"Examines system of criminal justice in Quito from second half of 17th to first half of 18th centuries. Methodologically sophisticated, yet eminently readable. Based on extensive archival research in Spain and Ecuador. A novel, exceptionally important, multivariant contribution to the administrative, institutional, and social history of the colony. Originally presented in French as author's doctoral dissertation in 1994"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.