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Show 456 HOW TO GARRISON THE PRESIDIOS. found others, these being from the Yumas downward, it seems to me expedient that each presidio have ten men more, which I consider necessary for the guard ( escolta- escort) of the missions- that is, for each one which may be founded. The reason is, because all these nations are numerous, powerful, and warlike, and in all parts have friends; and if we have to secure this river properly ( segun conviene), this must be done with an adequate force ( gente suficiente). This guard of ten men indicated for each mission ought to be always therein, and the captain be not allowed to decrease it or give it any other destination; and when they may be no longer considered necessary, let them vacate the premises as a relief to ( baquen las plazas a fabor de) the royal coffers, or with them may be founded other missions. It appears to me also proper that all these men of the guard be married, in order that without hindrance may be accomplished the cause of God. Also am I of opinion that as far as may be possible, both the presidio and the missions be founded on the other side of the river, since with this defense ( balu-arte- bulwark) would be secured from the Apaches the horses and cattle; these do not know how to swim, nor, according to the foregoing suppositions, will there be anyone to drive them across the river, and consequently there cannot be experienced there that which to such great grief is experienced now in these |