Some typographical errors have been corrected; a list follows the text.

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A LIBRARY

FOR

MY YOUNG COUNTRYMEN.

EDITED BY

THE AUTHOR OF “UNCLE PHILIP’S CONVERSATIONS.”

VOLUME IV.

ADVENTURES OF HERNAN CORTES.

THE
ADVENTURES
OF THE
CONQUEROR OF MEXICO

colophon

By the Author of
“Uncle Philip’s Conversations”

NEW YORK
D. Appleton & Company 200 Broadway.

THE

A D V E N T U R E S

OF

H E R N A N C O R T E S,

THE

CONQUEROR OF MEXICO.

BY
THE AUTHOR OF “UNCLE PHILIP’S CONVERSATIONS.”

NEW YORK:
D. APPLETON & CO., 200 BROADWAY.

PHILADELPHIA:
GEORGE S. APPLETON, 148 CHESTNUT ST.

MDCCCXLIII.

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Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1843,
By D. APPLETON & CO.,
in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States,
for the Southern District of New York.
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STEREOTYPED BY REDFIELD & SAVAGE,
13 Chambers Street, New York.

NOTE.

THE writer of this volume has thought it best not to encumber a book written for the young, with references to authorities. He owes it to himself, however, to say, that he believes he has made no statement for which authority may not readily be produced.

To any older readers, who may possibly glance at the volume, he would remark, that he is indebted for his materials principally to Antonio de Herrera, Bernal Diaz, Antonio de Solis, Torquemada, Clavigero, Don Telesforo de Trueba y Cosio, Venegas, the letters of Hernan Cortes, the English historian Robertson, and our own lamented countryman, R. C. Sands, Esq.

TO

THOSE OF MY YOUNG COUNTRYMEN,

WHO ARE DISPOSED TO GATHER FROM THE PAGES OF

HISTORY, A STORY OF REAL LIFE, STRANGER

THAN ANY TALE OF ROMANCE,

This Volume

IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED,

By the Author.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.
Birth and parentage of Hernan Cortes—His early boyhood—At the age of fourteen he is sent to the University of Salamanca—Proves lazy, and returns home—Leaves his books, and takes to field-sports—Disappointment of his father—Passion of young Cortes for military life—Determines to join the great captain Gonzalo in the wars of Italy, but is disappointed—Resolves to accompany his kinsman Ovando to Hispaniola, but is prevented by an accident—At length reaches Hispaniola in 1504—Kindness of Ovando—Restlessness of Cortes—His third disappointment—Accompanies Diego Velasquez in his conquest of Cuba—Imprudence of Cortes—Expedition of Hernandez de Cordova and Juan de Grijalva—Discoveries of Grijalva—Excitement among the Spaniards—Cortes manages to get command of an expedition for the continent—Jealousy of Velasquez—Attempts to stop him at Trinidad and Havana—Enthusiasm among the followers of Cortes	Page 13
CHAPTER II.
Cortes arrives at Cozumel—Imprudence of Alvarado—Discovery of Geronimo de Aguilar—his wretched condition—The fleet reaches Tabasco—Hostility of the natives—Cortes offers to treat with them; they refuse—Notwithstanding their opposition, he makes his landing—Defeats them on the great plain of Ceutla—Receives Doña Marina as a present—He erects a cross upon the plain—The fleet sails for St. Juan de Ulua—Reaches that harbor—Kindness of the natives—Interview with Teutchlile, their chief—Demands that he may see the Emperor Montezuma, and sends presents to him—Alarm of Montezuma—He refuses to see the strangers, but sends presents to them—Cortes again demands to see him—Anger and fear of the Emperor—Commands Cortes to leave his empire, yet sends him further presents	31
CHAPTER III.
Teutchlile arrives at the Spanish camp with the commands of Montezuma—Finds Cortes in the midst of difficulties with his men—Leaves the camp angry—Murmurs of the men—Management of Cortes—Commences the settlement of Villa Rica de la Vera Cruz—Quiets the complaints of the discontented—The Cacique of Chempoalla invites him to visit him—Cortes accepts the invitation—Interview between them—The settlement is removed to Quiabislan—Friendship of the Caciques of Chempoalla and Quiabislan—The tax-gatherers of Montezuma arrive—Cortes arrests them—The Totonacas become his friends—Visits the Cincapacingas—Makes friends of them—Imprudence of Cortes in the temple of Chempoalla—Sends messengers with presents to the King of Spain—Plot of Escudero and Centeno to stop them—They are put to death—Cortes destroys his fleet, and prepares to march toward Mexico—Arrival of Alonzo de Pineda upon the coast—Stratagem of Cortes—Sets out on his march—Passes Xalapan, Socachema, and Texotla, and arrives at Xocotlan—Interview with the Cacique—Determines to pursue his journey through the province of Tlascala	46
CHAPTER IV.
Cortes enters the Tlascalan territory—Character of the people—Wars with the Tlascalans—Cortes subdues them—They become his allies—Marches to Cholula—Conspiracy and awful massacre of the Cholulans	64
CHAPTER V.
Cortes sends messengers to Montezuma, and leaves Cholula—Alarm of Montezuma—The Spaniards reach the summit of Ithualco, and see the valley of Mexico—Montezuma retires to the palace of Tlillancalmecatl to mourn and pray—Sends his nephew Cacamatzin to dissuade Cortes from entering his city—Cortes crosses the causeway of Iztapalapan—Meets Montezuma—His splendid appearance—Enters Mexico, and makes his quarters at the palace of Axajacatl—Montezuma visits him—Cortes returns the visit—By his permission, visits the great market-place, the temple, &c.—Is disgusted in the temple—Anger of Montezuma—Suspicions of the Tlascalans—Death of Escalante—Treachery of the nobles—Cortes resolves to seize Montezuma—Enters his palace, and carries him away to the Spanish quarters	83
CHAPTER VI.
Montezuma becomes satisfied at the Spanish quarters—Arrival of Quauhpopoca—He is delivered to Cortes—His confession—Is tried, and condemned to die—Montezuma is fettered, and Quauhpopoca burnt—Revolt of Cacamatzin, the lord of Tezcuco—He is made a prisoner—Cortes persuades Montezuma to swear allegiance to the King of Spain—and to send him a present of gold and silver—The nobles are roused—Montezuma orders Cortes to leave the country—allows him time to build ships for his departure—Arrival of Pamphilo de Narvaez with eighteen ships—Cortes is ordered again to leave—His joy and disappointment—Treachery of Montejo—Anger of Velasquez—Endeavors to make a friend of Narvaez—Sends him messages and presents—Narvaez proves stubborn—Cortes leaves one hundred and fifty men with Alvarado at Mexico, and marches to Chempoalla—Attacks him at midnight and makes him a prisoner—The soldiers of Narvaez gladly enlist under him	102
CHAPTER VII.
Insurrection of the Mexicans in the capital—Struggles of Cortes—Death of Montezuma—Awful conflict in the temple—The Spaniards retreat from Mexico—Dreadful massacre on the causeway of Tacuba—Cortes escapes with the remnant of his army to the temple of Otoncalpolco—Determines to go to Tlascala	120
CHAPTER VIII.
Battle of Otompan—Victory of the Spaniards—Cortes reaches Tlascala—Kindness of the Tlascalans—The soldiers of Narvaez murmur—Cortes receives unexpected reinforcements—The murmurers are sent home—He despatches messengers to Spain, Hispaniola, and Jamaica—Orders ship-timbers to be cut in the Tlascalan forests—Makes his head-quarters at Tezcuco—Death of Cuitlahuitzin—Guatimozin is made King of Mexico—Cortes attacks the cities Iztapalapan, Chalco, and Tlalmamalco—Sandoval reduces Zoltepec—The timbers for the brigantines are brought to Tezcuco—Xaltocan and Tacuba are reduced—Guatimozin refuses terms of peace—Quauhnahuac and Xochimilco are attacked—Narrow escape of Cortes—Conspiracy of Villafaña—Courage and address of Cortes—The brigantines are launched	140
CHAPTER IX.
The siege of Mexico is commenced—Dreadful massacre of the Spaniards on the causeways—Narrow escape of Cortes—Frightful festival of the Mexicans in the temple—Their cunning—Prudence of Cortes—The siege is renewed—Message to Guatimozin—His scornful answer—The Spaniards enter the capital—The last quarter is besieged—Guatimozin is made prisoner—The capital reduced—Disappointed avarice of the Spaniards—Guatimozin is put to the torture—Cortes snatches him from his tormentors—Death of the Mexican King—Conquest of the distant provinces—Enmity of the Bishop of Burgos toward Cortes—Rebuilding of the capital—Cortes liberates Narvaez	157
CHAPTER X.
Revolt in Panuco—Intrigues in Spain against Cortes—His friends support him—The King makes him Captain-General and Governor of New Spain—His great popularity—Arrival of Garay—Imprudence of his men—Slaughter of the Panuchese—The Bishop of Burgos and Narvaez continue their intrigues—Treachery and death of Christoval de Olid—March of Cortes to Honduras—The King issues a commission to investigate his conduct—Fidelity of the soldiers of Cortes—He embarks for Spain—Death of Sandoval—Reception of Cortes at the Spanish court—He returns to Mexico disappointed—Difficulties with the Audiencia—Embarks in new adventures—Discovery of California—Fails in his plans—Returns to Spain—Ingratitude of the King—Scornful treatment of the ministers—Death of Cortes—His remains are taken to Mexico	174

