Note XXXIV‑12 — Chapter XXXIV · HONDURAS. 1550-1800.

The name of the prelate who was in charge at the time is a matter of doubt. In 1651 Doctor Juan de Merlo was consecrated bishop of Honduras in Mexico, but did not proceed to his diocese until December of the following year. Guijo, Diario, in Doc. Hist. Mex., série i. tom. i. 190, 228. How long he held office is not known. In 1671 the see was offered to Pedro de Angulo, who declined the mitre. Robles, Diario, in Id., série i. tom. ii. 114. The next appointment mentioned is that of Martin de Espinosa, who died suddenly in 1675, while in the act of dispensing alms after mass. He was a centenarian, but apparently in good health. Id., 210. According to Vasquez, he foretold his death eight days before; its approach being revealed to him in a vision. Chron. de Gvat., 215-16. No other reference is made to the episcopate of Honduras until the close of the century, when it is stated that Angel Maldonado, who had received the mitre, was transferred to Oajaca. Robles, Diario, in Doc. Hist. Mex., série i. tom. iii. 256-7.