ARTES
1837
SCIENTIA
LIBRARY
VERITAS
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
TEEBOR
QUERIS PENINSULAM AMⱭNAN`
CIRCUMSPICE
THIS BOOK
FORMS PART OF THE
ORIGINAL LIBRARY
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
BOUGHT IN EUROPE
1838 TO 1839
BY
ASA GRAY
--
=
ང་ཆེན་པ
1
P
1230
S683
1753
;
1
2-228
Werempe
THE
HISTORY
OF THE
CONQUEST
O F
MEXICO
BY THE
SPANIARDS.
Tranflated from the Original SPANISH of
Don
ANTONIO DE SOLIS,
SOLIS, Rhade regra
Secretary and Hiftoriographer to His Catholick Majefty,
By THOMAS TOWNSEND, Efq;
The whole Tranflation Reviſed and Corrected
By NATHANAEL HOOKE, Efq;
Author of The ROMAN HISTORY, &c.
The THIRD EDITION.
VOL. II.
LONDON :
Printed for H. LINTOT; J. WHISTON and B. WHITE, at Mr.
Boyle's Head, and L. DAVIS, at Lord Bacon's Head, both in
Fleet-fireet; and D. WILSON, at Plato's Head, in the Strand.
MDCCLIII.
[iii]
THE
CONTENTS
OF THE
SECOND VOLUME.
C
BOOK IV.
HAP. I. Motezuma is permitted to ſhew him-
ſelf in publick, going out to his Temples and Re-
creations. Cortes takes fome neceſſary Precautions.
The Spaniards are in Doubt, at this Time, whether
they should overthrow the Idols of Mexico, or wait
for a more proper Occafion,
Page I
CHAP. II. A Confpiracy which was forming against
the Spaniards, by the King of Tezeuco, is difco-
vered; and Motezuma, partly by his own Vigi
lance, and partly by the Advice of Cortes, quells it,
and chaftifes the Author,
A 2
II
CHAP,
iv
The
CONTENTS.
CHAP. III. Motezuma refolves to fend away Cortes
by answering his Embaſy. He affembles his Nobles,
and gives Orders, That the King of Spain fhould
be acknowledged for Succeffor of that Empire, de-
termining to obey him, and to pay him Tribute,
as Defcendant from their firft Conqueror, Page 21
CHAP. IV. The Gold and Jewels defigned for the
Prefent, delivered into the Poffeffion of Cortes;
Motezuma refolutely tells him, that he must think
of bis Departure, which he endeavours to delay.
Advice brought of the Arrival of a Squadron of
Spanish Ships upon the Coast,
30
CHAP. V. An Account of the Preparations made by
Diego Velasquez for the Deftruction of Hernan
Cortes: The Army and Fleet which he fent against
bim, under the Command of Pamphilo de Nar-
vaez: His Arrival upon the Coast of New Spain,
and bis fruitless Attempt to reduce the Spaniards of
Vera-Cruz,
38
CHAP. VI. The Precautions of Hernan Cortes to
avoid a Rupture. He makes Overtures of Peace,
which are rejected by Narvaez, who on the con-
trary proclaims War, and feizes the Perfon of the
Licentiate Lucas Vafquez de Ayllon,
47
CHAP. VII. Motezuma continues his good Offices
towards Cortes and his Spaniards. The Altera-
tion which fome attribute to the Practices of Nar-
vaez, looked upon as fictitious and improbable.
Cortes refolves to depart, and executes that Refolu-
tion, leaving a Part of his Force in Mexico, 58
CHAP. VIII. Hernan Cortes directs his March to-
wards Zempoala. Is difappointed of the Succours
which he expected from Tlafcala. Continues his
March as far as Matalequita; from whence be
again makes Overtures of Peace, and, with new
Provocation, declares War,
69
CHAP.
The
CONTENTS.
CHAP. IX.
Hernan Cortes continues his March
till within a League of Zempoala. Pamphilo de
Narvaez takes the Field with his Troops. Is
obliged to retire by the Badness of the Weather.
Cortes refolves to attack him in his Quarters,
Page 78
CHAP. X. Hernan Cortes arrives at Zempoala,
where he finds Oppofition. He obtains the Victory,
and takes Narvaez Prisoner, whofe Troops be
obliges to ferve under his Banner,
86
CHAP. XI. Cortes reduces the Cavalry of Narvaez,
which kept the Field. He receives Information that
the Mexicans had taken up Arms against the Spa-
niards which he had left with Motezuma. He
marches with his Army to Mexico, and enters
that City without Oppofition,
96
CHAP. XII. The Motives which induced the Mexi-
cans to take up Arms. Diego de Ordaz, with
fome Companies of Men, is fent to make Discoveries
in the City. Falls into an Ambush the Revolters
bad laid for him, upon which Cortes determines to
profecute the War,
106
CHAP. XIII. The Mexicans affault the Spaniſh
Quarters, and are repulfed. "Cortes makes two
Sallies, and though the Enemy are both Times de-
feated, and put to Flight with grect Slaughter, yet
be doubts his being able to reduce them,
CHAP. XIV.
115
Motezuma exhorts Cortes to retire
from Mexico, which he offers to do as foon as the
Seditious have laid down their Arms. They return
to attempt another Affault. Motezuma Speaks to
them from the Wall, and is wounded, lofing all
Hopes of reducing them,
CHAP. XV. Motezuma dies of his Wounds, obfti-
nately refuſing to receive Baptifm. Cortes fends
his Body to the Mexicans, who celebrate his Ob-
fequies. His perfonal Qualities and Character, 133
124
CHAP.
vi
The CONTENTS.
CHAP. XVI. The Mexicans return to beſiege the
Spaniſh Quarters. Cortes makes a Sally. Gains
a Temple where the Enemy was lodged. Defeats
and puts them to Flight. Does confiderable Da-
mage to the City, with a Deſign to terrify them, in
order to make his Retreat,
Page 142
CHAP. XVII. The Mexicans propofe Peace, but
with a View of diftreffing the Spaniards by Want
of Provifions. Their Difingenuity is difcovered.
Cortes holds a Confultation with his Officers, and
it is refolved to leave Mexico that Night,
CHAP. XVIII. The Spaniards march out privately.
At the Entrance of the Caufey are difcovered by the
Indians, who attack them with their whole Power
both by Land and Water; they get clear at last with
great Difficulty, and confiderable Lofs, and reach
the Town of Tacuba,
152
160
CHAP. XIX. Cortes marches the Road towards
Tlaſcala. Some Troops from the circumjacent Towns
follow the Army at a Distance, till being joined by
the Mexicans, who likewife purſue him, they attack
his Rear, and oblige him to take Refuge in a Temple,
168
CHAP. XX. The Spaniards continue their Retreat.
They undergo great Fatigue and Difficulties. The
Army reaches the Valley of Otumba, where, in a
pitched Battle, the whole Power of Mexico is ut-
terly defeated,
178
BOOK
V.
CH
HAP. I. The Army marches into the Province
of Tlafcala, and quarters in Gualipar; the Ca-
ziques and Senators come to vifit Cortes: They cele-
brate his Entry into their City with publick Re-
joicings;
The
CONTENTS.
vii
joicings; and Cortes, by fresh Experience, finds
be bad fecured the Affections of thofe People. Page
Page 190
205
CHAP. II. An Account comes, that the Province of
Tepeaca had taken up Arms. Ambaffadors arrive
at Tlafcala from Mexico. A Confpiracy, carried
on by Xicotencal the Younger, against the Spani-
ards, is difcovered,
198
CHAP. III. Cortes marches into the Province of
Tepeaca, where he defeats the Rebels; who, fup-
ported by the Mexicans, offered Battel to the
Spaniards. He afterwards takes their City, which
be fortifies, and calls by the Name of Segura de
la Frontera,
CHAP. IV. Hernan Cortes fends feveral Captains
to reduce ſome rebellious Towns, and goes himſelf
to Guacachula against an Army of Mexicans
drawn together to defend their Frontiers, 213
CHAP. V. Hernan Cortes makes fome Preparations
for the Enterprize of Mexico; he accidentally
receives a Reinforcement of Spaniards, returns to
Tlafcala, and finds Magifcatzin dead.
CHAP. VI. A freſh Succour of Spaniſh Soldiers ar-
rives at the Army. The Men who came with Nar-
vaez are importunate for their Difcharge, and Re-
turn to Cuba. Hernan Cortes draws up a fecond
Relation of his Expedition, and dispatches new En-
voys to the Emperor Charles V.
230
CHAP. VII. The Envoys of Hernan Cortes arrive
in Spain, and paſs on to Medellin, where they con-
tinue till the Troubles of the Kingdom are over;
after which, they go to the Court, and prevail to
have the Bishop of Burgos fet afide from being a
Judge in the Caufe of Cortes.
222
239
CHAP. VIII. Concludes the Affairs of the precedent
Chapter,
247
CHAP.
viii The CONTENT S.
CHAP. IX. Cortes receives a new Succour of Men
and Ammunition: He mufters his Spanish Troops;
and the Confederates do the like, after his Example:
He publishes certain military Orders, and begins his
March, with a Defign to poffefs himself of Te-
Page 254
zeuco,
CHAP. X. The Army marches, and overcomes fome
Difficulties. The King of Tezeuco fends an art-
ful Embally to Cortes; he returns an Answer of
the fame Kind, and thereby gains Admittance into
the City without Refiftance,
262
CHAP. XI. The Army being quartered in Tezeuco,
the Noles come and offer to ferve in it. Cortes re-
ftores the Kingdom to the lawful Succeffor, leaving
the Tyrant without any Hopes to re-establish him-
Self,
269
CHAP. XII. The new King of Tezeuco is bap-
tized with publick Solemnity; Cortes marches
with Part of the Army to poffefs himself of the
City of Iztapalapa, where he stands in Need of
all bis Circumfpection, to prevent falling into an
Ambuſh prepar❜d by the Mexicans,
274
CHAP. XIII. The Province of Chalco and Otum-
ba apply to Cortes for Relief against the Mexi-
cans. He orders Gonzalo de Sandoval and Fran-
cifco de Lugo upon that Expedition; they over-
throw the Enemy, and take fome Prisoners of
Rank, by whofe Means Cortes makes Propofitions
of Peace to the Mexican Emperor,
280
CHAP. XIV. Gonzalo de Sandoval conducts the
Brigantines to Tezeuco. Whilst they are finishing,
Hernan Cortes marches out with Part of his Army
to view the Borders of the Lake,
286
CHAP. XV. Hernan Cortes marches to Yalcotan,
where he meets with Refiftance; be overcomes that
Difficulty, and goes forward with his Army to Ta-
cuba,
2
The CONTENT S.
ix
cuba, and having vanquished the Mexicans in fe-
veral Engagements, makes his Retreat, Page 293
CHAP. XVI. A freſh Succour of Spaniards arrives
at Tezeuco. Sandoval marches to the Relief of
Chalco; defeats the Mexicans twice in the open
Field, and takes the Towns of Guaſtepeque and
Capiſtlan,
301
CHAP. XVII. Cortes marches out of Tezeuco, to
view the Lake on the Side of Suchimilco: He
has two dangerous Engagements with the Enemy,
who had fortified themselves upon the Mountains
of Guaftepeque,
309
CHAP. XVIII. The Army paſſes on to Quatlavaca,
where the Mexicans receive a new Defeat; from
thence to Suchimilco, where Cortes furmounts a
great Difficulty, and is in Danger of being loft,
317
CHAP. XIX. 'A Confpiracy
A Confpiracy of fome Spaniards
against the Life of Cortes, is puniſh'd by the Death
of a Spanish Soldier; and a Sedition of fome Tlaf-
calans, by the Death of Xicotencal,
325
CHAP. XX. The Brigantines are launched, and the
Army divided into three Parts for attacking the
City at the fame time, by the Caufways of Tacuba,
Iztapalapa, and Cuyoacan. Hernan Cortes ad-
vances upon the Lake, and defeats a great Fleet of
Mexican Canoes,
333
CHAP. XXI. Cortes goes to view the three Bodies
of his Troops, as they were posted on the different
Caufways of Cuyoacan, Iztapalapa, and Tacuba,
and finds that in each Place they had Occafion for
the Affiftance of the Brigantines; whereupon he
leaves four with Gonzalo de Sandoval, four with
Pedro de Alvarado, and retires himself to Cuyoa-
can with the other five,
CHAP. XXII. The Mexicans make Uſe of various
Stratagems for their Defence: They lay an Ambuſ-
VOL. II.
A
340
cade
X
The CONTENT S.
cade of Canoes for the Brigantines. Hernan Cor-
tes receives a confiderable Defeat, and his forced
to retire to Cuyoacan,
Page 348
CHAP. XXIII.
The Mexicans celebrate their Vic-
tory with the Sacrifice of the Spaniſh Prifoners.
Guatimozin terrifies the Confederates, and occafions
many of them to forfake Cortes; but they return
in greater Numbers, and it is refolved to make
Lodgments within the City,
357
CHAP. XXIV. Cortes carries on his three Attacks
at once. The whole Army joins in the great Square
of Mexico, called Tlateleuco. Guatimozin retires
to the fartheft Part of the City. The Mexi-
cans make ſeveral Efforts, and ufe divers Strata-
gems, to divert the Spaniards,
365
CHAP. XXV. The Mexicans attempt to make their
Retreat by the Lake. They engage the Brigantines
with their Canoes, in order to facilitate Guati-
mozin's Efcape. He is made Prifoner, and the
City furrenders,
377
THE
T
?
[1]
THE
HISTORY
Of the CONQUEST of
MEXICO, or NEW SPAIN.
BOOK IV.
CHAP. I.
Motezuma is permitted to fhew himſelf in pub-
lick, going out to his Temples and Recrea-
tions. Cortes takes fome neceffary Precau-
tions. The Spaniards are in Doubt, at this
Time, whether they should overthrow the Idols
of Mexico, or wait for a more proper Occa-
fion.
F
ROM this Day forward Motezuma remained
a voluntary Prifoner of the Spaniards, and
was beloved of all for his Courteſy and Li-
berality. His own Servants and Attendants had
been hitherto unacquainted with his Gentleneſs and
VOL. II.
B
Moderation,
2
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Moderation, as being Virtues he had acquired by
his Converſation with Strangers, and far from his
own natural Temper. He very often confirmed the
Sincerity of his Mind, both by Words and Actions:
And when he thought he had fecured and merited
the Confidence of Cortes, he refolved to try him by
afking his Permiffion to go fometimes to vifit his
Temples. He gave his Word that he would return
punctually to his Prifon; for fo he uſed to call it,
when none of his own People were prefent: He
told him, "That he defired now for his own Con-
veniency, and for the Sake of the Spaniards
"themſelves, to fhew himſelf to his Subjects; for
"that they began to furmife, that he was detained
"in that Confinement by Force, feeing the Cauſe
"of his Detention was ceafed by the Puniſhment
"of Qualpopoca; and that it was to be feared fome
"Commotion, more than barely popular, might
"happen, if he did not fpeedily prevent it by this
Mark of his Liberty. Hernan Cortes, fenfible
.
how much he was in the Right, and defirous like-
wife to humour the Mexicans, anſwered freely and
courteouſly, "That he might go when, and where-
"ever he pleaſed, and that he attributed his ma-
*king fuch a Requeſt to the Exceſs of his Good-
"nefs, feeing both himſelf, and all his People,
"were intirely at his Service;" but he accepted
the Promiſe he made him of not changing his Place
of Refidence, as one extremely defirous not to be
deprived of the Honour he had received.
THE Emperor's Purpoſe of vifiting his Temples
cauſed fome Scruples in the General; but to make
the beſt Conditions he could, he obtained of him
to aboliſh all human Sacrifices from that Day, con-
tenting himſelf, with this partial Remedy, fince it
was not yet Time to endeavour a total Reformation
of Abufes; and where we cannot do what is beft
at
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
3
at once, it is Prudence to divide the Difficulty, in
order to overcome it by Degrees. Motezuma con-
fented to this, effectually prohibiting thofe Sacrifices
in all the Temples: And though it may be doubt-
ed, whether that Order was exactly complied with,
yet it is certain, that there was no Breach of it in
publick; and if they ever did perform them, it was
with their Gates fhut, as if they were doing fome-
thing that was criminal.
His firſt Sally was to the principal Temple of
the City, with his accuſtomed Pomp and Atten-
dance: He took ſome Spaniards along with him,
calling them himſelf, by way of Prevention, tọ
avoid the Shame of having them ordered to attend
him either as Guards or Witneffes of his Actions.
The People celebrated this firſt Appearance of their
Sovereign with great Acclamations of Joy; not that
they truly loved him, or that they had forgot the
Oppreffions under which they laboured; but at this
Time Duty got the better of their Inclinations, and
a Crown has its Influence, although it be upon the
Head of a Tyrant. He received their Acclamations
with an Air of Majefty, and was that Day very li-
beral in beſtowing Favours upon his Nobles, and
likewiſe in diſtributing Gifts among the Populace.
He afterwards went up to the Temple, refting on
the Arms of the Priefts; and having complied with
fome of the leaft fcandalous Rites of his Worfhip,
returned to the Quarters, where he again compli-
mented the Spaniards, declaring, "That the Satif-
"faction he had in refiding among them, made
"him no lefs defirous to return, than the Dif
charge of his Promiſe.”
46
He continued to go abroad when he pleaſed,
without any Thing extraordinary happening, fome-
times to the Palace where he kept his Wives, at
other Times to his Temples, and Pleafure-Houfes,
B 2
always
4
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
4
always uſing the Ceremony of aſking Leave of Cor-
tes, or taking him along with him, when what he
went about would decently admit of his Company;
but he never lay a Night out of the Quarters, nor
fo much as once mentioned the Changing of his
Habitation; on the contrary, the Mexicans began to
look upon this Perfeverance of their Emperor as
the Effect of his Love to the Spaniards: So that
now the Minifters and Nobles of the City vifited
Cortes, making uſe of his Intereft to gain their Pre-
tenfions; and all the Spaniards that were more par-
ticularly eſteemed by Cortes, received both Prefents
and Flatteries; the common Method of all Courts
where by Intreaties and Addreffes, thofe Idols called
the Prince's Favourites, are in a Manner worſhip-
ped.
DURING this Tranquillity Cortes did not neglect
thofe Precautions which were thought conducive to
his Security, nor to forward thoſe high Deſigns
which were forming in his Mind, though as yet
without any determinate Object, or knowing whi-
ther the obſcure Flattery of his Hopes would carry
him. Immediately upon the Vacancy of the Go-
vernment of Vera Cruz by the Death of Juan de
Escalante, and when the Ways were cleared from
Danger by the Puniſhment of the Criminals, he
named Captain Gonzalo de Sandoval for that Em-
ployment: And becauſe in the prefent Pofture of
Affairs he would not part with fo ferviceable a
Commander, he fent, in Quality of his Lieutenant,
a certain private Soldier, named Alonjo de Grado, a
Man of Senfe and Ability, but of an unquiet tur-
bulent Spirit, one of thofe who had diftinguished
themſelves in the paft Disturbances. It was be-
lieved he gave him that Employment both to fa-
tisfy him, and to get him out of the Way; but it
was no found Policy to put a Perfon fo little to be
depended
;
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
5
depended on, in a Place that was kept for a Re-
treat, and againſt any Attempts which might be
feared from the Ifle of Cuba. His Prefence in that
Port might have proved a great Inconvenience, if
the Veffels which Diego Velasquez had fet out in
Proſecution of his ancient Claim, had arrived a lit-
tle fooner. But Alonfo de Grado himſelf, by his
own Proceedings, rectified the Error of his Elec-
tion; for in a few Days after, there were fo many
Complaints fent from the Inhabitants, and the
Towns thereabouts, that it was neceffary to bring
him away Friſoner, and to fend the Governor him-
felf.
HERNAN CORTES made ufe of the Opportunity
of theſe Journies to and fro, for the bringing from
Vera-Cruz, fome Cordage, Sails, Nails, and other
Spoils of the Ships which had been bored, with a
Defign to build two Brigantines, that he might
command the Paffage of the Lake; for he could
not put out of his Mind thoſe broken Expreffions
which the Tlafcalans had heard concerning cutting
away the Bridges and ruining the Caufeys. He firſt
introduced this Novelty, by making Motezuma de-
firous to fee the Nature of the large Embarkations
uſed in Spain, and the great Eaſe with which they
moved, the Wind doing the Service of Oars; a
Curiofity which he reprefented not to be compre-
hended without ocular Demonftration, becauſe the
Mexicans were wholly ignorant of the Ufe of Sails;
and the Emperor thought it would be a great Con-
veniency, and redound very much to his Advan-
tage, to have his Mariners inftructed in this Art.
It was not long before all that had been fent for
from Vera-Cruz arrived; and the Building of the
Veffels was begun by fome Artiſts of that Profef-
fion, who had lifted in the Army for Soldiers; the
Carpenters of the City cutting and bringing the
B 3
Timber
6
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
Timber by Motezuma's Order: So that in a few
Days the Brigantines were finiſhed, and the Empe-
ror himſelf refolved to make the firft Trial, em-
barking with the Spaniards, that he might take a
nearer View of the furprizing Curiofity of that Sort
of Navigation.
For this Purpoſe he ordered Preparations for
a great Hunting upon the Water, that he might
have Time enough for his Obfervations: And on
the Day appointed all the Canoes belonging to the
Royal Equipage were early in the Morning upon
the Lake with his whole Family, Retinue, and
Huntſmen. They had augmented the Number of
Rowers, not without a Prefumption that they fhould
gain Credit to the Lightneſs of their Boats, to the
Difgrace of the Spanish Veffels, which in their Opi-
nions were heavy, and difficult to govern; but it
was not long before they were undeceived, for the
Brigantines fet out with Sails and Oars, opportunely
favoured by the Wind, and left the Canoes a long
Way behind, to the great Admiration of the In-
dians. This was a Day of great Diverfion to the
Spaniards, as well for the Novelty and Manner of
Hunting, as for the Coftlinefs and Magnificence of
the Banquet with which they were regaled: And
Motezuma took great Pleaſure in rallying his Row-
ers for their vain Endeavours to come up with the
Brigantines, and gloried in the Victory of the Spa-
niards as his own.
AFTER their Return, the whole City went out in
Shoals to behold thofe floating Houſes, as they
termed them in their Language. The Novelty of
the Thing had its ordinary Effects, and above all,
the Indians admired the Management of the Rud-
der, and the Sails, which, to their Thinking, com-
manded both the Water and the Wind; an Inven-
tion which the moſt judicious among them admir'd
as
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
7
as a Dexterity intirely beyond their Capacity; and
the vulgar, as an Art more than natural, and a Do-
minion over the Elements themfelves. The Refult
of all was, that thofe Brigantines, which were built
with a greater View, were received with Applauſe;
and this prudent Forefight of Cortes had fuch a hap-
py Effect, that he gained great Reputation, by do-
ing what was neceſſary to his own Security.
Ar the fame Time he was laying fuch other
Schemes, as his active Vigilance dictated: He in-
troduced, in Diſcourſe with Motezuma, and his No-
bles who came to vifit him, the Greatness of his.
Sovereign, extolling his Clemency, and aggrandi-
zing his Power; gaining them to his Opinion with
fo much Addrefs, that they began generally to de-
fire the Alliance he propofed, and an eſtabliſhed
Commerce with the Spaniards, as the Intereſt of the
Mexican Monarchy. Fie likewife made fome im-
portant Discoveries by way of Converfation and
pure Curiofity: He informed himſelf very particu-
larly of the Strength and Extent of the Mexican
Empire; of its Provinces, Confines, Mountains,
Rivers, and principal Mines; of the Diſtances of
both Seas, their Qualities, Roads, and Harbours:
And he ſeemed fo far from having the leaft Defign
in Obfervations and Inquifitivenefs, that Motezuma,
for his better Information, and to gratify his Curio-
fity, ordered his Painters, with the Affiftance of
ſkilful People, to draw out all his Dominions on a
Piece of Cloth, like our Maps, which ſhewed him
every Particular that was worth taking Notice of:
He alſo permitted ſome Spaniards to go and take
a View of the moſt celebrated Mines, as likewiſe of
the Ports and Bays which were capable of Shipping.
This Hernan Cortes propofed to him, under Pretext
of carrying a diftinct Relation to his Prince of every
Thing that was remarkable; to which Motezuma
B 4
did
8
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
&
did not only give his Confent, but ordered fome of
his Soldiers to accompany them, and diſpatched
Orders that they fhould have free Admittance, and
be inftructed in whatever they defired to know; a
convincing Sign that he had no Sufpicion, and that
his Tongue and Heart went together.
BUT at this very Juncture, when the Spaniards
had moſt Reaſon to avoid ſtarting any Innovations,
as dangerous to publick Quiet, and the good Un-
derſtanding between them and the Mexicans, our
Hiftorians mention a Refolution of theirs, fo in-
tirely prepofterous, and inconfiftent with the reft of
their Actions, and ſo very unfeaſonable, that we are
inclined to call the Truth of it is Queftion, not-
withſtanding we have no fufficient Reafons to omit
it. Bernal Diaz del Caftillo fays, as does likewiſe
Francifco Lopez de Gomara before him, (agreeing
fometimes in Things leaft probable) That they had
refolved to overthrow all the Idols of Mexico, and
to turn the principal Temple into a Church: That
they fallied out to put in Execution what they had
determined, notwithſtanding Motezuma refifted, and
endeavoured to hinder them: That the Priefts took
up Arms, and the whole City rofe in Defence of
their Gods: That the Conteſt lafted, without com-
ing to Blows, till fuch Time, as for the publick
Quiet, the Idols were fuffered to remain in their
Places; and a Chapel was cleanfed, and an Altar
erected within the aforefaid Temple, where they
placed the Crofs of Chrift, and the Image of his
moſt bleffed Mother; Mafs was fung with great
Solemnity, and the Altar continued many Days; the
very Priefts of the Idols taking care to keep it neat,
and to adorn it. And this Account Antonio de Her-
rera likewiſe gives, but differs from both thofe Au-
thors, by adding fome Circumftances which pafs
the Limits of Embelliſhment, if fuch Rhetorick
may
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
9
may be allowed an Hiſtorian: For he defcribes a
Proceffion of the Spaniards all in Arms, which was
made in order to conduct the holy Images to the
Temple; pens the very Speech which Cortes made,
or rather that which he would perfuade us he made,
before the Crucifix; and recounts a Kind of Miracle
his Devotion produced; taking upon him to ſay,
on what Foundation we know not, that a little after
the Mexicans mutinied upon Account of the Want
of Rain to refreſh their parch'd Fields: That they
came to Cortes in a tumultuous Manner, complain-
ing that their Gods refuſed to fend them any Rain,
becauſe he had introduced ſtrange Deities into their
Temples; and that, to appeafe thofe feditious
People, he promifed them, on the Fart of his
God, a plentiful Shower of Rain within a few
Hours, which Promife Heaven punctually made
good, to the great Admiration of Motezuma and
the whole City.
WE fhall not touch upon the Engagement he laid
himſelf under, by promifing Miracles to Infidels for
Proof of the Truth of F.eligion, which might poffi-
bly have happened through the Vehemence of his
Zeal; nor fhall we wonder at the miraculous Suc-
cefs: For he might likewife have had at that Junc-
ture fome Spark of that lively Faith, which merits
and performs Miracles. But the very Action itſelf
is fo diffonant, fo extremely repugnant to Reaſon,
that it is difficult to believe it, confidering the Wa-
rinefs and Character of Cortes, and the Difpofition
and Learning of Friar Bartolome de Olmedo. But
allowing the Enterprize of overthrowing all the
Idols of Mexico at that Time, and after the Manner
related, to have had the Succefs pretended; (fince
it is fometimes lawful for an Hiftorian to paſs his
Judgment upon the Facts he relates) we find in this
feveral Objections, which oblige us at leaſt to doubt
the
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
the Prudence of fuch a Determination in fo popu-
lous a City, where it might reaſonably be held im-
poffible to effect what was found fo difficult in Co-
zumel. They were upon a good Footing with Mo-
tezuma: All the Security they enjoyed, depended
wholly upon his Favour: He had not given them
the leaft Hopes of admitting the Goſpel; but on
the contrary was inflexible and obftinate in his Ido-
latry. The Mexicans, befides the Bigotry with which
they worshipped their Idols, and defended their
Errors, were very much difpofed to rife in Arms
againſt the Spaniards: What Prudence then could
there be in undertaking fo unfeaſonable an Affair
againſt the Inclination of Motezuma? If we look
toward the Views with which it was pretended to
have been done, we fhall find them intirely uſeleſs,
and inconfiftent with Reafon. Was it fit to begin
the Converſion and Undeceiving of Idolaters by de-
ftroying their Idols: To regard an unprofitable
outfide Shew as the Triumph of Religion: To
place the holy Images in a Place unclean and de-
teftable; leaving them to the Difpofal of Pagan
Prieſts, expoſed to Irreverence, Profanenefs, and
Sacrilege: And lastly, to celebrate, amongſt the Re-
prefentations of the Devil, the ineffable Sacrifice of
the Maſs? Antonio de Herrera qualifies theſe Under-
takings with the Title of memorable Actions. Let
thoſe judge who fhall read them: We for our Parts
do not find any good Reafon, either Politick or
Chriſtian, whereby to folve fo many Inconfiftencies.
So leaving this Point of the Story doubtful and
undecided, we fhall only add, that we had much
rather, that either thefe Irregularities had never hap-
pened after the Manner they are related, or that in-
credible Truths had never been admitted in Hiftory.
CHAP.
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
Ir
CHA P. II.
A Confpiracy which was forming against the Spa-
niards, by the King of Tezcuco, is diſcovered;
and Motezuma, partly by his own Vigilance,
and partly by the Advice of Cortes, quells it,
and chaftifes the Author.
FRO
"ROM the very firſt Beginnings of this Enter-
prize of the Spaniards, the Variety of Accidents
they met with was very remarkable; Profperity,
and its Contrary, alternately attending their Under-
takings. Sometimes Hope was abfolute, and made
Difficulties give way; and at other Times Dangers
fprang from Security itſelf: All human Deſigns,
and their Succeffes, being fubject to this Condition,
to have Good and Evil fo link'd together, that with
little Intermiffion they fucceed each other; and we
ought to believe, that this Inftability of earthly
Things is neceffary to correct our intemperate Paf-
fions.
THE blind Gentiles placed this Series of Variety
in an imaginary Wheel, which was formed by a
Chaining together of good and bad Succeſs, and
was turned by a certain Intelligence without Elec-
tion, which they called Fortune; attributing, by
that Notion, to mere Chance every Thing they de-
fired or feared; whereas in Truth it is the wife Dif-
poſition of Divine Providence, that the Felicities.
and Misfortunes of the World do not continue long
in the fame Station; that Mankind may enjoy the
one with Moderation, may bear the other with Pa-
tience, and elevate their Minds to the Search of
what is more ftable and fubftantial in the Regions
of Eternity,
THE
12
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
THE Spaniards already found themſelves fuffici-
ently fecured of the Favour of Motezuma, and of
the Efteem of the Mexicans: But at the fame Time
that they enjoyed this favourable Tranquillity, there
arofe a freſh Storm, which endangered all the Pre-
cautions of Cortes, and was occafioned by Cacuma-
zin, the Emperor's Nephew, King of Tezcuco, and
firſt Elector of the Empire. He was an inconfide-
rate, hot-headed Youth, who being over-ruled by
his Ambition, had determined to make his Name
famous amongst the Indians, by declaring himſelf
againſt the Spaniards, with the Pretence of fetting
the Emperor at Liberty: His Rank, Dignity, and
high Blood, gave him Hopes of attaining the Em-
pire at the first Election; and he flattered himfelf,
that his Sword being once drawn, he might have a
Chance to reach the Crown. His firft Care was to
endeavour to blacken and difcredit Motezuma with
his People, upbraiding his Pufillanimity and Mean-
nefs of Spirit with which he ſuffered that inglorious
Subjection: Then he accufed the Spaniards, repre-
fenting in the blackeft Colours the Violence they
did the Emperor, the great Intereft they were gain-
ing in the Government, and the Foundations they
were laying of a Tyranny, without paffing by any
one Particular which might render them odious and
deſpicable. The next Step he took was to fow the
fame Seeds of Sedition amongst the rest of the
petty Kings of the Lake; and finding their Minds
fufficiently difpofed to an Infurrection, he refolved
to put his Deſigns in Execution; to which Purpofe
he called a Council of all his Friends and Relations,
which he fecretly held in his Palace. There were
preſent at the Affembly the Kings of Cuyocan, Iz-
tapalapa, Tacuba, and Matalcingo, with other Ca-
ziques of the adjacent Countries, all Perfons of Di-
ftinction and Intereft, who had the Command of
numerous
Book IV. Conqueft of MEXICO.
13
}
numerous Bodies of fighting Men, and valued
themſelves upon their Experience in Military Affairs.
He made them an Harangue, fupported with the
Appearance of Reafon; and concealing his hidden
Deſigns with a Shew of Zeal for the publick Good,
he reprefented to them the prefent Condition of the
Emperor, feemingly forgetful of his own Liberty;
and ſpoke warmly of the Obligation they all lay
under, to unite like loyal Subjects and Vaffals, to
deliver him from that inglorious Bondage. He art-
fully brought in the Proximity of Blood, which
obliged him to intereft himſelf in what regarded his
Uncle. And turning his Difcourfe upon the Spani-
ards; What is it we wait for, Friends, and Kinfmen,
faid he, that we open not our Eyes to behold the Re-
proach of our Nation, and our fhameful Sufferings?
Shall we, who are born to bear Arms, and who place
our greatest Felicity in the Terrer ce give our Ene-
mies: Shall we, I say, Stoop our Necks to the difgrace-
ful Yoke of a few wandering Strangers? What are all
their daring and prefumptuous Actions, but fo many
Reproaches of our Effeminacy, and purely founded upon
the Contempt they have of us? Let us but feriously
confider the Progress they have made in a few Days,
and we shall first be fenfible of our own Shame, and
next of the Obligations we lie under. They have pre-
fumptuously intruded themfelves into the Court of
Mexico, being become infolent by having obtained four
Battels, in which the small Resistance they met with
from their Enemies made then valiant. They have
entered triumphantly into the City, in Despite of our
King, and contrary to the Inclination of the Nobility
and Miniftry. They have introduced Rebels, and our
profeffcd Enemies, and keep them in Arms before our
Eyes; and by fo doing increase the Vanity of the Tlaf-
calans, and trample under Foot the Glory of the Mexi-
cans. They have taken away the Life of a General
of
*....
The HISTORY of the
14
Book IV.
of the Empire, by a publick and ignominious Execu-
tion, audaciously exercifing the Jurifdiction of Magi-
Strates, and the Authority of Legislators, in Dominions
wherein they are mere Strangers. And lastly, they de-
tain the Perfon of the Great Motezuma in their
Quarters, having violently forced him from his Pa-
lace; and, not content to place Guards upon him in
our very Sight, they have proceeded to offer Outrage
to his Royal Perfon, by putting the fame Fetters
upon him which their most infamous Criminals are
wont to wear. That this is true, we are all fenfible;
yet who will believe it, and not rather give the Lye
to his own Eyes? An infamous Truth it is, and which
ought to be paſſed over in Silence, or rather buried in
perpetual Oblivion! Well then, what detains you, noble
and illuftrious Mexicans? Your King a Priſoner, and
you patient and unarmed Spectators! This Appearance
of Liberty which you fee him enjoy, for fome Days paſt,
is not Liberty, but a deceitful Step, by which he has
infenfibly paſſed to a more indecent Servitude. They
have tyrannized over his very Heart, and made them-
felves Mafters of his Will, which is the most ignoble
Bondage a Prince can undergo. They are the Men
who govern and command us; for the Perfon who
ought to command us, is a Vafal to them. You now
behold him fupinely negligent of the Confervation of his
Dominions, regardless of the Defence of his Laws and
Religion, and his wonted Princely Refolution converted
into fervile Abjellion: We, whofe Names and Power
are fo great in the Mexican Empire, muft, with our
utmoſt Strength, endeavour to prevent its Ruin. What
concerns us all to do, is, to unite our Forces, complete
the Ruin of theſe Strangers, and fet our Sovereign at
Liberty. If we fhall difplease him, by not obeying him
fo strictly in what we know to be contrary to his In-
tereft, he will be fenfible of the Goodness of the Re-
medy, when he shall find himself delivered from the
Evil.
Book IV.
15
Conquest of MEXICO.
Evil. If it fhould prove otherwife, Mexico has Men
whofe Temples will very well fit a Crown; and be
will not be the first of our Kings, who, by not know-
ing how to reign, or by reigning negligently, has let
the Sceptre drop out of his Hands.
Cacumazin delivered himſelf after this Manner,
and with fo much Warmth, that the whole Affem-
bly followed his Opinion; breaking out into great
Menaces againſt the Spaniards, and offering to ferve
perfonally in that Action. Only the Cazique of
Matalcingo, who was in the fame Degree of Con-
fanguinity to Motezuma, and not without his Pre-
tenfions to the Crown, underſtood the Drift of the
Propofal, and did his Endeavour to fruftrate the
Deſigns of his Competitor, by ſaying, That be held
it more neceffary, and agreeable to the Obligation of
all, to acquaint Motezuma with what they defigned,
and first have his Permiffion; fince it would be very
wrong in them to attack a Place wherein he refided,
without first putting his Perfon in Security, as well
for the Danger bis Life might be in, as for the Dif
reputation of destroying thoſe Strangers under the Pro-
tection of their Sovereign. The reft of the Affem-
bly rejected this Propofition as impracticable; and
Cacumazin let fall fome biting Expreffions, which
the other bore, that he might the better purfue his
Intentions. Then the Council broke up, having
appointed the Day, concerted the Manner, and re-
commended an inviolable Secrecy.
MOTEZUMA and Cortes had both Notice of this
Confpiracy, almoft at the fame Time: Motezuma
by private Advice, which was fuppofed to be fent
by the King of Matalcingo; and Cortes by the In-
telligence of his Spies and Confidents. They fought
each other to communicate the News they had re-
ceived, and Motezuma had the good Fortune to
fpeak first, clearing himfelf from all Sufpicion by
fuch
16
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
fuch a convincing Proof of his Integrity. He in-
formed Cortes of all that had been tranfacted; ex-
preffed a violent Indignation both againſt his Ne-
phew the King of Tezcuco, and all the reft of the
Confpirators, and propofed to chaſtiſe them with
all the Rigour they deferved. But Cortes, giving
him to underſtand, that he knew the whole Affair,
intimating fome Circumſtances which left him no
Room to doubt, anſwered, That he was very much
concerned to have been the Occafion of fuch a Diftur-
bance amongst his Vaſſals, and for that Reaſon found
himſelf obliged to take upon himſelf the Remedy: That
he was therefore come to afk his Leave to march im-
mediately with his Spaniards to Tezcuco, and put a
Stop to this Miſchief before it grew to a Head, by
bringing Cacumazin Prifoner, before he should join
bis Confederates, and it should be neceſſary to have
Recourſe to more violent Remedies.
MOTEZUMA Would not admit of this Propoſal,
but on the contrary abfolutely rejected it, as well
knowing what a Diminution it would be to his
Power and Authority, if he made Ufe of Foreign
Arms to chaftife Attempts of this Nature in Per-
fons of that Rank. He therefore defired him, for
his Sake, to diffemble his Refentment, and told
him, as his final Refolution, That he would not con-
fent, neither was it convenient that the Spaniards
hould make the leaft Motion, left fuch a Proceeding
might increase the People's Hatred to them, and render
them more obftinate in infifting upon their Removal
from his Court; but that they should rather help him
to ſubject thofe Rebels, by affifting him with their
Counsel, and by acting, if there was Occafion, as Me-
diators.
He was of Opinion, that it would be beſt firſt,
to try gentle Means, and (confidering the Depen-
dence his Nephew had on him) that he ſhould eaſily
bring
Book IV.
17
Conquest of MEXICO:
bring him to Reaſon, by reminding him of the
Obligations he lay under, and induce him to enter
into an amicable Correfpondence with the Spaniards.
To which Purpoſe he fent for him by one of his
principal Attendants, who acquainted him with the
Order he brought from the Emperor, and told him,
on the Part of Cortes, That he defired his Friendship,
and to have him nearer, that he might make him fen-
fible of it. But he, who had now caft off all Obe-
dience, and confulted nothing but his Ambition,
with the Arrogance and Diſreſpect of one abandon'd,
and precipitately bent upon his own Ruin, return'd
the Emperor a moſt infolent Anſwer, and treated
Cortes with fo much Haughtinefs and Contempt,
that he made freſh Inftances to Motezuma for Per-
miffion to chaftife him; which Propofal was a
fecond Time rejected by the Emperor, who told him,
That this was one of thofe Cafes, which rather re-
quired the Afftance of the Head than of the Hands;
and that he should leave it to him to manage according
to the Experience and Knowledge he had of thofe Ex-
travagancies, and of the Source from whence they pro-
ceeded.
He carried himſelf afterwards with great Re-
ſervedneſs amongſt his Minifters, feemingly con-
temning the Offence, to induce the Offender to be
lefs circumfpect; to which Purpoſe he told them,
That he looked on this bold Undertaking of his Ne-
phew, as the Heat of Youth, and the first Motions of
a Man without Confideration. But at the fame Time
he formed a fecret Confpiracy againſt the Confpi-
rator himſelf, making Ufe of fome of his own Ser-
vants, who were either truly fenfible of their Duty,
or were gained by the Help of Gifts and Promiſes;
by whofe Means he contrived it fo, that Cacumazin
was affaulted one Night in his Houfe, embarked
on a Canoe, that was ready prepared, and brought
VOL. II.
Prifoner
C
18
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Priſoner to Mexico, without his being able to make
any Reſiſtance. It was then that Motezuma diſco-
vered all his diffembled Anger, and without per-
mitting that unhappy Prince to appear before him,
or giving Room for any of his Excufes, he com-
manded, with the Approbation and Concurrence of
Cortes, that he ſhould be put into the cloſeſt Priſon
of the Nobles; treating him as a Criminal who had
committed an unpardonable Offence, and was to
fuffer capital Puniſhment.
THERE was at this Time in Mexico a Brother of
Cacumazin, who fome few Days before had hap-
pily eſcaped out of his Hands, he having defign'd
to deprive him of his Life upon fome domeftick
Jealoufies of fmall Foundation. Motezuma took
him under his Protection in his Palace, and for his
greater Security, inrolled him in his Family. He
was a young Man of Courage and great Merit, welk
eſteemed both in the Court, and amongſt his Bro-
ther's Vaffals; and the Circumftance of his being
perfecuted had more recommended him both to
the one and to the other. Cortes caft his Eyes on
him; and defiring to gain him for a Friend, and
bring him over to his Party, he propofed to Mo-
tezuma, to give him the Inveftiture and Domi-
nion of Tezcuco, fince his Brother had rendered
himſelf incapable of refuming his Government, by
having confpired against his Sovereign; and told
him, "That it would not be fafe at that Juncture
c
to puniſh a Delinquent of fo great Conſideration
" with Lofs of Life, when the Minds of the
"Nobles were in fuch Commotion: That the de-
"priving him of his Kingdom, would be giving,
him a kind of Death which made lefs Noife, and
"was fufficiently fevere to ftrike a Terror into his
Accomplices: That this young Man was of a far
better Difpofition, already indebted to him for
.
