holy Office. He immediately complied with the petition in consequence of -having sent it to his Holiness at the instigation of Monseñor Antonelli, -assistant of the same Tribunal, who spoke to his Holiness in audience, -using his favorable influence with the result shown in his letter to -Monseñor Zelada of August 24th, informing him that his Holiness extended -these privileges to twenty years--asking if he had complied with the -balance of the communication for greater privileges and followed the -instructions mentioned in the open mandate. He replied asking if he -would pass on to solicit in the practical way which was proper, and -hoping it would deserve my approbation. Having seen the referred to -document with my Council of the Indias, represented by Marquis de la -Torre, Governor and Captain-General of that Island, by letter dated -December 4th, 1771, concerning what you had done in consequence of the -warning given you in the affair of the aforementioned families, -explained by my Judge, and consulted me regarding it about the last of -December past. I have resolved (among other things) to send the -aforementioned open Mandate which has been obtained from his Holiness to -certify to you the enlargement and extension of time granted the -aforesaid Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas and charging you (as I do) to -use all means that are proper for your Pastoral Ministry and those of -his Holiness, it has latterly been conceded you--having present by -Chapter 28 of the Mandate, you can communicate it to all the Priests -whom it may effect, and as the notice given you by the referred to Royal -Cedula of August 16th, 1771, you will attend to and aid spiritually all -the Catholics of Florida, this being my will. - -THE KING. - -Madrid, August 4th, 1773. - - * * * * * - -_Excellent Sire_: - -I enclose you a copy of a letter and statement which by my order was -sent in by Lieutenant of Hibernians Don Nicholas Grenier, upon his -return from the River St. Mary’s where since my arrival I have placed -him rather as a Commissioned than a detached Officer, as I have before -notified your Majesty, because it has seemed to me that is the most -important place in this Province as no doubt it will be in the future, -on account of its fine and accessible Bar, the abundance of magnificent -timber, the thorough knowledge the English have of the river, the -scarcity of this nation for building material would be a stimulus to the -Bahamas as well as to Satavento and Barlovento, that in future they -should be supplied from them. In a previous report I stated to your -Majesty the necessity I felt for two vessels for said river and the St. -John’s, but today I consider it my duty to make known to your Majesty -the great need we have of vessels, and would ask that you send a -Man-of-war with some schooners, launches and boats around as reserve -guards, not only for the St. Mary’s, but the St. John’s also, where the -Bar, although not as many feet deep as the St. Mary’s, is better and its -waters are navigable for larger vessels thirty leagues up the river, and -its banks abound in magnificent timber, especially the pine, from which -the English have taken many millions of barrels of turpentine, pitch and -tar. I also consider it important to have the armed vessels to secure -the tranquility of this Country and put a restraint upon the many -disturbers of peace who not knowing where to go and wishing to remain in -the Province refused to be subjected to Government or laws of any kind. -It is certain that in such cases a few armed vessels would make more -impression than two regiments since the swamps and woods make it almost -impossible for them to operate. The twenty-five Dragoons I now have are -not sufficient to maintain my orders with the proper authority, -therefore I fear to issue orders not to compromise the dignity of this -Government. My only resource and hope is that your Majesty will place me -in a position where, when occasion demands, I can act with the proper -spirit and decorum. God preserve you for many years. - -St. Augustine, November 12th, 1784. - - -COPY OF LETTER OF COMMANDANT OF DETACHED BODY OF TROOPS ON THE ST. -MARY’S RIVER TO THE GOVERNOR OF FLORIDA. - -_My Dear Sir_: - -Acting upon the order imposed upon me by His Majesty, when I presented -myself for resignation of the commission under my charge on the river -St. Mary’s. I enclose adjusted a report stating as far as my ability -allows all that I have observed and consider worthy of your notice. God -preserve you many years. - -NICOLAS GRENIER. - - -STATEMENT. - -The Bar of St. Mary’s, so called, although its true name is Bar of -Amelia, is considered one of the best and least dangerous of the America -Septentrional. Vessels of 500 tons can enter. On either side are -Islands. The one on the right is called Cumberland, belonging to the -Americans; it is sparsely inhabited, exceedingly fertile in timber, as -American vessels come to cut it. The one on the left is called Amelia, -its land is considered very fertile, producing pine, cedar and oak in -abundance. Its inhabitants number some twenty families; these people -belong as much to one Island as the other, being variable and erratic in -their habits. The distance between Amelia and Cumberland, which forms -the channel where all vessels going up the St. Mary’s are obliged to -pass, is more or less--miles. For this reason a Fort or Castle at the -northern extremity of Amelia would be of the greatest advantage. The -channel formed by these Islands is at the mouth of the river. In front -of these Islands is a third one called Tiger, entirely depopulated, as -it is sterile, full of swamps and lakes so that no advantage can be -derived from it. From the anchoring grounds of Amelia to the entrance of -St. Mary’s river is a distance of one and a half miles and the River is -navigable for forty miles. At the mouth of said River there is a place -called by the English New Town or Princetown which was selected for -building a City, but the work was never carried out. The number of -outlaws between the towns of St. John’s and St. Mary’s is about sixty -families. Among them some might be useful to our Nation, but the others -the sooner we drive them out of the Province the better, as they are men -who have neither God nor law, and men who are capable of the greatest -atrocities. There is another River further in where vessels can navigate -for several miles, but it requires an experienced pilot, on account of -the numerous sand banks and small streams and the most experienced are -frequently deceived. There are four or five other small Islands. The -Talbot, St. George, Doctor and the Pierce, all these Islands, although -in themselves small, are of much value for their beautiful pines, cedars -and oaks. I consider it detrimental to our interests that the Americans -introduce any commerce in this Province, and at the same time I believe -the best way to prevent it would be to establish a fleet. These Islands -produce timber to build the vessels. - -NICOLAS GRENIER. - -St. Augustine, Fla., Nov. 10th, 1784. - - -1786. - -LETTER FOR THE CAPTAIN-GENERAL OF FLORIDA TO THE GOVERNOR OF THE POST OF -ST. AUGUSTINE. - -Don Vicente Manuel de Cespedes gave an account in three letters directed -to your Excellency that Don Nicolas Grenier, who commanded the detached -company on the River St. Mary’s, stated the urgency and necessity of -protecting that post for the advantages which would accrue from it to -the Royal service, and tranquility of the Country. The inhabitants have -openly declared against us, but conceal themselves in wilderness on the -banks of the St. John’s as far as St. Mary’s controlling that Province. -He warned the English Governor Don Patrick Louin to prosecute the -perfidity of such men, if he would secure a peaceful Government. The -opinion he had formed of them was afterwards confirmed by the frequent -thefts and deprivation, it could not be remedied for the want of aid. -Under such circumstances I judge it better to wait and allow them to -leave and then vigorously oppose their re-entering the Province. At -present, the beginning of the year 1785, we find ourselves free from -many of the principal leaders of them, who went over to Pensacola and -other English settlements and to the United States, where some have paid -the penalty of their misdeeds with their lives. The Señor Louin seemed -to think the time had arrived when they should be prosecuted, and so he -sent to arrest one of the outlaws, Daniel Mc----, in the name of Great -Britain. Candido Salteador and Guillermo Cunningham are even worse than -the others, being constant receivers of stolen goods. He afterwards gave -them their liberty under bond that they should leave the Province with -the tide, using the launch San Pedro to convey them, he made them take -oath never to re-enter the Province nor surrounding country. We are to -consult with Providence as to what steps must be taken with Cunningham’s -wife and children. The reports having been examined by the Council of -Indians, they have decided to take no steps at present, the King -agreeing to the proposition, and his Majesty commands me to return your -Excellency the above referred reports and testimonials, that as -Captain-General of the Province of St. Augustine, is to proceed in the -case, as your Excellency, under the circumstances, should determine in -things of weight as well as in minor affairs, as behooves a Governor of -Florida. Render a just account of the results, and of the Royal Order. I -warn your Excellency that you fulfill it. - -God preserve you for many years. - -SEÑOR. - -Madrid, December 5th, 1786. - - * * * * * - - - Typographical errors corrected by the etext transcriber: - - Jaun=> Juan {multiple times} - - Jaun Cebadillo=> Juan Cebadilla - - Juan Cebadillo=> Juan Cebadilla - - take Jaques de Soria=> take Jacques de Soria {pg 7} - - Fernando Mirando=> Fernando Miranda {pg 27} - - Notary Public Juan Ximanes=> Notary Public Juan Ximenes {pg viii} - - Fray Blas DeMontes=> Fray Blas De Montes {pg viii} - - day of the Anethema=> day of the Anathema {pg 93} - - Don Diego de Rolallado=> Don Diego de Rebolledo {pg 98} - - Diego Robelledo=> Diego Rebolledo {pg x, 96, 105} - - retard the convertion=> retard the conversion {pg x} - - Alonzo Aranqui y Cartez=> Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez {pg x} - - Report of Fernando Mirando, agent to the King=> Report of Fernando - Miranda, agent to the King {pg vii} - - Notary Public Juan Ximanes=> Notary Public Juan Ximenes {pg viii} - - Juan Ximanes, a Notary Public and secretary=> Juan Ximenes, a Notary - Public and secretary {pg 34} - - Nothwithstanding all the above=> Notwithstanding all the above {pg 36} - - he saw what sucess=> he saw what success {pg 38} - - go to the Monastary=> go to the Monastery {pg 38} - - they proceed to feret=> they proceed to ferret {pg 78} - - three hudred=> three hundred {pg 89} - - Senor => Señor {x10} - - Monsenor=> Monseñor {x4 } - - such exhorbitant=> such exorbitant {pg 100} - - large quanitity=> large quantity {pg 100} - - Francisco De La Guerre y Vega concerning=> Francisco De La Guerra y - Vega concerning {pg xi} - - Francisco Guerray Vega reports=> Francisco Guerra y Vega reports {pg - 107} - - Jaun Marquez Cabera, Governor and Captain-General of Florida=> Juan - Marquez Cabrera, Governor and Captain-General of Florida {pg xii} - - The King reprimands Don Diego Quiraga=> The King reprimands Don Diego - Quiroga {pg xii} - - Don-Diego Quiroba y Losada=> Don Diego Quiroga y Losada {pg xii} - - Augustine by Governor Don Diego Guiroga y Losada=> Augustine by - Governor Don Diego Quiroga y Losada {pg xii, xiii} - - His illtreatment of a Captain=> His ill treatment of a Captain {pg - xiii} - - Francisco Carcoles y Martinez=> Francisco Córcoles y Martinez {pg xiii} - - Francisco Carcales y Martinez=> Francisco Córcoles y Martinez {pg xiv} - - Appalachicola=> Apalachicola {pg xiii. 97, 164} - - Corcoles=> Córcoles {x4} - - so they many not vex the natives=> so they may not vex the natives {pg - 5} - - them a canonade and=> them a cannonade and {pg 5} - - the keys of Canavarel=> the keys of Canaveral {pg 23} - - Diego Fernandez de Guinones, in Havana=> Diego Fernandez de Quinones, - in Havana {pg 31} - - Having been imformed=> Having been informed {pg 102} - - which to accummulate=> which to accumulate {pg 126} - - ocupying a passage=> occupying a passage {pg 130} - - send me reenforcements=> send me re-enforcements {pg 145} - - Diego Guiroba y Losada=> Diego Quiroba y Losada {pg 151} - - He proposed the the=> He proposed the {pg 153} - - Antonio Bienavidos=> Antonio Bienavides {pg 160, 170, 171, 173} - - Antonio Bienavides=> Antonio Benavides {pg 164, 173} - - Governor of St. Augutine=> Governor of St. Augustine {pg 177} - - they were drillng=> they were drilling {pg 179} - - they are cuttng=> they are cutting {pg 185} - - available to investige=> available to investigate {pg 196} - - Fray Casanova=> Fray Casanovas {pg 194, } - - Father Bartolome Casanova=> Father Bartolome Casanovas {pg 204, 205, - 212} - - Fray Casanova=> Fray Casanovas {pg 193, 194, } - - Don Bartolome Casanova=> Don Bartolome Casanovas {pg 196, 197} - - Father Casanova=> Father Casanovas {pg 206, 207, 208} - - From all this results=> From all this result {pg 208} - - St. Marys River to the Governor=> St. Mary's River to the Governor {pg - 230} - - the America Septentional=> the America Septentrional {pg 230} - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The unwritten history of old St. -Augustine, by Various - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE UNWRITTEN HISTORY *** - -***** This file should be named 54804-0.txt or 54804-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/4/8/0/54804/ - -Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images available at The Internet Archive) - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license - - -Title: The unwritten history of old St. Augustine - -Author: Various - -Editor: A. M. Brooks - -Translator: Annie Averette - -Release Date: May 28, 2017 [EBook #54804] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE UNWRITTEN HISTORY *** - - - - -Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images available at The Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - -<hr class="full" /> - -<p class="figcenter"> -<img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="[Image of the cover unavailable.]" /> -</p> - -<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="" -style="border: 2px black solid;margin:auto auto;max-width:50%; -padding:1%;"> -<tr><td> - -<p class="c"><a href="#CONTENTS">Contents.</a></p> -<p class="c"> -An attempt has been made to correct the myriad typographical errors and -mis-spellings -of persons’ names. <a href="#transcrib">A list follows the text</a>.</p> - -<p class="c">(etext transcriber's note)</p></td></tr> -</table> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<a href="images/frontispiece_lg.jpg"> -<img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" width="500" height="356" alt="Image -unavailable: Founding of St. Augustine By Pedro Menendez, September 8, -1565." /></a> -<br /> -<span class="caption">Founding of St. Augustine By Pedro Menendez, September 8, -1565.</span> -</div> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<img src="images/decoration.png" alt="[Image -of text decoration unavailable.]" /> -</div> - -<h1> -THE<br /> -UNWRITTEN<br /> -H I S T O R Y <i>of</i><br /> -<span class="eng"><big>Old St. Augustine</big></span></h1> -<p class="cb"> -Copied from the Spanish Archives<br /> -in Seville, Spain, by Miss<br /> -A. M. Brooks and<br /> -Translated<br /> -by<br /> -Mrs. Annie Averette<br /> -</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<img src="images/decoration.png" alt="[Image -of text decoration unavailable.]" /> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_iv" id="page_iv"></a>{iv}</span><a name="page_v" id="page_v"></a></p> - -<h2><a name="PREFACE" id="PREFACE"></a>PREFACE</h2> - -<p>We take pleasure in presenting to our readers information connected with -St. Augustine never before published. It is composed largely of reports -and letters to the King of Spain, much of it written by Pedro Menendez -himself, and contains decrees and letters from the King to the Governor, -Generals and Officers having charge of the Florida Provinces. It has -been buried for over three centuries, in Seville, Spain. It is reliable, -having been written in old Spanish and guarded with care. It contains -facts for which many have sought in vain. The style in which it is -written is clear and comprehensive, without being diffuse or overdrawn. -It is the true history of our country.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_vi" id="page_vi"></a>{vi}</span><a name="page_vii" id="page_vii"></a></p> - -<h2><a name="CONTENTS" id="CONTENTS"></a>CONTENTS</h2> - -<table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" summary="" -style="margin:auto auto;max-width:85%;"> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">Chapter I</a></span>—A. D. 1565</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_1">1</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Royal Decree from King Philip II in reference to further discovery -and settlement of Florida—Officers and number of -men appointed to go in the Armada—Reports from the Armada -after leaving—Report from Pedro Menendez to his -Majesty—The English and French have already settled here—Necessity -of Spaniards taking entire control—Letter from the -King to Pedro Menendez—Tells of English and French vessels -reported to have sailed for these Provinces—King sends -Fleet with sailors, soldiers and supplies that the person of -Pedro Menendez may be guarded properly as Governor and -Captain General of the Province of Florida.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_II">Chapter II</a></span>—A. D. 1565</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_13">13</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Pedro Menendez gives an account to his Majesty of the Fort -Matanzas Massacre—Menendez and army escape from being -made prisoners by the French on account of a tornado—Because -of the swollen river the Council agree to make a land -attack—Spaniards surprise and take Fort Matanzas without -loss of a single man—Killing over two hundred Frenchmen -and capturing Laudonnier—Find Indians enchanted with the -Lutherans—Shipwrecked Frenchmen found on coast—With -hands tied behind them are stabbed in the back by Spaniards.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_III">Chapter III</a></span>—A. D. 1598</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_27">27</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Report of Fernando Miranda, agent to the King, complains -of Governor—Espionage over vessels—Gives account of work -of negroes—Houses and churches built, land cleared—Soldiers -assist in repairing Fort—Report of Bartolome De Arguellas—Capture -of rebellious Indians—Sending some to Havana to be -hanged, some to be imprisoned—Casiques render obedience -to the Governor who assures them of his good intentions—Pedro -Pertrene reports to the King of being newly appointed -to be Captain of a Garrison in Florida—Insufficiency of salary -to meet expenses—Because of long service to his Majesty -implores aid and satisfaction—Dona Maria Menendez, -Casique, writes the King asking aid in meeting the expenses -of instructing the Indians in Christianity and good government.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_viii" id="page_viii"></a>{viii}</span></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">Chapter IV</a></span>—A. D. 1598</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_34">34</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Extract from official report made by Gonzales Menendez -Canso, Governor and Captain-General—Six priests of the San -Franciscan order murdered by Indians—Lieutenant Eciga -sent to see if any of the priests are still living—Hears of -one—Is refused permission to see him—After much persuasion -and many threats Friar Fray Francisco is delivered—Manner -of the death of the others is investigated—Fray -Francisco makes a statement in regard to the death of the -other priests, is forbidden by the Canons of the Church to -reveal all—Notary Public Juan Ximenes swears to the investigation -of several Indians through an interpreter—Execution -of Indian Lucas as participating in the murder of Fray Blas.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_V">Chapter V</a></span>—A. D. 1600</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_49">49</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Letter from one of eleven monks sent out by his Majesty to -spread the gospel—Report eighty churches in different Missions—Indians -lazy and improvident—Avarice of Governor -causes dissatisfaction—People desire his immediate removal—Fray -Lopez, a Missionary, has converted many Indians in -twelve years of service, among them Don Juan, a Casique, -who stands highly among his people—His influence quells -many uprisings—Juan Nunez Rios complains of Governor in -a letter to the King—Begs for an open Port that the people -may go back and forth and trade—An officer asks to be -allowed to serve his Majesty elsewhere—Fray Blas De Montes -implores that he may be allowed to come to Spain for retirement—Gives -account of a fire which burned the church among -other houses—Slow progress among the Indians—Advices -that a Bishop be sent—Report of Gonzales Menendez Canso -to his Majesty—A shipmaster bearing dispatches shipwrecked -in storm—Governor aids him from the Royal Treasury—Auditor -from his Majesty arrives—Reports the Garrison -abounding in fruits and grain—Grieves over the death of the -Christian Indian Don Juan—Return of Fray Lopez from New -Spain in good health—Reports the money brought to establish -a hospital—More money needed for Garrison expenses—Francisco -Redondo Villegas, Officer of Customs, is not treated -with the respect due his Royal Office by the Governor—Reports -affairs in a muddled condition—Soldiers well drilled—Much -land under cultivation—Wages small—Rations insufficient.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">Chapter VI</a></span>—A. D. 1605-1608</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_67">67</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Minutes of a Bull or Bill of Supplication to be presented to -the Holy See asking for concession of graces and powers for -Catholic residents in Florida—Minorcan families brought -priest and monk with them—Wish new privileges and graces<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_ix" id="page_ix"></a>{ix}</span> -granted—In regard to a Cedula from his Majesty, which instructs -as to duties on wine—Priests and Monks of Tasco -use Municipal monies for their own interests—Advises a -change in the office of Treasurer of the Royal Chest—Vessels -carry important papers for his Majesty lost—Favors -shown to Don Francisco gratifies the people—Letter from -Pedro Ibarra to his Majesty says there is not sufficient support -for the Garrison—Solicits aid for a poor widow—Soldiers -find amber in a fish, for which Menendez exacts a duty—French -and English pirates cause much anxiety—A few captured, -some imprisoned and ten hanged—Visiting Indian chiefs -so impressed with the religious services and processions that -they ask for friars to instruct their people—Asks for assistance -in building a fort at the mouth of Miguel Moro—Endeavors -to find the source of river San Mateo and Lake -Miami—A garrison of warlike people—Proposition to establish -a Manager of the Inquisition to subjugate and control -them—Does not wish to let certain priest and captain—Report -of Juan Menendez Marquez—Deplores the decision to reduce -the garrison—Advises a return to the policy of Pedro Menendez, -his cousin—Desires permission to come to Spain to -more fully lay the condition before his Majesty.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">Chapter VII</a></span>—A. D. 1622-1640</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_82">82</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Report of Antonio Benavides to his Majesty—The Spanish -King instructs the establishment of friendly relations with the -English of the Carolinas—Don Francisco Menendez with -other officers sent out—Mission fails owing to the English -not having yet received instructions from London—Requested -the removal of an English fort built on Spanish territory—Refusal—The -matter fully laid before his Majesty—Report -of Luis De Rojas—A Frigate sent out to assist a fleet in -bringing supplies, run down by an enemy, boat stripped and -burned, soldiers and crew escape to shore and finally reach -the garrison—They collect Indians and soldiers and return—The -enemy take to their launches and escape—Forty-seven -persons only saved from a Spanish Fleet which had been -captured by a Dutch Fleet—Recommends that his Majesty -build a fort at the bar of the place called Jega—Report of -Luis Ussitinez to his Majesty—The Mandate of the King -carried out for prayer to Almighty God for the success of -the King’s arms taken up against France—At a meeting of -the Board of the City Council of Havana appears a clergyman -of the Holy Office of the Inquisition with an Auto from -the Señor Comissionado, Don Francisco de las Casas, containing -instructions as to certain ceremonies in connection -with the Inquisition.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">Chapter VIII</a></span>—A. D. 1655-1657</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_96">96</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">An anonymous letter to his Majesty—Death of Governor -Benito Ruid Salazer—Two others appointed to serve <i>pro -tem.</i> die suddenly of a contagious disease—Certain related -officials gather in the night and elect Don Pedro Ruitinez -Governor—A distressing condition follows—The people’s -money squandered—Officials intimidated and abused—Material -sent for repairing Fort used to barter with the Indians -for amber and the money used by the Governor and Treasurer—Consults -his own pleasure as to obedience to church laws -and vows—A report from Diego Rebolledo, 1657, as to the -necessity of guarding the Ports of the Province owing to pirates -and as a prevention from the enemy entering and entrenching -themselves in some of the distant but rich Provinces—The -Friars object to the fortifications as the Spaniards would retard -the conversion of the Indians—The Governor thinks the -real reason is, that because of the present condition the Friars -are the masters of the Indians—A Friar reports to his Majesty -that owing to the Governor insisting upon some Indian -chiefs carrying heavy burdens of corn, when there were vassals -for such labor—The chiefs cause an uprising—They -march into the Garrison and hang the Governor—The Island -of Jamaica heavily fortified by the English who intend taking -Cuba, so it is rumored.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">Chapter IX</a></span>—A. D. 1662-1670</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_107">107</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez reports the auditing of accounts and -condition of the Royal Treasury—Finding of large nuggets -in a hill, supposed to be a silver mine—Goes to investigate—Report -of Juan Cebadilla to his Majesty of having sent out -the King’s orders concerning who shall keep the keys of the -Royal chest—Administration of the negroes—Harshness -shown the Royal employees—Francisco Guerra Vega reports -a Captain of the Garrison for indecency and offense to his -superiors, for which same he was reprimanded and imprisoned -as a warning—Afterward given his liberty—The King -to the Captain-General of Provinces of Florida—Instructions -as to the continuance of the passage to Marcana Guale—Founding -of the town of Santiago—As to the performance of -certain duties by soldiers, for which money shall be paid—Soldiers -shall be permitted to raise their crops, and not employed -in personal work for the Governor—The Governor -shall look after the wants and needs of his people—By order -of the King, 1670.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_X">Chapter X</a></span>—A. D. 1671-1673</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_112">112</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Pedro Menendez received the title of Governor by right of -conquest, and Captain-General and Commander of the Fleet<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_xi" id="page_xi"></a>{xi}</span> -by conference of his Majesty for faithful, valorous service—Don -Martin Menendez receives the title of perpetual Governor -by right of inheritance—Important papers burned at -Simancas—Manuel De Mendoza reports to his Majesty as to -the designs of the English enemy—Discovery of the South -Sea—Condition of this Garrison and other Provinces—Implores -aid in completing fortifications—Report to his Majesty -by Francisco De La Guerra y Vega concerning an Englishman -taken prisoner in the Province of Guale—One of a crew -sent out from a settlement of English at St. Elena—This man -who was second in authority was confined in prison on -soldiers’ rations—An effort made to break up the English -settlement, which was unsuccessful.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">Chapter XI</a></span>—A. D. 1675</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_121">121</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Letters to the King from the Governor Pablo Ita Salazer—Oath -of office administered in the tower of the old Fort which -is rapidly going into ruins—The Garrison needing supplies -and ammunition—No warehouses, and owing to the distance -and frequency of storms delaying supplies, the people are -forced to hunt in the woods for roots to appease their hunger—The -Fort in danger from pirates—Ammunition and guards -exposed to the fatalities of the weather—Pleads for more -money to complete the Castle—Its great importance—A pentagonal -shape recommended—The Viceroy of Spain fails to -send the ten thousand dollars—One hundred men needed to -guard the Castle—Great danger from pirates—Two hundred -leagues from Havana and five hundred from New Spain.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">Chapter XII</a></span>—A. D. 1675</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_130">130</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">An effort made to dislodge the English from Santa Elena—Governor -ordered to complete the Castle and defense of the -Garrison—Yucatan families—Master weavers asked for to -settle in Florida—Appalache considered the best Province for -settlement—Supplies sent from New Spain—Barracks to be -made in the Fort for the soldiers—Money sent to finish the -new Castle, also supplies for the soldiers—The neighbors to -assist in building the new Castle—Repairs on the bulwarks -of Guale—Increase of troops for St. Augustine—A fortress -ordered built at Appalache.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">Chapter XIII</a></span>—A. D. 1680-1685</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_136">136</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Letter from Pablo Ita Salazer to his Majesty—Indians of the -Province of Guale declare themselves friendly to the English, -and make war upon the Spaniards of the Island of St. Catherine—They -surprise the six sentinels, killing all but one who -escaped and gave warning—The people gather in the convent -of a Friar and defend themselves from day light until four<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_xii" id="page_xii"></a>{xii}</span> -o’clock, when aid reaches them from the Garrison of St. Augustine, -whereupon the enemy retires—The natives of the -Island greatly alarmed—Disquieting news of the intentions -of the enemy upon this Garrison—Implores aid from the King -quickly, that the English may be ejected from the land—Don -Juan Marquez Cabrera, Governor and Captain-General of -Florida—Gives account to his Majesty of hostilities in the -Provinces—Two Fleets, French and English, going and coming -from Havana—Seize Fort Matanzas and, after plundering, -burn it to the ground—Is now being rebuilt—Great depredations -committed up and down the coast by the enemy—Pushing -the work on the Castle—Grieved over its slow progress, -owing to lack of workmen—Begs to be allowed to retire because -of age and long service—To Charles II, our principal -Casique, the King—From the people of the territory of -Habalache—The King to the Governor and Captain-General -of Florida—Concerning ten negroes from St. George, who -asked for the water of baptism—A Sergeant-Major from St. -George comes to claim them—Because they have become -Christians the Spanish King decides to buy them—After -receiving a receipt they are to be set at liberty, each one given -a document to that effect—The King reprimands Don Diego -Quiroga for not attending to these matters—Orders a full -account to be sent as soon as it is accomplished.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">Chapter XIV</a></span>—A. D. 1689-1698</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_147">147</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Letter of the Governor and Captain-General of Florida, Don Diego -Quiroga y Losada, to his Majesty—Giving an account -of a custom obtaining in the Garrison which endangers the -safety of the people—When the Host is taken out in the night -to administer communion to the dying the bells are rung until -its return which is often hours, thus preventing the hearing -the firing of the sentries across the river who are instructed -to fire as often as there are numbers of vessels sighted—This -danger fully laid before the Priest, who refused to discontinue -the ringing of the bells, notwithstanding the city has been -in arms awaiting the enemy for some days—In a Cedula by -his Majesty of July 18th, 1674, he asks for a statement concerning -the order and place of the Holy Tribunal of the -Inquisition—These questions answered by Severino Mausaneda -March 17th, 1690—An account of a military review in -St. Augustine by Governor Don Diego Quiroga y Losada—Also -recounts the great advantage to the City by building a -sea wall to extend from the Fort the entire length of the City -thus securing it against the sea which at present comes up -to the houses during a storm—The soldiers and citizens subscribe -ten thousand dollars, and the King is petitioned for aid -that the citizens seeing his Majesty’s interest will be encouraged -to proceed—The King rebukes Governor Don Diego<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_xiii" id="page_xiii"></a>{xiii}</span> -Quiroga y Losada of the city of St. Augustine for unjustly -taxing the Indians—Misappropriating funds sent by agreement -for canvas and provisions for them—Not attending to -their wants and comfort and treating them alone as vassals—Extracts -from the investigations of the Council as to alleged -excesses committed by the Governor Don Francisco Moral -Sanchez—His ill treatment of a Captain of Grenadiers—Acting -according to his own will and not to military law—The Governor’s -removal desired—A report according to the King’s -command concerning affairs under Governor Don Francisco -Morales Sanchez—Investigation shows that the facts set forth -in the different papers and petitions sent to his Majesty to -have been only too true—Impossible to put upon paper the -strange, divers and extraordinary excesses committed by this -Governor—The abuses sufficient to chill the soul and congeal -the blood.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XV">Chapter XV</a></span>—A. D. 1708-1723</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_163">163</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Francisco Córcoles y Martinez in a letter to his Majesty reports -all possible measures taken to prevent the destroying of -this Province—Indians from the villages bordering on the -Carolinas, aided by the English, each day carry off certain -families, Christians and natives, more than ten thousand -having been carried off to date—Probably sold into slavery—A -Treaty urged with the English of the Carolinas, else there -will be a continuance of hostilities and the spread of the -Gospel impeded—In a second letter the Governor gives an -account of certain Friars in a dispute with the Priest of the -Parish concerning the rights to marry soldiers, Spaniards, -Indians and half-breeds—The matter laid before the Governor, -who in turn refers it to his Majesty—Recommends the -abolishing of all Heathen customs—By a Royal dispatch, -A. D. 1721, the Governor of Florida is commanded to go in -person to the Governor of the Carolinas and arrange with -him a Treaty of Peace between the English and Spanish of -those Provinces adjoining—Which same was carried out as -far as possible—Trinkets and clothing sent to the Casiques -and chiefs of Apalachicola as commanded—Indians restless -making preparations for war—English spreading dissatisfaction—A -Council of war decides to send a vessel to Havana to -the Governor asking for men, arms and provisions.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">Chapter XVI</a></span>—A. D. 1736-1739</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_174">174</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Governor Señor Montiano in a letter to his Majesty says: It -is reported that Don Diego Oglethorpe has said openly “that -should he receive orders from his Government to fix the -boundary lines between the Spanish possessions and the Carolinas, -he would so delay its execution that there should never -be a sign of these limits”—Montiano thinks “it will be impossible<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_xiv" id="page_xiv"></a>{xiv}</span> -to ever discuss matters of importance with such a man -and it will be best that he be removed”—An Indian, Juan -Ygnacio de las Reyes, gives himself up to the English, under -pretext of having killed an Indian, to gain information concerning -the strength and intentions of the English toward the -Spanish—After misleading the English as to the strength -and numbers in the Spanish fortifications, he makes his escape -and returns to this Province—Statement of what has been -ordered for the aid of Florida Provinces—The dislodging of -the enemy from certain settlements on its territory up to 1674—Dispatch -of 1675 commands that if the negro slaves sent to -Havana have not already been sold, they shall be sent to -Florida to be put to work upon the construction of the Castle -to relieve the Indians.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">Chapter XVII</a></span>—A. D. 1741-1743</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_185">185</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">A letter from the Governor Francisco Córcoles y Martinez—Conduct -of the Christians worse than the Heathen—Soldiers -guarded while cutting timber to repair the Fort—The Castle -in a tumble-down condition—The Garrison to be maintained -for the propagation of the Holy Gospel and to shelter the -workers of the Apostolic faith—A paper of representation to -his Majesty concerning certain properties willed to the Royal -Treasury by Don Francisco Menendez, and designated by -the King for use as hospitals—The Royal Officers of the -Province think these properties should be sold at auction, and -the proceeds applied to the back pay of soldiers who are -suffering and in need.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">Chapter XVIII</a></span>—A. D. 1770-1771</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_191">191</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">A letter of resolution to his Majesty concerning a letter of -appeal made to the Governor and Bishop of Havana asking -for patent and Holy oil to administer baptism and extreme -unction to the Catholic families taken from the Island of -Minorca by the English—These families bringing with them -Don Pedro Campos, Doctor of Sacred Theology, as a Parish -Priest, and Don Bartolome Casanovas of the St. Augustine -order as Vicar—These same claiming to have received their -appointment from the Supreme Pontificate, not knowing to -which Bishop the jurisdiction of Florida belonged—In order -that a thorough investigation may be made the whole matter -was referred to his Majesty—Letter of the Archbishop of -Valencia concerning this matter—Letter of the Bishop of -Cuba to his Majesty, expressing gratification over the zeal of -his Majesty in this matter—Advices that the privileges be -conferred—Letter of the Bishop of Minorca giving information -concerning same.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_xv" id="page_xv"></a>{xv}</span></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">Chapter XIX</a></span>—A. D. 1771</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_204">204</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">The opinion of the Judge—Having examined the different -letters from the Bishop and made a thorough investigation -into the matter concerning the granting of certain privileges -to these Priests of the Minorcan families of the English -colony of Florida, decides that these privileges should be -granted as per reasons set forth in his written opinion, -Madrid, 1771—Bishop of Cuba for the Council to Dr. Don -Pedro Campos and the Rev. Father Bartolome Casanovas, -extending to these same Priests the title of Parish Priest -and Vicar—Also sending a box containing three flasks of -sacred oil—Hopes soon to be able to send a more extended -prorogation of other powers—King solicited these powers -from the Court of Rome—Asks for a detailed report of the -number of families and condition of the congregation.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XX">Chapter XX</a></span>—A. D. 1773</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_214">214</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Proceedings of the Council at the Court of Rome concerning -the appeal made by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the -Catholic families established in the English colony of Florida—The -different Bishops’ letters—Also those of the Priest -and Vicar asking for patent and further privileges and containing -a report of the condition of the said Minorcan families -who are dissatisfied with the lack of spiritual comforts—A -brick church, and are very devout—Of their desire to throw -off the yoke of Great Britain and their love for Spain—Reply -of the Judge—Testimony sent by the Bishop of Cuba.</td></tr> - -<tr><td class="indd"><span class="smcap"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">Chapter XXI</a></span>—A. D. 1773-1786</td><td class="rt" valign="bottom"><a href="#page_226">226</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="nind" colspan="2">Letter from the King to the Bishop of Cuba concerning the -petition soliciting an extension of time and of the privileges -for the Priest and Vicar of the Minorcan families in Florida, -and enclosing an open mandate of His Holiness, enlarging -and extending the time for twenty years—A copy of a letter -and statement sent in by Lieutenant Don Nicolas Grenier in -regard to the importance of the Provinces of the St. Marys -and St. Johns rivers—The need of vessels to impress and -control the inhabitants—Provinces rich in timber, turpentine, -tar and pitch—Considers it detrimental to Spanish interests -for Americans to introduce any commerce in the Provinces—Letter -from the same Don Nicolas Grenier to the Governor -urging the necessity of further protecting Spanish interests -along the St. Marys and St. Johns rivers—Tranquility of the -country jeopardized by outlaws—Some have been arrested -and paid the penalty with their lives—Matter referred to the -Governor—1774.</td></tr> -</table> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_xvi" id="page_xvi"></a>{xvi}</span> </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_1" id="page_1"></a>{1}</span> </p> - -<h1>The Unwritten History<br /> - -<i>of</i> Old St. Augustine</h1> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1565.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Royal Decree of King Philip II in regard to the further discovery -and settlement of Florida—Officers appointed—Number of men to go -in the Armada—Captains and men to be paid in advance, to increase -diligence in service—Reports from the Armada after leaving—Pedro -Menendez reports that the English and French have already settled -here—Necessity of the Spaniards taking entire control of the -country—Letter from the King to Pedro Menendez in regard to -English and French settlers.</i> </p></div> - -<h3>ROYAL DECREE.</h3> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The King.</span></h3> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>To our officers who reside in the City of Sevilla in charge of the -India contracts</i>: </p></div> - -<p>I have named the captains, as you will see, from the description shown -by General Eraso, that they may enlist the 1400 men who are to go to -Florida in the Armada which we have ordered equipped, instructing them -immediately upon their arrival what they are to do, and notify me of -their safe arrival. You must be immediately notified when the men are -gathered together, and as it is expedient with each captain, you<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_2" id="page_2"></a>{2}</span> are to -send a responsible person that he may pay each man one month’s salary in -advance from the treasury on the day he enlists. It will cost, we -suppose, upwards of 11,000 ducats, that they may go provided according -to instructions received. You are to give each captain a copy of the -order sent, that he may be sure of his men—who, receiving this aid, -neither he nor they be deceived. I also command that according to these -orders you instruct the paymasters so that they may well understand that -each soldier is to have the money in his own hands so that there be a -good understanding between us. This is paid to them as it will be a long -and arduous campaign, and so that they may work with more zest and the -town be established quickly. See that the captains go at this work with -diligence and haste, and you must immediately see and attend to where -you are to lodge these people and from there embark them. Send with them -a person of trust to guide and lodge them and to see that they are well -provided with food and all necessaries for their money. Keep them well -together without disorder or vexation to the people of the land. Inform -me of how you have provided for them and you will have served me. From</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Bosque de Segovia</span>.<br /> -</p> - -<p>August 15th, 1565.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h3>REPORT OF DON TRISTAN DE LUNA Y AVELLANO, CONCERNING AFFAIRS IN FLORIDA.</h3> - -<p>The Armada which went to found the town in Florida at the place called -Santa Elena in the port of Juan Ponce on the eleventh of June, and -sailed with good<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_3" id="page_3"></a>{3}</span> and mild wind. On the seventh day out we were on the -river Espiritu Santo, twenty leagues south of said river, in 27th -degree, from there we sailed six days to the southeast and south until -we found ourselves in the chain. South from there we sailed north in -search of the coast of Florida, and at the end of the eighth day, which -was the eve of the visitation of Saint Elizabeth, we discovered the -coast of Florida eight leagues to the west where the Armada cast anchor -and took on water and wood. Now we began to have rough weather. From -there the fleet sailed on the eighth of July in search of the Port -Achusa, sending ahead along the coast a frigate, the pilot not knowing -exactly where Port Achusa was. The Armada passed ahead and anchored in -the Bay of Phillipina, which was discovered by Julio de Labazares, from -whence the Governor sent to seek Port Achusa, having heard that it was -the best and safest port on all that coast. Navigating along the same -coast where the Armada had come, they found Port Achusa which is twenty -leagues from Bay Phillipina and thirty, more or less, from the Bay of -Miruelo, so that it is between two bays—latitude 30 1-3 degrees. On the -return of the frigate with the news, we immediately determined to set -sail with the Armada. It seemed best to have the horses go by land, so -we put them off in said Bay of Phillipina, thus some of our captains -made the trip overland with one hundred and forty horses, out of the two -hundred and forty we started with, the others having died at sea. On the -bar of Phillipina we had some trouble with the Armada in crossing, on -account of its shallowness for the larger vessels, also the strong and -swift current—besides the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_4" id="page_4"></a>{4}</span> weather had changed, and it was rougher. The -Armada left Bay Phillipina for Achusa on the 10th of August, the day of -St. Lawrence, and it entered Port Achusa on the day of Our Lady of -August, for which reason we gave it the name of St. Mary of Phillipina. -It is the best port discovered in the Indias. The shallowest part at the -entrance is eleven cubits, and after you enter there are seven or eight -fathoms. It is spacious, having a front of three leagues, the Spaniards -are already there. The entrance of the bar is half a league in width, on -the eastern coast is a cliff at the mouth of the bay, and large vessels -can anchor in four or five fathoms within a stone’s throw from land. It -is so safe that the winds and storms cannot hurt one. We found a few -Indian ranches, they seemed to be fishermen. Judging from appearances it -seems to be a fertile and good soil. There are many walnuts and many -fruit trees—good hunting and fishing and good in many ways. We also -found some plantings of corn. On the 25th of said month of August, the -Governor sent Don Tristan de Avellano in a galleon, of those we brought, -for this, from New Spain, with the news of all that had happened so far. -He entered the Port of San Juan de Ulloa on the 9th of September. He -will supply himself quickly with provisions, which at present we have -sent to ask for, and we expect the boats to return soon. They will again -go to this New Spain, and wait there to see the lay of the land, and -where we are to found this town, and understand all the particulars and -qualities to inform you.</p> - -<p>When the boats return I will give the details to your Majesty in the -order that the Governor, Friars and other Officers write me, and I shall -be careful to aid<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_5" id="page_5"></a>{5}</span> them in the name of your Majesty with everything that -they need, so they may not vex the natives, but give themselves up to -friendly intercourse with them, until the time for planting grain. In -future it will not be so expensive, the ground being so fertile we can -gather large harvests, thus serving and exalting your Majesty and the -Catholic faith of Our Lord.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h3>To His Catholic Royal Majesty Pedro Menendez says:</h3> - -<p>That what he sends your Majesty is what he declares to know of the coast -and lands of Florida, and of the corsairs whom it is said have gone to -populate it and seize the vessels coming from the Indias—and the damage -they may do, and the remedy to be used in cases where they should have -settled. Give them no quarter, and appropriate the coast and lands so -that they can be the more easily turned out—that your Majesty can send -to spread the Gospel, prevent the damages that can be done the vessels -coming from the Indias is as follows: That while in Sevilla last May, he -knew and understood positively from persons coming from the Canary -Islands that they had been on the Island of Teneriffe and Port Garachico -with a Portuguese named Mimoso, who is a pilot on the run of the Indias, -and has a wife and home in France, that he has become a pirate, seizing -the vessels of your Majesty. He carried four men of war, and it was said -he was going to settle the coast of Florida; that two other large -vessels were awaiting him, as soon as he took on water and provisions in -that port, and he saw them there in a small vessel without disembarking<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_6" id="page_6"></a>{6}</span> -for five or six hours, where some of the people who wish to be under -them came to speak to them. He then returned to his vessel and set sail -to return to the Indias. Also, that he heard in Sevilla and in this -court of your Majesty that the English had gone out with a fleet to the -coast of Florida to settle and to await the vessels from the Indias—and -about a month ago he learned that five large English galleons with heavy -artillery had passed about the end of December along the coast of Gaul -and the tempest had driven them into the harbor of Ferrol, where they -were anchored for a day and a half without landing, but the fishermen -had gone on board to speak to them, and he says: If the above be true, -and the English, French or any other nation should feel disposed to go -and settle any part of Florida, it would be very damaging to these -kingdoms, because on said coast of Florida and in said strait of the -Bahamas, they could settle and fortify themselves in such a way, that -they could have galleons and vessels of war to capture the fleets and -other private vessels that came from the Indias, and pass through there, -as they would run great risk of being captured.