THE

ADVENTURES OF HERNAN CORTES.

CHAPTER I.

WHO has not heard of that daring and fiery Spaniard, Hernan Cortes, the Conqueror of Mexico? The story of his exploits is as wild as a fable, and were it not now a well-known part of the history of Mexico, could scarcely be believed. To those of my young fellow-citizens who may be ignorant of his career, I offer the history of this remarkable man.

If you will look upon a map of Spain, in the province of Estremadura, you will find the small town of Medellin. At this place, in the year 1485, Hernan Cortes was born of poor but respectable parents. His parents (Don Martin Cortes de Monroy and Doña Catalina Pizarro de Altamirano) were of noble descent, had been once rich, but were now reduced. Whatever others may think, I consider it fortunate that young Cortes was born poor. Had he been the child of a rich man, he might have been reared in the midst of foolish luxuries and indulgences, led a life of idle dissipation, and proved utterly worthless: as it was, his poverty forced him to make exertions and to struggle with the world. Poverty helped him, as it has helped many others; it taught him to rely upon his own energies. It was particularly fortunate in his case; for his natural temperament, as you will see, was just such as to ruin him, had he been born to a rich inheritance.

Of the earliest years of his boyhood I can tell you nothing, except that he was a warm-hearted, sprightly, and intelligent lad, admired and beloved by all who knew him. At the age of fourteen he gave such promise of future usefulness, that his father determined he should have the advantage of an education, to fit him for the study of the law. Young Cortes was sent, therefore, at this time, to the celebrated University of Salamanca. Here, for the first time, he disappointed the expectations of his friends. His ardent and restless nature could not well bear the close industry and confinement of college life, and boys of inferior parts outstripped him in his studies. At the end of two years, I am sorry to say that he was worse than lazy. He was now so weary of his situation, that he became the leader of many wild and mischievous irregularities—so much so, that more than once he came near being expelled from the University. At length, to the great sorrow of his father, he left Salamanca, and returned to Medellin. Here, laying aside all books, he devoted himself to active and manly sports, and made himself skilful in horsemanship and the use of arms.

For some time he continued in this career, and being, unfortunately as it proved at the time, a boy of fine appearance, amiable disposition, and engaging manners, he brought about him many companions, and launched with them into many dissipations. His father was now very miserable. Far from dreaming that his son would ever reach honor or distinction, he feared that he was in a fair way to prove a worthless and unhappy man. One hope, however, was still left him. The boy had a passion for military life, and sighed for daring adventures as a soldier. This passion was carefully cultivated by the father, and in a little time, when an occasion presented itself, young Cortes showed that he was fully alive to it. The “Great Captain” Gonzalo de Cordova was adding to his fame in the wars in Italy, and crowds of Spanish youth were eager to flock to his standard. Among the rest was Hernan Cortes. Numbers enlisted, but when they were about starting on their march to join Cordova at Naples, young Cortes was suddenly seized with sickness, and thereby kept at home. This was a sad disappointment to the boy, as well as his father.

Another opportunity for adventure, however, soon offered, with fairer prospects for Cortes. Don Nicolas de Ovando, his kinsman, had been appointed the Governor of Hispaniola, and Don Martin supposed that, under the patronage of this kinsman, a fair field was opened before his son in the New World. Young Cortes now forgot his disappointment, and set his heart upon accompanying Don Nicolas. Great preparations were making for transporting the new Governor to his dominions; and, as he watched the progress, his desires were the more inflamed. Thirty-two ships were soon ready, and twenty-five hundred persons (many of them people of rank) were about embarking as settlers for the new colony. But when all was ready, Cortes was again prevented from being one of the number. This disappointment was brought about by his own folly and rashness. It seems that he had formed an attachment for a lady at Medellin, and on a dark night, before the ships set sail, was trying to reach the window of her chamber. In doing this, he had to scramble over an old wall, which unfortunately gave way under him, and he was severely injured by the fall. The ships, therefore, sailed without him, leaving young Cortes sick and sorrowful, and his father deeply mortified.

