In my opinion, and that of many, they are lords in the temporal and spiritual affairs of the Indians, both men and women, and even of the Spaniards.

There is no one who can oppose or who does oppose them, for there is no one from whom to obtain redress, not only in such things, but in regard to the complaints of Indians.

For the provincials and superiors have before their eyes the end of their offices, and the necessity of their returning to be inferiors.

Consequently, so long as your Majesty furnishes no remedy--either by your order that some superior should be sent who would not have to remain here afterward without acting as superior; or by giving authority to the bishops of those districts over the ministers of the missions--it must continue forever as hitherto.

Well might Maestro Don Fray Diego de Guevara tell the little rigor that the provincial of St.Francis displayed toward certain friars who lost respect for him--among whom was one who went for the bishop with a sword and dagger, as if the right of each one was to lie in such armor.