</p> - -<p>Also, that if last summer the French and English went to Florida as we -are certain they did, and should have settled and built a fort in any -port, and summered there, giving notice to their home government as to -how they are situated, and should they be supplied this summer before we -can raid upon them, and turn them out, it would be very difficult to do -so on account of the friendship formed by them with the natives who -would help them in such a way as to cause serious difficulty, and even -should we finally succeed the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_7" id="page_7"></a>{7}</span> natives would remain our enemies, and -this would be extremely disadvantageous. Should they be supplied this -summer the merchantmen which we expect from the Indias would also run -great risk of being captured. Also, that it would be very annoying to -have the above mentioned or others settle in Florida. Considering the -proximity of the Islands of Santo Domingo, Puerto Rico and Cuba, where -there are such vast numbers of negroes and mulattoes of bad disposition, -there being in each of these islands more than thirty negroes to each -Christian. And it is a land in which this generation multiplies with -great rapidity. In the power of the French and English, all these slaves -would be freed, and to enjoy their freedom would help them even against -their own masters and lords and there would be an uprising in the land, -and with the help of the negroes it would be easy to capture us. As an -example of this, take Jacques de Soria, France, which in the year -fifty-three, with one boat of a hundred tons and eighty men, by simply -freeing the negroes, took and plundered the Islands of Margarite and -Saint Martha, and burned Carthagena, plundered Santiago de Cuba and -Havana, although at the time there were two hundred Spaniards there. -They took the Fort with all it contained, and twelve pieces of bronze -artillery and carried them all off. I consider these negroes a great -obstacle to having the French or English settle in Florida or to have -them so near, even though they should not be in favor with these two -nations, there is danger of an uprising as there are so many cunning and -sagacious ones who desire this liberty that I feel sure the design of -those who should settle in Florida is to domineer over those islands, -and stop<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_8" id="page_8"></a>{8}</span> the navigation with the Indias, which they can easily do by -settling in said Florida. Also he says: That on account of these dangers -and many others, it seems to him it would be to the service of God Our -Lord, and your Majesty for the general good of your Kingdoms the Indies -it would be well for your Majesty to try and domineer over these lands -and coasts, which on account of their position, if other nations should -go on settling and making friends with the Indians, it would be -difficult to conquer them, especially if settled by French and English -Lutherans, as they and the Indians having about the same laws, they -would be friendly, and being near could rule and each year send out a -thousand vessels to easily treat and contract with these lands which are -said to be fertile and prolific for sugar plantations, which they so -much need and are supplied from these Kingdoms. There might also be many -cattle good for their tallow and wool and other necessities. What seems -to him that your Majesty should do in the service of God and your -Majesty’s and for the salvation of so many souls, and the aggrandizement -of your kingdoms and your royal estates, is as follows:</p> - -<p>As there are neither French nor English nor any other nation to disturb -them, that your Majesty should send five hundred persons, sailors, -laborers, etc., and that among them should be one hundred master -carpenters, blacksmiths, plasterers and builders of mud walls, all with -their implements and appurtenances for every thing, with their arms of -defense, such as arquebuses, cross-bows, etc. That among this number of -five hundred people should be four Friars, four teachers and twelve -Christian children, so that<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_9" id="page_9"></a>{9}</span> the principal Indians would send their -children to school to learn to read and learn the doctrine of -Christianity. There should be three surgeons who would go about in small -boats, canoes or row boats with supplies for one year—go straight to -Santa Elena and from there find all the paths, rivers and ports most -suited and best, by land and water. See the condition of the land for -planting and settle two or three towns in the best vicinity, build their -fort, to be able to defend themselves against the Indians, that each of -these forts should have artillery and ammunition. All this supply with -the cost of the voyage will amount to eighty thousand ducats or more. -There will be left vessels enough to carry a number of cattle. These -must be sent from Spain, because in the Indias we could not find -suitable vessels nor head workmen of the necessary qualifications and it -could not give the desired results, besides the delay would cause much -damage. It would be difficult to find the proper kind of people, and -even if found the cost would be very much greater, as head workmen gain -very large wages in those parts, as do also laborers and sailors. From -Havana it would be still more impossible to bring them, as there are -none to be obtained, and if they have to settle they must go a long way -’round, as they cannot enter the mouth of the Bahama Channel, it being -as easy and quick to come from Spain as from Havana. It would be more -important that your Majesty do this at your own cost and as briefly and -with as secret a diligence as possible, and if your Majesty is not well -served in this, find some one in whom your Majesty can place more -confidence, confer with them and let them take charge of -affairs—<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_10" id="page_10"></a>{10}</span>although it would be far better for your Majesty to do this at -your own cost, and with all brevity and secrecy which is the most -important thing. Also, he says: That should there be French in this land -or on the sea awaiting the merchant vessels from the Indias, it would be -necessary to increase this squadron to four more galleons and one -thousand men, principally marines—the cost of which for six months -would be five hundred thousand ducats more or less.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pedro Menendez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The King.</span></h3> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>To Gen. Pedro Menendez de Avilez, Knight of the Order of Santiago, -and our Governor of the Province of Florida</i>: </p></div> - -<p>Know—Having understood that from the Kingdoms of France and England -many war vessels have been sent out with a great number of sailors and -soldiers, with intent of going to that Province, and that now again they -are arming and equipping vessels for the same purpose at Havre de Grace -and other Ports of said Kingdoms of France and England. And that you may -do everything to defend yourselves and capture the Forts they have built -and thrust them from the land, that you may hold it in peace. You might -overlook the damage they have done to navigation. We have arranged for -and ordered 1,500 infantrymen to join you and those you have with you -and we send them with the fleet and also all the necessaries—and we -have provided as Captain-General of the fleet Captain Sancho de -Archimiaga, an expert and experienced man of the sea, ordering him to go -to said Province, and in joining you, it gives you protection by sea as<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_11" id="page_11"></a>{11}</span> -well as by land. Your flag alone must float, as our Captain-General, and -all undertakings must be done under your flag. And for all enterprises -to be undertaken by land we have appointed a Field Marshal and five -Captains to be under him, and that both they and the infantry are to be -directly under you as our Captain-General and Governor, because this is -our will, and we have expressly ordered it. That your person must be -carefully guarded. With your experience both by land and sea we are -perfectly satisfied, still, that you may the better succeed, and that -there may be conformity and good will, as it is important, affairs that -between you and said Captain Archimiaga and Field Marshal and the other -Captains accompanying him as they are men of much experience in war. It -is our will, and so we order you, that in all things occurring on sea as -well as on land concerning the war, you will call these Captains and -consult with them, more especially Captain Archimiaga and the Field -Marshal—that in this way alone must you decide upon questions of -war—because thus it suits us and our service. That I trust in them to -look into matters and provide all that is deemed advisable in such -undertakings—and they will follow and obey you as our Captain-General. -Let it be in such a way that there be good will and intelligence between -you—no dissensions or quarrels, which would be a great drawback, but -that you will proceed with mildness and consideration, as I feel assured -you will, proceeding to free those lands, and give no quarters to the -enemy to take root in them—and if it were possible, and there should be -no notable inconvenience, you divide the fleet. Captain Juan Zurita and -his company of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_12" id="page_12"></a>{12}</span> Artillery go with the Infantry, as you will see. Of -their success you will see to it, and give an account.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Philip II.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Madrid, September 8th, 1565.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_13" id="page_13"></a>{13}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1565.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Menendez reports that his army escapes from being made prisoners -by the French on account of a tornado—The Council agree to make a -land attack, the river being too much swollen for their -transports—The Spaniards surprise and take Fort Matanzas without -the loss of a single man, killing over two hundred Frenchmen and -capturing Laudonnier—The Indians enchanted with the -Lutherans—Shipwrecked Frenchmen found on the coast—With their -hands tied behind them they are stabbed in the back by the -Spaniards.</i> </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Fort Matanzas Massacre, 1565.</span></h3> - -<p>I wrote to your Majesty from aboard the galleon San Salvador on -September 11th, this being the day she left Port. The duplicate of the -letter goes in this, and later on will send the other. While I was on -the Bar in a sloop with two small boats with artillery and ammunition -there came upon us four French galleons which had run us down with two -or three small vessels to prevent us from landing here. Taking the -artillery and provisions, although the weather was not propitious for -crossing the Bar, I preferred to take the chances rather than surrender -myself and one hundred and fifty persons, who were with me, into their -power. Our Lord miraculously saved us. The tide was low, there being -only one and a half scant fathoms of water on the bar, and their<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_14" id="page_14"></a>{14}</span> vessel -required one and a half long fathoms. They saw we had escaped them, as -they spoke asking me to surrender, to have no fear. They then turned to -search for the galleon, thinking we could not escape them. Two days out -a heavy storm and tornado overtook them. It seemed to me they could not -return to their Fort, running too great a risk of being lost, and to -return to capture us they would have to bring a larger force and of the -best they had. Thinking that their Fort would remain weak and it was the -right time to capture it I called a council of the captains, who agreed -with me, and decided to attack the fort by land. I therefore took five -hundred men, the three hundred arquebusiers, the rest pikemen, and with -these few, taking our knapsacks and putting in each six pounds of -biscuit and a measure of one and a half gallons of wine, with our arms -and ammunition; each Captain and soldier—I was among the first setting -the example, carrying this food and arms on my back. Not knowing the -way, we hoped to get there in two days, it being distant about eight -leagues or so, as we were told by two Indians who went with us as -guides. Leaving this Fort of St. Augustine in the order above described -and with determination on the eighteenth of September, we found the -rivers so swollen from the copious rains that it was impossible to ford -them and we were obliged to take a circuitous route which had never been -used before through swamp and unknown roads to avoid the rivers.</p> - -<p>After walking until nine or ten o’clock at night, on the morning of the -twentieth, which is the feast of San Mateo, we arrived in sight of the -Fort. Having offered prayers to the Blessed Lord and His Holy<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_15" id="page_15"></a>{15}</span> Mother, -supplicating them to give us victory over these Lutherans, it was agreed -that with twenty ladders, which we carried, to assail the Fort. His -Divine Majesty had mercy upon us and guided us in such a way that -without losing one man and with only one injured (who is now well), we -took the Fort with all it contained, killing about two hundred and -thirty men, the other ten we took as prisoners to the forest. Among them -were many noblemen, one who was Governor and Judge, called Monsieur -Laudonnier, a relative of the French Admiral, and who had been his -steward. This Laudonnier escaped to the woods and was pursued by one of -the soldiers who wounded him, and we know not what has become of him, as -he and the others escaped by swimming out to two small boats of the -three vessels that were opposite the Fort, with about fifty or sixty -persons. I sent them a cannonade and call of the trumpet to surrender -themselves, vessels and arms. They refused, so with the artillery found -in the Fort we sunk one vessel, the others taking up the men went down -the river where they had two other vessels anchored laden with -provisions, being of the seven sent from France, and which had not yet -been unloaded. It did not seem to me right to leave the Fort and pursue -them until I had repaired three boats we found in the Fort. The Indians -notified them of our actions. As they were so few they took the two best -and strongest vessels and sank the other. In three days they had fled. -Being informed of this by the Indians, I did not pursue them. Later from -the Fort they wrote me that about twenty Frenchmen had appeared in the -forest with no clothing but a shirt, and many of them were<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_16" id="page_16"></a>{16}</span> wounded. It -was believed that Monsieur Laudonnier was among them. I have sent word -that they make every effort to capture them and bring them to justice. -In the Fort were found, among women, creatures and children under -fifteen years of age, about fifty persons. It causes me deep sorrow to -see them among my people on account of their horrid religious sect, and -I fear our Lord would punish me should I use cruelty with them. Eight or -ten of the boys were born here.</p> - -<p>These French have many friends among the Indians, who show much feeling -at their loss, especially for two or three teachers of their hateful -doctrine which they taught to the Indian chiefs, who followed them as -the Apostles did our Lord. It is a thing of admiration to see how these -Lutherans enchanted the poor savage people. I shall use every means to -gain the good will of these Indians who were such friends to the French, -and there is no reason why I should break with them, and if I can live -with them at peace it will be well; they are such traitors, thieves and -drunkards, that it is almost impossible to do so. These chiefs and the -Indians, their enemies, all show friendship towards me, which I return -and shall continue, unless their depredations increase that I may have -to do otherwise.</p> - -<p>On the 28th of September the Indians notified me that many Frenchmen -were about six leagues from here on the coast, that they had lost their -vessels and escaped by swimming and in boats. Taking fifty soldiers I -was with them next morning at daylight, and, leaving my men in ambush, I -took one with me to the banks of the river, because they were on one<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_17" id="page_17"></a>{17}</span> -side and I on the other bank. I spoke to them, told them I was Spanish; -they said they were French. They asked me to come over to them either -alone or with my partner, the river being narrow. I replied that we did -not know how to swim, but that they could safely come to us. They agreed -to do so, and sent a man of some intellect, master of a boat, who -carefully related to me how they had left their Fort with four galleons -and eight small vessels, that each carried twenty-four oars with four -hundred picked soldiers and two hundred marines and John Ribaut as -General and Monsieur LeGrange, who was General of the Infantry, and -other good captains, soldiers and gentlemen, with the intention of -finding me on the sea, and if I attempted to land, to land their people -on the small boats and capture me. That if they had wanted to land they -could easily have done so, but they had not dared and wanted to return -to their Fort. That they were overtaken by a hurricane and tempest and -were wrecked about twenty or twenty-five leagues from here. That of the -four hundred only forty had survived; that the others had perished or -were killed by the Indians. That fifty were carried prisoners by the -Indians; that John Ribaut with his captain were anchored five leagues -from there in the swamp without trees, and he had in the vessel with him -two hundred persons, more or less, and they believed them to have -perished with all the artillery and ammunition, which was a great deal -and good. Part of it was with John Ribaut and what they had, was -certainly lost. They were saved, and he asked for himself and companions -safe passage to their Fort, since they were not at war with the -Spaniards. I<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_18" id="page_18"></a>{18}</span> then told him how we had taken their Fort and hung all -those we found in it, because they had built it without your Majesty’s -permission and because they were scattering the odious Lutheran doctrine -in these Provinces, and that I had war to fire and blood, as Governor -and Captain-General of these Provinces, against all those who came to -sow this hateful doctrine; representing to him that I came by order of -your Majesty to place the Gospel in these parts and to enlighten the -natives in all that the Holy Church of Rome says and does so as to save -their souls. That I would not give them passage; rather would I follow -them by sea and land until I had taken their lives. He begged to be -allowed to go with this embassy and that he would return at night -swimming, if I would grant him his life. I did so to show him that I was -in earnest and because he could enlighten me on many subjects. -Immediately after his return to his companions there came a gentleman, a -lieutenant of Monsieur Laudonnier, a man well versed and cunning to -tempt me. After much talk he offered to give up their arms if I would -grant their lives. I told him he could surrender the arms and give -themselves up to my mercy, that I might do with them that which our Lord -ordered. More than this he could not get from me, and that God did not -expect more of me. Thus he returned and they came to deliver up their -arms. I had their hands tied behind them and had them stabbed to death, -leaving only sixteen, twelve being great big men, mariners whom they had -stolen, the other four master carpenters and caulkers—people for whom -we have much need, and it seemed to me to punish them in this manner -would be serving<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_19" id="page_19"></a>{19}</span> God, our Lord, and your Majesty. Hereafter they will -leave us free to plant the Gospel, enlighten the natives, and bring them -to obedience and submission of your Majesty. The lands being extensive -it will be well to make them work fifty years—besides, a good beginning -makes a good end, so I have hopes in our Lord that in all He will grant -me prosperity and success, so that I and my descendants may give to your -Majesty those Kingdoms full and return the people Christians. My -particular interest as I have written your Majesty is this: We are -gaining great favor with the Indians and will be feared by them, -although we make them many gifts.</p> - -<p>Considering what John Ribaut had done, I find that within ten leagues of -where he was anchored, three of the vessels of his company were lost; -whether they were lost or not, they would have landed the people, -unloaded what supplies they could, employed themselves in getting out -the brass artillery and the upright posts and tackle, if not lost, of -the three vessels, rig themselves as best they could, and if the vessel -he was on was not lost he will make every effort to come by sea. Should -he do so I await him, and with the help of God, he will be lost. He -might also go inland with one of the Casiques, his friend, who lives -thirty leagues from here, and is very powerful. Should this be the case -I will seek him there, because it is not convenient that he and his -companions should remain alive. Should he come by sea to the Fort I have -the entrance to the Bar mined with two savage canon and guns, so that -should they succeed in making an entrance, we can sink them. A -brigantine is kept in readiness to capture the people and I shall<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_20" id="page_20"></a>{20}</span> do -all in my power to prevent his escape. The things found in the Fort were -only four pieces of brass of about five tons, the canon and guns which -had come from France were dismounted and carried to the galleons when -they went in search of me. There were found besides twenty-five bronze -musket and as much as twenty tons of powder and ammunition for these -pieces, about one hundred and sixty barrels of flour, twenty casks of -wine. The balance of the supplies had not been unloaded, as they were -hesitating whether they should fortify this Port, fearing I should land -here, which I could easily have done. Since their arrival they had spent -most of their time in debaucheries over the joy felt at the news they -had received that northeast of Santa Elena was a range of mountains -coming from the Zacatecas where there were great mines of silver. The -Indians from those parts had brought them many pieces of silver to the -amount of five and six thousand ducats. We found to the amount of three -thousand ducats, more or less, in clothes and all kinds of valuables; -some hogs, male and female; also sheep and asses; all this was ransacked -by the soldiers; nothing escaped them. Besides the two vessels found in -the Port we found two near the Bar and two others they had stolen from -the Indians, loaded with hides. Of these they had drowned the crews and -the cargo had been given to an English vessel to carry it and sell it in -England or France, and there remained with them two Englishmen. The -French had no mariners by whom to send these vessels. These two -Englishmen were hung when the Fort was captured by us. The Englishmen by -whom they sent the cargo arrived in port at the Fort we<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_21" id="page_21"></a>{21}</span> have taken from -them, the early part of August of this year, in a galleon of a thousand -tons called the Queen of England, with three heavy tiers of artillery; -all who saw her wondered and had never seen a vessel so heavily armed -that drew so little water; the other three vessels were smaller. It was -agreed between the English and French that as the French awaited help -from France that Monsieur Ludovic, who was Governor here, should wait -for them until the end of September; failing to return, he, Ludovic, was -to go to France in search of them, and that by the month of April they -would return with a large fleet, to await and capture the fleet of New -Spain, which was forced to pass their Fort; that if aid came, for which -they had written to France, they would advise the English who would come -to this coast by the month of April. It was for this purpose that I -found in the Fort a large vessel and seven small ones, and another five, -one or two of which had been stolen, and the four they wished to send to -France to have them equipped with men and provisions to join the English -and themselves by April; that by that time John Ribaut would have -returned and with the eight hundred men who remained he wished to go by -January to Los Martyres, about twenty-five leagues from Havana, and -there build a fort. They had reconnoitered and found it a very desirable -port. This was agreed between them, and that before leaving France John -Ribaut was to obtain the order that they should fortify Los Martyres, a -strait by which no vessel could enter or depart without being sighted by -them. To keep there always in readiness six vessels, it being the best -sea in the world for them. That from there they would take Havana,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_22" id="page_22"></a>{22}</span> free -all the negroes; that they would then send to make the same offer to the -Spanish of Porto Rico and all other colonies. All this information I -gained from the skilful Frenchman to whom I granted life. They had with -them six Portuguese pilots whom they hung when no longer needed; two -others had been killed by the Indians, and two were with Ribaut. The -river San Mateo, running by the Fort we captured, goes seventy leagues -inland and turns to the southeast emptying into the bay of Juan Ponce, -and from there to New Spain and the port of San Juan de Luca, where -there is only upwards of fifty leagues. In the bay of Juan Ponce they -thought next year to build a fort on account of its proximity to New -Spain, distant a hundred and fifty leagues and about the same distance -from Honduras and as many more from Yucatan, and where with their six -vessels they could navigate with ease. On this river are three large -Indian towns. The Indians are great friends of the French who have been -there three times in search of corn. These French landed there in great -need of supplies, having only enough to carry them eight days. Corn they -found scarce and took it almost by force. The Indians themselves are -great thieves—a poor but brave people. All the Indians are not more -friendly to them than to us, and I will not consent to take a grain of -corn from them, but prefer to give them of what I may have. I consider -this country so vast and fertile and the danger from enemies and -corsaires so great and that they can appropriate to themselves the land -lying north of here near New Foundland, of which they are already lords, -and can be sustained by them with ease. Everything should be done to aid -me<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_23" id="page_23"></a>{23}</span> instead of cutting me off, and your Majesty must be undeceived and -know that I am much better able than your Majesty to enlarge and -aggrandize these your Kingdoms. This Port is 29½ degrees, and the San -Mateo which we captured is 31 degrees. The French and their pilots were -mistaken. I have had it taken by the sun on land. From here to the Cape -of Canaveral there are fifty leagues, three rivers, two ports between -here and Havana, one hundred miles, more or less, which are navigable in -boats among the keys of Canaveral and Los Martyres, and from there to -Havana. I agree to take the good field pieces which we have captured -from the French, and one hundred men go along the borders of the coast, -the boats by sea, anchoring at night near land among the keys of -Canaveral where the sea is as smooth as a river, with the boats they -will be able to discover among the keys the best port and surroundings -to build a fort. So that with the one in Havana and this one we can at -all times guard against the enemy and their entering to fortify -themselves. Nor should we expect fleets or boats of the Indians. With -the people of Havana, Santo Domingo and Pedro de la Roda, whom I shall -have to come to my assistance, I will have until the last of March to -build it, then with these vessels go over to Havana and seek these -people. Having discovered the Port, and on the arrival of Pedro de la -Roda in Havana he will find his vessels which I do not propose to take -out of that Port, also his men, so that he may return to Spain as strong -as when he left there. That I shall place one hundred and fifty -Spaniards in possession to guard against the Indians who are great<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_24" id="page_24"></a>{24}</span> -warriors and whose good will we must gain. Then, by the 1st of April, I -shall return to these two Forts, and in six or eight days I shall again -take to the sea. By the month of March, leaving these two Forts well -equipped and guarded each with three hundred men, I shall go in vessels -that draw little water which I will soon have here, most of them the -ones taken from the French. I will man as many as I can with five -hundred soldiers and one hundred mariners, found a town at Santa Elena, -which is fifty leagues from here, and has within three leagues of it -three Ports and rivers, the largest of six fathoms of water, the other -four fathoms; admirable Ports and the one we call Santa Elena is the -third, the one the French occupied is very small; the three are -navigable, one within the other, so that he who is lord of one is lord -of the three. It is the best place to build a fort leaving three hundred -men to finish it, pass on up the bay to Santa Maria, which is 36 -degrees, one hundred and thirty leagues beyond Santa Elena; then on to -the land of the Indians which is in Mexico, fortify another fort and -leave another two hundred soldiers. This will be the key to all the -fortifications of this country, because from those to the new land it -does not have to be founded. Inland, about eighty leagues, are to be -found a range of mountains, at their base an arm of sea which leads to -the New Land. This arm of the sea enters the New Land which is navigable -seventy leagues where there is another sea turning northeast and we -suspect it leads to the South Sea. The Indians send many cattle from New -Spain which were found on these plains by Francisco Basques Coronado. -They carried the hides to the New Land in canoes to<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_25" id="page_25"></a>{25}</span> sell to the French -in exchange for barter. From here, in the past two years, they have -carried in their fishing boats more than six thousand hides. The French -can go from here in their vessels to the foot of the mountain range four -hundred leagues from the mines of San Martin and New Galicia and can -mine them to their heart’s content. It would be well to fix our frontier -lines here, gain the water-way of the Bahamas and work the mines of New -Spain. This key and strength is necessary that your Majesty should -become Lord of all of it, because by it you will be master of the world. -I have written to Pedro del Castillo to send me three hundred soldiers -and supplies for eight hundred persons. It would be useless not to have -the three hundred soldiers to serve your Majesty and to provide the -necessaries. Thus on, from the first of February, your Majesty can send -a hundred mariners and the equipments and let them bring everything -necessary to found a town in the Bay of Juan Ponce, as this river is -part of San Mateo, which we captured from the enemy. Eighteen leagues -inland from this bay, and from one bay to the other, we can easily trade -with the multitude of Indians that are there and make them soon learn -the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. In this Bay of Juan Ponce is the -Province of Appalache, an indomitable people with whom the Spaniards -have never been able to treat. Thus will all difficulties be overcome so -far as New Galicia which is about three hundred leagues, and so many -more to Vera Cruz, and the same distance to Yucatan. From there this -town will be provided with corn, as there is much of it. As we found the -place and build a good City, there will be no need of founding<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_26" id="page_26"></a>{26}</span> others -in Florida. We will then proceed to the New Land, easily work the many -mines of silver which are found there, and are the mines of the -Zacatecas. In a few years the silver worked from them will support this -country and be a treasure to your Majesty and a suburb of Spain which -can be reached in forty days from these Kingdoms. With the scarcity of -supplies in the Forts we are suffering much hunger as the grain was -burned and so, unless we receive aid soon, we shall suffer terribly. I -trust your Majesty is satisfied that we serve you faithfully and with -love and in all truth. Without extending myself further, but promising -to keep you advised of all that may happen, may God protect your -Majesty, increasing your royal Catholic personage with greater kingdoms -and possessions as Christianity has need of and your servants desire it -should be.</p> - -<p>From these Provinces of Florida from the banks of San Pelayo and Fort of -St. Augustine, October 15th, 1565.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pedro Menendez de Aviles.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_27" id="page_27"></a>{27}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1583-1596-1598.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Report of Fernando Miranda, agent to the King—Complains of -Governor—Espionage over vessels—Gives account of the work of the -negroes—Haste makes it necessary to employ soldiers in repairing -the Fort for which they were paid—Partial failure of crops -increases the cost of living—Report of Bartolome De Arguellas -giving account of rebellious Indians—Some of those captured were -sent to Havana to be executed, others to be imprisoned—Casiques -render obedience to the Governor who assures them of his good -intentions—Report of Pedro Pertrene to the King—Is newly called -to take charge of a company of Infantry in the Garrison of -Florida—Salary not sufficient to meet expenses of living, recalls -his long service to the King, and asks for increase of pay—Letter -from Dona Maria Menendez, Casique, to the King—Asks for assistance -in meeting the necessary expenses for instruction of the Indians in -Christianity and good government.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1583.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Fernando Miranda and Rodrego Junco, assistant Agent, who was of -these Kingdoms, to His Majesty</i>: </p></div> - -<p>After the Governor had given a decree of the same suspension, we asked -him that until your Majesty should otherwise provide, we be allowed to -continue in office and watch over your Majesty’s interest. Another thing -which occurs to us to inform your<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_28" id="page_28"></a>{28}</span> Majesty: Yesterday there sailed from -this Port for Havana a vessel belonging to some one in Havana, and the -Governor made every effort to see if we had sent any papers by her—he -searched the vessel and not wishing to give testimony, we understood he -did not wish any letters sent, and so we dared not write more. We felt -that this would be sufficient for your Majesty to place the remedy and -investigate the cause, and punish the culprit.</p> - -<p>In the two years that your Majesty’s negroes have been here, they have -made a platform for the artillery of this Fort of an indestructible -wood—as the one they had previous to this rotted away in two years. -They have made a blacksmith shop, and whatever repairs were needed on -the Fort. Ten of the best of them were sent to Santa Elena to saw boards -to cover that Fort which needed it. On beginning the work it was found -that the whole Fort was in such a damaged condition it was necessary to -tear it all down and rebuild as quickly as possible. On account of the -haste required the soldiers were obliged to help for which work they -were paid. It was completed in four months, during which time the -negroes had to be fed on bread, meat and wine. Besides they have helped -to build a church here, sawed lumber for the building of many dwellings, -and have cleared the woods to some extent for planting. The first crop -not being good, caused extra expense of food and ammunition which was -given them—but for the past six months they have been fed on the -harvest made, with no other expense but the oil and salt. They have corn -enough to last until the next harvest, and all the expense incurred to -the end of June of the present year is six thousand<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_29" id="page_29"></a>{29}</span> five hundred reals, -from the Treasury of your Majesty—because, although there have been -some other expenses, we have availed ourselves of advantages we had -after having had recourse to what has been offered to your Majesty’s -service. About six months ago eleven of these negroes were hired to -soldiers of this Fort, without the knowledge of the Treasurer, rendering -an account of this to the Governor. It is about a year and a half since -we notified the Governor that he should not keep these accounts, but as -provided by your Majesty they should be sent to this Court. He has never -sent them. Your Majesty will act as best suits him in this affair of our -suspension; we again implore your Majesty to give us a hearing, and some -satisfaction, since we are left in this sterile country without the -means of sustenance. May God preserve your Majesty for many years with -great aggrandizement.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Fernando Miranda.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, August 20th. 1583.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>As the Governor, Don Domingo Martinez Avendano, has been sending your -Majesty an account of the proceedings of our journey, I have not done so -until now, that we have landed in these Provinces of Florida, and seen -the condition of things, the people of the Garrison and the natives. It -was a blessing of God that it was all quiet and peaceful, and the -Governor with much gentleness and discretion entered, and proceeded -well, to support the service of your Majesty. It was a very fortunate -thing, as many of the culprits had made threats, which if carried into -effect, would have<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_30" id="page_30"></a>{30}</span> resulted disastrously—but they had not the heart to -carry them out, although a number of the worst criminals were out of the -country. Of those who remained, ten were captured, and with their -accusations were sent by Captain Francisco Salazar to Havana, in the -custody of a trusted lieutenant and twelve soldiers, as guards, so that -they may be executed there and accomplish your Majesty’s will. With this -imprisonment and a public reprimand made by the Governor to the other -Indians, all of which remain quiet. Being overcome with fear, I -understand they will return promptly to their employment, and your -Majesty will be well served. The Casiques of this country came to render -obedience to the Governor, who caressed them and instructed them of the -manner and order in which they were to attend to your Majesty’s work—he -told them he wished to visit them in their homes, and the good -intentions and desires he brings of attending to your service and the -proofs he has already given of them. We entertain great hopes that all -will soon be settled. From Havana they dispatched to the Treasurer Juan -Menendez Marquez to be present at the paying off of the employees of -this Garrison. While the Governor intended to have me assume control of -this collection, he seemed to change his mind, and I came here with him, -where I remain attending to the duties under my charge until he thinks -that I may go out and make use of the license your Majesty granted me if -nothing more occurs. May Our Lord guard the person of your Royal -Catholic Majesty, as we have need of you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Bartolome de Arguellas.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Florida, July 6th, 1596.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_31" id="page_31"></a>{31}</span></p> - -<hr /> -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1598.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I do not wish to make a long report in this letter, as I understand -a detailed account of all that occurs in these provinces will be -made by your Majesty’s Governor, Gonzalo Menendez Canso, who in -every thing appertaining to your Majesty’s service and welfare is -proceeding with caution—reforming, arranging everything in the -most approved manner, discovering as he goes, all the secrets of -the service, and governing himself in accordance. He has strong and -brave resolutions, as I know, having communicated them to me, and -given me an account of his good intentions.</p> - -<p>Having served your Royal Highness for twenty-six years in this part -of your Royal Fleet, in charge of your Captains-General the -Adelantado Pedro Menendez Aviles, Diego Flores Valdez, Cristobal -Eraso, and Alvarez Flores de Quinones, as Officer in the companies -in which I served as Lieutenant of the Governor of the Castle, -under Diego Fernandez de Quinones, in Havana. Being in that City, -retired in my home, I was called by the above mentioned Governor to -give and honor me with one of your Majesty’s companies of infantry -who served in this Garrison of Florida. In his absence to Guale to -the chastising of the Indians, who so horribly killed six priests -of the San Franciscan Order, he left me in his place. Of the spoils -which are usually divided, he has shared with me moderately, but -even with these, and the two hundred ducats I have as salary, and -the advantages given me, I cannot sustain myself, nor assist at the -obligations of such Captains, on account of every thing in the land -being so dear—provisions are the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_32" id="page_32"></a>{32}</span> same—and the servant we had, -was taken from us by your Governor. I implore your Majesty to -attend to the above mentioned facts, and as my desire is to end my -life in your Royal Service—and that I may live and keep up my -obligations I may be given some help toward my expenses, and that I -may be allowed a servant, as is customary with all Captains serving -in this Garrison, and trusting that your Majesty will grant me -these things as are granted to all who serve you with good will. -God preserve your Royal Person as I desire and Christianity needs -you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pedro Pertrene.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Florida, February 20th, 1598. </p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>My poverty and the frequency with which the Indians, both Christians and -infidels, gather at my home to be instructed in matters concerning their -conversion, and other important things concerning the good Government -need with the Governor of these Provinces, places me under the necessity -of asking your Majesty to assist me in the expenses I am obliged to -incur with the Indians, as is certified to by the report accompanying -this letter which implores your Majesty to assist and see to this need, -since from it will result the coming of the Indians with more heartiness -to become Christians and in this way guard the faith. Your Royal -Highness being merciful. That I may do in all the above mentioned what -is just and right, I also implore your Majesty to send me a letter of -friendship that the Indians may see the good feeling<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_33" id="page_33"></a>{33}</span> which exists -between your Majesty and ourselves. God grant you may have all graces.</p> - -<p>Florida, February 20th, 1598.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_34" id="page_34"></a>{34}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1598.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Extract from an official report made by Gonzalo Menendez Canso, -Governor and Captain General of the Provinces of Florida, -concerning the murder of six priests of the San Franciscan Order by -the Indians—Lieutenant Eciga sent to see if any of the priests are -still living—Ascertains that there is one, but is refused -permission to see him—After much persuasion and many threats Friar -Fray Francisco is delivered—Makes statement as to death of the -others, but is forbidden by the canons of the Church to reveal -all—Juan Ximenes, a Notary Public and secretary, swears to the -investigation of several Indians through an interpreter—Indian -Lucas is found to have been present and participated in the killing -of Fray Blas for which he is condemned to be executed.</i> </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Dona Maria Menendez—casique.</span></h3> - -<p>This is a good and faithful copy taken from one of the official reports -made by Gonzalo Menendez Canes, Governor and Captain-General of these -Provinces of Florida to His Majesty, concerning the death of the -Religious of the Order of San Francisco, who perished at the hands of -the Indians who revolted. Its tenor is:</p> - -<p>In the city of St. Augustine, Province of Florida, July 1st, 1598, -Gonzalo Menendez Canes, Governor and Captain-General for the King our -Lord, says: That in the month of October past of 1597, he was<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_35" id="page_35"></a>{35}</span> notified -of an uprising of the Indians of the Peninsula of Guale. They had -refused to obey your Majesty, and killed the Religious of the Order of -San Francisco sent out to convert and teach them, and that he had made -every and the greatest efforts, having gone in person with a number of -infantry, ammunition and water craft to said peninsula, to investigate -and punish the cases, and ascertain the cause the Indians had for -committing such an atrocious crime. Although he made all the ravages he -could, acting upon advices received, he could not punish them more for -the time being, nor could he capture a live Indian, except one, an -interpreter, from whom they could get no information further than that -the Religious had been killed, as will be seen by his declaration. -Seeing the importance of ascertaining the root and cause of the killing -of these Religious, and if any were still living—and why they had lost -obedience to your Majesty, he has made the boldest efforts possible, -going by way of the Luna. Finding the Casiques in conference, we agreed -to send them presents and keepsakes, to induce them to let us know and -understand if any of the Religious or Friars were still living that we -might ransom them, sending to offer them even interest for them, and -also sending a launch with some of the infantry to the Fort Santa Elena, -distant fifty leagues from this Garrison, to enlist the Casique of that -country, on account of the friendship he has shown the Spaniards, and -because he has Indian warriors, and being so near he could do much -damage to the Peninsula of Guale. Lieutenant Exiga, who went in the -launch, found him and treated with him to make war and do all the damage -possible to said peninsula and ascertain if any of them were -living<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_36" id="page_36"></a>{36}</span>—bestowing upon him many gifts from your Majesty’s treasury that -he might go. It was agreed that Lieutenant Exiga should return to the -Casique in sixty days, and ascertain what military exploits he had had, -and what success. Being a matter of so much importance to your Majesty, -Lieutenant Exiga left this port on the 23rd of May, with two launches, -with infantry and ammunition to accomplish the agreement made with the -Casique. On the 24th, one day after leaving this fort, having gone as -far as the Bar of Asae, twenty leagues from here, he was caught in a -storm and hurricane, forcing him to put into harbor in distress. The -storm did so much damage to the food and ammunition they carried, that -he was obliged to strike with the launch for the shore of San Mateo. -Notwithstanding all the above mentioned, he continued his voyage to the -port Santa Elena, there taking another launch in better condition for -making the journey, leaving his in bad condition grounded on the beach. -Having arrived at Santa Elena and seen and spoken to the Casique who -delivered to him four gentlemen, he said he had taken from four Indians -of the Peninsula of Gaule where he went to make war. That three other -Indians had captured the Casique of Carague, who had accompanied him, -with the intent of making war. In the same way he certifies that they -had alive in the Peninsula of Gaule, near Solofina, one of the six -friars, named Toray Francisco de Avila. Having learned this he came -coasting along the shore and ports of Guale, to see if any Indians -should come out to speak to them. None appeared, until he came to -Tolomato where he saw one, who by much coaxing and presenting of gifts -and reasoning, succeeded in<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_37" id="page_37"></a>{37}</span> getting him to tell what he knew. Finally -they learned from him that the said Friar was still living. They paid -the Indian to take a letter to him, and they would await the reply—he -did so, and in the meantime they amused themselves coasting along the -shores of Tolomato, until the Indian returned with some of the Casiques, -whom they begged would show them the Friar, that they might certify to -his being alive, and treat with them for his ransom. At first, although -they had heaped the Indians with gifts, they would neither accept of the -gifts nor promise to deliver the Friar, unless in return for certain -boys, sons of some of the Casiques, who had been brought to Governor -Domingo Martinez Avendano, as hostages. As better security Lieutenant -Exiga promised to bring their boys within thirty days as ransom for the -Friar, also a quantity of hatchets and spades they asked for. Lieutenant -Exiga returned to Port Tolomato in fifteen days, and began treaty with -Casiques for the ransom of the Friar, and although he heaped gifts upon -them with a free hand, it made no impression. They are such liars and -traitors, and all their treaties are founded on treachery and cunning. -Seeing that they did not intend to keep their word and deliver the -priest, he found it necessary to change his tactics and show anger, -swearing that unless they did deliver the prisoner they would send for -three hundred soldiers and would run them through with the sword, cut -down all their crops and follow them to Tama. After these threats they -promised to deliver the Priest at once, which they did. After receiving -him, and having him in their power, Lieutenant Exiga made reprisal of -the hostages he carried, and of seven other Indians he had detained on -the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_38" id="page_38"></a>{38}</span> launch until he saw what success he was going to have. Four of -these Indians are sons and brothers of Casiques. The Governor holds them -and has brought them to this city where they are at present, and where -he protests he will investigate and take their declarations as to the -manner of death the other friars suffered—where, in what form, and for -what cause? Finding any of them to have taken part in this crime, to -punish them and do justice to the service of your Majesty, and that this -punishment may serve as an example to them, as they have at other times -committed these treacheries, killing captains and officers and other -persons. This I provide and sign from his hand, Gonzalo Menendez Vanso, -by order of His Lordship the Governor and Captain-General.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Later the said Governor and Captain-General ordered me, the secretary, -that I should go to the Monastery of San Francisco, of this city, and in -his name ask the custodian priest of said house, Fray Francisco Marron, -to give permission to Fray Francisco de Avila, who had been sent to -teach and convert the Indians, that under the oath which is administered -to the Religious of his Order, he declared how his companions were -killed, what he has seen and heard, and the causes that have moved them -to commit such a crime as the killing of the priests. To deny obedience, -and tell only what he knows and understands of the matter. They -continued the examination, so that all the above may be certified as the -truth. This I provide and sign in his name—and from the declaration of -the father custodian might result many worthy considerations in -questioning the Indians.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_39" id="page_39"></a>{39}</span></p> - -<p>Later—The present notary public went to the Monastery of San Francisco, -of this city, read and showed the decree above disposed of by his -Lordship the Governor and Captain-General Gonzalo Menendez Canso, to -Fray Francisco Marron, custodian of the provinces, who said: that -mindful that Fray Francisco de Avila was one of the friars sent out to -teach and convert in the Peninsula of Guale, and as the Lord, Our God, -had seen proper to deliver him from being killed by the Indians, as his -companions had been, and as a person who knew the habits and manners of -the Indians, and knew their language, he deemed it wise to give him -freedom to say and declare all he considered would be to the service of -God of the killing of his companions—except in cases and things -criminal where his rights of priesthood prohibited, such as death by the -cutting of members—and this I say and sign in his name—Fray Francisco -Marron—in my presence.</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., July 20th, 1598.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Gonzalo Menendez Canso, Governor and Captain-General for his Majesty in -these Provinces, ordered to be called Fray Francisco de Avila that in -virtue of the permission granted him by the Custodian Fray Francisco -Marron, to say and declare all he knows concerning the killing of his -companions by the Indians, and of his imprisonment and -captivity—whether his person was badly treated, and all that had -occurred worthy of relating—so as to punish such crime as it deserves -to be.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_40" id="page_40"></a>{40}</span></p> - -<p>Fray Francisco de Avila said: Although it was true Fray Marron had -granted him permission to speak, he could not make use of it, in cases -so grave and criminal as the present—it was prohibited him by the -sacred canons of priesthood, to attest in such crimes, because it would -force him to say that which might condemn some, and so, he did not wish -to speak or declare in this case, not to fall into any error. Besides -being mindful that the Governor had brought seven Indians from the -peninsula at the time of his ransom, to this city, he could know and -understand from them all that they might claim. This he said, and I sign -it in his name.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Fray Francisco de Avila.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>In my presence—</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes</span>,<br /> -Notary Public.