74. In the offices and places of gain belonging to the country, the
men employed should be selected with regard to merit and skill, and
for no other reason. Especially if they are incapable, or excluded
by royal decrees, should they be refused employment.

75. The same with regard to the provision for repartimientos and
encomiendas of the Indians.

76. The people of the country wish to be maintained in peace and
justice. They desire the punishment of all crimes, but object, on
account of the newness of the country, to penalties which affect
property, in the case of insignificant offenses.

77. It is requisite that, in the treatment of their persons,
and especially of those who merit consideration, those who are in
authority show the people respect, courtesy, and affability.

78. Those in authority must avoid having a great following of servants
and retainers; and those that they do have they must pay and recompense
from their own pockets, and must not bestow on them the offices or
profits of the country. This is a very unjust proceeding, as there is
not sufficient even for those who serve, because of the small extent
of this country.

79. Those in authority must refuse to allow such servants and friends
to trade and make contracts, and to buy goods at wholesale and to
embark in commercial enterprises; because they exercise much coercion
and inflict many wrongs--spreading the report that it is on behalf
of those in authority. No one, therefore, dares to institute a suit