At length, having slowly recovered, his father once more turned his thoughts toward the New World. Young Cortes still burned with the desire to join his kinsman Don Nicolas; and all being made ready accordingly, he left Medellin, and arrived safely at Saint Domingo, in the year 1504. Ovando welcomed him cordially, receiving him like his own son. He at once fixed him in places of distinction and profit, and seemed in every way determined to push his fortunes. Notwithstanding this, Cortes was restless, and in a little time panting for a wider field, where he might earn, as he thought, fame and glory. He was better satisfied when a circumstance occurred, which he thought opened that field. Two Spaniards, Ojeda and Nicuesa, had determined upon an expedition for the purpose of making discoveries and settlements upon the main land of America. Cortes heartily joined them in this enterprise, laboring with diligence to make all things ready. But when, at length, all was ready, his companions departed, leaving him too sick to undertake the voyage. He was now very miserable over this third disappointment, but afterwards, when he learned the result of that expedition, he looked upon the disappointment as a blessing. It was the most unfortunate attempt ever made by the Spaniards in the New World. The poor adventurers suffered sorely by tempests; and when at length they landed, the poisoned arrows of the natives, together with disease and famine, swept off the most of them. A little colony planted upon the Isthmus of Darien, by Vasco Nuñez de Balboa, was all that remained of the enterprise. Yet with all this, he had a thought that had he been among the adventurers, things might have gone better; and his heart was still bent upon discoveries and conquests. Among all the wild schemes of adventure talked of among the settlers at Hispaniola, none were too wild for him: he was ready, in fact, for any daring expedition,—the more daring the better.

In 1511, Don Diego Columbus, who had succeeded Ovando as Governor, determined upon the conquest of the island of Cuba, and Cortes resolved to bear his part in it. The Governor selected as the leader of this enterprise Diego Velasquez, a man well known in Hispaniola; and Cortes managed by his ability to be made, with Andres de Duero, joint secretary to Velasquez. In a little time all was ready, and Velasquez departed with a large number of followers. He anticipated a struggle in subduing the natives of the island, and had made preparations for it; but, strange to tell, an island seven hundred miles long, and covered with numerous inhabitants, was brought into subjection almost without an effort. The cacique Hatuey opposed his landing, and afterwards gave him some trouble, but with his three hundred men he was soon master of the island, and established several colonies, the principal one being at St. Jago.

Cortes, seeing the advantage of his position, cultivated warmly the friendship of Velasquez; and as he knew that Andres de Duero had his particular confidence, he managed to make a warm friend of him. Many of the people, however, soon became dissatisfied with Velasquez, and determined to send complaints against him to Don Diego Columbus. Cortes, by his manly bearing, had made friends of the multitude, and when they came to choosing some one who should bear their complaints, the boldness and sagacity of Cortes prompted them to choose him. It was a dangerous business, for the bearer would not only provoke Velasquez, but would risk his life in passing over to Hispaniola in a canoe. Yet Cortes imprudently agreed to undertake it. Velasquez was so provoked, that he declared he should suffer the punishment of death. Men were immediately ordered to arrest him. But Cortes, hearing of this, managed to make his escape, and hid himself in the church. Feeling safe here, he determined to remain until Andres de Duero could induce the commander to pardon him. His ardor and imprudence, however, soon revealed his hiding-place. He had formed an attachment for a young woman of good family, called Doña Catalina Suarez de Pacheco. She lived not far from the church, and Cortes was in the habit of meeting her. The officers knew this, and kept watch for him. One night, having left the church, thinking he was unseen, he was suddenly surprised, seized before he could make any resistance, and led off to prison. He seemed now to have so much sorrow for his error, that Velasquez was induced to forgive him. Afterwards, having married Doña Catalina, upon the birth of his first son, he requested the Governor to stand as the god-father. To this Velasquez cheerfully consented, and now they seemed as warm friends as ever. Cortes bore himself in every way kindly towards him, and lost no opportunity of making himself agreeable to him.

Desirous of extending his dominions, Velasquez, in the year 1517, had allowed Hernandez de Cordova to sail with a small expedition from Cuba, and he had discovered the eastern cape of Yucatan. It was an unfortunate expedition,—the commander and the greater portion of his soldiers having perished in it. Yet the accounts which Velasquez had received, induced him to fit out another and more powerful expedition. Four vessels were at once made ready, and Juan de Grijalva, at the head of two hundred and fifty men, took the command of them. In a short time, he discovered the island of Cozumel, and then following in the track of Cordova, coasted along the shores of Yucatan, trading with the natives, giving them such trinkets as he had, for gold and food. At last he made a landing on the island of St. Juan de Ulua. The Mexicans upon the coasts were now greatly alarmed. They had never seen such men or weapons as they now beheld, and they instantly sent messengers to their chief, Montezuma, telling him of the arrival of these new visiters. Montezuma was greatly frightened by their news. It is said that from this time he had no peace, living daily in the fear that his empire would be taken from him. The Spaniards remained several days at the island, and succeeded in finding some gold. Grijalva, after making his observations, became convinced that the coast near by was part of a continent, and he panted to land there and push his discoveries. There was danger, however, in this, as he did not know the character of the people whom he should meet, and the number of his men had been greatly reduced by disease. He resolved, therefore, to wait until he could get a reinforcement from Cuba, and accordingly sent a messenger back to Velasquez to get assistance. Having done this, he pursued his discoveries about the province of Panuco, which he found covered (it is said) with large and populous towns at the distance of three leagues from the coast.

In the mean time, his messenger, Pedro de Alvarado, had arrived in Cuba, bearing specimens of gold, and telling of the wonderful discoveries of Grijalva. Velasquez was greatly delighted: like all his countrymen at that time, he was thirsting for gold and conquests. His delight, too, was the greater, because he had heard nothing before from Grijalva since he sailed, and had feared he was lost. His fears had at one time been so intense, that he had despatched a vessel under the command of Christoval de Olid to seek him. Olid had followed in the track of his companions, but after being beaten about with tempests, had returned to Cuba without any tidings of them.

Alvarado’s story soon spread over the island, and multitudes were eager to join Grijalva. The prospect of wealth and glory was now fairly opened before them, but among them all there was none more excited than Hernan Cortes. Velasquez immediately sent messengers to Spain with the glorious news of Grijalva’s discovery, and then commenced fitting out an expedition for the new continent. The vessel was soon ready, and three hundred volunteers came forward, desirous of embarking. Among these were Diego de Ordaz, Francisco de Morla, Escobar, and Bernal Diaz del Castillo, who afterwards wrote a History of the Conquest of Mexico. Now came the time for choosing a leader for this expedition. Velasquez knew very well that a good leader was everything in such an enterprise, and he was very cautious. Some recommended to the Governor to appoint Vasco Porcallo, a man of high rank, while the soldiers were in favor of Grijalva. Others spoke of Augustin Bermudez, and Bernardino Velasquez, relatives of the Governor, as fit persons, but none of them pleased Velasquez. The truth is, the Governor was jealous. He was desirous of appointing some one who was capable of leading the enterprise, and at the same time one who would not slight his authority. He was seeking his own glory.