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Later—The Governor and Captain-General Gonzalo Menendez Canso, in order -to investigate, had appeared before him Gaspar de Salas, an interpreter -of the Indians of Guale who, having been sworn in the proper form, gave -promise to tell the truth and nothing but the truth—and that he would -declare all that he was ordered to say to the Indians who claim to give -information; that he will say and declare all that said Indians say in -reply, under the oath that he has taken.</p> - -<p>Later the Governor ordered to appear before him one of the seven Indians -who were brought from the peninsula, to whom the following questions -were put: From where do you come and what is your name? He came from -Tupique and that his name was Lucas. Are you a Christian? Yes. The name -of your parents, are they, or have they been Casiques? His father’s -name<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_41" id="page_41"></a>{41}</span> was Felipe, and he was Casique of Tupique. Where was he from? He -was a native of the town of Tupique. Had there been any priest there? -There had been one named Fray Blas Rodriguez. Tell and declare what had -become of Fray Bias? That about ten or eleven moons past, eight Casiques -held a conference, they were Asao, Tolafo, Atmehe, Fulo, Tupique and -Alnate. When night came they killed the Priest. A helping hand was given -them by a chief called Pisiache, that he might kill him with a hatchet, -with which he gave him a blow on the head, from which wound he died -almost immediately. Afterward they buried him in the church. Say and -declare what cause they had for killing this priest? That Micas and -Casiques said they killed him because he was artful and took away their -enchantment or witchcraft, and would not allow them to have more than -one wife.</p> - -<p>Did you hear them say anything else? No. Did he know Fray Miguel de -Annon, and Fray Antonio Lego, among the teachers of Guale, and Fray -Pedro de Corpa, among the teachers of Tolomato, and Fray Francisco de -Avila, among the teachers of Ospo?</p> - -<p>I have known them all, and they have been killed. Fray Miguel had his -hands tied behind him, but he did not know if they had killed him—Fray -Antonio was tied, but he does not know how he was killed—he had heard -it said that they killed him with wooden weapons, and that Fray Pedro -Corpa two Casiques had killed in the night while sleeping; that Fray -Francisco de Avila they had not killed, but had him captive near -Tolofino until he should be ransomed by the Governor.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_42" id="page_42"></a>{42}</span></p> - -<p>Was Fray Francisco well or ill-treated in the prison?</p> - -<p>Sometimes they beat him with sticks and abused him. They sometimes fed -him, but not always, and when they did it was on the leaves and tendrils -of vines.</p> - -<p>Had he seen or heard it said why they killed these Priests and -ill-treated Fray Francisco de Avila?</p> - -<p>He knew no more than what he had already stated, that the Micos and -Casiques said they were artful and did not wish them to have more than -one wife, and that they reproved them.</p> - -<p>Do you know where the ornaments belonging to the Church are, such as the -chalices and other things used by the priests?</p> - -<p>They were all divided up in such a way, that nothing is left of them.</p> - -<p>Was he present at the death of Fray Blas and the other priests when they -were killed?</p> - -<p>He arrived in time to see Fray Blas die—the others he had not seen, but -had heard it said that they had been killed as he stated above.</p> - -<p>Had he seen or heard any of his companions who were brought with him, -say they were present at the killing of the priests?</p> - -<p>One from Tolomato, named Francisco, he heard him say he had seen Fray -Pedro Corpa after he was killed—the rest he does not know.</p> - -<p>All this the said Gaspar Salas said and declared as interpreted under -the oath which he has taken. He does not sign because he does not know -how to write.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>In the presence of</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes</span>,<br /> -Notary Public.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_43" id="page_43"></a>{43}</span></p> - -<p>For further investigation of the above, the Governor and Captain-General -had appeared before him the other Indian, said to be named Francisco and -native of Tolomato, and by the said interpreter under oath had him -declare the following:</p> - -<p>Are you a Christian, and who are your parents?</p> - -<p>I am a Christian, my name is Francisco, my mother is nearly related to -the Casique and my father is dead.</p> - -<p>What priest was teacher at Tolomato?</p> - -<p>Fray Pedro Corpa, and I knew him there for some time.</p> - -<p>What became of Fray Pedro Corpa?</p> - -<p>He was killed while sleeping, with wooden weapons, and he was killed by -one of the chief Casiques of the Salcachecos.</p> - -<p>Did you see him killed, or were you present at his death?</p> - -<p>I was far away, but I heard it said that this Micos of Tolomato and Don -Juan, his heir, had sent to have him killed. I went there, but he was -already dead.</p> - -<p>Did the little dress which you wear belong to some religious of that -peninsula?</p> - -<p>Yes, but I do not know to which one, I ransomed it from one of the -Casiques.</p> - -<p>What was the cause of the killing of the priests?</p> - -<p>The cause was, that they reproved Don Juan, heir of Tolomato. By his -cunning he had the other Casiques meet with him, and there was an -uprising in the land, and these killings were done.</p> - -<p>Did you know Fray Miguel Annon, and Fray Antonio Lego in the conversion -and teachings of Guale, and Father Berahula, and Fray Francisco de -Avila?<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_44" id="page_44"></a>{44}</span></p> - -<p>I knew them all—they had been killed by the Indians, except Fray -Francisco de Avila, who was ransomed by the Governor.</p> - -<p>Tell and declare what manner of death they have given these religious?</p> - -<p>Fray Miguel and Fray Antonio Lego were killed with wooden weapons—he -had so heard it said—the others he did not know.</p> - -<p>While in prison was Fray Francisco de Avila well treated?</p> - -<p>I have heard it said that he was badly treated by the Indians of -Tolofino—they whipped him—the boys teased him. He ate badly, because -the Indians had little food, and some times he was forced to eat vines -and tendrils.</p> - -<p>Do you know where the ornaments of the Church are, and the other -belongings of the priests?</p> - -<p>All the ornaments and clothes of the priests were divided among them -all, and the Indians had carried them to their country inland.</p> - -<p>Do you know if any of the Indians with you here, were present at the -killing of the priests?</p> - -<p>I have heard it said that the Indian Lucas, son of Don Felipe, was -present when they killed Fray Blas—that about the others he does not -know. All of which the said Gaspar Salas Atiqui says and declares -according to his oath given, and because the Indian Francisco said so, -and did not sign because he did not know how.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>In the presence of</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes</span>,<br /> -Notary Public.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_45" id="page_45"></a>{45}</span></p> - -<p>Later the Governor had appear before him the Indian Bartolome, of the -Peninsula of Guale, who with other Indians was sent to the peninsula -with a message from him to the Micos and Casiques, to the better -ascertain, if any of the priests were still living. Although he had been -sent, he did not return with the message, until after the treaty for the -ransom of Fray Francisco de Avila. He stated that they would not let him -come—that he wanted to come and stay with the Governor; that he did not -wish to remain among the Indians, and through the interpreter, Atiqui, -he declared the following:</p> - -<p>Where are you from, and what is your name, and are you a Christian?</p> - -<p>My name is Bartolome; I am a Christian and a native of Tolomato. I was -sent about eight months ago, by this Governor, with a message to the -Micos and Casiques of the peninsula; they would not let me come back, -making threats that they would kill me.</p> - -<p>During the time you were in the peninsula tell what you know and heard -said of the killing of the priests; what kind of death they were given?</p> - -<p>I heard that Fray Pedro Corpa was killed at night in his cell, with -wooden weapons, and that Fray Miguel, Fray Antonio and Fray Blas were -also killed with wooden weapons. That Fray Francisco de Avila, who had -just been brought as ransom, was the first one taken prisoner. They -stuck him with their arrows, but God did not let him die of the wounds. -They would have killed him as they did the others but for the -intervention of the Casique of Tulapo, who took him from the Indians, -saying at the time that he was his father, and as such he would protect -him.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_46" id="page_46"></a>{46}</span></p> - -<p>What was the motive and cause of the killing?</p> - -<p>I heard it was because they reproved them; that the priests were crafty, -and did not care for them, and did not wish them to have more than one -wife.</p> - -<p>Where are the ornaments and appurtenances of the Church?</p> - -<p>They were divided among them, those from the interior carrying many, and -many were also broken, and the children tore and destroyed them.</p> - -<p>Did you hear it said whether Lucas, the son of the Casique Don Felipe, -or any of the other Indians brought in with you were present at the -killing of the priests?</p> - -<p>I heard that Lucas was there at the killing. I know nothing more.</p> - -<p>How was Fray Francisco de Avila treated while a prisoner?</p> - -<p>I have heard it said that in Tufina and Chacalaga the boys would chase -him through the streets perfectly naked and whip him with horsewhips, -and that he was starving to death, because the Indians had little to eat -themselves and gave him none. All this Gaspar Salas says and declares to -have been said by the Indian Bartolome under the oath which he has -taken, and it is the truth; he cannot sign, not knowing how to do so.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>In the presence of</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes</span>,<br /> -Notary Public.<br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>For further investigation of the above, the Governor and Captain-General -had appear before him another of the seven Indians who through the same -interpreter said and declared the following: (This declaration is not -given.)<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_47" id="page_47"></a>{47}</span></p> - -<p>In view of said declarations of these proceedings, the crime falls upon -Lucas the Indian, son of the Casique de Tuqui, for having been present -and participated in the killing of Fray Blas, who was sent to convert -the people of Tupiqui. I must condemn him by this my decree, sentenced -according to his declaration, with the penalty of death. The justice -which I order shall be done him is: That when he leaves the jail where -he now is, it shall be with a rope around his neck, his hands tied -behind him, and with a loud voice it must be proclaimed to the public -his crime; that he be taken to the gallows, already prepared for this -purpose, and that there he shall be hung by the neck and strangled until -dead. Because, thus is it well to punish with real justice those who -dare to commit such crimes, and as an example to the other Indian -natives of these provinces that they may not commit similar crimes. So -do I pronounce sentence and command. And if the said Lucas is not -mindful of receiving baptism and should not die repenting, and in the -Catholic faith, I order that he be hung and after his death his body be -burned to powder.</p> - -<p>Regarding the other six Indians detained for this cause, proceedings -will not continue for the present against them—they being boys under -age. We shall so send and notify the Indian Lucas.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<div class="blockquot"><p>Alonzo Diaz de Badajoz, Sergeant-Major of this Fort and Garrison of -St. Augustine: </p></div> - -<p>I order you by this sentence, which will be shown you by Juan Ximenes, -Notary Public, against the Indian Lucas, prisoner in this city, that he<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_48" id="page_48"></a>{48}</span> -shall be executed as is stated in this sentence, because it so pleaseth -his Majesty. This execution is done in justice to his Majesty, and must -be so accomplished.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, July 29th, 1598.</p> - -<p class="r"> -Notary Public.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Before me</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Ximenes</span>.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_49" id="page_49"></a>{49}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1600.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Letter from Father Francisco Parga to the King, as one of eleven -monks sent out by his Majesty to spread the Gospel—Eighty churches -in different Missions—Complaint of lazy Indians—Avarice of the -Governor causes dissatisfaction and suffering among the garrison -and impedes the work—Unnecessary war with Indians—People desire -the Governors removal—Fray Baltazar Lopez has labored for twelve -years converting many Indians, among them the Casique, Don Juan, -who stands highly among his people and has quelled many -uprisings—Letter from Juan Nunez Rios—Complains of Governor—Who -allows one Juan Garcia to represent him—People forced to buy of -this Garcia who takes all advantages—Begs for an open port that -the people may be allowed to go back and forth and trade—Antonio -Menendez Canso writes to his Majesty complaining of injustice by -the Governor, and asks to be allowed to serve his Majesty -elsewhere—Letter to his Majesty from Fray Blas De Montes imploring -that he may be allowed to come to Spain for retirement—Gives -account of a fire which burned the church among other -houses—Reports slow progress with the Indians and advises that a -Bishop be sent to administer sacrament of confirmation—Report of -Gonzalo Menendez Canso to his Majesty—A shipmaster bearing -dispatches<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_50" id="page_50"></a>{50}</span> from New Spain shipwrecked in a dreadful storm—He and -his crew escape in a boat—Governor aids them from the Royal -treasury—Arrival of the Auditor for his Majesty—Garrison -abounding in fruits and grain—Death of a Christian Indian, Don -Juan—Fray Lopez returns from New Spain in good health—Money -brought to establish a hospital—More money needed for Garrison -expenses—Report of Francisco Redondo Villegas, Officer of Customs -and Auditor for his Majesty—Complains of not being treated with -the respect due to Royal officers—Finds affairs in a muddled -condition—Soldiers well drilled—Much land under cultivation which -will be needed as wages are small and rations insufficient.</i> </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Patron Letter From Fray Francisco Parga, of the San Franciscan Order, to -the King.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>This is a duplicate of a letter sent your Majesty by a vessel which left -this port of St. Augustine in the month of February of this year via -Havana. I wrote giving an account as I was one of the eleven monks sent -by your Majesty to spread the Gospel and teach the natives of this -country. When we arrived we were assigned to different places or posts, -each one trying his utmost and best to do what he could for the -redemption of these souls. It being such an arduous and difficult life, -having to traverse on foot, bad roads, with little or nothing to eat at -times, that little fruit has yet been yielded, although the harvest, -which we hope eventually to reap for the Lord, is worth the trials and -sacrifices made, as we know that<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_51" id="page_51"></a>{51}</span> He suffered death and passion to -redeem the souls and rejoiceth over the salvation of one; how much more -should we be willing to suffer for the conversion of so many souls as -there are in this country and whom we hope to save with the help of God? -And so I say that while your Majesty has control of these lands as the -Religious have charge of this Garrison in time of need, and they also -help to support the Church under their care and the ornaments and other -things necessary for the worship of the Divine Lord, not having for this -purpose any income from your Royal Finance. There are more than eighty -churches which have been built in the different missions and others -under construction. We are moved to do this to encourage the Indians who -are incapable of good conceptions and obedience. They have always had -their ministry so that they listen with little appreciation to what we -preach and teach, in grave detriment to the poor newly converted -Indians, notwithstanding that our teaching and converting accrues to -their own good, as we aid and provide for them in their time of hunger, -and when crops have failed. The Indians are so lazy and improvident that -if we did not take care of the crops after planting they would have -nothing. They do not even save the seed for another planting. Of the -Governor I wish to say as little as possible, but the misery, impediment -and calamities among Indians and Christians is due to his avarice, and -if the poor Spaniards who are in the Garrison of St. Augustine had not -the hope that your Majesty would be informed in some way and send them -relief from the fearful calamity which this Garrison is suffering, the -affliction among the married men as well as the single<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_52" id="page_52"></a>{52}</span> would become -unendurable. They dare not, under any circumstances, send you -information, as it would cost them their lives, and so they have prayed -and implored me as Chaplain, who live from day to day upon the charity -of your Royal Treasury, and have to render a strict account or others -would slander us, and our account of the war and other matters must be -true. The war with the Indians where many have been killed and many -brought in as prisoners was uncalled for and the Indians at “Cabeza de -Martyres” are much incensed. As it is a place where many vessels are -wrecked, the Spaniards have taken whole crews and kept them until -ransomed. We fear the Indians of that place will do much damage to -vessels passing to and fro. We feel very sorry that the present Governor -has shown so much anger and resentment towards the Indians and has sent -your Majesty such meagre accounts of the true condition of this -Garrison. It is swampy, little inhabited by Indians, and the roads -difficult to traverse. The Bar is a rough one; there are said to be -better ones on this coast towards the north. I have not seen them, but -have heard through Fray Baltazar Lopez, Vicar of that Island, who has -been there for twelve years working in the conversion of souls, with -other Friars who came with him, and who have left for New Spain. He -alone remains at his post, much encouraged, as he has mastered the -Indian language; it is of great help to him in preaching. He has -converted many who frequent the sacraments of confession and communion. -Had it not been for him and through his persuasions, having converted -and taught the Casique Don Juan, there would have been a terrible -uprising among the Indians,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_53" id="page_53"></a>{53}</span> and probably not a Spaniard left. Thus, by -the industry and influence of Fray Baltazar over Don Juan, who is highly -in favor of Christianity and all civilized ideas, this trouble was -averted. Don Juan has sent relief to the people of this garrison in -times of famine. I recognize in Fray Baltazar that spiritual zeal for -the service of God and your Majesty that this land may be converted, -increase in civilization and aggrandize your kingdom. As Fray Baltazar’s -experience is of long standing, it has been decided that he write to -your Majesty and give a full account of all the happenings. To this -letter of his, which I shall remit to your Majesty, you can give full -credit, as he speaks scientifically and from long experience.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"><i>Your Majesty</i>:</p> - -<p>As a final remedy and forced by necessity and worry which we poor -citizens of this garrison suffer ever since the arrival of Gonzalo -Menendez Canso, we come to implore you, as King and Christian, not to -permit that your subjects and vassals be so ill treated and afflicted by -those who govern here, since your Majesty in your Cedulas always orders -the contrary. There being no corporation as in other cities of like size -to whom we can appeal for protection, I take the liberty of writing -this. We have not done so before, and gone on suffering all that is -possible for us to suffer, because we understood you had been informed -by other parties, and we hoped and waited daily to be delivered by your -sending some one else who would proceed in a different manner, and thus -we poor citizens would receive better treatment at his hands,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_54" id="page_54"></a>{54}</span> and -enable us to proceed in better condition to advance your interests which -have been decreasing and losing ever since the said Governor came. Much -of the land that was gained from the Indians, and who themselves had -become quiet and peaceful, has been lost. I came to this country in the -year 1568, twenty years ago, with others from your Kingdom, to aid and -succor, as was commanded by your Majesty in transferring us to these -Provinces, having assisted and served in them on all occasions which -have presented themselves at Port Elena and St. Augustine. I married a -daughter of one of the settlers who was here and had come enthused by -the promises made by the previous Governors, but who spent his life -eking out a meagre existence for his wife and children by taking -advantage of the license which at that time was granted the citizens of -going abroad to seek work which was so much needed. This Governor has -withdrawn this license and forces us to remain in the town proper. The -town is frequently left to the government of his cousin who calls -himself Juan Garcia and whom he brought with him to this Province with a -large stock of merchandise which he sells at exorbitant prices and he, -the Governor, collects all payments. Before this Governor came we were -paid off, but since his assumption of affairs he forces us to buy all we -need of this cousin, and the Governor informs us that if we do not obey -his order in this we must go without. On pay day he keeps all our pay -saying we have already spent it. If one of the soldiers is sick -requiring anything and sends to ask for money<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_55" id="page_55"></a>{55}</span> to get the needed -medicine the Governor refuses to give it, forcing him to buy it of Juan -Garcia. All law suits or troubles of any kind which arise are brought -before the Governor by this same Juan Garcia, who seems to be supreme. -It is understood that the vast estate is a joint one of Juan Garcia and -Governor Menendez Canso. My house was burned, as can be testified by any -of the inhabitants, fearing to notify Juan Garcia of the fact. I sent to -him and asked him with all due respect to come, accompanied by the -Mayor, who is the only representative of the law, and see the condition -I was in. For this act he has levied upon me for fifty maravedies and -six months’ imprisonment in the Fort. That I must appear before him, and -he has worried me in many other ways. He has taken from us the only -means of making a living for our wives and children and refuses to grant -us any rights whatsoever, except those which in your Cedula are so plain -he is obliged to grant them. And yet he grants all rights to Mexico. It -is a great injustice not to allow us the same privileges. We trust that -being so far from us and it takes so long to inform you, that you will -have mercy upon us and immediately send some one to replace this -Governor. One who will treat us with more kindness and justice. We -implore you to grant the privileges of an open port, that we may be -allowed to go back and forth and trade, so as to enable us to make a -living. Others would write to you imploring the same grace, only all -fear to do so, as we run great risk of having the Governor intercept our -letters.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_56" id="page_56"></a>{56}</span> I send this at the risk of my life. There are many more things -upon which I could enlighten you, but fear prevents us from doing so, -and we trust your Majesty will send us relief as speedily as possible.</p> - -<p>God preserve the Royal Person of your Catholic Majesty for many years, -as christianity has need of it.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Nunez Rios.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 19th, 1600.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>While serving your Majesty in this Garrison of St. Augustine, Florida, -as Captain of one of the companies with the title given me by General -Menendez Canso, it is the same position my father served previously for -a year and a half before the work and place was turned over to me as -your Majesty’s service required. Later Lieutenant Alvarez Hernando Metas -having arrived with certain dispatches regarding my father, who had -preceded me, the Governor, without giving any reason or consulting me in -any way, has taken the company from me and given it to Lieutenant Metas, -who is at present serving. The Governor has only said to me that he -wished to employ me in other services of your Majesty for which reason I -am detained in this Province on half pay. Although I have asked -permission to serve on the Armada and assist in any way I am ordered, as -is my duty, he will not allow me to do so, but detains me here. I -implore you to send me orders if only to be in the infantry of this -Garrison; anything until I am ordered elsewhere, to serve your Majesty. -This is my profession and I have always followed it, and for which I -shall<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_57" id="page_57"></a>{57}</span> always hope to receive special encomiums from your Majesty, whom -I pray our Lord will bless and protect and preserve from all harm.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Antonio Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., 26th ——, 1600.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>In other letters I have written to your Majesty I have given an account -of the fire we had on the 14th of March of last year, 1599, in this -city. Among other houses burned with the church was ours and we came to -the hospital for shelter, where we still are, and I implore your Majesty -to rebuild our house. The seven hundred ducats required to repair and -cover the house which was burned, and which we hope you will send us, -will be placed in deposit with the treasurer of this Province until a -decision has been reached regarding this country. On account of its -ruined and barren condition it is incapable of maintaining so many -natives as there are, and as was demonstrated the other day, many seem -to think they will order this Garrison removed to another part more -advantageous. Should this be the case, your servants will advise you at -once of all that occurs.</p> - -<p>In the report I give you of the Indians I must say, my Lord, that we -make little progress and are but poorly esteemed by them. The fault must -lie in us, as there will no doubt be those who will so report it to your -Majesty. The good esteem which I am ordered to have for the Governor I -shall comply with in every respect except that I shall not lose my -rights; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page_58" id="page_58"></a>{58}</span>sending out the Friars to convert and teach the doctrine, I -have always observed the order given by your Majesty with the title of -Royal Patron. Since it is a truth perfectly well known that no Friar has -been sent by me or my predecessors to convert and teach without the -permission and sanction of the Governor, and should it become necessary -I will so make him confess this truth, which he well knows, as there are -so few of us he cannot ignore it, as we eat from his hands at all times. -If this country is to be increased and civilized it would be well to -send a Bishop here, as it is quite necessary to administer the sacrament -of confirmation; therefore, for the peace of those who live here, it -would be well for your Majesty to consider and provide as you see fit -and God would wish. There is nothing a man can desire more than the -salvation of his soul, for this it seems to me urgent that I should -retire from this work and take shelter where I can obtain this end, -serving in quietude your Majesty. For this I beg and humbly implore your -Majesty to send me a permit to go to Spain, as I feel assured of the -little success I can obtain by remaining in this country. May our -blessed Lord preserve your Majesty in peace and love, Yours,</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Fray Blas de Montes.</span><br /> -St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 25th, 1600.<br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Lordship</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>On the 13th there arrived in this city Diego Ramirez, a citizen of -Triana of Sevilla, a second class shipmaster from New Spain, sent by -your Viceroy and Royal Officers from San Juan de Ullva. On entering<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_59" id="page_59"></a>{59}</span> the -Bahama channel he was overtaken by a dreadful storm, his vessel sprung a -leak and took in so much water they were forced to make for the nearest -land which was on the coast of this Province about one hundred and -eighty leagues from this city to the north, about thirty-four degrees, -more or less, where, on entering a port, the vessel was completely -wrecked and the Master made his escape in one of the boats with the -papers and dispatches for your Majesty and also some private letters. -Coming along the coast, landing at night until he reached the Province -of Guale, where last year the Indians had killed two Friars. There he -found two vessels in the service of this Garrison which had been sent to -carry three or four Casiques, two of them men of great influence in -their tribes, who had come to implore mercy for themselves and others -for the terrible crime they had committed. I now have them quiet and -pacified. These natives carried the master to the ships of this Garrison -where he and his men were given shelter and brought to this City.</p> - -<p>The natives also gave them what relief they could. On the arrival here -of the Master he told me of the dispatches he brought for your Majesty -and which he understood were of much importance as they had learned in -New Spain that Chinese, English and Flemish were settling there. He -asked me for passage for himself and men, for any dispatches I might -have for your Majesty and any private mail. He also asked for the means -of sustenance from your Royal Treasury, for himself and men, as they had -lost all. Considering the importance of the dispatches and papers, and -that you might receive them with the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_60" id="page_60"></a>{60}</span> utmost speed, I granted their -request and also gave them a change of clothes. He did not wish to go to -Havana on account of the variable winds and so, as I had a frigate in -Port just suitable for the purpose, I fitted it out against the wishes -of its owners, to whom I paid the cost of the trip which three pilots -assured me would amount to one thousand ducats, not counting the -maintenance of the Master and his men. I felt it my duty to aid them -from your Royal Treasury, as they were shipwrecked and there was no one -in this country who could raise a subscription to supply their wants, -all being soldiers or men who have no employment. An account of this may -be kept by the judges and officers in Sevilla against this Province. -Pedro Redondo Villegas, Auditor of the Artillery of Havana, whom your -Majesty nominated to come here to straighten the accounts of this -Province, arrived and has commenced his work. He tells me that he is -notifying your Majesty of all and calling your attention to some. He -says that having notified me of the Royal balance made to Juan -Sebadilla, deceased, being as it is, a large sum, it will be well that -you send a bill, stating what must be done about its collection. Captain -Alonzo de las Alas has not yet satisfied his balance because while -investigating his accounts in virtue of the royal decree of appointments -and of which he was in charge, was suspended for four years. In accounts -taken of different royal officers, they have paid up many losses against -your royal estate. I had noticed this and when the accountant Pedro -Redondo arrived I suspended these payments until he could look into them -and I shall point out to him the result of what I found in them.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_61" id="page_61"></a>{61}</span></p> - -<p>On the eighth of February of this year I rendered your Majesty an -account of how I sent the collections to your Treasurer, Juan Menendez -Marquez. This time the causes made known in the letter which arrived at -this Port on the 21st of this month with four vessels and their cargo of -provisions, ammunition and money collected from the allowance was too -late, so that hereafter your Royal order set forth in Cedule will be -obeyed.</p> - -<p>This Garrison and territory is at present abounding in the fruits of the -earth—corn and other vegetables. Having encouraged and aided in -cultivating the land our Lord has seen proper to give us the most -fertile year ever known in these Provinces. On the 16th of this month -Don Juan, Casique of the Province of San Pedro, died—the one your -Majesty was so kind to in sending him two hundred ducats which were -given him. I feel his death very much as he was one of the most faithful -and influential in this Territory; he was sagacious and practical, -having faith, and agreed in all that you ordered. He died as a good -Christian, receiving the sacraments and giving a good example at the -hour of his death to all the Indians and natives. His niece becomes his -heir; according to their custom the nieces and nephews become the heirs -and not the children.</p> - -<p>Fray Baltazar Lopez, of the Franciscan order, has arrived from New -Spain. He was crippled and sick, so I gave him permission to go to New -Spain where he was cured and has regained his health which has been a -great happiness for me as he is greatly needed in the conversion. He has -brought many to a realization of the truth of Christianity, and I trust -in God he<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_62" id="page_62"></a>{62}</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<a href="images/ill_pg_062_lg.jpg"> -<img src="images/ill_pg_062.jpg" width="500" height="280" alt="Image -unavailable: Land Approach to Fort Marion." /></a> -<br /> -<span class="caption">Land Approach to Fort Marion.</span> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_63" id="page_63"></a>{63}</span></p> - -<p class="nind">may keep well and continue his good work. In this I try to aid him as -much as possible and with some of the officers and soldiers go to visit -the Indians from time to time to assure them of our good will and to -trade with them. They have just brought from New Spain the five hundred -ducats your Majesty gave in charity to the hospital of this City, -established for the benefit of the poor soldiers of this Garrison. They -also brought five hundred more from Mexico for the Franciscan Convent, -and we have also given to said Convent two thousand eight hundred and -forty-two reals which were in this Treasury and which were found on the -beach of San Mateo from some of the vessels wrecked on that shore, and -although your Royal Cedula said it should be three thousand and -forty-two reals and a half, the Royal Officers have not been able to -find that much on your books, only the amount stated above which was -delivered to them for the repairs of the convent. If your Majesty wishes -to obtain information regarding Jacon from England you must ask for it -by the name of Virginia which is the name given it by the English; if -you inquire for Jacon you will get no satisfaction. I send with this a -duplicate of the letter written you on February 28th by Pedro Alvarez -Castillon via Havana, on the fleet in command of General Sancho Pardo, -and as the sea is an uncertain thing I send a duplicate. The frigate -which carries this paper and those of the Auditor, Pedro Redondo, -belongs to Pedro Gonzales, of Havana, who also goes on her. Should you -wish to send dispatches for this Province, Havana or New Spain, this -vessel is very appropriate; it is good, small, and sails fast, being of -only fifteen tons, and Pedro Gonzales<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_64" id="page_64"></a>{64}</span> is perfectly familiar with all -this coast and is a practical and experienced sailor and can be trusted -with anything you wish to send by him. I cannot fail to remind you to -grant me a reasonable sum for expenditures of this Garrison, as the -expenses are so heavy I am obliged to implore this grace of your -Majesty.</p> - -<p>May God preserve you in health for the good of Christianity.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Gonzalo Menendez Canso.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., June 28th, 1600.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>I wrote your Majesty by General Sancho Pardo, giving full and detailed -account of how I had arranged matters and placed in office as Auditor of -the Custom House, of this City, Pedro Redondo, my son, a person -perfectly trustworthy, competent and reliable. I have done everything -according to your Majesty’s orders. I came to the Province of Florida on -the fleet, as you graciously ordered me to investigate the accounts of -your Royal Officers and other employees. I arrived in Florida on the -29th of March, presented my commissions, which were accepted by the -Governor, Gonzalo Menendez. On the 14th of April, after making all -inquiries necessary regarding the accounts, I commenced to investigate, -not meeting from the Officers that respect which is shown by the army -and navy to your Royal employees. Their books being in such a disordered -condition, it will take more time than I calculated to finish these -investigations, but I will accomplish them with all possible speed. As I -have informed your Majesty through others who the persons are, having to -give account and the many and<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_65" id="page_65"></a>{65}</span> arduous difficulties encountered, there -being among auditors, agents and shipmasters, about twenty persons—it -will take a longer time to accomplish, although I came quite encouraged -and desirous of finishing speedily so as to return to Havana to attend -the grand artillery review and take my command. I left town for the term -of one year, but find I shall be unable to complete these investigations -in that time, as it is impossible to leave them in the muddled condition -they are at present. Doctor Juan Gonzales, of the Royal Court of the -Indias, has told me he could obtain with the consent of the Governor, a -prerogative. I implore your Majesty will send this prerogative and see -and notify me as to what I am to do. As I have been here so short a time -I cannot inform you of all that you ordered me to investigate. All I can -say at present is that there are about two hundred and fifty soldiers in -this Garrison; they are good and well drilled and disciplined; that the -Governor has planted and under cultivation many acres of land, which -will be a great help in the sustenance of these people, who are mostly -married, and whose small wages and rations given them does not suffice -for their support. They certainly need this grain. Besides others, -seeing the good results and what good land it is, are following the -example and are clearing and planting fields. With the cutting down of -the timber it has done away with the vast quantities of mosquitoes and -has helped to improve the City, as one sees on all sides houses in -course of construction. The greatest difficulty I find is the difference -existing between the Officers of the Royal command and the people. As -you have ordered that all should obey them, they are overbearing, as<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_66" id="page_66"></a>{66}</span> -occurs in many other places. If you could devise some remedy for this, -all would go well. I shall continue to keep you advised of all that -occurs, especially on the matter of investigations and as to who the -guilty parties may be. May God grant you a long life of prosperity.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco Redondo Villegas.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Florida, April 18th, 1600.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_67" id="page_67"></a>{67}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1605-1608.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Minutes of a Bull to be presented to the Holy See, asking -concession of graces and powers for Catholic residents in -Florida—Minorcan families brought a Priest and Monk with them, and -wish privileges and new license granted—Instructions as to duties -on wine—Priests and Monks of Tasco use municipal monies for their -own interests—Advises change in office of Treasurer of the Royal -chest—Loss of vessels carrying papers for his Majesty—People of -the Kingdom gratified at favor shown by his Majesty to Don -Francisco—Letter from Pedro Ibarra to his Majesty—Insufficient -support for the Garrison—A widow, who was the wife of two Army -Captains, in need—Two poor soldiers find amber in a fish for which -Menendez exacted a duty—Anxiety on account of French and English -pirates—Some taken prisoners and ten hanged—Several Casiques and -chiefs visit Augustine—Are impressed with religious services and -procession—Ask for Friars to return to their country with them to -instruct their people—Asks for men to assist in building a fort at -the mouth of Miguel Moro—Has made inquiry as to origin and source -of River San Mateo and Lake Miami—A Garrison of warlike -people—Proposition to establish a Manager of the Inquisition to -control them—Does not wish to let go certain Priest and -Captain—Report of Juan<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_68" id="page_68"></a>{68}</span> Menendez Marquez to the King—Deplores the -decision to reduce the Garrison—Advises return to the policy of -Pedro Menendez, his cousin—Desires permission to go to Spain to -more fully lay the matter before his Majesty.</i></p> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1605.<br /> -</p></div> - -<p>Minutes of the Bull or Supplication which the Minister of this Court in -Rome should present to the Holy See, asking for the concession of new -graces and powers in favor of the Catholic residents in Florida, which -precepts have been formulated by the Judge complying with the Royal -Decree of your Majesty in consultation with the Council.</p> - -<p>As formal instructions they should state that these Minorcan families -transmigrated to Florida under the English dominion, but with the free -use and privilege of their Catholic Religion. They carried with them as -spiritual directors Don Pedro Campos, secular Priest, and Padre -Bartolome Casanovas, a Monk, that these, for the legitimate discharge of -their Ministerial duties, repair to the Holy See, begging they be -constituted Pastor of that flock, dispensing them all the powers -necessary, that your Holiness benignantly accede to their urgent -petition, to grant them different privileges and powers, among others -the administering to that Catholic people all the sacraments, even those -not Parochial, except confirmation and Orders, extending this privilege -for a term of three years when they shall obtain a new license from the -superior Prelates or Bishop nearest to Florida. That is what has been -done, because I have received a new Cedula from your Majesty ordering -that the proceeds of the duties on<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_69" id="page_69"></a>{69}</span> wine should not be spent on anything -but the bringing of water. I cease, satisfied, that before suspending -the execution of this Cedula. I shall take time to inform your Majesty -that it was necessary for me to avail myself of this money for these -purposes. I do not at present send an account, until I can send it -finished, that it may not be a work which the Viceroy may consider -impossible to accomplish at so small a cost. I beg of your Majesty to -consider it. Otherwise I shall obey to the letter this Cedula and I -await your reply. Not receiving a reply, I shall take for granted that -your Majesty is satisfied. Being so general and important in this -Kingdom the practise of other business, and there being a possibility of -misunderstanding in this matter, I resolved to visit some of the -vineyards of this kingdom, and so I went to Tasco, some twenty-eight -leagues from this city, taking advantage of the Christmas holidays, not -to lose any time from my ordinary business, it has been of great -advantage as I can state just how these things are conducted. I have -stated to your Majesty in other letters, the municipality of this City -is not governed as it should be, because the Priests or Monks think more -of their own interests, reducing all to their own profit. As this takes -place the Royal Officers cannot ordinarily attend the meetings, it would -be well that the Viceroy should elect four persons of the best standing -and principles upon whom your Majesty should bestow Government offices -and that the Viceroy should oblige them to accept, for at least four -months in the year, giving them precedence after the Royal Officers, and -thus assure their attention to matters which are looked upon -indifferently in one of the best Cities you possess, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_70" id="page_70"></a>{70}</span> which is -improving each day. If the Council will consider this proposition and -your Majesty pleases to execute it.</p> - -<p>The Decree sent by me and the Official documents for the high notaries -of Government and legislative bodies of this Audience and particularly -for the notaries of the Treasury, that they might transact some -important business which was taken from the books and have been badly -attended to because there is no one to be solicitous about this matter, -and it not belonging to the duties of the Judge, it is neglected as are -other affairs. It becomes obligatory to find some faithful and -trustworthy person of influence to take charge of this Office and assign -them a salary of $800.00 a year. Show and make them understand the -anxiety which I feel concerning it and how it retards other business. -Being new in my Office I have not cared to assign any one until I had a -license from your Majesty for doing so. I shall await your decision. It -seems to me the salary could be assigned through the Legislature, and if -they neglect their duties discharge them.</p> - -<p>In New Vera Cruz, Pedro Casco Calderon has been serving as Treasurer of -the Royal Chest by nomination of your Majesty, he also occupied other -Offices in Spain. He is old, the many years of service at that Post and -the conduct of his wife, have disturbed his mind; he is also running a -butcher shop and other enterprises not in accordance with the Royal -Office. The situation is such that nothing should be concealed from you. -In being served you might give him some small Office at home, and I -should remove him to some other place, if I did not understand the -necessity of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_71" id="page_71"></a>{71}</span> his attending to his estate, which is in that -neighborhood, and all his other profitable enterprises.</p> - -<p>The first registered vessel was lost on the coast of Campeachy, and -although the Papers for your Majesty were taken out, they had been under -water so long that they were useless, scarcely legible. The second -vessel of advice was taken by the French on its return from Saona, and -they stripped it of everything, leaving vessel and crew in such a ruined -condition they could proceed no further than Santo Domingo. Seeing that -they were lost they threw the papers for your Majesty overboard. Thus it -becomes necessary that one and the other be duplicated. Your Majesty -will please see that the person in Sevilla who has charge of these -vessels be careful of the person to whom he entrusts these Documents as -so far the person in charge does not seem to understand their -importance, and so, it is only miraculous that we get them at all. It -has been very gratifying to all in this Kingdom the favor shown by your -Majesty to Don Francisco. I trust he will serve you well and faithfully. -It is prohibited that an Alderman should serve a private individual -under penalty of losing his Office. In this city Don Luis Maldona, son -of Maldona who was Judge of this Supreme Court, has a regiment. On -account of his talent and the good services he can render I have him -occupied in my service, and that he may not fall under the penalty of -the law I implore your Majesty to send him a permit that he may attend -to both, or a license that he may resign his place in the regiment and -serve your Majesty otherwise, on a salary that you shall name. I -consider the first plan best. Don Luis Valasco has arrived and<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_72" id="page_72"></a>{72}</span> I -thought best to introduce him and have some attention bestowed upon him, -on account of his position. I shall show him all respect and visit him, -feeling sure you will thus be well served. The case is free of -consequences. Having sent you a letter of dispatch through the Supreme -Court of Castile stating that Dr. Lievana will go over to that Kingdom -and render an account of the expenses of the residence and trip of the -first Lieutenant of Assistencia of Sevilla. Dr. Lievana acted as Mayor -in the interim between the death of Señor Trufillo and your appointing -Don Francisco de Onate. He is a person who will render you good service, -he can be relied on, is among the noblest here, and could fill any -office. I have detained this vessel that I might inform you of the -departure of the vessel for the Philippines.</p> - -<p>May God preserve you for many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">The Marquez of Montes Claras.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Mexico, March 31st, 1605.</p> - -<p class="c"> -(There is a Rubrica.)<br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1605.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire:</i><br /> -</p> - -<p>I sent your Majesty one of your royal Cedulas dated in Valladolid, April -3rd, in which I laid before your Majesty the necessity and want these -poor married men are in. It is impossible for them to support -themselves; there are seven and eight in a family to be fed on the -father’s rations. As I have before stated to you, it would be a great -charity as well as a service to God to help them that they may not -perish. This may be remedied when the other people arrive. I can<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_73" id="page_73"></a>{73}</span> then -give permission to the valetudinarians and sick to return home, your -Majesty having sent as a reward for so many years of service the means -to defray the cost of the voyage. I can give according to the condition -of each one and to the married men who remain here in service please -order an extra half ration for each child with some other slight -assistance while they serve as soldiers and their daughters are too -young to marry. I assure you that aside from being a great charity it -will be no more than justice, as they are among the best soldiers I have -ever seen on land or sea. Among the necessities your Majesty may see -proper to relieve is the suffering of a lady of standing, widow of two -captains who served many years in this Province and who had charge of it -in the absence of the Governors. Aid given here will be one of the -greatest of charities, as before stated. The negroes who were here for -over forty years, working in the Havana forces, have died, and it will -be well to send about a dozen more and three or four negro women.</p> - -<p>Your order that I should not collect from the New Spain more than was -necessary I have carried out so far, and I wish to remind you to send a -trustworthy accountant as the one at present occupying that office is -not fitted for it. During the residence of Gonzalo Menendez Canso, the -Treasurer, Juan Menendez, asked and exacted that duty should be paid -your Majesty on some amber which Bartolaine Perez and Gaspar Martin, -soldiers, had found in a fish’s craw, and with promises which Gonzalo -Menendez made the soldiers, he palliated them and said the duty must be -paid according to one of the chapters of royal instruction. At that time -we could not ascertain if it<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_74" id="page_74"></a>{74}</span> were true. The said soldiers had already -put in a plea to the said Gonzalo Menendez and as interested parties -could not be witnesses in these investigations. The other person through -whose hands it must pass was Lieutenant Fabeicio Lopez, and he was not -here. He has returned now and makes the accompanying declaration, which -you can place with the declaration of the soldiers, and you can have -your duties and give the soldiers what was taken from them, not allowing -them to make a manifestation. The Treasurer has asked me to let him use -a permit he has to go to that kingdom on business and solicitations. I -have not allowed him to use it, because we are so much in need of men -and there are so few I can put my hand on in case of need. God protect -your Majesty.