The audiencia was required to see that the appointees designated by the governor duly complied with the requirements of residencia; likewise that they were properly installed in office, and that they did not serve in offices for which they had neither authority nor qualifications. [400] Notwithstanding the variety and the conflicting character of the laws bearing on matters of appointment, a careful consideration of law and practice leads to the conclusion that the governor, as chief executive, had the power of making appointments, but in the execution of this duty he was ordered to consult the audiencia, although, strictly speaking, he was not obliged to follow its advice. If there were good reasons for not appointing an official recommended by the governor, the oidores could send representations to the Council of the Indies, setting forth their objections, and the Council might confirm or nullify the appointment, as it chose. The audiencia could make appointments if it were in temporary charge of the government. The authority which the audiencia exercised in regard to appointments varied according to circumstances. If the governor were new at his post, weak or indulgent, the audiencia exercised more extensive authority than was conceded by the laws. If the governor were experienced, efficient, and a man of strong personality and dominating character, the tribunal exercised less power in regard to appointments, and, in fact, in all other matters pertaining to government. Closely related to the appointing power was the duty which the governor had of submitting annually to the court a list of all the officials of the colony, with comments on the character of their services, and with recommendations for promotion or dismissal from office. [401] The oidores were included in these reports. [402] It was also the function of the governor to report on the administration of justice. [403] The governor was instructed to inform the court in case the oidores engaged in forbidden commercial ventures, either directly, through the agency of their wives, or through other intermediaries. [404] He was authorized, moreover, to investigate and report on the public and private conduct of the magistrates and of their wives as well [405] and to exert himself to see that their actions were at all times in consonance with the dignity of their rank and positions and of such a character as would reflect credit on the royal name and entitle them to the respect of the residents of the colony. The confidential reports of the governor to the king might include all of these matters, and many others too numerous to mention. On the other hand, the audiencia, as a body, was authorized to direct the attention of the Council to any irregularities of which the governor might be guilty, and thus a system of checks and balances was maintained. [406] However, the oidores were forbidden to make charges individually. This injunction