"his
Book IV. 19
1
Conquest of MEXICO.
66
"his Life, and would likewife be obliged to him
"for his Crown, and remain under greater Obli-
gations of Obedience, in Oppofition to his Bro-
"ther. And lastly, that by this, he gave the
Kingdom to the Perfon who had the Right of
"Succeffion, and left to his own Blood the Dig-
"nity of Firſt Elector, which was of fo great Au-
thority in the Empire."
<<
CC
MOTEZUMA was fo highly pleaſed with this
Thought of Cortes, that he immediately communi-
cated the fame to his Council, where his Refolution
was applauded as merciful and equitable: And the
Miniſters formed a Royal Decree, whereby Cacuma-
zin was difpoffeffed of all his Honours and Dignities,
according to the Cuſtom of that Country, as a Trai-
tor and Rebel to his Prince, and his Brother named
for Succeffor of the Kingdom and Electorate. Mo-
tezuma afterwards ordered him to his Prefence; and
during the Time of his Inveftiture, which had its
particular Ceremonies and Solemnities, he, with a
Majeſtick Air, made a Speech, wherein, with all
poffible Succinctneſs, he hinted at all the Motives
which ought to oblige him to an inviolable Loy-
alty; and publickly declared, "That he had deter-
"mined this Affair purely by the Advice of Her-
<c
nan Cortes, giving him to underſtand, it was to
"him he owed his Advancement." It may be
imagined, that the Perfon interefted was not unac-
quainted with this before; for it was not a Time
to conceal Obligations. But what is obfervable, is
the Care Motezuma took to have Cortes well efteem'd,
and to gain the Minds of his People in Favour of
the Spaniards.
THE new King immediately departed for his
Court, and was well received, and crowned with
great Acclamations and Rejoicings; all People cele-
brating his Exaltation upon different Motives: Some,
C 2
becauſe
20
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
>
Becauſe they really loved him, and were concerned
at his Perfecution; others, out of Ill-will to Cacu-
mazin; and the greateſt Part to fignify their Ab-
horrence of his Crime. This Manner of Chaftife-
ment, without Blood-fhed, was highly applauded
throughout the whole Empire, and was attributed
to the fuperior Judgment of the Spaniards; for no
one expected fuch Moderation from Motezuma.
And the very Novelty of it was of fo much Confe-
quence, that the other Confpirators prefently dif
perfed their Troops, and, unarmed, had Recourſe
to their Monarch's Clemency. They made their
Application to Cortes, and, through his Means, at
laft obtained a Pardon; and thus the Storm blew
over that had been raiſed againſt him, and he got
clear of the Danger with Advantage, partly by his
own Induſtry, and partly by favourable Incidents:
For Motezuma was obliged to him for the Tran-
quillity of his Realm; the firft Prince of the Em-
pire owed to him his Dignity; and by fhewing Fa-
vour to the reſt, who had endeavoured to deſtroy
him, he found himſelf fupported with a new Stock
of Friends, and People who ftood indebted to
him.
1
CHA P.
A
21
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
CHA P. III.
Motezuma refolves to fend away Cortes by an-
fwering his Embally. He affembles his Nobles,
and gives Orders, That the King of Spain
fhould be acknowledged for Succellor of that
Empire; determining to obey him, and to pay
bim Tribute, as Defcendant from their firft
Conqueror.
HESE Commotions, which had imployed the
whole Care of the Emperor, being quieted, he
felt that Disturbance, which the Remembrance of
paft Danger leaves in the Imagination. He reafon'd
with himſelf about his preſent State; and it feemed
to him that the Spaniards had made too long a Stay
at his Court; and that they began to think, that
the Goodneſs he had ufed towards them gave them
a Right over his Liberty. This induced him to re-
folve to familiarize himfelf lefs with them, and to
change the Manner of his Conduct.
He was
afhamed of the Pretence Cacumazin had made Ufe
of in his Confpiracy, attributing his good Nature
to Want of Spirit; and fometimes he accufed him-
felf, as having given too much Occafion for thoſe
Murmurs. He was concerned to fee his Authority
fo diminiſhed, which is a Jealoufy that conftantly
attends a Throne, and takes up the firft Place
amongſt thoſe Paffions whereby Monarchs are go-
verned. He was apprehenfive of a freſh Diftur-
bance amongſt his Vaffals; and left new Sparks
fhould arife from that newly extinguished Fire, he
was defirous of letting Cortes know, That it was
Time to think of his Departure; but could not
meet with a handfome Opportunity to propofe it
C 3
to
ય
22
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
to him; for Jealoufies are of a Nature not to be
eaſily confeffed, becauſe they expreſs a Kind of Fear.
He continued fome Days in this Irrefolution; but
at length determined, that it was proper, upon all
Accounts, to haften the Departure of the Spaniards,
and thereby to remove that Obſtacle to his Subjects
Loyalty.
THIS Affair he managed with notable Conduct
and Prudence; for before he communicated his In-
tention to Cortes, he had prepared Replies to all the
Arguments he could bring for his longer Continu-
ance there. He waited till Cortes came to vifit him.
as he was wont, receiving him without the leaft Al-
teration in his Behaviour or Countenance, and intro-
duced the Diſcourſe concerning the King of Spain,
after the fame Manner as at other Times, declaring,
what a mighty Veneration he had for him; and, at
Jaft, artfully bringing about what he at firft had
propofed, faid, That he had been thinking to make a
voluntary Acknowledgment of that Vaffalage, which
was due to him, as Succeffor of Quezalcoal, and Pro-
prietary Lord of that Empire. So he really under-
ftood it, and in this only he spoke without Difguife;
but he did not intend, at that Time, to ſurrender
his Dominions to the King of Spain, but to get rid
of Cortes, and to haften his Diſpatch; to which Pur-
pofe he added, That he intended to affemble the No-
bility of his Realms, and to make this Acknowledgment
in their Prefence, that they might all, after his Ex-
ample, pay Obedience, and establish the Vaffalage by
fome Contribution, in which he would also fet the Ex-
ample; for that he had already provided feveral Jewels,
and precious Stones of great Value, to difcharge this
Obligation on his Part, and doubted not but his Nobles
would contribute on theirs the richest and most valua-
ble Things they had; nor did he question, but that ſo
confiderable a Quantity would be collected, as might
bę
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
23
be fit to appear before the Prefence of his Prince, as
the first Acknowledgment of the Mexican Empire.
THIS was his Propofal, and in this he granted at
once every Thing that he thought the Spaniards could
have the Boldneſs to defire; fatisfying both their
Ambition and Avarice, in order to deprive them of
all Pretence for remaining longer in his Court, be-
fore he ordered them to depart: And he concealed,
with ſo much Artifice, the Point he aim'd at, that
Hernan Cortes, at that Time, did not diſcover it,
but returned him Thanks for that Liberality, with-
out feeming furprized at it, or magnifying it, as
one who accepted, on the Part of his Mafter, that
which he thought his Due: And he was extremely
well fatisfied for having obtained more than he ima-
gined practicable, at the prefent Juncture of Af-
fairs. He afterwards, to his Captains and Soldiers,
extoll'd the mighty Service they fhould do their
King, if they could bring it about to have fo pow-
erful a Monarch declared his Subject and Tributary.
He difcourfed of the immenfe Riches with which
this News would be accompanied, that it might not
appear a bare Relation,' and run the Rifk of being
thought incredible. And, in Truth, he had no
Thoughts at that Time of quitting his Enterprize,
nor did he believe it a Matter of any great Difficulty
to maintain himſelf there, till they ſhould know in
Spain the Condition in which he was, and fend him
Orders how to proceed. A Security into which he
was brought by the great Favour of Motezuma, the
Friends he was daily making, the Succefs with
which all his Undertakings were attended, or by
fome fuperior Caufe, which animated him to the
Expectation of ſtill greater Matters, left he ſhould
·lofe Courage, and fcruple to proceed when he was
within Sight of his utmoft Defires.
CA
BUT
24
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
患
​BUT Motezuma who drew his Lines towards a
different Centre, and knew how to refolve at
Leifure, and execute with Speed, immediately dif
patch'd away his Convocatory Orders to the Caziques
of his Realm, as was cuftomary when any publick
Affairs of more than ordinary Importance occur'd,
without citing thoſe who were at a great Diſtance,
that no Time might be loft in what requir'd the
utmoſt Diſpatch. It was not many Days before
they all arriv'd at Mexico, with the Attendants they
us'd to bring to Court, which were fo numerous,
that, had the Occafion and Cuſtom been unknown,
it might have alarm'd the whole City. Motezuma
affembled them all in the Apartment where he had
taken up his Refidence, and in the Prefence of
Cortes (who was called to this Congrefs, and, with
his Interpreters and fome of his Captains, took his
Place amongst them) made them a Speech, in
which he laid before them the Motives, and qualify'd
the Harſhneſs of that extraordinary Refolution he
had taken. Bernal Diaz del Castillo fays, He held
two ſeveral affemblies, and that Cortes did not aſſiſt
in the first: It may be one of his Equivocations;
for Harnan Cortes himſelf would nothave conceal'd
it in the fecond Relation of his Expedition; and
befides, as they were then endeavouring to fatisfy
him, and were to place a Confidence in him, it was
not a proper Time for fecret Affemblies.
THIS Tranfaction was carried on with great Splen-
dor and Authority; for the Nobles and Minifters
which refided at Maxico, affifted likewife at it.
And Motezuma, cafting his Eyes upon the Affembly
with an agreeable and becoming Majefty, began
his Harangue; gaining the good Will and Atten-
tion of all, by laying before them, How much he
lov'd them, and how much they were oblig'd to him;
putting them in Mind, That it was from him alone
they
Book IV. Conqueft of MEXICO.
25
they held all the Honours and Dignities they poffefs'd:
And from that beginning inferr'd, how much they ought
to believe that he would propofe nothing to them but
what was for their Intereft, after having confider'd
on it with mature Deliberation, confulted with his Gods,
and receiv'd evident Signals of their Approbation.
He affected many Times thefe Lights of Infpi-
ration, to give ſomething that favour'd of Divinity
to his Refolutions, and on this Occafion they be-
lieved him; for it was no Novelty for the Devil to
favour him with his Anfwers. Having laid this
Foundation of Recrimination and Myſtery, he
gave
a brief Relation of "The Origin of the Mexican
Empire; the Expedition of the Nabatlacas; the
"prodigious Actions of Quezalcoal, their Firft
"Emperor; the Prochecy he left them when he
departed for the Conqueft of the East; foretel-
66
66
66
ling, by the Impulfe of Heaven, That his De-
"fcendants ſhould return to govern thefe Coun-
"tries". Then he touched, as a Point undoubted,
"That the King of Spain, who rul'd in thoſe
"Eaſtern Regions, was lawful Succeffor of the
"fame Quezalcoal." And added, "That being
"the Monarch, from whom was to proceed that
"Prince fo much defired amongst the Mexicans,
and fo often promifed in the Oracles and Pro-
"phecies, which that Nation reverenced, they
"ought unanimoufly to acknowledge in his Perfon
that Hereditary Right, giving to his Blood that,
"which for want of it, had been introduced by
Election: And that had he come himfelf in Per-
"fon, as he had only fent his Embaſſadors, he
was fo much a Lover of Juftice and Equity,
"and bore his Vaffals fo great an Affection, that
for their greater Felicity, he would have been
the Firft to ftrip himſelf of the Dignity he
poffeffed, by laying the Crown at his Feet,
66
66
"either
26
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
"either to leave it to his abfolute Difpofal, or to
"receive it again from his Hand. But owing to
"his Gods the good Fortune that this ſo deſirable
"News was arrived in his Time, he was reſolved
<6 to be the Firſt to fhew his Satisfaction, and had
"determined immediately to pay him Obedience,
"and to do him fome confiderable Service: To
"which End he had deftin'd the moſt precious
"Jewels of his Treafury, and defired that his
"Nobles would follow his Example, not only in
"making the fame Acknowledgment, but in ac-
86
companying it with fome Contribution of their
"Riches, that the Service being greater might
appear with the greater Splendor in the Prefence
" of that Prince.
ce
IN this Manner Motezuma concluded his Dif
courſe, tho' he did not utter it all without Inter-
ruption; for in fpite of all the Efforts made upon
himſelf, in this Act of his, when he came to pro-
nounce himſelf Vaffal to another Prince, he found
fomething fo fhocking, and fo repugnant to his
Nature in thoſe Expreffions, that he paus'd a while,
as if he wanted Words to proceed; and he fhewed
his Concern fo publickly, that fome Tears were
feen trickling down his Cheeks, which feemed as if
they had eſcap'd his Eyes without their Confent.
And the Mexicans, fenfible of his Difturbance, and
of the Caufe from whence it proceeded, began
likewiſe to fhew their Concern, breaking forth into
loud Sighs, defiring in Appearance, not without
fomething that favoured of Flattery, that by the
Noiſe they made, their Fidelity fhould be taken
Notice of; fo that Cortes thought it neceffary to
defire Liberty to fpeak, in order to encourage
Motezuma, and put him out of the Perturbation he
was in He faid "That it was not the Intention
"of the King his Sovereign to difpoffefs him of
"his
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
27
"his Royal Dignity, nor to make the leaft Inno-
"vation in his Government; but that all he defired
"was, that they would, at the prefent Affembly,
"fettle his Right to the Succeffion, in Favour of
"his Defcendants, or Pofterity, by Reaſon of his
દ being ſo far diſtant from thoſe Regions, and fo
"taken up in other Conqueſts, that the Cafe men-
❝tioned in their Traditions and Prochecies might
not happen in many Years." With which
Explanation Motezuma recovered Heart, re-affu-
med an Air of Tranquillity, and finifhed his Dif-
courfe as has been obferved.
CC
THE Mexicans remained aſtoniſh'd, and utterly
confounded to hear fuch a Propofal, wondering at
it, as a Thing inconfiftent with, and unbecoming
the Majefty of fo powerful a Monarch, and a Prince
fo extremely jealous of his Authority. They looked
on each other without daring either to contradict,
or to give any Sign of Confent, as being apprehen-
five that by doing either they fhould but confirm
him the more in his ftrange Determination. This
refpectful Silence lafted till his Prime Miniſter, as a
Perſon who had a better Knowledge of his Prince's
Difpofition than any other, took upon him to ſpeak
for the reft, and faid; "That all the Nobles who
..
compos'd that Affembly reſpected him as their
"Lord and natural Sovereign, and fhould be ready
"to obey whatever his Majefty had been pleaſed
"to propofe, and to follow any Example he
"fhould think fit to fet them; they not doubt-
ing but that he had well weighed every Thing
"and had confulted with Heaven; nor had they
"any Inftrument more facred than that of his
"Voice whereby to be imformed of the Will of
"their Gods." The whole Affembly agreed in
the fame Sentiment; and Hernan Cortes, when it
came to his Turn to make his Acknowledgments,
dictated
28
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
dictated to his Interpreters a Speech no leſs artful
than the former, in which he gave Thanks to
Motezuma, and all who were prefent, for this
Demonſtration of their Reſpect; accepting their
Service in the Name of his King, without feeming
to think it strange that they complyed with their
Obligations; but rather as one who receives his
Debt, and is pleafed with his Debtor's punctual
Payment.
THE Tears which Motezuma had let fall were
not fufficient, at that Time, to make Cortes fufpi-
cious of his Liberality, or to induce him to believe
that he was then making Way for his final Diſpatch;
in which his being carryed away by the firft Ap-
pearance will admit fome Excufe: For when he
found that unaccountable Opinion concerning the
Defcendants of Quezalcoal received amongſt them
as an infallible and inconteſtable Truth, and that
they look'd upon Don Carlos to be undoubtedly one
of thoſe Deſcendants, this Demonftration of their
Refpect did not appear fo very irregular as to make
him fufpect it to be Artifice or Affectation. Upon
which Suppofition he might alſo attribute Mote-
Zuma's Tears and Perturbation of Mind, when he
came to pronounce the Claufes of Vaffalage, to the
Pain which a King fuffers when he quits a Crown,
and meaſures the vaft Difference there is between
Sovereignty and Subjection; a Cafe in which the
Spirit of a Man may fink without doing Wrong to
his Courage. But there is Reaſon to believe, that
Motezuma, notwithſtanding he look'd on the King
of Spain as lawful Succeffor of the Empire, had no
Intention to make good what he offered: His
whole Aim was to get rid of the Spaniards, and
to take Time afterwards to confult his Ambition,
without laying any great Strefs upon his Word:
And we ought not to be ſurpriſed to find Diffimu-
lation
!
Book IV. Conqueft of MEXICO.
29
lation among thofe barbarous Princes, fince, tho
fufficient to ftain the Honour of a private Perfon,
other barbarous Statefmen have placed it amongſt
the neceffary Arts of Reigning.
HOWEVER, from that Day forward, the Em-
peror Charles the Fifth was acknowledg'd and be-
lieved by thoſe People to be lawful and hereditary
Lord of the Mexican Empire; being indeed deſtin-
ed by Heaven to a more real Poffeffion of that
Crown. Upon this Refolution a Publick Inftru-
ment was form'd, with all neceffary Solemnities,
according to the Method they us'd of paying Ho-
mage to their Kings: And this Submiffion of
Motezuma and his Vaffals to the Emperor gave to
Don Carlos fomething more than the bare Name of
King of the Indies, and was a Kind of myſterious
Infinuation of that Title which he afterwards ac-
quired by Force of Arms, upon juft Provocation,
(as we fhall fee in its proper Place): A particular
Circumftance which concurred in the Juftification
of the Conqueft of that Empire; befides thoſe
general Confiderations, which, in other Parts of the
World do not only render War excufable, but
likewife lawful, and reafonable, whenfoever it ap-
pears to be undertaken as the neceffary Means for
the Introduction of the Gofpel.
CHAP.
30
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
CHAP. IV.
The Gold and Jewels defigned for the Prefent,
delivered into the Poffeffion of Cortes. Mote-
zuma refolutely tells him, that he muſt think
of his Departure, which he endeavours to
delay. Advice brought of the Arrival of a
Squadron of Spanish Ships upon the Coaft.
MOTEZUMA loft not a Moment's Time, but
us'd his utmoſt Diligence to bring about the
Deſigns he had in View, being now fully refolved
to diſpatch the Spaniards as foon as poffible, as being
weary of the Violence he did himſelf under that
Kind of Subjection which he found he was obliged
patiently to continue in as if it was of his own
Choice. Full of this Care, he delivered to Cortes
the preſent he had provided, which confifted of
various Curiofities in Gold, with precious Stones,
fome which he us'd about his own Perfon, and
others that were kept for Grandeur, and ferv'd for
Oftentation; different Pieces of the fame Kind and
Metal in the Shapes of Animals, Birds, and Fiſhes,
the Excellency of the Workmanſhip delighting the
Eye, and extremely inhancing their Value: A great
Number of thofe Stones called Chalcuites, in Colour
like to Emerald, and which they efteemed as we
do our Diamonds; together with fome Pictures
made of Feathers, whofe Colours being natural,
they either imitated better, or ow'd lefs to Art in
the imitation of Nature. The Gift of a Royal
Mind, who found himſelf oppreffed, and defired to
put a Price upon his Liberty.
AFTER this came the Prefents of the Nobles,
under the Title of a Contribution, which conſiſted
of Pieces of Gold, and other Curiofities of the
fame
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
31
fame Sort, in which they vied with each other,
ftriving who fhou'd exprefs the greateſt Obedience
to their Prince, and not without fome Mixture of
their own Vanity. All came directed to Motezuma,
and pafs'd on, by his Order, to the Apartment of
Cortes, who nam'd a Receiver and Treaſurer, that
they might take an exact Account of what was
delivered; and in a few Days they amafs'd fuch a
Quantity of Gold, that befides the Jewels, precious
Stones, and Pieces of curious Workmanſhip, after
they had melted down the reft, they found Six
Hundred Thouſand Pefos of Gold in Bars of good
Alloy; out of which the Fifth Part was fet afide
for the King, and of the Remainder, a Second
Fifth for Hernan Cortes, with the Approbation of
his People, and to defray the Expence of provi-
ding for the publick Neceffities of the Army. He
likewife fet afide the Sum for which he ftood ac-
countable to Diego Velasquez, and that which his
Friends in the Inland of Cuba had lent him; the
reft was divided amongſt the Officers and Soldiers,
including thoſe who were at Vera-Cruz.
THOSE Who had Employments, had equal Shares;
but amongſt the private Men there was fome Dif-
ference made, for thofe were diſtinguiſhed and beſt
rewarded who had done beft Service, or been leaft
troubleſome in the paft Difturbances. An Equity
of a very dangerous Nature, where juft Rewards
are look'd upon as Grievances, and Diſtinction of
Merit occafions Complaints. There were great
Murmerings, and bold Words uttered againſt Her-
nan Cortes, and his Captains: For at the Sight of
fuch a Mafs of Wealth, thofe whofe Deferts were
leaft, required an equal Recompence with the moſt
deferving. Their Avarice could not poffiby be
fatisfied, nor was it convenient to publifh the Rea-
fons of that unequal Diſtribution.
BERNAL
t
}
32
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
BERNAL DIAZ DEL CASTILLO difcuffes this Point
very indecently, and waftes too much Paper in
confidering and enlarging upon the Hardſhips the
poor Soldiers underwent in this Diftribution, and
goes fo far as to fet down every Minute Expref-
fion this or that Soldier us'd amongſt his Compa-
nions.
But
He ſpeaks more like a neceffitous Soldier than
a Hiftorian: And Antonio de Herrera follows him
without making fufficient Reflection; for it is no
leſs a Fault in Hiftory, to paſs over that which
ought to be well confidered, than it is to dwell
too long upon that which may be omitted.
both the one and the other agree, that this Dif-
content of the Soldiers was quieted by the Libera-
lity of Cortes, who gave out of his own Dividend,
all that was neceffary to fatisfy thofe who com-
plained; and they afterwards greatly praife his
Generofity and Difintereſtedneſs; in this Man-
ner overthrowing, what they ought not at all to have
mentioned in their Narration.
So foon as Motezuma and his Nobles had made
this Acknowledgment of Subjection offer'd in the
Affembly, he fent for Cortes, and with an unac-
cuſtomed Air of Severity, told him, "That it
"was reaſonable he fhould now begin to think of
"his Journey, fince he was intirely diſpatched;
"and that the Motives, or Pretences for his Stay
being ceafed, and he having received fo fa-
"vourable an Anfwer to his Embaffy, the Mexi
cans would not fail of furmifing that he had
greater Views, if they ſaw him, without any ap-
parent good Caufe, continue longer in his
"Court; nor could he himſelf any ways fupport
56
..
..
<<
him, when Reaſon was not on his Side." This
short Intimation of his Mind, delivered in a Sort
of menacing Tone, with Signs of a premeditated
Refolution
Book IV. Conqueft of MEXICO.
33
*. - - - -
Refolution, was fo great a Surprize to Cortes, that
he pauſed for fome Moments, to call to his Af-
fiftance his wonted Diſcretion in the Reply he was
to make; and difcovering then the Artifice of thoſe
Liberalities and Favours of the late Affembly, the
firſt Motion of his Mind prompted him to return a
refolute Anfwer, and to have Recourfe to that fu-
perior Genius, by which he had the Afcendant
over him; and whether it was with this Intent,
or that he began to fufpect Motezuma might have
fome Force ready to back him, fince he had de-
livered himſelf in fuch warm and plain Terms, he
privately gave Orders to one of his Captains to
make his Soldiers take to their Arms, and to be
in a Readineſs for any Occafion that might offer.
But advifing better with himſelf, he determined to
ſeem for the preſent to acquiefce in the Emperor's
Pleafure; and to give fome Reaſon for the Delay of
his Anſwer, he handfomly excus'd his being em-
barraſs'd at feeing him moved more than ordinary,
tho' what he had been pleaſed to order was nothing
but what was very reaſonable. He told him, "That
"he would inftantly think of haſtning his Journey:
"That he had now every Thing ready which he
"wanted; and that defiring to execute his Defign
"without farther Delay, he had come with a Re-
"folution of begging his Permiffion for the build-
"ing of fome Veffels proper for fo tedious a
"Voyage, having, as his Majefty well knew, loſt
"thofe in which he came thither." With this
artful and prudent Reply, he exprefs'd his Obe-
dience, and fufpended the Execution, freeing him-
felf from his prefent Embarraffment, and gaining
Time for further Refolutions.
Ir is faid that Motezuma had provided Fifty
Thouſand Men to fupport his Determination, and
VOL II.
D
that
f
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
34
that he came fully refolved to make himſelf obeyed
by Force in Cafe he found there was any Occaſion:
But it is moſt certain, that he greatly apprehended
the Anfwer of Cortes, and defired to avoid a Rup-
ture; for he embraced him with particular Af-
fection, being highly pleafed with his Reply, which
he feemed not to have expected. He was pleas'd
that Cortes had excufed him from putting himſelf
in a Paffion, or breaking with a Perfon for whom
he had not only a Friendship, but likewife a Re-
fpect; and finding himſelf now free from his Ap-
prehenfions, he faid, "That it was not his Inten-
tion to haften his Departure without furniſhing
"him with the neceffary Means to put it in Exe-
"cution: That he fhould, without Delay, difpofe
.
every Thing for building of the Veffels; and in
"the mean Time he need not give himſelf any
"Disturbance, nor ftir from his Court. That it
"was fufficient for the Satisfaction of his Gods,
"and the Quiet of his Subjects, that he had
"fhewed fuch Readinefs to obey the Commands
"of the firft, and to comply with the Demands of
"the latter." At this Time the Devil wearied
him with horrible Threats, deluding him with
Voices real or imaginary from the Mouths of his
Idols, to irritate him againſt the Spaniards. The
freſh Rumours which were fpreading amongst his
People, who very much refented that he had made
himſelf the Tributary of a ſtrange Prince, gave
him likewiſe great Uneafinefs; they looking upon
this quitting of his Authority as a new Grievance,
which in Tine would fall heavy upon the Backs
of his Vaffals; fo that he found himfelf attack'd on
the one Side by Politicks, and or the other by Reli-
gion; and it was very much that he determined to
give this Permiffion to Cortes, as being moft obſer-
vant
1
Book IV. Conquest of Mexico.
35
vant towards his Gods, and no lefs fuperftitious to
the Idol of his Ambition.
ORDERS were inſtantly iffu'd out for the build-
ing of the Veffels. The Journey was publiſh'd,
and Motezuma made Proclamation, that all the
Carpenters of the Country round about ſhould re-
pair to Ulua, affigning the Places where they were
to cut Wood, and the Towns which were to con-
tribute Indians of Burthen to carry it to the Dock.
Hernan Cortes, for his Part, affected an outward
Shew of Compliance: He immediately diſpatch'd
away the Mafters and Workmen who had been
employed in building the Brigantines, and were
well known now amongst the Mexicans. He dif-
courfed publickly with them of the Size and Qua-.
lity of thofe Veffels, ordering them to make Üſe
of the Iron-Work, Rigging, and Sails of thofe
which were funk, and all the Talk was of the
Voyage, as if it had been refolved on. Thus he
lull'd the Mexicans afleep, quell'd the growing
Murmurings, and confirm'd himfelf in Motezuma's
Confidence.
BUT at the Time when the Builders were to fet
out for Vera-Cruz, the General fent for Martin
Lopez, a Bifcainer by Nation, who went as chief
Director, and who, as he was a confummate Maſter
in the Art of Building, was no lefs qualified as a
Soldier: Cortes gave him privately in Charge,
"That he fhould go on by little and little in the
"building of thofe Veffels, and endeavour to pro-
<c
long the Work as much as he poffibly could, but
"ftill with fuch an artful Management, as not
"feemingly to delay it." His Defign was, under
the Colour of this, to keep himſelf ſtill at Court,
and give Time to his Commiffaries Alonfo Hernan-
dez Portocarrero and Francifco de Montejo, to re-
D 2
turn
+
36
The HISTORY of the
Book IV.
turn from Spain, in Hopes they would bring him
fome freſh Recruits, or at leaſt the Diſpatches and
Orders he wanted for the Direction of his Under-
taking, which he ftill firmly refolved to profecute:
And in cafe the laſt Neceffity fhould force him out
of Mexico, he defigned to wait for them in Vera-
Cruz, and maintain himfelf under the Protection of
that Fortreſs, making ufe of the Nations in Friend-
fhip with him to oppoſe the Mexicans: An admi-
rable Conftancy, which not only ſupported him in
the prefent Difficulties, but provided againſt thoſe
which might afterwards happen.
WITHIN a few Days happened another Ac-
cident which quite difconcerted all thefe Meaſures,
calling his Prudence and Courage to a new Trial.
Motezuma had Intelligence brough him, that
eighteen Sail of Ships were feen off-the Coaſt of
Ulua; and his Minifters, who commanded in that
Part of the Country, had fent the faid Ships and
their Number, painted upon Cloths, which ferved
inſtead of Letters, with a Defcription of the People
they had ſeen in them, and fome Characters which
fignified what they fufpected of their Intentions;
being Spaniards in Appearance, and arriving at a
Time when he treated of difpatching thoſe who
were already at his Court. Whatever Impreffion
theſe Repreſentations had on the Mind of Mote-
zuma, the Reſult was, that he immediately fent for
Cortes, laid the Picture before him, and told him,
"That now the Provifion he was making for his
..
Journey was unneceffary, fince fome Ships of his
"Nation were arrived upon the Coafts, on which
he might embark." Cortes viewed the Painting
with more Attention than Surprize; and though he
did not underſtand the Characters which defcribed
them, he knew enough by the Habit of the People,
and the Make of the Veffels, not to doubt their be-
ing
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
37
}
ing Spaniards. The firſt Motion of his Heart would
have inclined him to Joy, fince he believed for cer-
tain that his Commiffaries were arrived, and flat-
tered himſelf that they had brought him very con-
fiderable Supplies in fuch a Number of Veffels. The
Imagination is eaſily carried away to that which one
defires, and he could not ſuppoſe at that Time that
fo powerful an Armada was defigned against him;
for he formed his Judgment by his own fincere and
noble Manner of acting, and the Well-intentioned
are with Difficulty brought to believe that which is
againſt Juſtice and Reafon. His Anfwer to Mote-
zuma was, "That he would depart immediately,
"if thoſe Ships were bound back for any of the
"King of Spain's Dominions." And, not feeming
furprized that the Emperor fhould have the first
News of theſe Particulars, becauſe he was no Stranger
to the indefatigable Diligence of his Couriers, he
added, "That it would not be long before he
"fhould have an Account of this Accident from
"the Spaniards who were at Zempoala, and that
"then he ſhould know with Certainty whither thoſe
Ships were bound, and the Defigns of their Own-
ers, and whether it would be neceffary to pro-
"ceed in the building of the Veffels."
66
86
MOTEZUMA approved this Anfwer, being well
pleafed with his Readinefs, and acknowledging him
to be in the right: But in a fhort Time Letters
came from Vera-Cruz, in which Gonzalo de Sandoval
fent Information, “That thofe Ships belonged to
"Diego Velafquez, and brought eight hundred Spa-
"niards to oppofe Hernan Cortes and his Conqueft."
This unexpected Stroke he received in the Prefence
of Motezuma, and ſtood in Need of all his Courage
and Refolution to conceal his Perturbation of Mind.
He found himſelf in Danger from the very Quar-
ter from whence he expected Succour. The Junc-
D 3
ture
38
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
1
}
ture was truly defperate: Perplexity on every Side,
Diſcontents and Murmurings in Mexico, and Ene-
mies upon the Coaft: But doing the beſt he could
to compofe himfelf, he concealed his Concern from
Motezuma, foftened the Account amongſt his own
People, and retired afterwards to reafon calmly,
and be at more Liberty to think of a Remedy.
CHA P. V.
An Account of the Preparations made by Diego
Velasquez for the Deftruction of Hernan
Cortes: The Army and Fleet which he fent
against him, under the Command of Pam-
philo de Narvaez: His Arrival upon the
Coast of New Spain; and his fruitless At-
tempt to reduce the Spaniards of Vera-Cruz.
WE
E left Diego Velasquez full of Diſtruſts, im-
patient that his Endeavours to detain Her-
nan Cortes had proved abortive, difgracing, with
the Name of Treafon, the Flight which his own
Violence had occafioned, that he might take his
Revenge under the fpecious Pretext of a neceffary
Remedy. He received the Letters of the Licen-
tiate Benito Martin, his Chaplain, with the Title of
the King's Lieutenant, not only of that Iſland, but
of all the Lands which fhould be difcovered and
conquered through his Means. He informed him
with what Kindneſs or Acknowledgment he was de-
fended, and protected by the Biſhop of Burgos, Pre-
fident of the Indies; and how far that Prelate dif-
countenanced the Commiffaries of Hernan Cortes.
But, at the fame Time, he acquainted him with
what
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
39
1
what Benignity the Emperor had given them Audi-
ence at Tordesillas, together with the Noife the great
Wealth they brought had made in Spain; and of
the mighty Hopes already conceived of that Con-
queft, which was eſteemed preferable to all that had
been made before.
WITH his new Dignity, Diego Velasquez enter-
tained greater Thoughts. The Favours of the Pre-
fident made him bold and prefumptuous: And as
human Paffions increafe with Power, or it is their
Property to have the greateſt Command over the
moft powerful, the Governor believed himſelf en-
gaged more highly to reſent the Offence he had re-
ceived, and that his Envy was no more than a De-
fire of doing himſelf Juftice. The Applaufes given
to Cortes made him impatient and outragious; and
notwithſtanding he was not forry to fee the Con-
queft fo far advanced, (becauſe he ſtill preferved a
due Zeal for the Service of his Sovereign) yet he
could not bear that another ſhould receive the
Thanks, which, in his Opinion, were due to him
alone: So vain was he of the little Share he had in
the firſt Difpofition of that Enterprize, that, with-
out any other Foundation, he took to himfelf the
Name of Conqueror, and thought himſelf ſo much
Lord of the Whole, that he believed the very Ac-
tions by which the Conqueft was atchieved, to be
all his own.
UPON thefe Motives, and with theſe wrong No-
tions, he immediately prepared to form a Fleet and
Army for the Deſtruction of Cortes, and all thoſe
who had followed his Fortune: He bought Ships,
lifted Soldiers, and went in' Perfon over the whole
Inland, vifiting the Dwellings of the Spaniards, and
encouraging them to the Undertaking. He fet be-
fore them the Obligation they lay under to redreſs
his Injuries: He fhared with them before-hand the
immenfe
D 4
40
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
immenfe Riches of that Conqueft, which, as he ſaid,
was then ufurped by ill-adviſed Rebels, who, as
they had bafely made their Eſcapes from Cuba by
Flight, had left no Room to doubt of their Pufilla-
nimity. With thefe Hopes, and fome Expence,
(wherein he conſumed the greateſt Part of his Sub-
ſtance) he in a few Days got together a Body of
Men, which in thofe Parts of the World, both for
the Number and Quality of the People, might be
termed a formidable Army. It confifted of eight
hundred Spanish Foot, eighty Horſe, and ten or
twelve Pieces of Artillery, with Abundance of Pro-
vifions, Arms, and Ammunition. He appointed
for chief Commander of that Expedition, Pamphila
de Narvaez, a Native of Vallodolid, a Man of Ca-
pacity, and of the firſt Diſtinction in that Iſland, but
highly opinionated of himſelf, and obftinately pofi-
tive in his Refolutions. He gave him the Title of
his Lieutenant, naming himſelf, Governor at leaft,
of New Spain.
{
?
HE
He gave him likewife fecret Inftructions, in
which he ordered him, "That he ſhould endeavour,
ંદ to the utmoſt of his Power, to take. Cortes, and
“ſhould ſend him Priſoner to him under a ſtrong
r
Guard, that he might receive from his Hands
હૃદ the Punishment he had deferved: That he fhould
do the fame with the chief Officers who follow'd
him, in cafe they refufed to abandon his Intereſt:
And that he fhould take Poffeffion, in his Name,
of all that had been conquered, adjudging it to
"be all within his Diftrict, as the King's Lieute-
"nant." All this without reaſoning upon any Ac-
cidents which might happen; for at the Appearance
of fuch a Force, he thought he could eafily obtain
all that he propoſed; and Confidence (a Vice fami-
liar to the Paffionate) either looks at Dangers always
at
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
4I
at a Diſtance, or is infenfible of them till it fuffers
under the Difficulty.
THE Monks of St. Geronimo, who prefided over
the Royal Audience at St. Domingo, and over the
other Iſlands, with Supreme Jurifdiction, were in-
formed of theſe Preparations, and foreſeeing the In-
conveniences which might refult from ſo publick a
Competition, fent the Licentiate Lucas Vafquez de
Ayllon, Auditor of the fame Royal Audience, to
endeavour to bring Diego Velasquez to Reafon; and
if he found gentle Means infufficient, to acquaint
him with the Orders he carried; commanding him,
upon great Penalties, to difarm his People, and
unrig his Fleet, and not diſturb or give any Impe-
diment to the Conqueft in which Hernan Cortes was
employed, under the Colour of its belonging to
him, upon any Account or Pretence whatfoever:
And that in cafe he had any perfonal Complaint
againſt Cortes, or any Claim of Right to the Coun-
try he was then gaining for the King, he fhould
appear before the Royal Tribunal, where he fhould
be fure of having Juftice done him in a regular
Way.
THIS Minifter arrived at the Ifle of Cuba, where
he found the Fleet ready to fail, which confifted of
eleven tall Ships and feven fomewhat larger than
Brigantines, all in very good Order; and Diego
Velasquez bufily employed in forwarding the Em-
barkation of the Troops. The Licentiate did all he
poffibly could to reduce him to Reafon, making
Ufe of what Arguments he thought propereft to
perfuade him to defift from his Enterprize; repre-
fenting to him, "The Hazard to which he expofed
1
himfelf in cafe Cortes fhould ftand upon his De-
"fence, fupported by thofe Adventurers who fol-
lowed him, and were now intereſted in defend-
ing what they had acquired: The Damage that
66
ཁཞ
might
42
Book IV.
The HISTORY. of the
"might enfue when thoſe warlike Indians, newly
"conquered, fhould perceive a Civil War amongſt
"the Spaniards. And that if by this Mifunder-
"ftanding, a Conqueft on which they already fet
"fo great a Value in Spain, fhould be loft, he
"would riſk his Credit, without its being in the
"Power of thofe, who were moft inclined in his
"Favour, to defend him." Then he spoke on
the Part of the Royal Chamber, and endeavoured
to perfuade him, "To apply himſelf to the Tri-
"bunal, which would confider his Cafe with At-
"tention, if he did not difcredit it by this Act of
"Violence." And lastly, feeing him incapable of
Advice, for that every Thing which did not tend
towards the Deftruction of Hernan Cortes, feemed
to him utterly impracticable, he paffed on to the
judicial Part, fhewed his Orders, and caufed them
to be notified by an Efcrivano he had brought with
him for that Purpofe, accompanying them with di-
vers Requefts, and Proteftations. But nothing was
fufficient to ſtop his Refolution; for the Title of the
King's Lieutenant had fo raiſed him in his own Con-
ceit, that it feemed he would acknowledge no Su-
perior in his Governinent, and obftinately perfifted
in his untractable Humour. The Licentiate diffem-
bled fome Indecencies without directly contradict-
ing him, left he fhould render him more precipi-
tate; and feeing that he endeavoured to haften the
Embarkation of his People, he feigned a Defire of
beholding this Land fo much applauded and cried
up, and, under the Pretext of Curiofity, offered to
accompany them; to which Propofal Diego Velaf
quez eafily agreed, that the News of his Infolence
might come later to the lfle of Santo Domingo ;
whereupon he embarked, with the Approbation and
Good-liking of all. A Refolution which, whether
it proceeded from himſelf, or from his Inftructions,
feemed
Book IV.
43
Conquest of MEXICO.
feemed well judged, and convenient for the pre-
venting of any Breach amongſt the Spaniards. He
perfuaded himſelf, with fufficient Probability, that
when he was far diftant from Velasquez, he might
with more Eafe get his Orders obeyed, or that at
leaft his Mediation would be more powerful with
Pamphilo de Narvaez; and notwithſtanding his Pre-
fence was a new Inconveniency, (as we fhall fee
hereafter) his Zeal and good Intentions were nothing
the lefs meritorious: For though the Event does
not always anſwer the Means which are made ufe of
to make an Affair fucceed, yet this Effect of Chance
does not leffen the Merit of well-concerted Deſigns.
Andres de Duero that Secretary of Velasquez, who
favoured Cortes fo much in the Beginning of his
Fortune, likewife accompanied the Expedition.
Some fay he offered himſelf for this Voyage, purely
to fhare fome of the Wealth acquired, by remem-
bring Cortes of the Services he had formerly done
him; and others fay, his Intention was to mediate
with Narvaez, and prevent, as much as he could,
the Ruin of his Friend; which we rather chufe to
believe than the former, as being fenfible that it ill
becomes an Hiftorian to value himfelf upon ill-
natured Conjectures.
THE Fleet fet Sail, and, having a favourable
Wind, in a few Days got a Sight of the defired
Land. They came to an Anchor in the Port of Ulua,
and Pamphilo de Narvaez fent fome Soldiers afhore
to get Intelligence, and make what Diſcoveries they
could in the neighbouring Villages. Theſe were not
long before they furprized and took two or three
Spaniards, who were ſtraggling about that Place:
They brought them before their Commander; and
the Men, either fearful of fome Violence, or inclin'd
to Novelty, informed him of all that had paffed in
Mexico, and Vera-Cruz, feeking to flatter him by
difcrediting
44
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
difcrediting of Cortes. Upon this Intelligence, the
first Thing he refolved on was to treat with Gon-
zalo de Sandoval about the Surrender of the Fortrefs
under his Command, and engage him either to
maintain it for him, or to difmantle it, and with
his Garriſon to join the Army. He intrufted this
Negociation to a Clergyman he had brought with
him, named Juan Ruis de Guevara, a Man of a leſs
gentle Temper than his Profeffion required. There
went with him three Soldiers who ferved as Witneffes,
and a publick Notary, in cafe it fhould be found
neceffary to come to Terms of Notification. Gon-
zalo de Sandoval had his Centinels in proper Places to
obferve the Motions of the Fleet, and they gave
Advice from one to another, by which Means he
had an Account of their Approach a good while be-
fore they arrived: And being affure that there was
no greater Number to follow, he ordered the Gates
of the Town to be opened, and retired to wait their
Coming in his Lodgings: They arrived, and not
without Prefumption of being well received. The
Prieft, after the firft Civilities were over, and he
had delivered his Credentials to Sandoval, gave him
an Account of the Forces with which Pamphilo de
Narvaez was come to take Satisfaction for the In-
jury which Hernan Cortes had done to Diego Velaf-
quez, by withdrawing from his Obedience; the
Conqueft of that whole Country being intirely his
Property, as having been begun by his Order, and
at his Expence. He made the Propofal as a Point
of no Difficulty, and that had more than fufficient
Motives, and expected to receive Thanks for coming
to offer him fuch advantageous Conditions, in an
Affair fupported with fo much Force, and, as he
imagined, fo much Reafon. Gonzalo de Sandoval
anfwered him with fome Warmth, which he could
not well conceal, "That Pamphilo de Narvaez was
..