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pedro Ibarra</span>.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Dec. 26th, 1605, St. Augustine, Florida.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1607.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>In a letter of the 22nd of January of the present year, which was sent -from Havana with a notice of the death of Governor Don Pedro Acuna I -have forwarded you, I have also notified you of what I thought of doing -with the French and English pirates I held as prisoners. One day after -the departure of the boat I sent to have them hanged, using with them -such religious treatment as is customary. Ten of them were baptized, the -others stated they had already been baptized. It seems that all died as -Christians, so that this whole City with their fraternities turned out -to lay them out and bury them. I only wish that with<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_75" id="page_75"></a>{75}</span> these pirates we -might put an end to them all on these coasts. There are so many they -keep me in great anxiety and I implore you to send me people to destroy -them. I have every one on this coast enlisted to aid in their -destruction. But my experience is that many have not only sheltered -them, saved their lives and estates, but continue to serve them and -allow them to come and go at will. They come from a distance of a -hundred leagues with all confidence and safety. This week, which is Holy -week, I have had here several Casiques and Chiefs who are the lords of -the mouth of Miguel Mora, where, I have before told you, we should erect -a fort and from there capture the fleet of Charles. I shall tell you the -names of these Casiques that you may know who they are and the great -achievement I have made in gaining their services. They have returned to -their country dressed and very happy and edified with the religious -services and processions they have witnessed during this Holy season. -They ask for Friars to instruct them. I told them I would come there to -visit them. I notify you that this is the time that with more security -and less cost a fort could be built there; they themselves would act as -peons, and if possible to do so I would myself ask that from Havana they -would send me an engineer and eighty men with two launches. Look into -this, as I am quite sure they would all lend themselves to serve in the -building, as they would feel safe all along that coast from the -invasions of the enemy. The other Provinces are very peaceful. With the -warriors, silver miners and woodmen I have so long asked your Majesty to -send me. I trust in God that we can touch with our hands the great -wealth we surely have<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_76" id="page_76"></a>{76}</span> in the interior of this land. All this I ask of -you I am moved to do by the zeal to serve you and enlarge your estate -and not for rest or gain. From all these parts I have had here this week -over five hundred Indians, and, God knows, to make them understand it, -will require more men than I have in our Order to guide them.</p> - -<p>In a letter of September 23rd your Majesty commands me to make every -possible inquiry to know the origin and source of the River San Mateo -and Lake Miami. As I have always tried to make inquiries, about six -months ago I discovered on the southern coast a river which I have had -examined by three different pilots, and find that it has nine fathoms of -water at the entrance of a much wider river. I notified your Majesty of -this new river. This garrison is composed of a warlike people and the -Friars of San Francisco are thinking of establishing a Manager of the -Inquisition to subject them and control their passions. When I came here -these warriors were in great want and I have come to an agreement -together with the Royal Officers, that we should have Juan Nunez go to -Castilla and try to make terms with some merchant to remedy these -occurrences. To Fray Pedro Ruiz they have brought an Order from your -Majesty in which you command me to let him go to Castilla on account of -his age and failing health; that he is of no further use. It seems to me -this Friar has not been here so many years and he is perfectly sound and -fresh and robust, never having had so much as a headache.</p> - -<p>Captain Alonzo de las Alas has presented me a Cedula from your Majesty -which gives him permission<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_77" id="page_77"></a>{77}</span> to go to Castilla for a term of two years -and that during that time he is to receive no salary. He claims that it -is an oversight in not appointing some one in his place and allowing him -to draw his salary as heretofore and which is just, because whoever -takes his place is entitled to half of his pay, and for this it will be -necessary that your Majesty order Bartolome Arruchas to return to his -Post as the permit granted him by your Majesty has expired.</p> - -<p>God protect your Majesty.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pedro Ibarra.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>May 16th, 1607, St. Augustine, Fla.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1608.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Lordship:</i><br /> -</p> - -<p>Through a letter of September 20th of last year, 1602, and an account -rendered the Bishop of Cuba (the past year of 1606) who came to confirm -the Spanish Christians not yet confirmed and the native Indians of these -Provinces, I told him all that I thought would be most convenient to the -service of God our Lord and your Majesty regarding the conversion of -this Garrison to which I again refer, it having come to my knowledge -that your Royal Council did not repeat it to you, fearing to tire or -annoy you. Now, on learning the resolution you have taken of reforming -this Garrison and reducing it to one hundred and fifty infantry, I am -sure you have listened to the advice of persons who have never seen this -coast, nor do they know anything about the interior of the country, nor -the great benefits which have been accomplished in the conversion of the -natives who are idolaters and savages, hesitating at no crime however -horrible.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_78" id="page_78"></a>{78}</span></p> - -<p>If Gonzalo Menendez Canso were moved with the true zeal of God and a -proper desire to serve your Majesty it would have been no more than just -that when he first assumed control of this Government he should have -given you a full and detailed account of the existing state of affairs -and sought your advice and not waited until he was quite sure that his -Office was to be filled by some one else.</p> - -<p>Again, I decided to write this to implore you to consider and look -closely into the matters upon which I have advised you and which I have -done in all truth and fidelity as I am obliged to for my King. Knowing -also that the King of glorious memory, your father, had more trouble and -combats than at present on account of economy and the abandoning of this -Garrison, he never listened to such things; on the contrary, in the time -of Governor General Pedro Menendez Marquez, my first cousin, he -increased the force to one hundred and fifty soldiers of Infantry and by -thus assigning them to this Post their aid and succor succeeded in -subjugating the Indians and in bringing and attracting them to hear the -Holy Gospel, and listen to the words of the Friars who preached. This is -a public truth. And since that time no Governor has made any conquests -or discoveries, nor gone in person to treat with the Indians nor draw -them towards civilization by gifts or other means. And if you would at -least grant us a Garrison of defense of three hundred Infantry and -thirty marines besides the Friars, Governor and Royal officials, with -orders that they proceed to ferret out the secrets of the interior of -the country, where Lieutenant Mocana entered, and in which latitude -there can no doubt be found an excellent port,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_79" id="page_79"></a>{79}</span> particularly at Cayagua, -where any Armada could with safety enter in an altitude of thirty-three -and one-fourth degrees, and where I have myself been in the past year of -1588. Should it prove advantageous and convenient in the Bay of the -Mother of God, of Macan, at a height of thirty-seven degrees at its -mouth, and which terminates at the foot of the mountain range where I -was also, in the same year, in search of the English settlement. It is a -more sheltered harbor than this one and nearer for obtaining aid, and an -entrance could be made through the Province of Guale in the land of -Tulufino, which corresponds with that called Tama, on the skirts of the -mountain range. It might be a very advantageous move which would result -in the glory of God and your Majesty’s interest; for if we could bring -these people to honor the Governor of the garrison and when they found -that he was working for their good and not the contrary, there would -naturally result a reform among the enemies and we might aspire to carry -out your designs in a satisfactory manner. Under existing circumstances -it is impossible for this Garrison, composed of so few men, to march out -or in any way try to defend themselves against the enemy, and nothing -remains but to die bravely defending the Garrison as best they can, and -when there remains no one else to defend it, it leaves the Friars and -converted Indians to the mercy of God, for it is the only help they can -look to, the Forts and Castles of Flanders being so far away they would -be slow to respond. If there is to be no more infantry sent I think it -would be well to agree upon making this Fort a ravelin and build a good -trench of defense along the coast to prevent the enemy<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_80" id="page_80"></a>{80}</span> from jumping -over and in every possible way attend to the preservation of all the -above mentioned regarding the Friars and converted natives. Put a stop -to all these ambushes and skirmishes and other nuisances which oblige -them (the natives) to leave their settlements and fortify themselves -upon your domains and do great damage to vessels coming in and going out -at the mouth of the Bahama channel, making it unsafe all along the coast -of this part of the Indies, possessed by your Majesty and which you will -possess for many years for the glory of God and the welfare of the souls -of these poor natives, and may His Divine Majesty not permit these -arbitrations and troubles caused by a few men who are incited by their -passions and own selfish interests and with the pretext of saving you -some twenty or thirty thousand dollars cause such great trouble that -your expenses will be more than doubled in repairing the damage. You -support and maintain the Garrisons of Havana and Porto Rico from rents -and taxes of New Spain and it is not just nor proper to put difficulties -in your way to prevent you from preserving and sustaining in the same -way this one which should be well defended as it is a Port from whence -you can pass through those same inland regions to Mexico, and, in my -opinion, it is very important to preserve it for this purpose. Havana is -of importance, being the key to the Indias and a place where the Armadas -and fleets can replenish and repair to continue their voyages through -these Kingdoms. With all humility I beg you receive my zeal and good -wishes which is to always serve you with fidelity and truth as has been -done by my parents, and if on this occasion I did not call your -attention to<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_81" id="page_81"></a>{81}</span> these matters, which are of vast import, I should be -committing a crime, and in all this I subject myself to better judgment -and implore your Majesty with all humility that as I can be of no other -use in this Post, but to serve as Treasurer of these Provinces, which I -am at present doing, you will consider my application and give me -permission to go to Spain and render an account of the Royal finances -intrusted to my care since June of the past year of 1602, hereafter and -for this purpose that I be given receipts of my charge, and that during -my absence from this Port the employment be at the risk and account of -the person left in my place, and who must give bond as is customary in -vacations of similar Posts and offices and at the same time that the -Governor provide that he be given one half of the salary and that I -receive the other half as a means of helping me to defray my expenses, -and if my mind does not deceive me my services are deserving of it for -the care and anxiety I have suffered in this Garrison by wishing to -defend the cause of the profit of the Royal finance of your Majesty and -the desire that I have of settling my accounts, not only those I have of -my own, but also those of Pedro Redondo which will seem to have been -given with pay, which will be the case with those I render if God will -give me life for it to employ in your Royal Service. May God grant you -many and happy years for the mercy and defense of the faith, the -preservation of peace and tranquility of many more kingdoms, and the -conversion of as many idolaters as are in these parts.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Menendez Marquez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., January 5th, 1608.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_82" id="page_82"></a>{82}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1622-1640.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Report of Antonio Benavides to his Majesty—Endeavored to execute -order of the King to establish friendly relations with the English -of the Carolinas—Sent Don Francisco Menendez together with other -Officers—The Mission a failure owing to the English not having -instruction from London—Find that the English have built fort on -Spanish territory—Requested its removal in order to avoid trouble -between the two nations—The English Governor refused—Matter fully -laid before his Majesty—Report of Luis De Rojas—Frigate sent from -Augustine to Havana to help fleet from New Spain bring over -supplies for Garrison—They discover thirteen vessels, which proves -to be an enemy who give chase to the Frigate—The pilot and -soldiers landed, followed by the enemy, until a forest is reached, -where the enemy leaves them—Returning to their launches the enemy -strip the Frigate and burn the hull—The enemy coast along shore -frightening the Indians, lodging in their huts—A large force of -Indians were gathered together with one hundred and fifty soldiers -to pursue the enemy at which they reembark and sail away—A Spanish -Frigate arrives bearing forty-seven persons, all that was left of -three vessels which had been captured by the enemy who proved to be -bearing provisions to a Dutch Fleet in Havana—<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_83" id="page_83"></a>{83}</span>Recommends his -Majesty to build a fort at the Bar at the place called Jega—Report -of Luis Ussitinez to his Majesty—The Mandate of the King has been -carried out in regard to prayer to God for the success of the -King’s arms taken up against France—1636—An account of a meeting -of the Board of the City Council of Havana at which a clergyman of -the Holy Office of the Inquisition appears with an Auto from the -Senior Commissionado, Don Francisco de las Casas, of the Holy -Office of this city, containing instructions as to certain -ceremonies in connection with the Inquisition.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Lordship:</i><br /> -</p> - -<p>By your Royal dispatch of last year you ordered me to immediately -establish friendly relations with the English of the Carolinas, and that -your Majesty had asked that the Court of London should pass efficacious -measures to have the order repeated, which was given in virtue of the -suspension of arms between your Majesty’s crown and that of England, to -the end that these vessels be not disturbed by the English of the -Carolinas, nor the Indians of their Province, so that they may derive -the benefits of the land and live in tranquility and love as your -Majesty desires. That for this purpose I should in my ministerial -capacity go to the Governor of Carolina instigating him to make them -observe punctually the treaty of suspension of arms. I executed this -order immediately and sent the Auditor Don Francisco Menendez -accompanied by other Officers of the Garrison of this Post, with orders -to adjust a firm agreement with the Governor that on the part of the -English they should<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_84" id="page_84"></a>{84}</span> cease to incite the Indians, and thus they and the -laborers might live without injury one from the other; that this -agreement was equally important for both Nations. To this proposition, -and others certified, in the testimony of the letter which the referred -to Don Francisco Menendez carried and on this occasion I remit to you. -The Governor and parliament of the Carolina replied that they had -received no orders from the King of Great Britain, but that -notwithstanding they would try to maintain friendly relations with this -Government during the suspension of arms. Immediately upon the arrival -of Auditor Don Francisco Menendez in Carolina, he was informed that the -English had built a wooden fort at the mouth of Talaje, one of your -Provinces, where for many years were settled the Indians, and on account -of the blockade we put upon it, they retired. Don Francisco immediately -demanded of the Governor and Parliament the reason for building there; -that it was your Majesty’s Territory, etc., and stating that it might -cause trouble between the two Nations and once that war was started it -would be difficult to stop on account of the Indians. His reply was -simply that to secure his dominions from invasion and harm, the King of -Great Britain had ordered it built, and that they should found Towns in -the best and most approved manner. The Auditor requested its removal -from your Territory, but they refused to do so, stating that his orders -were not sufficient, and expressed nothing whatever in regard to this -Fort. I infer that with the incoming of this new Governor in the -Carolinas, not only will the Fort be completed, but they will settle all -the Islands belonging to your jurisdiction, and thus make the Carolinas -impregnable<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_85" id="page_85"></a>{85}</span> and reduce this Garrison to a more lamentable condition -than it is, and the Indians watching their opportunities will come upon -us and also takes sides with the English, who will supply them with arms -and ammunition, a thing they most ardently desire. The Auditor was also -informed that in the Carolinas they were waiting the arrival of large -quantities of arms and ammunition from England. They can in time of war -easily invade this Castle, the only desire and aim they have, on account -of the great importance it would be to the preservation of their -colonies in this New England and the facility it would give them for -capturing vessels coming and going through the Bahama Channel, the -nearness of this Castle being just what they most desire. In giving you -this information I not only appease my conscience but fulfilled my -obligations to you by showing you the great danger which threatens you -and the terrible results it might cause, and I leave it to the -intelligence of your Royal Highness to act in this matter as best -pleases you.</p> - -<p>May God save you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Antonio Benavides.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., April 21st, 1622.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -1627<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>After having written your Majesty giving an account of having faithfully -fulfilled all the instructions of your different Royal Cedula, I will, -in this, give a detailed account of what occurred on August 25th of this -year. I ordered Captain Diego del Pozo to embark in one of the frigates -of your Majesty’s Service in this Garrison, and proceed to Havana, to -help bring<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_86" id="page_86"></a>{86}</span> over the supply for this Garrison, which was to come on the -fleet from New Spain. Following his journey and coasting along these -Provinces, near the Cape of Canaveral, on Sunday, the 13th of September, -in the morning, he discovered thirteen vessels, ten large ones and three -smaller ones. Believing it to be the Fleet, he made signals and hoisted -the flag, but as no answer was returned he saw clearly that it was the -enemy. At the same time one of their three smaller vessels came forward -and gave him chase. The Frigate being small went so near in shore that -the vessel could not reach it, seeing which they lowered two rowboats to -chase and attack the Frigate, each boat carrying twelve soldiers and ten -mariners. The Frigate resisted the attack with arquebuses. The enemy not -making any headway, called for more aid, which was sent them by two more -larger launches with a hundred men. Captain Diego del Pozo finding -himself in such a tight place, and the pilot and soldiers thinking they -would stand a better chance on land, he decided to land. The enemy -followed close, he fought them step by step until they came to a thick -forest, when the enemy decided to leave them. The skirmish lasted about -two hours. On returning to their launches the enemy first stripped the -Frigate of all they wanted and burned the hull. When Captain Pozo saw -that he would have to abandon the ship, he threw the two pieces of -artillery he carried overboard. All this occurred about forty leagues -from this Garrison. In a few days I was notified of this misfortune and -I sent a launch with infantry to get the men from the Frigate. All -arrived safely without the loss of a single man. I had the testimony -taken and ascertained the truth and found<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_87" id="page_87"></a>{87}</span> that the Captain and his men -were here and did their duty faithfully. Further proof and truth was -ascertained a few days later from the soldiers I sent by land to -reconnoitre the coast where the Frigate was lost—they brought word that -the thirteen vessels which had been sent to chase the Frigate were -coasting along slowly taking on water and wood. They had disembarked and -taken up lodging in the Indian huts, the Indians fleeing with fear. -Some, by gifts, had been induced to return, others came to me for -protection. Following this, I received further news that three of the -thirteen vessels were lost and the crew on land. This proved not to be -true—in going over the Bar three launches were lost and a few of the -men drowned. Feeling it was not right to have the enemy land on your -Majesty’s domain, where we are at present safe and on friendly relations -with the Indians, I immediately gave orders and gathered a large force -of Indians and, with a hundred and fifty of our men, I set out -determined to find the enemy and thrust them out. I appointed Captain -Melchar Durante to take command here during my absence, he being an old -man of much experience. I was continuing my pursuit of the enemy when I -received news of their having re-embarked and sailed off, so I returned -sending one of the Sergeants with a squad of twenty men to the Bar, and -that they might recover the three launches if they were worth it. This -they did promptly, returning with two of the launches in fair condition, -the third they left as it was too badly injured to be of use. They -brought the same news of the enemy’s proceedings. On the 20th of said -month a Frigate arrived. On sending out to recognize her, we found it to -be Spanish.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_88" id="page_88"></a>{88}</span> It was one of the fleet which was overtaken by the enemy -and brought in forty-seven persons, mariners and passengers, among them -an Augustinian Monk. It was what was left of the three vessels taken by -the enemy of the thirteen vessels. They were captured off Cape San -Antonio. On one of the vessels were the papers and information sent by -the Viceroy to Don Carlos Ybarra, General of the Spanish fleet, which -was coming from Spain. They captured it near Cape Catoche, and the -papers for General Ybarra and your Majesty were thrown overboard to -prevent the enemy from getting them. They were in the enemy’s power for -twelve days, when they put them on this small Frigate with scant -rations, and told them they were free to come to this Garrison, where -they arrived half-starved. I took them in and fed them at your Majesty’s -expense, as part of them had lost their lives in your service and they -were your vassals. They remained here a month, and on the first -opportunity which presented itself, I gave them passage for Havana. -Among the forty-six persons were four pilots and four boatswain who gave -a long account of what they heard while prisoners. They particularly -spoke of the Armada in charge of Tomas Raspuro, which they had been -waiting for, but on seeing so many large vessels of war and knowing they -would be outnumbered, they desisted and retired along the coast—it was -then they captured these three frigates of this Garrison of which I have -given you detailed account. These Pilots informed me that these thirteen -vessels came with supplies and ammunition and provisions for the Dutch -fleet, which was in Havana, but they learned it had departed and they -were<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_89" id="page_89"></a>{89}</span> too late. Being unable to assault our Fleet as she entered the -mouth of the channel, they decided to take one of the Pilots who was -experienced in the Honduras waters and there await the Admiral and -Captain of our fleet and make them prisoners. They questioned them the -whole time they were prisoners and asked their advice, finally turning -them loose on the small frigate, so that it was a miracle they were -saved. The thirteen vessels were manned by very young men, most of them -boys, and they could not tell the name of the squadron, but the Admiral -was Pedro Yanez, a German, a native of Amsterdam. They got all the -information possible regarding this Garrison, and say that next summer -they will come and ransack and burn the City. At that time there were -only forty men, less than the three hundred you should always maintain -here—so, I selected others, forced them into service and have them -drilled and armed. I have given you a full account of all the happenings -on the coast this summer. I hope I have done so, as a good vassal, and -for this reason I should warn and advise your Majesty to build a Fort at -the Bar at a place they call Jega—it being the place where vessels all -come to cast anchor when they want to take on water, wood, and to await -the merchant ships and others they wish to capture. Many of your ships -and nearly all those bringing supplies to this Garrison are lost in this -way. A Fort at this place would act as a sentinel, and guard against -their landing and helping themselves. It would also be well to have it -in case of vessels being wrecked along this coast, as so many are, to be -able to rescue and save the crews and passengers, who so often perish at -the hands of pirates and cruel Indians. One cannot trust<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_90" id="page_90"></a>{90}</span> the Indians, -they are children born of traitors. I am sure the Germans would not -approach if they saw the place occupied by Spaniards. For this you would -be obliged to increase a hundred soldiers more than are in this -Garrison. Besides the men would have to be relieved from time to time -from there as the work would be arduous, and no soldier or any one could -withstand the mosquitoes which are so bad they kill the men, and destroy -much of the food. The cost of this Fort you would have to send some one -to estimate. I could not feel that I had properly complied with my duty -until I have notified you of this great and urgent need. Hoping your -Majesty may spend many happy years, as your vassals need you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Luis De Rojas.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., February 13th, 1627.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1636.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>By a Cedula of your Royal Highness, dated in Madrid, on the 28th of June -of last year, you command me to have a general offering of prayer in all -the churches in the district under my command, imploring God that you -may be successful in the arms you have taken up against France, on -account of her evil designs against you. You also recommend that I -improve the conduct and manners of the people here; that if necessary I -punish them publicly for their offences. I immediately complied with -your order, and had them go out from the high church in procession, -those of the Seraphic Order joining with all the others. They went -through all the streets of the City, then a high mass was sung, and -prayers offered for<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_91" id="page_91"></a>{91}</span> your success. I also sent a message to all the -other Churches and Convents to have like services celebrated. In regard -to the conduct of the residents of these Province, Spaniards as well as -natives, I have great care in every respect, and from today, complying -with your Mandate, I shall redouble my vigilance. May God spare your -Majesty many years, for the good of Christianity.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Luis Ussitinez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -Havana, A. D. 1640.<br /> -</p> - -<p>In the city of Havana on the 13th day of April, 1678, there was a -meeting of the Board in the Hall of the City Council as is usual and -customary. The Master of the Field, Don Francisco Davila, Governor and -Captain-General of said City, and the Messrs. Nicolas Castellan, -Lieutenant-Major Don Pedro Valdes, Don Pedro Recio de Oquendo, First -Alderman, Captain Don Blas Pedraso.</p> - -<p>In the presence of the Notary, the following was agreed:</p> - -<p>They had begun to discuss some business when there was a rap at the -door, the Governor rang the bell, the porter opened the door and said -that outside was the Lieutenant Don Antonio Grazeano, a noted clergyman -of the Holy Office of the Inquisition, that he brought a message from -the Inquisition for his Lordship of the Board. He sent this youngest -Alderman with the Secretary to receive him, as he came in the name of -the Inquisition. Entering and having been seated in the midst of the -Aldermen, he announced that he brought an Auto from the Señor -Commissionado,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_92" id="page_92"></a>{92}</span> Don Francisco de las Casas, of the Holy Office of this -City. He was told to read it, which he did, and delivered it. His -Lordship asked that he give testimony of his authority in order to agree -upon the matter of which it treated, and for the better veneration of -God and of so Holy a Tribunal. Don Antonio Glaziano drew forth from his -pocket a folded paper which he delivered in my, the Notary’s’ presence. -Opening it, it contained a sheet of paper, the first leaf of which was -written on both sides, signed, it appeared, by the said Don Antonio -Graziano. This duty performed, he arose and left, accompanying him to -the door, the same ones who received him, and I, the present Notary. The -door being closed his Lordship ordered inserted to the letter the -testimony, the tenor of which is as follows:</p> - -<p>In the City of Havana on the same day, Dr. Francisco de las Casas, -“Comissionado” of the Holy Office of the Inquisition in the City of -Carthagena, said: That last Sunday, the eighth of the current month, -seeming to him opportune, and by order of the Holy Tribunal for which -purpose he warned and made known to the present Notary and all the -gentlemen of the Board, that they might concur to their duty as ordered -by your Majesty, preceding these courtesies and compliments.</p> - -<p>That on the day appointed they should go from the residence of the Lord -Comissionado to the Holy Parochial Church of this City, in the order -referred in the testimony given by the present Notary. The function -terminated, they should leave the church, return to the residence of the -Lord Comissionado. It seems they wished to alter this form at the gates -and places<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_93" id="page_93"></a>{93}</span> they had been, and, as on the day of the Anathema the same -celebration must be repeated, the Lord Comissionado wished, with the -best intentions, and not to be lacking in the form observed by the -Tribunal for said act to which they should cling, this was entirely for -the reasons of his Office and to avoid public altercations, from which -originate unnecessary noise and unrest, contrary to the decency and -gravity of this Tribunal. This is well known to the Tribunal and Board -of said City, it must be done in the following manner: That the Board -should come in this form to the residence of the Lord Commissionado and -conduct him to the church, he going by the side of the Governor, the -other ministers each one between two Aldermen, according to the Office -and time of service and somewhat in advance of this Lord Commissionado -and Governor with the standard of the Faith which must be carried by the -person of greatest authority who should be present. The balls of the -standard by the next in authority. That on arriving at the church the -priests must come out to receive them, sprinkling them with holy water, -and conduct them to their seats, which shall be in the High Chapel, on -the Gospel side, in a chair covered with velvet and a carpet at the -feet. Consecutively, next to the Governor and Lord Commissionado on a -covered bench, the High Constable and other attendants and ministers of -the Holy Office. That the Governor and Board are to be seated thus the -day of publication, on the Gospel side; that the Lord Commissionado -should be the preferred in all things; that at the hour for leaving, the -Notary accompanied by two attendants, will mount the pulpit and from -thence he shall swear them in, in a loud voice,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_94" id="page_94"></a>{94}</span> to the oath of Faith. -This finished, they are to take the Lord Commissionado back to his -residence. They are to try and carry out these ceremonies in as grave -and reverential a manner as possible, this being one of the most -important ceremonies of the Holy Office of the Inquisition, and this -City belongs to its District. There are reasons for other ceremonies, -and so I, the present Notary, was ordered to witness them, that I might -give testimony and the work proceed according to the acts published, and -so that all could be reported to the Lord Inquisitadores of the Holy -Tribunal. Then it was provided and ordered to be signed.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Dr. Francisco de las Casas.</span><br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>This agrees with the original which I have in my possession, and having -consulted the matter, the following was agreed upon:</p> - -<p>First: As regards the form in which the City, according to the acts of -Faith, must proceed to the Residence of the Lord Commissionado and -Minister of the Holy Office, as also in the public streets, we cite or -quote a Cedula from your Majesty where you refer to Don Juan Solozano, -whose political authority in Peru entitles him to have a voice, and on -this point we are warned by your Majesty to guard against the Lord -Commissionado assuming superiority of the Governor. In Peru, where the -matter was first discussed of precedence the form is as follows: The -City goes from the City Hall, as customary, to the residence of the Lord -Commissionado, where he is awaiting them in the yard. There he is -incorporated in the procession, being placed at the left of the -Governor, and all march in twos, the magistrates and constables of -longest<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_95" id="page_95"></a>{95}</span> standing given the preference, and the Ministers of the Holy -Office intermixed, but preference always to the Officers of Justice. On -arriving at the church, assigning seats and all through the ceremonies -care is taken that the greatest preference and respect be shown the -Governor, as stated in your Royal Cedula, and thus it was conducted last -Sunday in going and coming from which much discussion has arisen, as -certified in the testimony which I, the present Notary, insert to the -letter, although the Lord Commissionado states in the Auto that all -preference was given the Governor.</p> - -<p class="r"> -1640.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_96" id="page_96"></a>{96}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1655-1657.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>An anonymous letter to his Majesty recounts the death of Governor -Benito Ruid Salazer by a contagious sickness during the absence of -the Sergeant Major—The office is held by two others pro tem.—They -also died suddenly after serving a short term—Certain officials of -the Garrison who are related meet at night and elect as Governor -Don Pedro Ruitinez—Who intimidates the people and squanders the -money sent for their support—The Treasurer a partner in the -illegality, and the Judge receives hush money—This Governor -maltreated an official who is also a soldier and a conveyor of -monies and goods for this port from Havana, for his -Majesty—Traffic in amber from the Indians—Taking the iron and -implements sent to be used in repairing the Fort as money to -purchase this amber—Declares he will consult his own pleasure -concerning the laws of the Church, taking communion once in one and -one-half years—A distressing condition of mismanagement—No name -signed to the letter—A report from Diego Rebolledo, 1657, -concerning the necessity of having an officer to guard the port for -incoming and outgoing vessels as pirates had frequently entered and -landed before notice could be given—Also the appointment of an -officer and twelve infantrymen to guard other ports of the -coast—He desists from building more<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_97" id="page_97"></a>{97}</span> fortifications because of the -opposition of the Friars, who protested that the proximity of the -Spaniards would retard the conversion of the Indians—The Governor -feels that the danger is far greater to the development of his -Majesty’s Provinces to allow the enemy a foothold in a Province as -rich as Apalachicola—The great distance of some of the -Provinces—Indians dying with smallpox—The burden of carrying food -such a distance on the shoulders of men—Fray Juan Gomez reports -(1657) of the uprising of some of the Indian Chiefs who march to -St. Augustine and hang the Governor because of his insistance on -their carrying heavy loads of corn into the settlement, when they, -the Indians, had vassals to perform such labors—Reports that the -Island of Jamaica is heavily fortified by the English who intend -taking Cuba—These reports causing much uneasiness in these -Provinces.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1655.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>My Lord</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Moved by piety, and a desire for peace and quietude, it has seemed to me -timely to notify you regarding the Government of this Province and -Garrison of St. Augustine, Fla., being as you are so high and -compassionate a Minister, who is always thinking and caring for the -welfare of his people. My Lord, Governor Benito Ruid Salazar, former -Governor of this Province, died at the time the Sergeant-Major was -absent. God, it seems, took him by a contageous sickness, and although -two others have been nominated <i>pro tem.</i>, by the death of Benito Ruiz, -the reins of government were left in charge of the Auditor Nicolas Ponce -de<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_98" id="page_98"></a>{98}</span> Leon, who governed for six months more or less, when he died -suddenly. For this reason, a few of the Officials of this Garrison, who -are related, met at night in different parts of the City, and with -sufficient defamatory speech elected as Governor Don Pedro Ruitinez, -with flattering promises to those who would give their vote. When he had -been Governor one year and a half, he had given twenty-three patents of -captain, the most of them to two companies of this Garrison, four -positions as wardens of the Fort, three Sergeant-Majors said to be -andantes—three Auditors, one Treasurer—calling himself Governor and -Captain-General. In granting these patents, and other things he has -done, he has thrown down the flags, and had the artillery at the Fort -salute. He arrived here on the seventeenth of July, with the Auditor, -Treasurer, Sergeant-Major and the two captains of infantry who all left -that court at the same time. The Sergeant-Major brought a Cedula from -your Majesty, for the Governor, which he presented to Don Pedro -Ruitinez, and it was not possible to comply with it, it being a military -promotion, placing the Sergeant-Major as Governor. Don Pedro Ruitinez -had received notice that Don Diego de Rolallado had been appointed -Governor and Captain-General of this Port—he sent some friends over to -Havana to meet and entertain him during his stay in that City, and thus -Don Pedro has maintained his friendly relations with the Governor, -although he has not said a word of how he intimidated the people to -elect him Governor—nor his other doings—nor how he refused to turn -over the Government to the Sergeant-Major. But he did demand his pay. -Your Lordship, the Governor and Captain-General arrived<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_99" id="page_99"></a>{99}</span> at this -Garrison on the 18th of June, 1654, having received in Havana $20,000 -sent by the Auditor and placed to the credit of this Garrison. This -money he used in Havana as follows: Goods—$7,000, gaining in this -purchase more than 200 per cent. He sent Don Alonzo Menendez with $8,000 -to relieve the suffering and need of the infantry and others who are in -your service, and he sold to advantage the remaining goods. In the month -of February of this present year there arrived a vessel laden with -flour, iron implements and other goods, and although it is true that the -person in whose charge they came, brought over $40,000 to be delivered -to this treasury, he only delivered $15,000, because in Havana the -duties were so heavy and they demanded the pay. The soldier in whose -care this money and goods came, is Domingo Nunez. He spent in Havana -$2,000 on clothing, filling an order received from the Governor, and -another $2,000 in clothing he was to bring from New Spain. The Governor -after ordering this became infuriated with Domingo Nunez, cursing him, -beating and slapping him in the most unheard of manner—accusing him of -not bringing all the clothing ordered, and finally he had him placed in -the stockade on the beach. He then had the boxes and packages taken to a -neighbor’s and soldier, and opened them—finding after pricing them and -adding one-fourth more than the cost to them, that they amounted to more -than the $2,000. He then went several times to Domingo Nunez, demanded -his papers, searched them, kept him in prison, and then without cause or -reason turned him out. It is true he becomes enraged for the slightest -cause. It is a positive fact, that he and another spendthrift named -Fanfan, have sent out<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_100" id="page_100"></a>{100}</span> from his (the Governor’s) house, chocolate to be -sold on the streets by his body guards. At the time there was such great -distress and scarcity, he sent out wine to be sold at such exorbitant -prices that only those compelled to have it could buy. In this tavern of -his, the people sell cutlasses for bread, chocolate and tobacco. In the -large store, run now by Lorenzo Josi, they sell rum and clothing—a -bottle of rum costs eight dollars which is an outrage. According to -Manuel Barrios, the tavern keeper, he makes thirty-one dollars on a -cask. Since there is no more money left to buy these commodities for -cash he has adopted another method of selling them in exchange for -labor, and makes out checks for this amount. My Lord, in the month of -July of last year, there came to this Garrison a party of Indians, who -live on the coast near the Bahama Channel with a large quantity of -amber, some of which they presented to the Governor, the rest they gave -in exchange for goods, and because a few of the soldiers bought some in -exchange for clothing he was exceedingly angry. When these Indians left -the land he had them followed by two rowboats with soldiers. He finally -sent Don Alonzo Menendez with goods that he should bring him all the -amber he could obtain, he also sent out others. The Lieutenants were Don -Alonzo Menendez and Juan Dominguez and Alonzo Garcia. This trading for -amber was carried on for six months. They used up all the iron -implements. At first we thought that these implements were broken and -thrust aside as worthless, soon, however, we discovered they were used -to trade for amber, as well as five hundred tons more of iron which was -brought from New Spain. All this was paid for from<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_101" id="page_101"></a>{101}</span> your Treasury. The -amber was sold in Havana for the sum of forty thousand dollars. In the -meantime the Fort has been allowed to suffer, it is falling to pieces in -many places, the timber that was cut in the forest has rotted and the -troops’ time and iron implements are all used in the trade for amber. -The infantry and other persons drawing a salary from your Highness have -been on several occasions in a great rage with the Treasurer who abuses -them and threatens them that Don Diego Rovellado will have them killed -in the field—the guards, for the slightest offense, are beaten through -the streets, and even imprisoned in the Church of San Francisco, and at -times when he can catch them in his own house he slaps and beats them -unmercifully. In a year and a half that he has been Governor he has only -once complied with the laws of the Church, confessing and receiving the -communion publicly. He says that every one can do as he pleases; that he -does as he pleases. At the Fort he does not have the flag hoisted, only -two guards at night and their round is an easy one, but he takes the men -to guard his house every night, paying them a few dimes, and in the day -he takes others to whom he pays two or three dimes, notwithstanding that -your Majesty sends money each year to pay these men, but I am told that -Don Diego Rovellado has paid the judge some five or six thousand dollars -and he can escape free from any charge made against him. All that I -state to your Highness in this letter, you may be quite sure is the -truth, and I hope you will deem it proper to relieve your vassals from -this unnecessary suffering. May God guard you and make you happy for -many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">No Signature.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., November 20th, 1655.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_102" id="page_102"></a>{102}</span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1657.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>His Lordship</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Having begun the conversion of the Indians in the Province of Apalache -at the close of the administration of Governor Louis Harristenir, who -was immediately succeeded by Dannian de las Vegas. He placed a few -soldiers in this Province to guard the going out and incoming of -vessels. Having been informed that they entered and left the Port, and -there was no one to give any report of them. This guard was kept there -during the assumption of power by Benito Ruiz Salazar and the Auditor -Nicolas Ponce de Leon, until the Sergeant-Major Don Pedro Harristenir -entered as Governor. This latter, to please the Friar, he not only -dismantled the estates of your Majesty in those parts, but he also -retired the Lieutenant and soldiers who assisted him, having no one to -administer justice to the Natives, nor to give information concerning -the Post, and so, immediately upon my taking the place of Governor, -having been informed by the General Governors and other notables who -were convened in Havana, and notified further by all the principal -people of this Garrison who demonstrated how necessary it was to have a -Lieutenant in said Province to guard and advise, as there had entered a -vessel of the enemy, and the natives had aided them and supplied them in -exchange for furs, hatchets, knives and other goods, without its being -known in this Garrison. For this reason I named to the position Captain -Antonio Sartucha and two soldiers with the instructions which I send -enclosed—so that justice might be administered to the Natives, it being -too laborious and the distance too great for them to come to this -Garrison to adjust their quarrels and differences and to guard the Port<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_103" id="page_103"></a>{103}</span> -and advise me. In a few days after his arrival he notified me of another -vessel of the enemy (pirates) who had entered the Port. He asked for aid -for infantrymen, which I sent him, to the number of forty, in command of -Captain Gregorio Bravo. Before this aid reached him, the enemy was able -to procure what they wanted. By pushing into service the natives, he was -however able to prevent them from landing. It being urgent that I should -go in person to pacify and punish the natives of the Province of -Timagua, testimony of which decrees were made. I remit them to your -Majesty. I passed on to visit the other Provinces and investigate the -condition of the harbors. I did this with the consent of all the -Casiques, and the approved judgment of Fray Francisco de San Antonio and -other Friars, with the advice also of the Treasurer of the Royal -Hacienda, and many of the reformed natives. I left in command the -Sergeant-Major Don Adrian de Canizares, being a person of experience and -trustworthy, giving him twelve infantrymen with which to defend the Port -and coast of these Ports, and that he should administer justice to the -Natives for which purpose I elected a syndicate of Friars who work in -said Province, and some of their friends. Having determined upon this at -the time you ordered me to be vigilant and careful, since the English -enemy had attempted to occupy one of the Ports of this Province, -according to information given your Majesty by Don Diego Cardenas, -ambassador to England, and had been sent to me by Field Marshal Don Juan -Montiano, Governor who was of Havana—information he gained from some -prisoners, which confirms the information you had. There has been a -fleet of the enemy on<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_104" id="page_104"></a>{104}</span> these coasts of Florida and the Bahama Channel. -Although I had intended to increase the force of soldiers, build a Fort -and found a settlement of Spaniards as I reported was agreed upon in the -visit, which testimony, and that of the taxes and good government I -remit with the decrees. I have desisted from this on account of the many -contradictions and opposition of some of the Friars, who with the -pretext that the vicinity of the Spaniards would be dangerous to the -conversion, and who do not consider that this danger has a remedy, and -it would be much more dangerous that the enemy should occupy that Port -and plant foot on your territory and fortify themselves in a province so -rich and abundant as those of Apalachicola, the knowledge of which the -enemy is sure to be fully aware, and the danger would be irreparable and -would lose in totem the conversions of these Provinces, and this -Garrison would be unable to dislodge the enemy, from the distance at -which we are, and that we could not scatter our forces, being too few of -them, besides the consequences and damage which would accrue from -pirates on the coast of Havana and the Bahama Channel—and there is no -way of reaching us under five or six days of sailing. Finally your -Lordship, the greater part of these conversions are reduced to three -Provinces where Friars officiate—they are the Provinces of Guale, -Tunnuqua and Apalache. In the two first there are few Indians, because -for some time they have been diminishing, many having died out from the -plague and small-pox which has been raging. The same is the case in -Apalache, and in a few years very few will be left, and even now the -condition they are in, it is unnecessary to assign as many Friars as -you<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_105" id="page_105"></a>{105}</span> have. Besides their conversion would long be delayed owing to the -great distance from this Garrison, the impassable roads and untold -difficulties in sending relief, even should your Majesty send the -wherewith to do so. Food must be carried eighty leagues from this -garrison to the Province of Apalache and Chacata, on the shoulders of -men—the burden is often more than they can carry. Although I have been -admonished to relieve the twelve soldiers and Lieutenant for the good of -the natives and the benefit they receive. I have sent persons there to -remedy the evil, and seeing all I have herein stated that you may order -things as you deem most advantageous and I shall carry out your orders -regardless of the petitions of the Friars, who only base their -objections in not wanting the Spaniards about them, as in their present -condition they are absolute masters of the Indians.</p> - -<p>May God preserve your Catholic Majesty.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Diego Rebolledo.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., October 18th, 1657.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1657.