AND THE GOVERNORS AT LAGUNA AND SANTA CRUZ.
It is reported they can raise 12,000 armed men on this island. The
governor or general (as he is called) of all the Canary Islands lives at
Laguna: his name is Don Pedro de Ponto. He is a native of this island,
and was not long since President of Panama in the South Seas: who
bringing some very rich pearls from thence, which he presented to the
Queen of Spain, was therefore, as it is said, made general of the Canary
Islands. The Grand Canary is an island much superior to Tenerife both in
bulk and value; but this gentleman chooses rather to reside in this his
native island. He has the character of a very worthy person; and governs
with moderation and justice, being very well beloved.
One of his deputies was the governor of Santa Cruz, with whom I was to
have dined; but staying so long at Laguna, I came but time enough to sup
with him. He is a civil, discreet man. He resides in the main fort close
by the sea. There is a sentinel stands at his door; and he has a few
servants to wait on him. I was treated in a large dark lower room, which
has but one small window.
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