"Well-edited edition, with critical commentary, of four of author's texts, which are major sources for understanding the intellectual and political climate of the Viceroyalty of Peru during first half of the 18th century. Peralta Barnuevo (1663-1743) was a friend and confidant of viceroys as well as a major figure in intellectual circles. His life and writings have been largely overlooked until recently"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.