From the beginning of the preparations, Hernan Cortes had determined, if possible, to be the leader of this expedition. He was himself on good terms with Velasquez, but was not willing to trust the chance of success to that. He knew that there were two individuals possessing more influence over the Governor than any others: these were Amador de Lares, the royal treasurer of Cuba, and Andres de Duero, his secretary; and these, fortunately, were warm friends of his own. He bargained with these, therefore, to procure for him the command of the expedition, promising to reward them amply if they should succeed. Their attachment for Cortes, together with this hope of reward, induced them to urge his claim warmly. They declared to Velasquez that Cortes (as he well knew) was in every way fitted to take the command—that he was honorable, prudent, and fearless, and greatly beloved by all the Spaniards. Velasquez was pleased with the thought. He felt that Cortes was the proper man as to ability, and the thought that he possessed neither rank nor fortune, prevented any jealousy towards him. Cortes had behaved well whenever he had been trusted, and Velasquez was convinced he might be trusted now. Then, too, he remembered the friendship that had been kept between them since the marriage of Cortes, and naturally enough supposed that their former difficulty made him the safer man for this occasion. To the great joy of Cortes, Velasquez declared publicly that he was to be the leader of the expedition.

As soon as this appointment was made known, the disappointed relatives of the Governor began to beset him with strange stories of Cortes, hoping to startle his fears, that he might take the command from him. Nor did they work in vain. They succeeded so far in making him jealous, that his friends Lares and Duero became alarmed. They immediately gave notice to Cortes of what was doing, and he as quickly, before the poison had time fully to work, made all things ready for a start. He then went to see the Governor, and had a long talk with him about the whole enterprise. Velasquez was now so much pleased, that on the next morning, when Cortes was about to sail, he went with him to the vessel, and they had a warm and affectionate parting.

It was on the 18th day of November, 1519, that Cortes set sail from St. Jago. In a little time he reached Trinidad, a small settlement upon the island, and here discovered that his enemies were still at work to ruin him. Disappointed ambition is a base enemy to deal with. Cortes had no sooner sailed, than the kinsmen of the Governor told worse stories than ever. They knew the jealous nature of Velasquez, and worked upon it freely. They declared that Cortes was selfish and ambitious, and would despise his authority;—that he must expect nothing but insolence from him. Velasquez for some time felt easy; for notwithstanding his friendly parting with Cortes, he had given commands to Diego de Ordaz, one of the adventurers, to watch him, and report to him whatever was done. He felt, therefore, that he had a spy upon the actions of the leader, and this gave him confidence. But these disappointed men worked upon him until he began to feel that his spy would prove faithless. Then they began to frighten him in a new way: they hired a man named Juan Millian, who pretended to be an astrologer, to help them in their mean design, and this fellow prophesied terrible sorrows if the command was not taken from Cortes. All the suspicions of Velasquez were now roused. He knew the vessel was to touch at Trinidad, and now he sent his messengers with positive orders to Francisco Verdugo, the chief magistrate of the place. These orders were, to take the command from Cortes and give it to Vasco Porcallo. Secret instructions were sent also to Diego de Ordaz to assist in this matter. But, fortunately, the friends of Cortes had not forgotten him. Lares and Duero knew what mischief was at work, and they secretly sent news of the whole to Cortes. He at once understood the danger of his position, and understood as well how to meet it. Knowing that much depended upon making a friend of Diego de Ordaz, he sought him immediately. The open bearing of Cortes, with his powerful persuasions and brilliant promises, at once won the friendship of Ordaz. So far from aiding the commands given to Verdugo, he went to the magistrate and convinced him that it was impossible to obey the commands of Velasquez. Cortes, he declared, had the hearts of the people, and it was idle to oppose him. Some think that Verdugo was bribed, but it is more probable that the great popularity of Cortes made him afraid to attempt to carry out his orders. At all events, Cortes was undisturbed. To blind Velasquez, he now wrote him a friendly letter, and then set sail from Trinidad.

Ere long he reached Havana, another settlement. Here he commenced beating up recruits, and gathering stores and provisions to strengthen his armament. This was easily done; multitudes eagerly joined him. Cortes hurried this business as rapidly as possible, for he still feared the jealousy of the suspicious Governor, and expected every hour the arrival of orders to stop him. In this fear he was not mistaken. He had not yet completed his arrangements, when the order came. Velasquez, more enraged against him than ever, because Verdugo had not obeyed his commands, and now certain that Cortes meant to defy him, sent a messenger with secret instructions to Pedro Barba, the commander at Havana, ordering him at once to seize Cortes, send him under a strong guard to St. Jago, and then delay the expedition until he should receive further orders. The principal officers were also commanded to aid Pedro Barba in arresting Cortes. Fortunately for Cortes, he was again advised of this plan. Bartholomew de Olmedo, chaplain to his armament, having received from a monk secret information of the whole, informed Cortes, and he at once prepared to meet the danger. The two officers whom he most feared as being ready to assist Pedro Barba, were Velasquez de Leon, a relation of the Governor of Cuba, and Diego de Ordaz, whose conduct, notwithstanding what had passed at Trinidad, was sometimes suspicious. Velasquez de Leon was a frank, warm-hearted, and ambitious young man, and Cortes easily won him to his cause by telling him of the glory that was before him, and the danger of any delay to the expedition. As to Ordaz, he determined to get him out of the way for a time, and therefore sent him to Guaniguanico, near Cape Antonio, that he might get further supplies of provisions for the voyage. As soon as Ordaz had left, Cortes assembled all his men. He now told them of the meanness and jealousy of Velasquez, in trying to take the command from him for no cause whatever. Then he spoke of the foolish order for delaying an expedition in which they were all so eager to embark, and in which they were all to earn so much glory,—an order he declared to be the more outrageous, because they had all spent their own private means in equipping for the enterprise. The men were greatly aroused. They were attached to Cortes, and they knew his worth as their leader. They begged that he would never give up the command, and promised that they would risk their lives anywhere, wherever he might lead. This was precisely what Cortes desired. He declared that he would be their leader, and that he would guide them to that rich and beautiful country for which they were panting—a country in which every man should find wealth and honor. He then took an oath that he would never forsake such faithful and trusty followers. The air now rang with their shouts. While some cried out that they would stand by Cortes for ever, others uttered terrible threats against his enemies. He was now fixed in his command; he had the hearts of all his men. They looked upon him as a leader chosen by themselves—their noble and bold friend and companion, who was to lead them on to victory. Pedro Barba at once wrote to Velasquez, telling him that it was impossible to fulfil his orders; and Cortes sent him a second letter, informing him that on the next day he should sail from Havana.

