Benavides and Moral were both unsuccessful in dominating the secular clergy serving in the parochial church. In their battles with various clerics, they could not overcome the power and influence of the bishop of Cuba, the constant defender of the Florida clergy. This bishop opposed all attempts to discredit the seculars in Saint Augustine and prevented their domination by the governor there. Most governors, however, maintained a semblance of good relations with the clergy. Benavides and Moral were exceptions and did not reflect the normally peaceful ties binding the governor with church leaders. (Tepaske GSF)