" his
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
45
"his Friend, and fo prudent and loyal a Subject
"of the King's, that he would certainly defire no-
thing but what fhould be moſt advantageous
"and convenient for his Majefty's Service: That
"the prefent Juncture of Affairs, and the State in
"which the Conqueft was at that Time, required
"that he fhould join his Forces with thofe of Cortes,
"and affift him to perfect that which was now in
"fuch Forwardnefs, taking Care firſt of their prin-
cipal Obligation; for that the Quarrels and Ani-
"mofities of private Perfons were not, at the King's
Expence, to be decided by a Civil War: But
"that if Narvaez, preferring his own private Re-
66
66
<c
venge to the publick Intereft, defigned any Man-
"ner of Violence against Hernan Cortes, he might
"from that Moment be affured, that not only him-
"felf, but all the Soldiers of that Garriſon, would
"rather chufe to die fighting by his Side, than
& ever agree to fo bafe and difhonourable an Action."
The Priest received this Repulfe, as an unexpected
Stroke; and being more accuſtomed to fuffer him-
felf to be governed by his Paffion than to reprefs it,
he broke out into injurious Language and Threats
againſt Hernan Cortes, calling him Traitor; and
went fo far as to fay, that Gonzalo de Sandoval, and
all who efpoufed that Traitor's Intereſt, deſerved no
better Title themfelves. They all endeavoured to
bring him to Reaſon, and within the Bounds of Mo-
deration, putting him in Mind of his Frofeffion,
that he might be fenfible at leal of the Confidera
tion upon which they bore with him. But ie, raifing
his Voice, without changing his Style, commanded
the Eſcrivano, or Notary, he had brought with him,
to publiſh the Orders he had,
"That all might
"know that they were to pay Obedience to Nar-
GC vaez, on Pain of Death." But this was what
could not be put in Execution; for Gonzalo de San-
deval
46
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
doval told the Efcrivano plainly, "That he would
"order him immediately to be hanged, if he pre-
"fumed to publifh any Orders which did not come
"from the King." In fhort, the Difpute rofe to
that Height, that Sandoval commanded the Mef-
fengers to be feized and taken into Cuftody. But
foon after, reflecting with himſelf upon the Mif-
chief they might do, if they returned exafperated to
Narvaez, he refolved to fend them Prifoners to
Mexico, that Hernan Cortes might ſecure them there,
or endeavour to reduce them. This Determination
he inftantly put in Execution, providing Indians of
Burthen, who carried them Prifoners upon their
Shoulders in a fort of Chairs, which they uſed inſtead
of Litters. There went with them, as Commander
of the Guard, a Spaniard he much confided in,
whofe Name was Pedro de Solis, whom he charged
not to offer them any Injury, or ill Treatment upon
the Road. Sandoval diſpatched a Courier before,
to give an Account to Cortes, and took Care to get
his People in a Readineſs, called together his In-
dian Friends for the Defence of the Place, difpofing
every Thing as became a vigilant and careful Cap-
tain.
IT cannot be denied, but that he exerted the Mi-
litary Power too far in the Impriſonment of an Ec-
clefiaftick, unleſs he did it with political Views;
confidering that it would be very inconvenient to
have a Perfon of fo violent and precipitate a Dif
pofition near Narvaez, when they were to endea-
vour to bring Matters to an Accommodation, which
was ſo very neceffary. It may be prefumed, that, in
this Refolution, if he had one Eye turned towards
his own private Refentment, he had the other upon
the publick Advantage: And if he acted with this
laſt View, (as his firſt Calmneſs ſeems to perfuade
us, when he fuffered the Prieft's Heat, and fhew'd
him
Book IV. Conquest of MEx rc o.
47
him all due Refpect) then indeed his Conduct ought
not to be wholly condemned, becauſe in fome Part
of it he wanted a little Moderation; for fometimes,
when a Man is warmed, he goes through with what
otherwife he could never have brought about; and
in fuch Cafes Anger fervés to give Life to Prudence.
!
CH A P. VI.
The Precautions of Hernan Cortes to avoid a
Rupture. He makes Overtures of Peace,
which are rejected by Narvaez, who, on the
contrary, proclaims War, and feizes the
Perfon of the Licentiate Lucas Vafquez de
Ayllon.
HER
ERNAN CORTES received frequent Ad-
vices of all theſe Particulars, which plainly con-
firmed what before he only fufpected: And fome
little Time after, he understood, that Pamphilo de
Narvaez had landed, and marched with his Army
directly for Zempoala. This News made him very
uneafy, dubious, and irrefolute what Meaſures he
was to take, and plainly fenfible of the Inconve-
niences he lay under. He could think of no Way
that was not attended with ill Confequences. To
feek Narvaez in the Field with fuch unequal Forces,
was Temerity; more particularly when he was
to leave in Mexico a Part of his People to cover
the Quarters, defend their acquired Treafure, and
keep up that kind of Guard which Motezuma fuf-
fered himſelf to be under: To expect his Enemy in
the City, was the certain Way to ftir up feditious
Humours, with which the Mexicans were already but
too
48
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
1
too much infected, and to furniſh them with a fair
Opportunity of taking to their Arms under the
ſpecious Pretext of Self-Defence, and by that Means
have another Danger at his Back. To make Over-
tures of Peace to Narvaez, and follicite the Union
of their reſpective Forces, was indeed the whole-
fomeſt and moſt convenient Method of proceeding,
but appear'd the moft difficult; confidering the
Perverſeneſs and the Obftinacy of the Man's Tem-
per he had to deal with, whom he defpair'd to
bring to Reaſon, tho' he ſhould condefcend even
to fue for his Friendſhip, which as yet he had not
refolv'd upon; becauſe a fubmiffive Condefcenfion
feldom gains upon an infolent and obftinate Difpo-
fition, and in Propofals of Peace makes but a very
indifferent Figure. He confider'd the total Lofs
of his Conqueft; the Difappointment of thofe great
Beginnings; the Caufe of Religion neglected; the
King's Intereft trod under Foot; and, what moſt
of all concern'd him was, to find himſelf oblig'd
to feign Security and Content, fhewing a Calm in
his Countenance whilft his Breaft was agitated by a
furious Tempeſt.
To Motezuma he faid, "That thofe newly ar-
"riv'd Spaniards were Vaffals to the King his Ma-
❝fter, and had brought a Second Embaffy, to
<c
fupport the Propofition he had already made:
"That they came with an Army, according to
"the Cuftom of their Nation; but that he would
"endeavour to difpofe them to return, and would
"himſelf go along with them, as having now
"receiv'd his full Difpatches, fince his Majefty's
"Generofity and Bounty had left nothing for thoſe
"new Comers to defire, they having no other Pro-
pofals to make but what he himſelf had already
"made and obtain’d.”
હ
HIS
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO49
ME
.
66
ર
His Soldiers he encourag'd with various fallaci-
ous Suppofitions, telling them, "That Narvaez
"was his very good Friend, and a Perfon of fuch
"Honour, Integrity, and good Senfe, that he
"would not fail of hearing Reafon, and would in-
fallibly prefer the Service of God and his Sove-
reign to the Intereſt of a private Man: That
Diego Velafquez had difpeopled the Iſland of
"Cuba purely to gratify his revengeful Temper;
"and, in his Opinion, he had fent him a freſh
Supply of Spaniards wherewith to profecute his
"Conqueft; for he did not in the leaft doubt, but
"he fhould make Fellow-Soldiers and Compa-
"nions of thofe who were fent against him as
"Enemies."
CC
WITH his Captains he was lefs referv'd. He
communicated to them Part of his Sufpicions, and
reafon'd, by Way of Prevention, upon the Ac-
cidents which might offer: He reprefented to them
the fmall Skill Narvaez had in Military Affairs;
the Rawneſs of his Men; the Injuftice of his Caufe,
and other Motives of Encouragement, in which
he conceal'd his real Sentiments, giving them, in
Truth, more Hopes than he had himſelf.
LASTLY, He afk'd their Opinion, (as he was
always accuftom'd to do in Cafes of like Impor-
tance) and diſpoſing their Minds after ſuch a Man-
ner that they ſhould adviſe him to what he thought
beſt, he refolv'd first to try to bring Matters to am
Accommodation, and to make fuch Propoſals to
Narvaez that he fhould not be able to refufe his
offers without charging himſelf with all the Incon-
veniencies of a Rupture: But at the fame Time he
made Proviſion for the War, according to his
wonted Diligence. He fent to his Friends of Tlaf-
cala to get ready Six Thoufand Soldiers for an
Enterprize in which it was poffible he might want
VOL. II.
E
their
50
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
their Service. He order'd an Officer (who with
Three or Four Spanish Soldiers, were in the Pro-
vince of Chinantla to difcover the Mines of that
Part of the Country) to endeavour to difpofe the
Çaziques to a Levy of other Two Thousand Men,
and that they fhould have them ready to march
with him at the firft Notice. The Chinantecas
were Enemies to the Mexicans, and had declar'd
themſelves for the Spaniards with Signs of great
Sincerity, and had fent privately to offer them
their Obedience. They were a valiant and warlike
People, and with whom he thought it would re-
dound very much to his Advantage to reinforce
his Army And recollecting, that he had heard the
Lances which they us'd in their Wars highly com-
mended, as being confiderably longer than ours,
and made of a very tough Wood, he ordered Three
Hundred to be brought, to divide amongſt his
Soldiers, and arm'd them with Points of temper'd
Copper, which fufficiently ſupplied the want of
Iron; and this was his firft Precaution, both be-
cauſe the Cavalry of Narvaez gave him no fmall
Uneafineſs, and becauſe he had a Mind to have
Time to inftruct his Men in the Ufe and Manage-
ment of thofe Arms.
In the mean while Pedro de Solis arriv'd with the
Priſoners fent by Gonzalo de Sandoval, and fending
Notice to Cortes, expected his Orders at the Side
of the Lake: But Cortes, who had been before in-
form'd of their coming, went out to receive them
with more than ordinary Attendance. He imme-
diately order'd their Fetters to be taken off, em-
brac'd them with great Humanity, and the Licen-
tiate Guevara, more than once, with particular
Civility, telling him, "That he would chaftife
"Gonzalo de Sandoval for the little Regard he had
fhewn to his Perfon and Dignity." He after-
wards
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
51
wards conducted him to his own Appartment, gave
him his Table, and with a ſeeming Satisfaction, in-
timated ſeveral times," how much he esteem'd
"the Happineſs of having Pamphilo de Narvaez in
"that Country, on Account of the paft Friendſhip
"and Intimacy that had been between them." He
took Care that the Spaniards fhould all appear
chearful and hearty before him. He made him a
Witneſs of the Favours he received from Mote-
zuma, and the great Refpect with which he was
treated by the Mexican Princes. He prefented him
with fome Jewels of Value, which greatly mol-
lify'd the Violence of his Temper. He did the
fame by his Companions; and without letting them
know that he ftood in Need of their good Offices
to incline Narvaez to Peace, he difpatch'd them
in four Days, fully perfuaded by his Reaſons, and
engag'd by his Liberality and courteous Treat-
ment.
AFTER he had taken theſe politick Meaſures,
leaving it to Time to ripen and to produce the Ef-
fect, he refolv'd to fend fome Perfon of Account
to make fuch Propoſals to Narvaez, as were rea-
fonable and convenient for the common Intereft
and the Service of the King; and for this Negoti-
ation he chofe Fryer Bartolomè de Olmedo, a Per-
fon of known Integrity, Wifdom, and Eloquence,
and ſupported by the Dignity of his Character.
He haften'd as much as poffible his Difpatches,
and gave him Letters for Navaez, for the Licen-
tiate Lucas Vafquez de Ayllon, and for the Secretary
Andres de Duero, with feveral Jewels to diftribute
as he fhould think proper. The Importance of a
Peace was the Argument of thoſe Letters; in that
to Narvaez, He courteously bad him welcome to
thoſe Coaſts, with Expreffions of fingular Reſpect
and Efteem: And after reminding him of their
former
E 2
52
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
66
66
«zuma.
former Friendship and Intimacy, "He inform'd
"him of the State of his Conqueft; acquainting
him, at large, with the Provinces he had fub-
jected; the Sagacity and martial Genius of the
People and the Power and Grandeur of Mote-
This he did, not fo much to magnify
his own Actions, as to make Narvaez fenfible how
much it imported them all to unite their Forces
for compleating the Enterprize which was in fo
great a Forwardneſs. He gave him likewife to
underſtand, "How much they ought to fear, left
"the Mexicans, a confiderate and warlike Nation,
"fhould come to the Knowledge of any Mifunder-
&6
ftanding amongſt the Spaniards; for that they
"would very well know how to make their Ad-
"vantage, and deftroy both Parties, to free them-
"felves from a foreign Yoke." And, laftly, he
"told him, That, to prevent all Difputes and
"Accidents, it was abfolutely neceffary, that,
"without farther Delay, he ſhould acquaint him
"with the Orders he brought; for if they were
"from the King, he was ready to obey them,
<<
give up his General's Staff, and the Army under
"his Command: But if his Commiffion was only
" from Diego Velafquez, they ought both of them
to confider with equal Attention, how much
they adventured; for that in any Difpute where
"the King's Interest was concerned, the Preten-
"fions of a Vaffal were but of fmall Weight, and
60
<6
66
might be adjuſted at a cheaper Rate; it being
"his Defign to fatisfy Velasquez for all the Expence
"he had been at in fitting out the firft Fleet, and
' to divide with him not only the Profits but the
very Glory of the Conqueft." After this Man-
ner he concluded his Letter; but thinking he had
dwelt too long upon the Article of Accommoda-
tion, he added, by Way of Poftfcript, fome brifk
Expreffions,
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
53
Expreffions, letting him know, "That he did not
"make Uſe of Arguments becauſe he wanted
"Force; and that he knew as well how to defend,
"as how to propofe them.
PAMPHILO DE NARVAEZ had taken up his Quar-
ter, and lodged his Army in Zempoala; and the
fat Cazique was very careful and fedulous in the
Entertainments of, and Attendance upon thoſe Spa-
niards, believing they came as a Succour to his
Friend Hernan Cortes; but it was not long before
he was undeceived: For he did not find in them
the fame Manner of Carriage to which he had been
accuſtomed by his former Guefts; and notwith-
ftanding they had with them no Interpreter to make
themſelves be underſtood, their Actions fpoke, and
their Proceedings fufficiently diftinguiſhed them.
He diſcover'd in Narvaez an imperious ill-natured
Difpofition, which gave him great Sufpicion; and
he had no room to doubt when he faw him take
by Force all the Furniture and Jewels which Her-
nan Cortes had left in his Houfe. The Soldiers,
to whom the Liberty their Commander took, ferv'd
for an Example, treated their Hofts like Enemies,
and put in Practice whatever Avarice, and a licen-
tious Thirſt for Rapine, could dictate.
THE Licentiate Guevara foon after arrived, and
related the Succefs of his Journey; the Grandeur
and Magnificence of Mexico; how well Hernan
Cortes was received in that Court; how much he
was beloved by Motezuma, and refpected by his
Vaffals: He extolled the Humanity and Courtefy
with which he had received and entertained him;
and from that he paffed on to what Cortes ſo ear-
neftly defir'd, "That it might not be known that
"there was any Mifunderſtanding among the Spa-
"niards." But when he was going to propofe an
Accommodation, he could not profecute his Dif-
E 3
courfe
54
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
courſe, for Narvaez cut him fhort, telling him,
"That he might return to Mexico, if the Artifices
"of Cortes had made fo mighty an Impreffion
upon him;" and thruft him from his Prefence
with great Rudenefs and Difrefpect. But the Prieft
and his Companions faught a new Auditory; paff-
ing with their News and Prefents, to the Affemblies
of the Soldiers, and obtain'd what most of all im-
ported the Care and Diligence of Cortes; for fome
were moved by the Reaſonableneſs of his Argu-
ments; others by his Liberality, and all remained
difpofed to Peace, the moft part beginning to have
a Sufpicion of the ill Temper of Narvaez, from
his preſent Obftinacy.
FATHER Bartholomé de Olmedo foon followed Gue-
wara, and found in Pamphilo de Narvaez much
more Pride and Haughtiness than Good Nature
and Humanity. He deliver'd his Letters, and the
other having read them out of Compliment, and
with the Air of one who puts a Conftraint upon
himfelf, difpos'd himſelf to hear what he had to
fay; giving him to underſtand, That he fuffered
the Embaffy purely for the Sake of the Ambaſſa-
dor. The Father's Harangue was eloquent, ex-
preffive, and ſubſtantial. He began with the
"
Obligations of his Profeffion, to interpofe him-
"felf as a difintereſted Mediator in thefe Diffe-
rences;" endeavoured to fet forth the Sincerity
of Cortes, as an Eye-Witneſs to all his Proceedings,
and bound to ſpeak the Truth. Next he affured
him, That it would be no difficult Matter for
him to obtain any Thing that fhould be pro-
46
"6
pos'd, provided it was reafonable, and for the
"Service of the King." Then he reprefented,
"What a Hazard they ran by thofe Mifunder-
ftandings; and what an extraordinary Advantage
it would be to Diego Velafquez, if he would co-
operate
ર
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
55
<<
<<
66
operate with theſe Forces to compleat the Con-
queft; and added, "That having them at his
"Command, he ought to weigh the Ufe he was
"to put them to with the prefent State of Affairs;
a Point which must be prefuppos'd in his In-
"ftructions; fince it was always left to the Diſcre-
"tion of the Captain, to chufe the Means by
"which he was to obtain the End propos'd: And
"a Commander was always obliged to act ac-
"cording to the Times and Accidents, left in the
"Execution of his Orders he ſhould deftroy the
"Intention thereof.'
te
<<
CC
66
THE Anſwer of Narvaez was precipitate and
confus'd; he ſaid, "That it did not become Diego
Velasquez to make Conditions with a rebellious
"Subject, whofe Chaftifement was the firft and
"principal Bufinefs of that Army: That he would
immediately proclaim for Traytors all thoſe who
efpous'd the Intereſt of that Rebel; and that he
"had brought fufficient Force to take the Conqueft
out of his Hands, without having any Occafion
"for the Advice of thofe who, being equally
guilty, made ufe of the fame Reafon to perfuade
"him which they had to fear him." Father Bar-
tholomé, ftill preferving his Temper, replyed, "That
"he fhould confider well, what he intended to do;
"for before he arrived at Mexico, he would find
"whole Provinces of warlike Indians, Friends and
"Confederates to Cortes, who would not fail to
"take up Arms in his Defence; and that it would
66
(c
not be fo eaſy to fupprefs him as he imagin'd,
"fince his Spaniards were all refolutely determin-
"ed to dye with him; and befides, he had Mote-
' zuma on his Side; a Prince fo powerful, that
"for every fingle Soldier he had brought with
"him, he was able to raiſe a numerous Army."
And lastly he told him, "That an Affair of this
"Nature
E 4
5.6
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Nature was not to be refolved in Hafte, but requi-
"red Deliberation, and a ſecond Reflection; adding,
"That he would return for his final Anfwer,"
WITH this Bravado the Father took his Leave,
for he thought it was neceffary to abate that Con-
fidence Narvaez had placed in his Forces, on which
he chiefly founded his Obftinacy.
He proceeded prefently to put in Execution the
other Part of his Inftructions. He vifited the Li-
centiate Lucas Vafquez de Ayllon, and the Secretary
Andres de Duero, who highly commended his Zeal,
approving what he had propos'd to Narvaez, and
offering to affift in his Difpatches with their utmoſt
Power, in order to eſtabliſh a Peace, which was fo
very neceffary to all. Then the Father vifited the
Captains and Soldiers of his Acquaintance; pub
lifhed his Commiffion; endeavoured to fupport
the good Intention of Cortes; made them all defi-
rous of a Reconciliation; diftributed the Jewels and
other Curiofities he had in Charge with good Judg-
ment, and had Reaſon to hope that there would be
a Party formed in favour of Cortes, or at leaſt in
Favour of an Accommodation, had not Pamphilo
de Narvaez, who had Notice of theſe Practices,
put a Stop to his Proceeding. He ordered him
to be brought before him, loaded him with Injuries
and Threats, called him a mutinous and feditious
Traytor, giving the Name of Treafon to his found-
ing amongst his People the Praifes of Cortes, and
was determined to have fecured his Perfon, had
not the Secretary Andres de Duero interpofed, at
whofe Inftances he alter'd his Mind, and com-
manded him immediately to depart from Zem-
poala.
BUT the Licentiate Lucas Vafquez de Ayllon, be-
ing informed of what paffed, came very feafon-
ably and gave his Opinion, That it would be
66 proper
✔
Book IV.
57
Conquest of MEXICO.
66
<6
proper firſt to affemble all the Officers, that they
might confider more deliberately what Anſwer
"ſhould be returned to Hernan Cortes, fince he
"fhewed himſelf difpofed to Peace; and it feem'd
66
no difficult Matter to bring it about upon Terms
"reaſonable and advantageous to all." To which
Propofal were very much inclined fome of the Of-
ficers who were prefent: But Narvaez heard him
with a fort of Impatience which favoured fome-
what of Contempt; and in order to ſtop all their
Mouths at once, he, before them all, made a folemn
Declaration of War, with Fire and Sword, againſt
Hernan Cortes, caufing the fame to be publickly
proclaimed, pronouncing him a Rebel and a Traitor
to the King, affigning a confiderable Reward to any,
who ſhould either take or kill him, and giving Or-
ders that the Army fhould prepare to march.
BUT that Minifter, not being able to endure thoſe
Irregularities, and who was indeed obliged to put
a Stop to fuch violent Proceedings by his own Au-
thority, commanded the Cryer to defift, caufing it
to be fignified to Narvaez," That he fhould not
"ftir a Foot from Zempoala upon Pain of Death,
<6
nor employ thofe Forces without the unanimous
"Conſent of the whole Army." He commanded
the Captains and Soldiers not to obey him, and per-
fifted in his Protefts, and in exerting his Authority
with fuch Reſolution, that Narvaez, quite out of
Patience, blind with Choler, and lofing all Refpect
to his Perfon and Function, ordered him to be ig-
nominiouſly apprehended, and immediately carried
away on board one of his Veffels to the Iſland of
Cuba. Upon which Fryer Bartholomé de Olmedo re-
turned very much fcandalized without any farther
Anfwer; and his own Captains and Soldiers them-
felves were fo highly incenfed, that the moſt Intel-
ligent, feeing a Minifter of that Rank and Character
arreſted
58
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
}
arreſted, found themſelves obliged to confider pri-
vately of fome Meaſures for the Service of the King;
and thoſe of lefs Judgment had Matter fufficient for
Difaffection and Murmuring againſt their Captain.
This Infolence of Narvaez gave the Affairs of Cortes
a happy Turn, confirming him in the good Opinion
of the Soldiers; and the falfe Steps and Mifma-
nagement of his Enemy ferved to raiſe his Reputa-
tion as much as the Prudence of his own Conduct.
CHA P. VII.
Motezuma continues his good Offices toward
Cortes and his Spaniards. The Alteration
which fome attribute to the Practices of
Narvaez looked upon as fictitious and impro-
bable. Cortes refolves to depart, and executes
that Refolution, leaving a Part of his Force
S
in Mexico.
OME of our Writers report, That Pamphilo de
Narbox held a
Narvaez held a Correfpondence of great Inti-
macy and Friendſhip with Motezuma; that Couriers
went and came from Mexico to Zempoala, by whoſe
Means he gave the Emperor to underſtand, "That
"he brought a Commiffion from the King of Spain
"to chaftife the Violences and Exorbitances of Cor-
<< tes. That not only that Captain, but all thoſe
"who followed his Banners, were Fugitives and
"Rebels; and that having underſtood how greatly
"his Majefty was oppreffed, he propofed imme-
66
diately to march with his Army, in order to re-
"ftore him to his Liberty, and the peaceable Pof
* feffion of his Dominions ;" with other the like
malicious
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
59
malicious Impoſtures. To which they add, That
Motezuma charmed with thoſe Hopes, not only car-
ried on a friendly Correfpondence with him, but
alſo made him feveral great and valuable Prefents,
concealing the Matter from Cortes, and defiring to
break his Priſon by clandeftine Practices.
We know not how this Intelligence could ever
come to Motezuma: For Narvaez had no Interpre-
ters to make himſelf underſtood amongſt the In-
dians, and fuch a concerted Negotiation could never
be carried on by Signs and Dumb-Shew. None of
his Spaniards came to Mexico, except the Licentiate
Guevara, and his Companions, which Sandoval fent;
and theſe had never any private Conference with
Motezuma. And even had Cortes been guilty of
fuch a Piece of Negligence, they could not poffibly
have been intelligible to each other without making
ufe of Aguilar or of Donna Marina; a Suppofition
wholly inconfiftent with what is related of their un-
tainted Fidelity. We muft believe then, that the
Indians of Zempoala knew by their Behaviour, Coun-
tenances, and other exterior Tokens, the Enmity
and Oppofition between thofe two Armies, of which
Intelligence was fent to Motezuma by his Confidents
and Minifters; fince it is not in the leaft to be
doubted but that he had the Account before it was
imparted to him by Cortes: But from his Actions
it plainly appears, That he kept his Mind inviola-
bly firm, and was wholly free from any underhand
Deſign againſt the Spaniards of Mexico.
It is not denied but that the Emperor fent fome
Prefents of Value to Narvaez; but it cannot be
concluded from thence that there was a Correfpon-
dence between them: For thefe Mexican Princes
were accuſtomed fo to regale all Strangers who hap-
pened to touch on their Coafts, as Motezuma had
done to Cortes and his Followers; and he might
conceal
60
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
conceal, without Artifice, that Inftance of his Li-
berality, as being agreeable to an eſtabliſhed Cuſtom,
or, perhaps, to avoid Oftentation in his Generofity.
But it is obfervable, that in thofe very Gifts, whe-
ther concealed or otherwife, there were fome cafual
Circumftances, which turned to the Credit of Cortes;
for upon the Receipt of them, Narvaez expreffed
more Attachment to them than was becoming; for
after he had counted them over with great Exact-
neſs, he ordered them to be fet afide with ſuper-
abundant Care, without making the leaft Shew of
Liberality to his greateſt Confidents. And the Sol-
diers (who though never fenfible of their own infa-
tiable Avarice, never fail to condemn it in their
Generals) began to be difpirited with this Difap-
pointment of their Hopes; and mixing their own
proper Intereſts amongſt the Cauſes of the prefent
Divifions, they judged Cortes had the moſt Reaſon
on his Side, as being the moft liberal and generous.
FATHER Bartolome de Olmedo at length returned
from his Journey, and Hernan Cortes found in his
Relation all that he fufpected of Narvaez. He was
not fo much concerned on his own Account, at
the Contempt fhewed of the Propofals he had made
as he was on Account of the Undertaking. He
was fenfible, by the Imprifonment of the Auditor
Lucas Vafquez de Ayllon, what little Regard muſt be
had to the King's Service, by a Man who could
carry his Infolence to fuch a Length. He heard
without Refentment, (at leaſt outwardly) the inju-
rious and reviling Language with which his Ad-
verfary treated him: And Authors do with Juſtice
very much commend his Moderation, that when he
received Advice from feveral Hands of the Con-
tempt with which he spoke of his Perfon, the In-
decencies and Bitterneſs of his Reflections, and how
often he took the Liberty to brand him with the
infamous
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
61
infamous Name of Traitor, he was never heard to
utter an unfeemly Expreffion, or to call Pamphilo de
Narvaez by any other than his own Name. A rare
Conftancy, and a Maſtery of the Paffions worthy
to be envied to receive Outrages, and at the fame
Time preferve Moderation!
GREATLY did Cortes comfort himſelf with the
News which Father Bartholemé de Olmedo brought
him, of the good Difpofition he found in the People
of Narvaez, who for the moft Part were defirous of
Peace, and but little affected to the Opinion of their
Commander; fo that he did not doubt but that he
ſhould be able to face him as an Enemy, and bring
him to the Terms he defired, either by Force, or
the Difaffection of his own Soldiers. He commu-
nicated his Thoughts to his Officers, and having
jointly and maturely confidered the Inconveniences
on all Sides, they held it for the leaft hazardous
to take the Field with all the Troops they could
poffibly affemble, to incorporate the Indians who
were ready provided in Tlafcala and Chinantla, and
afterwards to march in a Body towards Zempoala ;
but with a Refolution to halt in fome confederate
Town, where they might be nearer at hand to treat
of Peace, have the Advantage of capitulating with
Arms in their Hands, and the Conveniency of be-
ing in a Place where they might pick up fuch of
the People of Narvaez as fhould determine to quit
his Party. This Refolution was immediately pub-
liſhed amongſt the Soldiers, and received with great
Applaufe and Chearfulneís. They were not igno-
rant of the great Inequality of Number between
them and the contrary Party; but they were ſo far
from entertaining the leaft Thoughts of Fear, that
even thoſe who had leaft Bravery and Zeal difputed
the Glory in ferving in this Expedition; and it was
neceffary to make Ufe both of Intreaties and Au-
thority,
62
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
thority, when the Time came to name thofe who
were to be left in Mexico, fo great was the Confi-
dence they had fixed, fome in the Prudence and
Conduct, others in the Intrepidity and Valour, but
all in general in the good Fortune of their Com-
mander; for fo they termed that extraordinary and
uninterrupted Series of Succefs with which he was
wont to accomplish whatfoever he took in Hand.
And fuch a Conftancy of Succeſs has great Force
on the Minds of Soldiers, and would have ftill
greater if they knew how to attribute to their true
Author thoſe unlooked-for Events which are called
good Fortune, becauſe they proceed from a Caufe
not underſtood.
HERNAN CORTES, provided with various Pre-
tences, repaired immediately to Motezuma's Apart-
ment, to give him an Account of his intended
March, concealing, as much as poffible, his inward
Concern: But the Emperor obliged him to give a
new Turn to his Difcourfe by beginning the Con-
verfation, and faying," That he had for fome
"Time obferved him to be very thoughtful, and
"was concerned that he ſhould conceal from him
"the Caufe of his Difcontent; for he had from
"different Parts received Information, That the
Spanish General refiding in Zempoala, came with
"bad Intentions againſt him and his Followers;
"that he did not fo much wonder that they fhould
હ
be Enemies for fome perfonal Prejudice, and
"private Miſunderſtanding, as that, being Vaffals
σε to the fame Prince, they ſhould head two Ar-
"mies of contrary Factions, by which it plainly
"appeared, that one of them muft of Neceffity
"be a Rebel to his Sovereign."
THIS unexpected Account from Motezuma, and
his Reaſoning in the Conclufion of it, might have
embarraffed Cortes; nor did it fail to fhock him
in
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
63
in fome Meaſure: But with that natural Prompti-
tude with which he was always accuſtomed to dif
engage himſelf upon fuch Occafions, he anſwered
without Hefitation, "That thoſe who had made
"their Obfervations upon the bad Intentions of
"thofe Spaniards, and the imprudent Menaces of
"their unadviſed Commander, had informed him
"of no other than the Truth, and he now came
"with a Defign to communicate the fame to him,
$6
having not had it in his Power to comply fooner
"with this Obligation, becauſe Father Bartholomé
"de Olmedo was but juſt arrived with the News.
"That notwithſtanding the Spaniſh Captain, who
86
was at Zempoala, had given fome Proofs of a
"diforderly Paffion, yet he was not to be looked
66 upon as a Rebel, but rather as a Perfon deceived,
"who imagined he was ferving his Prince while
"he was doing the Reverfe; for he came thither
"in Quality of a Subſtitute, or Lieutenant, from a
"mifinformed Governor, who refiding in a very
"remote Province, was not acquainted with the
"laft Refolutions of the Court of Spain, and was
perfuaded that the Embaffy in which himſelf was
"employed was an Affair belonging to his Office.
"But that all the Preparations to fupport fo fri-
"volous a Fretenfion would eaſily vaniſh, without
any farther Trouble than his laying before that
"Lieutenant his Difpatches, by Virtue of which
"he had full Power and Jurifdiction over all the
Spaniards, both Officers and others, who fhould
"arrive upon thofe Coafts: And that therefore,
"before his Ignorance and Miſinformation fhould
66
ingage him to take any farther falfe Steps, he
"had refolved to direct his March to Zempoala,
"with Part of his Forces, to diſpoſe thoſe Spani-
"ards to return to their Ships; and that he would
"make them ſenſible, that they were now to re-
ſpect
64
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
t
c ſpect the Subjects of the Mexican Empire as a
People under the Protection of the King of Spain:
"That he would immediately put this in Execu-
"tion; the principal Motive of haſtening his De-
σε parture being the juft Confideration of prevent-
ing them from approaching his Court, that Army
being compofed of Men too little difciplined to
"be admitted into his Neighbourhood, without
running the Hazard of occafioning fome Diſtur-
"bance amongſt his Vaffals."
6C
66
AFTER this Manner Cortes endeavoured, as well
as he could, to intereft that Prince in his Refolu-
tion; and Motezuma, who already knew the Vexa-
tions of which the Zempoalans complained, com-
mended his Deſign; holding it expedient, that he
ſhould endeavour to keep at a Diſtance from the
Court, Troops guilty of fuch violent and irregular
Proceedings: But it appeared to him as an Act of
Temerity in Cortes, that fince thofe Spaniards
had already declared themſelves his Enemies, and
were fo disproportionately fuperior to him in Force,
he ſhould expofe himſelf to the Hazard of being not
regarded and deftroyed by them. He offered to
furniſh him with an Army that ſhould ſupport him,
the Leaders whereof fhould be under his Com-
mand, and intirely at his Devotion, fince he would
give them ſtrict Orders to refpect and obey him as
they would do himſelf if he went in Perfon: A Point
which he repeated, and with many Inſtances ear-
neftly infifted upon, by which he gave convincing
Proofs of his Sincerity and Affection, without any
Mixture of Fallacy or Affectation. Hernan Cortes
thanked him for his Offer, but excufed himſelf from
accepting it; for in reality he placed but a flender
Confidence in the Mexicans; neither did he care
to run the Hazard of admitting Auxiliary Forces
which might command him; as one who well knew
how
Book IV. Conquest of Mexico.
65
how embarraffing it was in Actions of War, to have
at once the Front engaged, and the Flanks ex-
pofed:
THE Motives of his Journey being after this
Manner foftened, he next imployed his whole Care
in the neceffary Preparations for his fetting out, re-
folving to make Ufe of the Intelligence he had with
the Soldiers of Narvaez before this latter fhould
take the Field. He determined to leave in Mexicó
eighty Spaniards under the Command of Pedro de
Alvarado, which in the Opinion of all was moft pru-
dently refolved; becauſe that Officer was highly in
Motezuma's Favour, and befides his being a Gen-
tleman of great Courage and good Senfe, had the
Advantage of being an accompliſhed Courtier, and
was naturally of a free ingaging Behaviour; fo that
with all the Refolution that was neceffary to over-
come the greateſt Difficulties, he could likewife
have Recourfe to Policy when he found Strength
was not fufficient. The General gave him in Charge,
"That he fhould do his utmoft to keep Motezuma
"in that kind of Liberty which might make him
"infenfible of his Confinement, and fhould pre-
<c
vent, as much as poffible, his having any long
"Conferences with the Mexicans." He left under
his Care all the Treafure, as well that belonging to
the King his Sovereign, as to particular Perfons;
and above all, he made him fenfible," how much
"it imported to keep that Part of his Forces in the
"Mexican Court, and that Prince at his Devotion;
"that being the Point to which he ought to direct
"all his Actions, as the Foundation of their com-
mon Security.'
*
وو
To the Soldiers he gave Orders, "That they
"fhould obey their Captain, and ferve, and refpect
"Motezuma with greater Diligence, Circumfpection,
and Submiffion than ever; and that they fhould
VOL. II.
F
66
of be
3
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
66
be careful of maintaining an amicable Correfpon-
"dence with thofe of his Family and Court:" Ex-
horting them, for their own Security, to Union
among themſelves, and Civility towards others.
He difpatched a Courier to Gonzalo de Sandoval,
with Orders, "That he fhould march out to meet
him, or, with the Spaniards under his Command,
"wait his coming at the Place where he propofed
56
6 C
to halt, leaving the Fortrefs of Vera-Cruz to the
"Care of the Confederate Indians;" which, in
Effect, was little leſs than abandoning it. But it
was now Time to think of dividing his Forces,
neither would that Fortification, which was built
only to keep off the Indians, be capable of refifting
the Spaniards if they had a Mind to attack it. He
took Care of what Provifions were neceffary, that
he might not have them to feek, or be forced to
extort them from the Peaſants. He procured a
Body of Indians of Burthen, who were to carry the
Baggage; and the next Day being fixed upon for
the March, he ordered High-Mafs to be celebrated,
whereat he commanded, that all the Soldiers fhould
be prefent, in order to recommend to God the
good Succefs of their Enterprize; proteſting before
the Altar," That he defired nothing but to do
"Service to God and his King, which in that
66
Juncture were infeparable: That he went without
"Hatred, or Ambition, having his Duty only in
"View, and was affured that the Juftice of his
"Caufe would plead for him before God and Man."
He next went to take his Leave of Motezuma,
and earneſtly requeſted him, "That he would pro-
"tect that fmall Number of Spaniards he had left
" with him, and would be pleafed not to abandon
them upon any Account whatfoever; for the
leaft Change or Diminution of his Favour to-
66 wards
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
67
66
"wards them, if obferved by his Subjects, might
"occafion great Inconveniencies, which would re-
"quire extraordinary Remedies; and that he fhould
"be very forry to find himſelf, at his Return,
obliged to approach that Perfon complaining,
"from whoſe Prefence he departed fo well fatisfy'd.
To which he added, " That Pedro de Alvarado was
❝left to repreſent his Perfon; and that as he had
"transferred to him the Prerogatives belonging to
"the Character of Ambaffador, during his Ab-
55
fence, he had likewife bound him under the fame
Obligation to do every Thing that ſhould be for
"his Majeſty's Service; and that he did not doubt
"but that he ſhould return very ſpeedily to his
"Prefence, free from all theſe Perplexities, to re-
ceive his Orders, prepare for his Voyage, and
<c
66
carry to the Emperor his Sovereign, together
"with his Majefty's magnificent Prefents, the News
"of his Friendſhip and Confederacy, which would
"be to him the Jewel of far greater Value than all.”
MOTEZUMA again began to exprefs his Concern,
that he ſhould fet out with fo unequal a Force, and
intreated him, "That if there was no other Way
"to decide the Diſpute but by Arms, he would
"endeavour to delay the coming to an open Rup-
"C ture till the Arrival of the Mexican Succours,
"which he would not fail to get ready, in what
"Number he defired. He gave him his Word not
"to forfake the Spaniards which he left with Pedro
"de Alvarado, nor change his Habitation during
"his Abfence." Antonio de Herrera adds, That he
accompanied him a good Way out of Town with
his whole Retinue of Courtiers; but maliciouſly at-
tributes this Reſpect not to any real Friendſhip,
but to the earneft Defire he had to fee himſelf freed
from the Spaniards, fuppofing him to be already
difaffected to Hernan Cortes and his Followers, and
F 2
glad
68
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
glad to get rid of them at any Rate. What appears
is, that he punctually kept his Promife, continuing
in the fame Lodging, and in the fame Benovelence
towards the Spaniards, notwithſtanding great Di-
ſturbances happened, all which he might have re-
medied by returning to his own Palace. And in
his whole Procedure, as well in what he did in the
Defence of thoſe Spaniards who were near his Per-
fon, as in what he left unattempted againſt the reſt
in that Difunion of their Forces, it is evidently de-´
monftrable, that he cannot be juftly charged with
the leaſt Double-Dealing, or any Alteration in his
Intentions. It is true, that at laſt he began to wiſh
they were gone, becauſe the Quiet of his whole
Realm abfolutely required it; but he never once
refolved to break with them, nor ever forgot the
Royal Safe-Guard, under the Protection of which
they refided at his Court. And though fuch Con-
fiderations ſeem to belong to a lefs barbarous Prince,
and were little anfwerable to the Character of Mote-
zuma, yet fo total a Change of this Indian's Tem-
per was one of the Miracles which God wrought to
facilitate the Conqueft: For the extraordinary Affec-
tion and reſpectful Fear which he always had for
Cortes, were fo directly oppofite to his unbounded
Pride, and fo contrary to his Nature, that they may
very well be imputed to a Divine Inſpiration.
CHAP.
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
69
CHAP. VIII.
Hernan Cortes directs his March towards Zem-
poala. Is disappointed of the Succours which
be expected from Tlafcala. Continues his
March as far as Matalequita; from whence
he again makes Overtures of Peace, and, with
new Provocation, declares War.
HEY began their March, following the Road
TH
of Cholula with all the Caution and Care which
the Security of the Army required, and which Cuf
tom had now made eafy to the Soldiers, by long
Experience grown perfect in the Art of War, inur'd
to the Hardſhips which attend it, and accuſtomed
to obey without murmuring or difputing. They
were received in that City with a chearful Welcome,
the fervile Dread with which thefe People firſt paid
their Obedience, being now converted into an un-
feigned affectionate Veneration for their Conquerors.
From thence they paffed on to Tlafcala, and half
a League from that City they found a ſplendid Ap-
pearance of the Nobility, and the whole Senate.
The Entrance was celebrated with great Demon-
ftrations of Joy, anſwerable to the freſh Lawrels
with which the Spaniards returned, after having de-
prived Motezuma of his Liberty, and fomewhat
abated the exorbitant Pride of the Mexicans. A Cir-
cumſtance which increaſed their Applaufes, and
greatly bettered the Treatment of the Army. The
Senate immediately went to deliberate upon the An-
fwer which they were to give to Hernan Cortes, con-
cerning the Auxiliary Forces he had defired of the
Republick. And here we find another Difagree-
ment of our Authors, a Misfortune which too fre-
quently
F 3
70
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
quently occurs in the Accounts of the Indies, obliging
us fometimes to embrace that which has the Ap-
pearance of Probability, and very often to be at
abundance of Trouble to fearch for what is only
poffible. Bernal Diaz fays, That he demanded four
thouſand Men, and that they gave him a Refuſal,
with the Pretence, That their Soldiers durft not
take up Arms againſt the Spaniards, for that they
found themſelves incapable of refifting the Horfes
and Fire-Arms. And Antonio de Herrera affirms,
That they gave fix thouſand effective Men, and
offered him a greater Number; adding, that the
fix thouſand were actually incorporated amongſt the
Spanish Companies, and that at three Leagues Di-
ſtance from their City they turn'd back, as not be-
ing accuſtomed to fight far from their own Confines.
