_ 151 _ am, and how far it is from my nature to bear insults, and that I often have even to ask pardon from those who convey them. I would beg a single favour of Your Lordship, and all the rest you can do me if you wish, and if it seems to you in His Highness’s interest. I cannot bear it when every time that I order the factor to pay a Lascar what is due to him in this fortress, he to is me that there is no money. I have no answer to this but silence because I cannot keep account of one hundred thousand cruzados, if the customs house brings it in. If Your Lordship wishes me to defend this fortress against the Turks, and this kingdom against its enemies, you must give me more powers than I have. Captains who were here in the past were not in the same position in the fortress as I am, but were more like kings and governors of the country, in their ups and downs. Not only does Your Lordship give power to the Moors and I cannot reach an understanding with them, but even the writs you send say that I am to carry out building or some other work in His Highness’s service if the factor and the officials approve. I know that Your Lordship grants me much favour by not wanting me to concern myself with anything, for my
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