ark and observe,
in order better to fulfil the office and trust which he holds._

1. For this office shall always be chosen persons who are thoroughly
competent and well approved--whose purity of family descent, and
exemplary life and habits, have been previously ascertained through
written information. Besides this, confidence is placed in their
prudence, moderation, and temperance, which qualities will enable
them to exercise aright the trust conferred upon them, and they
will exercise it, for the public good, for the better transaction of
business, and not for any private ends. Above all, it behooves them,
and they are earnestly charged, not to employ the name and title of the
Holy Office for avenging individual wrongs, or for the intimidation
or affront of any person. The more such a person shall suspect the
inquisitor's friendship, the more prudently must the latter deal with
him; otherwise, not only will God be therein offended, but the Holy
Office will be greatly wronged.

2. As soon as the commissary receives his appointment, and before
he makes use of his powers, he must accept it in the presence of an
apostolic notary or a royal scrivener, in whose presence he shall give
oath of secrecy and fidelity according to the minute accompanying
these instructions. He will show the said title to the governor,
and to the ecclesiastical and lay cabildos, in order that they may
receive, treat, and recognize him as a commissary and agent of so
holy an office. He will take great care not to exceed his commission,
but to fulfil it, observing these instructions and other particulars
which will be sent to him, which treat of the manner of receiving
acknowledgments, substantiating testimony, and visiting ships. To
show the certificate of appointment to the cabildos is only a mark
of courtesy, and in no way a necessary proceeding; for there is no
need of their permission or approbation. The commissary is advised
of this because the patent for his commission does not require any
other contrasignature or permission for its validity.

3. Secrecy is the surest means, which the Inquisition is to employ
very rigorously, for the detection and punishment of crimes. Therefore
the commissary is strictly charged to observe secrecy in reference
to these instructions, or any others which shall be sent to him, or
letters written to him about business, and all else that comes to his
notice in the capacity of commissary. He shall impose the