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Things are in a most disastrous condition in Florida, there will soon be -no government left, if God does not help us. The Casique of Tarihila -refused to send some of his principal Indians to St. Augustine with -heavy loads of corn. I don’t know why the Governor insisted on this -labor, but the Casique gathering together the other Casiques insisted -that their principal Indians should not be made to do this work that -they had vassals to perform their labor. The Governor<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_106" id="page_106"></a>{106}</span> took the refusal -much to heart, and as a man of so little experience insisted until he -caused them to rise. They said they were not slaves; that to obey God -they had become Christians—they had never been conquered, but had -listened to the word of God the Priest had taught them. So the Casique -of San Martin at the head and all the Casiques who would follow him, -which were the Casiques of Santa Fe, Potano and San Pedro, who marched -from San Francisco and San Mateo with the others, making in all eleven -Casiques, entered and hung the Governor. Think, your Fatherly Majesty, -of such happenings. In a land where such war is carried on, I cannot -tell you of the atrocities perpetuated by these poor Florida Indians. -Nor do you understand how the Island of Jamaica is settled by the -English, who have it well fortified with three strong Forts, and all the -harbors are guarded. All prisoners from there tell us, and all who come -from there tell us that now, in this month of May forty store ships -arrived for them, and it is their intention to take Cuba. This has been -known here and in Havana by mail, which has come. It is very important -to notify you of all this, for soon it will be impossible to travel from -here to Spain nor from there here. By giving this information I feel -that I fulfill my duty, and you can act towards your vassals in a -fatherly manner.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Fray Juan Gomez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., April 4th, 1657.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_107" id="page_107"></a>{107}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1662-1670.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Report of Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez concerning the auditing of the -accounts and condition of the Royal Treasury—Reports the finding -of a large hill supposed to be a silver mine—Report of Juan -Cebadilla to his Majesty—The Governor not to keep the keys of the -Royal chest—The administration to be adopted with the negroes—Too -much harshness shown the Royal employees—Francisco Guerra y Vega -reports a Captain of the Garrison for indecency and offense to his -superiors, for which same he was reprimanded and imprisoned as a -warning, then given his liberty—The King to the Captain-General of -the Provinces of Florida—Instructions as to the continuance of the -passage to Marcana Guale—Founding the town of Santiago near -Augustine—The performing of certain duties by soldiers for which -money shall be paid—Soldiers shall be permitted to raise crops -which are their principal sustenance—That the Governor shall not -employ the people of the town in personal work for personal -aggrandisement—But shall look that he, the Governor, shall look to -the needs and wants of the people—By order of the King, 1670.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>To His Catholic Royal Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Having presented before the tribunal on behalf of the Royal officers of -Guadalapara the sworn bills, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_108" id="page_108"></a>{108}</span> others not sworn to, by which were -adjusted and proven the accounts of your administration which had been -running from the 7th of March, 1663, up to August 15th of the same year, -it was found to result in a liquidated balance in favor of your Royal -Treasury. Information of which was immediately sent to Don Geronimo de -la Luna, judge for your Majesty, that he should have it delivered to the -Treasury. He provided an Auto ordering Don Diego Salazar, Treasurer, to -place it in the Treasury. This person replied to him stating that he had -no money whatsoever from Jacon or Virginia. The infantry I sent out to -investigate tell me that in the Province of Apalache there is a very -large hill, which, in their opinion, is a silver mine, from the -specimens found in the ground and from pieces they picked up on the hill -and brought as samples. Persons who are versed in such matters say that -from their accounts they must be mines.</p> - -<p>As these matters do not admit of delay, and much care and caution is -required, I am myself going to investigate the matter thoroughly, and -give you a long and detailed account, being absolutely necessary for the -tranquility of this Province. May God preserve your Majesty for many -years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., September 8th, 1662.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1666.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>To His Catholic Royal Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>On the 27th of November of this year we received a document from Your -Royal Highness with six orders containing the form and manner in which -the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_109" id="page_109"></a>{109}</span> Royal Treasury must be conducted in its administration and other -things which were herein referred to, and what has passed in the -accomplishment of them. The order in which your Majesty states that the -Governor is not to keep the keys to the Royal Chest, but that your -officer alone must keep them, and that an account must be kept and sent -to this Treasury each year. We notified him and he obeyed, but as to its -accomplishment he desired us to say nothing to him about it, as things -were different here from other places—because all allowances and pay -are collected by his order, and thus he wishes the keys to the chest -where the money is kept. As to the accounts, he will provide them as -should be just, which is the same answer he gave before as shown in the -accompanying letter. The order for the administration that must be -adopted with the negroes was obeyed by the Governor, and all are placed -in compliance with it. We also notified him of the order your Majesty -sent, reproving him for speaking so harshly to your Majesty’s Royal -Employees.</p> - -<p>As the order sent by your Majesty regarding the labor of the estates, -all necessary steps have been taken. The one received stating that -hereafter one of your employees should be present at the paying of the -workmen, and the providing of supplies and ammunition for these forts, -was obeyed, and although the Governor also obeyed in the fulfilment of -it, he did not do so to the letter and there has been trouble between us -ever since.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Cebadilla.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_110" id="page_110"></a>{110}</span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Highness</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Don Francisco Larra whom your Majesty has had the mercy to send as -Captain of a Company of soldiers to this Garrison of St. Augustine, -Fla., is a person of such daring, restless and bold and has a mind—who -is led astray by the impulses of his will—that with his manner of -acting and talking he has given offense to the better and greater part -of the people of this Garrison, not excepting the Ecclesiastics whom he -offends and speaks in such abusive and indecent a manner of their -character. And so on this account as well as the little respect with -which he treats me, not paying the slightest attention to my office -extrajudicially. I have admonished him in the kindest terms to correct -his ways and fulfill his duties as Captain of the Infantry—not alone -was this effort a vain one, but he took a bold and daring step with me, -in the presence of the Ministers and principal people of the -Garrison—for this incivility and profanation I had him imprisoned in -the Fort, expressing to him my wrath and indignation, a copy of which I -send you. With this as a warning, I then had him set at liberty. I beg -your Highness that seeing this, you will proceed as you think best for -the peace of this Garrison. May God give you the prosperity of a -Christian.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco Guerra y Vega.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., September 2d, 1666.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The King.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>To My Captain-General of the Provinces of Florida</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>The principal people of the town of Santiago de Tolomato have written me -a letter on the 21st of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_111" id="page_111"></a>{111}</span> March, 1658, that Don Luis Reyes y Borhas, -being Governor of those Provinces, laid the foundation of the town of -Santiago, which is three leagues distant from the Garrison of St. -Augustine with the intention of continuing a passage to Morcana Guale -and surrounding Provinces and although at the founding there were many, -only about thirty remained including Casiques and persons of standing, -to continue the work. They beg that you will send more people, since -they are quick and disposed to work, so that they may complete the -passage as far as San Juan, a distance of twelve leagues, as much for -the relief of the soldiers as other things that may occur. That they -should not be called upon to perform other duties, as they have been by -the Governors who has not recompensed them for their services. Calling -upon them to unload vessels arriving at the Garrison, cut timber from -the forests and other services not in their line of duty, taking them -from their labor when planting corn, which is the principal sustenance -for themselves and families, causing them to lose their crops and suffer -hunger. Having seen in my Council of the Indias what I said to my Judge, -it has seemed right that I should order and command you, as I have done, -that hereafter you do not employ the people of said town in your own -personal work and that you proceed to preserve them and relieve their -wants by every possible means in your power and you will serve me best.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">I The King.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -Madrid, February 26th, 1670.<br /> -By order of the King our Lord.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Tubiza</span>,<br /> -Chairman of the Council.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_112" id="page_112"></a>{112}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1671-1673.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>’Tis the judgment of the Court that Pedro Menendez received the -title of Governor of Florida by right of conquest, Captain-General -and Commander of the Fleet by appointment of the King, Don Felipe, -the Second, as well as other positions of trust because of his -valor and faithful service and that these titles shall be given to -his legitimate heirs and for which same the Don Gabriel Menendez -Tarres y Aviles doth petition and it is the judgment of this Court -that said titles shall be so conferred—Important papers burned in -Simancas—Manuel De Mendoza gives information commanded by his -Majesty as to the designs of the English enemy—The discovery of -the South Sea by the four vessels sailing through the Straights of -Magellan—Condition of this Garrison and fortification and other -Provinces implores assistance for completing the work already -begun—Report of Francisco De La Guerra y Vega to the King -concerning an Englishman taken prisoner while he was Governor—The -prisoner was one of a crew who landed in the Province of Guale—The -Indians killed seven men, imprisoned three and two women—They -proved to be part of company coming over to settle in St. -Elena—This man, who was second in authority in the settlement, I -detained as a prisoner, putting him on soldier’s rations—He was -turned over to<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_113" id="page_113"></a>{113}</span> my successor upon the expiration of my term of -office—An effort was made to break up this settlement upon your -Majesty’s soil, without success, however.</i> (1673.) </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Judgment of the Court.</span></h3> - -<p>The Governor, Don Gabriel Menendez Torres y Aviles, sets forth in the -preceding petition that His Highness the King Don Felipe II (whom God -grant may come to glory) agrees with the Governor Pedro Menendez y -Aviles, Knight of the Order of Santiago, that his uncle, brother of his -grandfather, had agreed about the year 1565, that he, the said Pedro -Menendez, had to discover all the provinces of Florida, settle and build -in them two or three towns, all at his own expense, for which service -your Grace granted him the title of Governor of said Province and lands -of Florida, with all the privileges and prerogatives that are granted -the other Governors of Castile—and that having set sail to accomplish -this, and make these settlements with a private galleon of his own, of -900 tons, and many other ships and vessels which he also carried at his -own expense and having conquered, as he effectively did, the said -Province, and having settled and established two towns in it, which are -today flourishing and supplying this crown, even before completion of -this conquest. Your Majesty has named him Captain-General of the Royal -Fleet which is to be commanded and joined in Santander against the -English, commanding him to assist in this military exploit, -notwithstanding that he is under obligations in the first place, by the -treaty and agreement he had made of discovering all the land of the -Province of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_114" id="page_114"></a>{114}</span> Florida within the given term of three years counting from -the day he embarked and set sail in the Bay of the Port of Cadiz with -the fleet he carried for said conquest. Being of the greatest importance -the business for which the Royal Fleet was formed and arranged, and -while he was preparing and getting it ready, the said Governor Menendez -de Aviles died—and by his death the Duke of Medina Sidonia was -immediately named Captain-General. Afterwards having been asked on the -part of the legitimate heirs of the said Governor Pedro Menendez de -Aviles, the accomplishment of all these services which your grant had -offered him, it was contradicted by the Attorney-General of this -Court—taking advantage of one of said agreements which reads: “That if -in the expressed term of three years the Governor Pedro Menendez de -Aviles should not have finished and completed in all the said conquest -according to agreement, neither your Majesty nor any other Kings, your -successors, should be bound to fulfil any of the rewards offered.” For -this reason the heirs brought suit against the Attorney-General which -was continued. For sentence, by revision of the Court it was ordered to -be given to Don Martin Menendez, oldest brother of the petitioner, the -title of perpetual Governor of said Provinces, as had been done with his -uncle, and besides they were to give him forty thousand ducats of -silver.</p> - -<p>Withholding the charge of the Indias to augment from the right of -succession which his uncle left established, and a fishery in said -Province which the said Don Martin should select without any -remuneration for the many expenses he incurred in the conquest, Don -Martin Menendez having died without issue, or<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_115" id="page_115"></a>{115}</span> heir to his estate, the -petitioner asked they expedite the title of Governor upon him, as it was -expedient. Although endeavors have been made in the archives of Simancas -to find these papers, they have not been found, and it is said they were -burned in the fire which occurred in these archives. Imploring your -Majesty’s order that the pre-eminence and prerogative be reserved and -observed as with the title of all the other courts and marquises of -Castile, and also in consideration of the services rendered by the -Governor his uncle, and other Generals of the Indias who were members of -his house. Having seen in the Council of the Indias the petition and -letters patent of nobility, and considering the great services done by -Pedro Menendez de Aviles in the conquest of Florida as well as in other -positions of trust where he has acted with so much valor as to deserve -that his King Felipe the Second should have voluntarily given him the -title of Governor, and that his successors continue to occupy positions -as Generals—his house having spread such glory and honor as to be -noted, it has seemed well that your Majesty should grant the petitioner -the title of Castile, that he may enjoy the honors he so well deserves -as a reward for his many and remarkable services. Your Grace will -command that which is most deserved.</p> - -<p>Madrid, November 28th, 1671.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>By Cedula of January 20th of this year, your Majesty commands me to give -information regarding the designs of the English enemy. Also of the -discovery<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_116" id="page_116"></a>{116}</span> of the South Sea by the four vessels which sailed through the -Strait of Magellan, from which I had news that they arrived at Baldivia -dismantled. A German Captain was in command. He showed great zeal in -serving you. He gave a long account of the Viceroy of Peru, and what he -intended doing. The Government Places under my charge are the Garrison -of St. Augustine, Harbour and Port of Apalache and the river St. -Catherine, a frontier of St. Elena, where the English enemy are at -present; a few other less important harbours, all of which I desire to -have guarded as by your orders I am obligated.</p> - -<p>As regards this Garrison, head of this Province, and the state of the -Fortification which is being built and the designs of the English enemy -and the overtures made by them. This being a frontier of the Province of -Guale where I have stationed some infantry to watch the movements and -intuitions of the enemy, and where they could detain them, while I sent -aid and as strong a reinforcement as possible. It seems the proper thing -for us to have sufficient troops there to impede the approach of the -enemy on this Garrison and place sentinels all along to notify should -they approach by land or sea. As to the Province of Apalache which falls -almost in the bosom of Mexico, I am sure it is a place of no less -importance than this Garrison, rather I should say more so, being -thickly settled and reached by land from all the Provinces far as New -Mexico, and all others still to be discovered far as the Strait of -David, of which the German Captain discourses at such length in his -statement. Besides, it is a fertile land, and much longed for by the -enemy as it is noted for its agriculture, for which<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_117" id="page_117"></a>{117}</span> cause it should be -well settled and fortified, its Harbour should have a good fort and at -least one hundred infantry who could at any rate give the English enemy -some trouble to occupy it or set foot in said Province. This should be -done to prevent any damage, not alone in the Province, but to vessels -plying the Mexican path. I implore you to look into the matter with the -care and attention the case requires. So far as I am concerned, I have -made every effort in my power to secure and protect it. I shall try to -push this building through rapidly, that I may go and reconnoitre that -Province, carrying with me the military engineer, Ygnacio Daza, who -resides in this Garrison, that he may point out what is needed at -present. I implore your Majesty most earnestly to look with pious pity -upon your Royal Provinces and send all the assistance you can to -complete this building and the other works of which this Garrison stands -in such need, lacking all the means of protection by which we can serve -your gracious Majesty.</p> - -<p>May God spare you for many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Manuel de Mendoza.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Dec. 15th, 1672.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -1673.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Majesty</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>In a letter of Yours of the present month and year, you tell me that -seeing in the Council a letter which was received, written in English, -it was agreed that I should inform you of what had happened to an -Englishman, said to be prisoner in St. Augustine, Fla., where I was -Governor. The cause and pretext for<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_118" id="page_118"></a>{118}</span> making him a prisoner. Complying -with what your Majesty asks, I inform you in the following manner:</p> - -<p>About the end of May of last year there arrived in one of the ports of -the Province of Guale, which belongs to the Christian Indians, an -English vessel. Some of the crew having landed in a launch, the Indians -of that Province killed seven men, imprisoned three men and two women, -then the vessel with all speed turned and went off, not giving time that -from St. Augustine, where I was Governor, we should send help to those -Ports to aid in imprisoning them. Bringing me these prisoners I ordered -that their declaration be taken, at which I was present. They declared -that they had come over with vessels to settle in the Port of St. Elena, -distant from the Garrison of St. Augustine forty or fifty leagues north. -In the month of June of last year there came to the Garrison a soldier -with the news that the vessels had returned and entered the same Port, -reinforced and with the flag of truce, the captain and four other men -had landed and that speaking to a Lieutenant in command of the infantry -on guard, they told him how they were establishing a settlement near St. -Elena, with two hundred men, and that they came in search of the -prisoner, delivering at the same time to the Lieutenant two letters from -the Governor of that settlement, written in Latin, in which he asks that -the prisoner be delivered, if not, they declared themselves enemies.</p> - -<p>With this news I called a general meeting of the Royal Officers and -Commanders of the war, from which resulted that all agreed it was the -better way to serve God and your Majesty, and secure the quietude of -those Provinces, to break up said settlement, and that<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_119" id="page_119"></a>{119}</span> we should go to -work before they fortified themselves and take possession of more land. -For this purpose they prepared themselves and equipped three vessels at -that time in Port. The Chief in command being appointed by the Board, -assigning him a number of warriors to obtain the object for which they -went. A storm overtook the vessels and they could not get there in time -and so arrived without accomplishing anything. Of the referred to -notice, on two or three occasions, it was presented to your Majesty and -to the Marquez of Macera, Viceroy of New Spain, always stating what was -best to the service of God and your Majesty. To make every effort to -dislodge the said settlement, it belonging to the Christian Indians, and -they being new to our doctrine, might be easily influenced by the -heresies of the English. And although not new to our Holy Faith, we -might have the same doubts as they are a variable and roving people. It -was advisable for your Majesty’s service that we should dislodge them at -that time, that they might not possess themselves of that Province and -the interior land, and make themselves owners. It would not be well to -have a settlement of a strange Nation on your Majesty’s territory -without your orders. From this information I awaited a reply to follow -out the Orders from your Majesty and the Viceroy, and that together you -would aid me, and with some help, as that Post lacks people, I detained -the prisoner, not ill-treating him, in the house of one of his -countrymen, allowing him military rations, which is what the soldiers in -service have. As I was advised that the prisoner was the second person -in authority in that settlement, I placed him under better security, -that he<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_120" id="page_120"></a>{120}</span> might not escape and inform them of the lack of forces in the -Garrison, for without doubt knowing it the settlement would come and -take possession at very little cost. Just at this time my term of -Governor came to an end, without having determined upon a method to work -in this affair, I turned all over to the Governor, my predecessor, that -he might act as ordered in the reply to my information. This is all that -I can tell you regarding the English prisoner. By this the Council will -know that I always worked with Christian zeal, trying to stop anything -opposed to the increase of our Holy Catholic faith. God preserve you -many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco de la Guerra y Vega.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Madrid, July 12th, 1673.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_121" id="page_121"></a>{121}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1675.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Letters to the King from the Governor, Pablo Ita Salazer—The oath -administered in the tower of the old Fort, which is tumbling -down—The Garrison in want of supplies and ammunition—No -warehouses—Exposed to the fatalities of the weather—The Fort in -danger from pirates—Necessary to use Spanish daggers for the land -side protection—More money badly needed to finish the -works—Importance of the Castle to the Garrison—A pentagonal form -recommended—A hundred men needed to guard the Castle—The Viceroy -of Spain did not send the ten thousand dollars—Fort in danger from -pirates—Two hundred leagues from Havana and five hundred from New -Spain.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1675.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I have repeatedly given you an account of the manner in which I assumed -control of this Government, taking the oath of fidelity in the tower of -the Old Castle, which is almost in ruins, the artillery dismounted and -scattered as if on a beaten field of battle. The blind obedience my duty -demands in any employment of your Majesty, forces me to again repeat the -condition of things. The old wooden Fort is in ruins, the stone one -incomplete and with no defense whatever. No income or means to finish -it. In the commissary department only one hundred “arrobas” of corn, and -no<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_122" id="page_122"></a>{122}</span> other produce of any description. The Garrison is in the greatest -want, as no vessels with supplies have yet arrived from New Spain. -Seeing that we could not hold out three weeks longer, I seized two small -vessels carrying about two thousand arrobas of corn. As the Fort was in -such a demolished condition, with no defense and exposed to losing what -was done, I detained these vessels, intending to give them some amount -of embargo, conceding to each his share, but having communicated it to -the Royal Officers, they thought it too severe treatment and that I -should pay freight and the conquered’s pay; that it would be better to -pursue such a course. I let the matter stand for the present, retained -the crew and the vessels I sent to bring peons to continue the building -of the Castle, which is so absolutely important. This was done with the -greatest care and promptness, as demonstrated on the maps I submit to -you. Being entirely without means for carrying on this work, I implore -you will send it. The Fort has neither walls nor moat, some of the -ramparts only half finished, no means of closing it to make it secure. -It would seem that they have been careless in the guarding of the Fort, -sending only twenty-five men each day to do duty when it should have at -least one hundred men constantly on the watch. I repaired things as well -as I could for the lodging of the men and guards that they might stay -in, as is done in Flanders and Milan and other places, but the Officers -refuse to occupy them, stating they are in no condition nor have they -sufficient conveniences for them to go in. As it will be profitable and -advantageous to you, I implore you again not only to send the money but -the order compelling them to enter at least<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_123" id="page_123"></a>{123}</span> one hundred to guard the -Castle. May God guide thee in what is right.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pablo Ita Salazar.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Aug. 23rd, 1675.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Highness</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Not to fail in my duty, knowing as I do from twenty-two years’ service -in your Majesty’s States of Flanders and other ports, the importance of -fulfilling. It has seemed necessary for me to give you a full and -detailed account of the fortification being built in this Garrison by -your Royal Order. I have already informed you of the condition I found -it in, on assuming control of this Government of Florida. Considering it -one of your defenses and territory under whose banner it was conquered, -I have taken the greatest pains to investigate matters thoroughly. At -first I could not give as true a statement as I should have wished, -seeing so many faults and errors; but the untiring efforts I have made -to ascertain facts have brought to light certificates of the enormous -cost of this building. Being a place for the defense of the Bar, or -entrance to the Harbor, I find that by making this fortification in a -pentagonal form the bulwarks will point directly towards the Bar serving -to defend from and towards an attack, and by building a battery it -covers us in a measure from the enemy. Wishing to discuss this matter I -called a meeting of the Royal Officers showing them the great saving of -cost to the Royal Exchequer; but they seem opposed to the plan and, -having no orders from your Highness, I am obliged to leave the work as -it is. My greatest desire is to finish it and have the opportunity of -defending<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_124" id="page_124"></a>{124}</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<a href="images/ill_pg_124_lg.jpg"> -<img src="images/ill_pg_124.jpg" width="500" height="415" alt="Image -unavailable: Remains of the St. Augustine City Gateway." /></a> -<br /> -<span class="caption">Remains of the St. Augustine City Gateway.</span> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_125" id="page_125"></a>{125}</span></p> - -<p class="nind">it with my life. As on other occasions in other places, I have exposed -that life. God grant you a long life.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pablo Ita y Salazar.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Nov. 23rd, 1675.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Having done me the honor to appoint me Mayor of the new city of Vera -Cruz and port of San Juan de Ulloa, you still further honored me by -appointing me Governor of Florida.</p> - -<p>I immediately began an investigation of the state of the Old Castle and -the new stone one being made by your order. In the first place I found -it had the shape which will be clear to you in the report and letter of -the same date as this. Secondly, they continued with many difficulties -the building of the new one, as the Viceroy of New Spain has not -assisted with the ten thousand dollars a year to which this Garrison is -entitled by provision of your Majesty, and as you have no money or other -effects in your Royal Chests to supply the wants, I have made it known -to the Archbishop and Viceroy of New Spain by report and petition, -showing them how urgent it was to send us a certain sum for the -continuance of the building. I also notified the Judge of the Royal -Audience of Mexico, as is evident through all that I place before you -also what I have forwarded to the general finance office, who refused to -send any sum whatever until I had from this Garrison given a report of -the state of the building of the Castle, and the distribution made of -the salary assigned since I took possession of this Government. I found -the Port in a most dilapidated<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_126" id="page_126"></a>{126}</span> condition with no defense. I took the -oath of fidelity as you ordered, and not to be wanting in my duty as a -faithful vassal, as by being this, I have merited the great honors you -have bestowed upon me in the field. Having taken the oath I received -different Royal Cedules, among them one in which you command the Viceroy -to send ten thousand dollars more for the building, and that the -citizens and soldiers aid as far as they are able, as is done in other -places, as the benefits redound to their good and security. I must tell -you that they do, coming in person to assist in the building, with the -accustomed punctuality which is all they can do, because this Garrison -is composed of a few married soldiers who are extremely poor, their -income not exceeding the salaries earned each year. This being a land of -no commerce nor communication by entrances or departures of vessels, -there being no produce or other necessaries with which to accumulate an -income. And although you pay their salaries they never receive it in -full, as they must first assist in the buying of accoutrements for the -three vessels that bring the supplies. From their salaries they have -also paid for the repairs of the Old Castle and the furtherance of the -new building, warehouses, Royal Houses and all other necessary things -which present themselves in a post, as you have not assigned to this -Garrison any means for similar expenses, nor is there anything in the -Royal Chests. There are no rents of any kind to supply them and it is in -charge only of Royal Officers. The poor allowance divided among the -infantry and the state of the Castle will be evident to you from the -reports sent you, and I assure you that having served you for a period -of forty-two<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_127" id="page_127"></a>{127}</span> years in the armies of Germany, Flanders and Badajos, in -none of them have I been so well pleased as in this one, for the many -difficulties and dangers. The lack of means for completing the -fortification, the invasions and the lack of forces in which I find -myself, as you will see by the lists I forward you of the subjects who -are disabled and old and enjoy the privileges of false muster through -your kindness. The soldiers and sailors, who at present run on these -vessels and are absent most of the time, and those who are on guard as -sentinels. So, when the boats are obliged to go out for supplies I am -left with about eighty men who can serve. Besides this, we have no -ammunition nor supplies, so much so that when I arrived the want was so -great that families were obliged to go in the woods and hunt for roots -to keep themselves from starvation. So exposed and in need were they -that had a vessel landed and offered them food they would have miserably -surrendered. And we are always thus exposed to this fatality, because we -have no warehouses of food supplies as in every other port such as San -Juan de Ulloa, Acapulco and Morro of Havana, in these parts. My -experience in Flanders, Castillo de Amberes, Gante y Cambria, they have -supply stores of vegetables, biscuit, cheese and hung beef, enough to -last at least one year. I have sent them supplies for a long time, for -in cases of accident, and here on account of the distance and slowness -of communication there should be more care. Havana, the nearest point, -is two hundred leagues, and New Spain is five hundred, so you see the -vessels have to sail a long way exposed to the fatalities of storm, -weather and pirates, which can at any time<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_128" id="page_128"></a>{128}</span> overtake them. I have -thought proper to place all these statements before you, as being so -important to your Royal Service you may consider them. And I beg you -will aid in this building of the Fort, by sending the required means for -its continuance. It would be a very great affliction for these Provinces -to leave it in its present state. While I have seen many castles of -importance and great renown, none surpass this one, nor have been built -at so small a cost in the Indies, as will be demonstrated to you in the -accompanying certificates given by the Royal Officer. It seems that the -peons earn only one real a day and three pounds of corn, making the -twenty-five pounds come to eight reals, which is the correct price. -Their living in other places would be at least four reals. Two of the -Captains who assist in the building and hewing of stone, earn only six -reals a day, where in other places they would make at least three and -four dollars per day. All the material and other things needed are in -other places placed convenient for the workmen, so that had it been -built elsewhere than in this Garrison it would have cost more than -eighty thousand dollars. I find it very damaging for this Garrison to be -without any fortification. We are obliged to tear down the old Castle -just next to it, and the new one is not yet closed in, so that we fear -the enemy who with a much larger force could easily capture us. They are -only distant fifty leagues, two days’ sailing, and once that they were -owners of this Port, they would be of the entire Province destroying all -the conversions of the Indians who to the service of God are supported -and protected by the King and a great trouble to your vassals who sail -back and forth in the commerce with<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_129" id="page_129"></a>{129}</span> this America. Being owners, they -would have all the ports, and with their pirates stationed everywhere -that vessels should pass. I feel the Port a little more secure than when -I came, for one of the bastions is about completed, and by closing the -other side looking landward with a palisade of Spanish daggers and tuna, -I can retire if it should become necessary. In the meantime your Majesty -will kindly apply the means sufficient to finish the work as speedily as -possible, as the petition states the danger and risk this Garrison is -in. May God spare you many years of the work of Christianity.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pablo Ita y Salazar.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., June 15th, 1675.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_130" id="page_130"></a>{130}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1675.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>An effort to be made to dislodge the English from Santa -Elena—Orders to complete the Castle—Appalache considered the best -Province for settlement—Families from Yucatan for settlers, also -the Carrabies—Supplies sent from New Spain—Barracks to be made in -the Fort for the soldiers—Money sent to finish the new Castle, -also supplies for the soldiers—The neighbors to assist in building -the new Castle—Repairs on the bulwarks at Guale—Increase of -troops ordered for St. Augustine—A Fortress ordered built at -Appalache for the defense of that Province.</i> </p></div> - -<p>By dispatch of the same month and year notice was given Governor Pablo -Ita Salazar of the commands issued to his predecessor and to the Viceroy -of New Spain regarding the dislodging of the English from the Port of -St. Elena, of which they had taken possession with the intention of -settling near the mouth, which in effect they did, occupying a passage -called St. George. For this reason notice was sent the Sergeant-Major -Nicolas Ponce de Leon to proceed to dislodge the English from this -settlement, gathering all the forces of that Province and asking aid of -the Viceroy of New Spain who was ordered to reinforce him with what he -needed. He did not think there would be any considerable difficulty in -accomplishing this, as<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_131" id="page_131"></a>{131}</span> from four English fugitives he had learned all -they had done.</p> - -<p>By another dispatch the Governor of Florida was told that the Viceroy of -New Spain had notified them of having aided that Garrison with all the -supplies needed. As to the hundred families he asked for, that should go -as laborers for the increase and culture of crops, they would look into -the matter and attend to his representation of it when the case came up, -and he was specially charged to be very careful and watchful in -completing the Castle and defense of that Garrison.</p> - -<p>By Cedula of 1673 the Governor of Yucatan was asked to send to Florida -twenty-four families of Indians—master weavers—for the increase of -those Provinces for which purpose he would place himself in -correspondence with the Governor of the Islands, that both might work -out the best means of accomplishing it.</p> - -<p>The Governor of Florida replied that the best and most desirable -Provinces for the Spanish nation to settle would be Appalache and others -very near it. It was exceedingly fertile, and if the settlers were -laborers the crops would be very abundant. They gather wheat as -abundantly as corn which is the general sustenance. It would be easy to -grow the fruits, the land being level and easy to reach on account of -the many navigable rivers—to cultivate the lands in cotton, grain and -indigo, which grows wild in those Provinces and the crops lost for the -want of some one to cultivate them—and it would pay beautifully. This -could be increased by putting the twenty-four Yucatan families in for a -limited time. Having seen all this in the Council, they again commanded -the Governor of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_132" id="page_132"></a>{132}</span> Yucatan to place himself in communication with the -Governor of Florida and try to send these families, since such great -gain would result from it, to those who go as native Indians of Florida -to whose Governor he ordered, if this was carried into effect to supply -them with the necessaries as per order of Cedula of 1673.</p> - -<p>By dispatch of this same year the Governor of the Canaries was ordered -and informed of the statement made by the Government of Florida -regarding the hundred families going over to settle, telling him the -means which could be used, and that it be carried and quickly and -effectively that they might have the chance of obtaining the settlements -of these Provinces. The Council of War having seen what Governor Pablo -Ita Salazar had to say of the lack of food from which the Province was -suffering, and the lack of means for obtaining it, commanded the Viceroy -of New Spain to send that Garrison the necessary supplies for six months -in advance, both ammunition and food, on account of the condition of the -Garrison, so that it could be prepared for any emergency which might -arise, and not be without defense, and to give an account of its -execution. It was also commanded the Viceroy to send the necessary money -to Florida that they might make Barracks and lodgings in the Fort for -the soldiers who entered as guards, that they might be comfortable under -cover and suffer less hardships. He was advised that all should be done -with as little expense as possible, and to communicate with the Governor -to whom the same order had been given. He said Don Pablo Ita Salazar -made a report of the state in which he found the building of the new -Castle in<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_133" id="page_133"></a>{133}</span> Florida, and the lack of means with which to continue it. The -Council of War having seen this report notified the Viceroy to send the -supplies of three hundred troops, the quota of that Garrison, and three -thousand dollars to be expended in the delayed fortification of said -Castle; approved by the Governor, it should continue the work of the -Castle, and he was recommended to try and reduce the expenses to the -absolute necessary. That the neighbors might help in the building, as -they were interested, and it was for their own convenience and defense -that they could assist without loss of time, and with the supply of -three hundred troops who would remain in the Castle. That the number of -soldiers there was so reduced it would not only pay the people well but -there would be a surplus of capital to provide all that was needed. That -this complement of infantry should be kept in the Garrison, and his -Majesty had resolved to send a hundred more soldiers by the first -opportunity. He again commanded the Viceroy to punctually supply the -wants, so that no cause can stop the building of the Castle.</p> - -<p>In a letter of August 24th, 1675, the Governor, Don Pablo Ita Salazar, -reported to have decided upon making a roof or covering for the bulwarks -at Guale, to put the powder and other ammunitions used in the Garrison, -and a Barracks and guard house, because what they had was of wood and -exposed to incendiaries. That the Royal Officers were so opposed he -desisted in its execution to avoid unpleasant encounters until it should -be known in the Council, and together with the reports of the Officers. -He ordered the continuance of the Castle for better security and defense -at the least cost to the Royal Treasury.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_134" id="page_134"></a>{134}</span></p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Fortification of Appalache.</span></h3> - -<p>Don Manuel Cendiga, being Governor of Florida, reported among other -things the need of infantry in that Garrison—of what they had, much was -in the Province of Appalache which belongs to that jurisdiction. For -this reason his Majesty resolved to increase the troops of the Garrison -of St. Augustine. He commanded the forty-three missionaries and the -Viceroy of New Spain to order the Royal Officers of Mexico to increase -the supply of troops in Florida, so that the quota remain at three -hundred and fifty, besides the missionary fathers who must punctually -supply them each year and solicit their complement.</p> - -<p>Don Pablo Ita Salazar, Governor of Florida, gave a report of the -numerous infidel Indian settlements there were in the Province of -Appalache, and that in the Province of Guale the English had a -settlement at St. George. That with the vexations, killing and thefts, -with the vicinity of one and the other the Christian Indians receive, we -find the only remedy to be in erecting a fortification in the Province -of Appalache and place in it one hundred soldiers, and a body of one -hundred families around them. Then we might promise to keep them in -obedience and subjection to this throne. The Council having seen this, -ordered that at present they should prepare to make a fortress in the -Port of Appalache in the best and easiest manner for the defense of that -Port, and report by the first opportunity the time and amount required -for building it. By still another dispatch he ordered the Governor to -send a perfectly clear report of what he had already done regarding the -fortress of the Port, and of all the Province; the spot best adapted for -it,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_135" id="page_135"></a>{135}</span> the form and disposition, forces needed for the defense, and if -there would be any difficulty in opening up the entrance of the Bay, -where it was built; the depth of the water, if vessels could enter, and -of what tonnage; have a very careful and minute report from some one of -experience and a master. Send a map and report attached of what this -work will cost, giving your opinion so that seeing it and the -information asked on the matter the most advantageous resolutions may be -taken for the security and defense of that Province.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_136" id="page_136"></a>{136}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1680-1685.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Letter from Pablo Ita Salazer to his Majesty—Indians of the -Province of Guale ally themselves with the English and together -with over three hundred men make war against the Spaniards of the -Island of St. Catherine—Surprising and killing the sentinels, only -one of whom escaped to warn the Garrison—The people gather in the -convent of a Friar and defend themselves from daylight until four -o’clock, when aid from this Garrison reached them—The enemy -retires—Natives of the Island greatly alarmed—Disquieting news of -the intentions of the enemy upon this Garrison—Implores the aid of -the King quickly that the English may be ejected from the land—Don -Juan Marquez Cabrera, Governor and Captain-General of Florida, -gives an account to his Majesty of hostilities in the -Provinces—Two Fleets, French and English, going and coming from -Havana—Seize Fort Matanzas and after plundering, burn it to the -ground—Is being rebuilt—Great depredations committed up and down -the coast by the enemy—Indians and half-breeds taken and sold into -slavery—Pushing the work on the Castle—Grieved over its slow -progress, owing to lack of workmen—Begs to be allowed to retire -because of age and long service—To Charles II, our principal -Casique, the King—From the people of the territory of -Habalache—<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_137" id="page_137"></a>{137}</span>The King to the Governor and Captain-General of Florida -concerning ten negroes from St. George who asked for the waters of -baptism—A Sergeant-Major from St. George comes to claim -them—Because they have become Christians the Spanish King decides -to buy them—After receiving a receipt they are to be set at -liberty, each one given a document to that effect—The King -reprimands Don Diego Quirago for not immediately attending to these -matters—Orders a full account to be sent as soon as it is -accomplished.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1680.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>In a letter of April last year I stated to you the misgivings I felt -about the English who have populated the Province of Carolina and River -St. George. In November of the following year I repeated this with some -evidence, and such a plan or a map from the River St. George to Mobile. -Afterwards I was notified that five Englishmen had put to flight one of -the Towns and penetrated as far as the Province of Guale, which belongs -to the jurisdiction of this Garrison, where they came to take -declarations and give information concerning the coming of the English -to those parts; all of which I submit to your Majesty.</p> - -<p>My duty today is to give an account of what happened in the Province of -Guale this year. The Chuchumacos, Bechizes and Chulucas who were at war -among themselves, but had maintained friendly relations and trading with -this Province, became friendly with the English and have declared -themselves our enemies. They made an invasion first on the Island of -Guadalquiri in Guale, then on the main land they killed<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_138" id="page_138"></a>{138}</span> and scalped a -number of the Natives until these latter rallied and, with one of our -Lieutenants at the head, sallied forth and repulsed them. A few days -later they made an entrance on the Island of St. Catherine, one of the -frontiers, with a force of over three hundred men. They killed the -Sentinels who were six in number, one only escaping, who gave the alarm -and the citizens were able to defend themselves. There were forty-five -Spaniards from this Garrison and about a hundred Natives. They took -refuge in the Convent of the Friar, who teaches the Gospel in that -Province, Captain Francisco Suentes, whom I sent two years ago to take -charge of that place, who defended himself and army with great valor and -distinction from daylight until four o’clock in the afternoon against -these Indians, who were armed with firearms. Instantly upon receiving -information of the danger I sent aid to the number of thirty soldiers on -foot and a vessel with eighteen marines. When they arrived the enemy had -retired. I am assured that among them were several Englishmen who -instructed them in the use of the firearms, which consisted of long -guns. This caused great consternation and horror among the natives who -at first evacuated the Island of St. Catherine, but am informed have -since returned doubling their forces. I had sent eight men to them from -this Garrison and I am resolved to send twenty—it being a place of the -utmost importance to this Garrison, as a protection against invasions -and also to obtain food and supplies. The entrance to the Bar of Zapola -is easy and distant from it, as you can see on the map, only two -leagues. Information has been brought me by a pilot, who left here and -was taken prisoner by the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_139" id="page_139"></a>{139}</span> French, that he overheard them say they would -come to this Province, possess themselves of the Island and Bar of -Zapala. This is damaging news, and my greatest trouble is lack of -troops, for altogether I have only some two hundred and ninety. I have -increased this with a few natives of seemingly good disposition, should -a fight occur in this Fort, but so inexperienced that they could not -support us. This Post is mainly composed of mariners, pilots, -shipmasters and mates, twelve artillerymen, six widows and a few -children to whom, through your mercy, you grant pay, and ten or twelve -decrepit old men who by age are exempt from toil. I have twenty-four men -in Apalache, distant eighty leagues, and two in Timuqua, two in the pass -of Salamatoto, ten leagues distant from this Garrison. The sentinels of -Matanzas and the Bar. All this causes me great distress as I should be -obliged to repair to the field and I have no resources possible with so -few people. Notwithstanding, I propose, with the help of God, to improve -it, and thus will the conversions advance and secure the road to Mexico. -It is expedient to run the English out of that land, and there are not -two hundred firearms in the armory nor among the soldiers and natives. -If the thirty lancers and hundred infantry I sent for three years ago -had come, things would be in a different shape. With a hundred families -to protect, a good deal of aid is needed as speedily as possible and -your Majesty will send them promptly as to the interest of your service. -God protect you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Pablo Ita Salazar.