Besides, my duty was to apply first to the chief authority of my province." His Excellency nodded with a satisfied air and went on in an even more familiar tone: "In regard to the trouble you're had with Padre Damaso, don't hold any fear or rancor, for they won't touch a hair of your head while I govern the islands.

As for the excommunication, I'll speak to the Archbishop, since it is necessary for us to adjust ourselves to circumstances.

Here we can't laugh at such things in public as we can in the Peninsula and in enlightened Europe.

Nevertheless, be more prudent in the future.

You have placed yourself in opposition to the religious orders, who must be respected on account of their influence and their wealth.