Page:Vol 2 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/729

Rh day, and meanwhile to send them preachers every lent season. Pursuant to a royal authorization of 1579, and a request of the governor of Manila, the provincial founded his order in the Philippine Islands in 1585, with the following members; Hernan Suarez, superior; fathers Raimundo Prat and Francisco Almerico; Gaspar Gomez, temporary coadjutor.

The affairs of the society at the end of the century were in the most flourishing condition. Its members were held in high esteem by all classes, and by no one more so than the viceroy, who not only placed his three sons in their charge, but often took their advice on matters concerning religion and government.

We have noticed the twofold object of the Jusuits in coming to New Spain, education and conversion. Another order was meanwhile established, devoted wholly to charity. The order was named La Caridad y San Hipólito. The patriarch and founder, Bernardino Álvarez, came to Mexico at the age of twenty years as a private soldier, served some time, and retired. He became a gambler and a leader in many wicked adventures, and finally had to make his escape to Peru, again as a common soldier. Having made a fortune in that country he returned to Mexico. His mother's advice caused him to reflect upon his past life, and he experienced a change of heart. From that time he devoted all his energies to charitable purposes.