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., May 14th, 1680.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_140" id="page_140"></a>{140}</span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1682.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Don Juan Marquez Cabrera, your Governor and Captain-General of the -Provinces of Florida, gives you an account of how since last February of -this year they have experienced many hostilities in these Provinces from -two French and English fleets who, since they discovered and settled -with ten vessels they brought on these coasts towards the south, have -taken and settled all the entrances and Ports, having seized seven -vessels that were coming and going to the City of Havana, entered and -plundered the Fort of Matanzas with no resistance from those within, and -on another occasion in the same place, where there were forty-five -Spaniards, captains, lieutenants and soldiers, there came four hundred -Indians with firearms and arrows to one of the trenches at the edge of -the two rivers at the foot of the Fort and this time they did not -discharge a single shot, but set fire to the Fort and burned it, being -of wood. I am again rebuilding it in the shape of a bonnet or cap with -its inclinations bias, which it did not have before, with twenty-five -stone houses, so that twelve or sixteen soldiers can defend it. On -retiring they entered the River of Point Martin in Laungara, eighteen -leagues inland and forty from this Garrison; thirty-five Frenchmen -entered and plundered the estate Lachua, imprisoning the owner and some -of his slaves and other persons and their servants. They were assisted -in this by three of the neighbor Casiques, with sixteen Indians. As they -retired they were met by an ambush who liberated the owners of the -estate with the loss of one Indian. Although there were five Spaniards, -with the degree of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_141" id="page_141"></a>{141}</span> Captain who enjoy the rank and pay, excused -themselves on the occasion because they feared if they had any one to -encourage them the enemy would not have left one. As soon as I received -the news, although I am very scarce of people for the defense of the -Castle, I made every effort possible to send the Sergeant-Major of this -Post with forty soldiers as quickly as possible. Finding the enemy -already embarked, I ordered him to obstruct the river, seeing the danger -to this Province, not having had any orders from you to keep it open. -Notwithstanding all the Sergeant-Major’s efforts to place obstructions, -I fear the enemy will invade this Garrison if only to see the Fort that -is being built. It is to be in the shape I have shown you on the map, -and plan I have given the Adjutant Alonzo Solano, superintendent of the -work, a man of much intelligence and quite capable of carrying it on. At -the time the French were destroying the estate Lachua the English landed -at the bar of Mosquito Inlet; they killed ten Indians and captured -eighteen. They had also captured the frigate that left this Post for New -Spain; they captured it with a pirate vessel which had come from -Jamaica, as testified to by the “Autos” I sent, in which I also stated -the other hostilities and depredations as you can see in the Office of -the Royal Council. It is a source of grief to me to see the manner in -which they take these poor Indians and sell them into slavery, as they -have done with many, selling them on the Island of Barbado. They even -take the mixed ones, children of Spaniards and Indians. Although I am -quite advanced on the building and defense of the Castle, I feel -disconsolate when I think of the scarcity of troops and the inferior<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_142" id="page_142"></a>{142}</span> -quality of those I have who are cowardly and pusillanimous as I have -before represented them to you. I repeat it, in hopes that you will send -me at least two good Captains and a hundred first class men. Besides -being dastardly those I have, many of them are too old to be of service, -having been retired and pensioned off. I am heartily sick of those who -have been pensioned off, and of the children who have been pushed into -service with no other object than to receive the pay. While mindful of -the humane interests, this at times is exceedingly trying to my -patience. And so, since the Fort is assuming such shape, I implore you -to give the order needed of sending more men. I also implore your -Majesty that having served you so many years without complaint against -me, that you will replace me in this Garrison and give me permission to -retire.</p> - -<p>God grant you a long and prosperous life.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Marquez Cabrera.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., July 16th, 1682.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Charles II, Our Principal Casique, to the King.</span></h3> - -<p>God, who with His power has created us from nothing, it being His -will—we live, although with work and misfortune, it matters not how, so -we live, with our limited understanding, every day without ceasing as we -are commanded by our Creator, since He so wishes it, we praise and -reverence Him. Leaving this apart we also, the nobility and all in -general, old men and old women, children, orphans and disabled, as many -as are found in this territory called Habalache, every day we say it -seems to us, we do not reverence, embrace<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_143" id="page_143"></a>{143}</span> and receive in our hearts our -principal Casique and King and his noble words. Saying this among -ourselves it seems to make us more humble and disposed to receive your -words when it reaches our ears. As at present, we could long since have -written you, for the obedience we show you, and not waited for your many -noble works, and to make known to you of what we are here seeing and -suffering, being not only ourselves, but all in this world, who were -created from nothing by the will of God. Our priests whose duty it is to -care for our souls, cleanse them and absolve them, teaches us good -things, and takes away and quenches in us ugly and evil things helping -us on to be good Christians, as it is for this you have shown us such -great mercy, and so we recognize it, and are believing with one heart. -Second: Although we are ignorant people, we think that our hearts and -souls belong to our Creator—our bodies and their government, and to -whom they belong to teach and punish is to our Head, whom thou art, and -whom we recognize as our chief Casique and King, and as the grass grows -and has roots, bathed by the dews of night, so we and all your miserable -vassals are nourished by your noble words, and although bodily we do not -see you with our eyes, we take it from the one who represents you as -your Governor and Captain-General—and to him we look as to you and as -your words coming from him who we see, hear and understand, and guard, -believing and obeying him—</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>From information that I was able to gather by means of gifts to the -native Indians, I succeeded in<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_144" id="page_144"></a>{144}</span> finding out the designs of the settlers -of St. George and of the new settlement in St. Elena, where this -Garrison was first—distant from here some sixty leagues. About 50 -Indians, with orders from the Governor of St. Elena, were to enter the -Province of Tamaqua, do all the damage and hostilities they could, -taking prisoners and killing the natives. I immediately sent a dispatch -by carrier to the Lieutenant of that Province to be on guard and care -for the towns. It seems that some six hours before he received my -notice, they had entered and destroyed the town of Afinca, a place of -about sixty natives. About fifty men entered with sixteen guns and the -balance with bows and arrows and machetes, everything exactly as I had -been informed. They belong to the Yamares nation who have retired from -this dominion and gone over to the English. They killed and carried off -the prisoners as certified by a letter from the Lieutenant. I have -restored as far as possible the Garrison of Tamaqua for the peace of its -natives. If I had had the force sufficient I would have sent the vessels -that I have to the settlement of Santa Elena and done them some damage, -but, as it is, I have not sufficient forces for anything. The two -Captains experienced in that part of the country are old, one of 70 and -the other 60 years old. I am sorry to say, the enemy are settling in the -interior, where they find the lands so rich and productive of all kinds -of fruit. Should they come here they could easily capture us for the -lack of men—we need men—more troops. I am informed that forty days -ago, eleven vessels with seven hundred men, had been sent out from -England. I am awaiting them with fear, for lack of men and ammunition we -have. I also<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_145" id="page_145"></a>{145}</span> distrust my sentinels. I hope you will immediately send me -re-enforcements.</p> - -<p>God preserve you, etc.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Marquez Cabrera.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, April 15th, 1685.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The King.</span></h3> - -<p class="hang"> -<i>To my Governor and Captain-General of the City of St. -Augustine in the Province of Florida, and Field Marshal -Don Diego de Quiraga y Lasada, in whose charge that -Government is now</i>:</p> - -<p>The Royal officers of that City have given me an account in different -letters of their having arrived at that Garrison ten remaining negroes, -eight males and two females, from St. George. That they asked for the -waters of baptism, it was given them, after which a Sergeant-Major from -St. George came to claim them. Not appearing to be the proper thing to -return them after becoming Christians, it was agreed upon with the -Sergeant-Major to buy them with the money from my Royal exchequer for -the sum of sixteen hundred dollars, granting a writing to that purpose, -to pay said sum at a stated time specified. To satisfy this I sent to -the new city of Vera Cruz for this sum of money which was brought and -deposited in my Royal coffers of that city, advising the Governor of St. -Augustine and notifying the Governor of St. George to send for it. It -seems they came for it at the time the Governor was distributing aid to -the soldiers. He had notified me of the receipt of this money, but not -receiving a reply, he supposed I was not satisfied with the transaction, -imploring I<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_146" id="page_146"></a>{146}</span> should tell him what to do with the negroes. The men had -been put to work on the Fort, and the women the Governor had retained as -servants in his household. He paid the cost of them, and he only awaited -my orders. In view of all that he asks, through the judge of my Council -of the Indias, it occurs to me to say to you that Don Diego Quiraga was -wanting in his duty by not sending to pay the money deposited in the -Royal coffers for the purchase of said negroes and in the word he had -given the English. He should have considered that in refusing to deliver -them to the English, it was done to protect the religion; this alone -would have sufficed, being as I am such a Catholic. For any excess -expended in their purchase, notwithstanding my failure in replying to -him on this point, and so, it appears strange what this Governor has -done. And so, that you perfectly understand what I order you, as I do -order you, that of the first money which comes into my Royal coffers of -that City you immediately pay up the whole amount, and give the Governor -of St. George perfect satisfaction for the 1,600 dollars agreed upon for -the sale. The defraying of this to be done as quickly as possible. And -as a reward for having come to these provinces to live under the laws of -the Gospel and become Catholics, I order that immediately upon receipt -of this, you give them all their liberty in my name, giving each one, -males and females, a document to that effect, so that seeing their -example others may do likewise. As soon as you have accomplished this -you are to send me a full account, as this is my will.</p> - -<p>I, the King, sent by the King our Lord,</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Don Juan de la Vea</span>,<br /> -<i>Chairman of the Council</i>.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_147" id="page_147"></a>{147}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1689-1698.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Letter of the Governor and Captain-General of Florida, Don Diego -Quiroba y Losada, to his Majesty—Giving an account of a custom -obtaining in the Garrison which he deems dangerous to its -safety—That is, the ringing of the church bells at midnight, when -the Host is taken out to administer communion to the dying until -the same is returned, oftentimes lasting hours, which same drowns -the fire of the sentinel across the river, who is to fire as many -times as there are vessels sighted—This danger has been fully laid -before the Priest, but to no purpose, notwithstanding the city has -been in arms for some days awaiting the enemy—There is also -testimony accompanying this letter of the same purport—His Majesty -by a Cedule of July 18th, 1694, asks for a statement of the order -pursued in the functions of the Edicts of Faith and Anathema and -the places where they conduct the Holy Tribunal of the -Inquisition—These questions answered by Severino Mausaneda, March -17th, 1690—In 1691 Governor and Captain-General of Florida, Don -Diego Guiroga y Lorada, gives an account of a military review of -St. Augustine—Of the great advantage and security to the city of -building a sea wall extending from the Fort the entire length of -the town, thus securing it against the sea which in storms comes up -to the houses—<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_148" id="page_148"></a>{148}</span>The soldiers and citizens subscribe ten thousand -dollars and his Highness is implored to designate a sum to help to -build this wall that the people will be convinced of his Highness’ -interest—The King, A. D. 1698, to the Governor and -Captain-General, Don Diego Guiroga y Losada, of the City of St. -Augustine, in which he rebukes the said Governor for unjustly -taxing the Indians, whom he wishes civilized, and not treated alone -as vassals, but as his children, attending to their comfort and -want, and imposes a fine if the money sent to be spent for canvas -and provisions be not paid to these Indians as per -agreement—Extracts from the investigations of the Council, in -regard to alleged excesses committed by the Governor of Florida, -Don Francisco Moral Sanchez—Besides the scandalous reports -certified to, is his ill treatment of a Captain of Grenadiers -acting according to his own will instead of by military law—The -Royal Officers protest—Certify to the truth of these -investigations, and implore justice from the King—A report -according to his Excellency’s desire concerning affairs under -Governor Don Francisco Marales Sanchez—The investigation shows -that the facts set forth in the different papers and petitions sent -to his Majesty to have been only too true—Impossible to put upon -paper the strange, divers and extraordinary excesses committed by -this Governor.</i> </p></div> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1689.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Today I must give you an account of a custom I have found here, which -might redound to the injury<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_149" id="page_149"></a>{149}</span> of this Garrison. It is that at any hour of -the night when the Host is taken out to administer communion to the -dying the church bells are rung and continue to ring until its return to -the church, with the same solemnity as is done in the day time. Now, -this might cause very serious results, as when we have the sentinel who -is on duty across the river, to fire as many times as there are vessels -in view, then the bells are rung and the people gather together. This -makes us very attentive in listening for the firing and the noise of the -bells at all hours prevents us from hearing and would give the enemy an -opportunity of entering and capturing the Town. I always keep the Fort -well guarded and am prepared, but as we know from so many occurrences in -the Indias in the past few years, all the misfortunes of invasions have -come from carelessness. I have solicited the Priest not to have this -done and even refused to let him have the soldiers to follow in the -procession, but he is very impertinent and says the church belongs to -him and he shall do as it pleases him. Since the 28th of May we have -been in arms awaiting the enemy, and I sent the Priest word not to ring -by one of the soldiers, then by the Sergeant-Major—in spite of my -message he rang the bells from half-past ten at night until half-past -two o’clock. To avoid danger from this, I have given orders that none of -the soldiers attend. If he desists from ringing I will allow him all the -soldiers necessary. Things will work thus until your Majesty orders -otherwise for the safety of this Garrison. God grant you long life.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Diego Quiroba.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., August 16th, 1689.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_150" id="page_150"></a>{150}</span></p> - -<hr /> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Testimony Which Accompanies This Letter.</span></h3> - -<p class="c"> -In the City of St. Augustine, Fla., May 28th, 1689.<br /> -</p> - -<p>The Captain of Cuirassiers, Don Diego Quiroba y Losada, Governor and -Captain-General of this city and Province, by order of your Majesty.</p> - -<p>Says: That this Garrison being in arms and awaiting signals since -Sunday, the 22nd. The church has on several occasions rung the bells -after midnight in taking out the Holy Sacrament, continuing the ringing -for two hours or more, without ceasing. This is contrary to all customs -in Spain and the Indias, where the sacrament is not carried in pomp -after night, but only by the Priest, the sacristan and two other persons -who carry the lights. In a close Garrison it is more strictly observed, -and for that reason should be more strictly enforced in this Garrison, -as such things are risky, especially as we are under arms, and injury -might result, as it would give the enemy time and opportunity to -accomplish their intentions. We are trying to stand on the defensive and -it might injure this very church itself. For this reason I sent word to -the Priest, Don Alonzo de Legurion, Parish Priest and Vicar of this -city, in all due form by St. Sebastian Lopez begging him to cease the -ringing and setting forth the danger which could result. That he should -not go out in pomp, but ask for all the soldiers he wanted and they -would be sent. He would not listen, and threatened the Lieutenant with -excommunication should he return. Another message I sent by the -Sergeant-Major, Pedro Arauda y Avellanedas, to whom he made the same -reply, stating that the Church was his and he would ring when he -pleased—it had been<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_151" id="page_151"></a>{151}</span> given him by the Pontificate, and the Governor had -nothing to do with it, and must not meddle. Such language and conduct -disturbs the public peace. That all this may be certified to I have -ordered testimony taken of the case and had the Sergeant-Major and -Adjutant Sebastian Lopez examined, and so I sent it and sign</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Diego Quiroba y Losada</span>.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Appeared before me, Alonzo Solano, Notary Public of the government, in -the City of St. Augustine, Fla., as witness.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Sebastian Lopez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -May 22nd, 1689.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Captain Diego Quiroba y Losada, Governor and Captain-General of said -city, ordered to appear before me, the Adjutant, Sebastian Lopez, who is -the actual Sergeant-Major in the Garrison, who was in my presence -received and sworn in by the Notary Public, in the name of God and the -Holy Cross, and having promised to tell nothing but the truth. Asked for -the tenor of the Auto at the head of this Document, he said: That at -about half-past two o’clock the bells of the church of this City were -ringing. Having started out, his Lordship, the Governor, called him and -ordered him to take a message to the Priest, telling him that he knew -well that the City was in arms, the enemy being on this coast, and they -had received signals that the vessels were in sight of the City, and to -cease ringing the bells as the noise would prevent them from hearing the -signal “to arms.” That coming to the church he told the Priest to stop -ringing, that it made too much noise. The Priest’s reply was to order -him to leave the church under pain of excommunication,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_152" id="page_152"></a>{152}</span> the witness -returned three times with the Governor’s Message, but no attention was -paid to his Lordship’s Message, and the bells continued to ring. That -this is the truth, under sworn oath he states and affirms and that he is -twenty-two years old and he signs it.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Sebastian Lopez Toledo.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Before me, Alonzo Solano, Notary Public and of the Government. It agrees -with the original of which mention has been made and which I send. -Executed in St. Augustine, Fla., on July 15th, 1689.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Alonzo Solano</span>,<br /> -Notary Public and of the Government.<br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>By Cedule of your Majesty dated in Madrid, July 18th, 1674, you ask for -a statement of the order pursued in the functions of the Edicts of Faith -and Anathena and the places where they conduct the Holy Tribunal of the -Inquisition. And also the cause of the controversies offered by the city -whenever they are performed and what has been done this year. The city -to avoid all scandal resolved to allow the Commissioner of the -Inquisition to conduct things his own way—taking testimony of all the -proceedings to report to your Majesty. These acts have no fixed time, -but left to the arbitration of the Commissioner who has them when he -pleases, every two, three, and even six years. After discussion it was -decided not to have them executed this year, as it is not a regular -custom, and we wished to report before giving more examples of -dissensions. For twenty years the City has allowed itself to be fined -for neglect of duty in assisting at the performances. As there is no -Tribunal of Inquisition<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_153" id="page_153"></a>{153}</span> here the Commissioner succeeded in getting the -City to go to his house for him, and he, precedes the City. In church, -his place to be on the Gospel side, with the humility recognized in such -places. The decision of this controversy seems to depend on Law 20, -Chapter 26, of the ninth recompilation of the Indias. This last, the -Holy Tribunal of the Inquisition pretends is only understood by your -Majesty, the Viceroys and Captain-Generals in whom are found a living -representation. So that to represent the Holy Tribunal of the -Inquisition the power is solely invested in your Commissioner—from this -comes the act of tramping under foot your Government, whom the -Commissioner tries to subdue in all, to his will, as well as the Notary -Public and Ministers. That a stop may be put to his audaciousness it has -seemed wise and prudent to make a report with testimonies attached to -your Majesty, that you may act as you deem proper in the case.</p> - -<p>May God grant you long life.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Severino Mausaneda.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Havana, March 17th, 1690.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1691.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Highness</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Don Diego Quiroga y Lorada, Governor and Captain-General of the Province -of Florida, in a letter dated January 8th, 1690, gives you an account of -the general review which he passed on the soldiers of infantry and -militia of that Garrison. He proposed the advantages and security -occurring to the City by building a wall from the Fort, the whole length -of the City along the sea, seeing the danger in which it now is of being -ruined by floods from the sea<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_154" id="page_154"></a>{154}</span> (which already comes up to the houses) -when we have the slightest storm. The soldiers seeing the necessity of -it, immediately offered what they could, the citizens of the Province -doing likewise, that the work might advance. I send a certificate -showing that the amount of the offering they have made is ten thousand -dollars, and that they will use every effort to build the wall, and they -have commenced to get out the stone and other necessary things. I -implore your Highness to designate a sum to help build this wall, which -is so important and that these poor soldiers and citizens may feel -encouraged to give more, seeing that your Majesty helps them in such -needed work, since nothing less depends upon this wall than the -preventing a flood of the place and separating the Castle, losing all -that has been spent in the building of it. The Board is obliged to -represent you. What the voluntary contributions of the soldiers and -citizens of the Province is for the building of this wall, estimate the -cost of it, and how much will be needed to continue the work, and with -this and what you order, the Count of Galva, Viceroy of the New Spain, -must send to Florida the sum of two thousand dollars, that the Governor -may apply it to this work, and that he inform the Board of the size, -latitude and thickness, the design of it, that they may better -understand it. And that the Royal Officers certify that said portion of -the two thousand dollars was spent on this work, sending an exact -account and cause. Then, the soldiers and citizens of Florida seeing -that your Majesty takes an interest in them and helps them, will feel -encouraged to continue subscribing. You will decide as most convenient.</p> - -<p>Madrid, August 11th, 1691.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_155" id="page_155"></a>{155}</span></p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The King.</span></h3> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>To the Field Marshal Don Diego Quiroga y Losada—My Governor and -Captain-General of the City of St. Augustine, in the Province of -Florida, or to the Person or Persons in Whose Care His Government -May Be</i>: </p></div> - -<p>In a letter of June the 8th, 1640, it refers, among other things, that -you have sought the means of spending the money assigned for the -purchasing of canvas and provisions for the Indians of the Pass of the -River Salamototo, as was evident by the certificate and agreement that -together with the Royal Officers of that city you made. Seeing all in my -Council of War of the Indians—how special attention was called to the -new tax imposed for the canoes that serve as transports at the referred -river, I have resolved to order and command you (as I do) that the -moment you receive this order, that you revoke the one by which you have -distinguished yourself together with the Royal Officers, as the -agreement of the 1st of February, of 1698, being worthy of reproof, the -one that you and they are working in this matter, without any orders -whatsoever from me—as should always be the case in questions of this -nature especially when my royal soul is so moved towards the Indians, my -desire so great, that they should be civilized and treated not alone as -my vassals, but as my own children subjugating them and attending to -their wants and comfort. Thus you will proceed to revoke what you have -done. Advise my Royal Officers by dispatch of the date that they take -note of this resolution in the books under their charge—so that at all -times it shall be evident. And I also command that you immediately have -published and posted proclamations to this effect in all<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_156" id="page_156"></a>{156}</span> public places -in the city and Province inserting to the letter in the proclamation the -contents of this dispatch, and sending to the board by the first -opportunity presenting itself, testimony of having executed this -procedure. A fine of a thousand reals imposed upon you, to be remitted -if you do not execute this order immediately in the form that I have -imposed and commanded. And that the canoes remain and be paid as they -have been up to the present, and as they were up to the date when you -imposed the above expressed tax. And you shall advise me clearly and -plainly what has been the amount of these taxes up to the date of -receipt of this dispatch, and if there be any portion of it, you have it -placed at once in my Royal Chest in that city, to remain there until -receiving my further orders. So does it suit me and my Royal service.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The Council.</span></h3> - -<p>Continuing the account of investigations which have been obtained and -were promised in a letter of October 22nd to ascertain with certainty of -the excesses committed by the Governor of Florida, Don Francisco Moral -Sanchez.</p> - -<p>The Council makes known that the events are so strange and -extraordinary, which by divers means have been understood to have taken -place in that Garrison and its administration, that the very excess -itself stuns one with astonishment and paralyzes the credulity of our -mind—but, having complied with his duty as commanded, he explains: That -he is quite assured of the truth of the report of the Engineer Don -Antonio Arredondo, who was an eye-witness and had<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_157" id="page_157"></a>{157}</span> no reason whatever to -judge him otherwise than impartially, being in no conceivable manner -dependent. That his report agrees in every particular with the other -letters written of the excesses of the above mentioned Governor as will -be recognized by the document which accompanies this and is certified to -by the Engineer Arredondo at the continuation of them in a private -declaration made by the decree expedited for this purpose.</p> - -<p>That the few Indians of our faith represent and express their true -sentiments, as indicated by a document I remit to this Council, through -the Rev. Bishop of Micale, which they obliged Señor Arredondo to receive -and remit to your Majesty. That other certificates of military and -private individuals of that Garrison, with other documents which -accompany this, and not only confirm, but add such scandalous excesses -of the private life of that Governor, that it is impossible to find -decent and decorous words with which to express them. And some of these -words are from the mouth of religious Monks and Priests who affirm all -these letters as well as the one written by Don Antonio Benavides—there -are also later letters giving accounts of the same proceedings.</p> - -<p>Besides the scandalous reports being certified to by all, in about the -same manner, they accuse the Governor of his treatment of the Captain of -Grenadiers Don Felipe de Iturrieta, commandant of the detached troops, -forgetting his personal merits, and official position, and his being a -person of implicit integrity. He had him thrust into prison in a most -shameful and scandalous manner—even depriving him of the resources of -writing—and after trampling him in every<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_158" id="page_158"></a>{158}</span> way he incriminates him for -disobedience in the performance of his duties—a mere pretense, for it -was that this Officer refused to neglect his duty or allow his men to do -so, by being off guard at the Barracks, where it is imperative, -according to all military laws that guards should be at their post. The -Governor wishing the men for his private purposes ignored or formed -false conception of military duties and suspended and imprisoned the -Captain. Of the same nature is the charge made against him of violating -the Royal ordinance and defying it—when he replied to the Governor in -words which would rather indicate respect. It is a shameful act to treat -an Officer of honor of his well known character, who has the heavy -responsibilities which are recognized as belonging to said Captain, and -are certified to in the statements of the circumstances, as also a -petition in which is set forth all that has occurred, and imploring that -justice be shown Captain Iturrieta that he may not be stigmatized. While -all written in these reports and certificates are true, I did not depose -him immediately from office until I received the report asked of the -Bishop of Micale, knowing his prudence and virtue and that his word -would be more approved than all else in the case. In the meantime while -awaiting his report I am taking every step to conquer the difficulties -which may arise to name a subject who can act in the interim, because it -seems the need is so great that it is impossible to form any resolution -whatever in the case pending in that Province, and this consideration -has suspended all movement of removing him until the order comes for -doing so. This in our judgment being more prudent, as the referred to -Governor is so engrossed<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_159" id="page_159"></a>{159}</span> in his private affairs as certified to in the -papers of Don A. Arredondo, in which he speaks of the Barracks for -lodging the soldiers, and the looking into this matter belongs to the -Viceroy of New Spain—that in proper time he take the precautions which -he deems most essential.</p> - -<p>Concluding with the disposal of the reports, and taking the less -scandalous means to depose the Governor of Florida, Don Francisco Moral -Sanchez, as he has not been forewarned of what is to happen, it seems -doubtful which is the best means to adopt, we will therefore consider -the matter with more deliberation proceeding in the safest and most -certain way and rendering a personal account as quickly as possible -thereafter.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">The Council.</span><br /> -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Excellent Lord</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>In conformity with what your Excellency desires, and satisfying the -private order sent me, asking a report and true statement of affairs -under the Governor Don Francisco Morales Sanchez. To assure myself from -a responsibility devoid of all partiality, and to the truth of the -excesses perpetrated by this Governor and a few other private -individuals and priests, of which that Garrison wrote you a complaint, -asking that you immediatly depose the Governor and name some one in his -place, <i>pro tem.</i>, so that your Majesty being informed, may place some -one who looks more to your interests. For this purpose you sent me a -blank dispatch, that in time, I might fill out with the names of the -subject elected and the investigation I had made in this affair. I must -say, that they are so<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_160" id="page_160"></a>{160}</span> strange and extraordinary, and such divers means -used in their performance—that the accounts I hear in this garrison -chill the soul and congeal the blood in one’s veins. There is no way of -hiding the misery and misfortune to which this Garrison is exposed. With -the same truthfulness I must expose the fact, that I am positively -certain from the reports of the Engineer Don Antonio Arredondo, as an -eye-witness, that all the excesses committed by this Governor are -strictly true as written you and certified to in a report from this -Garrison.</p> - -<p>The few Indians of our faith represent and express their lamentable -sentiments on a paper written you, and sent through the Rev. Bishop of -Micale. Other certificates of priests, military men, and private -individuals of that Garrison, which I enclose add such scandalous -excesses in the manner of living of that Governor that I cannot find -decent words in which to express it. Some of these are signed by the -same priests who wrote to Don Antonio Benavides, and there are others, -citing what the Governor has perpetrated on the Captain of Grenadiers, -Don Felipe Iturricta, whom I sent there. Forgetting his merits and that -he was a person of implicit confidence, whom I trusted for his -unimpeachable conduct, they have placed him in prison under scandalous -circumstances, intending to take from him the management of the troops -over whom I placed him. He has been under the most rigorous guard, -searching even his food, depriving him of the privilege of writing to -ask for a hearing, accusing him of crimes and lack of obedience. They -have no other course, in my opinion, than a pretext, as this Officer has -fulfilled his duty with promptness<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_161" id="page_161"></a>{161}</span> and rectitude, showing only the -ordinary precautions observed in the regiments for infinite reasons. The -guards cannot be excused from the Barracks where the troop is -stationed—which is one of the principal rudiments of military -tactics—as well for safety as anything which might occur. The Captain -insisted on maintaining these principles from which has arisen this -trouble, and the assigning of the wrong conception of duty and want of -obedience preferred against him. Of the same nature is the other charge: -that he had defied the Governor. To this Captain Iturricta replied: if -you were not the Governor you could not use such language to me—showing -that he respected the office of Governor. The Governor does not seem to -recognize the respect due to a man and Officer of standing and -distinguished character, and let me add incidentally, placed here by me, -as commandante of a detached body, to encourage and hold this fagged out -Garrison. They should consider it an honor, for so distinguished a -personage to accept this place, and so honorably discharge his duty. -Your Majesty will understand all from the report of said Captain and the -testimonials stating the circumstances. I also enclose a petition from -the Captain in which he implores you to do him justice, a virtue so in -keeping with your Royal heart, and not allow an officer of his standing -to remain in disgrace. I can positively assure you, that had not the -Captain and other Officers been true and faithful to their duty, they -could have caused much trouble among the inhabitants of this Garrison, -from this unjust act. Although I have reported all the abuses said to -have been committed by the present Governor of Florida, and you should -place some one<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_162" id="page_162"></a>{162}</span> of experience and good conduct in his place. I hope that -your Majesty with your great experience, will pardon me for troubling -you on the present occasion, and look unprejudiced into this affair. All -that has been said of the matter, and all that I have been commanded in -so important a trust—I am trying to investigate to the very root. Going -cautiously, feeling my way, trying to right troubles without any -scandal, so that I may send you the name of some worthy subject who can -act <i>pro tem.</i> in that capacity—as, from all the information I have -expounded it seems urgent you should remove this man, so as to restore -the confidence your vassals have in your Majesty, and the responsibility -I represent. The engineer, Don Antonio Arredondo, assures me no other -expedient can be taken, while the present Governor is so engrossed in -his own private interests, as you may infer from the last chapter.</p> - -<p>Regarding the Barracks for lodging the hundred men, it is an evident -fact, that but for the persistent effort of the Engineer Arredondo, they -would have been returned to that Kingdom. All of which he reported to -the Viceroy of Mexico that he might take the necessary precautions. -Having disposed of the duty of having the Governor removed, I am -doubtful of what will be best to do next toward your Majesty’s -interests, but I shall act as in my judgment seems best and as -circumstances present themselves.</p> - -<p>May God preserve you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Juan Francisco Horcasitas.</span><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_163" id="page_163"></a>{163}</span><br /> -</p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1708-1723.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Letter from Francisco Carcoles y Martinez to his Majesty reports -all possible measures taken to prevent the enemy from destroying -this Province—The Indians, aided by the English who supply them -with guns, ammunition, knives and pistols, come from the Indian -villages bordering the Carolinas and carry off each day certain -persons—Families and Christians taken off to be sold into -slavery—More than ten thousand up to the present have -disappeared—A treaty urged with the English of the Carolinas, else -there will be a continuation of war and the spread of the Holy -Gospel impeded—In a second letter the Governor gives an account of -certain Friars who are getting up a dispute and lawsuit with the -Priest of the Parish concerning the right and whose right to marry -soldiers, Spaniards, Indians or mixed Indians—These disputes -brought before the Governor to settle, who in turn refers them to -his Majesty—Recommends the abolishing of all Heathen customs—By a -Royal dispatch, A. D. 1721, the Governor of Florida is commanded to -go in person to the Governor of the Carolinas and arrange with him -the observance of the Treaty of Peace between the English and -Spanish of those Provinces adjoining, which same was carried out as -far as possible—A letter from the Governor, Antonio<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_164" id="page_164"></a>{164}</span> Benavides, -reports the sending of clothing and trinkets to pacify the Casiques -and Chiefs of the Province of Apalachicola—Find the Indians -restless and making preparations for war—English spreading -dissatisfaction—A Council of War decides to send a vessel to -Havana for arms, men and provisions in anticipation of troubulous -times.</i> </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The Governor’s Letter.</span></h3> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1708.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Your Lordship</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>My principal care since assuming control as Governor has been to procure -by all possible means to prevent the enemy from destroying at once this -Province, and the few natives of it who have remained. When I took -possession I called a meeting of the Board to discuss matters and we -decided to retire the troops from the town of Santa Fe, adding those of -San Francisco and the infantry that was at the pass of Salamototo river, -as I have already informed you on the 20th of November, 1706, so that -with a larger force we might resist the enemy, and the citizens of this -City feel some relief. I had built on the line a thick palisade, as I -informed you. I have also organized a company of cavalry who should go -about on the skirts, as they have done, to gather up stores and guard -the carpenters and persons who go out to work cutting timber for the -Royal buildings. This has not sufficed to stop the enemy from continuing -their scalping and hostilities which are being constantly felt. They -come from the Indian villages bordering on the Carolinas, aided by the -English, who supply them with guns, ammunition, knives and pistols; at -times they even accompany them, which strengthens and encourages<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_165" id="page_165"></a>{165}</span> them -so that all the terra firma along the southern coast is desolate. And -each day the number of families these Indians carry off is increased. -The Christians have all disappeared, no doubt they have taken and sold -them into slavery—more than ten or twelve thousand persons have gone. I -have about three hundred with men, women and children. Even these are -being carried away daily, when they go out to gather (guano) palmetto -with which the Indians clothe themselves—and wild roots which they use -for eating, not having sufficient with the Royal Rations which we daily -allow them. Today they bring me an account of how they carried off —— to -Mica, who had gone out in search of roots—in all they have carried -today twenty-eight persons, four of whom escaped and have brought the -news. The fact of there being some capitulation of peace would be much -added to the service of God and your Majesty by relieving us of these -miserable Indians. All the natives from this Province are sold, -imprisoned or detained in the Carolinas. If a treaty could be made with -England to prevent the English in Carolina from supplying them with -arms, ammunition, etc., for it is with this they make war against us, -and the dexterity with which they use them is amazing—as though they -had been brought up to their use. Unless such a treaty can be -immediately reached, hostilities will continue, and in this America -there will never be anything but war. And the English will always have -the Indians on their side, as they protect them and furnish them with -arms and ammunition, as they have done heretofore. Unless this treaty -can be effected immediately, the best thing for us to do will be to -abandon the place entirely, as you have sug-<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_166" id="page_166"></a>{166}</span>gested, before they -desolate it. But as it is so important to the Crown and the vast -importance and revenue which will and can be derived from it would make -it deplorable to give it up now. Besides the great importance of -spreading the Holy Gospel, as it is being done, has made me delay in -giving you this necessary information.</p> - -<p>May God guard you for many years as a true Christian.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco Córcoles y Martinez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., January 14th, 1708.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter of the Governor of Florida to His Majesty.</span></h3> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1708.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>The continued coming of the enemy who took up quarters at San Francisco -Garrison, caused the natives to retire to this Garrison to seek -protection under the Royal arms. From the same fear, the palisade castle -of Salamototo having been attacked, the few natives withdrew, running -from the cruel ravages of these enemies. About eight or nine persons -having called a meeting to discuss the matter of evacuating these -Garrisons, the board decided that for the safety and better security of -these natives it would be best to evacuate them. A more extensive -account is given you in the testimony of each thing that I remit with -this information, so that you may be well notified of the reasons for -retiring from these two towns and others near them, that had already -been deserted. We have assigned them land near by, in line of the cannon -of this Royal Fort, and we are maintaining them and helping with the -best we can at your expense and from the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_167" id="page_167"></a>{167}</span> Royal warehouses so that they -may not perish until they can till the land and raise a crop to help -support themselves, until things take a better turn. I hope your Majesty -will approve and accept in good faith the step taken by the Board and -that I am working and maintaining these natives for the best and -greatest service of your Majesty. May God guard you as a Christian.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco Córcoles y Martinez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., November 30th, 1708.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter of the Governor of Florida to His Majesty.</span></h3> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1709.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I write to give you an account of the Friars of San Francisco. Fray -Francisco, Teacher of the Gospel at Santa Maria de Guale, and the -guardian of this Convent, Fray Martin de Molina, have been trying to get -up lawsuits and have had disputes with the Pastor of this Parish, Don -Pedro Lorenzo Acevido. These Friars are opposed to having the Pastor -marry the soldiers or any Spaniard to the Indians or mixed Indians, -wishing themselves to administer this and the other sacraments to them -and their children. For this they have drawn up Autos and presented them -to me that I might grant them justice. I referred them each to your -Majesty, suggesting that they draw up their testimony and I am to -reserve the right of informing you on the subject. I therefore call to -your Royal attention how these law suits, occurring daily, only tend to -disturb the peace. This is all done, because these Friars, to obtain the -fee, wish now to administer these sacraments, which have been -administered for the last thirty years by the parish priest of this -parish, who has performed<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_168" id="page_168"></a>{168}</span> the marriage ceremony and had them watch -(velar) from the fathers down to the grandchildren, without once -interfering with the rights of these Friars to administer to their own -people, the Indians in the towns they have charge of, and whose language -they understand, and as is customary, if a soldier or any one wishes to -marry an Indian or mixed Indian they must do so in the Parish and church -to which the Indian belongs—thus, by degrees, leaving off all Heathen -customs. Your Majesty after seeing the Autos and receiving this -information will decide as he thinks best and most desirable for the -good of all. May God preserve your Royal person that you may show -justice.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco Córcoles y Martinez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., September 12th, 1709.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1722.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>By your Royal dispatch of May 25th of last year, 1721, you commanded me -that taking advantage of the suspension of arms and the friendly -relations I had observed with the English of the Carolinas since then; -that your request at the Court of London had been granted. That under -all these circumstances I should go in my official capacity to the -Governor of Carolina and arrange with him to observe strictly the -Treaty, that the vexation among the Indians who were allied to the two -nations should cease. I immediately complied with your order and sent -the Contador, Don Francisco Menendez, accompanied by other officials, -from this Garrison, with the commission of having a firm agreement with -the Governor of Carolina to make the Indians attached to his nation<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_169" id="page_169"></a>{169}</span> and -to cease aggravating those with us, and thus live in peace and -tranquility, pursuing agriculture. This peace being as important to one -nation as the other, for, should war be declared, there would be no end -to it. To this proposition and others as certified in the accompanying -letter which I take this occasion of sending you, the Governor and -Parliament of the Carolinas replied that they had received no such -orders from the King of Great Britain, but that notwithstanding he would -try to enforce peace during the suspension of arms. Immediately upon the -arrival of Don F. Menendez in the Carolinas he was notified that the -English had constructed a wooden fort on the tongue at the mouth of -Talauje Province on your Majesty’s territory, where, for many years the -Indians and Guajas were settled and by reason of the siege this nation -put on this Garrison, they had retired to where they still are. Don -Francisco Menendez hearing this, considered it wrong for them to -trespass upon your Territory, and so stated it to the Governor, and also -that he feared harm would result from it. The reply given was: that the -King of Great Britain had ordered them to strengthen his dominions with -fortifications in any form they deemed expedient. Under different -pretexts the “Contador” tried to have them show the order, but they -refused to do so, saying it was sufficient that they said they had the -order, and the Governor of Florida had nothing at all to do with it. -From which I infer, your Lordship, that with the arrival of this new -Governor in these colonies, not only will he complete the building of -this Fort and settlement, but that he will also settle all the islands -belonging to this jurisdiction,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_170" id="page_170"></a>{170}</span> thus making the Carolinas impregnable -and reducing this Garrison to a more lamentable state than it is in -today on account of its easy access to the Indians who would immediately -come to possess themselves of the ammunition and arms which it is the -very heighth of their ambition to obtain. So Menendez learned that -provision had been made by the English Government to equip this Colony, -and they were awaiting, at any moment, vessels with supplies and arms. -Then, at a moment’s notice, they will invade this Castle, it being their -great ambition, and the only and sole aim of it, to capture this Fort -for the protection of the New England, and the great use they could make -of it in capturing your Majesty’s vessels coming through the Bahama -Channel. In giving you this information I feel that I not only comply -with my royal duty, but also discharge the debt to my conscience in -showing you the danger of this Province. With this intelligence you can -act as most agreeable and convenient. May God preserve your Royal -personage for many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Antonio Benavides.