The fleet of Cortes now consisted of eleven vessels, one of which was of one hundred tons, three of seventy, and the rest only open barks. His followers numbered six hundred and seventeen persons. Of these, one hundred and nine were sailors and mechanics; the remainder were to act as soldiers. As to regular soldiers, there were among them all, only sixteen horsemen, thirty musketeers, and thirty-two cross-bowmen; the others were armed only with spears and swords, the use of which they little understood. To add somewhat to their strength, however, there were on board the fleet “ten cannons and four falconets.” Instead of shields or coats of mail to defend them from such enemies as they should meet, which articles would have proved heavy in a warm climate, their leader had supplied them all with jackets quilted with cotton. This was the whole force, with which Cortes was now prepared to seek and subdue the new continent.

To urge his followers onward the more, Cortes mingled with their dreams of glory, the thought that they were to extend the religion of our blessed Saviour. The spirit of the age, and the religion in which they had been trained, allowed this idea, and they really supposed that their warlike expedition, among other things, was to spread the gospel of peace. Strange thought, yet it was theirs! The Spaniards therefore hailed with enthusiasm the banner which Cortes raised over them. It was a standard of velvet, richly embroidered with gold, bearing the royal arms and a large cross, together with this motto: “Companions, let us follow the cross, for under this guidance we shall conquer.”

CHAPTER II.

CORTES having divided his men into eleven companies, and placed captains over them,[1] they all embarked, and on the 10th of February set sail from Havana. Ere long they came near the island Cozumel. The frightened inhabitants, seeing the approach of the fleet, fled from the shores. Nor were they idly frightened, for they soon felt the hands of the plunderers. Pedro de Alvarado’s company was the first to land, and seeing in one of the temples an idol, beautifully adorned with gold, they instantly stripped it, and seized two or three of the natives Cortes, seeing that such rashness would at once ruin his prospects, immediately rebuked Alvarado, and caused him to release the prisoners and deliver up the ornaments. Upon this the natives lost some of their fears, and mingled freely with the new-comers.

Cortes now observed that the natives frequently used the word Castillano, and this led to an important discovery. He knew that the word must have been learned of some Spaniard, and therefore supposed that one or more of his countrymen might be on the island. After a long search, he succeeded in finding one man, and the poor fellow was happy indeed when they discovered him, for he had gone through many sorrows. He was completely black, was covered only with a few rags thrown loosely over his shoulders and around his waist, and had grown to be, in his manners, almost an Indian. Upon his back he carried a small bundle, in which, among other trifles that he had, were some pieces of a prayer-book. It was with great difficulty that he told his story to his countrymen, for he had almost lost the use of his native tongue. His name (he said) was Geronimo de Aguilar. He was a native of Ecija, and had received holy orders. Eight years before, he had been wrecked on a voyage from Darien to Hispaniola. He and his companions tried to save themselves in a boat, but storms had driven them upon the coast of Cozumel, where they were seized by the natives and reduced to slavery. Some of them had at length been sacrificed, and many had died of hard labor. He had at last, by the providence of God, found a friend in one of the Caciques, who took care of him and treated him with kindness. Of all his companions, one only remained beside himself, and he had joined the Indians and become one of their tribe. Cortes immediately took this poor fellow into his service, and, as it turned out, he proved a great help in acting as an interpreter between his countrymen and the Indians.

On the fourth of March the fleet left Cozumel and moved towards the river Tabasco. At this place Cortes expected a friendly meeting with the natives, inasmuch as Grijalva had there been treated very kindly. In this he was disappointed. It seems that these friendly people had been reproached by the neighboring tribes, for their kind reception of Grijalva. And now, when Cortes came in sight, instead of friends he found enemies. Every thing seemed warlike. He saw canoes moving about filled with warriors, and thousands of men assembled on the shore to oppose him. Cortes at once knew that he was to have a struggle, but, desirous of peace if possible, he requested of the people through Aguilar, that he might meet their chiefs. This they promptly refused, at the same time making dreadful threats against the Spaniards. Cortes made no farther attempt to treat with them, but determined at once to disembark near the town, and meet the difficulty. Accordingly, he kept on his course up the river. The natives, seeing this movement, flocked to the spot where they supposed he would land. Crowds soon covered the banks of the river in that quarter, shouting and making a tremendous noise with their trumpets and drums. Nevertheless, the fleet cast anchor, and the landing commenced. Clouds of arrows were now poured in upon them from the land, while the warriors in their canoes opposed them fiercely with their lances. But the resolute Spaniards were not to be driven back. Through the water and mud, they fought their way in spite of numbers, and reached the bank. This was no sooner done, than Cortes placed himself at the head of his men, and made a tremendous attack upon the natives, which soon scattered them. He now reviewed his troops, and found that fourteen of his followers had been wounded. He resolved, therefore, not to pursue the enemy, but fixed his camp for the night, and posted his sentinels around to prevent any surprise.

In the mean time, the news of their defeat was carried through the country by the Indians, and they rallied in strong numbers for another struggle upon the great plain of Ceutla. Cortes had expected this, and prepared himself to meet it. His horses (thirteen only in number) were brought ashore, the best riders were mounted upon them, and he himself took the command of this little troop of cavalry. His other troops (the infantry and artillery) were trusted to the command of Ordaz and Mesa. Matters being thus arranged, he pushed forward to meet the enemy. Ere long, they came in sight of them. The whole plain was covered with the multitude, and a hideous looking multitude it was. With their faces daubed with red and black paint, and armed with their shields, lances, bows, and slings, they were moving about, making ready for the battle; while here and there the Spaniards marked the chiefs, with tufts of feathers on their heads, who seemed to be urging them on. The woods rang with the noise of their drums and trumpets. Sweeping round the plain with his horsemen, Cortes managed to pass unseen to the rear of the enemy, so as to prevent any retreat, while his other troops were to move directly forward and attack them in front. The Indians, however, did not wait for their attack. Thinking the first blow the best, they gave it themselves. As soon as they saw them, they pressed forward and let fly a tremendous volley of arrows. The Spaniards for a moment fell back; one man was killed, and twenty wounded. The artillery troops now rushed forward, and bringing their guns to bear, literally raked down the Indians. Notwithstanding this, the Indians waged the light furiously and fearlessly, and the chances of war were in their favor, until Cortes showed himself. The plain was smooth, and he with his horsemen swept over it, carrying everything before them. This decided the day. The frightened Indians now saw that resistance was idle; they looked upon horse and rider as one tremendous monster; and such as could, fled for the woods and marshes. Eight hundred of their number were left dead on the field, while two Spaniards only had been killed.