But be it as it will, (for it is not of any Importance,
nor can we pretend to rectify every Error) it is very
certain, that the Tlafcalans did not appear upon this
Occafion. Hernan Cortes demanded their Militia
more to make a Noife and Shew with Narvaez,
than that he much confided in their Arms, or de-
pended on their Service againſt the Spaniards. But
it is likewiſe certain, that he parted from that City
without Complaint or Diftruft of the Tlafcalans;
for he fought them afterwards, and found them al-
ways ready when he had any Occafion for their Ser-
vice againſt other Indians; in which Engagements
they were valiant and refolute, as appears by their
having always preferved their Liberty in Spite of
the whole Power of the Mexican Emperor, fo near
his capital City; and that under the Reign of a
Prince who centered his greateſt Vanity in the Re-
nown of being called a Conqueror.
THE Army ſtay'd but a fhort Time in Tlafcala,
and, haftening their March, they pafs'd on to
Mataleguita, a Town of Indian Friends, diftant
twelve
Book IV.
Conquest of MEXICO.
Twelve Leagues from Zempoala, where almoft at
the fame Inftant, arriv'd Gonzalo de Sandoval, with
the Troops under his Command, and Seven Soldiers
more, who, the Day after the Imprifonment of the
Auditor Lucas Vafquez de Ayllon, had from the
Army pafs'd to Vera-Cruz, as from that Action
having a Sufpicion of the Party they were engag'd
in. From thofe Spaniards Cortes was inform'd of
all that was tranfacted in his Enemy's Quarters, and
Sandoval gave him yet frefher Accounts: For be-
fore fetting out, he had found Means to introduce
into Zempoala Two Spanish Soldiers, who moft art-
fully imitated the Behaviour and Gefture of the
Indians, nor were they very much unlike them in
their Complexion: Thefe Men voluntarily and
chearfully ftripp'd themſelves, and concealing their
Nakedness with the barbarous Cloathing of that
Country, early in the Morning enter'd into Zem-
poala, with each a Bafket of Fruit upon his Head,
and placi g themfelves amongst the reft of thoſe
who fold that Sort of Provifion, truck'd their Fruit
for Glafs, and fo dexterous were they in feigning
the Eagerness after Trifles, and the Simplicity of
the Native Peaſants, that no one regarded them;
fo that they went all about the Town, and efcaped
in Safety with what Intelligence they had got: But
not contented with this, they refolv'd to bring
Proof of what Sort of Watch this Army kept in
the Night, and return'd a Second Time, with each
of them a Load of Grafs, amongſt fome Indians who
had been out a Forraging; and did not only dif
cover the Enemy's little Vigilance in their Quarters,
but confirm'd it by bringing off to Vera-Cruz a
Horfe which they had the Addrefs to convey away
from the very Parade, without meeting with the
leaft Oppofition; and it happened to belong to
Captain Salvatierra, one of the moft zealous in
exafperating
F 4
72
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
exafperating Narvaez again Hernan Cortes: A Cir-
cumftance which made the Prize much more valu-
able. Thefe Two Soldiers, notwithſtanding they
perform'd, upon this Occafion, all that could be
expected from Induſtry and undaunted Refolution,
yet their Names are unfortunately and unjustly con-
ceal'd, in the Relation of an Enterprize fo well
executed, and in a Hiftory wherein we find, at every
Step, Actions of far lefs Moment regiſter'd as
Honours to the Name of the Performers.
CORTES founded a great Part of his Hopes upon
the fmall Skill and Experience the oppofite Party
had in Military Affairs; and the Negligence with
which Phamphilo de Narvaez govern'd the Troops
under his Conduct, furnish'd his Imagination with
various Defigns: This Negligence proceeded, as
Cortes very well knew, from the Contempt in which
that General held the inferior Force of the Mexican
Spaniards; nor was he at all difpleas'd at it, fince
it caus'd in the Enemy's Army, a Security fo fa-
vourable to his Deſigns, and which feem'd to fight
for him: Nor was he out in that Manner of argu-
ing; it being evident, that Security is an utter
Enemy to all Precaution, and has occafion'd the
Ruin of many a Commander. It ought to be
reckon❜d amongst the greateſt Dangers of War;
for, generally speaking, when Two Armies come
to meaſure their Strength, the defpis'd Enemy gets
the better.
In the mean while Cortes was not idle; and tho'
he prefs'd his Competitor with repeated Inftances
to accommodate their Difference in an amicable Way,
as wifely confidering that Propofals of Peace ought
to precede the Rupture on his Side, yet he made
all neceffary Preparations for War. He mufter'd
his Men, and found he had Two Hundred Seventy
Six Spaniards, including the Officers, and thoſe
who
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
73
who came from Vera-Cruz with Gonzalo de Sando-
val, without reckoning the Indians of Burthen he
had to carry the Baggage. After this he diſpatch'd
Father Bartolomé de Olmedo a fecond Time, to
make his ultimate Efforts for the adjuſting of all
Matters in Diſpute; but it was not long before that
Ecclefiaftick fent him Advice of the fmall Succefs
of his Negotiation. But Cortes defiring ftill to
do fomething more in order to juftify himſelf, and
to gain Time till the Two Thouſand Indians which
he expected from Chinantla were arrived, he re-
folv'd to fend Captain Juan Velasquez de Leon, as
believing, that his Authority, and near Relation to
Diego Velasquez, might make his Mediation better
accepted. He had experienc'd the Fidelity of this
Captain, who a few Days before had made him re-
peated Proteftations of dying by his Side, if there
was Occafion, and had put into his Hands a Letter
fent him by Narvaez, wherein he made him very
advantageous Offers, if he would efpoufe his In-
tereft. And to this noble and ingenuous Procedure
Cortes made a Return, by confiding to his Ma-
nagement fo important and delicate a Negotiation.
It was generally believed, when he arrived at
Zempoala, that he came determin'd to follow the
Banners of his Kinfman Diego Velasquez; and
Narvaez, with a numerous Retinue, went out to
receive him: But when he began to underſtand his
Commiffion, and found he was endeavouring to
juſtify and fupport the Caufe of Cortes, he broke
off the Difcourfe, and with fome Paffion abruptly
left him, tho' not altogether without Hopes of re-
ducing him; for before he renew'd the Converfa-
tion with him, he gave Orders to muſter his whole
Army in his Prefence, defiring, in Appearance,
either to terrify or convince him with this vain
Oftentation of his Strength. Some advis'd Nar-
Valz
74
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
vaez to fecure his Perfon; but that he durft not
attempt, by Reaſon that Gentleman had many.
Friends in the Army; on the contrary he invited
him to Dinner the Day following, as he likewife did
all the Officers who were his greateſt Friends, and
in whom he moſt confided, to affift him in his
Endeavours to bring that Captain over to his Party.
The Beginning of the Converfation was all Civility
and Compliments: But amidft their Mirth, and
the Liberties of the Feaft, there began foon after
fome Ralleries to be introduc'd againſt Cortes. And
notwithſtanding Captain Juan Velasquez for fome
Time endeavour'd to diffemble his Uneafinefs, that
he might not ruin the Negotiation he was entruſted
with; yet, when they came to indecent Expreffions,
and utter'd injurious Invectives againſt Cortes, he
could no longer contain himſelf, but faid aloud with
fome Warmth; "That they ſhould enter upon
" ſome other Diſcourſe, and not before a Man like
"him, ſpeak ill of his abfent General; adding,
"That whofoever amongſt them all, did not eſteem
"both Hernan Cortes, and every one of his Fol-
"lowers for good and loyal Subjects to the King
" of Spain, if he would fay it before fewer Wit-
"neffes, he would undeceive him after what Man-
"ner he pleas'd." They were all filent, and Pam-
philo de Narvaez was likewife very much embar-
rafs'd about the Return of an Anſwer: But a young
Captain, a near Kinfman of Diego Velasquez, and
of his own Name, took upon him to tell him,
"That none was worthy either of being of the
"Blood, or of bearing the Name of Velasquez,
"who ſo ſtrenuouſly maintain'd a Traytor's Caufe.'
To which Juan Velasquez anſwer'd by giving him
the Lye, and drew his Sword with fo determin'd
a Refolution to chaſtiſe his Infolence, that they had
all of them fufficient Trouble to pacify him and
و,
prevent
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
75
prevent Miſchief: In fhort, they defir'd him to
return to the Camp of Cortes, to avoid the Incon-
veniencies which his ftaying there might produce.
He inftantly did fo, taking with him Father Bar-
tolomé de Olmedo, and let fall fome Words at Part-
ing intimating Revenge, and which feem'd to
threaten an open Rupture.
SOME of the Officers were much diffatisfy'd that
Narvaez had fuffered him to depart without
making up the Quarrel between him and his
Kinfman, in order to hear his Propoſal, that they
might have return'd an Anfwer, good or bad, ac-
cording to what he had in Commiffion to offer:
They faid, "That a Perfon of his Confideration
"and Authority ought to have been treated with
"more Respect; and that from his Judgment and
•
Sincerity it could not be fuppofed, that he would
"come with any prepofterous or unreaſonable
Meffage: That the niceft Punctilios of War
"never went fo far as to hinder the Freedom of
Co
<c
''
hearing: Nor was it good Policy, nor the right
Way to appear formidable to an Enemy, to give
"him Caufe to believe they fear'd his Reafon.”
Theſe Difcourfes pafs'd from the Officers to the
Soldiers, who were fo fenfible of the unjuftifiable
Procedure in this War, that Pamphilo de Narvaez
was oblig'd, in order to quiet them, to name a
Perfon, who, in his own and in the Names of the
whole Party, was to excufe and apologize for that
Want of Civility, and to inquire of Cortes, what
was the Subftance of Juan Velasquez de Leon's Com-
miffion; and for this Purpoſe they unanimouſly
choſe the Secretary Andres de Duero, who having
lefs Partiality againſt Hernan Cortes, feem'd the
fittest Perfon for the Satisfaction of the Malecontents;
and upon Account of his being withal a Domeſtick
Servant to Diego Velasquez, might, by thofe who
were
76
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
were averſe to an Accommodation, be better con-
fided in than any other.
HERNAN CORTES, finding by the Account which
Father Bartelomé de Olmedo and Juan Velasquez de
Leon had brought him, that he had made more
than fufficient Advances towards a Peace, and
holding it now abfolutely neceffary to come to a
Rupture, he remov'd his Troops, with a Defign
of approaching nearer to the Enemy, and of feiz-
ing fome advantageous Poft where he might attend
the Arrival of the Chinantecas, and act as Occafion
fhould offer.
He was upon the March when his Scouts came
back with Intelligence, that the Secretary Andres de
Duero was coming from Zempoala; and Hernan
Cortes, not without Hopes of fome favourable
News, advanc'd to receive him: They faluted each
other with equal Demonftrations of Affection, re-
newing with repeated Embraces their former Friend-
fhip. The Officers all congratulated his Arrival
with great Demonftrations of Joy and Satisfaction;
and before they came to the immediate Point of
the Negotiation, Cortes made him feveral valuable
Prefents, accompany'd with Promiffes of much more.
He ſtay'd till the next Day, after Dinner, during
which Time they had feveral private Conferences.
with great Freedom and Intimacy. They difcours'd
of fome Mediums, in order to a Union between
the Two Parties, and were very defirous of find-
ing out a Way to reduce Narvaez to Reaſon, whoſe
Obftinacy and untractable Temper was the only
Obftacle to the defir'd Peace. Cortes went fo far
as to offer to relinquish to his Competitor the Mexi-
can Expedition, and to go with his Followers in
Queft of other Conquefts. And Andres de Duero,
ſeeing him act fo nobly and generously with his
Enemy, propos'd an Interview; not doubting but
that
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO:
77
that he might prevail with Narvaez to give him
a Meeting, and that by a perfonal Conference be-
tween thoſe Two Rivals, all their Difputes and
Animofities would be the eaſier furmounted. Some
fay, that he carried Orders with him to make that
Propofal: Others, that it was a Thought of Cortes;
but all agree, that an Interview was refolv'd upon,
and adjuſted, as foon as Andres de Duero return'd
to Zempoala; by whofe Care and Diligence an au-
thentick Agreement was made, affigning the Hour
and Place where the Conference was to be held ;
each giving Affurance, under his Hand, that he
would come to the Place appointed, accompanied
with only Ten Friends, who were to ferve as Wit-
neffes to whatever fhould be faid, tranfacted, or
agreed upon.
But at the very Time while Hernan Cortes was
preparing himſelf to obferve with all Punctuality, on
his Part, the Conditions of that Agreement, Andres
de Duero gave him private Notice, That Narvaez had
refolv❜d to lay an Ambuſh with a Deſign to take
or kill him; which being likewife confirmed by
others of his Friends, he was fo ftung, that he
wrote to Narvaez, giving him to underſtand,
"That he had diſcovered his bafe unmanlike
"Treachery, and that from that Moment he re-
"nounc'd all Thoughts of Accommodation, re-
66
mitting his farther Satisfaction to the Decifion of
"the Sword." Had it not been for this timely
Advice, his Credulity and fincere Manner of Pro-
ceeding would have hurry'd him blindly into the
Hands of his implacable Enemy; and he was
fcarce capable of juſtifying himſelf to his own
People, for this Want of Caution, or preci-
pitate Confidence, in trufting to Narvaez after fo
many repeated Proofs of his finifter Intentions. But
nevertheleſs he cannot juſtly be accus'd of having
acted
78
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
acted the Part of an imprudent Commander in
putting that Confidence in his Competitor's Word;
fince upon fuch Occafions, Breach of Faith is a
Villainy of fo black and infamous a Nature, that
an Enemy ought never to be fufpected of it: For
fuch perfidious Wiles as thofe are not to be al-
low'd a Place among the Stratagems of War; nor
are Treacheries and Deceits which leave a Stain
upon the Honour of thoſe who commit them, ever
to be excuſed even in the moſt inveterate and rigo-
rous War.
CHA P. IX.
Is
Hernan Cortes continues his March till within
a League of Zempoala. Pamphilo de Nar-
vaez takes the Field with his Troops.
oblig'd to retire by the Badness of the Wea-
ther. Cortes refolves to attack him in his
Quarters.
HE
ERNAN CORTES was rather animated,
than incens'd at this freſh Inftance of his
Competitor's Brutality. An Enemy capable of fuch
baſe groveling Thoughts appear'd unworthy of his
Apprehenfions; and he believed that one who had
endeavoured to fecure a Victory at the Expence
of his own Honour and Reputation, could never
have any great Dependance either upon himſelf or
his Partifans. He purfu'd his March with more
than ordinary Diligence and Expedition, not that he
had abfolutely determin'd upon the Meaſures he
was to take, but having his Heart full of Hopes,
he was ſpurr'd on by a certain Confidence which
feldom
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
79
feldom fails to be the Forerunner of Succefs. He
took his Station within a League of Zempoala, in a
Place where his Front was defended by a River,
call'd the River of Canoas, and his Rear by the
Neighbourhood of Vera-Cruz. He found here fome
Cottages, fufficiently commodious to quarter his
People and to refreſh them after what they had fuf-
fered from the fcorching Heat of the Sun, and the
Fatigues of that tedious March. He order'd fome
Scouts to paſs on the other Side of the River,
where he likewife pofted Centinels; and giving the
firſt Hours to the Repofe of the Soldiers, he de-
ferr'd confulting with his Officers what Meaſures
were to be taken, till he fhould receive Intelligence
from the Enemies Army, in which he had gained
fome Friends, and believed, that when Opportu-
nity offer'd, all who had a Diflike to this War
would efpouſe his Intereft; which Suppoſition, and
the fmall Experience and Capacity of Narvaez,
gave him fufficient Encouragement to venture fo
near Zempoala, without the Imputation of Impru-
dence or Temerity.
NARVAEZ had Information of the Place where
his Enemy was lodg'd; and with more Hurry
and Precipitation than Conduct and Circumfpection,
and with a Hafte which appeared very like Confu-
fion, he drew out his Troops into the Field, where
he immediately ordered the War to be proclaim'd,
as if it had not already been fufficiently publifh'd.
He affigned a Reward of Two Thoufand Pieces of
Eight to any one who fhould bring him the Head of
Cortes, and a leffer Price for thofe of Gonzalo de San-
doval, and Juan Velasquez de Leon. He iffued out ſe-
veral Orders at once, never forgetting to expreſs his
Inveteracy, and ftill mixing Threats with all he
ſpoke, and every Thing he did fhew'd a great Con-
tempt of his Enemy, but ftill with fome Appear-
ances
80
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
ances of Dread. His Troops being at laft ranged
in Order, not by any Difpofition of his, but by that
of the Officers, who did their Duty without much
minding what he faid, he march'd about a Quarter
of a League at the Head of his Army, being de-
termined to halt and wait for Cortes in the open
Field, foolishly perfuading himſelf, that he had fo
little Judgment as to attack him in a Place where he
might make all the Advantage of the great Supe-
riority of his Numbers. Obftinately perfifting in
that vain Credulity, he continued in that Poft the
whole Day, wafting his Time, and deceiving him-
felf with vain Imaginations. He had already diftri-
buted amongſt his Soldiers the Enemy's Spoil, in-
riching his Captains with the Treaſures of Mexico,
and talked very much of the Victory, but little or
nothing of the Engagement. But as the Sun was
juſt upon fetting, the Weather grew extremely dark
and cloudy, and there fell fo prodigious a Quantity
of Rain, that the Soldiers beſtowed many bitter
Curfes upon their Expedition, and, with loud Cla-
mours, demanded to return to their Quarters. The
Officers likewife foon grew as impatient as the reft,
and without much Difficulty prevailed with Nar-
vaez, who alſo had his Share of the general Uneafi-
nefs, they being all unaccustomed to refift the In-
clemencies of fuch tempeftuous Weather, and many
of them averfe to a War which was like to be at-
tended with ſo many Inconveniences.
NARVAEZ had a little before received Informa-
tion, that Cortes kept himfelf on the other Side of
the River; from which he reafonably enough con-
jectured, that he had nothing to apprehend from
the Enemy for that Night: And as People are ge-
nerally very willing to believe what they defire,
they all unanimously agreed, that it was abfolutely
neceffary to retire, which they did, in great Diſ-
order,
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
81
order, running to feek for Shelter, more like Men
flying before an Enemy, than like Soldiers upon a
March.
NARVAEZ Would not fuffer his Forces to feparate
that Night; rather becauſe he defigned to take the
Field early in the Morning, than for any Jealoufy
he had of Cortes, notwithſtanding he affected the
Vigilance and Care which a General ought to have
when an Enemy is fo near him. They all lodged
themſelves in the principal Temple of the City,
which confifted of three Towers, or Chapels, at a
fmall Diſtance from each other, feated on an Emi-
nence, fufficiently capacious, to which they went
up by many ill-contrived Steps, the Steepnefs and
Difficulty of whofe Afcent very much added to the
Security of the Height. On the Top of the Stairs
he planted his Artillery. For himſelf he chofe the
middle Tower, to which he retired with fome Of-
ficers, and about one hundred Soldiers of thofe in
whom he moſt confided; and the reft of his Troops
he diftributed in the other two, fending out fome
Horſe to ſcour the Neighbourhood, and ordered
two Centinels to be poſted at the Avenues; and with
thefe Precautions, which in his Opinion, left nothing
undone with reſpect to good Difcipline, he devoted
the Remainder of the Night to Reft; and fo far
was he from imagining or furmizing any Danger,
that he gave himfelf up to Sleep, without taking
any farther Care or Concern.
ANDRES DE DUERO inftantly difpatched away
one he confided in, and who could go out of the
Place unfufpected, to inform Cortes by Word of
Mouth of their Return, and in what Manner they
had difpofed themſelves in their Quarters, rather to
make him eafy by this friendly Advice, that he
might paſs the Night in Quiet, than to ftir him up
to new Defigns. But Cortes upon this Notice de-
VOL. II.
Ꮐ
layed
82
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
He
layed but little in determining to lay hold of the
favourable Opportunity which invited him.
had maturely premeditated all the Accidents which
might offer thenfelves during the Courfe of this
War; and, as fometimes a Man muſt ſhut his Eyes
to Difficulties, (which always appear greateſt at a
Diſtance) and there are fome Cafes where Reaſon-
ing is an Enemy to Execution, he called his People
together without more Delay, and put them in Or-
der, notwithſtanding the Tempeft continued: But
his Soldiers, already inured to greater Fatigues,
obeyed without complaining of the Badnefs of the
Weather, or inquiring the Occafion of fo unfeafon-
able and unexpected a Motion; ſo much they de-
pended upon the Prudence and good Conduct of
their Leader. They paffed the River with the Wa-
ter above their Middle, and this Difficulty being
overcome, he made them a fhort Speech, wherein
he communicated to them his Refolution, yet not
refufing to hear their Advice. He informed them
with what Confufion and Diſorder the Enemy had
retired, feeking to fhelter themſelves in Quarters to
defend them againſt the Rigour of the Night: He
likewife told them how they were divided, and the
Manner how they were diſtributed in the Towers of
the Temple: He aggravated the Careleffnefs and
Security in which they were, and with what Facility
they might be attacked before they could be able
to unite, or have Room to draw up: And per-
ceiving that his Propofal was not only approved
but applauded, he purfued his Harangue with freſh
Ardour: This Night, my Friends, faid he, this Night,
Heaven has vouchsafed to put into our Hands the moſt
favourable Opportunity that Defire itself could frame:
You fhall this Night be Witnesses of the great Confi-
dence I repofe in your Courage, and I must ingenuously
confefs, that it is your known Valour alone which in-
Spires
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
83
1
Spires me with thefe bold Attempts. A few Hours ago
we expected our Enemies here, with the Hopes of van-
quifhing them by the Advantage of this River; now
we have them fupinely careless and difunited, the very
Contempt with which they treat us fighting on our Side.
From the fhameful Impatience with which they quitted
the Field, flying from the Inclemency of the Night, (a
flight Inconvenience) we may readily gather what Ufe
thoſe Men well make of that Eaſe which they fought
with fuch pufillanimous Weakness, and injoy without
Jealousy or Sufpicion. Narvaez has but little Know-
ledge of the Niceties and Punctuality to which the
Chances of War oblige Men: His Soldiers are for the
moft Part Novices, People picked up in Hafte, who
have never feen any Service, and will not find it very
eafy to rally in the Obfcurity of the Night, fince a lit-
tle Matter will put them into Disorder in the Prefence
of the Sun. Many have been diſobliged, and complain
of their Captain's Conduct; nor are there wanting fome
who favour our Party, and not a few who hold this
War in Deteftation; and Arms feel heavy when they
move against Inclination: But both the one and the
other must be treated like Enemies till they declare them-
felves, for fhould they overcome us we shall be the
Traitors. Notwithſtanding Reaſon and Justice is on
our Side, yet in War Reafon is an Enemy to the Neg-
ligent, and generally declares for the Conquerors. They
come to take from you all that you have acquired; nor
do they afpire at less than to be the abfolute Lords of
your Liberties, Goods, and Hopes. They will call our Vic-
tories theirs: Theirs the Land which you have conquered
at the Expence of your Blood: Theirs the Glory of your
heroick Exploits: And the worst of all is, that while
they endeavour to treed on our Necks, they ſeek to ruin
the Service of our Sovereign, and put a Stop to the
Progress of our Religion; for those will be lost if we
are vanquished; and notwithstanding the Fault will be
theirs,
Ga
84
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
·
}
theirs, yet it will be questioned who are the guilty.
The Way to prevent thefe Evils is to behave yourselves
this Night with your accustomed Intrepidity: You are
far better able to execute than I am to dictate; betake
yourſelves to your Arms, and forget not your Custom of
conquering: Have God and the King in your Hearts,
Honour before your Eyes, and strengthen your Hands by
remembring the Justice of your Caufe: I will be your
infeparable Companion in all the Danger, and I lefs
pretend to incourage you by my Words, than I do to
perfuade you by my Example.
THEIR Minds were fo fired with this Speech of
Cortes, that the Soldiers made preffing Inftances not
to delay the March. They all acknowledged the
Juftnefs of his Refolution, and fome protefted to
him, "That if he once offered to think of any
"Accommodation with Narvaez, they would with-
"draw their Obedience." Words of Men refolute
and determined, which did not found ill in the Ears
of Cortes, becauſe they rather expreffed Brifkneſs
than Difreſpect. Without Lofs of Time he formed
three ſmall Bodies of his Men, which were to fuc-
ceed each other in the Affault. The firſt he com-
mitted to the Charge of Gonzalo de Sandoval, con-
fifting of fixty Men, in which Number were com-
prehended the Captains forge and Gonzalo de Alva-
rado, Alonfo Davila, Juan Velasquez de Leon, Juan
Nunez de Mercado, and our Hiftorian Bernal Diaz
del Caftillo. For Commander of the Second, con-
fifting likewiſe of fixty Men, he named the Maeftre
de Campo, Chriftoval de Olid, affifted by Andres de
Tapia, Rodrigo Rangel, Juan Xaramillo, and Bernar-
dino Vafquez de Tapia. Cortes himself commanded
the reft, with the Captains Diego de Ordaz, Alonſo
de Grado, Chriftoval and Martin de Gamboa, Diego
Pizarro and Domingo de Albuquerque. The Difpo-
fition was,
"That Gonzalo de Sandoval, with the
"Van-
1
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
85
66
..
CC
<<
<c
"Van-Guard, fhould endeavour to overcome the
firft Difficulty of the Stairs, and hinder the
Enemy from making Ufe of their Artillery, di-
viding his Men fo as to interrupt the Communi-
"cation of the two Towers on the Sides; and
taking great Care to make his Soldiers obferve
a profound Silence. That Chriftoval de Olid fhould
mount immediately and inveft the Tower where
"Narvaez was lodged, and carry on the Attack
"with all the Vigour poffible: That the General
"himſelf fhould, with thofe who followed him,
"take Care to back them, and to animate and
"affift wherefoever his Prefence was moſt neceſſary;
" and that as ſoon as they had given the Attack,
"the Drums fhould beat, and the other warlike In-
"ftruments fhould found, that fo unexpected a
"Noiſe might contribute to ftrike a Terror into
the Enemy, and increaſe their Confufion.'
૮
20
FATHER Bartolome de Olmedo then began his Spi-
ritual Exhortation, and obferving to them, That
they were going to fight for the Caufe of God, dif
pofed them to do what was neceffary on their Part,
in order to merit his divine Favour. There was a
Croſs in the Road, which they themſelves had fixed
there when they had paffed to Mexico, before which
they all fell down on their Knees, while the pious
Ecclefiaftick dictated to them an Act of Contrition,
which with Voices, expreffing a fervent Zeal, they
all pronounced after him: He then ordered them to
recite the general Confeffion of Faith; and giving
them his Bleffing and Abfolution, he left their
Minds infpired with an Ardour, which, though
their Thoughts were before generous and refolute,
was of a fublimer and more refined Nature; for the
Quiet of a Man's Confcience either removes the
Horrors and Apprehenfions of Danger, or gives a
nobler Motive to the Contempt of Death..
G 3
THIS
86
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
*
THIS A&t of Devotion being over, Hernan Cortes
put his three little Battalions into Order: He dif-
pofed the Pikes and Fire-Arms in their proper
Places; repeated to the Officers their Inſtructions,
and very particularly recommended Silence to all:
The Word he gave them was El Efpiritu Santo, i. e.
The Holy Ghost, it being then Whitfontide. He then
began his March, in the fame Order they were to
give the Affault, keeping a very flow Pace, that
they might not arrive tired, and to give the more
Time to the Enemy to indulge themfelves with
Reft, intending to take Advantage of their Security
and Negligence, to overcome them at lefs Expence,
without having the leaft Scruple for his acting upon
this Occafion, with lefs Generofity than he was wont,
in this Manner of furprizing his Enemy, called by
the Antients the Malice of Generals and Comman-
ders; for all Stratagems, which are not actual Breach
of Faith, are lawful in the Military Art; and the
Preference between the Conduct and the Courage of
a Soldier is difputable.
CHA P. X.
Hernan Cortes arrives at Zempoala, where he
finds Oppofition. He obtains the Victory, and
takes Narvaez Prifoner, whofe Troops he
obliges to ferve under his Banner.
ORTES had marched fomewhat more than
half a League, when his Scouts returned with
a Centinel of Narvaez, whom they had furprized
and taken Prifoner, and informed him, that the
other, his Companion, who was a little behind, had
efcaped among the Bufhes; an Accident which de-
ſtroyed
Book IV.
87
Conquest of MEXICO.
ſtroyed their Suppofition of finding a fleeping
Enemy. Upon this they held a fhort Confultation
amongſt the Officers; and it was unanimouſly agreed,
That it was wholly improbable that the Soldier, in
cafe he had diſcovered their March, would be fo
bold as to return by the direct Road, but would ra-
ther take a round-about Way to avoid the Danger.
The Refult of all was, without Delay to haſten their
March, that they might, if poffible, arrive at the
Enemies Quarters before that Spy, or at leaſt as
foon as he; fuppofing that if they had not the Ad-
vantage of affaulting them fleeping, they ſhould
find them fcarce well awake, and in the Diſorder
of their firft Surprize. Thus they argued as they
went, ftill advancing with the utmoft Expedition,
and when they came near the Town, they left their
Horfes, Baggage, and other Incumbrances, at a
Brook a little out of the Road. But the Centinel,
whofe Fear gave him Wings, arrived fome Minutes
before them, and gave the Alarm, crying out as
loud as he could, The Enemy is upon us. Thofe who
were moſt alert inftantly betook themſelves to their
Arms, and brought that Soldier before Narvaez,
who after asking him fome Queftions, made Slight
both of the Intelligence and the Perfon who brought
it; holding it for a Thing impoffible, that Cortes
durft have the Prefumption to feek him with fo fmall
a Number, within his very Lodgment, or that he
could march in a Night fo dark and tempeftuous.
It was but a little more than Midnight when
Hernan Cortes reached Zempoala, and he had the
good Fortune not to be difcovered by the Enemies
Cavalry, who, it is probable, had either loft their
Way in the Obſcurity of the Night, or had quitted
the Road to feek fome Shelter againſt the Rain. He
entered the Town, and came with his Troops within
Sight of the Temple, without finding any Corps de
G 4
Garde,
88
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Garde, or Centinel to challenge him. The Difpute
was then at the higheſt between Narvaez and the
Soldier, who affirmed, he not only faw the Enemies
Van-Guard, but likewife the whole Army upon a
hafty March: But Narvaez and his People ftill
found Pretences to justify and indulge their Security;
and in canvaffing and weighing the Probability of
that Intelligence, loft that Time, which even had
the News been more improbable than they imagin'd
it, ought to have been imployed in Prevention;
walking backwards and forwards in the uppermost
Porch, fome dubious of the Truth of the Intelli-
gence their Commander had received, and others
lefs diffident, giving Credit to it; but all in gene-
ral with their Arms in their Hands, and little lefs
than prepared for whatever might happen.
CORTES foon perceived they had diſcovered him:
And finding himfelf now in the fecond of the Cafes
which had been before confidered, refolved to give
the Affault before they fhould put themfelves in
Order. He made the Signal for the Attack, and
Gonzalo de Sandoval, with his Van-Guard, began to
mount the Stairs, according to the Inftructions he
had received. Some of the Men belonging to the
Artillery, who were upon Guard, heard the Noife,
and firing two or three Pieces, gave a fecond
Alarm, which fufficiently convinced them all of the
Truth of the firft. The Noife of the Artillery was
immediately fucceeded by that of the Drums, and
confufed Voices; and prefently thofe who found
themſelves neareft at Hand, repaired to the Defence
of the Stairs. The Oppofition foon increaſed, and
the Difpute came to Pufh of Pike and Sword. Gon-
zalo de Sandoval was extremely put to it, being to
force his Way againſt a far fuperior Number, with
the Diſadvantage of lower Ground: But it was not
long before Chriftoval de Olid came up to his Relief,
and
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
89
and Hernan Cortes, leaving his Rear formed, threw
himſelf, Sword in Hand, into the hotteſt of the
Engagement, facilitating the Advance of both thofe
Captains, and animating his Men both by his Ex-
ample and Voice; whofe Refolution and Impetu-
ofity the Enemy unable to withſtand, in a few Mo-
ments began to give Ground, quitting the laft
Step; and foon after retreating in great Diſorder,
abandoned the Porch, and the Artillery. Many
fled to their Quarters, others repaired to the Gate of
the principal Tower, where the Diſpute again be-
gan, and continued for fome Time with equal Cou-
rage on both Sides.
PAMPHILO DE NARVAEZ, who by his Friends
Perfuafion, had ſtayed to arm himſelf, now made
his Appearance: He incouraged, with his Words,
thoſe who were engaging the Enemy, and did all
he could to put them in Order. He then advanced
with fo much Boldneſs into the thickeft of the Fight,
that being near one Pedro Sanchez Farfan, a Soldier
of Sandoval's Company, that Man gave him a
Thruft in the Face with his Pike, which ftruck out
one of his Eyes, whereupon he fell down, without
being able to ſay any more than, I am a dead Man!
The News of this Accident foon ſpread amongſt
his Troops: They were all feized with Fear and
Confternation, the Effects of which were various; for
fome abandoned him fhamefully, others ftood mo-
tionleſs as if they had been Thunder-ftruck; and
thoſe who were moft defirous of doing their utmoſt
to fuccour him, fought like Men amazed, and in
Confufion at the Suddennefs of the Accident; info-
much that they found themſelves obliged to retreat,
leaving the Conquerors at Liberty to convey him.
away, who carried, or rather dragged him down
Stairs. Cortes fent Orders to Gonzalo de Sandoval,
to take Care of fecuring his Perfon, which was put
in
90
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
in Execution, by delivering him to the Body of
Men which was in the Rear: And that Comman-
der, who a little before beheld this War with fo
careleſs an Eye, upon the Recovery of his Senfes,
found himſelf not only grieved with the Pain of his
Wound, but alfo in the Power of his Enemies,
and with two Pair of Fetters upon his Legs, with-
out the leaft Proſpect of obtaining his Liberty.
THE Difpute was now, for want of Reſiſtance,
at an End. The Followers of Narvaez all fhut
themſelves up in their Towers, fo greatly terrified
that they durft not offer to fire one Shot, and only
took Care to defend the Entrance. The Partiſans
of Cortes with loud Voices proclaimed their Victory,
fome repeating the Name of Cortes, others that of
the Emperor Don Carlos, and the moſt confiderate
invoked the Holy Ghoft. Thefe Acclamations of an-
ticipated Joy did not a little ferve to increaſe the
Enemy's Confternation, which was, in that Juncture,
further augmented by an accidental Circumſtance
which made them believe that Cortes had brought
thither a very powerful Army, which, to their
thinking, filled a great Part of the circumjacent
Country; for from the Windows of their Towers
they diſcovered Lights at different Diſtances, which
through the Night's Obfcurity appeared to their
Eyes like lighted Matches in the Hands of nume-
rous Bands of Harquebufiers. Thefe Lights were
no other than certain Infects which fhined by Night
like Glow-Worms, but much brighter, and of a
larger Size than thofe in our Hemiſphere: An Ap-
prehenfion which had a very fingular Influence upon
the Minds of the more vulgar Part of the Army,
and inſpired with Doubts and Miſtruſts even thoſe
who fhewed themfelves moft refolute. So apt are
Perſons in Diſtreſs to be deceived by Fear, and fo
greatly
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
91
greatly do the flighteſt Caſualties turn to the Ad-
vantage of the Fortunate.
CORTES Commanded his Men to ceaſe their Ac-
clamations of Victory, the unfeaſonable Belief of
which is very often of bad Confequence, and ought
to be avoided and prevented, becauſe it renders Sol-
diers careleſs and diforderly. He gave Orders that
the Artillery ſhould be turned againſt the Towers,
and caufed a general Pardon to be proclaimed for
thoſe who would furrender; offering very reafona-
ble Conditions, and a Communication of Interefts
to all those who would refolve to follow his Ban-
ners; Liberty and free Paffage to thoſe who were
willing to return to the Iſland of Cuba, and to all
in general Security for their Perfons and Baggage.
This Declaration was very prudently confidered;
for it greatly imported that he fhould publifh his
Intentions before the Day (whofe Dawn was not
far off) fhould diſcover to the Soldiers of Narvaez
the inconfiderable Number of their Enemies, and
give them Courage to recover from the Terror they
were in: For fometimes Fear is converted into
Raſhneſs, out of mere Shame for having been alarm'd
without fuitable Foundation.
THEY had fcarce finiſhed the Publication of Par-
don at the three feparate Holds where the Enemy
had retreated, when the Officers and Soldiers, in
whole Troops, came to furrender themfelves. As
they arrived they every one delivered up their Arms,
and Cortes, with his accuſtomed Urbanity, received
them very courteously, but caufed his Friends, as
well as the others, to be difarmed, either to con-
ceal their Inclinations, or that their Example might
ferve as a Precedent to the reft. The Number of
thoſe who ſurrendered increaſed to that Degree in
a few Moments, that it was neceffary to feparate
and
92
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
and fecure them with fufficient Guards, till Day
fhould difcover their Countenances and Affections.
In the mean while Gonzalo de Sandoval did not
forget Narvaez, but had his Wound carefully
drefs'd; and Hernan Cortes, who indefatigably went
up and down to every Quarter, and confidered
Narvaez as his principal Care, went to ſee him, not
intending to diſcover himſelf, that he might not
add to his Affliction by his Prefence; but the Re-
ſpect his Soldiers fhewed him at his Approach dif-
covered him; and Narvaez turning himſelf towards
him with the Air of one who was not thoroughly
fenfible of his Misfortune, faid, "Be thankful and
"value yourſelf, Captain, upon the good Fortune
e you have had in making me your Priſoner." To
which Cortes replied, "Thanks be to God for all
r Things, Friend: But without any manner of
"Vanity, I do affure you, that I account this
"Victory, and your Imprifonment amongst the
"leaft confiderable Actions which have been done
"in this Country."
CORTES had Notice brought him, that one of
the Towers, in which the Captains Salvatierra and
Diego Velasquez the Younger had fortified them-
felves, made an obftinate Defence, thofe Officers,
by their Authority and Perfuafions, preventing the
Soldiers who were with them from furrendering:
Whereupon Cortes immediately returned to the
Temple, and caufed them to be fummoned, and
acquainted, that if they would not furrender, they
fhould be treated with the utmoft Rigour of War;
and finding they were refolutely bent either to de-
fend themſelves to the laft, or to capitulate, he,
not without fome Heat, gave Orders to play with
Two Pieces of Artillery upon the Tower; but pre-
fently after, he directed his Gunners to diſcharge
againſt the Top of the Building, more to terrify
than
Book IV. Conqueft of MEXICO.
93
than to hurt them. This Order they punctually
executed, and there needed no more Trouble, to
bring out the greateſt Part of the Defendants to aſk
Quarter, leaving the Entrance of the Tower free;
which Juan Velasquez de Leon foon poffeffed him-
felf of, with a ſmall Body of his Men, feizing the
Captains Salvatierra and Velasquez, both declared
Enemies, and who, it was to be feared, might
afpire to fupply the Vacancy of Narvaez. This
compleated the Victory in Favour of Cortes: On
his Side only Two Soldiers were killed, and fome
few wounded, of which Number Two more are
faid to have died afterwards. Of the contrary
Faction were killed a Captain an Enfign, with
Fifteen private Men, and the Number of the
Wounded was much more confiderable. Narvaez
and Salvatierra were fent to Vera-Cruz with a fuf-
ficient Guard. Young Diego Velasquez remained
Prifoner with Juan Velasquez de Leon; and notwith-
ſtanding he had given him a juft Caufe of Refent-
ment upon Account of what had happened at Zem-
poala, he took particular Care both of his Cure and
Entertainment, to which he was partly moved by
the Tye of Blood, but chiefly by a noble and ge-
nerous Inclination. All this was performed before
the Morning, and was a remarkable Action both
on Account of the Juftneſs of the Meaſures which
Cortes took, and the Overfights, and irregular Con-
duct of Narvaez.
AT Break of Day arrived the Two Thoufand
Chinanticas which Cortes had demanded; and notwith-
ftanding they came after the Victory, he was very
glad of their Coming, that his Priſoners might fee
he did not want Friends to affift him. With Shame
and Confufion did the poor vanquished Spaniards
reflect upon the Condition in which they then found
themfelves. The Day-light fet their Ignominy in
full
94
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
full View before their Eyes: They beheld the Ar-
rival of thofe Succours, and foon came to the
Knowledge of the fmall Force with which Cortes
had obtained the Victory: They curfed the Confi-
dence of Narvaez, and condemned his thoughtlefs
Indolence; all which Reflections made Way for
their greater Efteem of Cortes, whofe Vigilance and
undaunted Courage they confidered with no lefs
Admiration. It is the Prerogative of Valour, more
eſpecially in War, not to be hated even by thoſe
who envy it. The Unfortunate may, indeed, be
fenfible of their Difgrace, and may feel it with
Regret; yet the heroick Exploits of a Conqueror
lofe no Part of their Luftre in the Eyes of the Con-
quered: A Maxim which was never more verified
than upon this Occafion; for there was not amongſt
all thofe Prifoners one Soldier but who had a fecret
Inclination to follow the Fortune of an abler Leader,
(yet ftill without communicating his Sentiments to
the reft) and to ferve under the Banners of an
Army where the Soldiers acquired both Honour
and Wealth.
CORTES had no fmall Number of Friends
amongſt the Prifoners; many were affected with
his Valour, and more were charmed with his Li-
berality. His Friends threw afide the Maſk of
Diffimulation, and gave a Beginning to the Accla-
mations with which all who were well affected pre-
ſently declared themſelves, and the better Part of
the reft foon followed their Example. They were
admitted to the Prefence of their new General:
Many would have caft themſelves at his Feet, had
he not prevented them with his Embraces. They
all gave in their Names, difputing for the Preference
on the Roll, nor was there one amongſt fo many
who made the leaft Motion of returning to the
Inland of Cuba. And it was in this that Hernan
Cortes
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
95
Cortes reaped the principal Advantage he propofed
in this Undertakeing; for he did not fo much de-
fire to conquer thoſe Spaniards, as he did to bring
them over to his Party. He made it his Buſineſs
to found their Inclinations, and having found them
agreeable to his Wiſhes he prefently ordered their
Arms to be returned; an Action which ſome of his
Officers diſapproved: But there wanted not Motives
for this Confidence and Security. Thofe of the
greateſt Authority and Diſtinction among them were
his real Friends, and the Chinantecas being there, was
a confiderable Security to his Party. The Prifoners
acknowledg'd the Favour they receiv'd, and, with
freſh Acclamations, applauded the Truft he put in
them; and in a few Hours Cortes found himſelf
poffeffed of an Army of more than a Thoufand
Spaniards; the only Enemies who could give him
Umbrage, fafe in his Cuftody; a Fleet of Eleven
Ships and Seven Brigantines at his Difpofal; the
laft Effort of Diego Velasquez overthrown, and
brought to nought; and himſelf Mafter of fufficient
Force to return to his principal Conqueft; all
which was owing to his undaunted Heart, great
Vigilance, and Military Skill; and to the Valour
and Compliance of his Soldiers, who had firſt fo
readily approved of this dangerous Enterprize, and
afterwards, with the Sword, had gained him not
only the Victory, but the Credit of a wifely-form-
ed Refolution. For in the Opinions of Men (who
beſtow or deny Fame) to obtain the End is a
Proof of a right Choice of Means; and Succefs
for the moſt part gives the Reputation of Prudence
to the rafheft and moſt hazardous Undertakings.
CHAP.