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Apr. 21st, 1722.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>The letter accompanying it:</p> - -<p class="r"> -St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 11th, 1722.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Finding myself with an order from the King of Spain, my Lord and Master, -for security with this and that government of reciprocal relations -regarding the hostilities which on one and the other side has been -completed, for the welfare of the Indians, I resolved to send to the -Carolinas the “Contador” Don Francisco Menendez Marques, with other -officials accompanying him, to confer with his Excellency and<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_171" id="page_171"></a>{171}</span> the Lords -of Parliament for some agreement by which the annoyances of the infidel -Indians toward those attached to our nation, might cease, and they be -allowed to continue their agricultural pursuits without further -disturbances and incentives—and not forgetting the agreement with Don -Francisco Menendez Marques that during the suspension of arms, they try -not to hostile the Indians of this Nation. That I, for my government, -will keep them in subjection as I have done ever since the news of -suspension of arms arrived, but that, if they should in any way fail in -their agreement, they might rest assured that I shall take vengeance, -and nothing shall deter me but their absolute subjection to our -agreement. I shall make all necessary provision and watch with zeal, as -I am fully persuaded that the keeping of this reciprocal agreement is -the only foundation for tranquility and peace. Your Excellency will -acknowledge receipt of this, and the agreement reached with Señor -Menendez Marquez, that I may report to our King and Master.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Antonio Benavides.</span><br /> -</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">To the King From the Governor of Florida.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I place in your Royal hands the testimony of the letter written me by -the Commandant whom I have in charge of the Garrison and Fort of San -Marco, forwarded to him by Lieutenant Don Diego Pena who, by order, was -sent to visit the Province of Apalachicola, with clothing and trinkets -to gratify the Casiques and Chiefs. Both inform me that the Province of -the Talepuses and others partial to the English of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_172" id="page_172"></a>{172}</span> Carolinas, are -restless and trying to destroy the nation of Arinaco who yield obedience -to this government. That they are making all preparations for war, which -from the evil designs we may soon expect. The number of the discontented -is far in the ascendency of those who seem to be on our side, but in -whom we can place no confidence, they being so deceitful. Then again, -the fear they may entertain seeing that the English are mustering the -Indians of so many nations and spreading dissatisfaction among them, -against the Spaniards. The news given us by the Lieutenant that some of -those we should and ought to trust have him detained in Colache from -where he wrote this letter which, with the one from the commandant, I -attach to these “Autos.” Of the steps taken by the Council of War, whom -I called together to discuss this matter, I will not send you testimony -nor in any way trouble you. I shall only make known to your Royal -intelligence that the Council of War decided to send a vessel to Havana -with letters to the Governor of that place, that he might aid us in -sending provisions, arms and men—the latter to land at some point -further down and, taking horses, make their way in by land. The enemy -may already have the place blockaded. Should you decide that this plan -ought not to be carried out I am willing to sacrifice my life to have -the disturbances among these Nations cease, and that all under control -of this Government should live in peace, without any of the prejudices -of those who disturb them. Besides, as is written in the Holy Gospel, -“we will ravish the enemy, punish and destroy them.” But, my Lord, the -condition of this garrison is such that it will be impossible for us to -hold out for any<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_173" id="page_173"></a>{173}</span> length of time. The rapidity with which they are -gathering and preparing indicates we are to have serious and trying -times. Ever since 1702 our forces have been falling off, and we are -weak. In giving you this information I am stating truths and fulfill my -duty. Act as in your judgment with the aid of God is best.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Antonio Benavides.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., August 18th, 1723.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_174" id="page_174"></a>{174}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1736-1739.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p> -<i>In a letter to his Majesty Governor Señor Montiano -says it is reported that Don Diego Oglethorpe has -said openly “that should he receive orders from -his Government to fix the boundary limits between -the Spanish possessions and the Carolinas he -would so delay the execution that there should -never be a sign of these limits”—Montiano thinks -it would be wise for such a gentleman to be removed -as it can never be possible to discuss questions -of importance with him—In A. D. 1738 the -same Governor reports the result of a trip of -investigation by one Juan Ygnacio de los Reyes, -an Indian—Under the pretext of giving himself -up from having killed an Indian, he gains much -information concerning the English, their plans -against the Spanish, misleading the English as to -the strength, numbers and condition of Spanish -fortifications, finally escaping under pretext of -hunting—Returns with valuable information to -the Spanish—Statement of what has been ordered -regarding the aid to Florida Provinces, the dislodging -of the enemy from certain settlements on -its territory, since its government up to 1674—Dispatch -of 1675 commands that if the negro -slaves sent to Havana have not already been sold, -they shall be sent to Florida, to be put to work on<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_175" id="page_175"></a>{175}</span> -the construction of the Castle to relieve the Indians.</i> -</p> -</div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter for His Majesty from the Governor of Florida, Señor Montiano.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>My Lord</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>In a letter of the 28th of March of this year, you were kind enough to -acknowledge receipt of my letter of August 14th of last year, in which I -reported that Don Diego Oglethorpe, Commander of the English colonies, -had said openly that although he should receive orders from his King and -Court to fix the boundary limits between this government’s possessions -and those of the Carolinas, he would delay the execution of it, so that -there should never be a sign of these limits, and they must bear this -always in mind, for whatever might present itself. With this -intelligence it would be well to relieve these Colonies of such a man, -because on questions of importance upon any occurrence which should need -discussion, it would be exceedingly troublesome to manage a gentleman -who even refuses to answer my former letters. This is all I can say on -the subject—placing it before your Sovereign Majesty to whom God grant -many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Manuel Montiano.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., August 11th, 1736.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1738.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Information given by the Indian, Juan Ygnacio de los Reyes, of the -Iquaha Nation, one of the neighbors of the town of Pocotalaca in the -immediate vicinity of this Garrison. He says: That he left under my -orders<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_176" id="page_176"></a>{176}</span> on the 4th of July of this year to go to the neighboring English -colony, and ascertain by as many ways and artifices as he could, their -intentions, the state or condition they are in, and everything. He took -a small canoe at the Fort of Picolata and went down that river and -sailed through the mouth of the Sarabai, going as far as the Fort of San -Pedro, which belongs to the English, meditating upon what scheme he -should take to gain all this information, and not go about hiding and -endangering his life needlessly. He thought of delivering himself up, as -he did, pretending that he had killed an Indian here, and was fleeing -not to be hung; that he was seeking protection from them. On learning -this he was favorably received, and could see a Fort which was square -and stockaded with two pieces and a cannon looking seaward; in it was a -detachment of twenty soldiers more or less, there is no neighborhood, -and saw but four houses before coming to the Fort or Stockade; a few -laborers planting corn; that the soldiers who are there are from a small -vessel or Piroque of war, intended to seek the mouths of rivers; that -from this Fort of San Pedro he was taken by two soldiers to the Bar of -Ballenas, that is where the first place called San Andres is, there he -saw a number of soldiers drilling with spears, and although he did not -then know their exact number, he afterwards learned in St. Simons from -Lieutenant-Colonel Cochran that there were three hundred; that he there -saw a number of houses, newly built and close together as in Havana, a -number of English women, wives of the soldiers, but he could not tell -the number of houses in the place; that there is also a square Fort, -with four cannon, towards the sea, and on the other side he could<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_177" id="page_177"></a>{177}</span> not -see; that there were small guard houses around it. He could not see if -they had artillery, because they would not allow him too near; that from -here to the sea inland by the Bay there is a thick palisade of earth -with a parapet and at the extreme end there is a wharf and they told him -that there they had flints for the Spaniards, and they keep a launch -ready and armed so that at any moment of the day or night she can be -used. She is manned with sixteen men. They carried him to St. Simons to -the presence of Colonel Cochran. Immediately upon his arrival there, -they sent six soldiers with bayonets to escort him to the Colonel’s -house. He was asked where he was going, he replied to seek protection -and favor from them; he had killed an Indian in St. Augustine. Colonel -Cochran extended his hand to him, but when he went to take it he only -gave him one finger. He was asked about the Armada which was to -encounter them; how many vessels and men it brought. He told them he had -not seen it, but had heard there were a hundred vessels with more than -4,000 men, and that the Governor of St. Augustine had told them to -return, that he did not wish to hurt the English. He was asked how many -troops were in this Garrison—he replied that there used to be four -companies of one hundred soldiers on horse, but that recently five more -companies of one hundred men each had arrived. They then asked if there -was much silver in Florida. He replied: Yes, as there were so many -soldiers, money flowed freely. Then Colonel Cochran told him all that -would soon belong to the King of Great Britain. He was then asked about -the Castle and Garrison. He told them the Castle had one hundred and -sixty cannons so large he could not reach<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_178" id="page_178"></a>{178}</span> around them; the Garrison had -twelve bulwarks with ten cannon each. To which Colonel Cochran told him: -Well, see here; when you hear that General Oglethorpe, whom I am -expecting with seven thousand men, has arrived, then you will see me -place a vessel of war at the mouth of the Bar, and prevent any food from -entering Florida. On the keys I shall place others and no one shall -enter Havana, expressing himself in such a way as to say that the King -of England would gain more by taking Florida than Gibraltar; that while -that was advantageous, this would yield them a great deal more. This -conversation was continued, asking if the Castle could be reached if -there was water inside, to all of which he told them it was impossible. -Speaking of the Governor, he asked for a grape arbor he had in his -house, said to yield great quantities of grapes. He told them the -Governor was a saintly man, and that while he knew him to be so good, he -could not help but flee from the punishment he knew he deserved for -killing the Indian, because the Governor was also a just man. That it -was true he had a grape arbor producing large quantities of grapes. -Colonel Cochran then said: Very well, within one or two years we will -make our wine and whiskey there. He says that day and night he never -tired asking about Florida; that now they were fortifying to afterwards -come and take it; that in St. Simons he had three hundred troops, as -many more in San Andres and Sabanato. He had brought these to take -Florida, but hearing of the Spanish Armada, they had desisted and sent -for seven thousand more men, whom Oglethorpe would bring, and upon the -arrival of this Commander in less than two months they would<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_179" id="page_179"></a>{179}</span> gather -506,000 Indians; that he would make his entrance by the river St. Johns -in schooners and small vessels and disembark at a place some seven -leagues distant from Florida, where they had two small ports. These Juan -Ygnacio saw with his own eyes, where they have the men they were -drilling at San Andres. That in St. Simons he saw ten squares with ten -houses and seventy houses in six squares, the other four squares were -not completed. That in each of the houses they lodged six soldiers. That -he also saw a Fort with fifteen cannon, and as it was in a bad -condition, they were making brick to rebuild it. That going out to hunt, -he came near the house of “Frederico” distant from St. Simons three -leagues more or less. The English would not allow him to enter there, -but turned him back to St. Simons. That about one league from this place -he saw a vessel called the Mamal, and there he saw them building six -large houses in which they had fifty men, that they had large timber -works. This he knows positively, having been there twice. That Cochran -and another Englishman whom he thinks they call William Houston, he -overheard say that they had offered the Indians fifty dollars for every -Spanish scalp they killed, black or white, or Christian Indian, any one -partial to Spain. That his escape to return was accomplished in the -following manner: That one Thursday at ten o’clock in the morning he -told Cochran that he was going hunting, if he found no game he would -remain over night and fish, returning the next day; he allowed him to -go; taking advantage of the occasion he took his canoe and sailed along -the rivers until Friday morning, when he got on terra firma, leaving<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_180" id="page_180"></a>{180}</span> -his canoe he walked two days in the direction of the sunset, then -crossed over the land and at the end of ten days he was on the St. Johns -river where he found the launch from this Garrison, which is there on -guard. Having called and taken his shirt for a flag, they went and -brought him over. The same day he started for this place where he -arrived at twelve o’clock at night and gave the information as I send -it.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Manuel Montiano.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Aug. 20th, 1738.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>By a Cedula of June 20th, 1671, the Viceroy of New Spain has been -ordered to communicate with the Governor of Florida, hoping that through -his zeal much can be accomplished in the cause of the English, -preventing them from getting a strong foothold so near the mouth of the -river St. Elena, which would be prejudicial to our interests. Therefore -the Viceroy is requested to give all the aid required. As to the -proposed fortification to this Port for its defense, do what is -necessary to defend the Province and communicate also with the Viceroy -whom I have commanded to try and give all the assistance possible, -always bearing in mind not to violate the laws of the capitulation of -peace. The Governor of Havana being nearest to Florida was also -commanded to communicate with the Governor of Florida and render all the -aid and assistance possible in the dislodging of the English from the -river St. Elena, who if remaining in said place would cause much -trouble. The Governor of Florida must also keep him informed of the -state of affairs. In a letter dated April, 1671, the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_181" id="page_181"></a>{181}</span> Viceroy Marquez de -Mancera gives an account of the aid sent to the Garrison of St. -Augustine in accordance with Cedula received. The papers showing that -this aid had been received and approved by the Council of War, -accompanying this letter, which also states the order given the Governor -of New Spain to be very careful in keeping a continual correspondence -with the Governor of Florida, send supplies promptly, and notify the -Viceroy of all that occurs. Act in every way for the best security of -that Garrison, using the greatest diligence in its fortification and -defense, being as I understand of such importance. State what steps have -been taken in regard to the fortification that was to be built, and to -which reference is made in this dispatch to the Governor Manuel Cendovia -and if the supplies of the soldiers and provisions to begin the work -have arrived.</p> - -<p>By Cedula of May 9th it was again commanded the Viceroy, calling his -special attention to it, that he must aid and supply this Garrison that -it may be in readiness for any emergency which may arrive. By another -Cedula the Governor of Florida was to inform the inhabitants of that -Fort, find out if they had their full quota for its defense, or if they -found it necessary to increase the number on account of the new -settlement of English sixty miles north. How long they had been there, -and if they were sufficiently provided to dislodge the English, which -information must be given so as to provide all and anything that is -necessary. The Governor represented that in the past, the number of -infantry in the Garrison was three hundred in which were included men of -different trades, forty missionary priests without whom the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_182" id="page_182"></a>{182}</span> number was -not complete, adding that the total number was three hundred. When the -news of the looting by the English arrived they immediately sent to the -Viceroy of New Spain to send five hundred men to increase the infantry, -appealing to Mexico for more men to complete the number, they replied -that they had sent assistance to other Garrisons where they were -watching and had to have supplies and artillery, so that the War -Department had provided all it could. But to send to Havana and have the -Governor of that Post to act as he had been commanded and send with the -utmost speed the necessary defense for that Garrison. That the Viceroy -had been notified to order the Royal officers of Mexico to increase the -supplies of Florida each year by forty-three recruits, so that there -should never be less than three hundred and ninety in quarters. A Notice -of which was sent the Governor of Florida that he might keep them -informed of its fulfilment. To pay special care and vigilance to the -Province, having it well defended against accident from the enemy -entering, they could instantly banish and punish them. The Governor of -Florida also made known the great want of artillery, having consulted -with the War Department that same date, the War Department ordered the -Viceroy of New Spain and Governor of Havana each to send without delay -two pieces of bronze artillery at the same time they had sent an order -to the contracting house in Sevilla to send other pieces that were in -that City on the first occasion and also the two hundred arms asked for, -that the Garrison may not be without the means of defense and safety. To -keep the infantry under good discipline and that the Governor<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_183" id="page_183"></a>{183}</span> place -himself in communication with the Viceroy and the Governor of Havana to -see that they send him four pieces of artillery. The Florida Governor -gave an account in this letter also, of having formed a cavalry company -and a military company enlisting in them all who were able, old men and -boys not yet of age, his own sons among them. This he did for the -greater safety of the place against the enemy. He was giving the utmost -zeal and care to his duties. In a letter of 1674 the Sergeant-Major -acting as Governor of the Province of Florida, states that a vessel had -arrived at that Port and they had received four pieces of artillery and -other ammunition from the contracting house in Sevilla, that with this -and the artillery that was to come from Havana and New Spain, these -would be sufficient for the defense of the Garrison. By a dispatch of -1674 thanks were sent the Archbishop, Viceroy, for having sent to -Florida all the supplies due that Garrison. It was sent that it might -leave on the fleet passing Vera Cruz for Spain.</p> - -<p>By another dispatch the Governor, Pablo Ita Salazar, was recommended -that he apply himself with much zeal in perfecting the fortification of -the Royal Fort being built in that City and that it be accomplished in a -manner for the best safety of the Province. By Cedula of 1675 the -Sergeant-Major Don Nicolas Ponce de Leon, in reply to a letter of his, -and attentive to an order sent the Governor of Cuba, that if the negro -slaves sent to Havana had not already been sold, he should send -immediately upon their arrival fifty of them to Florida, where they -should be put to work on the Castle under construction. The Indians<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_184" id="page_184"></a>{184}</span> who -served as peons were not strong and their people were much opposed to -their leaving the planting of corn which is the sustenance of their -families. And the Governor was ordered upon their arrival in Florida to -apply them to this work and relieve the Indians and to finish the -construction as quickly as possible.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_185" id="page_185"></a>{185}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1741-1743.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p> -<i>Conduct of the Christians worse than the heathen—Soldiers -guarded while they are cutting timber to -repair the Fort—The Castle in a tumble-down condition—The -Garrison to be maintained for the -propagation of the Holy Gospel, and to shelter the -workers of the Apostolic faith—A paper of representation -to his Majesty concerning the properties -belonging to the Treasurer, Don Francisco Menendez, -deceased, left by will to the Royal Treasury—The -pressing need of the Infantry of this Garrison; -it having no capital, the property should be -sold at public auction and proceeds go to restore -back pay of troops to alleviate suffering, hunger -and need for clothing, instead of being used for a -hospital as per the King’s desire—A letter from -Governor Manuel Montiano informs his Majesty -of fourteen English vessels anchored off the Bar -of this Port—Six Spanish galleys sent to meet -them at which the enemy retires.</i> -</p></div> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1741.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>By the dispatches which, on this occasion, I send you duplicates as well -as the original, you and your Royal and Supreme Council of the Indias -will see the condition of this Port. The continued watch and worry I -have. The continuous watch by day and night<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_186" id="page_186"></a>{186}</span> of the Infantry to repulse -the hostilities of these enemies. The heathen not being as bad as the -Christians who have risen and commit the most bloody deeds upon all -those whom they catch, carrying off Indians as well as soldiers -prisoners to the Carolinas, where they sell them into bondage. For the -execution of this they have a different set of soldiers stationed at the -terminus of all the roads leading to this Garrison. I am forced to send -out troops on foot and horse to accompany any party going out to fell -and saw timber for the much needed repairs of the ramparts, gather wood, -coal, etc. I began these repairs as soon as I took possession, otherwise -the whole thing would have been demolished and left us with no defense -whatsoever. These repairs cannot last long, for the reasons I have -already repeatedly informed you, and lastly, the great need the Royal -Troops have of rebuilding the ramparts, quarters, warehouses and roofs -that they may stay in at all. To save you such enormous expense as each -day occurs, it will be necessary to fortify the place at once, because -with the English in such close proximity as the Carolinas, this Port is -in the greatest danger of being lost, as the troops are defenseless and -needy as you have been repeatedly informed, and you have given such -stringent orders that the Viceroy should supply all that is needed for -the expulsion of these English, and for which I have done my part far as -possible, as you will see from the consultation I had with him on the -10th of April of this year, an account of which I rendered your Majesty. -Notwithstanding the risk of encountering these enemies, no occasion is -lost of going out to find what is needed and necessary for the -preservation and defense<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_187" id="page_187"></a>{187}</span> of the Port. Cutting and sawing timber for the -stables and artillery, the most important things—the soliciting of -supplies that we may not be in want as the entire Garrison and -neighborhood depend entirely upon the Royal Warehouses for their -sustenance, as I long ago informed you on the 24th of March. I am hourly -awaiting my successor, to whom I shall give all needed instruction -regarding the defense of this Port from the enemy. I have decided to -surrender as far as possible the execution of the repairs I have -mentioned that he may apply all that he gets to the service of the two -Majesties; that this Garrison may be maintained for the propagation and -extension of the Holy Gospel, as has been done by the good Catholics, -the Kings, your predecessors of a hundred and sixty years, at such -enormous expense with no other interest than to shelter with these arms -the Workers of the Apostolic faith to the greater honor and glory of -God. May He preserve your Majesty.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Francisco Córcoles y Martinez.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., December 11th, 1741.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Representation.</span></h3> - -<p class="r"> -1743.<br /> -</p> - -<p>The Officers of the Royal Treasury of this Garrison, at the most -convenient time and without prejudice to the definite appeal and -protests made in favor of the same Royal Treasury, represent to your -Highness that in view of this Post having more than seven hundred men, -re-enforcement over and above the troops of its Garrison. That with the -demise of Don Francisco Menendez Marquez, Auditor who was, of these -same<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_188" id="page_188"></a>{188}</span> Royal Coffers, your Highness has thought that the houses occupied -by him as residence, and all the balance of his property to which he -made the King his sole and only heir, should be dedicated to the use of -hospitals to serve these same troops of the infantry of this Garrison -when occasion offers, on account of the war. Before your Highness -determines to take this step, it becomes indispensable that we should -expose the fact to you that we cannot consent to have the abovementioned -houses assigned to any such uses for the following reasons:</p> - -<p>First, because in his will Don Francisco Menendez Marquez himself -declares that, not being able from the balance of his accounts to -satisfy the Royal Treasury, he understood directly that it became -compulsory for him to ease his conscience that he should name the King -his sole and only heir. From this is deduced that all property known as -that of Don Francisco Menendez is, with legitimate title, the property -of the Royal Treasury. Not having the authority to sell these without an -order from your Majesty, it is consistent that we who are his executors -and lack the Royal permit to determine what disposition to make of it -resist the intention and thought your Highness has formed of the use of -the above mentioned houses and balance of property of the aforementioned -gentleman. It seemed to us that in all fairness and justice they should -be closed out at public auction and the proceeds thereof distributed -among the Infantry of this Garrison; because this Garrison has no -capital of its own, it follows that the legitimate creditors to the -property are these same troops. The Royal Treasury is under obligation -to restore to the Infantry the back<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_189" id="page_189"></a>{189}</span> pay due them, and never better than -now, that they lack clothing and are perishing, should aid come at a -more opportune time, and it could be done with the proceeds of this -property, lessening the obligation of the Royal Treasury that amount.</p> - -<p>Second: Your Highness can have no conception of the increased suffering -occasioned by the war. The curing of the wounded soldiers and sailors -who have been in this Post for over two years, there being no capital to -apply to the indispensable expense of medical attendance for this -purpose, it is easy to understand that the situation is burdened by -heavy expenses, and to make it clearer, up to the present date no -provision has been made to cover the cost of the many works of -fortification in this Post and on the bar of Matanzas to defend them -against the continued attacks of our enemy, and for the multitude of -Indians who have attached themselves to us with so much firmness and -friendship, who forgetting us, and the word given to your Highness of -remaining neutral in the actual war between ourselves and the English, -and of the liberality of the King who orders them always to be treated -with so much kindness and affection when they come.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p>In a letter of September 15th of last year we explained to your Majesty -how fourteen English vessels had anchored off the bar of this Port, -coming prepared and perfectly sure they could disembark and take -possession. The six galleys of your Majesty met them, and -notwithstanding their continued firing they made them retire. We await -and naturally expect them to<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_190" id="page_190"></a>{190}</span> return and try to carry out their -intentions. And therefore, your Majesty’s service is as vigilant as -possible to be on the alert to prevent it. It has been a great pleasure -and satisfaction to us to inform your Majesty of the good results -obtained by the efforts of your six galleys in expelling the enemy. We -are watching closely along the coast of this Province for any other -design they may have of entering. God preserve you.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Manuel Montiano.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>El Prado, March 30th, 1743.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_191" id="page_191"></a>{191}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1770-1771.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>A letter of resolution to his Majesty in respect to a letter of -appeal made to the Governor and the Bishop of Havana asking for -patent and Holy oil to administer baptism and extreme unction to -the Catholic families taken from the Island of Minorca by the -English—These families bringing with them one Don Pedro Campos, -Doctor of Sacred Theology, as a Parish Priest, and Don Bartolome -Casanovas, of the St. Augustine order, Vicar—These same claiming -to have received their appointment from the Supreme Pontificate, -not knowing to which Bishop this jurisdiction of Florida -belonged—At the end of three years to appear in writing to the -Prelate of the Apostolic choir of that Diocese—This letter sent -secretly by a fisherman—In order that a thorough investigation may -be made, the matter is referred to his Royal Highness—Letter of -the Archbishop of Valencia concerning same—Letter of the Bishop of -Cuba to his Majesty, in which he expresses gratification over the -zeal his Highness has shown concerning this matter—Advises that -these privileges be conferred upon Dr. Pedro Campos and Pedro -Casanovas—Letter of the Bishop of Minorca giving information -concerning the exporting of these families from the Island of -Minorca by the English.</i> </p></div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_192" id="page_192"></a>{192}</span></p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter of Resolution.</span></h3> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1770.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>By order of his Majesty I sent the Knight of the Order, Fray Don Julian -de Arriaga, with papers of February 27th of this year, to the Governor -of Havana, and documents which treat especially of the appeal made to -the Bishop of that diocese, asking him for patent and Holy oil to -administer baptism and extreme unction to the Catholic families who were -taken from Minorca, to colonize the territory in Florida, belonging to -the English, so that it may be recognized and consulted in the Council -whatever may come up on this subject. The proclaimed Governor Don -Antonio Bucareli y Ursna give an account referring to the above -mentioned documents. He states that he received a letter addressed to -the Bishop of that diocese by one of the passing fish boats on its way -to the northern coast for the fisheries. That immediately upon its -receipt, he made returns of a copy of it, and its entire sentiment, -which he forwarded. From the appearance of its contents, the subject -treated, in their judgment it seemed proper to lay the whole matter -before your Majesty, including a copy of the aforementioned letter, that -you might decide what was most agreeable to your Royal pleasure. In the -already mentioned letter signed it seems by Don Pedro Campos, Doctor of -Sacred Theology, dated from Mosquito on the 20th of October of 1769, the -prelate lays before the public the fact that one year previous Mr. -Andrew Turnbull, an Englishman, had taken from the Island of Minorca -about 1300 persons to colonize Florida, for whom he was appointed -Parish<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_193" id="page_193"></a>{193}</span> Priest and Don Bartolome Casanovas, of the St. Augustine order, -Vicar of said jurisdiction. They had received their appointment from the -Supreme Pontificate, not knowing to which Bishop this jurisdiction of -Florida belonged, but it was their duty to appear by writing before the -expiration of three years to the Prelate of the Apostolic chair in that -diocese. That both of them are natives of Minorca, which Island was -temporarily subject to the King of Great Britain and spiritually to the -Bishop of Minorca. That he had studied philosophy and theology, received -all the orders, been one of the governing body and Vicar. This last -office he had held for twelve years in Minorca. Preached during several -Lents, as had also Padre Casanovas. For all these reasons he begs that -he be sent a patent of Parochial Priest and one of Vicar to Fray -Casanovas. He also asks for some of the Holy Oil used in baptism and -extreme unction. That all these be sent him by the same secret means of -the fishermen for the spiritual aid and advancement of those Catholic -people.</p> - -<p>Successively the same Knight of the Order sent another paper and -testimony to the Bishop of Cuba, Don Santiago Echevarria, saying that -the dispatch or expedient sent belonged to the Council. With the order -of February 27th referring to the solicitude felt by that Vicar and -Parish Priest for the families who had been transported from Minorca, so -that they might be united to this tribunal which could proceed to -recognize them as stated in the prepared information. In it the same -prelate, Don Julian Arriaga, of the diocese, states that at the same -time he had full knowledge of the letter of Dr. Campos, the Governor<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_194" id="page_194"></a>{194}</span> -passed a bill considering it not worthy of his consideration and not -recognizing the legitimacy of the letter of the pretendent nor his -pontifical jurisdiction. Affirming that the testimony was of little -value or belief. The simple say so of a letter. The class of foreigners -who lived among heretics, diminished their estimation of the Holy Oil, -finally that he considered it absolutely necessary to lay the whole -matter before your Majesty. Considering each clause of the letter, he -deemed that it should be answered by the minister, arranging all -according to his judgment and resolution to be made known, so that -hereafter he may know how to proceed in similar cases. The Council, in -view of the referred report, placed it before the Judge, whose original -answer is in the hands of your Royal Highness confirming the opinion it -contains and placing before your Royal consideration that the judgment -found by the Bishop of Cuba has been very prudent, that he has worked -with wise precaution, because truly the contents of Dr. Campos’ letter -are very delicate, and one should be cautious in being influenced by a -weak letter entrusted to uncertain fishermen. That at all events it -lacks the necessary antecedents required for an affair of less -importance. That the foundation should be the legitimizing of the -persons referred to by the Priest and the Fray Casanovas. The claims -with which they passed to Florida in company with the families from -Minorca and the jurisdiction they assure us to have received from the -Supreme Pontificate. Nothing of this has been sent in document form, nor -promised to be sent in such form, ignoring also whether the families -from said Island taken out by the English were Catholics, and if they<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_195" id="page_195"></a>{195}</span> -had passed into Florida as such and with the freedom of enforcing their -religion. That Catholics, permanent residents of Florida, should ask -spiritual aid of the Bishop of Cuba, is perfectly proper, because, -before the occupation of the English, Mosquito was under his -jurisdiction. Neither should sacred things be exposed to the scorn and -ridicule of heretics, nor should it be badly administered. The secret -manner in which Dr. Campos seeks this aid, so very queer, because if the -families from Minorca are Catholic and were transported as such to -Florida with the free privilege of their religion, as is seen by their -efforts in bringing with them a Parish Priest and Vicar. The English -would certainly not oppose them in publicly asking for and having all -that is required by these same Catholics for administering the -sacraments, education of the masses, and spiritual good of their souls. -All this makes it indispensable that we should have a thorough knowledge -and investigation of these affairs by other means before we can decide -on this matter with any certainty. To which is added that by the article -eleven of the Treaty of Peace adjusted on the 13th of July of the year -1713, in which was ceded to the crown of Great Britain the Island of -Minorca, (among other things) promised by his British Majesty was that -the inhabitants of the said Island should enjoy in all safety and -peacefulness all the honors and privileges of the Roman Catholic -religion, and also that for the preservation of this religion they -should take all measures which did not appear exposed to the Government -of Sevilla and laws of Great Britain. Thus it seems to the Council that -your Minister in Rome should be appointed to investigate the matter<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_196" id="page_196"></a>{196}</span> -with the greatest solicitude, because if the Catholics of the above -mentioned Island of Minorca, transported by the English in the year 1768 -(as we deduce from Dr. Campos’ letter), have made an appeal to the -Apostolic Secretary in order to carry with them their own Pastor, and if -his Holiness has named in the capacity of the Parish Priest and Vicar -the referred to Don Pedro Campos and Don Bartolome Casanovas of the St. -Augustine Order, and such jurisdiction assigned to them.</p> - -<p>Being informed as briefly and clearly as possible, extend an order to -the Captain-General of the Island of Minorca and to the Bishop of that -Diocese that they may separately inform if they know of the exportation -of the families of Minorca by the English to populate Florida. If the -declared families were Catholic, and if the Prelates lived and behaved -as priests; if they passed over here with the understanding that they -had free use of their religion, if Dr. Campos and Pedro Casanova were -elected as Parish Priest and Vicar of them. What is the character and -circumstances of these two subjects, and if on accepting they gave -notice and obtained permission of that minister and that prelate. In the -meanwhile if the steps have been taken, it is imperative that the -Governor of Havana and the Bishop of Cuba be given to understand that -the prudent steps taken by them was exactly and perfectly agreeable to -your Majesty. Their determination and your agreeing with it perfectly as -though they had anticipated your resolution on the present subject. That -without appearing in it, the Bishop should try by all means available to -investigate the manner of practising the Catholic religion<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_197" id="page_197"></a>{197}</span> by these -Minorcans in Florida. The position of Dr. Campos and Fray Casanovas who -are supposed to be Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic portion of -the settlement. Let a similar order be given the Governor so as to -advance as speedily as possible with the news, giving information of the -results of the search that your Majesty may decide on what is most -agreeable to your Royal Highness.</p> - -<p>Madrid, Sept. 27th, 1770.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter of the Archbishop of Valencia.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>My Dear Sir</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Having formed the corresponding petition, begging for an extension of -the privileges granted Don Pedro Campos and Pedro Bartolome Casanovas, I -also asked the Pope in the name of his Royal Majesty to grant these -ministers all privileges in their spiritual management, as requested by -his Majesty.</p> - -<p>Your Lordship notified me as seems quite proper the time to investigate -concerning these privileges, he being one of the supervisors at the -tribunal of the Holy Office, he immediately accomplished what was asked -by sending to his Holiness at the instigation of Monseñor Autoville, -Assessor of said Tribunal, who spoke favorably of helping them with his -influence, as he did, and you will see by the enclosed letter of -Saturday sent by Señor Zelada. He informs me that his Holiness extends -to them the privileges for a term of twenty years and inquires of me if -I have attended to the balance of the communications soliciting greater -privileges for these Ecclesiastics, enclosing for my instruction the -printed pamphlet of privileges granted<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_198" id="page_198"></a>{198}</span> the Bishop of Cuba, where he -facilitates the authentic open mandate. Seeming to me to be agreeable -and satisfactory to the King, I replied that he should ask these -privileges and notify me, as he has done, and which I send you, hoping -they will deserve your approval and the pleasure of his Majesty. I take -this occasion of placing myself at your disposal, and may God grant you -a long life is the wish of</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">The Bishop of Valencia.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Trascati, August 28th, 1771.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter of the Bishop of Cuba.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I have had the honor of receiving the Royal Cedule of your Majesty dated -in Idelfonso 16th of August, of this year, in reply to my letter of -February 19th. You condescend to enclose me a copy of what the Rev. -Bishop of Minorca has written regarding the Catholic families who were -taken from Minorca to establish themselves in the English territory of -Florida, called Mosquito, and a literal copy of the privileges granted -by the Apostolic See to the Parish Priest and Vicar of them.</p> - -<p>You order me that in the use of peculiar privileges and delegated in -consequence of the subordination under which these Presbyters declare -themselves. I should grant them the titles they ask of parochial and -assistant in the most approved form under the present state of -affairs—to furnish them with the Holy Oil as long as there should be no -reason for withholding it, and take entire care of those faithful, -governing them by means of these ministers, and taking as many -precautions<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_199" id="page_199"></a>{199}</span> as I consider proper to the preservation of the faith, -availing myself in case of need of the Governor and Captain-General of -this Island. Your Majesty advises me of the official letters addressed -by the Secretary of State to the Court of London, representing clearly -what was said by the Bishop of Minorca, and also the result of the -solicitation which by your order has aided the Rev. Archbishop of -Valencia with his Holiness, in obtaining from him an extension of the -privileges granted these Ecclesiastics extend even beyond mine—and it -is well and needed for the spiritual good of this Catholic portion. Have -the goodness to permit me to express the sweet commotion my soul has -felt at seeing the proper zeal on the part of your Majesty, and the -interest you take in extending the Kingdom of Christ over all the world. -This example must influence the Pastors, as we have the honor of -rendering homage to so great and Catholic a Monarch.</p> - -<p>As to the instructions of your Sovereign Majesty that I should -communicate your resolutions to the Marquez de la Torre, the new -Governor and Captain-General of this city and Island, I did not have to -encourage his zeal in the affair. Full of the greatest energy in the -service of God and your Majesty, he immediately fitted up a vessel -which, under the pretext of fishing along the coast of Florida, should -approach Mosquito Inlet and deliver to Dr. Pedro Campos, through safe -hands, the two titles, for himself that of Parish Priest and Vicar for -his companion, Pedro Casanovas—a delegation of various privileges I -have considered advisable for the spiritual good of that Diocese under -its dangerous constitution. A casket<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_200" id="page_200"></a>{200}</span> containing three vessels of the -Holy Oil needed, and two assistants for the divine worship, all of which -I offer up to the service of God.</p> - -<p>These documents I place at the foot of your throne. By them you will see -how I have written to these Ministers inspiring them with a spirit of -gratitude. I encourage and sustain them to carry out their good -enterprise, exacting a report under pretext of aiding them in their -spiritual emergencies. The moment I obtain them I shall send to your -Majesty all the light I obtain on the subject. I shall be on the lookout -to consult the books used by these Religious men, and aid them in all -that is needed for the reasonable administration of the sacraments and -health of their souls. Judging by the measures I have taken of their -delegation they will scarcely need the extension of the first words of -the Holy Chair. On the arrival of these, I shall take other means more -suitable to these circumstances, and in all shall try to carry out the -real intentions your Majesty has deemed proper to state to me and -nothing will be more gratifying than to ascertain them through my -fidelity to God, who I hope will preserve you for many years.</p> - -<p>Havana, December 14th, 1771.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter of the Bishop of Minorca.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>My Dear Sir</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>On date of October 27th just passed and by order of your Majesty, on the -occasion of a representation made you by common accord by the Bishop and -Governor of Havana, I was commissioned by Don Tomas Melio, predecessor -of your Majesty’s, to give any information<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_201" id="page_201"></a>{201}</span> I could regarding the -exporting of the families from the Island of Minorca by the English to -colonize Florida. If these families were Catholics and if Dr. Pedro -Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, who accompanied them, had been -elected for that purpose, their character and circumstances and if for -the acceptance of this commission they notified me and obtained my -license.</p> - -<p>It seems suitable to my ministry to give a categorical reply to what has -been asked, the impediments imposed on my jurisdiction by the Governor -of said Island when the exportation was carried into effect, with me to -the extent of opening my private letters, suspecting others might be -enclosed in them for me. This deprived me of all news regarding the -exportation, which by means of some who came from said Islands brought -me news of my Vicar-General by word of mouth, it being impossible to -write under the circumstances, that the families were all Catholics and -passed over with the free use of their religion having accompanied them -two Ecclesiastics to serve as Parochial Priests, and I am persuaded they -were the same who gave rise to the representation. During the opposition -of that Governor to the exercise of my authority I many times resorted -to carry from the Island to the Court, to men who were worthy to protect -the benignity of our Catholic religion with messages to your Ambassador -at the Court and at my instigation they were placed at your Royal feet -by the Marquez of Grimalde with whose powerful help and meditation we -finally obtained a hearing of the private Council of the King of Great -Britain which took place on last June, when a Decree was sent stating -that no<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_202" id="page_202"></a>{202}</span> state, and I have placed myself in communication with the Vicar -to whom I have written that without loss of time he informed me of all -that had occurred in the exportation, how executed, the circumstances of -the two Ecclesiastics and if they went with this permission, and all -else conducive to a satisfactory reply. This I will fulfill immediately -I receive a reply. In the meantime the exportation being undoubtedly -public and notorious, also that it was occasioned by the want and -suffering endured in that Island by many families on account of poor -crops for several consecutive years which obliged me to grant -dispensation from the eating of lactenacious food and meat on prohibited -days. Most of the families who went to Florida had come to this Island -to colonize the unhappy city of Aludia, and if I rightly understand, I -do not doubt but that some went to Cierra Morena or other places in -Spain, from the manner in which the Vicar-General communicated to me the -exportation, I doubt if the Ecclesiastics went with his permission, he -would only have allowed and tolerated it for the good of the religion -and not to irritate the Governor more by reports which, when I first -arrived on this Island, he gave me of all the Ecclesiastics. It results -that Dr. Campos was a good and laborious Priest, devoted strictly to his -ministerial duties, and had been Vicar for some years. That he was Vicar -of a village of that Island. This is confirmed by several persons of -Minorca who, in this unsettled state, are still here, and although some -of the clergy do not give such good reports, those they have given of -his conduct are not bad, but being obliged to state all that I -understood in this city regarding the exportation, I am assured by -several<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_203" id="page_203"></a>{203}</span> persons that bad news is being spread of the unhappiness in -which these families live, their disgust with the country where there is -nothing but hard labor and want, in place of the happiness and riches -they had been promised by the English, and what is worse, that they -themselves (without stating the reason) had assassinated the said -Clergyman who had accompanied them. This is all I can tell you at -present, until I have a reply for the worse from my Vicar-General of -Minorca. In the meantime I take this occasion to congratulate your -Majesty upon your new destiny and after my services praying God may -grant you long life.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Bishop of Minorca.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Palma, February 5th, 1771.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_204" id="page_204"></a>{204}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1771.