This was their second defeat, and now they were ready to submit. Fifteen men, with their faces painted black in sign of sorrow, were soon sent to the Spanish camp, bearing presents of fowls, corn, and roasted fish. Cortes received them with so much kindness, that on the next day thirty of the chief warriors came forward and begged the privilege of burying their dead. This favor Cortes readily granted. He feared, however, that these people were treacherous, and in a little time might rally again to oppose him. As soon, therefore, as the melancholy duty of burying the dead was ended, he assembled the people before him, and threatened awful vengeance if they attempted any further opposition. To frighten them the more, he caused one of the cannons to be discharged, and then his best-trained horses and riders were brought out, and various terrifying feats performed before them. The frightened natives now looked upon the Spaniards with amazement and reverence, and at once promised fidelity to the Spanish king. Not satisfied with professions of love, they brought to Cortes many strange presents, such as toys of gold, made to look like dogs, lizards, ducks, and other animals; and to prove their friendship with a crowning gift, they presented to him twenty of their women.

This last was the most valuable present, for among these women there was one who afterwards became known under the name of Doña Marina, and proved a great help to Cortes. She was a female of high rank among her countrymen—the daughter of a cacique or prince, who held his dominions subject to the Emperor of Mexico. Unhappily for her, her father died while she was an infant. Her mother afterwards married again, and having a son by her new husband, learned to despise her daughter. Her feelings were so bitter towards the child, that she determined to cheat her of her inheritance, that she might gain it for the boy. Accordingly, she secretly gave her away to some merchants of Xicallanco, and at the same time spread the story far and wide that the child was dead. The merchants to whom she was given sold her to one of the chiefs of Tabasco, and the chief now presented her to Cortes. This woman, as you will see, proved of great service in two ways. First, she acted as an interpreter: understanding the Mexican language and the Maja tongue also, which Aguilar understood, she was able to interpret between the Spaniards and Mexicans. Then, too, she understood the manners, habits, and prejudices of the natives, and was enabled to help Cortes to many advantages, and to guard him against many dangers—all which she did cheerfully, for she soon formed a strong attachment for the Spanish leader.

Having thus brought the natives to his own terms, Cortes prepared to leave Tabasco. He caused his men (together with the Indians, who cheerfully assisted) to erect upon the plain of Ceutla a large cross made of the Cieba-tree, as a memorial of his victory; and then Palm Sunday being at hand, he brought all the natives of the neighborhood together to worship around the cross with Father Olmedo. The Spaniards say, that many of these poor men were at once made converts to Christianity, and baptized by Olmedo; but this can hardly be believed. Many were baptized, but probably not one of them knew what he was doing. They readily obeyed any wish of the Spaniards, and one wish was that they should be baptized. At all events, in the evening they parted good friends to their conquerors, the Indians promising a “perpetual love;” and the next morning the fleet set sail for the harbor of San Juan de Ulua.

Early in April,[2] they reached that harbor. Scarcely had they dropped their anchors and hoisted their standard, when Cortes saw two large canoes, full of people, coming towards the fleet. Two of these people seemed to be persons of note, and, without any signs of fear, came on board the principal vessel. They spoke to Cortes in a friendly way, and by means of Aguilar and Doña Marina, he was able to understand them. They were messengers (they said) from the chief who was trusted with the command of that province by the great Emperor Montezuma, and were sent to learn what had brought Cortes to their country, and also to offer any assistance they could render him for prosecuting his voyage. Cortes, in his turn, received them very kindly, assuring them that he himself was the subject of a mighty king, and had a message of great importance to deliver to their sovereign, which would greatly help their country; and that he had towards them no thoughts but those of peace and friendship. At his invitation, they then refreshed themselves by eating, and after this they were sent back to the chief, loaded with quantities of toys as presents. The chief and his people were now greatly delighted. Far from opposing his landing, they were ready to aid him in making it, and when he ordered his men to erect their huts upon the shore, in this also they cheerfully assisted. After a little time, a number came, bringing supplies of bread, fowls, and fruit, with a promise that the governor of the province would shortly visit him.

Accordingly, on the next day, their chief, whose name was Teutchlile, in company with Quitlalpitoc, another chief, came to the Spanish camp with a great train of followers. Cortes received them with great respect, and invited them to eat with him. This being over, he informed Teutchlile that he was a subject to Don Carlos, the greatest monarch of the world, and at his desire had come to their country with an important message to their sovereign; that the message was such a one that he could deliver it to no person except the Emperor himself, and therefore hoped he might immediately be allowed to see him. This greatly startled the two chiefs. They knew the fears and apprehensions of Montezuma since the appearance of strangers upon the coast, and that it would be impossible to obtain the privilege which Cortes sought,—and yet they were afraid to rouse the Spaniard by a refusal. Hoping to satisfy him in another way, Teutchlile at once ordered certain rich presents to be brought forward, which he declared that Montezuma had sent, in the hope that Cortes would receive them. These consisted of a quantity of fine cotton garments, plumes of many different colors, and a variety of toys made of gold. The poor ignorant Indian did not know that the demand of Cortes was made only that he might reach the heart of their country, and that the sight of his rich presents would only excite him the more, and make him the more determined to carry out his purpose. Cortes received his presents in a friendly way, and in return gave them, as presents for Montezuma, some artificial diamonds, a richly-carved arm-chair, and a crimson cap adorned with a golden medal of Saint George; and, with this, demanded more earnestly that he might be taken to the Emperor to deliver his message.

While all this was going on, some of the followers of Teutchlile were busy in painting upon pieces of white cotton, pictures of the strangers, with their ships, horses, and cannon. Cortes, hearing that these pictures were to be taken to Montezuma, that he might learn something of his new visiters, determined that with them the painters should carry such a report as should terrify the Emperor. Accordingly, he immediately ordered his troops to form in battle array, and with great skill they went through their military exercises. Then his horsemen were brought forward, and the Mexicans stood speechless as they looked at their fierce and wonderful performances. Next the cannon were discharged, and now they were completely overcome: some fled, while others fell flat on their faces. It was with great difficulty that Cortes, after a while, succeeded in calming their fears, and bringing them all again around him.

Cortes now again urged his demand, and at length, with fair promises that his message and presents should be delivered to Montezuma, and that he should soon have an answer, Teutchlile with his train was leaving the camp, when suddenly he saw a helmet which he greatly desired. It looked (as he said) like the helmet that adorned the head of Huitzilopochtli, their god of war, and begged that he might present it to the Emperor. This request Cortes readily granted, and they all departed. This last gift, as you will see, proved to be a most unfortunate present.

