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Show SUBSCRIBERS’ EDITION One Thousand Fie Hundred Numbered Autograph Copies NUMBER 1404 ; ; 4? } “I have discovered a New Mexico as well as a New Viscaya”’ — FRANcISco DE [BARRA Las Vegas, New Mexico, January To His ExceLueNcy, 1, 1911 THE HoNorABLE WILLIAM J. MILs Governor of New Mexico SIR: The writing of the history of New Mexico, as found in these volumes, has been accomplished after many years of reading and research. Oftentimes I have been disheartened, owing to my inability to secure accurate information. It has been difficult to harmonize the recorded statements of recognized authorities, varying as they do in many vital particulars. It has been my constant endeavor to overlook no book, document, or other source of information calculated to throw light upon the I have tried to be accurate and fair. occurrences of the past. Through you, I am giving this work to our people with the hope that careful study will not fail to impress upon the reader’s mind the fortitude, the courage, the suffering, and the martyrdom of those who first brought to New Mexico the banner of Christianity and civilization, trusting that present and future generations of New Mexicans may thereby better understand the difficulties surrounding and harassing their predecessors in the maintenance and preservation of that emblem during the periods of isolation which preceded the advent of twentieth century progress and conditions. Respectfully yours nial al P oe aden ee or) tiie metattee te te oe oe ee ed Shaded ee te Boe atti tei tie te” if CPM el & Pata d att pede FEL. FOR tee te |