Page:Vol 2 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/265

Rh of vast rent-rolls, and the appropriation of immense treasures belonging partly to the king, partly to members of the expedition; also the causes for the death of Garay and Olid. The three months of residencia passed, Ponce should send in his report and opinion. If Cortés proved disloyal he should be given a letter of recall from the king, who therein expressed a wish to consult him. If this was disregarded he should be forcibly embarked. In case the charges proved to be false, on the other hand, he should be given the commission of adelantado, with the title of Don, and further honors would follow, according to the royal letter addressed to Cortés.

Whether the charges against Cortés were false or not, the management and demeanor of the royal officials should be investigated. A report should be prepared on the condition, features, and resources of the country, particularly the mines, with suggestions for needed measures and reforms. Alloyed gold was