The claim of hostile natives that the Spanish priests have an influence in matters of state that make them a ruling class is one that they urge when expressing their resolve that the Friars must go.

The Spanish policy, especially in the municipal governments, has been to magnify the office of the priests in political functions.

The proceedings of a meeting of the people in order to receive attention or to have legal standing must be certified by a priest.

It is the Spanish priest that is wanted in matters of moment, and the laws make his presence indispensable.

The Spanish priests are, therefore, identified in the public mind with all the details of misgovernment.