Despachos Del Cappn. Don Jno. De Natera Altamirano Serca De Su Linpieza [sic] Fenesida

Resumen del Libro

File of documents from Spain and Mexico, dated 1604-1630, concerning the proceedings by the Inquisition to approve the appointment of Juan de Natera Altamirano as an officer of the Inquisition. Altamirano, a native of Gibraltar, Spain, now residing in Campeche, Mexico, must undergo a detailed examination of his family background and prove the purity of his bloodlines before he can receive the title of familiar. A lengthy section, dated Sept. 24, 1604, presents the interrogation and testimony of 8 witnesses for Altamirano in Spain. Also included is a statement by Altamirano from 1611, describing his parentage, approval of the title by the Inquisitors of Seville, dated April 11, 1628, copies of letters and other testimony from Seville approved by the Inquisition officials in Mexico City, and the final approval in Mexico City on April 28, 1629. A final letter from Mérida, dated Jan. 4, 1632, indicates that Altamirano has taken the oath of loyalty and secrecy of the familiar.