96
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
CHA P. XI.
Cortes reduces the Cavalry of Narvaez which
kept the Field. He receives Information,
that the Mexicans had taken up Arms against
the Spaniards which he had left with Mo-
He marches with his Army to
Mexico, and enters that City without Op-
pofition.
tezuma.
HE Cavalry of Narvaez did not appear that
T Night, which, had they been difpofed at a
Place of Arms, as fo fmall a Diſtance from the
Enemy required, might have been very trouble-
fome to Cortes. But there all Military Rules were
laid afide; and when once the Commander in Chief
falls into the Errors of Negligence and Security,
all the falfe Steps he makes feem leſs ſtrange, fince
the Abfurdities of his Conduct pafs for Confe-
quences. Thoſe who had leaft Share in the Action
made ufe of the Horfes to make their Eſcape; and
in the Morning came Advice, that they had joined
thoſe who were detach'd for Scouts the Night be-
fore, and made up a Body of about forty Horfe,
with which they beat up and down the Neighbour-
hood with a Countenance as if they intended to
make Reſiſtance. This News gave but little Um-
brage; and Hernan Cortes, before he would pro-
ceed to violent Methods againſt them, fent Two
Officers, Chriftoval de Olid, and Diego de Ordaz, to
endeavour to reduce them by fair Means; which
Commiffion they prefently put in Execution, and,
at the firſt Offer of their being admitted into the
Army upon the fame Footing with their Compa-
nions, brought them to Reafon; the Example fet
them
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
97
1
them by the reft being fufficient to induce them all
readily to come in and offer their Service to Cortes
with their Arms and Horfes. Immediate Care was
taken of the Wounded, for whom and all the reft
convenient Quarters were provided, upon which Oc-
cafion the Cazique and his Zempoalans affifted chear-
fully and diligently, celebrating the Victory, and
diſpoſing all Things for the Entertainment of their
Friends with a kind of intereſted Joy, in which
they ſeemed to breathe after their paſt Fatigues
and Slavery.
HERNAN CORTES was not negligent as to what
regarded the Security of the Armada; a very ef
fential Point at this nice Juncture. He fent im-
mediate Orders to Captain Francifco de Lugo, that
he ſhould cauſe the Sails, Tackling, and Rudders
of all the Veffels to be brought afhore, and laid up
at Vera-Cruz. He ordered that the Pilots and
Mariners who came with Narvaez fhould come to
Zempoala, and fent fuch a Number of his own, as
he thought fufficient to take Care of the Hulls.
With theſe he appointed one Pedro Cavallero to go
in Quality of their Chief, or Superviſor, a ſufficient
Employment for Bernal Diaz to honour him with
the Title of Admiral of the Sea.
AFTER this he difmiffed the Chinantecas, ma-
king as great Acknowledgment for their Succour as
if they had done him actual Service: He then al-
lowed fome Days for the Refreſhment of his
Troops, during which Time the Inhabitants of the
neighbouring Villages, and Caziques of the circum-
jacent Country, came to congratulate the Good Spa-
niards, or Gentle Teules, for fo they called thoſe who
belong'd to Cortes. They renewed the Proteftations
of their Obedience, and made freſh Offers of their
Friendship, accompanying theſe Demonftrations of
Reſpect with many Prefents and Regales, whereat
VOL. II.
H
the
the
98
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
the People of Narvaez did not a little admire, be-
ginning to experience the Advantages of the new
Party they had embraced, in the Entertainment and
Security of thofe Indians, who a little before had
appeared diſcontented, fullen and terrify'd.
BUT notwithſtanding this Chain of Succeſs, Cortes
had Mexico continually at Heart: The Danger to
which he had left Pedro de Alvarado and his Spani-
ards expos'd, was never one Moment out of his
Mind. He was fenfible, that their Security de-
pended folely on Motezuma's keeping that Promife
he had made him, of not attempting any Change
in his Abfence: An Obligation of no great Force,
where the Princes are arbitrary, and their Will ab-
folute, and where their Stateſmen, with various
Solutions, feldom fail of pretending to free their
Sovereigns from all Tyes, maintaining, that they
are not obliged to the Obfervance of their Words
like private Men: An abominable State-Maxim,
which upon this Occafion gave Cortes fufficient
Ground for Apprehenfion, yet ftill without ap-
proving fo baſe a Policy by an open Sufpicion; for
to admit, in any Manner, of a King's breaking his
Word, is the fame Thing as to acquit him of the
Obligations of a Man of Honour.
HAVING fixed his Refolution of immediately re-
turning to Mexico, and not being willing to take
with him fo numerous a Body of Men, for Fear of
giving Umbrage to Motezuma, and moving afreſh
the unquiet Spirits of his Courtiers, he determined
to divide his Army, and employ fome Part of his
Troops in other Conquefts. To this Effect he ap-
pointed Juan Velasquez de Leon to take two hundred
Men under his Conduct, and march to the Province
of Panuco, to pacify the Disturbances there, and
Diego de Ordaz, with two hundred more, to people
the Country of Guazaccoalco; referving for himfelf
little
Book IV. Conqueft of MEXICO.
99
{
little more than fix hundred Spaniards, a Number
which he thought well proportioned for his Return
to the Mexican Court with fome Appearance of
Modefty, yet without wholly laying afide the Marks
of a Conqueror.
tr
66
..
BUT at the very Time when this Difpofition was
going to be put in Execution, fomething new offer-
ed which obliged him to change his Refolutions:
For he receiv'd a Letter from Pedro de Alvarado,
wherein that Officer informed him, "That the
"Mexicans had taken up Arms againſt him; and
"in fpight of Motezuma, who had never once of-
"fered to leave the Quarters, had made fuch fre-
quent Attacks, and in fuch Multitudes, that
"himſelf and all who were with him, would be
inevitably loft, if they were not fpeedily fuc-
coured." This Intelligence was brought by a
Spanish Soldier, accompany'd by an Ambaffador
from Motezuma, whofe Commiffion was to lay be-
fore Cortes, "That it had been intirely out of his
"Sovereign's Power to reprefs the fury of his fe-
"ditious Vaffals: That his Royal Authority had
"fuffered extremely from thofe Mutineers: That
"his Majefty affured him, he would never abandon
"Pedro de Alvarado, and the Spaniards ;" and
laftly, he invited him to Court, with all poffible
Expedition, to apply a Remedy to that Evil.
Whether it was upon Account of the ill Confe-
quences that Sedition might produce to himſelf, or
whether upon Account of the Danger his Spanish
Gueſts were in, both the one and the other argue
his Sincerity, and the great Confidence he repofed
in Cortes.
THERE was no Occafion to confult about what
Refolution was to be taken in this Cafe, for both Of-
ficers and Soldiers voted their immediate March to
be abfolutely indifpenfable: Some taking for a fea-
H 2
fonable
100
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
}
He
fonable and lucky Prefage this Accident, which
ferved as a Pretext not to divide their Forces, and
to return with the whole Body to Mexico, from the
Reduction of which Place their future Conquefts
were all to commence. Cortes, without Delay,
nam'd for Governor of Vera-Cruz, in Quality of
Deputy, or Lieutenant to Gonzalo de Sandoval, one
Rodrigo Rangel, a Perfon in whom he confided, to
whoſe Capacity and Care he might venture to truſt
the Priſoners, and the Prefervation of his Indian
Allies. He then caufed his Army to be muftered,
and after having deducted a Garriſon proper to be
left at Zempoala, with a fufficient Number for the
Security of the Veffels, he found it to confiſt of a
Thouſand Foot, and One hundred Horfe.
took different Routs, both to avoid incommoding
the Country People, and for the greater Conveniency
of procuring Plenty of Provifions; and appointed
for the General Rendezvous, a Place well known
near Tlafcala, into which City they thought it
neceffary to march united, and in good Order:
But notwithſtanding feveral Commiffaries were ſent
before, to furnish the Army on the March; all
their Diligence was not fufficient to prevent thoſe
who march'd out of the principal Road from fuf-
fering Hunger fometimes, and frequently intole-
rable Thirft. Thefe Fatigues and Hardſhips thofe
who came with Narvaez endured without mur-
muring or being disheartened; tho' they were
the fame Men who, a little before, had given way
to leſs Inconveniencies; which Change must be at-
tributed either to the Example fet them by the
Veterans, or to the Hopes with which their Hearts
were infpir'd, and may be alfo partly imputed to
the Difference of the Leader, an Opinion of whom
is generally wont to have a fecret Influence upon
the
+
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICo.
101
the Soldiers, both as to their Courage in Battle,
and their Patience in undergoing Hardſhips.
CORTES, before his fetting out, fent an Anfwer
to Pedro de Alvarado, by a Letter, and to Mote-
zuma by his Ambaffador, giving them an Account
of his Victory, Return and the Increaſe of his
Army; that the one might be encouraged with
the Hopes of powerful Succour; and the other
might not be furprized to fee him return with for
great a Force, fince the Disturbances in his Capital
oblig'd him not to divide his Troops. He regula-
ted his March by the Neceffity he was under, ma-
king all the Expedition he poffibly could; leffening
the Hours of Refreſhment, which he feemed to find
even in the Fatigue he underwent. He made fome
Stay at the Place of Rendezvous to gather up his
People, who came by different Roads, and at laft
arrived at Tlafcala, on the Seventeenth of June,
with all his Troops in good Order. His Entry
was fplendid and joyful. Magifcatzin entertained
Cortes at his own Houfe. The reft were accommo-
dated, refpected, and well regaled, in their ſeveral
Quarters. The Tlafcalans could not well conceal
their Hatred to the Mexicans under the Pretext of
Love to the Spaniards. They gave an Account of
the Confpiracy, and of the imminent Danger Pedro de
Alvarado was in, with Circumftances in which there
ſeemed more Prejudice than Truth: They exag-
gerated the Prefumption and the Perfidy of that
Nation, exciting the Spaniards to Revenge, and
mixing their Counfel and Infinuations together with
no great Artifice; Crimes magnified with a fufpi-
cious Zeal, and Truths in the Mouth of an Enemy,
introduced by Way of Intelligence, but defigned
as Accufations.
THE Senate, upon this Occafion, refolved to
make a grand Effort, and to get all their Troops
together
H 3
M
102
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
!
together to affift Cortes again't the Mexicans, not
without their own politick Reaſons, which were
better comprehended than concealed; for it plain-
ly appeared, that under the fpecious Pretext of
favouring the Caufe of their Friend, their Deſign
was to make ufe of his Forces to ruin, at once,
the commanding Nation which they fo much ab-
horred. This Difguife was eafily feen thro'; and
Hernan Cortes, after he had expreffed his Acknow-
ledgmnnt, repreffed the Pride with which they
were difpofed to follow him, oppofing to the In-
ſtances of the Senate fome feeming Reaſons, which
in Subſtance were no more than bare Pretences
againſt Pretences. But he admitted of about Two
thouſand Men of their beſt Troops, with their re-
ſpective Officers, or Commanders of Companies, to
march with him, and which were of Service after-
wards. He took thefe Indians with him, either for
the greater Security of his Undertaking, or to pre-
ferve the Confidence of the Tlafcalans, who already
had the Reputation of being valiant in Engage-
ments againſt the Mexicans; and he took no grea-
ter Number, that he might neither give Offence to
Motezuma, nor drive his mutinous Subjects to De-
fpair; for his Intention was to enter Mexico in a
pacifick Manner, and to try if he could reduce
thofe People by gentle Methods, without giving
way to his Anger, or thinking at that Time of the
Puniſhment of the Guilty; he was defirous firft to
eſtabliſh Tranquillity, and was fenfible, that the
quieting a Sedition, and terrifying the Seditious,
are Two Things which are hardly practicable at
one and the fame Time.
He arrived at Mexico upon St. John's Day, with-
out having met with any Subject of Uneafinefs in
the Way, more than the Variety and Difagreement
of the Intelligence he received. The Army pafs'd
the
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
103
the Lake without the leaft Oppofition, tho' there
wanted not Appearances that fomething had been
intended; for they found the Two Spanish Brigan-
tines ftav'd to pieces, and half burnt; the Suburbs
and Barrier at the Entrance abandon'd; the Bridges,
which ferv'd for the Communication of the Streets,
broken down and all in a fufpicious Silence; Signs
which obliged them to flacken their Pace, the In-
fantry advancing with a flow March, and the Ca-
valry going before to reconnoitre. This Sufpicion
lafted till the Spaniards, who were with Motezuma
in Mexico, diſcovering the Army, rais'd a great
Shout, and diffipated their Apprehenfions. Pedro
de Alvarado came down with his People to receive
them at the Gate of his Quarters, and they celebra-
ted their common Felicity with equal Joy. Inftead
of faluting, they congratulated each other upon
their Victories: All fpoke, and all were interrupted,
much was expreffed by Embraces and broken Sen-
tences; the ufual Eloquence of Joy, where Sounds
are far more expreffive and fignificant than Words.
MOTEZUMA, followed by fome of his Servants,
went out as far as the outermoft Court, where he
received Cortes, with an Excefs of Joy, in which
all Majefty was laid afide. It is certain, (and no
one denies it) that the Emperor defir'd his Com-
ing, becauſe he had then great Occafion both for his
Forces and Counfel, to keep his Subjects under,
and likewiſe becauſe he was deprived of that kind
of Liberty which Cortes gave him, fuffering him
to go out to his Diverfion whenever he pleafed; a
Permiffion he would not make ufe of, during the
whole Time of his Abfence, notwithſtanding his
Confinement moſt certainly depended purely upon
the Force of his Parole; the Compliance with
which obliged him not to abandon the Spaniards in
thoſe troubleſome Times.
H 4
BERNAL
t
104
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
BERNAL DIAZ DEL CASTILLO fays, That Her-
nan Cortes repaid with ill Manners and Slight, all
Motezuma's Demonftrations of Refpect: That he
turned his Face from him, and retired to his Apart-
ment, without either viſiting him, or fuffering
himſelf to be vifited by him; That he us'd fome
very diſreſpectful and uncivil Expreffions towards
him, even in the Hearing of his Servants. And
adds, as his own Opinion," That it was his being
"fupported by fuch a Number of Spaniards, that
"made him ſpeak with fo much Boldneſs and Dif-
"courtefy." Thus fays Bernal Diaz: But Antonio
de Herrera, in his Hiftory, difcredits Cortes ftill
more; for he pretends to quote that General's own
Expreffions as a Proof of his irregular Procedure, in
the following Words; "Many People have affirmed,
"that they have heard Cortes fay, That if upon his
"Arrival, be vifited Motezuma, his Affairs would
go well; and that he did not do it, holding him
"in fmall Account, becauſe he found himſelf fo
powerful." And on this Occafion he quotes a
Paffage out of Cornelius Tacitus, the Subftance of
which is, That Profperity makes great Commanders
proud and infolent. Neither Francifco Lopez de Go-
mara, nor Hernan Cortes himſelf, in the fecond Re-
lation of his Expedition ſays any Thing like this;
and Cortes might fure have touch'd upon it, to have
fhewn the Motives which obliged him to a Proce-
dure of fo much Harfhnefs, or to have made an
Excute. We leave to the Judicious and Unbiaffed
to decide what Credit ought to be given to theſe
Authors: But we beg leave to make fome Scruple
at believing that Cortes could ever be guilty of fo
fruitless and unfeaſonable an Abfurdity. The fame
Herrera and Caftillo agree, that Motezuma op-
pofed, as much as in him lay, the feditious Pro-
ceedings of the Mexicans; that he always with-held
$$
<<
and
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
105
and reprefs'd them: That they attempted to force
the Quarters; and that Pedro de Alvarado, and all
the reft who were with him, muft infallibly have
periſhed, had they not been protected under the
Shadow of his Authority. No body offers to deny
that Cortes was fenfible of all this; and his finding
that Prince religiouſly punctual to all he had pro-
mifed, left him not the leaft Room to furmife the
contrary: It being prepofterous to fuppofe, that he
fhould foment an Infurrection which he fedulouſly
endeavour'd to fupprefs, or that he fhould volun-
tarily continue among the very People whom he
deſign'd to deſtroy. It ſeems an Action altogether
inconfiftent with the ufual Prudence of Cortes, to
fhew a Contempt for a Perfon of whofe Affiftance
and Protection there was fo much Probability he
might ftand in Need; nor was the Immoderation
they charge him with, as the Effect of his Profpe-
rity, at all natural to his Temper and Genius. It
may be believed, or at leaft furmifed, that Antonio
de Herrera gave into this Particular with little or no
Foundation, only by perufing the Manuſcripts of
Bernal Diaz, a prejudic'd Interpreter of the Ac-
tions of Cortes; and, perhaps, he inclined to fol-
low his Opinion, that he might have an Opportu-
nity to bring in that Sentence of Tacitus: A dange-
rous Ambition in Hiftorians, fince it feldom fails of.
either wrefting the Truth, or biaffing the Narrative,
purely to introduce the Remarks they like; and it
is not every one that will be at the Trouble of exa-
mining whether the Quotation and the Truth of
the Fact agree.
3
+
CHAP.
106. The HISTORY of the
Book IV.
CHA P. XII.
The Motives which induced the Mexicans to take
up Arms. Diego de Ordaz, with fome Com-
panies of Men, is fent to make Difcoveries in
the City; falls into an Ambush the Revolters
had laid for him; upon which Cortes deter-
mines to profecute the War.
TW
WO or three Days before Cortes arrived at
Mexico, the Rebels had retired to the other
Part of the City, fufpending all Hoftilities; in
which, according to what could be inferred from
the Event, they had crafty and treacherous Views.
They thought themfelves fecure in their exceffive
Numbers, and were grown proud upon their having
killed three or four Spaniards in the paſt Engage-
ments: An extraordinary Accident, from which
(though at the Expence of many Lives) they af-
fumed freſh Boldnefs, and greater Infolence. They
knew Cortes was coming, and could not be igno-
rant how much his Army was increafed, but they
were fo far from fearing him, that they retreated
in that Manner, and left him the Entrance free, with
the View of deftroying all the Spaniards at once,
after they were joined in the City. Their real De-
fign in that myfterious Conduct was not at firſt
underſtood, though their Retreat was looked upon
as Policy; nor can one judge too fufpiciouſly of the
Motions of a known Enemy.
A
THE whole Army was quartered within the Walls
of the fpacious Palace, where both Spaniards and
Tlafcalans were fufficiently accommodated. Guards.
and Centinels were diſtributed and placed, anſwer-
able to the Jealoufy wherewith that myfterious Cef-
fation
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
107
fation from Hoftilities had infpired them. Cortes
retired with Pedro de Alvarado to inquire into the
Original of this Sedition, and to confider of Re-
medies upon the Knowledge of the Caufe. And
here we again meet with the fame Variety and Con-
tradictions by which the Courfe of our Pen has
been frequently interrupted. Some fay, That the
Practices of Narvaez firſt induced the Mexicans to
this Infurrection. Others, That Motezuma himſelf
contrived and fomented the Mutiny, as impatient
of Confinement, and defirous of his Liberty; but it
is not at all neceffary that we dwell upon this Point,
fince we have already fully fhewn upon what flen-
der Foundations thefe private Negotiations are attri-
buted to Narvaez; and Motezuma has been fuffi-
ciently cleared from all fuch incoherent and contra-
dictory Imputations. Some have affirmed the Source
of this Sedition to have been the Loyalty and Fide-
lity of the Mexicans; reporting, that their fole Rea-
fon for taking up Arms, was in order to reſcue their
Sovereign from the Oppreffion he lay under; a Sen-
timent which comes nearer to Reafon and Proba-
bility, than it does to real Fact. Others attribute
this Rupture to the Zeal of the Indian Priefts: And
this Opinion indeed has fome Appearance of Truth;
for they were very officious in the Tumult, loudly
publiſhing the Menaces of their Gods, infpiring the
reft with that fame Fury wherewith they themſelves
were difpofed to receive their diabolical Oracles.
They repeated to the People what Satan ſpoke by
the Mouths of their Idols; and though they were
not the firſt Movers of the Sedition, they were yet
indefatigably active, and powerfully zealous in fup-
porting it, by ſtirring up the People's Minds.
FOREIGN Writers are ftill far more remote from
the Appearance of Truth, accounting the Origin
and Motives of thofe Disturbances among the Cruel-
ties
108
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
ties and Inhumanities with which they endeavour
to difcredit and blacken the Spaniards in their Con-
queft of the Indies: And the worst of all is, they
fupport their Malice by citing Bartolome de las Casas,
or Cafaus, who was afterwards Biſhop of Chiapa,
whofe Words they copy, and quote as an authen-
tick infallible Proof of what they charge our Na-
tion with, as being the Teftimony of one of our
own Authors, and a Perfon of no fmall Diſtinction.
What he left in Writing, and which paffes among
his Works, is, "That the Mexicans having ap-
C6
pointed a publick Dance, of that kind which
"they call Mitotes, in order to divert and enter-
"tain Motezuma, Pedro de Alvarado, taking No-
"tice of the Jewels with which the Indians were
"adorned, called together all his Soldiers, and fell
. upon them, cutting them to Pieces to make
"himſelf Mafter of thofe valuable Ornaments, in
"the gaining of which infamous Spoils, he fays,
"above two thoufand of the Mexican Nobility were
..
put to the Sword:" With which he leaves the
Confpiracy on the Footing of a juft Revenge. A
prepofterous, unaccountable Suggeftion, neither
probable, nor even poffible. This Prelate did, at
that Time, folicit the Relief of the Indians, and ex-
aggerating the Oppreffions they laboured under,
had far lefs Regard to the Truth, than to the fup-
porting of his own Affertions. The greateſt Part
of our Writers convict him of being ill-informed,
both in this and other Enormities with which he has
charged the Spaniards in his Writings. 'Tis happy
to find him fo well refuted, that we may the better
treat him with that Refpect which is due to his
Dignity.
THE Truth of the Matter was, That Pedro de Al-
varado, a little after the Departure of Cortes from
Mexico, perceived, in the Nobility of that Court,
lefs
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO. 109
lefs Refpect and Complaifance than ufual; which
obliged him to behave himſelf with greater Caution,
and to have an Eye to their Motions. He em-
ployed fome Perfon in whom he could confide, to
obferve what paffed in the City; and by them un-
derſtood, That the People were contriving fome-
thing extraordinary; that they held Affemblies in
feveral Houſes, with an ill-concerted Privacy, which
though it concealed their Meaſures, yet plainly
enough diſcovered their Intentions: However, he
had fuch good Intelligence, as to learn affuredly,
that there was a dangerous Confpiracy hatching
againſt the Spaniards; nor was it long before he
gained even fome of the Confpirators themſelves,
who gave him a full Account of the whole Treaſon,
aggravating the Circumftances, without forgetting
their own Intereft. A folemn Feſtival was drawing
near, which they were annually wont to celebrate
with thoſe publick Dances, called Mitotes, in which
there was a promifcuous Convention of Nobility
and Plebeians, and indeed an Affembly of the
whole City. This Day was pitched upon for their
putting their Enterprize in Execution, as fuppofing
that upon fuch an Occafion, they might affemble
openly, without being taken Notice of, or giving
any Jealoufy. Their Intention was to begin the
Dance, in order to get the common People toge-
ther, and then in a Body, followed by the Multi-
tude, to cry aloud for their Emperor's Liberty, and
the Defence of their Gods; poftponing the Publica-
tion of their Defigns till then, as being of too great
Importance to be hazarded among the Vulgar, till
they might reaſonable think themſelves fecure from
Danger by their Numbers; and in reality their
Scheme was not ill laid; nor is it often ſeen that
the Wicked are defective in Contrivances how to per-
petrate the Evil they have projected.
THE
110
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
THE Morning before the appointed Day, fome
of the chief Promoters of the Sedition came to vifit
Pedro de Alvarado, and afk'd his Permiffion to cele-
brate their Feftival, which was no other than a for-
mal Compliment with which they thought to blind
him; and he not having as yet his Sufpicions fuffi-
ciently confirmed, granted their Requeft, upon Con-
dition that they ſhould not go armed, nor offer any
human Sacrifices: But that very Night he under-
ftood, that they were bufily employed in concealing
a confiderable Quantity of Arms in Houfes near
the Temple. This intirely diffipated all his Doubts,
and gave Occafion for a very rafh Action, which
yet had ſome Appearances of a Remedy, and might
have proved fo, if he had gone about it with due
Moderation. He refolved to affault them in the
Beginning of their Feftival, without giving them
Time to take Arms, or raife the Populace; and
accordingly he put it in Execution, going out at
the Hour appointed, accompanied with fifty of his
Men, as if his Curiofity to fee the Diverſion had
led him thither. He found them all in a Manner
intoxicated with Liquor, and Excefs of Joy, that
their Treafon was hitherto undiſcovered, and in fo
great a Forwardneſs. He attacked and put them
to Flight with little or no Refiftance, wounding and
killing feveral who delayed running away, or leap-
ing from the Galleries and Windows of the Temple.
His Defign was only to terrify and difperfe them,
which he indeed very eafily compaffed, but not
without Diſorder; for the Spaniards inftantly fell
to ftripping the Dead and Wounded of their Jewels
and Ornaments of Value: A Liberty not to be
pre-
vented at that Time, nor ever without the greateſt
Difficulty, when a Soldier finds himſelf with a Sword
in his Hand, and Gold in View.
PEDRO
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
III
PEDRO DE ALVARADO managed this Affair with
more Heat than Forefight. He retired with the
Satisfaction of a Conqueror, without acquainting the
Populace with the Motives of his Anger. He ought
immediately, upon the Spot, to have publiſhed the
Treachery which thofe Nobles had been contriving
againſt him; and ſhould have expofed the Arms
they had concealed, or have done fomething on his
Part to gain, in his Favour, the Votes of the com-
mon People, who are always very eafily moved
againſt the Nobility: But he returned well fatisfied
and convinced that the Chaſtiſement he inflicted
upon the Indians had been juſt, and the Refolution
abfolutely neceffary, and was ignorant how much
it imported a fuccefsful Action to be fupported by
Equity and Reafon. Thofe People who knew no-
thing at all of the Provocation, and beheld the
Slaughter of the Nobility, and Spoil of their Jewels,
attributed the whole Action to an avaricious Thirft,
and were fo enraged, that they preſently ran to their
Arms, and with little or no Solicitation from the
firft Confpirators, incorporated themſelves into their
Body, by which Means the Sedition was inſtantly
fwelled to a moft formidable Monſter.
HERNAN CORTES reprehended Pedro de Alva-
rado for his rafh Procedure, and eſpecially for his
Want of Confideration, in hazarding himſelf and
the beſt Part of his Forces, upon a Day when all
the City was in Commotion, leaving his Quarters,
and what ſhould have been his chief Care, expofed
to any Accident which might happen. He was
likewife much concerned, that he had concealed
from Motezuma the firft Notices he received of that
Difturbance; for Alvarado did not confide in that
Prince, till he ſaw him by his Side in the fucceed-
ing Difpute; whereas he fhould have communi-
cated to him his Sufpicions, if not to make Ufe of
his
112
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
his Authority, yet, at leaſt, to found his Mind, in
order to diſcover whether or no it was fafe to leave
him with fo weak a Garrifon, which was the fame.
Thing as to turn his Back upon an Enemy of whom
he ought to have been moft jealous. He blamed
his Inadvertency that he did not publickly juftify
himſelf to the People, and even to the Delinquents
themſelves, for fuch a violent Proceeding. By all
which it is manifeftly obvious, that neither in the
Action itſelf, nor the Motives, or Circumſtances,
was there any of that premeditated Malice which
has been imputed to him: For moft certainly Cor-
tes would not have been fatisfied with reprehend-
ing only a Miſdemeanor of ſo much Injuftice and
Cruelty, nor would have let flip that Opportunity
of puniſhing, or at leaſt confining him, in order to
introduce Peace by that kind of Satisfaction: But,
on the contrary, we find that Alvarado himſelf pro-
pofed his own Impriſonment, as a Means to faci-
litate the Reduction of thofe People, but Cortes did
not approve of that Method, becauſe he thought
it was a better Way to make Ufe of the fame Rea-
fon, which Alvarado himſelf had againſt the firſt
Mutineers, to undeceive the Populace, and weaken
the Faction of the Nobility.
THE Seditious kept clofe all the Evening, nor
was there afterwards any Thing to diſturb the Quiet
of that Night. The Morning came, and Hernan
Cortes obferving the fame fufpicious Silence to be
ftill among the Enemy, made no Doubt bút that
they were at their Cabals, fince not one Soul was
to be ſeen in the Streets, nor any where about, as
far as the Eye could difcern; infomuch, that he or-
dered Diego de Ordaz out into the City to dive into
the Bottom of that Myſtery. He took with him
four hundred Spanish and Tlafcalan Soldiers, and in
good Order began to march through the principal
Streets.
Book IV.
Conquest of MEXICO.
113
Streets. He had not gone far before he diſcovered
a pretty numerous Company of armed Men, which
the Enemy, it ſeems, had detached on purpoſe to
decoy and draw him on; and he ftill advancing
with a Deſign to make fome Prifoners, in order to
get Intelligence, difcovered an innumerable Multi-
tude of Indians, who marched up to his Front;
when looking back, he beheld another Army in his
Rear, which had been concealed in the neighbour-
ing Streets, on each Side, cutting off his Retreat.
Both Bodies attacked him at once with equal Fury,
and at the fame Time there appeared at the Win-
dows, and in the Terraces of the Houfes, a third
Army of the common People, which in a Manner
hindered our Men from breathing, darkening the
Air with Stones, and all Sorts of miffive Weapons.
DIEGO DE ORDAZ, who, upon this Occafion,
ftood in Need of all his Valour, Refolution and
Experience to extricate himſelf, with Speed, and in
good Order, from the Danger he was in, divided
his Battalion according to the Ground, making a
fecond Front with his Rear, employing Pikes and
Swords againſt the two Torrents of Enemies below,
and plying his Fire-Arms againſt thoſe who were
above. It was wholly impracticable for him to ad-
vertiſe Cortes of the Danger he was in; nor did the Ge-
neral think it any way neceffary to reinforce him with-
out fuch Notice, as prefuming that he had fufficient
Force to execute the Orders he had given him: But
the Heat of the Engagement was of no long Con-
tinuance; for the Indians attacked fo tumultuouſly,
that, confounded by their own Numbers, they hin-
dered each other from making Ufe of their Arms;
and fo many of them loft their Lives at the firſt
Affault, that the reft retired to fuch a Diſtance,
that they could neither offend, nor be offended.
The Fire-Arms quickly cleared the Terraces; and
VOL. II.
Diego
I
114
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Diego de Ordaz, who only came to make Difco-
veries, thought it not proper to engage himſelf too
far, and perceiving that the Enemy befieged him
at a Diſtance, reduced now to fight with their
Tongues, as the only Weapons they could uſe,
loading him with loud Threats, and fcurrilous Lan-
guage, refolved to retreat, by opening a Paffage
with his Sword: So that having given Orders, and
marching in the fame Form in which he then was,
he vigorously attacked thoſe who were pofted be-
tween him and the Quarters, as he, at the ſame
Time, did thoſe who were in the Rear, or who
appeared upon the Tops of the Houfes. He com-
paffed his Retreat with Difficulty, and not with-
out the Expence of fome Blood; for he himſelf,
together with the greateſt Part of his Men, were
wounded, and he left eight dead upon the Spot,
whom they could not poffibly bring off. It is likely
they were Tlafcalans, becaufe Mention is only made
of one Spaniard, who behaved himſelf remarkably
well that Day, and died difcharging his Duty.
Bernal Diaz del Caftillo gives a particular Account
of his Behaviour, and fays, that his Name was
Lezcano. The reft of the Authors do not mention
him at all, fo that his true Name is not pofitively
known, which deferved to be tranfmitted to Pofte
rity, who nevertheleſs, under that Name, honour
the Memory of that valiant Soldier. Cortes be-
came fenfible, by what had happened, that it was
no Time now to endeavour at, or even to think
of making any Propoſals for an Accommodation,
which would leffen his own Reputation, and aug-
ment the Infolence of the Seditious. He deter-
mined therefore to make it defired by the Enemy,
rather than propoſe it himſelf, and to make a Sally
out into the City with the greateſt Part of his
Troops, in order to oblige them, by Dint of Ho-
ftilities,
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
115
ftilities, to ſeek for Peace. There was at that Time
none, by whofe Means he could introduce the
Treaty. As for Motezuma, he was diffident of
his own Authority, being apprehenfive of the Dif
obedience of his Vaffals. Among the Rebels no
one either commanded or obeyed, or rather they
all commanded and none obeyed: A Mob, con-
fufed, ungovernable, without Diftinction or Difci-
pline, promifcuouſly compofed of Nobles and Ple-
beians. Cortes defired, with all his Heart, to fol-
low the Path of Moderation, and was not alto-
gether without Hopes of bringing Matters to an
Accommodation; but he thought it neceffary to
make it be fought by the Mutineers, before he un-
dertook to perfuade, in which he acted like a pru-
dent and cautious Commander: For it is never
ſafe to truſt to difarmed Reaſon to appeaſe the
Fury of a feditious People; it being liftened to
with but little Attention, when it is not powerfully
ſupported; and Faction is an inexorable Monſter,
with an Infinity of Heads, but not one Ear.
CHA P. XIII.
The Mexicans affault the Spanish Quarters, and
are repulfed. Cortes makes two Sallies, and
though the Enemy are both Times defeated,
and put to Flight with great Slaughter, yet
he doubts his being able to reduce them.
HE Mexicans purfued Diego de Ordaz, eſteem-
ing his Retreat no better than a Flight, following
the Chace with a diforderly Fury, till the Artillery
from the Quarters, with a terrible Slaughter, oblig'd
I 2
them
116
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
1
r
them to give back, as far as was neceffary, to be
out of the Reach of that Danger; but they halted
in Sight, and by their Silence, and the Diligence
with which they were putting themſelves in Order,
it was plainly perceived that they were forming
fome new Defign.
THEIR Intent was vigoroufly to affault the Quar-
ters on every Side; and all the Streets thereabouts
were immediately filled with People; after which
the Drums and Shells made the Signal for the At-
tack. They all advanced at once, with great Fury
and Precipitation. Their Van-Guard was compofed
of Companies of Archers, that by clearing the
Walls the reft might approach. Their Difcharges
were fo inexpreffibly thick, in order to make Room
for thofe who were appointed for the Affault, that
the Defendants found themfelves in no finall Con-
fufion, being extremely put to it to defend them-
felves, and repulſe their Enemies at the fame Time.
The Quarters were in a Manner drowned in Arrows;
which Expreffion ought not to be taxed with being
too hyperbolical, fince the Spaniards were actually
obliged to appoint People on Purpoſe to remove
them, becauſe they were a fecond Time offenfive
by barring the Way to the Ramparts. The Artil-
lery and ſmall Fire-Arms made a terrible Deſtruc-
tion of the Enemy; but they came fo refolutely
determined either to conquer or to die, that they
advanced in Swarms to fill up the Vacancy of thoſe
who fell, and carried on the Attack with an intre-
pid Obftinacy, trampling upon the Dead and
Wounded indifferently.
SEVERAL put themfelves under the very Cannon,
and affaulted with incredible Refolution, making
Ufe of their flinted Inftruments to break the Gates,
and pick Holes in the Walls: Some got upon their
Companions Shoulders, that they might have the
Enemy
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
117
Enemy within the Reach of their Weapons; oth.rs
made Ladders of their own Lances and Pikes to
gain the Windows and Terraces; and all in general
expofed themſelves to Fire and Sword like enraged
Beafts. Notable Inftances of a fearless Temerity,
and which might have paffed for gallant Actions,
had true Valour performed that which, in reality,
was no other than a favage Ferocity.
BUT they were at laft repulfed, and retired, for
Cover, to the cross Streets, where they continued
till the Night's Approach difperfed them; rather
becauſe it was agreeable to the Cuſtom they had,
not to fight in the Sun's Abfence, than that they
gave over their Enterprize. On the contrary, they
had the Boldnefs, foon after, once more to alarm
the Spaniards, by fetting Fire to their Quarters in
different Parts, which they did, either by getting to
the Doors and Windows, in the Dark, or by fhoot-
ing Arrows from a Diſtance with artificial Fire,
which laft, indeed, feems moft probable, for the
Flame increaſed fo fuddenly, and took hold on the
Buildings with fuch an impetuous Rage, that they
were obliged, in order to prevent the Communica-
tion of the feveral Fires, to break down fome Walls,
and to toil afterwards in ſtopping up thofe Breaches
they had made, and to put them in a Pofture of
Defence; a Fatigue which lafted the greateſt Part
of the Night.
BUT fcarce did the firft Light of the Morning
appear, when the Enemy was diſcovered, feemingly
afraid to come within Reach of the Shot; for
they only provoked the Spaniards to fally forth from
their Walls. They dared them to Battle with inju-
rious Speeches, treating them as Cowards for lurk-
ing behind their Intrenchments; and Cortes, who
had before refolved to make a Sally upon them that
Day, took this Provocation for a good Opportunity
I 3
to
118
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
to fire the Minds of his People. He prepar'd them
with a fhort Difcourfe to revenge their Wrong, by
chaſtiſing the Infolence of thofe Barbarians, and,
without Delay, he form'd his whole Force into
Three Bodies, each confifting of Spaniards and
Tlafcalans: Two of theſe Battalions he ordered for
clearing the Croſs-Streets, and the Third, at the
Head of which he himſelf march'd in Perfon with
the choiceft of his Troops, took the Street of Ta-
cuba, where the greateſt Body of the Enemy was
pofted. He drew up his Men, and diftributed
Arms as Neceffity requir'd; for he was to engage
both in Front and Flank, following the Method
which Diego de Ordaz had obferv'd in his Retreat,
eſteeming that, which a little before had deferv'd
his Applaufe, to be now worthy his Imitation;
wherein he fhewed the Noblenefs of his Mind, and
that he was not ignorant how much thofe Superiors
hazard, who difdain to follow the Footsteps of
thoſe who are inferior to them in Command, and
how near they are to erring, who pretend to
diſtinguiſh themfelves from thoſe who have been
fucceſsful by their prudent Conduct.
THE Three Battalions engag'd at one Time, and
the Enemy both gave and receiv'd the first Charges
without lofing Ground, or being in the leaſt fenfi-
ble of Danger, venturing fo far as even to come
to Handy-Blows. Their Clubs and Two-handed
Swords were manag'd with a defperate Fury. Re-
gardleſs of Death, they broke in among the Pikes
and Swords of the Spaniards, to gain a Stroke at
the Price of Life. The Fire-Arms which were
levell❜d againſt the Galleries and Windows could
not divert the Shower of Stones which inceffantly
came from thence, for they flung them without
diſcovering themſelves; and it was neceffary to fet
fome
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
119
fome Houſes on Fire, to put a Stop to that trou-
bleſome Hoftility.
THE Mexicans, at laſt, gave Way to the ſuperior
Valour of the Spaniards; but as they retreated,
they broke down the Bridges of the Streets, and
thew'd themſelves on the other Side; obliging the
Epaniards to fill up the Ditches, ftill fighting all
the while, before they could profecute the Victory.
Thoſe who were detach'd to clear the Streets on
the Sides, charg❜d the Multitude that poffefs'd them
with fo much Refolution, that they fecur'd the
Retreat, and always kept the Enemy in Front,
till having advanc'd as far as the Opening into a
large Square, the Three Bodies join'd, and at the
firſt Attack fo difhearten'd the Indians, that they
turn'd their Backs with great Precipitation and
Confufion, treading one another under Foot, and
fhewing the fame Impetuofity in their Flight, as
they had done in the Battel.
CORTES would not fuffer his People to profecute
the Victory with a farther Slaughter of thofe Vaf-
fals of Motezuma, already routed, and flying in
the utmoſt Diſorder; whether it was that his Heart
relented at the Blood already fpilt, and difdain'd
intirely to deſtroy a vanquifh'd Enemy, or that he
thought he had chaftiz'd their Prefumption with
fufficient Rigour. He therefore gathered up his
Troops, and retired without meeting with the leaft
Oppofition. He loft Ten or Twelve Soldiers, and
had many wounded, chiefly by Stones or Arrows,
but none dangeroufly. The Number that the
Mexicans loft was fo great that the Bodies which
they could not carry off, having firft ting'd the
Canals with their Blood, remained as a Spectacle
of Horror in the Streets in incredible Heaps.
The Engagement lafted all the Morning, the Spa-
niards were fometimes very hard put to it, and
I 4
their
1
120
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
their Succeſs was intirely owing to their Experience,
Valour, and good Difcipline. There was no one
who could in particular be faid to excel; becauſe
all in general acted with equal Bravery, as well
Soldiers as Officers, and their Exploits reciprocally
effac'd each other. The Tlafcalans behav'd them-
felves, by the generous Example fet them by the
Spaniards, valiantly, without Precipitation or Rafh-
nefs; and Cortes conducted the whole Action like a
courageous and prudent Commander, being prefent
every-where, but more eſpecially where the Danger
was greateft, his Sword always in the Face of his
Enemy, his Eye on his own People, his Care where-
ever Occafion requir'd; leaving it in Doubt whether
more was owing to his perfonal Bravery, or to his
confummate Military Skill, both which Virtues he
poffefs'd in an eminent Degree, and are Qualites
defirable without Diſtinction, and concur without
Preference in great Commanders.
Ir was neceffary to allow fome Time for refreſh-
ing his tir'd Troops, and for the Cure of the
Wounded; which Sufpenfion lafted Three Days, or
fomething more; during which Interval they only
took Care of the Defence of the Quarters, having
the Army of the Mutineers conftantly in View,
with whom they had fome light Skirmishes, a
Mixture of flying and fighting. In this Time Her-
nan Cortes artfully renewed his Overtures of Peace
by Means of fome Mexicans, in the Service of
Motezuma, who went with feveral Propofals; but
he was not negligent, during the Negotiation, but
made all neceffary Preparation for War. He or-
dered Four Towers of Wood to be built, which
mov'd upon Weels with little Difficulty, and were
to be us❜d againſt the Enemy, in cafe there fhould
be Occafion for a new Sally. Each of thoſe
Towers was capable of containing Twenty or
Thirty
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
121
Thirty Men, the Rroof defended by thick Planks,
fufficient to refift the Stones which might be caſt
from the Houfes, the Front and Sides with Loop-
Holes to diſcharge under Cover, in Imitation of
the great Engines us'd in War, which cover Men
to undermine the Walls of a Town. This Defence
he thought, at that Juncture, very proper to fhelter
his Soldiers, in the firing of Houfes, and breaking
thro' the Trenches with which they were ſtopping
up the Streets; and, if theſe rolling Machines were
not good for engaging, yet, the Novelty of them
would be uſeful by amazing the Enemy.
Of the Mexicans who were fent out with Propo-
fals of Peace, fome return'd ill-treated, and others.
remain'd among the Rebels, to the great Diffatif-
faction of Motezuma, who earnestly defired the Re-
duction of his feditious Subjects, and conceal'd,
under a Maſk eaſy to be feen through, the Jealouſy
he had, left they fhould intirely ſhake off their
Obedience, and lofe all Fear of his Authority. At
this Time they were making new Preparations for
War in the City. Thoſe of the mutinous Nobility
who had Vaffals of their own, fummon'd the Peo-
ple of their reſpective Diſtricts: The Force of the
Army continually increas'd; nor did they ceafe to
provoke the Spaniards in their Quarters, who were
now quite tir'd with bearing the troublefome Re-
petition of Menaces and Arrows, which tho' they
were equally loft in the Air, did not fail to offend
and weary out their Patience.
WITH this good Difpofition of his People, the
Opinion of his Captains, and the Approbation of
Motezuma, Cortes made a fecond Sally againſt the
Mexicans: He took with him the greateſt Part of
the Spaniards, and about Two Thousand Tlafcalans,
fome Pieces of Artillery, the Wooden Machines,
and fome Led-Horfes to be us'd upon all Oc-
cafions where the Breakings of the Ground did not
render
122
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
render them ufelefs. The feditious Mexicans were
then in a profound Silence; but the Spaniards had
fcarce begun their March, when the Difficulty of
the Undertaking was quickly known by the fud-
den Shouts of an innumerable Multitude, alternate
with the hoarfe and difmal Sound of their Drums and
Sea-Shells. The Rebels did not wait till they were
attack'd, but on the contrary they came up to the
Spaniards with furprizing Reſolution, and much leſs
Confufion than they were wont. They gave and
receiv'd the firſt Charges, without Diſorder or Pre-
cipitation; but it was not long before they were
fenfible of the Damage they fuftain'd, and retired
by little and little, without turning their Backs, to
the first Entrenchments they had made in the
Streets; in Defence of which they renew'd the
Fight with fo much Obftinacy, that it was necef-
fary to advance fome Pieces of Artillery to diſlodge
them. They had their Retreats very near, and in
fome the Bridges of the Canals were taken up,
which increas'd the Difficulty, and there was no
Way of engaging them from under Cover. This
Day the Spaniards obferved in the Conduct of their
Enemies fome very politick and confiderate Ac-
tions, and fuch as made the War appear more than
a Popular Tumult. They all difcharged at the
fame Time, lowering their Arm, that they might
not loſe their Shot by the Refiftance of the Spanish
Armour. They defended their Pofts with Obſti-
nacy, and abandon'd them without Confuſion:
They fent feveral Men into the Canals, that as they
fwam up and down, they might pufh at the
Spaniards, and wound them with their Pikes:
They had got up huge Pieces of Rocks into their
Galleries, to deſtroy the Wooden Towers, and
perform'd it, breaking them all to Shatters: By
theſe and many other Signs, it was eaſily perceiv'd
7
that
巍
​Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
123
that fome One commanded them; for they ani-
mated and ſupported each other feaſonably, and in
the very Diſorders of a Seditious Multitude, they
fhew'd fome Sort of Obedience and Difcipline.
·
THE Engagement lafted the greateſt Part of the
Day; the Spaniards and their Confederates were
forc'd to gain the Ground from Trench to Trench:
Much Damage was done to the City, many Houſes
burn'd, and the Mexicans loft more Bood upon this
Occafion than they had done in the Two prece-
ding Actions, either that they advanc'd nearer to
the Fire-Arms, or becauſe they could not fly as
they were accuſtomed, being hinder'd by their
own Entrenchments.
THE Night drew on apace; and Cortes, with
Concern, finding himfelf engag'd in the fruit-
lefs Difpute of gaining Pofts which he could not
maintain, retired to his Quarters, leaving the Sedi-
tion, in Reality, rather chaftis'd than quell'd. He
loft about Forty Soldiers, moft of them Tlafcalans,
had above Fifty Spaniards forely wounded, and
himſelf ſhot with an Arrow in the Left Hand;
but his inward Wound was far the worft, by being
fenfible, upon this Occafion, that it was not poffible
to continue fo unequal a War without running the
Rifque of lofing both his Army and his Reputation :
The firft Shock his Courage had felt, and which
greatly diftrefs'd his Conftancy. He fhut himſelf
up under Pretence of his Wound, but with a De-
fign to give himſelf up to Thought. The greateſt
Part of the Night he ſpent in Reflection: He was
concern❜d and vex'd to quit Mexico, and could find
no Means of maintaining his Ground there. He
endeavour'd to exert himſelf againſt the Difficulty,
but found that Reafon took Part with his Sufpi-
cions. His good Senfe and Forefight would not
agree with his natural Fire and Vigour, and all
was
124
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
was difputing without refolving: Diffatisfy'd with
the Dictates of Prudence, and impatient at the
Pain which the Mind fuffers in being undeceiv'd,
before it can profit by it.
CHAP. XIV.
Motezuma exhorts Cortes to retire from Mexi-
co, which he offers to do afoon as the Sedi-
tious have laid down their Arms. They re-
turn to attempt another Afault. Motezuma
Speaks to them from the Wall, and is wound-
ed, lofing all Hopes of reducing them.
NOR
OR did Mctezuma paſs the Night in lefs Dif-
quiet. He doubted the Fidelity of his Vaf-
fals, and his Mind was affaulted by contrary Paf-
fions; of which fome footh'd, and others oppos'd
his Inclinations: Anger carryed him to Violence;
Fear to Moderation; and his Pride gave him a
Repugnance to any Condefcenfion. He was that
Day on the higheſt Tower of the Palace, obferving
the Battle, and diſtinguiſh'd among the Rebels the
Lord of Iztapalapa, and other Princes, who might
afpire to the Empire. He faw them running here
and there, animating the Combatants, and order-
ing the Action. He had not, as yet, fufpected his
Nobles would have engaged in fuch manifeſt Out-
rages His Anger and Concern increas'd at once,
and his Anger prevail'd; the firft Motion of his
Temper giving them up to Deſtruction, breathing
nothing but Blood and Slaughter: But a little after
reflecting how far the Evil was fpread, and the Tu-
mult now converted into Treafon and Rebellion in
all
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
125
all its Forms, he funk down quite difpirited, re-
maining without Refolution to apply a Remedy,
and every Impulfe of his natural Ferocity gave
Way to Fear and Weakneſs. Nothing appears fo
terrible to a Tyrant as the Thoughts of his Crown
being in Danger; nor are any, generally fpeaking,
fo fufceptible of Fear as thofe who are ambitious of
being fear'd.
HE reflected with Deliberation upon various
Means of re-eſtabliſhing his finking Authority, and
none appeared better than immediately to fend
away the Spaniards, to return to his Palace, and
there to uſe Lenity towards the Revoiters, before
he proceeded to lift up the Hand of Juftice. In
the Morning he fent for Cortes, and with a good
deal of Addreſs, communicated to him the Cauſe
of his Concern. With an affected Security he ag-
gravated and exclaim'd againſt the Infolence of his
Nobles, endeavouring to make him believe, that
his Thoughts were more taken up about the Man-
ner of chaſtifing them, than with any Fear he had
from their Revolt; and went on faying, "That
"now the Troubles of his Kingdom requir'd
a ſpeedy Remedy; and that it was neceffary
(c
..
to take away all Pretences from the Seditious,
"and to make them fenfible of their Error, be-
"fore he puniſhed their Crime: That all Tumults
"were founded upon fome Appearances of Rea-
"fon; and that in the reducing of a Multitude,
"it was prudent to make Conceffions at the Be-
ginning, in order to command more abfoletely
afterward: That the Clamours of his Vaffals
"had, on their Side, the Excufe of founding well,
"fince all they demanded was the Liberty of
"their Prince, being perfuaded that he did not
(C
enjoy it, and miſtaken in the Method of obtain-
ing it: That Things were now come to that pafs,
«‹ that
126
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
"that Cortes and his People muft unavoidably
"leave Mexico without Delay, that he himſelf
"might, by his own Autority, fubject the Rebels,
"and extinguish the Fire, by removing the
"Caufe.' He repeated how much he had ſuf-
fered for not violating his Word with the Spani-
ards, and touch'd lightly upon thofe Jealoufies
which gave him moft Concern: But the Inftances
he made to Cortès not to oppofe his Demands, were
fo fubmiffive, that the Influences of Fear plainly
diſcovered themſelves in the Earneftnefs of the
Requeſt.
66
CORTES himſelf was of opinion, that it was
convenient for him, in the preſent Juncture of
Affairs, to retreat, but not without Hopes of re-
fuming the Enterprize upon a better Foundation:
And recollecting his Thoughts on that Point,
which made the Propofal feem the lefs ftrange, he
readily anſwer'd: "That it was both his Inclina-
tion and Opinion to obey him with an intire Re-
fignation; defiring only to do that which ſhould
"be moſt pleafing and agreeable to him, without
"entering into the Motives of his Refolution, or
lofing Time in repreſenting the Inconveniencies
"that might attend it, which without doubt he
"forefaw, and had confider'd; for in Difcuffions
"of this Kind, the Inferior ought always to fub-
"mit his Judgment, the Will of Princes being a
* fufficient Reafon. That nevertheleſs he fhould
"be much troubled to go from him, without
66
.
leaving him fully affured of the Obedience of
"his Vaffals; particularly, fince that dangerous
"Circumſtance of the Nobility's having declared
"for the Populace, required greater Precautions,
"and his utmoft Care: For when once the No-
"bility break the Bonds of Duty and Loyalty, they
"have the greateſt Attempts in View, and ſtick at
66
nothing. But that it was not for him to offer
❝ Reaſons
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
127
"
66
"Reafons to delay his March, fince his Majefty
"had propos'd it as a neceffary Remedy, as being
"fenfible of the Infirmity and Humours under
"which his Kingdom labour'd: Upon which Sup-
pofition, and his own fix'd Refolution immedi-
ately to march with his Army for Zempoala,
"he humbly intreated his Majefty, that before his
Departure he would oblige his Vaffals to lay
"down their Arms; becauſe it would be of bad
<C
CC
<<
Confequence, that they fhould attribute to their
"Rebellion what they ow'd to their Sovereign's
"Goodneſs: That he propos'd this more out of
"Refpect to his Royal Authority, than for any
"Trouble or Concern the Obftinacy of the Rebels
<<
gave him; for he defifted from farther chaſtizing
"them out of pure Regard to him, carrying on
"the Point of his Sword, and in the Valour of his
Troops, every Thing that was neceffary to fe-
<c cure his Retreat."
..
MOTEZUMA did not expect fuch a ready Com-
pliance in the Anfwer of Cortes, but imagined he
ſhould have met with greater Refiftance, which
might have occafion'd him much Trouble in con-
tending and difputing that Point upon which he
had fo fully deliberated and refolv'd. He made his
Acknowledgment to Cortes with a great deal of
Joy, and both his Voice and Countenance fuffici-
ently exprefs'd the Satisfaction of his Mind. He
offer'd to command the Revolters immediately to
lay down their Arms, approving of that Advice,
and thinking it neceffary to the end that his Vaffals
might come lefs unworthy to capitulate with their
Prince; a Point which he had not confider'd be-
fore: Yet ftill he was inwardly concern'd at his
being forc'd to temporize fo far with thoſe who
merited nothing but his Diſpleaſure, nor was he
very fkilful in the Art of joining Sovereignty with
Diffimulation.
128
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Diffimulation. Before this Conference ended, an
Alarm was founded in the Quarters. Cortes imme-
diately haftened to their Defence, and found his
People all preparing to refift a general Affault the
Enemy was just going to begin on every Side. As
the Garriſon was always vigilant, they were received
with the utmoſt Rigour of the Fire-Arms; but no-
thing was able to ftop them, for thoſe Rebels
ſhut their Eyes to all Danger, and drove each other
on with ſo much Precipitation, that their Van-
Guard, in Appearance, without their own proper
Movement, were in an Inftant at the Foot of the
Wall. Their Bows and Slings, which were left at
a convenient Diſtance, began to repeat their Dif-
charges, to beat off thoſe who were upon the Ram-
parts to refift the Affault, which was puſhed on and
oppoſed with equal Refolution. In fome Parts the
Enemy got Footing within the very Works, and
Cortes, who had formed a Body of Referve, com-
pofed of Tlafcalans and Spaniards, in the principal
Court, repaired with new Succours to the Pofts
which were moſt expoſed, having Occafion for all
his Activity, and all the Courage of his Troops,
that the Defence might not flacken, nor the Enemy
come to underſtand the Advantage which Numbers
have over even Valour itſelf.
MOTEZUMA, being foon informed of the Con-
flict in which the Spaniards were engaged, called
Donna Marina, and fent her to Cortes to propoſe,
"That according to the prefent State of Affairs,
"and conformable to what they had both agreed
66
upon, it would be very convenient that he ſhould
"fhew himſelf to his Vaffals from the Wall, to
"command the feditious Populace to retire, and
"the Nobles to make their perfonal Appearance
"in his Prefence, difarmed, and there to repreſent
"what it was that both the one and the other de-
fired,"
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
129
"fired." Cortes did not diflike the Propoſal, but
thought this Expedient neceffary, that his People
might breathe a little, though it fhould not be fuf-
ficient to overcome the Obftinacy of that inflexible
Multitude. Motezuma inſtantly difpofed himfelf
to put his Defign in Execution, with an impatient
Concern to know the Minds of his Subjects, with
regard to his own Perfon. He caufed himfelf to
be adorned with his Royal Robes, called for his
Crown and Imperial Mantle, not forgetting the
Jewels which he was accuſtomed to wear upon pub-
lick Occaſions, nor other affected Formalities,
which fufficiently publiſhed his Diffidence; making
it appear by all this Care, that he ſtood in Need of
exterior Shew to gain Refpect, and that the Affift-
ance of Purple and Gold was neceffary to cover and
conceal the interior Weakneſs of Majefty. With all
this Pomp and Grandeur, attended by the principal
Mexicans who continued in his Service, he mounted
the Terrace which was oppofite to the great Ave-
The Garriſon was drawn up in Ranks for
him to paſs through, and one of the Mexicans of
the Emperor's Equipage advancing to the Rails,
with a loud Voice called out to the Rebels, to pre-
pare themſelves with Reverence and Attention, for
the Great Motezuma had condefcended to come
forth in order to hear their Demands, and fhew
them further Favour. At the hearing of his Name
the Outcries ceafed, Terror fucceeded, and got the
better of Fury, and they remained motionleſs, feem-
ing as if they were afraid even to breathe. Mote-
zuma then ſhewed himſelf to the expecting Multi-
tude, with a Countenance of Severity mixed with
Lenity, which at once expreffed both his Anger and
his Fear. Many bent the Knee when they faw him,
but the moſt Part humbled themſelves fo far as to
touch the Earth with their Foreheads, having Rea-
VOL. II.
nue.
K
fon
R
130
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
fon to fear him, as well as a Cuftom of worſhip-
ping him. He first caft his Looks, on all in gene-
ral, and then upon the Nobles in particular, with a
Shew of taking Notice of thofe he knew. He com-
manded that fome fhould draw near, calling them
by their Names. He honoured them with the Title
of Friends and Kinfmen, putting a Force on his
Indignation: He acknowledged, with a proper De-
cency of Expreffion, the Affection with which they
defired his Liberty; and the Harangue he made
them, though we find it differently related, was,
according to the Report of the Majority, to the
following Tenor:
I
Am So far, my Veſſels, from looking upon this Ex-
preffion of your Zeal as a Crime, that I cannot deny
my being inclined to excufe you. It was, indeed, an
Exceſs to take up Arms without my Leave; but it was
an Excess of your Fidelity. You believed, and not
without Appearance of Reason, that I was detained
by Force and Violence in this Palace of my Predecef-
fors; and to relieve your Sovereign from Oppreffion, is
too great an Enterprize to be attempted without fome
Diſorder, fince no Laws are fufficient to restrain an
Excess of Refentment and Grief within the Bounds of
Moderation and Prudence: And notwithstanding the
Occafion of this your Commotion be with fmall Foun-
dation, (because I am without any Manner of Violence
among thefe Foreigners whom you treat as Enemies) I
now fee your Inclinations are good, though you are
miftaken in your Method of proceeding. It is by my
own voluntary Option that I have continued with them,
and thought myself obliged to shew them this Favour,
on account of the Refpect they have always paid me,
and out of Ďuty to the Prince who fends them. They
are now dispatched: I have now refolved, that they
fball depart my Court; and they are preparing imme-
diately
Book IV.
131
Conquest of MEXICO.
diately to quit the Country: But it is not reaſonable,
that I ſhould be sooner obeyed by them than by you,
who are my natural Subjects; ncr that their Courtesy
fhould appear greater than your Duty. Lay down your
Arms, and come to my Prefence as you ought, that all
Tumults and Disturbance ceafing, you may be con-
vinced how much you are in my Favour, by the Par-
don I am ready to give you.
THUS Motezuma concluded his Harangue; and
no one was fo bold as to attempt making a Reply.
Some beheld him with Aſtoniſhment and Confu-
fion, to find a Requeft where they expected nothing
but Indignation; others wept to ſee their Monarch
fo humble, or, which founds much worfe, fo hum-
bled: But at the very Time of this Sufpenfion, the
Populace began again to be in Commotion, and in
an Inftant paffed from Fear to Fury; eafy at all
Times to be led into Extremes: Nor did there
want one to foment it, when they had elected a new
Emperor, or at leaſt had refolved on the Choice;
for in our Hiſtorians we find it differently related.
THEIR Difreſpect immediately was converted
into Contempt. They told him aloud, that he was
no longer their King, and that he fhould quit the
Diadem and Sceptre for the Diſtaff and Spindle;
giving him the opprobrious Names of pufillanimous,
effeminate Coward, an abject Prifoner, and Slave
to his Enemies: Their injurious Language was
drown'd by loud and repeated Shouts; and he en-
deavoured, by the Motions both of his Head and
his Hands, to be heard, when the Multitude began
to advance, and let fly their Arrows againſt him,
whereby he became fenfible of the utmoſt Infolence
of his rebellious Vaffals. Two Soldiers, which
Cortes, foreſeeing this Danger, had placed at his Side,
endeavoured to cover him with their Bucklers; but
K 2
all
132 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
all their Care was not fufficient to prevent his being
touch'd by fome Arrows, and very rigorously by a
Stone which wounded him in the Head, breaking
Part of his Temple, with which Blow he fell down
fenfelefs to the Ground; an Accident which exceed-
ingly troubled Cortes, as being one of the moſt un-
feaſonable Misfortunes that could have poffibly hap-
pened. He inftantly caufed him to be carried to
his Apartment, and with freſh Refentment and In-
dignation, repaired to the Defence of the Ram-
parts: But he found no Enemy on whom he could
vent his Anger; for the Mexicans no fooner beheld
their Emperor fall, by which they had Reafon to
believe that he was wounded, but they were fo
aſtoniſhed at the Crime they had committed, that
flying, without knowing from whom, as imagining
that the Vengeance of their Gods purfued them, they
ran to hide themſelves from divine Wrath, with that
kind of Confufion, or Confternation, wherewith the
Mind is wont to be oppreffed after the committing
of enormous and heinous Crimes.
CORTES immediately repaired to Motezuma
Apartment, who foon after recovered his Senſes,
and came to himſelf; but ſo impatient, and full of
Indignation, that it was neceffary to hold him, in
order to prevent him from doing himſelf a Mil-
chief. It was impoffible to drefs his Wound, be-
cauſe he tore away whatever Medicines were applied,
and he broke out into moft furious Threats, which
ended in Sighs and Lamentations: Rage did its
utmoft, but at laft dwindled into Pufillanimity:
Perfuafion offended, and Confolation exafperated
and angered him: He recovered his Senfes only to
lofe his Underſtanding. It appeared neceffary to
leave him for a while, and allow fome Time for
Confideration, that he might get rid of the firſt Im-
preffions of the Infult had been offered him. Over-
whelmed
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
133
whelmed with exceffive Grief, he was left to the
Care of his Attendants, continually battling with
the Violence of his Temper, and the Defpondency
of his Mind, without Spirit enough left even to
think of attempting Vengeance upon the Traitors,
but efteeming, as a moſt heroick Exploit, the Re-
folution of dying by his own Hands. A barbarous
Recourſe of cowardly Minds, who fink beneath Ca-
lamity, and are only valiant againſt that which can
leaſt oppoſe them.
CHA P. XV.
Motezuma dies of his Wounds, obftinately re-
fusing to receive Baptifm. Cortes fends his
Body to the Mexicans, who celebrate his
Ob/cquies. His perfonal Qualities and Cha-
racter.
MOT
OTEZUMA perfevered in his Impatience,
and at the fame Time his Wounds grew
worfe; it being a common Obfervation, how great
Influence the Paffions of the Mind have over the
Corruption of the Humours. The Wound in his
Head was at firft looked upon as dangerous, and
his inward Agitations quickly made it mortal; nor
was it by any Means poffible to apply the neceffary
Remedies, till he grew fo weak that he had not
Force to refift. Thoſe who attended him were no
lefs put to it to oblige him to take fome Nouriſh-
ment, the want of which had already brought him
very low; and he feemed to have nothing of
Strength or Vigour left, but only in his determi-
nate Refolution of putting an End to his Life with
K 3
his
134
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
his own Hands; his Defpair increafing as his
Strength decayed. His Danger was known in Time,
and Cortes, who feldom left him, becauſe, when he
was prefent, he moderated his Grief, and fomewhat
compofed himſelf, uſed his utmoſt Endeavours, by
preffing Inftances, to perfuade him to that which
moft of all imported him. He took all proper
Opportunities to touch upon Religion, calling upon
him with gentle and pathetick Arguments to a De-
teftation of his Errors, and to feek the Knowledge
of Truth. Upon fome Occafions he had fhewn
fome fort of Inclination to the Rites and Precepts
of the Catholick Faith, feemed to be diffatisfied
with the Abfurdities of Idolatry, and began to give
fome Hopes of his Converfion; but always put it
off for fome diabolical Reafon of State, having a
Regard to the Superftition of others, though his
own had left him, and fearing his Subjects more
than he reverenced his Gods.
CORTES, on his Part, did all that the Duty of a
Christian required. He intreated him, with all poſ-
fible Fervour and Tenderneſs, to acknowledge the
true God; and, by receiving Baptifm, to fecure to
himſelf a glorious Eternity in the next World. He
was preffed by Father Bartolome de Olmedo with Ar-
guments of ftill greater Force and Energy; nor
were the Officers, who were moft in that Prince's
Favour, lefs fedulous in their Endeavours to work
upon him. Donna Marina did not only inter-
pret, but joined Intreaties in the moſt perfuafive
Terms; and in Spite of all that Malice and Emu-
lation can fay, (for even in this refpect the Spa-
niards are charged with Neglect) no human Means
was omitted to induce him to turn into the Path
of Truth: But he would never return a rational
Anfwer, but always remote from the Point; now
exclaiming against the Infult he had received,
anon
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
135
anon breathing nothing but Threats of Vengeance,
then he would fall into Fits of Defpair, conjuring
Cortes to revenge his Injuries upon the Traitors. In
this miferable Conflict of Mind he continued three
Days, and then furrendered up to the Devil the
eternal Poffeffion of his Soul, employing the lateſt
Moments of his Breath in impious Thoughts of
facrificing his Enemies to his Fury and Revenge,
leaving to the World a terrible Example, how much
the Paffions are to be dreaded in the Hour of Death,
being always Enemies to Refignation, and moſt
predominant in the Great and Powerful, by Rea-
fon that as the Cuftom of obeying thofe Paffions
prevails, the Vigour diminishes which is requifite
to repreſs and ſubdue them.
THE Concern which the Death of this Prince
cauſed amongst the Spaniards was univerfal; for
they all in general loved him with an equal Affec-
tion, fome upon Account of his Liberality towards
them, and others for his benevolent Difpofition.
But Cortes, who was far more obliged to him than
all the reft, and whofe Lofs was incomparably
greater, took this cruel Stroke fo to Heart, that he
was quite inconfolable; and notwithſtanding he
endeavoured all he could to compofe himſelf, that
his People might not be difcouraged, he was not
able to conceal his inward Grief, but was frequently
obferved to let fall fome Tears which it was not in
his Power to refrain. He had founded the greateſt
Part of his Defigns in the voluntary Subjection of
that Prince. By his Death the beſt of his Hopes
were intirely loft, and he found himſelf under the
Neceffity of forming a new Plan, in order to attain
the Views he had propofed. What moft fenfibly
touched him was, his having died obftinate in his
Errors; the laft and greateſt Aggravation of this
Mi
sfor-
K 4
1
136
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
1
Misfortune, and an effential Point which divided
his Heart between Sorrow and Dread.
His first Care was to call together all the Ser-
vants of the deceafed Emperor, of whom he choſe
fix Perfons of the greateft Note to carry out the
Body into the City, in which Number were com-
prehended fome Priefts, who had been taken Pri-
foners, all of them Eye-Witneffes of his Wound
and Death. He ordered them, from him, to ac-
quaint the Princes who were at the Head of the
mutinous Populace, "That he had fent them the
"Corpfe of their late Sovereign, murdered by their
66
Hands, which enormous Crime gave freſh Right
to the Juftice of his Arms. That before his
"Death he had frequently requeſted, and with
moft preffing Inftances conjured him to revenge
"his Wrongs, and to chaftize them for their abo-
"minable Rebellion. But that looking on their
"Infurrection to have proceeded from the brutal
Fury of the Populace, and as an Infolence, the
66
66
Enormity whereof he hoped thoſe of better
"Senfe and Rank would take into Confideration
"and puniſh, he once more propofed Peace, gi-
"ving them Leave to fend their Deputies to make
હ
Propoſals towards an amicable Accommodation,
"affuring them, That he was ready to agree to
any reaſonable Conditions; but that at the fame
"Time he would have them to underftand, that
"if they did not immediately accept his Offer, and
$6 repent them of their Crime, they fhould not
"only be treated as Enemies, but as Rebels and
"Traitors to their Prince, experiencing the utmoſt
66
Rigour of his Arms: For that Motezuma (out of
"Refpect to whom he had with-held and mode-
"rated his juft Refentment) being now dead, he
"would lay wafte, and intirely deftroy their City;
and that they fhould, when too late, know by
"dear
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
137
"dear Experience the Difference between Hoftili-
"ties, when little more than barely defenſive (and
by which he had hitherto only endeavoured to
"reduce them to Reaſon) and a declared War, in
"which he lay under an Obligation to chaſtize
"them with the laft Severity."
•
THE fix Mexicans immediately departed with
this Meffage, bearing the Corpfe upon their Shoul-
ders; and at a fmall Diſtance from the Quarters,
a Body of the Seditious advanced to meet them,
not without fome Signs of Reverence and Reſpect,
as was obferved from the Walls. They all follow'd
the Corpfe, throwing down their Arms, and aban-
doning their Pofts; and in an Inftant the City was
filled with Outcries and Lamentations; a fufficient
Demonſtration that that melancholy Object, which
gave them a View of their treaſonable Practices, had
fome fort of Impreffion upon their obdurate Hearts.
They had already elected a new Emperor, as was
foon after known; fo that thofe Expreffions of
Grief could not proceed from a fincere Repentance;
nor could thoſe Remains of Loyalty found ill in
the Ears of the Succeffor, who muft needs look on
them as paid to the Name, and not to the Perfon
of the Sovereign. The Outcries and Clamours of
the People, who thronged up and down in Swarms,
lafted the whole Night, repeating through every
Street, the Name of Motezuma, with a kind of tu-
multuous Sorrow, which though it expreffed a Sort
of relenting Reflection, yet ftill carried the Face of
Sedition.
SOME fay, that they dragged the Body about the
Streets, and cut and mangled it all to Pieces, with-
out fparing his Children and Wives: Others, that
they expofed it to the Derifion and Contempt of
the common People, till one of his Servants, erect-
ing an humble and irregular Pile of Wood, in a
Place
138
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Place little frequented, and lefs decent, he there
reduced it to Aihes. What has been faid may be
believed of an enraged Populace, in whofe Inhu-
manity what ſeems fartheft from Decency and Rea-
fon carries the greateſt Face of Probability. But
the Truth of the Matter is, that the Rebels received
the Corpſe with Reverence, affecting, both in the
adorning it, and in the Funeral Pomp, to appear
concerned at his Death, as a Misfortune, in which
their Intention had no Share; or, perhaps, by that
exterior Shew of Refpect, they thought either to
appeaſe or to deceive their falfe Deities. They
conveyed him, the next Morning, with great So-
lemnity and Attendance, to the Mountain of Cha-
pultepeque, where they were accuſtomed to perform
the Exequies, and to preferve the Afhes of their
Kings; and upon this Occafion, the Outcries and
Lamentations of the Multitude refounded with
greater Force than was cuftomary, as they them-
felves afterwards confirmed, looking upon thoſe
Honours they had fhewn to the Afhes of their de-
ceafed Monarch as an Act of Atonement, and a
ſubſtantial Expiation of the Crime they had com-
mitted.
THERE have not wanted fome Pens who have
done all they could to charge Cortes with this
Prince's Death; affirming, That he ordered him to
be killed to free himſelf from the Trouble he gave
him: Nay, one of our Writers fays, That it was
fo reported, and neither defends or denies it; an
unpardonable Neglect, which without being a con-
vincing Proof of his evil Defign, is nevertheleſs
very like Calumny. Perhaps the Mexicans might,
fome Years afterwards, affirm it, to make the Spa-
niards hated by other People, or to remove the In-
famy from their own Nation: But at that Time it
is certain that they neither faid it, nor fo much as
imagined
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
139
imagined any fuch Thing; nor ought any Writers
to give themſelves the Liberty of publifhing fuch
ill-grounded Incoherencies: For how was it poffi-
ble, that fo confiderate and vigilant a Perfon as
Hernan Cortes, when he had upon his Back the
whole Power of the Mexican Empire, fhould once
think of parting with a Pledge in which confifted
his greateſt Security? Of what Advantage could the
Death of a Prince, who was a Friend, and fubjected,
be towards the Conqueft of a Kingdom, whofe In-
habitants were all up in Arms, and declared Ene-
mies? It is a Misfortune which generally attends all
great Actions, to have them variouſly reported;
and it is an eafy Undertaking for the Envious to in-
vent chimerical Circumftances, which, notwithſtand-
ing they are not fufficient intirely to obfcure the
Truth, leave it nevertheleſs expofed to Opinion and
Ignorance; and we find many Things in Hiftories
which have no better Foundation than the Credulity
of the Vulgar. Foreigners have given themfelves
abundance of Trouble in endeavouring to difcredit
the Conduct of Cortes in this Expedition: But the
many Proofs he has given of his good Senfe, clear
him from fo great an Abfurdity; though the Noble-
nefs of his Temper, and well-known Generofity,
ſhould not be allowed fufficient to have kept him
from fo cruel an Action. Let therefore Envy re-
main covered with Confufion; an odious Vice with-
out Pleaſure, a racking Torment while diffembled,
and a Difgrace when known; the Glory of the En-
vied, and the Infamy of the Envious.
MOTEZUMA, as we have elſewhere obferved,
was a Prince of rare Talents, and excellent natural
Endowments; of a graceful and majeſtick Prefence;
of a quick Apprehenfion, and clear Underſtanding;
and, in a Word, wanted nothing but Improvement,
and acquired Parts. His Valour advanced him to
the
140
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
the higheſt Dignities in the Empire, and gave him
the firſt Rank among his own People, before he
obtained the Crown, and afterwards among Stran-
gers gained him the Reputation of being the moſt
deferving Prince of his Time. His Genius and In-
clination were martial: He underſtood the Arts of
War; and whenever there was Occafion to take up
Arms, the Camp was his Court. He gained in
Perfon nine Field Battles. He conquered feveral
Provinces, and greatly extended the Limits of his
Empire; quitting the Splendors of the Throne for
the Applaufes of the Field, and efteeming the Ge-
neral's Staff as the fecureft Sceptre. He was natu-
rally munificent and liberal, and beftowed many
great Favours without any Manner of Oftentation,
looking on Gifts as Debts, and placing Mangnifi-
cence among the firft Duties of a Monarch. He
was a Lover of Juſtice, and watched the Admini-
ſtration of it in his Minifters with a rigid Severity.
He was temperate in his Diet, and moderate in his
Ufe of Incentives to Senfuality. But thefe Virtues,
as well of a Man, as of a King, were obfcured, or
over-balanced by greater Vices, both of the Man
and of the King: His Continence was but a more
refined Senfuality; for in his Time the Tribute of
Concubines was introduced, Beauty throughout his
whole Realm being a Slave to his Moderation in
Pleaſure, and his vicious Fancy had not the Excuſe
of Appetite. Then his Juftice degenerated to the
contrary Extreme, and was often confounded with
Cruelty; for he uſed Chaſtiſement like Revenge,
doing that with Rage, which might have been juſti-
fiable, had it been done with Reafon. His Libe-
rality occafioned greater Damage than it did Good;
for he loaded his Kingdoms with Impofitions, and
intolerable Tributes; and the abominable Fruit of
his Tyranny and Oppreffion was confumed by his
Profu-
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
141
Profuſions and Extravagance. He allowed no Me-
dium, nor admitted of any Diftinction betwixt
Slavery and Vaffalage; and placing his Policy in
oppreffing his Subjects, he was more pleaſed at the
abject Slavery and Dread in which he held them,
than at their patient Refignation to his Will. Pride
was his capital and predominant Vice. Whenever
Fortune favoured him, he attributed all to his own
Merit, having a better Opinion of himſelf than he
had of his Gods, though extremely given to the
Superftitions of his Idolatry. He was honoured,
according to them, with frequent Vifits from the
Devil, who among thoſe wretched Heathens appears
in Vifions, and converfes with fuch of them who
are arrived to a certain Degree in the Path of Perdi-
tion. He voluntarily fubjected himſelf to Cortes,
condeſcending to a Confinement of fo long a Con-
tinuance, directly contrary to all the Rules of his
natural Haughtiness and Pride. It might reafona-
bly have been doubted at that Time, what was the
real Cauſe of fuch a Subjection: But the very Ef-
fects of it have fince difcovered, that God took the
Reins into his own Hand on Purpoſe to tame that
Monſter; making his unufual Gentlenefs inftrumen-
tal to the first Introduction of the Spaniards, a Be-
ginning, from whence afterwards refulted the Con-
verfion of thofe Heathen Nations. He left feveral
Children; two of his Sons, who accompanied him
in his Confinement, were killed by the Mexicans,
when Cortes made his Retreat; he had two others,
with three Daughters, which Ladies were afterwards
converted, and married with Spaniards. But the
moft illuftrious of all his Children was Don Pedro
de Motezuma, who was alfo foon after converted to
the Catholick Religion, and had that Name given
him at his Baptiſm. He was next Heir to his
Father, his Mother being Princefs of the Province"
4
of
142
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
of Tula, and one of the Queens who refided in the
Imperial Palace with Royal Dignity; which Prin-
cefs likewife followed her Son's Example, and was
baptized by the Name of Donna Maria de Niagua
Suchil, keeping up in thofe Surnames the Nobility
of her Anceſtors. His Majefty beftowed many Fa
vours upon Don Pedro, giving him an Eftate, and
confiderable Rents in New Spain, with the Title
of Count de Motezuma, whofe legitimate Succef-
fion is ſtill preſerved in the Counts of that Title,
with the heroick Remembrance of their Original.
MOTEZUMA reigned feventeen Years. He was
the eleventh in the Number of the Emperors, and
the ſecond of the Name. To conclude, he periſh'd
in his Blindneſs amidſt ſo many Succours, as
feemed fufficient to fave him. O ever infcrutable
Permiffions of eternal Juftice! proper to affect the
Heart, but not to be comprehended by the Under-
ſtanding!
CHAP. XVI.
The Mexicans return to befiege the Spanish
Quarters. Cortes makes a Sally. Gains a
Temple, where the Enemy was lodged. De-
feats and puts them to Flight. Does confider-
able Damage to the City, with a Defign
to terrify them in order to make his Re-
treat.
DUR
URING the three Days that Motezuma lay
ill of his Wounds, the Indians attempted no-
thing of any great Confequence; notwithstanding
they had conftantly fome Bodies of Men in Sight,
and
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
143
and made fome flight Attacks, which were eaſily
repulfed. It might have been thought, that this
Intermiffion proceeded from the Senfe they had of
their Crime, or from the Dread of their Sovereign's
Indignation, whom they had offended in fo outra-
geous a Manner; had it not been afterwards known
that this faint Profecution of the War was only be-
cauſe the Populace were all in Confufion and Dif
order, without Leaders, the Nobility being all bu-
fied at the Inauguration of a new Emperor, who,
as was foon after known, was Quilavaca, King of
Iztapalapa, and fecond Elector of the Empire. This
Prince lived but a few Days; and upon Account
of his Indolence, and want of Application, the very
Memory of his Name is almoſt forgot among the
Indians of that Country.
THE Mexicans who went out with Motezuma's
Body, and were intrufted with the Propofals for an
Accommodation, did not return with an Anfwer.
This Mark of Obftinacy, at the Beginning of the
new Government, gave Caufe to apprehend evil
Confequences. Cortes was defirous of retreating with
Reputation, and had already concerted with his Of-
ficers and Soldiers that their Departure fhould be
very ſpeedy, being fully convinced, that it was ab-
folutely neceffary to recruit himſelf with freſh Forces,
in order to return with better Hopes to Mexico, the
Conqueft of which he always looked upon as a
Thing which would certainly be, and which he now
confidered as an indifpenfible Obligation on him to
profecute, fince the Death of Motezuma; out of
Reſpect and Confideration to whom he had kept his
Refolutions within more moderate Bounds than he
now thought himſelf obliged to do.
It was not long before the Indians explained what
they had been contriving during that Sufpenfion of
Hoftilities; for the next Morning after the Day on
which
144
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
which they celebrated the Funeral Obfequies of Mc-
tezuma, they renewed the War upon a better Foot-
ing, and with a greater Number of People. By
Break of Day all the Streets thereabouts were filled,
and the Towers of a great Temple garrifoned, which
was but little diſtant from the Quarters, and where
they could command Part of the Palace with their
Slings and Arrows: That was a Poft which Cortes
himſelf would have fortified, had he been Maſter of
Forces enough to divide them; but he would not be
guilty of the Error of thoſe, who in order to ward
againſt Contingencies, are wanting in what imme-
diately concerns them.
THE Afcent to the upper Court of this Temple
was by a hundred Steps, upon the Pavement whereof
fome tolerably large Towers were erected. In this
they had lodged about five hundred Men, chofen
out of the Mexican Nobility, who were fo fully bent
upon maintaining it, that they had provided them-
felves with Arms, Ammunitions, and all other Ne-
ceffaries, for many Days.
CORTES found himſelf under an unavoidable Obli-
gation to dislodge the Enemy from this command-
ing Eminence, the Advantages whereof, once known
and improved, might produce very dangerous Con-
fequences, and required a vigorous Effort towards a
ſpeedy Remedy. The better to fucceed in this At-
tempt without Hazard, he drew the greateſt Part
of his Garrison without the Wall, dividing them into
fuch Battalions as were neceffary to defend the
Avenues, and hinder the Enemy from receiving
Reinforcements. The Attack of the Temple he
committed to the Conduct of Captain Efcobar, with
his Company, and about a hundred more choice
Spaniards. The Engagement began; the Spaniards
poffeffed themſelves of the Entrances of all the
Streets, and at the fame Time Efcobar made his At-
tack,
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
145
*
tack, gaining the lower Porch, and Part of the
Stairs, without Oppofition; for the Indians fuffered
them purpoſely to advance fo far, that they might
have the Advantage of affaulting them nearer; and
when they faw their Opportunity, they lined the
Rails of the upper Porch with Men, and gave the
Charge by letting fly their Arrows and Darts with
fo much Fury, and in fuch good Order, that Efco-
bar was obliged to ftop, and to order the Fire-Arms
and Crofs-Bows to play againſt thoſe who appeared:
But it was not poffible to withstand the fecond
Charge, which was much more furious. The Mexi-
cans had prepared huge Stones, and prodigious large
Beams, which they let tumble from the Top; which
gaining Force by the Steepness of the Defcent,
forced the Spaniards to give back a firft, fecond, and
third Time: Some of the Beams came down half
burned, that they might do the greater Damage.
An odd Imitation of our Fire-Arms, and it is to
be ſuppoſed, was thought a notable Contrivance
amongſt their Engineers. But, however, the Spa-
niards were obliged to break their Ranks to avoid
thoſe rude Salutes; and when once they were put
into Confufion, the Retreat was unavoidable.
$
CORTES, who with a Troop of Horfe, was run-
ning to all Parts where they were engaging, ſaw this
Difadvantage of his People; and confulting only the
Impulſes of his Valour, he diſmounted; and having
reinforced Efcobar with fome Tlafcalans of the Body
of Reſerve, and thoſe of his own Troop, he cauſed
a Shield to be faftened to his wounded Arm, and
with Sword in Hand advanced to the Stairs, with a
Refolution fo determined, that thofe who followed
him, being animated by his generous Example,
became wholly infenfible of the Danger. He hap-
pily foon overcame the Impediments which obftruct-
ed the Affault, gained the laft Stair at the firſt At-
VOL. II.
L
tack,
146 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
tack, and preſently after, the Rails of the upper
Court, where they came to Handy-Blows with
Swords and Clubs. Thofe Mexicans were all
Nobles; and it foon appeared, by the Defence
they made, what Difference the Spur of Reputa-
tion makes among Men. They ſuffered themſelves
to be cut to Pieces rather than furrender their Arms:
Some caft themfelves headlong from the Rails,
perfuaded that a voluntary Death was by far the
moſt honourable. The Priefts, and thofe who
attended the Service of the Temple, after calling
upon the Mexicans to defend their Gods, died va-
fiantly fighting: And in a very little Time Cortes
intirely gain'd the Poft, with the Slaughter of all
thofe Mexican Nobles, without lofing one Man, or
having many wounded.
A
THE Refolution form'd by Two valiant Indians,
in the very Heat of the Engagement, and the in-
trepid Boldnefs with which they endeavoured to
execute their Deſign, were very remarkable, and
ought not to be paffed over in Silence. They had
refolved to facrifice their Lives for the Benefit of
their Country, believing that they fhould finish the
War by their Deaths; and to this Purpoſe they had
both agreed to precipitate themfelves from the
Rails, on that Side where there were no Stairs, and
to carry Cortés along with them. They ftood to-
gether watching an Opportunity, and immediately,
when they faw him near the Precipice, they flung
down their Arms, and approach'd him like De-
ferters coming to furrender; and being before him,
they bent their Knees in the Pofture of Suppliants,
when all on a fudden they feiz'd him, and us'd
their utmoſt Efforts to force him to the Precipice;
but he, not without Difficulty, broke loofe, and got
clear of them, when at the fame Inftant they threw
themſelves headlong to the Ground, and were
dafh'd
Book IV.
$47
Conquest of MEXICO.
dafh'd to Pieces. Cortes remain'd rather aſtoniſhed
than angry; he was fenfible of the imminent Danger
he had been in, by the Death of the Aggreffors;
but was not much difpleafed at their Boldness,
upon Account of the Bravery of the Attempt.
SOME Circumftances occur'd in this Action at
the Temple, which made the Reduction thereof
much eaſier than it would otherwife have been.
The Indians were confounded and terrify'd to fee
themſelves attack'd by a greater Number than ordi-
nary, and by the Spanish Captain himſelf, whom
they look'd upon as invincible. In the Defence of
the Stairs they were rather precipitate and confus'd,
than regularly diligent; and the Beams which they
caft down croſs-ways, and wherein indeed confifted
the beſt Part of their Defence, were obſerved al-
ways to fall Point foremoſt, and fo pafs'd on thro
the Affailants, without hurting any of them; a
Thing which too frequently happen'd to be look'd
upon as barely cafual: And there are fome who
relate it as one of thofe Miracles which divine Próz
vidence wrought in this Conqueft All this might
be owing to their Confufion: But it is certain, that
this one Circumftance very much facilitated the
Succeſs of that Attack; and confidering how much
is to be attributed to God alone in this. War, it
will not be very much out of the Way, for once,
to make the Wonderful and the Miraculous equi-
vocal.
CORTES immediately took Care to have con-
vey'd to the Quarters all the Provifions which the
Indians had laid up in the Store-Rooms of the
Temple; a confiderable Quantity, and a neceffary
Supply upon that Occafion. He then ordered,
that the Temple, the Towers, and fome Houſes
which were contiguous, fhould be fet on Fire and
deftroyed, that his Artillery might command all
L 2
that
148
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
}
1
that Eminence. The Management of this he com-
mitted to the Tlafcalans, who inftantly put it in
Execution; and turning his Eye towards the Part
where the rest of his People. were engag'd, he
perceiv'd that the greateſt Force of the Enemy
was in the Street of Tacuba, where the Spaniards
were warmly charged, and hard put to it in de-
fending that important Avenue; upon which he
immediately mounted his Horfe, and putting the
Reins of his Bridle over his wounded Arm, he
took a Lance in the other Hand, and haftened to
their Affiftance, ordering the reft of the Horfe to
follow him, together with Efcobar, and thofe un-
der his Command. The Cavalry pafs'd 'on before,
breaking thro' the Multitude, wounding overfet-
ing, and trampling them under Foot on every Side
without lofing one Stroke, or ever being forgetful of
their own Defence. The Action was very bloody:
For fuch of the Indians who withdrew on either
Side to avoid the Shock of the Cavalry, fell in,
already half vanquish'd, with the Infantry, who
found but little Difficulty in compleating their De-
feat. But Cortes fomewhat inconfiderately advanc'd
before the rest of his Troops, fuffering himſelf to
be hurry'd away too impetuouſly by the Fire which
animated his fearlefs Breaft; and when he began to
recollect himſelf, and to confider his Error, he
perceived that he could not retire, by Reafon that
he found a numerous Throng of the flying Enemy
bearing down upon him, owing the prefent Dan-
ger his Life was in to the Succefs of his own
Troops.
A
J
....
IN this perilous Circumftance, he refolved to
take another Street, hoping he ſhould there meet
with lefs Oppofition; and in advancing a few
Paces, he fell into a confuſed Body of Indians who
were dragging along his intimate Friend Andres de
Duero,
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
149
:
Duero, whom they had taken Prifoner by the un-
happy Stumbling of his Horfe, and whofe Life
they had fpar'd for the prefent, having deftin'd
him to the Sacrifice. Cortes intrepidly charg'd that
diforderly Convoy, and breaking thro' the fore-
moft, trampled under his Horfe's Feet all who
flood in his Way, infomuch that his Friend had
an Opportunity to difengage himſelf, from thofe
who held him, and to make Ufe of a Dagger or
Poniard they had, thro' Negligence, overlook'd
when they difarm'd him, with which he måde
Way by the Deaths of feveral of the Enemy, fo as
to recover his Lance and Horfe, when the Two
Friends joining, they paffed the Street on a full
Gallop, breaking through whole Troops of the
Enemy, till they got fafe to their own.
This Ac-
tion Cortes always celebrated looking upon it as one
of the moſt fortunate Adventures of his Life, an
Opportunity of faving his Friend fo luckily falling
in his Way at a Juncture when he was wholly du-
bious of his own Safety: But Fortune (taking the
Word in its true, proper, and Catholick Significa-
tion) was fo remarkably favourable to him in what-
foever he took in Hand, that his very Overfights
and Inadvertencies feldom or never fail'd of turning
to his Advantage.
>
}
THE Enemy was now retiring on every Side;
but it was not thought adviſable to engage any
farther, becauſe it was not poffible to follow the
Chace, without leaving the Quarters expofed. A
Signal therefore was made for the Retreat; and
notwithſtanding they returned very much fatigued
with that tedious Encounter, it was without Lofs,
or any other Damage than that of a few Soldiers
wounded; which was a Circumftance which gave
a greater Reliſh to their Repofe, the Thoughts of
their cheap and fucceſsful Victory quickly making
L 3
them
150
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
them forget the Fatigues they had undergone in the
Battle. This Day a confiderable Number of Houfes
were confum'd with Fire, and fuch a Multitude
of the Enemy loft their Lives, that it was hoped
that they would have been terrify'd from attempt-
ing any new Infults upon the Quarters. Some
affirm this Sally to have been made before the
Death of Motezuma: But it was after, according
to the Relation given by Cortes himfelf, whom we
follow without any farther Examination, this not
being a Cafe in which the exact Time of its hap-
pening can be of very great Importance. The
Succefs at the Attack of that Temple was chiefly
owing to the General's own Valour; for by his
fingle Refolution and Example he render'd fupera-
ble thoſe Difficulties which had put all the reft to a
Stand. In that Action he Twice forgot of what
Importance his Life was to the Cauſe, expoſing his
Perfon to the greateſt Dangers with much more
Courage than Confideration; an Excefs of Martial
Vigour, which notwithſtanding it was attended
with Succefs, merits rather to be admired than
commended.
THE Mexicans made fuch great Account of this
Exploit of ſtorming and deftroying the Temple,
that they painted it after their Manner; and fome
Pieces afterwards came to Light, in which the
whole Action was fully reprefented; as the attack-
ing the Stairs; the Encounter in the upper Porch ;
and laftly their Defeat, and how they abandoned
the Poft to their Enemies the Spaniards, together
with the burning that Edifice, the Towers, circum-
jacent Houfes, &c. without difguifing any mate-
rial Circumſtance; thofe Pictures being their Hifto-
ries and Chronicles, which they held in high Vene-
ration, and upon the Authority whereof they laid
a very great Strefs, deeming it a Crime to deceive
Poſterity,
י
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
151
Poſterity. But in this Particular it was very obfer-
vable, that they were not altogether free from a
malicious Vanity, and introduc'd fome additional-
Fictions of their own, with the View of enhancing
the Glory of their Nation; for they reprefented
many Spaniards lying dead, fome precipitating them-
felves, or thrown headlong down from the Eminence,
and others forely wounded, deſtroying, as may be
faid, with the Pencil thofe whom they were not
able to injure with their Weapons; and endeavour-
ing to palliate their Defeat by expofing their Lofs
in fuch Colours as might make the Advantage
their Enemies obtained over them appear like a
dear-bought Victory; a Want of Exactnefs, from
which Hiftorians are not free, amongſt whom this
Sort of Partiality, with which they relate Facts,
wrefting the Circumſtances according to the Incli-
nation which biaffes their Pens, is become a familiar
Vice; infomuch that there are few Hiftories to be
met with, wherein, upon Perufal, the Country and
Inclinations of the Author are not to be diſcovered.
Plutarch, in his Treatife of the Glory of the
Athenians, finds no fmall Parity between Hiſtory
and Painting; as being, both the One and the
Other, lively Defcriptions and Reprefentations of
Things and Actions. But this Similitude between
the Pencil and the Pen is never fo obvious, as
when the Places where the Facts were done are de-
lineated with thofe Kinds of artful Strokes which
pafs for Ornaments to the Work, and are, in
Reality, no other than the Perspectives in Painting,
and may be properly called the Distances of Truth.
CHAP.
L 4
154
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
CHA P. XVII.
The Mexicans propofe Peace; but with the
View of diftreffing the Spaniards by Want of
Provifions. Their Difingenuity is difcovered.
Cortes holds a Confultation with his Offi-
cers, and it is refolved to leave Mexico
that Night,
HE Day following the Mexicans demanded
Parley, to which Cortes conſented, not
without Hopes of coming to fome reaſonable
Terms of Accommodation. He went to hear their
Propoſals from the Wall; and ſome of the Nobles
drawing near, with few Attendants, they, on the
Part of the new Emperor, propofed, "That he,
and all his People, fhould immediately prepare
to fet out, and direct their March to the Sea
"Side, where their great Canoes (fo they called
"the Ships) were waiting for them; affuring him
That there fhould be a Ceffation from all Ho-
"ftilities for as much Time as was neceffary for
s him to make himſelf ready for his Departure.
"Adding, That if he did not inftantly determine
to come to that Refolution, he might depend
upon it, that both himſelf and all who were with
"him fhould inevitably perifh; for that they were
46
now convinced by Experience, that the Spani-
"ards were not immortal; and that, tho' the
"Death of every Spaniard fhould coſt them the
"Lives of Twenty Thouſand Men, there would
ftill remain a numerous Multitude to fing the
"conclufive Victory." Cortes anfwered, "That
"the Spaniards never pretended to be immortal,
"but valued themfelves upon being Men of
❝ more
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
153
64 more Valour and Strength than other Mortals;
"and in particular knew themſelves to be fo far
fuperior, in every Refpect, to the Mexicans,
" that without any greater Force than what he then
"had with him, he had Courage enough to un-
"dertake the total Deſtruction, not only of their
<<
66
66
City but of the whole Empire: But that being
"mov'd at the Calamities they had already fuffer'd
"thro' their own Obftinacy, he was determined to
"depart, fince the Subject of his Embaffy, and,
by Confeqnence, all the Bufinefs he had there,
was at an End by the Death of the Great Mote-
zuma, whofe Bounties and Friendship had de-
"tained him at Mexico; and that he would put
"that his Defign in Execution without the leaſt
"Delay, as foon as fome Articles, which were
"neceffary for the Difpofition of his March, fhould
"be mutually agreed upon." The Deputies gave
Signs of being well fatisfied, and in Reality they
defired no better Anſwer: But thefe Overtures of
Peace were made with perfidious Views.
THE new Emperor had called a Council of his
Minifters and Grandees to debate upon Matters re-
lating to the prafent War; and after feveral Con-
ferences, it was refolved, That, to avoid the great
Damage they received from the Spanish Arms, the
lamentable Slaughter of their People, and the Ruin
of their City, the beſt Method would be to keep
them cloſe block'd up, in order to diſtreſs them by
Famine; not that they fuppofed the Spaniards
would furrender themſelves, but in order to weaken
them, that when they were difpirited, and wanted
Strength, they might atteck them with more Ad-
vantage; having invented this new Way of redu-
cing an Enemy, till then a Novelty, and utterly un-
known amongſt their Stratagems of War. It was
refolved to make Overtures of Peace, in order to
obtain
154
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
obtain the Sufpenfion of Arms they defir'd; flat-
tering themſelves, that they might be able to pro-'
tract the Treaty with various Propofals, till the
fmall Reſerve of Provifions laid up in the Quarters'
was confum'd; to which Purpofe Orders were
given, that all poffible Care fhould be taken to
hinder the Befieged from Relief; to block up,
with Works and Bodies of Men poſted at a proper
Diſtance, all the Ways by which they might at-
tempt to make their Efcape; and to break down
the Bridge at the Entrance of the Caufey, which
led towards the Road to Vera-Cruz; thinking it no
longer any ways convenient to fuffer them to depart
the City, left, at this Juncture, when the Provinces
were little fatisfied with the prefent Government,
they might foment the Malecontents to a Rebel-
lion, or reinforce themfelves by an Army of Tlaf
calans.
}
SOME of the Affembly called to mind feveral
Perfons of great Diftinction who were Priſoners in
the Spanish Quarters, reflecting upon what they
muft fuffer, fince of Neceffity they would perifh
with Hunger, before that Calamity could affect
the Enemy: But they were all fo zealous for the
publick Cauſe, that, after fome Debates, they una-
nimously voted, that thofe Prifoners would be
happy, and diſcharge their Duty, if they facrificed
their Lives for the Benefit of their Country; and
it is not unlikely that they far'd the worfe upon
Account of Motezuma's Three Sons who were.
with them, and whofe Deaths would be no ways
unwelcome to that Affembly; the eldeft being a
hopeful young Prince, capable of wearing the
Crown, highly esteemed by the People, and the
only Perſon of whom the new Emperor had Rea-
fon to be jealous. A pitiful Weakneſs of fuch
Miniſters, to believe that they are labouring for
the
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
155
the publick Good, when they are gratifying their
own private Paſſions!
<
..
+
THEIR Only Concern was for the Chief of their
idolatrous Priefts, who was likewife in the fame.
Priſon with thofe above-mentioned; for he was
univerfally reverenced as the Second Perfon in the
Empire, and they held it an unpardonable Offence
againſt their falſe Deities to fuffer him to perifh.
To procure his Liberty they made ufe of a very
notable Piece of Policy. The fame Deputies re-
turn'd again that Evening to demand another Con-
ference, and propofed on the Part of their Sove-
reign, "That in order to prevent any Mifunder-
ſtandings which might retard the Treaty, it
"would not be improper for the Spaniards to fend
"fome one of their Mexican Prifoners to the Em-
peror, well inftructed on the Subject of the Ca-
"pitulation." This Expedient feemed reafonable
and eaſy; and the Deputies no fooner found it
admitted, but they artfully let drop, (as by Way
of friendly Advice) that none would be fo proper
to be employed as a certain ancient Prieft whom
they held confin'd; becauſe he was an intelligent
Perfon, able to explain all Points, and to remove
all Difficulties which might be ſtarted; which ſpeci-
ous and well-managed Pretext fuffic'd for the obtain-
ing what they defir'd: Not that Cortes was igno-
rant of the Artifice of the Propofal; but confider-
ing of what great Importance it was to found the
Minds of thofe People, he eſteem'd it a ſmall
Matter to part with a Prifoner who was both
troubleſome and deteftable. Soon after, the Prieſt
was difmiffed, fully inftructed by the General in
fome Demands eafy to be granted, relating to the
Commodiouſneſs of the March; intending after-
wards (in Cafe he returned) to employ him farther
in what muſt be agreed upon in Relation to the
laying
156 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
laying down Arms, Hoftages, and other Matters.
of greater Confequence: But it was to no Purpoſe
to wait for his Return, it being foon evident that
there was no fuch Defign. The Centinels difcover-
ed, that the Enemy befieged the Quarters at a
greater Diſtance than they were wont; that they
appeared more wary and circumfpect than ordinary,
diligently cafting up Trenches and other Works
to defend the Paffage of the Canals; and that they
had detach'd fome Bodies of Men to the Lake,
who were breaking down the Bridges of the prin-
cipal Caufey, and cutting off all Communication
with the Road which leads to Tlafcala; a Proceed-
ing which fully difcover'd the Artifice of their
Defigns.
THIS Intelligence Cortes received with fome Con-
cern; but inured to overcome greater Difficulties,
he re-affumed his natural Calmnefs; and upon his
firſt Reflections, which always pointed directly at
the Remedy, he ordered a Bridge of Beams and
Planks to be made, wherewith to cover the Open-
ing of the Caufey, capable of bearing the Weight
of the Artillery, and fo contrived that it might,
without much Difficulty, be carryed by Forty Men.
And without lofing more Time than what was ne-
ceffary for the compleating of this Work, he af-
fembled his Captains to confult with them, and to
take their Opinion concerning the Retreat, whether
it fhould be made by Day or by Night. In the
propofing of this Point he carried himſelf with
an intire Indifferency, either becauſe he had not
yet come to any Refolution, or becauſe he did
not care to charge himſelf with the Succefs. Their
Opinions were divided, fome being for retreating
by Night, others by Day, and both Parties had
their Reaſons pro & contra.
THOSE
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
157
cc
་
THOSE who were of the firft of thefe Opinions
faid, "That Valour and Prudence not being incon-
"fiftent with each other, they ought to chuſe the
"Way which was moft fecure; That the Mexicans,
"whether out of Cuftom, or Superftition, were
"always wont to lay afide their Arms on the
Night's Approach; and it was to be fuppofed
"that they would be now lefs vigilant than ordi-
nary upon Account of the Négociation for Peace,
"which they imagined was carrying on and accepted
" on our Side: And if their Intention was to di-
"ſturb them in their March, as the Preparations
they were making feem'd to promife, it was to
" be confidered how much they ought to dread an
Engagement in the very Paffage of the Lake,
"where they could neither draw up their Ranks,
હ nor make Ufe of the Cavalry, their Flanks all
"the while expoſed to the Enemies Boats, obliged
to force their Way in the Front, and defend
"themſelves in the Rear." The others, on the
66
<c
66
66
*
contrary, maintained, "That it was by no
"Means practicable to begin a March by Night,
"with Baggage and Artillery, by an uncertain
"Road, raiſed upon the Waters, when the Seaſon
"itfelf, cloudy and rainy as it then was, augmented
"the Darknefs, and increaſed the Abfurdity of fo
ill-judged a Refolution; That the Attempt of
moving an Army, with all its Impediments, and
"with the Trouble of laying Bridges to make the
(C
..
(c
Paffage free, was not an Undertaking to be ef-
"fected without fome Detention, and much Noiſe;
"neither in War were the merry Stories of an
"Enemy's Negligence to be depended upon, it
"being what one may indeed fometimes reap an
66
Advantage from, but ought never to be taken
"for granted. That the fuppofed Cuſtom of the
" Mexicans
158
The HISTORY of the Book IV,
<<
Mexicans never being in Arms by Night, (be-
"fides that it had been broken in upon, when they
"fet Fire to the Quarters, and poffeffed themſelves
"of the Temple) was not a fufficient Motive to be-
"lieve that they had wholly abandoned the only
"Opportunity they ought to fecure: That it would
"be far lefs hazardous to march out at a Time
"when they might fee the Dangers they had to
encounter, than to make a Retreat with the Ap-
pearances of a Flight, and by ſo doing to come
"with little Credit, to feek the Protection of their
"Confederates, who perhaps might defpife their
Friendſhip, when they had once loft the Opinion
they had conceived of their Valour; or at leaſt
"it would be but very indifferent Policy to ftand
"in Need of Friends, and to apply to them after
"they had loft their Reputation.
t
66
66
THE Propofal of making the Retreat by Night
had moft Votes, and Cortes gave Way to the Majo-
rity; probably ſuffering himſelf to be prevailed
with for fome referved and private Reaſon. They
all agreed to haften the March without farther De-
lay, and in Conclufion refolved that it fhould be
put in Execution that very Night, in order to avoid
giving the Enemy Time to contrive new Meaſures
for obftructing the Road of the Caufey with any
Works or Trenches, fuch as they uſed in the Paffage
of their Canals. The building of the before-men-
tioned portable Bridge went on vigorously; and not-
withſtanding it may be believed, that Cortes intended
to have made two others, there being three Open-
ings in the Caufey, they had not fufficient Time for
the Work, nor was it thought abfolutely neceffary,
as fuppofing, that they could remove the Bridge
from one Opening to another, when the Army had
paffed the firft: Suppofitions in which Men are
ordinarily
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO,
-159
-ordinarily too late made fenfible of the Difference
there is between Speculation and Practice.
A
IT is not to be denied, but that Cortes, in the
Controverſy there was among his Officers upon this
Occafion, deported himſelf with a more indifferent
- Neutrality, and much lefs Activity than he was ac-
cuftomed to do. It is believed, that he came to
the Council fomewhat inclined to the Opinion which
prevailed, having given Ear to the vain Frediction
of an Aftrologer, who, as he was going in, advifed
him in myſterious Terms to march away that very
Night; for that he ſhould loſe the greateſt Part of
his Army, if he ſuffered a certain favourable Con-
ftellation to pafs, which was very near terminating
in another Afpect, unfortunate. This Diviner was
a Spaniard, a private Centinel, and called-Botello,
chiefly known in the Army by the Name of the Ne-
cromancer, to which Appellation he anfwered with-
out the leaft Concern; efteeming it as an Allowing
of his Abilities. He was an ignorant Fellow with-
out Learning or Principles, who mightily valued
himſelf upon penetrating into future Events; but he
was neither fo foolishly ignorant as they who really
make a Study of thofe diabolical Arts, and attain
to a Perfection in them, nor fo innocent and blame-
lefs as not to make Ufe of fome Characters, Num-
bers, or Words, fuch as contain within them an
- abominable Stipulation with the firft Impoftor. Cortes
generally laugh'd at his Prognofticks, defpifing the
Man for the Sake of his Profeffion; and even then
heard him with the like Contempt; but he fell into
the Fault of liftening to him (which was little lefs
than to confult him); and when he ſhould have had
Recourſe to his own Prudence, in order to have
chofen the moft proper Method of Proceeding, he
was influenced by thofe very Prognoftications which
he had fo much defpifed. A pernicious Sort of
People,
•
160
Book IV.
The HISTORY of the
People, and dangerous Obfervations, which confi-
derate Perfons ought always to avoid and abhor,
and more particularly thofe who command; for at
the fame Time that they are fenfible of the Vanity
thereof, they fuffer their Minds to be prepoffeffed
with fomething which inclines them either to Fear
or Security; and when the Occafion comes for re-
folving, the Whimfies of the Imagination revolt
againſt the Underſtanding, and always, in fome
Degree prejudice Reafon.
{
1
+
CHA P. XVIII.
At the
The Spaniards march out privately.
Entrance of the Caufey are discovered by the
Indians, who attack them with their whole
Power both by Land and Water: They get
clear at laft with great Difficulty, and con-
fiderable Lofs, and reach the Town of Tacuba.
THE Mancen as his
HE very fame Evening the General diſpatch'd
another Mexican as his Ambaſſador to the City,
with Pretence of continuing the Treaty begun by
the before-mentioned Prieft: This Feint was thought
neceffary to amuſe the Enemy, giving them to un-
derſtand the Sincerity of the Spaniards in the Nego-
tiation, and that all Things ſhould be got ready for
their Departure within eight Days at fartheft. Cortes
in the mean while was diligently difpofing Matters
to begin the March, the Shortnefs of the Time
making every Moment precious.
HE diftributed his Orders, and gave his Captains.
the neceſſary Inſtructions, providing againſt all Ac-
cidents which might happen upon the March with
-
all
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
ibi
all imaginable Precaution. He formed his Van-
Guard of two hundred Spanish Soldiers, with the
choiceft of the Tlaſcalans, and about twenty Horſe,
under the Conduct of the Captains Gonzalo de San-
doval, Francifco de Azebedo, Diego de Ordaz, Fran-
cifco de Lugo, and Andres de Tapia. He gave the
Command of the Rear-Guard, with a greater Number
both of Horſe and Foot, to Pedro de Alvarado, Juan
Velasquez de Leon, and other Captains of thoſe who
came with Narvaez. In the main Body or Centre,
he placed the Prifoners, Artillery, and Baggage with
the reft of his Army, referving with himſelf, to be
employed as Neceffity fhould require, one hundred
choice Men, with the Captains Alonzo Davila, Chri-
ftoval de Olid, and Bernardino Vafquez de Tapia.
Things being thus difpofed, he made a fhort Speech
to his Soldiers, laying before them the Diffiulties
and Dangers of the Undertaking: Upon which he
inlarged a little the more, becauſe it was a current
Opinion among them, that the Mexicans never en-
gaged by Night, and it was neceffary to infpire them
with Diftruft, left they ſhould fall into an over-great
Security, a dangerous flattering Enemy in all Mili-
tary Actions, inclining the Mind to a certain Care-
lefsnefs, which feldom fails of producing fatal Con-
fequences; whereas a prudent Fear is always wont
to prevent a ſhameful one.
He next caufed all the Gold and Silver, Jewels
and precious Sones, which were in the Cuftody of
Chriftoval de Guzman, Groom of his Chamber, to
be brought into his Apartment; and out of it he
ſeparated the Fifth belonging to the King, in thoſe
Things which were most valuable, and leaft bulky,
of which he made a formal Delivery to thofe Of-
ficers who had Care of the Accompts and Provifions
of the Army; giving a Mare of his own, and fome
wounded Horfes for the Carriage thereof, in order
VOL. II.
M
to
162 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
to fpare the Indians who might be in other Reſpects
ferviceable upon that Occafion. The Remainder,
according to what Computation could be made,
amounted to the Value of upwards of feven hundred
thoufand Pieces of Eight; all which Wealth he left
with little or no Reluctancy, proteſting publickly,
That it was no Time to embarafs themſelves with
"it; and that it would be a Shame to employ thoſe
"Hands fo unworthily, which ought to be left free
for the Defence of Life and Reputation." But
finding the Soldiers not fo well contented with this
inexcufable Lofs, he added, as he was going away,
"That they ought not to look upon their Retreat
"from thence as an intire abandoning of that ac-
st
quired Treaſure, and their main Deſign, but as a
"neceffary and indifpenfable Difpofition in order to
return to that Enterprize with a greater Force,
"after the fame Manner as a Man draws back his
"Arm in order to give the greater Blow." And
withal gave them to underſtand, that he ſhould not
think it a mighty Crime in them to take away as
much of that Wealth as they conveniently could,
which was the very fame Thing in Effect, as to leave
Moderation to the Difcretion of Avarice: And tho
the greateſt Part of them (notwithſtanding they faw
this abandoned Treaſure in their Power) took Care
to go light and ready for whatever might offer, there
were fome, and particularly of thoſe who came with
Narvaez, who gave themfelves up to Pillage, with-
out the leaft Confideration, finding Fault with the
Narrowness of their Knapfacks, and the fmall Depth
of their Pockets, loading their Shoulders beyond
what they were well able to bear. A Permiffion in
which all the Military Care and Circumfpection of
Cortes feemed to be afleep: For he could not poffibly
be ignorant, that rich Booty to a Soldier is not only
an outward Embarafment when there is Occafion to
engage,
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
163
4
engage, but likewiſe and Obftruction to his Cou-
rage: It being much eaſier for thoſe who have not
a very great Regard for their Duty, to part with
their Honour than with their Prize.
We have no other Excufe to make for him, but
that he was perfuaded that he ſhould be able to ex-
ecute his March without meeting with any Oppo-
fition; and if this Security, which does not feem to
have been his natural Difpofition, had any Relation
to the Prediction of the Aftrologer, it must not be
looked upon as a new Indifcretion, but as a fecond
Inconvenience attending the firft Fault of hearken-
ing to him.
Ir was little lefs than Midnight when they
marched out of their Quarters, without the Centi-
nels or advanced Guards finding any Thing to give
them the leaft Sufpicion: And notwithſtanding both
the Wetnefs of the Weather and Darknefs of the
Night favoured their Intention of marching cauti-
ouſly, and freed them from any Jealoufy of the
Enemy's continuing abroad in their Works, they
fo punctually obferved Silence and Circumfpection,
that Fear itſelf could not have wrought what Obe-
dience and Difcipline did in thofe Soldiers. The
portable Bridge went with the Van-Guard, and thofe
who had the Charge of it, laid it over the firft Ca-
nal; but the Weight of the Horſe and the Artillery
made it ſtick fo faft in the Stones which fupported
it, that they were by no Means able to remove it
to the other Canals, as they had defigned; nor had
they indeed an Opportunity to do it; for before the
Army had all pafs'd the firſt Breach of the Caufey,
they were obliged to take to their Arms with the
greateſt Precipitation, being affaulted on every
Side, when they leaft of all fufpected any fuch
Matter.
M 2
THE
164
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
THE Addrefs with which thofe Barbarians dif-
poſed their Enterprize, was very worthy of Admi-
ration. They obferved with a diffembled Vigilance
the Motions of their Enemies. They affembled
and diftributed without Noife the unmanageable
Multitude of their Troops. They took Advantage
of the Silence and Darkness of the Night to com-
paſs their Intention of drawing near without being
diſcovered. They covered the whole Length of
the Lake on each Side of the Caufey with arm'd
Cances; beginning the Attack with fo little Confu-
fion, and fuch good Order, that the Spaniards
heard their Shouts, and the warlike Sound of
their Shells, almoft at the fame Time that they felt
the Sharpneſs of their Arrows.
CORTES and his whole Army had undoubtedly
been deftroy'd, if the Indians had obferv'd the fame
good Order in the Heat of the Engagement, as
they did in the Beginning of the Attack: But to
them Moderation and Difcipline were a Conftraint,
and when once they began to be enrag'd, Obedience
ceas'd, and Cuſtom prevail'd; they charg'd in
Heaps upon that Part where they perceived the
Bulk of the Army; preffing upon each other after
fuch a Manner, that their Canoes were broke to
Pieces by ftriking upon the Caufey; and the Vio-
lence of thoſe who were furiously endeavouring to
advance, proved a fecond Danger to the foremoſt.
The Spaniards made terrible Deſtruction among
that naked and diſorderly Multitude; but they had
not Strength fufficient to hold out fuch inceffant
Exercife of their Swords and Spears: Nor was it
long before they found themfelves likewife attack'd
in Front, and were obliged to turn their Faces
towards that Part where the Danger grew moft
preffing; for the Indians who were at a Diſtance,
or who could not bear the Tediouſneſs of the Oars,
flung
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
165
flung themfelves into the Water, and by the Help
of their Arms, and natural Agility, climb'd up
upon the Caufey in fuch Numbers, that they were
not able to make ufe of their Weapons; and this
new Affault proved a Relief to the Spaniards; for
the Mexicans were eafily routed, and all of them
in a Manner being killed, their Bodies were fuf-
ficient to fill up the Canal, with no other Trou-
ble than the flinging them in, where they ferved
to fupply the Want of a Bridge for the Army to
paſs over.
After this Manner fome of our Writers
relate it; tho' others fay, That they luckily found
a Beam of fufficient Breadth, which the Enemy
had left whole in the fecond Bridge, on which the
Soldiers pafs'd over in Files, guiding the Horfes
thro' the Water by the Bridles. After what Man-
ner foever it happened, (for it is not eafy to recon-
cile thefe different Accounts, nor indeed do all of
them deſerve Reflection) they overcame the Diffi-
culty of this Pafs by their indefatigable Induſtry, or
good Fortune, and the Vanguard profecuted their
March without being much retarded by the laft
Canal; for the Water being fhallower by the Neigh-
bourhood of the Shore, they could eafily wade
thro' the Remainder of the Lake; efteeming it as
a particular Piece of good Fortune, that the
Enemy, out of fuch Multitudes of People as they
had to ſpare, had not ſent any Troops to the other
Side; for that would have occafioned a new, and
far more dangerous Difpute for thofe who were
making to the Shore wounded, and half fpent with
the Water above their Middle: But this came not
within the Compafs of their Confideration, neither,
probably, did they difcover the Army's March till
it was to late; or, what may be moft likely, their
Confufion and Diſorder was fo great, that they
could
M 3
166
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
{
could not think of all the Meaſures neceffary to ob-
ftruct it.
CORTES pafs'd with the firft Body of his People,
and ordering Juan de Xaramillo to take Care to
form the Men as faſt as they arrived, he returned
without Delay to the Caufey, with the Captains
Gonzalo de Sondoval, Chriftoval de Olid, Alonfo Da-
vila, Francifco de Morla, and Gonzalo Dominguez.
He entered into the Engagement, animating thoſe
who fought, as well by his Prefence as by his
Example: He reinforced his Troop with as many
Soldiers as he thought neceffary to ſtop the Enemy,
on both Sides of the Caufey, and ordered the reft
to file off from the Centre, caufing the Artillery
to be thrown into the Water to free the Paffage,
and facilitate the March. His Valour did much in
this Difpute; but his Mind fuffered much more, when
in the midſt of this frightful Obfcurity he heard the
Voices of Spaniards calling upon God in the laſt
Moments of their Life, whofe Lamentations con-
fufedly mix'd with the Shouts and Threats of the
Indians, caus'd another terrible Conflict in his Breaft
between the Impulfes of Anger and the Motions of
Pity and Compaffion.
THESE melancholy Sounds came from a Part of
the City, where it was wholly impracticable to give
any Relief, by Reafon the Enemy, who were
rowing up and down upon the Lake, had taken
Care to deſtroy the portable Bridge, before the
Rear-guard had all pafs'd; and there it was the
Spaniards fuffered moft: For the chief Body of the
Mexicans clos'd with them, obliging them to retreat
to the Caufey, cutting in Pieces all the hinder-moſt
and leaft circumfpect, who, for the moſt Part,
were of the Number of thoſe who were wanting in
their Duty, and had evaded entering into the Fight
for the fake of the Gold which they had brought
from
Book IV.
167
Conquest of MEXICO.
from the Quarters. Thefe died ignominiouſly,
hugging and embracing the miferable Load which
made them Cowards in the Engagement, and tardy
in their Flight, not only lofing their own worthlefs
Lives, but blemiſhing the Character of their Na-
tion, and bringing an unjuft Reflection upon the
whole Expedition; for they paffed in the Account
of the Dead, as Men who had fold their Lives at
a dearer Rate, whereas in Equity and Reaſon Cow-
ards ought not to be counted in the Number of the
Conquer'd.
CORTES at laft retir'd with all he could pick up
of the Rear-guard, and as he was penetrating thro'
the ſecond Space of the Caufey, with little or no
Oppofition, he was joined by Pedro de Alvarado,
who owed his Life to little leſs than a Miracle of
Activity and Reſolution: For having found himſelf
cloſely beſet on every Side, his Horfe killed under
him, and one of the Canals ftill before him in his
Way, he fix'd his Lance, or Spear, in the Bottom of
the Lake, and forcibly raifing his Body by a notable
Spring of his Feet, poizing and fupporting his
Weight in the Air by the Strength of his Arms,
with a defperate Leap caft himſelf on the other
Side: A furprizingly bold Action, and which has
fince been looked upon as fomething furpaffing
Nature; and Alvarado himſelf, when he afterwards
reflected upon the enormous Diſtance, and the Suc-
cefs he had met with in the Attempt, eafily became
fenfible of the Diſproportion there was between the
Fact itſelf and the Feasibility of it. Bernal Diaz
del Caftillo, in his Hiftory, feems to doubt of the
Truth of this unaccountable Leap, making no
Scruple of treating it as a mere Fiction, and indeed
actually contradicts the whole, tho' he does not
exprefs himſelf after a very regular Manner; for at
first he flightly paffes over this Circumſtance, and
M 4
anon
༣
168 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
anon returns to it again, with the Diffidence of
one who is afraid of being in the wrong, or repents
his having given into the Belief of it with too much
Facility. But in our Opinion it is lefs eafy to be-
lieve that Alvarado fhould feign fuch a ſtrange
Story, and father upon himſelf an Action which,
if ever fo much taken for granted, would at the
beſt only give an Opinion of his Agility, but could
add no Manner of Reputation to his Valour. We
relate no more than what has been credited and
affirm'd by Writers, and authoriz'd by Tradition,
that Place being ftill known under the Denomina-
tain of Alvarado's Leap; nor do we find any great
Difficulty in believing, upon this Occafion, as in
feveral others, that Truth may be confiftent with
Improbability: And confidering the Extremity to
which Pedro de Alvarado then found himſelf re-
duced, the Thing appears lefs wonderful, as being
not fo much an Action abfolutely beyond the
Power of a Man to perform, as an extraordinary
Effort of a Perfon driven to the laft Neceffity.
CHA P. XIX.
Cortes marches the Road towards Tlafcala,
Some Troops from the circumjacent Towns
follow the Army at a Distance, till being
join'd by the Mexicans, who likewife purfue
him, they attack his Rear, and oblige him to
take Refuge in a Temple.
HE Army gain'd the firm Land with the firſt
Appearance of the Day, and halted near Ta-
cuba, not without fome Jealoufy of that Town,
which
11
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
169
which was very populous, and in the Intereft of
the Mexicans; but they took Care not immediately
to quit the Neighbourhood of the Lake, that they
might give Time to thofe who could efcape from
the Battle to fave themſelves: Nor was that Pre-
caution unneceffary; for feveral Spaniards and Tlaf-
calans found the Advantage of that Stop, who by
their Valour and good Management got off by
fwimming to the Shore, where they hid themfelves
in the Fields of Maiz till the Morning.
THESE gave the General an Account that the laſt
Divifion of the Rear-guard was intirely cut off;
and Cortes having drawn up his Troops, found that
he had loft about two Hundred Spaniards, more
than one Thouſand Tlafcalans, forty-fix Horſes,
and all the Mexican Priſoners, which laft, not being
able to make themſelves known in the Confufion
and Obfcurity of the Night, were treated as Ene-
mies by thofe of their own Nation. The Spaniards
were fatigued and difcouraged, their Numbers di-
minifhed, and the Artillery all loft, expecting every
Moment to be attack'd, and the Place of their Re-
treat far off; and among fo many Motives of
Concern, their Misfortune received a greater Ad-
dition by the Lofs of fome principal Captains, in
which Number thoſe of the greateſt Note were,
Amador de Larez, Francifco de Morla, and Francifco
de Salcedo, who loft their Lives, difcharging their
Duties with extraordinary Valour. Juan Velasquez
de Leon, who retreated in the very laft of the Rear-
guard, likewife loft his Life, opprefs'd by Multi-
tudes, fhewing an invincible Courage even to the
lateſt Gafp: A Lofs which was generally lament-
ed; for all Men refpected him as the Second Per-
fon in the Army. He was an Officer of very great
Ufe, as well for his Advice as for his Readineſs to
execute; fomewhat referved in this Manner, but
fincere
!
170
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
fincere and upright; grave without being difagree-
able or formal; on all Occafions a ftrict Lover of
Truth, and had a Mind fo noble and generous, that
he followed Cortes, and forfook his Kinfman Diego
Velasquez, merely becauſe he looked upon the Pro-
ceedings of the one too raſh and unreaſonable, and
found thofe of the other to be juft and honourable.
He died with the Character of a Perfon very neceffary
in this Conqueft, was often remembered, and uni-
verfally regretted.
CORTES fat down upon a Stone to reſt himſelf
a little, while his Captains were putting the Troops
in Order, and difpofing them to profecute their
March. He found himſelf fo oppreffed with in-
ward Concern, that he never more than now ſtood
in Need of all his Magnanimity and Reſolution to
temper his Grief, and fuit it to the prefent Poſture
of Affairs. He fummoned up all his Conftancy to
his Affiſtance, begging a Truce of his melancholy
Reflections: But at the fame Time that he gave
his Orders, animated his People, and exerted him-
felf with his wonted Alacrity, and peculiar Viva-
city, his Eyes let fall Tears, which he was not
able to conceal from thofe who were about him;
a manly Weakneſs, which, as it expreſs'd a ten-
der Concern for the common Caufe, could not caſt
any manner of Blemish upon his Courage. It
muft certainly have been a Spectacle worthy of
Admiration, to behold that renowned Leader fo
fenfibly touch'd, without the leaft Abatement of
his undaunted Refolution, and his Countenance all
bathed in Tears without lofing any Part of the Air
of a Conqueror.
HE inquired for the Aftrologer, whether in order
to reprimand him for the Part he had in haftening
the March, or to divert his Melancholy by rallying
him upon his Science; but he was told that he was
killed
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
171
killed in the firſt Affault of the Caufey, that Wretch
having met the Fate common to thoſe of his Pro-
feffion. We ſpeak not of thofe who really under-
ftand the Foundation of that Art, making Ufe of
the fame by the Rules of Reaſon; but of thoſe who
take upon them the Character of judicial Aſtrolo-
gers or Diviners: A Set of Men, who for the Ge-
nerality live wretchedly, and die miferably; ever
folicitous about other People's Happinefs, and al-
ways unhappy themſelves; infomuch that one of
the Claffick Authors takes upon him to fay, That
the very Inclination to a vain Obfervation of the Stars,
is a fufficient Argument to induce one to believe, that
the Perfon who has that Curiofity was born under an
evil Planet.
BUT in the Midft of thefe Misfortunes, it was
no fmall Confolation to Hernan Cortes, and the
whole Army, that Donna Marina and Geronimo de
Aguilar had found Means to eſcape from the Battle,
in the terrible Confuſion of that Night, they being
the principal Inftruments of the Conqueft, and no
lefs neceffary at this Time than they had been be-
fore; for without them it was altogether impoffible
to ftir up or engage the Friendſhip of the Nations
they were going to feek. Nor was it lefs happy,
that the Mexicans did not follow the Chace; for
they gave Time to the Spaniards to breathe after
their Fatigue, and to march in better Order, and
with lefs Hafte, mounting the diſabled Men on the
Cruppers of the Horfes. This Stop of the Mexi-
cans proceeded from an unthought-of Accident,
which may be attributed to the Providence of God.
The Sons of Motezuma, who had attended their
Father during his Continuance in the Quarters, to-
gether with all the Mexican Priſoners who were left
under Convoy with the Baggage, were unfortu-
nately killed by the Enemy; and in the Morning
the
172
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
the Indians, allured by the Spoils of the Dead, be-
held, pearced thro' with their own Arrows, the
Bodies of thofe unhappy Princes, whom they re-
verenced with that fame kind of Adoration they
once did their deceaſed Father. They ftood
amaz'd, ftupified, and confounded at the Sight,
without daring to pronounce the Caufe of their
Aftoniſhment. Thoſe who firft faw it drew back,
that others might approach, and all in general were
mute, expreffing their Surprize by Silence. How-
ever, it was not long before the News was carried
thro' the Troops, and they were all feized with
Fear and Amazement; the Uſe of their Senfes and
Faculties being for fome time fufpended, with that
kind of fudden Terror, which the Ancients called
Panick Fear. The Mexican Chiefs refolved to fend
an Account of this to the new Emperor; and he,
who was forced to affect a Concern out of Com-
pliance with thoſe whofe Grief was unfeigned,
commanded the Army to halt; beginning the
Ceremony of the Funeral Outcries and Lamenta-
tions which uſed to precede the Obfequies, whilſt
the Prieſts, followed by all who had remained in
the City, came to receive the Royal Bodies, in
order to conduct them to the Burying-place of
their Anceſtors. It was to the Death of thofe
Princes that the Spaniards were indebted for the
firſt Recovery from their Confuſion, and that fea-
fonable Refpite: But they lamented their untimely
Fate as one of the greateſt Loffes that could have
befallen them; and particularly Cortes, who, in
thoſe Princes, loved and refpected the Memory of
their Father, and had founded Part of his Hopes
in the Right of the Elder.
CORTES in the mean while directed his March
towards Tlaſcala, with Guides of that Nation, his
Army continually in Battle Array, as not being
without
Book IV.
Conquest of MEXICO.
173
without Sufpicion of fome Defign in the Enemy's
Delay and upon fuch Occafions Diffidence and
Fear is oftner attended with Succefs than is a too
confident Security.
It was not long before fome Bands of arm'd
Indians appeared, who followed the Army, with-
out approaching within Shot. Theſe were the In-
habitants of Tacuba, Eſcapuzalco, and Tenecuya,
whom the Mexicans had fummoned out to obſerve
the Spaniards on the March, till fuch time as they
had diſcharged themſelves of their Duty towards
the Sons of Motezuma. A politick Contrivance in
thoſe barbarous People! However, theſe were but
a fmall Annoyance to the Spaniards upon the
Road; for they always kept at a Diſtance: So
that they only offended with their fcurrilous Lan-
guage and Shouts: But they continued this Kind
of Harmleſs Hoftility, till the whole Multitude of
the Mexicans came up; at which Time they all
inftantly united, and advancing with their cu-
ſtomary Swiftneſs, made fo brifk and fo refolute
an Attack upon the Army, that they were all ob-
liged to face about to repulfe them.
