Page:Vol 2 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/159

Rh virtually acquitted him, though scandal-mongers continued to hint that Cortés was not above accomplishing the death he so desired.

In his ordinances Cortés further provided for the appointment of local authorities, to consist at first of two alcaldes, four regidores, a procurador, and a notary, with a person appointed to collect the revenue. The municipality must meet once or twice a week in the town-hall, or its temporary substitute, to discuss the affairs of the town. The alguacil mayor had a vote in this council, which could not be held without the presence of the lieutenant or deputy governor. The municipal officers were all appointed annually by Cortés, who selected those recommended to his friendship or interest. This absolutism caused many complaints from disappointed office-seekers, and resulted in a royal decree which placed with the people the nomination of three candidates for each office of regidor, the governor jointly with two royal officials appointing one of them. The regidores were besides increased to six, and some were appointed by the king in perpetuity. Cortés objected to this