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>The opinion of the Judge, after having examined the different -letters from the Bishops and those in authority connected therewith -and after making thorough investigation into this matter concerning -the granting of the patent and graces asked for by these Priests of -the Minorcan families of the English colony of Florida—The Bishop -of Cuba for the Council to Dr. Don Pedro Campos and the Rev. Father -Bartolome Casanovas, extends to these Priests the title of Parish -Priest and Vicar—Also sends a box containing three flasks of -Sacred Oil—Hopes soon to be able to send a more extended -prorogation of other powers—This grace having been solicited by -the King from the Court of Rome—Asks for a more extended report of -the number of families and condition of the congregation.</i> </p></div> - -<p>The Judge has seen a letter of the Rev. Archbishop of Valencia, Minister -of his Majesty, in the Court of Rome, dated Dec. 13th of the last year, -in which replying to another of Nov. 3rd by the Secretary of State, he -informs him of some indulgences and privileges granted by the Apostolic -See to Dr. Pedro Campos, secular priest, and to Father Bartolome -Casanovas of the St. Augustine Order, who accompanied the Catholic -families of Minorca in the year 1768<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_205" id="page_205"></a>{205}</span> selected by the English for their -colony in Florida in America. He has also seen another letter from the -Rev. Bishop of Minorca of the 5th of February last, who informs him that -by Royal Cedula of November 7th of the past year, he has been asked -regarding the manner practised in the selection of the families of -Minorca and the circumstances of said prelates; he gives all the -information he knows and can at present, promising that immediately upon -receipt of news he expects and has asked for he will forward. Lastly -that he has investigated and informed himself of the Royal order of the -1st of the present March by which these letters have passed to the -Council, that they may agree in the provisions they deem worthy and -advisable. For the better understanding of all this affair it must be -remembered that the Governor of Havana, Don Antonio Bucareli, gave an -account on the 11th of January of the referred to year, of the arrival -of another certificate of the virtues of one for Beatification, directed -to the Rev. Bishop and seemingly written by Dr. Pedro Campos who calls -himself Parish Priest of the families of Minorca who were selected by -the English for their colony of Florida; that this letter had been put -in the hands of the Diocesan Prelate; that one and the other had -notified his Majesty of the difficulties surrounding the request and -proposition of Dr. Campos, as has been demonstrated by the antecedent -documents. It is also worthy of consideration that Dr. Campos in his -letter at the same time that he states the selection and transmigration -of the Minorcans to Florida participates that he had been elected Parish -Priest of said families, and Father Casanovas, Vicar of them, which -jurisdiction they had<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_206" id="page_206"></a>{206}</span> received from the Supreme Pontificate who ignored -to which Bishop they were subject in that English colony; but placing -them under obligation to appear by writing before the expiration of -three years to the Holy See and the Diocesan Prelate that one and the -other were natives of Minorca, subject under the temporal power to Great -Britain and spiritually to the Bishop of Minorca, both having exercised -for many years the position of priests in preaching the Gospel and moral -doctrines. And for this reason they begged the Rev. Bishop of Cuba to -send them patents of Parish Priest and Vicar for Father Casanovas, as -also the Holy Oil for baptism and extreme unction, and two assistant -priests, proceeding with circumspection and secrecy and taking advantage -of the fishermen of that coast, being all the inducement required for -the help and benefit of the spiritual good of the Catholics. The Rev. -Bishop of Cuba, considering the grave importance of the matter, -refrained from replying to Dr. Campos, being ignorant of the quality and -jurisdiction of his authority, and not to expose to irreverence the -sacred matter of the Holy Oil, sending it to a Protestant Colony, and -not knowing the person nor authority he had for exercising the place of -Parish Priest, especially as the letter had not come in a legitimate -way; but by the uncertain conduct of fishermen entrusted with the secret -of an affair which did not seem to require this means, as there was -liberty of religion observed in the English Colony, and as the Minorcans -reserved the right to practise the Catholic religion.</p> - -<p>The Judge, in view of all this, adopts the idea of the Rev. Bishop of -Cuba, and approves his prudent resolution,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_207" id="page_207"></a>{207}</span> and was of the opinion that -this matter be illustrated by investigation, as to whether it was true -that this authority was granted by the Apostolic See, to the Prelates -Campos and Casanovas—and under what terms and considerations. What -subjects they were, if they had been appointed by the Diocesan of -Minorca, if they were of good habits, and if the Minorcans were -Catholics. If under these terms they had come to Florida with the view -of carrying out the necessary orders of the Prelate and Governor of -Minorca, and the Minister of your Majesty in the Court of Rome. All of -which was accomplished, this being the antecedent which gives motive to -the reply of the letters which have remained so long unanswered. The -Minister of Rome gives information that in the month of June of 1768 -were deputised as Apostolic missionaries for the English Province of -Florida, the aforementioned Dr. Campos and Father Casanovas, this last -as Vicar for the Minorcan families who asked of the Apostolic See, that -different authority should be granted these Prelates for the term of -three years, and in the meantime permission of his Holiness, according -to terms which result by a simple copy which will accompany their -letter. This Minister adds to have stated to his Holiness that if it -were agreeable to His Majesty that this authority be promulgated and -privileges granted that his only object was to please and serve the -Catholic King.</p> - -<p>The Apostolic indulgences being examined, it results that they were -reduced to six: administering the sacraments, asking permission of the -Bishop, and under the same condition the authority in all hidden cases -of granting dispensation to the poor, for contracting<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_208" id="page_208"></a>{208}</span> matrimony, to -erect churches and chapels—all these must be exercised without pay for -the term of three years, in the meantime with the approbation of the -Apostolic See. The Rev. Bishop of Minorca says: that he cannot furnish -the information asked of him until he obtains news of his Vicar-General -of Minorca, who has not been able to execute it by writing, but he -assures us that these Prelates and all the Minorcan families were -Catholics and passed to Florida carrying with them two Ecclesiastics who -might be the said Campos and Casanovas. The Judge, with reference to -all, considers that he has discovered sufficient truth to assuage the -just fears of the Rev. Bishop of Cuba, to the recourse to the Apostolic -See, by the Minorcan families or of the Prelates Campos and Casanovas -and the authority granted to these by his Holiness. The application for -help of Dr. Campos dispels all doubt which might arise from the distance -between Florida and the Island of Cuba. From all this result other -useful things, since all this authority granted Dr. Campos and Father -Casanovas is left at the disposal of the Bishop of Cuba and as this -Prelate and to all those of America so many pontifical authorities are -granted, he can very well make use of it for the spiritual government of -the little flock of Catholics residing in the English Colony and examine -the privileges granted to these Presbyters, adopting them according to -the nature and delegate of the authority of their Pastoral Office. It is -true that the secrecy asked by Dr. Campos caused some misgivings, but in -view of what it expounded by the Rev. Bishop of Minorca the mystery is -solved, as perhaps it has happened in Florida as in Minorca and Minorca -in regard to the disturbances<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_209" id="page_209"></a>{209}</span> of the Catholic religion, the English -having been wanting in their promises drawn up in their agreement. So -that, as the Vicar-General of Minorca had no expedient in his -jurisdiction, the same may have happened to Dr. Campos and Father -Casanovas who, in consequence of the determination of the Court of -London, cannot proceed in all concerning the education and spiritual -care of the Catholics.</p> - -<p>Under these considerations the Judge feels that the Rev. Bishop of Cuba -should send him a copy of all that he wishes, sharing with him the care -of the faithful of Florida, governing them by means of the -aforementioned ministers and taking as much forethought as his zeal -dictates and he considers convenient to a good government and conversion -of that Catholic portion, availing themselves of the necessary form of -Governor of Havana and Captain-General of that Island of Cuba, not only -for having been the means of which Dr. Campos availed himself, but also -that he may communicate with the Governor and Chief of Florida, and that -the Rev. Bishop of Minorca send him notice of his letter and beg him to -take charge and investigate such reports as may come up, informing -himself through the Vicar-General of Minorca and also of those Catholic -subjects who from said Island have passed to the city of Alzuvia as we -are assured in his letter. That the Commandant of Minorca be stimulated -anew to obtain the information demanded of him. And that he send -documents to the Marquez of Gremaldin to the effect that he send notice -to the Council of the church service, which by the Secretary in charge -has been made in the Courts of London at the instance of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_210" id="page_210"></a>{210}</span> clergy and -Bishop of Minorca, and of the resolution taken by the Council, provided -by the King of Great Britain. These documents being necessary, to send a -copy to the Governor and Bishop of Cuba that they may proceed securely -and provide such resources as are needed, for all of which they can free -themselves with necessary speed. Notwithstanding the Council will -remember what is most agreeable.</p> - -<p>Madrid, April 16th, 1771.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">For the Council.</span></h3> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1771.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>My Dear Sir</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I have not forgotten your Excellency’s letter of Oct. 20th of 1768, in -which you state to me your merits and occupation as also that of Father -Bartolome Casanovas of the St. Augustine Order, and you expound to me -the motives which induce you to apply to me for your title of Parish -Priest of the Catholic families of Minorcans established in Mosquito, -English territory of Florida, and that of Vicar for the other Priest. -Also asking for the Sacred Oils with which to administer baptism and -extreme unction, and for two assistant Priests of the Divine office. In -order that I might reply to your claims I considered it advisable to -submit it to the higher authority and intelligence of the King, my Lord, -and that I might be enlightened by his Sovereign order regarding all -requirements for so delicate and serious a subject. I have received all -the light on the subject I wished through a Royal Cedula of Aug. 16th of -the present year, composed of documents which legitimatize the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_211" id="page_211"></a>{211}</span> -character of your executive and that of your companion. The power and -authority invested in you by the Holy See and the professed Catholicism -of the Minorcan families to whom you both administer. Also the various -instructions all relative to my government in that Catholic Colony whose -obedience and prompt attention to the kind intentions of the King our -Sovereign, I extend to you (by means of a safe and trusty guide) the -title of Parish Priest and Vicar. A copy containing the only and -extraordinary powers of the Apostolic Chair, which I hold and which I -convey to your Excellency and by your death, sickness or other -legitimate impediment, to your companion. That the time with the -requirements expressed therein, two assistant priests of the Divine -office and a box with three flasks of sacred oil, distinguished as the -Chrisma, Catecuma, and for the sick. I hope soon to send you a more -extended prorogation of other powers, that you may make good use of them -to the benefit of that small flock, and in case of you and your -companion’s death, the Priest I should nominate. This is a grace that -the Catholic and clement heart of the King has solicited from the Court -of Rome, through the means of his Minister. It is also reserved that I -shall be promptly advised of the results of the Offices made in the -court of London, by order or representation of the Illustrious Bishop of -Minorca, and the resolutions taken by the private council of the King of -Great Britain in the month of June of the past year, with the only -desire that their people do not become discouraged in the Holy Religion -they profess, and that they owe such great blessings to the best of -Monarchs whose large soul guides all his thoughts and intentions<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_212" id="page_212"></a>{212}</span> to the -sustenance and propagation of the true Roman Faith, making it noticed -and perceived by the whole world his pious and eminent care for humanity -and his heroic and glorious zeal. Your Excellency will make it -understood by those chosen few, the gratitude and acknowledgment these -sublime demonstrations bind them to fulfill. Apply yourself to guide -them and make them patient with all love and charity. Apply yourself to -all this and count on my assistance in all that is needed to secure this -important work. That I may better form an idea of your wants and desires -to relieve them with the spiritual aid that your condition requires, it -would be well you should send me immediately an individual report of the -constitution, material and formula of your church and a list of the -families who compose your congregation. State all excesses, and anything -you deem worthy of my consideration and within my Province. These last -will always have for their object the salvation of the souls confided to -the good conscience and care of your Excellency and your companion, -whose good conduct I flatter myself leaves nothing to desire, being -perfect and complete in the discharge of his respective ministerial -duties to the honor and glory of God. These are of such interest that we -are obliged to sacrifice our best efforts, the repose and even loss of -our own lives. I remain with best wishes and always ready to conciliate -your wishes. May God guide you for many happy years.</p> - -<p>I kiss your hand and am your affectionate and sincere Chaplain,</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">The Bishop of Cuba</span>.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Señor Dr. Don Pedro Campos (absent).</p> - -<p>Rev. Father Bartolome Casanovas.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_213" id="page_213"></a>{213}</span></p> - -<p>It agrees with the original letter and its contents, which remain in the -Secretary under my charge and which I remit by order of the Bishop, my -Lord. I took this out in Havana on the 3rd day of December, 1771.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Dr. Jose de la Bandera</span>, Secretary.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_214" id="page_214"></a>{214}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1773.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Proceedings of the Council upon information obtained from his -Majesty’s Minister at the Court of Rome concerning the appeal made -by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic families established -in the English territory of Florida—The matter contained in the -different Bishops’ letters, also the letters of the Priest and -Vicar asking for patent and further privileges rehearsed—A report -of the condition of the said Minorcan families who are dissatisfied -with the lack of spiritual comforts—Have built a brick church and -are very devout—Of their desire to throw off the yoke of Great -Britain and their love for Spain—Reply of the Judge—Testimony -sent by the Bishop of Cuba.</i> </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Council.</span></h3> - -<p>Report relative to information obtained from His Majesty’s minister at -the Court of Rome in reply to the order expedited as a result of the -appeal made by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic families -established in the English territory of Florida, to the Bishop of Cuba, -asking for the Holy Oil.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Proceedings.</span></h3> - -<p>First—In Council on September 27th of last year, it was called to your -Royal attention in Council, what had been represented by the Governor of -Havana<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_215" id="page_215"></a>{215}</span> and Rev. Bishop of Cuba, concerning the appeal made to the -Bishop of Cuba by Dr. Pedro Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, the -first Parish Priest, the second Vicar of the Catholic families who were -taken from Minorca to colonize the territory of Florida, belonging to -the English, asking for the Holy Oil, with which to administer baptism. -It seemed that your Majesty’s Minister in the Court of Rome was the most -worthy person to solicit and obtain with promptness the information as -to whether the Catholics taken from the Island of Minorca by the English -in the year 1768, had made an appeal to the Holy See that they might -carry with them their own Pastors, and if his Holiness had named in the -capacity of Parish or Parochial Priest and Vicar of the referred to -people, the Presbyters Dr. Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, and -what jurisdiction had been conceded to them, giving all information with -the greatest clearness; also, that the correspondence and letter be -expedited to the Captain-General of the Island of Minorca and the Bishop -of that Diocese that they should inform separately all details they knew -of the extraction of the families of Minorca made by the English to -colonize Florida, if said families were Catholics and lived and behaved -as such. If they went over with the privilege of the free use of their -religion, and if Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas were elected Parish -Priest and Vicar of them. What was the character of these two Subjects, -and if for the acceptance of this charge they gave notice and obtained -permission from that Minister. In the meantime, while such steps are -being taken, that they should acknowledge to the Governor of Havana and -Bishop<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_216" id="page_216"></a>{216}</span> of Cuba, the receipt of their letters stating it to have been to -the Royal approval of your Majesty the determination they had agreed -upon—notifying each that your Majesty would take some action in the -matter, but that the Bishop should try to inform himself of the manner -of practising the Catholic religion by these Minorcans in Florida, and -the manner of assistance by the Parish Priest and Vicar of the Catholic -Town and that the same be forwarded to the Governor, so that one and the -other advance the information resulting therefrom. And your Majesty -having agreed in this opinion should order the corresponding Royal -Cedulas and letters agreed upon with date of October 27th and November -7th of last year.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Final Condition.</span></h3> - -<p>In this condition the Council received a letter from the Rev. Bishop of -Minorca of February 5th of this year, stating that he could not take the -required steps for obtaining information asked, as he awaited news of -his Vicar-General of Minorca, who had sent him some messages by word of -mouth, not being able to do so by writing on account of the interference -of the Governor of that Island. Notwithstanding the difficulties the -Vicar had communicated to him the fact that all the families were -Catholics who went to Florida with the free use of their religion, -carrying with them, to serve as Parish Priest and Vicar, two -Ecclesiastics, one secular and one monastic (belonging to an order), and -they might be the ones mentioned. This Prelate adding that the first was -a good and laborious Priest, applying himself strictly to his -Ministerial duties, and had been Vicar for many years on that<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_217" id="page_217"></a>{217}</span> Island. -That of the other he did not have such good reports, although those he -had were not so bad. That it was reported the English had assassinated -this Priest without stating a reason for doing so. That last June, on -account of the troubles between this Court and the Court of London, a -decree was obtained from the private Council of the King of Great -Britain that in Minorca there should be no further interference with the -Ecclesiastics; that now a more quiet state exists and things are -restored to their normal state, therefore the Rev. Bishop awaited news -of the matter from his Vicar, having asked for it last October 27th.</p> - -<p>Prior to this Fray Julian Ariaga had sent a document, dated March 1st of -the present year, written upon the resolution of your Majesty, expressed -in a letter notifying your Minister at the Court of Rome, who having -verified and accomplished the same the accompanying note, showing the -powers and privileges invested in Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas. These -documents are sent by order of his Majesty to the Council, that upon -seeing them they may agree upon the provisions most expedient. In this -letter the Minister of your Majesty in Rome states that in the month of -June of 1768 they were empowered as Apostolic Missionaries for the -English Province of Florida. The Minorcan families had petitioned the -Holy See to invest these Prelates with certain powers, which was done, -granting them these powers for a term of three years, in the meantime a -Permit of His Holiness accompanied it set forth in these terms, as shown -by the copy—if it should be agreeable to your Majesty that they make -use of these powers and privileges<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_218" id="page_218"></a>{218}</span>—that he was only too glad and -willing to serve and please so good and Catholic a King.</p> - -<p>From the above mentioned letter of indulgences, it appears that they are -six, reduced to the administering of the Parochial Sacraments, obtaining -first permission from the Bishop or his Vicar. These places are near, -not further than two days’ journey of ten leagues each day by land from -the Province of Florida, and under the same conditions these Priests are -invested with the power of absolving abroad all such hidden cases, -although it be reserved for the Holy See to give dispensation to the -poor, where they wish to contract matrimony within certain degrees of -kinship. Some of these privileges of dispensation are granted to some -Priests approved by their Bishop. They could construct churches and -chapels in the Colony under the same restrictions of getting a permit -from the Diocesan Bishop, if not absent and at too great a distance. -These privileges were to be exercised in a gracious manner for only -three years, in the meantime under permit of the Holy See. The Council -of March 4th of this year, having agreed that this expedient be -transferred to the Judge with the former proceedings. In his reply of -August 16th is the following. With regard to all that is stated he says: -that he discovers ample reasons to quiet the mind and anxieties -indicated by the Bishop of Cuba, as it is evident the Minorcan families -obtain direct permission from the Holy See granting these powers to Dr. -Campos and Padre Casanovas—leaving them, however, subordinates to the -Diocesan Bishop while he was not at too great a distance. That the -proceedings of Dr. Campos remove all doubt which might arise<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_219" id="page_219"></a>{219}</span> of the -distance of the Bishop, as this Presbyter recognizes him as his own and -proper Pastor. From this the Judge decides that the Bishop of Cuba can -grant, without any further fear, the requests of Dr. Campos; that he -should contribute to it, not alone for the consolation it would bring -those Catholic families, but also to confirm and establish his -jurisdiction, and have it under his control in all things concerning the -Faith. Under these terms occur many others which are useful, as the -privileges are granted these Ecclesiastics, but places them legally -under control of the Bishop of Cuba. And as to this Prelate, as well as -to all those in America, such ample privileges are granted, he might -well avail himself of them for the spiritual government of the flock of -Catholics residing in the English Colony. He could examine the -privileges conceded and interpret them as the new ones of his Pastoral -Office. It is true that the caution and secrecy used by Dr. Campos -caused some anxiety and suspicion, but in view of what the Rev. Bishop -of Minorca says, the mystery is discovered, supposing that the same -circumstances had arisen in Florida as in Minorca, and there had been -religious disturbances, or that the English had failed to comply with -the treaties of the capitulation. That as the Vicar-General of Minorca -was prevented from carrying on his correspondence with the Diocese of -Minorca, the same might have occurred with Dr. Campos, owing to the -proceedings at the Court of London he could have no intercourse with any -other Diocese. That aside from these considerations, which are to be -regretted, the Judge considers it well for the Bishop of Cuba to retain -a copy with all the particulars given by the<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_220" id="page_220"></a>{220}</span> Bishop of Minorca, -referring to the good standing of the Catholics who emigrated to the -English Colony, and that the high standing of Dr. Campos and Padre -Casanovas and send a literal copy of the privileges granted to them by -the Apostolic See, omitting the expression used in the summary of the -“Bula de la Cena.” But that the Bishop make use of all the privileges -granted him, and expedite the titles of Parochial Pastor and Vicar which -have been asked of him in such terms as are best suited for the present, -and send them the Holy Oils, if nothing new should arise to prevent it. -So care for the faithful of Florida and govern them by means of these -same Ministers—using all the zeal and care he considers good for -them—making use of the Governor of Havana and the Captain-General if -necessary. Not only that he was the means used by Dr. Campos for -obtaining these concessions, but that documents may be passed between -himself and the Governor of Florida, he should have the Bishop of -Minorca to acknowledge receipt of his letter, and beg him to verify the -reports and information given by the Vicar-General of Minorca of those -Catholic subjects who passed from the City of Alusia (Alcubea) as he -assures us in his letter. That the commandant of Minorca make it -obligatory that he give this information asked, and that an official -report be made of it and sent to the Marquis of Grimaldi that he in turn -may report it to the Council as his individual report of what the -secretary under his charge has done in the Court of London at the -representation of the Clergy and Bishop of Minorca and the resolution -taken by the private Council of the King of Great Britain in the month -of June of the past year,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_221" id="page_221"></a>{221}</span> as affirmed by the same Bishop. These -documents are necessary according as what may be produced or forwarded -by the Governor or Bishop of Cuba, so as to proceed with security and -remit to the Ministers of Florida the necessary resources and forward -categorical documents if found necessary. By means of these dispatches -and letters all things may be facilitated.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Note.</span></h3> - -<p>This expedient being ready for the Councils, two letters have been -received, one from the proclaimed Bishop of Minorca and the other from -the Commandant of that Island, Marques de Alos, both dated April 22nd of -the present year. The first states that in consequence of what he spoke -of in his preceding letter of February 5th, that an account of the -troubles on the Island of Minorca in trying to open war with this Court, -His Vicar-General who resides there did not dare to answer His letter of -December 14th past, regarding the various families who had passed into -Florida. That only by a note, without his signature, did he intimate -that this Priest had the title of Prelate and the power to confess and -preach. That he was a person of merit, capacity and virtue. That the -Monk who accompanied him had the license and power to preach and hear -confessions; that immediately after the publication of peace he heard -from the same Vicar, who after writing of several affairs corresponding -to his ministerial duties, He states that from his Parish alone on -account of the great suffering from failures of crops, there had gone to -Florida with others from that Island and Spain, more than three hundred -families. They were urged by insinuations<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_222" id="page_222"></a>{222}</span> from the Government who -offered them homes, with land to cultivate and hold and the free use of -their Catholic religion, adding these remarks regarding the proclaimed -Priests: Dr. Campos, who had served as Vicar and Parish Priest in the -Parish of Mercadal, had asked him for letters and testimonials to pass -over to Florida, which he granted and in them stated the good character -He bore and exemplary life He had led and good work he had done for the -Church, having served many years as Vicar and being well versed in -literature. The St. Augustine Monk who accompanied Him was Padre -Bartolome Casanovas; he found nothing wrong in His conduct; He had -preached in the Parish of Alazor and was consequently the Confessor of -men; he did not remember more. He concludes his letter stating that this -is about all He can say on the subject. The Commandant, Marques de Alos, -in His letter stated that He had not been able sooner to make the -necessary inquiries and comply with the order on account of the -differences between this Court and that of London, but that things -having quieted he has been able to ascertain that the transmigration of -these families was made by the offer of lands to cultivate and retain -with the free use of their Catholic Religion as practised by the -Minorcans of that Island, according to the treaty between both Courts. -That Dr. Campos was assistant Parish Priest of Mercadal—a Priest of -exemplary life and habits, taking with Him his credentials from the -Vicar of the Diocese in Mahon. It was supposed that the Augustine Monk -went also with permission of his Superior, but of that nothing certain -was obtained, as that portion of the Island of Minorca was under the -dominion of Great Britain,<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_223" id="page_223"></a>{223}</span> and only the Ecclesiastics recognized the -superiority of the Bishop of that Diocese—this was all he could certify -in obedience to the command received. Later a letter came from the -Bishop of Cuba, dated February 19th; on the same subject in response to -the order sent by Royal Cedula of November 7th, he says: That having -devoted himself to find out, with every precaution, he was able to -obtain the following information from one of the fishermen who has been -in the Catholic Minorcan settlement. That these families are established -in their homes, the house of Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas being the -principal one of the place. They have a church built of brick, quite -commodious and decent; that having obtained last year large and abundant -crops of corn and indigo, they loaded two vessels with indigo, but that -they are dissatisfied on account of the number of deaths occurring among -them and also the lack of spiritual comforts from this same Priest, who -had asked for the Holy Oil of the Bishop of Cuba. That most of the -Minorcan Colonists are very devout; He saw them daily praying the Rosary -and receiving communion, but all wish to throw off the yoke of Great -Britain and pass again to the dominion of your Majesty—demonstrating -with strong and lively expressions their love and conservatism for the -Crown of Spain. This I believe, from all He tells me, He saw during His -stay among them. The Bishop concludes by stating: It is all he can tell -us regarding this affair, but he has taken steps for further information -which he will forward to your Majesty when obtained. All of which I make -known to the Council that it may proceed as most convenient.</p> - -<p class="c"> -Number 87—3—27— <span style="margin-left: 10%;">Year 1773.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page_224" id="page_224"></a>{224}</span></p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Reply of the Judge.</span></h3> - -<p>The Judge being cognizant of your Majesty’s Royal Decree regarding the -consultation held by the Government on December 10th, 1772, at which -time said Tribunal recalling the proceedings and last state of the -expedient of the Minorcan families who passed over to Florida, with the -free use of their Catholic religion, he brings to the consideration of -your Majesty, among other things, that they implore of the Apostolic See -the grace and power for the actual missionaries of the Commission or -Bull from the Vatican, that they may administer the Sacrament of -confirmation to these faithful ones, while the Bishop of Cuba does not -dare concede these powers to them, on account of the natives and his -peculiar Episcopal dignity. That your Royal person deign to confer with -the Council in the following terms. As the Judge has decided, it seems -proper that my Minister in Rome should supplicate the Vatican for a -Bull, granting power to these missionaries, and have it sent by the -reserved way for their direction. In obedience to this sovereign -resolution, and to accomplish it in the spirit intended, the Judge has -had present the origin of this affair and the motive which actuated the -sentiment of the Council to the referred consultation of December 10th, -and with reference to one and the other He has found the minutes which -are rubricated by His hand, and accompany this reply. The proclaimed -minutes comprehend a general idea of the manner and style in which the -Minister of this Court in Rome should present the supplication and urge -the granting thereof in the order and regularity with which these -affairs are conducted in the Offices and Tribunals of<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_225" id="page_225"></a>{225}</span> Rome. The Judge -has not seen proper to state the form of these Bulls, leaving that to -the arbitration of your Majesty’s Minister, that time may not be lost -when the opportunity presents itself. The Judge feels that if the -Council finds nothing to correct in the minutes they should be sent by -the “via reservada” as arranged by the Royal Decree already mentioned, -that your Majesty may give it the direction which corresponds and is of -your Royal pleasure.</p> - -<p>Madrid, Aug. 21st, 1773.</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Testimony Sent by the Bishop of Cuba.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>With regard to the Royal Cedula of the present January 3rd in which your -Royal Highness advises me to assist, care for, and aid the Catholic -Minorcan families established in the English Territory of Florida, in -accord with the Governor of the Post, I have given the interlocutory -decree comprehended in the testimony which I remit to your Majesty for -your sovereign approval.</p> - -<p>May God preserve your Majesty for many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Santiago Jose</span>, Bishop of Cuba.<br /> -</p> - -<p>Havana, June 30th, 1773.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_226" id="page_226"></a>{226}</span></p> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2> - -<p class="r"> -A. D. 1773-1786.<br /> -</p> - -<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Letter from the King to the Bishop of Cuba concerning the petition -soliciting an extension of time and the privileges conceded to Dr. -Pedro Campos and Padre Bartolome Casanovas, Parochial Priest and -Vicar of Catholic families of Minorca in Florida—Enclosing an open -mandate of his Holiness enlarging and extending the time for twenty -years, Madrid, 1773—A copy of a letter and statement sent in by -Lieutenant of Hibernians, Don Nicholas Grenier, in regard to the -importance of the St. Johns and St. Marys river Provinces, stating -the need to his Majesty of vessels armed to impress and control -these Provinces which are rich in timber, turpentine, pitch and -tar—Considers it detrimental to Spanish interests for Americans to -introduce any commerce in those Provinces—Letter for the -Captain-General of Florida to the Governor of the post of St. -Augustine concerning the great necessity of further protecting the -Spanish interests along the St. Marys and St. Johns -rivers—Tranquility of the country jeopardized by outlaws—Some -have been arrested and paid the penalty with their lives—Matter -referred to the Governor, 1774.</i> </p></div> - -<h3><span class="smcap">The King to the Rev. Father in Christ, Bishop of the Holy Church, -Cathedral of Santiago de Cuba.</span></h3> - -<p>In a letter of August 29th, 1771, I am informed by Don Lamas Acpuro, -Archbishop, who was of Valencia<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_227" id="page_227"></a>{227}</span> and my Minister to the Court of Rome, -that in virtue of a warning from the Marquez of Grimalde in a letter of -July 23rd, he had formed the corresponding petition soliciting an -extension of time of the privileges conceded to Dr. Pedro Campos and -Padre Bartolome Casanovas, Parochial Priest and Vicar of the Catholic -families of Minorca, who went to establish themselves in the English -territory of Florida, asking also that his Holiness accord to these -Ecclesiastics and their successors the other graces and privileges -needed to administer to the spiritual nourishment of their flocks—and -having deemed it desirable to transmit them through Monseñor Zelada of -whom they had also availed themselves to investigate the truth of these -privileges, being one of the Prelates who served in the Tribunal of the -Holy Office. He immediately complied with the petition in consequence of -having sent it to his Holiness at the instigation of Monseñor Antonelli, -assistant of the same Tribunal, who spoke to his Holiness in audience, -using his favorable influence with the result shown in his letter to -Monseñor Zelada of August 24th, informing him that his Holiness extended -these privileges to twenty years—asking if he had complied with the -balance of the communication for greater privileges and followed the -instructions mentioned in the open mandate. He replied asking if he -would pass on to solicit in the practical way which was proper, and -hoping it would deserve my approbation. Having seen the referred to -document with my Council of the Indias, represented by Marquis de la -Torre, Governor and Captain-General of that Island, by letter dated -December 4th, 1771, concerning what you had done in consequence<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_228" id="page_228"></a>{228}</span> of the -warning given you in the affair of the aforementioned families, -explained by my Judge, and consulted me regarding it about the last of -December past. I have resolved (among other things) to send the -aforementioned open Mandate which has been obtained from his Holiness to -certify to you the enlargement and extension of time granted the -aforesaid Dr. Campos and Padre Casanovas and charging you (as I do) to -use all means that are proper for your Pastoral Ministry and those of -his Holiness, it has latterly been conceded you—having present by -Chapter 28 of the Mandate, you can communicate it to all the Priests -whom it may effect, and as the notice given you by the referred to Royal -Cedula of August 16th, 1771, you will attend to and aid spiritually all -the Catholics of Florida, this being my will.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">The King.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Madrid, August 4th, 1773.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>Excellent Sire</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>I enclose you a copy of a letter and statement which by my order was -sent in by Lieutenant of Hibernians Don Nicholas Grenier, upon his -return from the River St. Mary’s where since my arrival I have placed -him rather as a Commissioned than a detached Officer, as I have before -notified your Majesty, because it has seemed to me that is the most -important place in this Province as no doubt it will be in the future, -on account of its fine and accessible Bar, the abundance of magnificent -timber, the thorough knowledge the English have of the river, the -scarcity of this nation for building material would be a stimulus to the -Bahamas as well as to Satavento and Barlovento, that in future<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_229" id="page_229"></a>{229}</span> they -should be supplied from them. In a previous report I stated to your -Majesty the necessity I felt for two vessels for said river and the St. -John’s, but today I consider it my duty to make known to your Majesty -the great need we have of vessels, and would ask that you send a -Man-of-war with some schooners, launches and boats around as reserve -guards, not only for the St. Mary’s, but the St. John’s also, where the -Bar, although not as many feet deep as the St. Mary’s, is better and its -waters are navigable for larger vessels thirty leagues up the river, and -its banks abound in magnificent timber, especially the pine, from which -the English have taken many millions of barrels of turpentine, pitch and -tar. I also consider it important to have the armed vessels to secure -the tranquility of this Country and put a restraint upon the many -disturbers of peace who not knowing where to go and wishing to remain in -the Province refused to be subjected to Government or laws of any kind. -It is certain that in such cases a few armed vessels would make more -impression than two regiments since the swamps and woods make it almost -impossible for them to operate. The twenty-five Dragoons I now have are -not sufficient to maintain my orders with the proper authority, -therefore I fear to issue orders not to compromise the dignity of this -Government. My only resource and hope is that your Majesty will place me -in a position where, when occasion demands, I can act with the proper -spirit and decorum. God preserve you for many years.</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, November 12th, 1784.<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_230" id="page_230"></a>{230}</span></p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Copy of Letter of Commandant of Detached Body of Troops on the St. -Mary’s River to the Governor of Florida.</span></h3> - -<p class="nind"> -<i>My Dear Sir</i>:<br /> -</p> - -<p>Acting upon the order imposed upon me by His Majesty, when I presented -myself for resignation of the commission under my charge on the river -St. Mary’s. I enclose adjusted a report stating as far as my ability -allows all that I have observed and consider worthy of your notice. God -preserve you many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Nicolas Grenier.</span><br /> -</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Statement.</span></h3> - -<p>The Bar of St. Mary’s, so called, although its true name is Bar of -Amelia, is considered one of the best and least dangerous of the America -Septentrional. Vessels of 500 tons can enter. On either side are -Islands. The one on the right is called Cumberland, belonging to the -Americans; it is sparsely inhabited, exceedingly fertile in timber, as -American vessels come to cut it. The one on the left is called Amelia, -its land is considered very fertile, producing pine, cedar and oak in -abundance. Its inhabitants number some twenty families; these people -belong as much to one Island as the other, being variable and erratic in -their habits. The distance between Amelia and Cumberland, which forms -the channel where all vessels going up the St. Mary’s are obliged to -pass, is more or less—miles. For this reason a Fort or Castle at the -northern extremity of Amelia would be of the greatest advantage. The -channel formed by these Islands is at the mouth of the river. In front -of these Islands is a third one called Tiger, entirely depopulated, as -it is sterile, full of swamps and lakes so that<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_231" id="page_231"></a>{231}</span> no advantage can be -derived from it. From the anchoring grounds of Amelia to the entrance of -St. Mary’s river is a distance of one and a half miles and the River is -navigable for forty miles. At the mouth of said River there is a place -called by the English New Town or Princetown which was selected for -building a City, but the work was never carried out. The number of -outlaws between the towns of St. John’s and St. Mary’s is about sixty -families. Among them some might be useful to our Nation, but the others -the sooner we drive them out of the Province the better, as they are men -who have neither God nor law, and men who are capable of the greatest -atrocities. There is another River further in where vessels can navigate -for several miles, but it requires an experienced pilot, on account of -the numerous sand banks and small streams and the most experienced are -frequently deceived. There are four or five other small Islands. The -Talbot, St. George, Doctor and the Pierce, all these Islands, although -in themselves small, are of much value for their beautiful pines, cedars -and oaks. I consider it detrimental to our interests that the Americans -introduce any commerce in this Province, and at the same time I believe -the best way to prevent it would be to establish a fleet. These Islands -produce timber to build the vessels.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Nicolas Grenier.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>St. Augustine, Fla., Nov. 10th, 1784.</p> - -<p class="r"> -1786.<br /> -</p> - -<h3><span class="smcap">Letter for the Captain-General of Florida to the Governor of the Post of -St. Augustine.</span></h3> - -<p>Don Vicente Manuel de Cespedes gave an account in three letters directed -to your Excellency that Don<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_232" id="page_232"></a>{232}</span> Nicolas Grenier, who commanded the detached -company on the River St. Mary’s, stated the urgency and necessity of -protecting that post for the advantages which would accrue from it to -the Royal service, and tranquility of the Country. The inhabitants have -openly declared against us, but conceal themselves in wilderness on the -banks of the St. John’s as far as St. Mary’s controlling that Province. -He warned the English Governor Don Patrick Louin to prosecute the -perfidity of such men, if he would secure a peaceful Government. The -opinion he had formed of them was afterwards confirmed by the frequent -thefts and deprivation, it could not be remedied for the want of aid. -Under such circumstances I judge it better to wait and allow them to -leave and then vigorously oppose their re-entering the Province. At -present, the beginning of the year 1785, we find ourselves free from -many of the principal leaders of them, who went over to Pensacola and -other English settlements and to the United States, where some have paid -the penalty of their misdeeds with their lives. The Señor Louin seemed -to think the time had arrived when they should be prosecuted, and so he -sent to arrest one of the outlaws, Daniel Mc——, in the name of Great -Britain. Candido Salteador and Guillermo Cunningham are even worse than -the others, being constant receivers of stolen goods. He afterwards gave -them their liberty under bond that they should leave the Province with -the tide, using the launch San Pedro to convey them, he made them take -oath never to re-enter the Province nor surrounding country. We are to -consult with Providence as to what steps must be taken with Cunningham’s -wife and children. The reports having<span class="pagenum"><a name="page_233" id="page_233"></a>{233}</span> been examined by the Council of -Indians, they have decided to take no steps at present, the King -agreeing to the proposition, and his Majesty commands me to return your -Excellency the above referred reports and testimonials, that as -Captain-General of the Province of St. Augustine, is to proceed in the -case, as your Excellency, under the circumstances, should determine in -things of weight as well as in minor affairs, as behooves a Governor of -Florida. Render a just account of the results, and of the Royal Order. I -warn your Excellency that you fulfill it.</p> - -<p>God preserve you for many years.</p> - -<p class="r"> -<span class="smcap">Señor.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>Madrid, December 5th, 1786.</p> - -<div class="errata"> -<p><a name="transcrib" id="transcrib"></a></p> - -<p class="cb">Typographical errors corrected by the etext transcriber:</p> - -<p>Jaun=> Juan {multiple times}</p> - -<p>Jaun Cebadillo=> Juan Cebadilla</p> - -<p>Juan Cebadillo=> Juan Cebadilla</p> - -<p>take Jaques de Soria=> -take Jacques de Soria {pg 7}</p> - -<p>Fernando Mirando=> -Fernando Miranda {pg 27}</p> - -<p>Notary Public Juan Ximanes=> -Notary Public Juan Ximenes {pg viii}</p> - -<p>Fray Blas DeMontes=> -Fray Blas De Montes {pg viii}</p> - -<p>day of the Anethema=> -day of the Anathema {pg 93}</p> - -<p>Don Diego de Rolallado=> -Don Diego de Rebolledo {pg 98}</p> - -<p>Diego Robelledo=> -Diego Rebolledo {pg x, 96, 105}</p> - -<p>retard -the convertion=> -retard -the conversion {pg x}</p> - -<p>Alonzo Aranqui y Cartez=> -Alonzo Aranqui y Cortez {pg x}</p> - -<p>Report of Fernando Mirando, agent to the King=> -Report of Fernando Miranda, agent to the King {pg vii}</p> - -<p>Notary Public Juan Ximanes=> -Notary Public Juan Ximenes {pg viii}</p> - -<p>Juan Ximanes, a Notary -Public and secretary=> -Juan Ximenes, a Notary -Public and secretary {pg 34}</p> - -<p>Nothwithstanding all the above=> -Notwithstanding all the above {pg 36}</p> - -<p>he saw what sucess=> -he saw what success {pg 38}</p> - -<p>go to the Monastary=> -go to the Monastery {pg 38}</p> - -<p>they proceed to -feret=> -they proceed to -ferret {pg 78}</p> - -<p>three hudred=> -three hundred {pg 89}</p> - -<p>Senor => -Señor {x10}</p> - -<p>Monsenor=> -Monseñor {x4 }</p> - -<p>such exhorbitant=> -such exorbitant {pg 100}</p> - -<p>large quanitity=> -large quantity {pg 100}</p> - -<p>Francisco De La Guerre y Vega concerning=> -Francisco De La Guerra y Vega concerning {pg xi}</p> - -<p>Francisco Guerray -Vega reports=> -Francisco Guerra y -Vega reports {pg 107}</p> - -<p>Jaun Marquez Cabera, Governor and Captain-General of -Florida=> -Juan Marquez Cabrera, Governor and Captain-General of -Florida {pg xii}</p> - -<p>The King reprimands Don Diego -Quiraga=> -The King reprimands Don Diego -Quiroga {pg xii}</p> - -<p>Don-Diego -Quiroba y Losada=> -Don Diego -Quiroga y Losada {pg xii}</p> - -<p>Augustine by Governor Don Diego Guiroga y Losada=> -Augustine by Governor Don Diego Quiroga y Losada {pg xii, xiii}</p> - -<p>His illtreatment of a Captain=> -His ill treatment of a Captain {pg xiii}</p> - -<p>Francisco Carcoles y Martinez=> -Francisco Córcoles y Martinez {pg xiii}</p> - -<p>Francisco Carcales y Martinez=> -Francisco Córcoles y Martinez {pg xiv}</p> - -<p>Appalachicola=> -Apalachicola {pg xiii. 97, 164}</p> - -<p>Corcoles=> -Córcoles {x4}</p> - -<p>so they many not vex the natives=> -so they may not vex the natives {pg 5}</p> - -<p>them a canonade and=> -them a cannonade and {pg 5}</p> - -<p>the keys -of Canavarel=> -the keys -of Canaveral {pg 23}</p> - -<p>Diego Fernandez de -Guinones, in Havana=> -Diego Fernandez de -Quinones, in Havana {pg 31}</p> - -<p>Having been imformed=> -Having been informed {pg 102}</p> - -<p>which to accummulate=> -which to accumulate {pg 126}</p> - -<p>ocupying a passage=> -occupying a passage {pg 130}</p> - -<p>send me reenforcements=> -send me re-enforcements {pg 145}</p> - -<p>Diego Guiroba y Losada=> -Diego Quiroba y Losada {pg 151}</p> - -<p>He proposed the -the=> -He proposed -the {pg 153}</p> - -<p>Antonio Bienavidos=> -Antonio Bienavides {pg 160, 170, 171, 173}</p> - -<p>Antonio Bienavides=> -Antonio Benavides {pg 164, 173}</p> - -<p>Governor of St. Augutine=> -Governor of St. Augustine {pg 177}</p> - -<p>they were drillng=> -they were drilling {pg 179}</p> - -<p>they are cuttng=> -they are cutting {pg 185}</p> - -<p>available to investige=> -available to investigate {pg 196}</p> - -<p>Fray Casanova=> -Fray Casanovas {pg 194, }</p> - -<p>Father Bartolome Casanova=> -Father Bartolome Casanovas {pg 204, 205, 212}</p> - -<p>Fray Casanova=> -Fray Casanovas {pg 193, 194, }</p> - -<p>Don Bartolome Casanova=> -Don Bartolome Casanovas {pg 196, 197}</p> - -<p>Father Casanova=> -Father Casanovas {pg 206, 207, 208}</p> - -<p>From all this results=> -From all this result {pg 208}</p> - -<p>St. Marys River to the Governor=> -St. Mary's River to the Governor {pg 230}</p> - -<p>the America Septentional=> -the America Septentrional {pg 230}</p> -</div> - -<hr class="full" /> - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The unwritten history of old St. -Augustine, by Various - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE UNWRITTEN HISTORY *** - -***** This file should be named 54804-h.htm or 54804-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/4/8/0/54804/ - -Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images available at The Internet Archive) - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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