Informe concerning method of government for missions in California.

In response to viceroy's request, Verger makes suggestions in 22 parts for physical and spiritual development of missions. says new missions should be delayed until older ones are firmly established with sufficient arms and military protection. Must grow food for all mission and presidio residents. Storage and distribution should never be left to Indians. nor should be left to caudillos and capitans since after Jesuit expulsion California example shows they destroy missions. Under priests' control more churches built, more ornaments retained, larger harvests collected. says some form of punishment is necessary because Indians will abuse and steal property without it. Indians should be treated fairly and paid a salary. Describes daily masses and visits to sick and widowed. Discusses corn, bean, lentil crops, weekly rations and duties of women. Discusses also Indian jobs, products and locations of trade. Discusses differences between present conditions and those of Conquistadores. Relates difficulties with jefes who replace hardworkers with incompetents. References to decree by Valero ordering military protection for missions. Discusses power struggle between military and missionary. Verger claims arms are not needed for conversion, only evangelical preaching. (M. Dannemiller March 1988)