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660 the city; and the lowlands of the Huehuetoca, distant about ten leagues, were chosen as the most suitable place into which to carry the water.

In the midst of the viceroy's efforts at drainage, orders arrived from the court at Madrid relieving him of his office, pursuant to his repeated requests, during the past four years, on the plea of ill health, and transferring him to Peru with the same rank and powers. He surrendered the government to his successor October 4, 1580.

Suggestions had been made between 1570 and 1580 to Philip and his council, probably by command, for the better government of the Indies. It was urged that viceroys should hold office no longer than twelve years, and oidores, alcaldes de corte, and other judicial officers, as well as the chief treasury officials, only six; and that all, without exception, should have their official conduct strictly investigated at the end of their respective terms. No more corregidores or lieutenants of such officers should be appointed, but in place of them twelve alcaldes mayores, to reside in the chief cities, and yearly visit the towns in their respective districts, without ostentation and without laying burdens on the inhabitants.