By Cedule of your Majesty dated in Madrid, July 18th, 1674, you ask for a statement of the order pursued in the functions of the Edicts of Faith and Anathena and the places where they conduct the Holy Tribunal of the Inquisition. And also the cause of the controversies offered by the city whenever they are performed and what has been done this year. The city to avoid all scandal resolved to allow the Commissioner of the Inquisition to conduct things his own way--taking testimony of all the proceedings to report to your Majesty. These acts have no fixed time, but left to the arbitration of the Commissioner who has them when he pleases, every two, three, and even six years. After discussion it was decided not to have them executed this year, as it is not a regular custom, and we wished to report before giving more examples of dissensions. For twenty years the City has allowed itself to be fined for neglect of duty in assisting at the performances. As there is no Tribunal of Inquisition here the Commissioner succeeded in getting the City to go to his house for him, and he, precedes the City. In church, his place to be on the Gospel side, with the humility recognized in such places. The decision of this controversy seems to depend on Law 20, Chapter 26, of the ninth recompilation of the Indias. This last, the Holy Tribunal of the Inquisition pretends is only understood by your Majesty, the Viceroys and Captain-Generals in whom are found a living representation. So that to represent the Holy Tribunal of the Inquisition the power is solely invested in your Commissioner--from this comes the act of tramping under foot your Government, whom the Commissioner tries to subdue in all, to his will, as well as the Notary Public and Ministers. That a stop may be put to his audaciousness it has seemed wise and prudent to make a report with testimonies attached to your Majesty, that you may act as you deem proper in the case. May God grant you long life. SEVERINO MAUSANEDA. Havana, March 17th, 1690. * * * * * A. D. 1691. _Your Highness_: