Withholding the charge of the Indias to augment from the right of succession which his uncle left established, and a fishery in said Province which the said Don Martin should select without any remuneration for the many expenses he incurred in the conquest, Don Martin Menendez having died without issue, or heir to his estate, the petitioner asked they expedite the title of Governor upon him, as it was expedient. Although endeavors have been made in the archives of Simancas to find these papers, they have not been found, and it is said they were burned in the fire which occurred in these archives. Imploring your Majesty’s order that the pre-eminence and prerogative be reserved and observed as with the title of all the other courts and marquises of Castile, and also in consideration of the services rendered by the Governor his uncle, and other Generals of the Indias who were members of his house. Having seen in the Council of the Indias the petition and letters patent of nobility, and considering the great services done by Pedro Menendez de Aviles in the conquest of Florida as well as in other positions of trust where he has acted with so much valor as to deserve that his King Felipe the Second should have voluntarily given him the title of Governor, and that his successors continue to occupy positions as Generals--his house having spread such glory and honor as to be noted, it has seemed well that your Majesty should grant the petitioner the title of Castile, that he may enjoy the honors he so well deserves as a reward for his many and remarkable services. Your Grace will command that which is most deserved. Madrid, November 28th, 1671. * * * * * _Sire_: By Cedula of January 20th of this year, your Majesty commands me to give information regarding the designs of the English enemy. Also of the discovery of the South Sea by the four vessels which sailed through the Strait of Magellan, from which I had news that they arrived at Baldivia dismantled. A German Captain was in command. He showed great zeal in serving you. He gave a long account of the Viceroy of Peru, and what he intended doing. The Government Places under my charge are the Garrison of St. Augustine, Harbour and Port of Apalache and the river St. Catherine, a frontier of St. Elena, where the English enemy are at present; a few other less important harbours, all of which I desire to have guarded as by your orders I am obligated.