Before these messages reached Montezuma, he had been greatly alarmed by rumors as to these strangers. It seems that the Mexican Empire was managed with great system in every way. Along the principal roads, couriers were placed at certain distances, and through them news was rapidly carried from one end to the other of the empire. In this way he had gathered strange stories of Cortes and his followers. At length the messengers arrived. Montezuma was pleased with the presents, but their pictures, together with their stories and the helmet, greatly increased his alarm. The helmet called up in his heart the saddest forebodings. His head was full of superstitions, and he saw in this helmet something which told him of the end of his empire. There was a strange tradition among the Mexicans at this time, “that Quetzalcoatl, the god of the air, had disappeared a long time ago, promising to return after a certain time to rule over the people of Mexico.”[3] Montezuma fancied that these Spaniards in their armor were like the god of the air, and trembled for his authority. To the demand of Cortes he gave a positive refusal, and yet, afraid to provoke him, to lessen his disappointment, and secure his friendship, he determined upon sending him some very rich presents. Accordingly, in less than a week, Teutchlile and his followers again reached the Spanish camp, laden with these presents.

As they came into the presence of Cortes now, in token of respect they touched the earth with their fingers, and then kissed them. Their splendid presents were then brought forward. There were cloths of cotton worked so finely that they resembled silk, beautiful pictures made of different colored feathers, various toys of animals made of gold, together with collars and bracelets of the same precious metal, pearls and precious stones, and, best of all in the eyes of the Spaniards, was an enormous plate of gold made in the form of a circle, to represent the Mexican age of fifty years, having the sun in the centre.[4] Cortes received these with great delight, and then demanded when he should see the Emperor. The messengers, in as mild a way as possible, informed him that Montezuma was not disposed to see him at his court; that he feared the Mexicans would be excited if strange soldiers were seen in the capital of the empire, and moreover that he thought it dangerous for Cortes to attempt to reach him, inasmuch as he would have to pass through barren deserts, meeting many hostile tribes. Cortes was now more decided than ever. He insisted upon being taken immediately to the emperor, declaring that he would never leave their country, until he had faithfully delivered the message of his master Don Carlos.

The messengers were now in a worse condition than before. They had seen Montezuma’s fears and they now saw Cortes’ resolution. Afraid to offend either party, they at last prevailed upon Cortes to remain with his men where he was, until they should bring him a farther message from Montezuma.

Reaching the capital again, they found the Emperor in the same fearful state of mind, and his fears became greater when he learned how Cortes persisted in his demand. It seems strange, that this great monarch should have been so much startled by the appearance of a handful of strangers in his kingdom. His dominions were two hundred leagues from north to south, and five hundred from east to west; they were covered by a numerous and warlike race of men, and he himself had almost the complete control of his people. Often had he led them on to victory, until his name had come to be a protection to friends and a terror to enemies, and had he at once marched against the Spaniards he might readily have crushed them. But the truth is, he was a slave to superstitious fears, and, like most men frightened in this way, the longer he looked at danger, the greater it seemed to be. The poor man’s head was filled with old traditions, and prophecies, and strange dreams, and everything seemed to tell him that the end of his great empire was at hand. When the messengers told him that Cortes still insisted on seeing him, he was provoked as well as frightened at his boldness. In a storm of passion, he swore that the Spaniards should never leave his country; that he would seize them all, and sacrifice them to the gods—then his fears mastered him, and he gave up all thought of attacking them. Thus wavering between anger and fear, he did not know what to do, and was hardly fit to attempt anything. At length, he despatched his messengers, with positive orders to Cortes to leave his country immediately, while at the same time his fears prompted him to load these same messengers, with rich presents once more for the Spanish chief.

CHAPTER III.

WHEN Teutchlile again reached the Spanish camp, Cortes was in the midst of difficulties with his own men. Notwithstanding his great popularity, it seems there were some few in his army who were friends to Velasquez, and these watched all his movements very closely. They had noticed that in all his orders, and especially in taking possession of the island Cozumel, the name of Velasquez was not even once mentioned, and they now began to beat up friends among the men, declaring that Cortes was selfishly ambitious, thinking only of himself, and seeking his own glory. Dissatisfied themselves, they magnified every little trouble, to make the men discontented also with their leader. The spot where the camp was pitched was sandy, and swarmed with musquitoes, and this was spoken of. The provisions were becoming scanty—the bread was spoiled—the bacon was rotting—and they alarmed the men with the fear of starvation. This scarcity of food Cortes had himself noticed, and had proposed to seize on the strong town of Chiahuitzla, where they would find supplies. This they complained of, saying that it was risking their lives for nothing, that they were but a small band, already weakened by disease and fatigue, and could hope for no success in such an undertaking. The spirit of discontent was thus beginning to run high, when the messenger arrived with positive orders from Montezuma that the strangers should leave his country. Cortes received this message with great calmness, and tried to frighten the messenger, but Teutchlile only treated him with scorn, and left the camp very angry.

Now the murmurs among the discontented became louder. They looked upon the message of Montezuma as a declaration of war against them, and openly declared they were not able to meet it. Diego de Ordaz, their principal leader, was chosen to go before Cortes in their name, to tell him of the madness of remaining in the country, and that they were determined to return to Cuba.

Cortes received this also with great coolness, and at once ordered his troops to prepare for their return. But the truth is, that as these difficulties had been increasing, he had prepared himself to overcome them. He knew that he had certain strong friends around him. These were Portocarrero, Sandoval, Alvarado, Escalante, Olid, Lugo, and Bernal Diaz, and to these he had spoken plainly telling them of the danger that threatened the expedition, and they had spoken to many of the men. These now came forward and declared that they could never think of returning; that they had spent all their means, and left every comfort to embark in the enterprise, and that it was cruelty to them to turn back merely because some of the men were too cowardly to go on. They called on their commander to lead them on to victory, since they were ready to follow, and to let all who were not bold enough for the adventure, return to the Governor of Cuba. This was precisely what Cortes desired and expected. In reply, he declared that he was ready and anxious to remain, and had proposed a return homeward, only because he supposed it was the desire of his followers; that now he was delighted to find he had mistaken their wishes. Since they had shown the fearless feeling of true Spaniards, he was ready to lead them on, and should try to prove himself a proper commander for such brave adventurers. These words of Cortes had a wonderful effect upon the army.

Still his plan was not yet completed. As the friends of Velasquez thought that his authority was slighted, Cortes determined that he would make himself in every way independent of that authority. For this purpose, he now, with great solemnity, commenced a settlement in the country, giving to the new colony the name of Villa Rica de la Vera Cruz.[5] The men were all assembled next, to choose officers for the new colony; and, as Cortes expected, the authority was given to Portocarrero, Alvarado, and Olid, three of his principal friends. As soon as these officers met in council, he came before them. He began by telling them that they were intrusted with great powers for the good of the settlement, and that he should be always ready to support them; and that since they were the chosen officers of the people, he could not think it right or proper that he should any longer keep the command which was given to him by Velasquez. He had come, therefore, to deliver up his commission to them, and was ready to take his place in the army as a common soldier. With this he left them.

