Getting your loan

You return soon to meet with Maximilian. Isabella, who came to greet you, seems a bit disappointed that you are here for business, not courtship. While you hate to make a young lady sad, it is an encouraging sign to see that she has taken a solid interest in you. Sancho guides you upstairs with his usual obsequiousness, and departs in the same manner on the governor's bidding.

"So, I assume you're here for the money I promised?" he asks in a theatrical tone. You nod yes, of course.

Maximilian brings out a ledger from his desk. "Yes, my accountant had a look at the matter. Hiring some guards, a little pricey, but the local toughs should do the job adequately for cheap, you can find plenty of them at the tavern. Then, you will need a priest; he can also serve as a teacher, a bit of a high workload but it will save on costs." He runs his index finger over the page, doing his best to look exacting.

"Now, we don't need to hire a professor from Salamanca; still, we will have to bring someone in from the mainland, as priests are in high demand in the colonies. That will increase expenses a bit..." He taps the paper with a pen, as if punishing the numbers for being to high. He looks up at you, getting a read of your face. Then he hands over the book.

"That's it?" is all you can say.

Max looks at you, confident in his position. "The numbers are right there. On what point do you want to argue?"

You must admit, finances have never been your strong point. Money is a crass matter for peasants and merchants, not fine nobility. You left all the matters of money up to your parents and their workers. Frankly, you have no idea what you're doing. You sigh, and agree to the deal. Maximilian shakes your hand.

"You know, few would be so generous. I offer you a line of credit without even demanding collateral! Perhaps I shall be canonized?" he says with a laugh. Maximilian looks at your dejected silence, and his jesting mood turns more sympathetic. "I'm sorry Alfonos, but I really mustn't overextend myself. Once I am removed from my post, I may never have such an income again. If you are careful with these funds, they should get you by. Just, be very careful." You tell him that you understand, then bow to leave. As you go you briefly chat with Isabella, promising to visit her soon. For now, you must focus on your encomienda.