Note XII‑1 — Chapter XII · ALVARADO'S LAST EXPEDITION. 1537-1541.
Reading edition
Arévalo, Col. Doc. Antig., 13. The law was soon modified by decrees of Feb. 12, 1538, and of June 29 and November 8, 1539, by which prelates and governors were directed to induce all eligible unmarried men holding encomiendas to marry within three years. This, however, was to be accomplished by persuasive means, or by distinguishing in favor of the married men in the distribution of Indians, and not by coercive measures, Recop. de Indias, ii. 271-2.