He had no sooner departed, than the three officers elected him to the command of the army, as well as to the chief management of the colony. Then, to secure the good feelings of the men, the whole army was at once assembled, and they told them what they had done. All the former success of Cortes was now set forth before them, together with his bravery and generosity, and the bright prospects before all those who should follow such a leader. The men were greatly excited. They vowed their attachment to Cortes, and took an oath to stand by him at all hazards. Some few still held back, but they were brought over by presents and promises. Now the ringleaders, Diego de Ordaz, Velasquez de Leon, Escobar, and Escudero, were more angry than ever, and spoke more loudly against Cortes, in spite of all the numbers in his favor. To stop this, he instantly caused these men to be seized and fastened with fetters. In a few days they were set free, and Cortes offered to send them back to Cuba; but they chose rather to remain with him now. Their discontent seemed at an end, and all was again quiet and peaceable. Thus Cortes had managed to be more firmly fixed than ever in the hearts of his companions. His difficulties had only aided him.

As they still felt the want of food, Alvarado was now sent with a hundred men to scour the neighboring country, and, if possible, obtain supplies. In a little time, he returned with good news, but he and his men had been startled by some things which they saw. They had passed through certain villages, where there was abundance of food, and in one had entered one of the temples of the natives. There, to their great horror, they found the bleeding bodies of men and boys who had just been sacrificed, for the knife lay reeking with blood beside them. It was impossible for him to learn anything from most of the natives whom he saw, for they fled at the sight of him. He had met only one party who seemed friendly, and these were laden with provisions, and seemed to be going towards the Spanish camp. In a short time, this party came in with their supplies, and presented themselves before Cortes as messengers from the Cacique of Chempoalla, with a warm invitation from the Cacique that the strangers would visit him.

Cortes received them kindly, but doubted at first as to accepting this invitation, fearing there was treachery in it. He asked the messengers many questions, and at length discovered that their Cacique, though subject to the Emperor of Mexico, was no friend to Montezuma. This was enough to bring him to a conclusion, for he at once saw what advantage he might make of it. He therefore dismissed them, thanking the Cacique for his kindness, and promising that he would soon come and see him.

The spot where the settlement was begun was not a good one, and Cortes only waited for the arrival of Francisco de Montejo, whom he had sent in search of a better, to keep his promise with the Chempoallans. At the end of twelve days he came back, reporting that he had found a place called Quiabislan, with a fine harbor and a fertile soil. Cortes determined at once to remove his settlement there, and as Chempoalla lay in the way to this place, he was soon ready for his departure. When the Spaniards reached Chempoalla, they were surprised and pleased to see its large houses and wide streets lined with beautiful trees. The meeting was very friendly between the Cacique and the Spanish chief. The Cacique came forward with his principal men, all dressed in rich mantles of fine cotton, adorned with gold, and Cortes at once embraced him. He immediately began to complain of the cruelty and oppression of Montezuma, and expressed great joy that the Spaniards had arrived. Cortes at once saw that the poor man deserved and needed protection, and therefore, weak as he was with his little band, he offered himself as his protector. It was the desire of the Emperor Don Carlos whom he served (he said), that he should protect the weak, and free all who were oppressed; that he saw that his wrongs were many under the cruel tyrant Montezuma, and in a little time he would see that they were ended. With this promise he left the Chempoallans greatly delighted, and pushed on to Quiabislan.

He found this place to be just what Montejo had described it, and immediately marked out the ground for making the settlement. Then he led the way in the work, carrying materials and digging the ground for the foundation. His officers and men followed his example, the Indians readily assisted, and in a little time, the settlement was quite a comfortable place. While these things were going on, the Caciques of Quiabislan and Chempoalla frequently visited him, and talked of nothing but the tyranny and oppression of the Mexican Emperor. They had suffered much themselves, but were particularly bitter against Montezuma, on account of his late cruelties in the territories of the Totonacas, where they declared multitudes of men had been sacrificed by him. While they were thus one day talking with him, the news arrived that the tax-gatherers of Montezuma had come to the province to receive the annual tax. Next came a summons from these officers to the Caciques, calling upon them instantly to deliver up twenty of their men and women, to be offered as a sacrifice for their guilt in entertaining the strangers, contrary to the positive commands of Montezuma. The poor frightened Caciques were afraid to disobey the command, and thereby call down upon themselves the wrath of the Emperor. And yet they trembled at the thought of obedience. Cortes at once relieved them. He ordered his own men instantly to seize the tax-gatherers, and then issued his proclamation that no taxes should ever afterward be paid to Montezuma. The cowardly Caciques were now made strong by his boldness. In their rage against Montezuma, they declared that his collectors should be sacrificed to the gods, and but for Cortes it would have been done. He had to place a guard of his own soldiers around them to protect them.

The position of these Caciques was now dangerous enough. They knew the power and dreaded the wrath of the great Emperor Montezuma. His authority had been defied in their dominions, and they knew the consequence. They were themselves startled at the boldness of the Spaniards, for never before had they seen the power of their Emperor resisted. Indeed, they looked upon the strangers as supernatural beings, and gave them the name of Teules, a title which was bestowed upon their idols. Yet they rejoiced while they trembled, and knowing that there was no escape for them except through the Spaniards, they sought their friendship more earnestly than ever. Cortes quieted their fears as well as he could, by promising them his protection, and they in their turn swore fidelity to the Spanish king, declaring that they were no longer the subjects of Montezuma. The Totonacas, who smarted perhaps most under his cruelty, were the fiercest now in their opposition; but the three tribes, all with one accord, solemnly declared that they would follow Cortes in his expedition.

His strength was now somewhat increased, but very soon by his management he made friends of a fourth tribe. These were the people of Cincapacinga. It seems that the Cacique of Chempoalla had a bitter feeling towards these people, because (as he said) of certain outrages committed by the garrison there, and he urged Cortes to march against their town. The Spanish chief accordingly set out upon his march, but as he came near he learned from the Cincapacingas another story. Eight of the principal men came forward in great sorrow, entreating him not to molest them, declaring that the Chempoallans hated them on account of some old disputes about the boundaries of their territories. Cortes, anxious to make as many friends as possible, ordered that the people should be undisturbed, and that their town should not be plundered. Then he brought the unfriendly Caciques together before him, and persuaded them in his presence to come to terms of peace. Their quarrel was settled, and he had new friends.