Certain it is that the last six remittances which the
viceroy has made to these islands have all been smaller than those
made by the other viceroys. I confess that the times have become
hard; but one can but ill sustain a number of men, or take care of
the expenses of war, on less than what their pay and salaries amount
to. The accounts for the five years which were asked are enclosed,
and have been made out with all clearness. For the last three, it
will be seen how much smaller have been the receipts and expenses
than those of my predecessors. [_In the margin:_ "Seen."]
Neither have the men come who are needed; for the past year came
eighty-odd soldiers, and this year ninety. That is but a scant
number for the many men who die here, for our forces are steadily
diminishing. I can do no more, for money has not been coined here,
nor do the people multiply. I ask, Sire, for what is needed to fulfil
my obligations. The viceroy does not send the orders which are given
him from there; they can not be so illiberal. As this is a case of
need, I give notice of it, in order that blame may not be cast on me
at any time.
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