Page:Mexico in 1827 Vol 1.djvu/379

Rh system be radically changed, the new institutions can never take a firm root.

Nothing can be more mistaken, in my opinion, than this idea, or less suited to the habits, and feelings of the people. It is by pruning, and weeding, and not by destroying both root and branch, that salutary reforms may be effected. For these, as I have already stated, there is ample room; but, if the changes proposed, do not exceed the establishment of a necessary degree of independence in the Mexican Church,—the equalization (or more equal distribution) of its revenues, and the diminution of those excessive Church, or Surplice fees, now exacted by the Parochical Clergy;—Mexican clergymen may be found, (and these, men of the highest respectability,) not only capable of directing, but desirous to introduce them, even at the expense of individual sacrifices, the necessity of which they acknowledge.

The vacancy of the principal Bishoprics affords an opening, which will probably be taken advantage of; and should the overgrown revenues of some of the Dioceses be cut down, and appropriated to the support of the poorer Parochial Clergy, I am inclined to think that the measure, in lieu of being opposed, would meet with very general approbation. At all events, a general coalition against it, (which might be dangerous) is not to be apprehended.

The Clergy are divided amongst themselves: besides the great leading distinction of Old Spaniards and Natives, the interests of the Parochial Clergy