363
Establislm,ent of Missions in East Texas, 1689-1693
ticularly his discovery of a valuable mine, had won for him the favor of the king, who recommended him to the good graces of the viceroy. 36 The same day on which he was appointed governor, he was given detailed instructions for the expedition which was asked to set out as soon as practicable. Briefly, the main purposes were: The founding of eight (seven) missions among the Tejas and the neighboring tribes, the exploration cf the country and its rivers, and the thorough investigation of the rumors of foreign settlements on the coast and the country of the Tejas. He should find a new route to the established mission on the Neches, abandoning the indirect and tortuous course by way of Espiritu Santo. He was instructed to keep a careful diary, noting and naming all new rivers, observing the character of the natives, and describing the products of the country. With regard to the Tejas, he was advised to continue the policy of courting their friendship and to give no occasion for the alienation of their good will. Before entering any of their pueblos, he must obtain their consent, and their wishes were to be observed in choosing the sites for the proposed missions. In the case of the Cadodachos the same conciliatory policy should be carefully observed. He was plainly given to understand that he was merely the leader of the military escort that was requested to accompany the missionaries under the direction of Father Massanet, who was to have full charge of all the supplies for the contemplated missions and without whose approval no action was to be taken. In other words, he was given control only over the soldiers and his authority was subordinated in all matters of policy to th!! religious, particularly their leader, Father Massanet. His chief duties were to explore the country of the Tejas and the surrounding territory, seeking the large river which was said to run through the lands of the! Cadodachos and the other large stream which was supposed to be found not far from the ranclier1a of the Tejas. In all his explora- tions, he was told to inquire diligently for information concerning the activity or presence of the French or any other foreigners, and to learn · whether they had any settlement in the country. Any intruders found in the region explored should be taken prisoners. In order to facilitate the careful reconnoissance of the country, a maritime expedition was arranged at the same time to go to Espiritu Santo Bay, which was to act in cooperation with the land forces. Upon the completion of the exploration and the establishment of the missions,
36 Teran to the King, January 30, 1691, A . G. I., Audiencia de Alexico, 61-6-21 (Dunn Transcripts, 1691-1693).
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