The Marquis, however, could perceive that the execution of the treaty was not altogether an easy matter; and he repaired to _Castilhos Grande_, in order to confer with Gomes Freyre, sending, at the same time, Altamirano to the “Reductions,” in order that his authority might be more readily available. When that Father had reached the “Reduction” of _Yapayu_, he found that the spirit of resistance had already displayed itself. There was, it appeared, a point at which even these _Guaranís_, brought up as they had been from generation to generation in implicit obedience, could turn; and when a community is in a state of smothered discontent there is never wanting a person to urge them on to deeds. Such a person now appeared in this “Reduction” in the person of a traveller recently arrived from _Brazil_, and who pointed out to the _Guaranís_ that they were being sacrificed not by the Portuguese but by the Spaniards. The discontent now assumed a more solid form, the magistrates being deposed, and persons elected in their stead who were pledged to defend the people’s rights. [Sidenote: 1752.] As might be supposed, this news occasioned alarm at _S. Miguel_, where preparations had been made for the emigration, and whence the first division of four hundred families had actually set out. The first emigrants were unfortunately met by a succession of heavy rains; and the people, declaring that if they went farther they should all perish, refused to proceed; in which resolution they were strengthened by the arrival of a messenger stating that their fellow-settlers now declined to quit their birthplace. Thereupon they returned immediately; when their insurrection assumed a more aggressive form, two of their office-bearers narrowly escaping with their lives, whilst the Indian servant of one was slain.