CORTES extended his Front, where he poſted his
Fire-Arms and Crofs-Bows, being obliged to en-
gage in the open Field, without having any Place
of Security to retire to. As many of the Indians
as had Courage enough to venture near, died,
without any Difcouragement to the reft. The
Horfe fallied out to fkirmish, and made a very
great Slaughter: But the Number of the Enemy
continually increaſed, and their Arrows and Slings
did confiderable Damage from afar. The Spaniards
were tired and without Hopes of repulfing that
enormous Multitude; and now their Valour began
to flacken for Want of Strength, when Cortes, who
behaved himſelf in the Battle like a Soldier, with-
out
174
The HISTORY of the. Book IV.
out forgetting the Duty of a General, obſerved a
certain rifing Ground at no great Diſtance from
thence, which commanded the whole circumjacent
Plain. Upon the Top of that Eminence was a
towered Building, which appeared like a Fortreſs,
or at leaſt the Exigence in which he found himſelf,
made him fancy it as fuch. He refolved to poffefs
himſelf of this Poft for the Advantage of its Situa-
tion; and detaching a Party of Men to reconnoitre
it, he moved with the Army in order to gain it,
which he did not find could be effected without
Difficulty, being obliged to face the Enemy all the
while afcending the Hill, and to place fome Com-
panies of Harquebufiers to defend the Avenues;
but he happily compafs'd his Defign, poffeffing
himſelf of the Tower without Refiftance, and in
that found all the Advantages, which at that Time
his Imagination could frame.
It was a Temple dedicated to the Sylvan Deities,
to which thoſe Barbarians recommended the Fer-
tility of their Harveſts. The Prieſts and Servants
who attended the abominable Worſhip of that
Place, had quitted it, flying from the Neighbour-
hood of War, as People of a different Profeffion.
The Court of this Temple was fufficiently capaci-
ous, encompaffed with a Wall, after their Manner
of building, which, together with the Towers
wherewith it was flanked, rendered it tolerably de-
fenfible. Under the Shelter of thefe Works, which
was looked upon as an impregnable Fortreſs, the
Spaniards began to breathe. They lifted up their
Eyes and Hearts towards Heaven, receiving this
timely Relief from the imminent Perils to which
they had been expoſed, as an immediate Succour
from Divine Providence: Nor did this pious Re-
Alection ceaſe to remain with them even after the
Danger was all over; for in Memory of the fignal
Service
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
175
Service that Temple did them, in affording them
Shelter in an Exigence wherein they were near be-
ing reduced to the laſt Extremity, they erected
afterwards in that very Place a Hermitage, with
the Invocation of the Bleſſed Virgin, which is known
to this Day by the Name of Neuftra Sennora de los
Remedios, where People daily find Relief in their
Neceffities; and where, in the Devotion of the
Faithful, who are Inhabitants of thoſe Parts, may
be ſeen the Acknowledgment and grateful Remem-
brance they retain of fo great a Benefit.
THE Enemy did not dare to mount the Hill, nor
did they give any Signs of their intending an Af
fault: But they approached within Mufket Shot,
begirting the Eminence on all Parts, and made
fome Advances to fhoot their Arrows, wounding,
for the moſt Part, the Air, and fometimes the
Walls, as if it were to chaftize them for oppofing
their Vengeance. In the mean Time nothing was to
be heard but barbarous Shouts and Menaces, where-
by they endeavoured to conceal the Defects of their
Valour, and which ferved only to diſcover their
Weakneſs. They were, with little Trouble, kept
off till the Evening began to approach, at which
Time they all retired, and took the Road towards
Mexico; whether it was to comply with the Obfer-
vation of their Cuſtom, of retiring with the Sun,
or that they found themſelves tired with having
been in a Manner continually engaged from Mid-
night till then. It was difcovered from the Top
of the Towers, that they halted in the Middle of
the Plain, and dividing into feveral Bodies, endea-
voured to conceal themfelves; as if they had not
given fufficient Evidence of their Intention, and
publiſhed, by the Manner of their Retreat, that
they left the Difpute in Sufpence.
CORTES
176
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
CORTES difpofed every Thing in his Quarters
with all the Care and Circumfpection that a Night
fo unfecure, and a Poft fo threatened, obliged him.
He ordered the Guards and Centinels to be fooner
relieved than ordinary, that all might have their
Share of Reft. They made fome Fires, as well
becauſe the Coldnefs of the Seafon required this Re-
lief, as to confume the Arrows of the Mexicans,
thereby to deprive the Enemy of that Ammuni-
tion.
HE
He gave a ſmall Refreſhment to the People of
the Provifions found in the Temple, and what the
Indians had faved with the Baggage. Particular
Care was taken of the Cure of the Wounded, which
was attended with no fmall Difficulties in a Place
where all Neceffaries were wanting; but they ap-
plied fuch Remedies as the Place afforded, and
which in fome Meaſure fupplied the Want of more
proper Medicines, by affwaging their Pain, and the
Horſe-Cloths ferved for Lint and Bandage.
CORTES took Care of all, but ftill without for-
getting the Danger to which he lay expofed; and
before he would retire to take the leaſt Repoſe, he
affembled his Officers to confult with them what
was to be done in this Juncture. He had already
formed his Refolution, but he always evaded de-
ciding in hazardous Matters, and he was a great
Maſter at bringing People over to what was reaſon-
able, without fhewing his own Opinion, or making
Ufe of his Authority. He propofed different Me-
thods which might be taken, with the ſeveral In-
conveniences attending them, leaving them to judge
which Expedient was moft advifeable. He began
by intimating, "That fuch Difficulties as thofe in
"which they had been engaged all that Evening,
were not to be overcome a fecond Time; neither
"could they ever again, without apparent Raſhneſs,
" undertake
cr
Book IV. Conquest of MexicoCO.
CC
. 177
"undertake a March, with the Oppofition of ar
"Army fo fuperior to them in Number, and un-
"der the Neceffity of fighting and retiring at the
"fame Time: That to avoid being again forced
"to a Refolution fo dangerous, and accompanied
"with fo many Inconveniencies, he had fome
"Thoughts of attacking the Enemy in their Lodg-
"ment under Favour of the Night; but he was
"of Opinion, that it would be but a fruitlefs La-
bour, fince at the beft, they ſhould only oblige
"the Multitude to difperfe for the prefent, who
"would not fail to join again, from which Me-
"thod of theirs had proceeded the Tedioufnefs of
"that War: That he had thought afterwards of
maintaining the Poft they were in, till fuch Time
as the Mexicans fhould be tired with keeping the
"Field; but that the Want of Provifions, which
they already fuffered, likewife rendered that Me-
"thod impracticable." And lastly he told them,
(and this was what he had determined upon) "That
"he had been thinking whether or no it would
66
6c
CC
66
not be the beſt Way to march that fame Night,
"and get two or three Leagues from thence by
"Morning; that the Enemy, according to their
"Cuſtom, not moving till Sun-rifing, they fhould
"have the Advantage of gaining Ground without
CC
..
any farther Trouble; and in cafe the Mexicans
"ſhould refolve to follow the Purfuit, they would
66 not be able to overtake them before they had
"tired themſelves, and it would be eaſier to conti-
nue the Retreat with a lefs vigorous Oppofitiona
"But confidering that the Troops were in fo bad
"a Condition, wearied and near ſpent, it would be
a Piece of unreaſonable Inhumanity to put them
"without new Caufe, upon the Fatigue of an un-
"feaſonable March, in a dark Night, and uncer-
"tain Road: However, that the prefent Exigence
VOL. II.
N
..
they
178
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
៩ they were in, required extraordinary Remedies,
"and a ſpeedy Refolution; and in a Cafe where
nothing was fecure, they were to weigh the fe-
"veral Difficulties, and to chufe that which was at-
"tended by the feweft Inconveniencies."
He had fcarce finiſhed his Diſcourſe, when all
the Captains agreed, That no other Refolution was
practicable, and that they ran the leaft Hazard in
refolving to proceed on their March without fur-
ther Delay than what was abfolutely neceffary, mean-
ing fome Hours of Reft to refreſh the People; and
it was determined to begin the March at Midnight;
Cortes conforming himſelf to what was really his
own Opinion, tho' he treated it as, the Opinion of
others. A fubtil Piece of Policy which he was ac-
cuſtomed to make Ufe of, in order to prevent Dif
putes when the Affair was urgent, and admitted of
no Delay, and which only thofe can practife who
underſtand the Art of deciding by afking Advice,
and of making a Propofal in fuch a Manner as to
leave no room for Objections.
CHAP. XX.
The Spaniards continue their Retreat. They
undergo great Fatigue and Difficulties. The
Army reaches the Vally of Otumba, where,
in a pitched Battle, the whole Power of
Mexico is utterly defeated.
Little before the appointed Hour, the Troops
A
were affembled, having flept in Fear, and
waked without Difficulty. The Order to march,
and the Reaſon for fo doing, were given at the fame
Time;
Book IV. Conquest of Mexico.
179
Time; upon which they all diligently prepared for
their fetting out, applauding the Prudence of the
Refolution. Cortes ordered, that as a Blind to con-
ceal from the Enemy their Motion, they fhould
leave all the Fires burning; and giving to Diego de
Ordaz the Charge of the Van-Guard, with fome
truſty and intelligent Guides, he placed his chief
Strength in the Rear, where he himſelf remained,
that he might be nearer the Danger, and by his
Care and Vigilance, be a Security to thofe who
pafs'd before. They fet forward with all neceffary
Caution, and the Guides being ordered to keep at
fome Diſtance from the High Road, till the Morn-
ing, they marched a little more than half a League,
without the Silence of the Night being interrupted
by the leaſt Noife.
BUT, upon their entring into a broken and hilly
Ground, the Scouts fell into an Ambuſh, which the
very People who endeavoured to hide themſelves,
knew not how to conceal; for they gave Notice of
the Danger beforehand, both by Shouts and Stones.
Divers Troops of Indians came pouring down from
the Eminences, and rufhing out from among the
Buſhes, and without Order, attacked on the Flanks;
and notwithſtanding they were not fo numerous as
to oblige the Army to halt, yet the Spaniards were
neceffitated to beat off the moft daring of the Enemy
who ventured neareſt, to break through feveral Am-
bufcades, and to difpute divers narrow Paffes. The
Spaniards were apprehenfive at firft, that it was a
fecond Attack of the whole Army, which they had
left on the other Side of the Temple; and fome of
our Writers report this Action as a Purfuit made
by thofe Mexicans: But thefe intermitted and loofe
Attacks were not agreeable to their Manner of fight-
ing, nor to what they afterwards did: And in our
Opinion, they were the Militia of the neighbouring
N 2
Towns,
180 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
1
Towns, who, by previous Orders received from
Court, endeavoured to diſturb the Army's March,
poſting themſelves in the broken Parts of the Road:
For if the Mexicans had difcovered the Retreat, they
would have come all in a Body as they were accu-
ftomed to do; they would, with their united Force,
have begun the Attack in the Rear, and not have
divided themfelves into fimall Companies, convert-
ing the War into a few light Skirmishes.
WITH this kind of Oppofition, which was rather
troubleſome than dangerous, the Army advanced
two Leagues; and a little before Day, they halted
in another Temple, lefs capacious, and fituated
upon an Eminence not altogether fo high as the
former, but of fufficient Height to view the Coun-
try round about, and by the Number of Enemies
they ſhould diſcover, to judge what Meaſures and
Refolutions were propereft to be taken for their Se-
curity. The Light of the Morning did not only
diſcover what Sort of Indians they had to deal with,
but likewiſe the Diſorder in which they were; and
finding that what they had fufpected for a new
Charge of the Enemy's Army, was no more than
the Infults of a defpicable Herd of Peaſants, they
renewed their March without farther Delay, with
the Intent of advancing as far before the Enemy as
poffibly they could, in order to avoid, or at leaſt
to render more difficult, the Purfuit of the Mexi-
cans.
THE Indian Peaſants continued their Shouts, fol-
lowing the Army at a Diſtance, like frightned Dogs,
which by barking exprefs their impotent Rage; till
having advanced about two Leagues farther, they
diſcovered a Village advantageouſly ſituated, and,
as they believed, well peopled. Cortes pitched upon
this Place for his Quarters, and gave Orders to his
Troops to poffefs themſelves of it by Force, if they
could
Book IV.
181
Conquest of MEXICO.
could not by fair Means; but they found it wholly
forfaken by the Inhabitants, together with fome
Provifions which they could not carry off; and
which, at that Juncture, were very neceffary for the
recruiting their exhaufted Strength.
HERE the Army ſtayed a Day, and fome fay
two; the Condition of the Wounded being fuch,
that they could not proceed fooner. They made
two Marches more through a Country ftill more
rocky and barren, always out of the great Road,
and fomewhat doubtful whether their Guides went
right. They had no Cover, under which to paſs
the Night; nor did the Perfecution of thofe Indians
ceafe, who continually kept in Sight; or perhaps
they might be others, who came out upon the firſt
Order to follow them thro' their reſpective Di-
ftricts. But above all other Inconveniences in thefe
Marches, they fuffered Hunger and Thirft to that De-
gree, that they wanted little of being quite difpirited.
The Officers and Soldiers animated each other; and
Patience, ambitious of vying with Valour, us'd its
utmoft Efforts to withſtand thofe fevere Trials.
They were forced to have Recourfe to the Herbs
and Roots of the Field for Suftenance, without
examining whether they were venomous or harm-
lefs, tho' fuch as were the most prudent, governed
themſelves by the Knowledge and Example of the
Tlafcalans. One of the wounded Horfes died, and
the Want they had of that Creature's Service in the
Army was forgot with Joy; for it was divided, as
a particular Regale, among thofe who were in the
greateſt Extremity, who celebrated the Feaft by in-
viting their beſt Friends to partake of that dainty
Food. A reliſhing Banquet at that Time, at which
all Scruples of the Stomach gave Way to Neceffity.
THE laft of thefe two Marches terminated in a
little Village, whoſe Inhabitants, without abandon-
N 3
?
ing
182
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
ing their Dwellings like the others, gave them free
Entrance; neither were they wanting in their Affi-
ftance to them with a feeming Chearfulneſs and
Sedulity in every Thing they were ordered; which
Obfequioufnefs, and unexpected Entertainment, was
a new Stratagem of the Mexicans, that their Ene-
mies might come leſs prepared to the Snare which
they had provided for them. Theſe Villagers
freely fhewed their Stores of Proviſion, and from
other neighbouring Villages procured what was
fufficient to make the fatigued Spaniards forget
their paft Sufferings. Early in the Morning the
Army was already difpofed to afcend the Mountain,
which, on the other Side, declined into the Valley
of Otumba, thro' which they muft of Neceffity pafs
to take the Road that leads to Tlafcala. They
obferved fome Alteration in the Indians who fol-
lowed their March; for their Shouts and Scoffs
expreffed rather a joyful Satisfaction than Indigna-
tion: And Donna Marina took Notice, that they
frequently faid, go on, Tyrants! go on; for you will
quickly arrive at the Place where you will all perish.
Thefe Expreffion's gave them Occafion to reflect;
for thofe Words were too often repeated not to
import fomething particular. Some began to doubt,
that theſe Indians, confiding in the Tlafcalans, re-
joiced at the Danger to which the Spaniards were
marching, as having received fome Notice that there..
had happened a Change in the Fidelity or Affection
of that Nation. But Cortes, and thofe of better
Judgment and Penetration, looked upon this No-
velty as no other than a Token of fome Ambuſh
that was then nearer than Tlafcala; for there wanted
not Examples of the Simplicity and Eaſineſs with
which the Indians were wont to publifh the very
Thing which they endeavoured to conceal.
THEY
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
183
THEY Continued their March, forwarned now,
and their Minds difpofed for entering upon frefh
Action; when the advanced Guard, having reach'd
the Mountain Top, came back with an Account,
that the Enemy had poffeffed themſelves of all the
Valley, barring up the Paffage to the Road whither
they were directing their Courfe with a moft for-
midable Multitude. It was the fame Body of
Mexicans which they had left at the firft Temple,
reinforced with new Troops, and other Com-
manders. They difcovered in the Morning, as
may be prefum'd by the fucceeding Circumſtances,
the fudden Retreat of the Spaniards; and notwith-
itanding they did not doubt but that they fhould
be able to overtake them, yet they feared, very
confiderately, by the Experience of that Night,
that it would not be poſſible to deſtroy them before
they reach'd the Tlafcalan Territories, if they went
on fecuring the advantageous Pofts of the Moun-
tains: For which Reaſon they fent Difpatches to
Mexico for Re-inforcement, that an Affair of fo
much Importance might not mifcarry for want of
neceffary Force; which Propofal was fo well re-
ceived in the City that all the Nobility inſtantly fet
out, followed by the reft of the Troops which
they had affembled, to join the Army; and in the
finall Space of Three or Four Days they divided
themſelves by different Roads, marching under
Shelter of the Mountains with fuch Expedition,
that they got before the Spaniards, and filled the
whole Valley of Otumba, which was a very fpaci-
ous Plain, where they might, undiſcovered, wait
for the Spaniards their Enemies, and attack them
without embaraffing each other for want of Room.
A Project well concerted, and as well executed;
and which might be envyed by Leaders of greater
Experience,
N 4
184
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
Experience, and People better difciplined and lefs
barbarous.
UPON the first Intelligence it was not fufpected
that they were the Mexicans; but on the contrary,
the Spaniards believed, as they were going up the
Hill, that the difperfed Troops had united them-
felves in order to defend fome Pafs; but upon
gaining the Summit, they difcovered a very power-
ful Army, and in much better Order than any
they had feen before, whofe Front took up the
whole Breadth of the Valley, whofe Depth the
Eye could not reach, and which was the laft Effort
of the Mexican Power, compofed of various Na-
tions, as the Diverfity of the feveral Colours and
Standards denoted. The Captain-General of the
Empire was diftinguiſhed in the Centre of the
Multitude, born up upon Men's Shoulders, in a
Litter moft fumptuously adorned, in fuch Manner,
that being a Witnefs of every one's Behaviour,
his Orders might be punctually executed. Upon
his Chair or Litter, ſtood erected the Royal Standard
of Mexico, which was not intrufted to any other
Hand but his, and could only be brought into the
Field in Cafes of the greateſt Exigence and Im-
portance. The Form of this Standard was a Net
of Maffy Gold, hanging on a Pike, and crown'd
with a Plume of Feathers of various Colours, both
the one and the other myfteriouſly denoting a
Superiority above the reft of Hieroglyphicks of
the leffer Enfigns. The wavering and confufed
Motion of fuch different Arms and Feathers ap-
peared beautiful amidst fo many Objects of Hor-
ror.
THE Spanish Army perceiving the fresh Danger
for which they were to prepare their Minds and
Arms, Cortes began to examine the Countenances
of his People with that natural Fire in his Look,
which
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
185
<c
The
which influenced their Hearts far better than Words;
and finding them rather infpired with a generous
Refentment, than ftruck with Fear, "Our Cafe is
now fuch, faid he, that we muft either die or
conquer: The Cauſe of our God fights for us."
Nor had he Time to fay any more; for the Soldiers
themſelves interrupted him, crying out for the
Word of Command, in order to engage; upon
which he only ſtay'd to give them fome few necef-
fary Precautions, fuch as the preſent Occafion re-
quired; and, as he was accuſtomed, invoking St.
James, and St. Peter, he advanc'd with his Front
extended, and united the Body of the Army with
the Wings of the Horfe, who were appointed to
defend the Flanks, and fecure the Rear. The Fire-
Arms and Crofs-Bows made their first Diſcharges
fo opportunely, that the Enemy had fcarce Time
to make Ufe of their miffive Weapons.
Swords and Lances did ftill greater Damage, the
Horfe taking Care, at the fame Time, to break
and to put to Flight thofe Troops which endeavour-
ed to incloſe the Army. They gained ſome
Ground by this firft Charge. The Spaniards gave
no Stroke without a Wound, nor any Wound
which needed a fecond Blow. The Tlafcalans
threw themſelves into the thickeft of the Battle,
with an infatiable Thirft after Mexican Blood; and
all had fuch Command of their Paffions, that they
killed with Choice; firft feeking out thofe who
appeared to be Leaders. But the Mexicans fought
with great Obftinacy, advancing, tho' not with the
beft Order, yet with furprizing Refolution to fup-
ply the Places of thoſe who fell; and the Spaniards
were fatigued with the Slaughter of them, for the
Battle was continually renewing with fresh Men.
Their whole Army feemed to give Way when-
ever the Cavalry charged them, or the Fire-Arms
advanced;
186 The HISTORY of the Book IV.
advanced; but they returned with new Vigour to
recover their loft Ground, the Multitude moving
from Place to Place with fuch Celerity, that the
whole Field appeared like a ftormy Sea of Men;
the perpetual Flux and Reflux feeming to autho-
rize that Simile.
CORTES fought on Horfeback, continually re-
lieving, with his Troop, where the greateſt Streſs
lay, carrying Death and Terror upon the Point of
his Lance, wherefoever he came: But the obftinate
Refiſtance of the Indians gave him no fmall Con-
cern; for it was not poffibly to be hoped, but that
the Strength of his Men muft abate with fuch
unintermitting Action; and reflecting upon the
Meaſures he might take to advantage himſelf, or
to make his Way to the Road, he was relieved in
this Perplexity by one of thofe Obfervations which
he was accuſtomed to lay up in his Mind to make
Ufe of upon Occafion. He remembred to have
heard among the Mexicans, that the whole Fortune
of their Battles depended upon the Standard Royal,
the gaining or lofing of which decided the Fortune
of the Day on either Side: And being not infen-
fible into what Diforder and Confufion the Enemy
was always put by the Charge of the Cavalry, he
took a Refolution to make an extraordinary Effort
for the gaining of the Imperial Standard, which
he could very well diftinguifh. To this Effect he
called for the Captains Gonzalo de Sandoval, Pedro
de Alvarado, Chriſtoval de Olid, and Alonzo Davila,
to follow and fecure his Rear, together with the
reft of the Horfe which generally attended him.
Having encouraged them with a fhort Harangue,
and given the neceffary Inftructions how they were
to proceed, he advanced with little more than half
Speed, and attacked on that Part which appeared
weakeft, and leaft diftant from the Centre. The
Indians
1
Book IV. Conquest of Mexico.
187
Indians gave back, dreading, as they always did,
the Shock of the Cavalry; and before they could
recover themſelves to make a fecond Motion, the
Spaniards threw themſelves upon the confufed and
difordered Multitude with fuch Vigour, and in
fuch good Order, that breaking and treading under
Foot whole Battalions, they, without much Op-
pofition, arrived at the Place where the Imperial
Standard was defended by the Band of Nobles who
were appointed for its Guard: And while the Cap-
tains were difperfing that numerous Guard, Cortes
fpurred on his Horfe, and clofed with the Captain-
General of the Mexicans, who, at the firft Stroke
of his Lance, fell, being dangerously wounded,
on the other Side of his Litter. He was foon for-
faken by his Guard, and left almoſt alone, when
Juan de Salamanca, a private Gentleman, leaped
from his Horſe, put an End to the little Life he
had left, and feizing the Standard, gave it into the
Hands of Cortes. This Juan de Salamanca was a Per-
fon of fome Diſtinction in the Army, and for having,
upon that Occafion, done his General fuch a Piece
of Service, the Emperor conferred fome Favours
upon him, giving him for the Creſt of his Arms
the Plume of Feathers which crowned the Mexican
Standard.
SCARCE did thefe Barbarians behold the Impe-
rial Standard in the Power of the Spaniards, when
they ftruck all the rest of their Colours; and
throwing down their Arms, they betook themſelves
to a precipitate Flight, feeking for Shelter in the
adjacent Woods and Fields of Maiz. The neigh-
bouring Mountains were all covered with the ter-
rified Remnants of the Mexican Army; and in a
few Moments the Field of Battle remained to the
victorious Spaniards, who purfued their Victory
with
188
The HISTORY of the Book IV.
with all the Rigour of War, and made a moſt ter-
rible Deſtruction of the Fugitives. It was abfolutely
neceffary to ruin and difperfe them, that they
might not return to unite again: Anger and Re-
fentment urged what Conveniency dictated. On
our Side fome were wounded, of which Number
Two or Three Spaniards died at Tlafcala; and
Cortes himself received a Blow on his Head with a
Stone, fo violent that it battered his Head-piece,
and made a fmall Fraction in his Skull; but the
Hurt done by the Contufion was ftill greater. The
Spoil was given to the Soldiers, which was very
confiderable; for the Mexicans came provided with
coftly Jewels and Ornaments, as to an affured Tri-
umph. The Hiſtory fays, That Twenty thoufand
Indians loft their Lives in this Battle. Matters,
upon fuch Occafions, are generally ſtretched; but
whoever will believe that the routed Army con-
fifted of above Two hundred thoufand Men, will
find lefs Improbability in the Greatness of the
former Number. All Writers, as well Strangers
as thofe of our own Nation, relate this Victory as
one of the greateſt that was obtained in the Two
America's. And if it were certain, St. James the
Apoſtle fought vifibly for the Spaniards, as fome
Prifoners affirmed, the Slaughter of thofe People
would appear more credible, or lefs furprizing,
although, in Truth, it was not neceffary to have
Recourſe to a vifible Miracle, where there appeared
fo many Evidences of the immediate Hand of
God;
to whofe Power the Succeffes of Armies
ought ever to be attributed, with eſpecial Con-
fideration, fince He has proclaimed himſelf to be
the Lord of Hofts; that Mortals may be fen-
fible that it behoves them to hope for Victory at
his Divine Hands, and to acknowledge it to be
only
Book IV. Conquest of MEXICO.
189
only at his Heavenly Difpofal, without making
any Account of their own Strength, tho' ever fo
great: For fometimes he chaftifes Injuftice by af-
fifting the lefs powerful; neither ſhould any offer.
to confide in the Goodneſs of their Caufe; for at
other Times he corrects thofe whom he moſt fa-
vours, giving the Charge of the Stroke to an impi-
ous and unworthy Hand.
4
يو
The END of the FOURTH BOOK.
THE
[ 190 ]
THE
HISTORY
Of the CONQUEST of
MEXICO, or NEW SPAIN.
BOOK V.
CHA P. I.
The Army marches into the Province of Tlaf-
cala, and quarters in Gualipar; the Caziques
and Senators come to vifit Cortes: They cele-
brate his Entry into their City with publick
Rejoicings; and Cortes, by fresh Experience,
finds he had fecured the Affections of thoſe
People.
C
ORTES gave Orders for affembling his
Troops, which were ſcattered up and down
for the Sake of pillaging. The Soldiers
took their Pofts, and purfued their March, not
without Sufpicion of the Enemy's rallying; for they
obferved
Book V.
191
Conqueft of MEXICO.
obſerved feveral Bodies of Men on the Tops of the
Mountains: But it being impoffible that Day to get
clear of the Mexican Confines, and withal neceffary
to take Care of the Wounded, they poffeffed them-
felves of fome Houfes, where they paffed the
Night, as in a Place of no great Security, and the
next Day they found the Roads free from Enemies,
the neighbouring Plains fecuring them from all
Danger of Ambufcades: However, they ftill per-
ceived Signs of their being in an Enemy's Country,
by the Cries and diftant Menaces of the Mexicans,
who after that manner took leave of thofe they
could not stop.
A little after, they difcovered and entered the
Bounds of Tlafcala, known to this Day by fome
Remains of that famous Wall, which was built by
the ancient Inhabitants to defend the Frontiers of
their Country, joining together the Hills that bor-
dered it, in all thofe Places which Nature had
not made inacceffible. The whole Army exprefs'd
their Joy by Acclamations, upon their entering the
Territories of this Republick. The Tlafcalans threw
themſelves upon their Faces to kifs the Earth,
like difconfolate Children returned to the Lap of
their Mother. The Spaniards made their thankful
Acknowledgments to Heaven for this Repofe after
fo many Fatigues, and they all lay down near a
Fountain, whofe Water at that Time gained the
Reputation of being delicate and wholeſome, from
the Praiſes the Spaniards gave it, which have been
particularly mentioned by feveral Writers; whe-
ther it were that their violent Thirſt made it ſeem
the more refreſhing, or that they could now allay
it in Peace and Security.
In this Place Hernan Cortes made a fhort Dif-
courſe, telling them " of what Importance it was
"to preferve the Friendship of the Tlafcalans, by
their
192
The HISTORY of the Book V.
"their Kindneſs and Civility; and that, when they
"came into the City, they fhould look upon the
r
giving Offence to any one Inhabitant, as a Mat-
"ter that might endanger their common Safety."
He afterwards refolved to ftop by the Way to
gain Intelligence, and difpofe Matters for his Entry
with the Knowledge and Permiffion of the Senate;
and accordingly, at Noon he halted at Gualipar, a
confiderable Town in thofe Days. The Inhabitants
met them at fome Diftance, to fhew their Good-
will, offering their Houfes, and whatever elſe they
had Occafion for, with fo much Reſpect and Sub-
miſſion, that the moft Jealous acknowledged there
could be no room to fufpect a People of Artifice,
who gave fuch Proofs of their Sincerity. Cortes
accepted the Invitation, and quartered his Soldiers.
with all the Caution that was neceffary to be per-
fectly fecure.
His firft Care after this was to fend two Tlaf
calans with an Account to the Senate of his Re-
treat and Succeſs: But Fame had already carried
the News of his Victory; and almoſt at the fame
Time came his great Friend Magifcatzin, the blind
Xicotencal, with his Son and others, to vifit him on
the part of the Republick. Magifcatzin advanced
before the reft, cafting himſelf into his Arms, and
then ſtepping back, that he might behold and ad-
mire him, as one that fcarce believed he had the
Happineſs to ſee him alive. The blind Xicotencal,
guided by the Sound, made his Way with his
Hands, expreffing his Affection after a more ten-
der manner; for having informed himſelf by the
Touch, he fhewed his Satisfaction by a Flood of
Tears, the only way by which his Eyes could
teſtify his Joy. The reft came after, whilft the
firſt went to congratulate the Captains and Soldiers
of their Acquaintance. On this Occafion, Xicoten-
cal
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
193
cal the Younger diſtinguiſhed himſelf, by appearing
fomewhat diſſatisfied, and referved in his Compli-
ments; and altho' it was attributed at that Time
to the Ruggednefs of a military Man, it foon ap-
peared that he preferved in his Mind the Diftruft of
a reconciled Friend, and the ungrateful Remem-
brance of having been conquered. Hernan Cortes
went afide with the Senators and found in their Con-
verfation and Behaviour all the Delicacy of Man-
ners, which could have been expected from a Peo-
ple of the greateſt Politenefs. They informed him,
that they had already got together their Troops to
fuccour him againſt the common Enemy, and were
ready to march with thirty thoufand Men to fecure
his Retreat. They expreffed a great Concern for
his Wounds, looking on them as fo many Sacri-
leges committed in that feditious War. They re-
gretted the Death of the Spaniards, and particularly
of Juan Velasquez de Leon, whom they loved, as
being fenfible of his good Qualities. They con-
demned the barbarous Confpiracy of the Mexicans;
and, laftly, offered to affift him in his Revenge
with all their Forces, and thofe of their Allies;
adding, That they were now not only Friends of
the Spaniards, but likewife Vaffals of their King,
and fo were doubly obliged to obey his Minifter's
Orders, and die by his Side. And after this man-
ner they concluded their Difcourfe, nicely diftin-
guifhing betwixt the two Obligations of Friendship
and Vaffalage, and declaring themſelves bound by
Loyalty, to what they were before engaged by In-
clination. Cortes made great Acknowledgments for
their Offers; and by all that could be gathered
from their Difcourfe, they not only retain'd their
Good-will for the Spaniards, but had improved it
into an Eſteem: For the Lofs they fuftained at
their marching out of Mexico, was looked on as
VOL. II.
O
an
194
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
an Accident of War, and was wholly effaced by
the Victory of Otumba, which was admired in Tlaf-
cala as a Prodigy of Valour, and the chief Glory of
the Retreat. They propofed, that he ſhould im-
mediately go to the City, where his Quarters were
provided; nevertheleſs they readily confented to
allow the Spaniards fome Time to refresh them-
felves, becauſe they were defirous to prepare
for
his Entry, which they determined to honour with
publick Solemnity, and to celebrate after the fame
manner they did the Triumphs of their own Generals.
THE Army continued three Days in Gualipar,
being liberally fupplyed with every thing that was
neceffary, at the Charge of the Republick. After
which, the Wounded being fomewhat recovered,
Cortes gave Notice to the City, and prepared to
march. The Spaniards put on all their Finery that
Day, adorning themfelves with the Jewels and
Plumes of the vanquished Mexicans; an outward
Shew which declared the Importance of the Vic-
tory: For, on fome Occafions, Oftentation gives
Credit to a Caufe, and Modefty is unfeafonable.
The Caziques and Minifters of State, in Form of
a Senate, clad in their richeſt Robes, and accom-
panied by a numerous Attendance of their Rela-
tions, came out to receive the Army. The Roads
were covered with People, the Air was filled with
Acclamations of popular Applauſe, and nothing
was heard but the Praifes of the Victors, and Re-
proaches upon the Mexicans. At their Entrance
into the City, they were entertained with the
Sounds of Kettle-Drums, Flutes, and Winding-
Horns, diftributed into different Choirs, which al-
ternately fucceeded each other, making a pacifick
Mufick with their warlike Inftruments. The Troops
being conveniently quartered, Cortes confented, af-
ter much Refiftance, to lodge with Magifcatzin;
giving
Book V.
195
Conquest of MEXICO.
giving way to his earneſt Intreaties, that he might
not diſoblige him. And for the fame Reaſon,
Pedro de Alvarado went with old Xicotencal; but
altho' the reft of the Caziques were defirous to en-
tertain the other Captains, they courteously declined
it, it being improper to leave the Main Guard
without a fufficient Number of Officers. The Spa-
niards made their Entry into Tlafcala in the Month
of July 1520. altho' in this Point Writers are not
intirely agreed: But I fhall referve my Difcuf-
fions for Matters of more Confequence, and where
a fmall Variation is of great Importance.
THE fame Evening they began their Feftival of
the Triumph, which continued for fome Days, the
Indians all employing their utmoſt Addrefs to di-
vert their Gueſts, and celebrate their Victory, with-
out excepting the Nobles, or thoſe who had loft
Friends and Relations in the Engagement; whether
it were that they defired to take part in the general
Joy, or that it was not permitted in this warlike
Nation to eſteem the End of thofe unfortunate,
who died in Battle. They gave Challenges, and
Rewards were affigned for the beſt Markfmen.
They contended likewife in the Exerciſes of Leap-
ing and Running; the Evenings were fpent in
the Diverfion of Rope-Dancing; an Excercife they
were very fond of, and where the Mind of the
Spectator is divided betwixt Fear and Pleafure. But
the Shew always ended with Balls, and certain
Dances in Maſquerade; the Diverfion of the Mul-
titude, whofe diforderly, noify Mirth finished the
Demonftrations of their Applaufe.
The
THE Sincerity and good Correfpondence of theſe
People anſwered all the Hopes of Cortes.
Nobles were friendly and refpectful, and the com-
mon People paffionately fond, and fubmiffively
obedient. Cortes expreffed a grateful Senſe of their
Affection
O %
1
196
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
Affection for him, commended their Diverfions,
careffing fome, and honouring others with equal
Confidence and Satisfaction. The Captains affifted
him in the gaining of Friends by their Courteſy
and Prefents; and even the meaneft Soldiers endea-
voured to make themfelves lov'd, by fharing gene-
rouſly with the Tlafcalans the Jewels, and Spoils
they had brought from the Battle. But in the
Spring-time (as I may fay) of this Felicity, an
Accident happened which gave a Damp to all their
Joy. For the Wound which Cortes had received
in his Head, and which was ill cured, appeared
afreſh with bad Symptoms; and the over-much
Exerciſe he had uſed on theſe Days of Rejoicing,
occafioned an Inflammation in his Brain, with a ftrong
Fever, which reduced him to fuch a Condition,
that his Life was thought to be in Danger.
THE Spaniards looked on this unhappy Accident,
as what threatened no lefs than the Lofs of their
Lives and Fortunes; but the Concern of the In-
dians was more remarkable, as being leſs expected;
for they no fooner heard of his Illness, but lay-
ing afide all their Mirth, they fell into the other
Extreme of an inconfolable Grief. The Nobles,
full of Anxiety and Sorrow, were continually en-
quiring after the Teule, a Name which we have
before obferved they gave to their Demigods, or al-
moft Deities. The common People came in Troops
to bewail his Lofs, fo that the Spaniards were
obliged to deceive them with the Hopes of his
mending, in order to keep them at a Diſtance, that
they might not diſturb Cortes with their Cries and
Lamentations. The Senate fent for all the beſt
Phyſicians of their Country, whofe Skill confifted
in the Knowledge and Choice of Medicinal Herbs,
which they applied with a wonderful Difcernment
of their Virtues and Effects, varying the Medicine
according
Book V.
197
Conquest of MEXICO.
1
according to the Condition and different Turns of
the Distemper; and to them he was entirely be-
holden for his Cure: For making uſe at firſt of
wholeſome cooling Simples, to correct the Inflam-
mation, and mitigate the Pain, which occafioned
the Fever, they proceeded, by degrees, to apply
others proper to ripen and heal the Wound, with
fo much Skill and good Fortune, that in a little
time, they reſtored him to his perfect Health.
LET the rational Phyfician laugh at Empiricks;
'tis certain, however, that the firſt Knowledge of
Phyfick was from Experience; and in a Country
entirely unacquainted with Natural Philofophy,
which fearches out Caufes by Effects, it was no
fmall Matter to find fo great a Progrefs made in
the Knowledge of Nature. The News of his Re-
covery was celebrated with freſh Rejoicings, and
Hernan Cortes had further Experience of the Affec-
tions of the Tlafcalans: And his Head being now
at liberty for Thought, he refumed his high De-
figns, forming new Plans to avoid the Inconveni-
encies, and remove the Difficulties which attended
his Undertaking; an inward War of Objections
and Solutions, the End of which was to reconcile
Prudence with Magnanimity.
CHA P.
O 3
198
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
CHAP.
II,
An Account comes that the Province of Tepeaca
had taken up Arms. Embajadors arrive at
Tlafcala from Mexico. A Confpiracy, car-
ried on by Xicotencal the Younger, against
the Spaniards, is difcovered.
HE
TERNAN CORTES was in Pain to know
the Condition of Affairs at Vera Cruz, the
Prefervation of that Place being the principal Bafis
and Foundation of his new Projects. He wrote
immediately to Rodrigo Rangel, whom he had ap-
pointed Lieutenant in that Government, under Gon-
zalo de Sandoval; and quickly received an Anſwer
by the extraordinary Diligence of the Couriers of
that Country, importing, That nothing new had hap-
pened either in the Garrifon, or on the Coaft, to
give him any Concern: That Narvaez and Salva-
tierra were in fafe Cuftody; and that the Soldiers
were pleaſed, and kindly treated; the Zempoalans,
Totonaques, and other Confederate Nations, adhe-
ring, with great Fidelity and Friendſhip, to the
Terms of their Alliance.
But at the fame time he acquainted him, that
the Corporal and eight Soldiers, who went to Tlaf-
cala for the Gold belonging to the Garriſon, were
not returned; and that if the Report, current
among the Indians, was true, of their having been
murdered in the Province of Tepeaca, it was to be
feared, that the wounded Soldiers of Narvaez, who
remained behind in Zempoala, had met with the
fame Fate; for as faft as they recovered, they
marched away in little Troops, being extremely
defirous
Book V.
199
Conquest of MEXICO.
defirous to arrive at Mexico, which they confidered
as the Centre of all their Wealth and Profperity.
THIS Misfortune much afflicted Cortes, becauſe
he had reckoned upon the Reinforcement of thoſe
Soldiers, whofe Number, according to Antonio de
Herrera, amounted to above fifty; and allowing it
lefs, as Bernal Diaz del Caftillo writes, yet was the
Lofs very great upon this Occafion, and in a Coun-
try where one Spaniard was of more Value than a
thouſand Indians. Upon this Cortes enquired a
mongſt his Tlafcalan Friends, who confirmed the
Report of Rangel; and faid they had concealed it
from him, left fuch bad News might have been a
Hindrance to his Recovery.
It is moſt certain, that the eight Soldiers who
went from Vera-Cruz, arrived at Tlaſcala, and left
again that Place, in order to return with their Share
of the Gold, at a time when they began to ſuſpect
the Fidelity of the Province of Tepeaca, which,
with feveral others, had fubmitted in the first
March to Mexico; and that both the one and the
other Party had been maffacred by the People of
that Province, appeared afterwards very evidently,
by their calling in the Mexican Troops to fupport
their Treafon; which made it abfolutely neceffary
to fubdue thofe Rebels, and drive the Enemy to a
greater Diſtance. Nor did this Defign admit of
any Delay, becauſe the Situation of that Province
cut off the Communication between Mexico and
Vera-Cruz; and it was neceffary to open that Paf-
fage, before they could undertake any thing of
Importance: Nevertheleſs Hernan Cortes deferred to
afk of the Republick the Affiftance of their Forces ;
becauſe he was informed at the fame time, that
the Tepeacans had fome Days before made an Inroad
into the Country of Tlafcala, plundering, and de-
ftroying fome Settlements on the Frontiers; and
0 4
he
200
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
he made no Queſtion, but the Tlafcalans would
apply themfelves to him, as it fhortly after hap-
pened: For the Senate came to a Refolution ta
chaftife the Infolence of that Nation, and to endea-
vour intereſting the Spaniards in the War, as equally
exafperated and injured by the Death of their
Companions. The Affair took the Turn that Cortes
wiſhed; and he fo managed Matters, as to grant
what he was under a Neceffity of afking.
THERE happened afterwards another Accident,
which gave the Spaniards freſh Difquiet: For there
came Advice from Gualipar, that three or four
Ambaffadors, fent by the new Emperor of Mexico,
to the Republick of Tlafcala, were arrived on the
Frontiers, where they ftayed, expecting Leave to
proceed to the City. The Tlafcalans deliberated
upon the Matter with fome Admiration, and with-
out being ignorant that the Negotiations of a
powerful Enemy, were to be regarded as difguifed
Menaces: But tho' they verily believed the Embaffy
was defigned againſt the Spaniards, and were fully
refolved, not to forfake the Defence of their
Friends on any account, they decreed to admit the
Ambaffadors; that at leaſt they might have the
Advantage arifing from this Acknowledgment of
their Equality; a Condefcenfion very unuſual, and
little agreeing with the Pride of the Mexican Princes.
And it is thought, that the Senate came to this
Refolution with the Approbation of Cortes; for
the Ambaffadors were conducted publickly to their
Audience: And throughout this whole Tranfaction,
there was not the leaft Pretence to fufpect the
Sincerity of the Tlafcalans.
THE Entry was made with great Solemnity and
Splendor; the Tamenes, in good Order, went at the
Head of the Proceffion, with the Prefents, con-
fifting of fome Pieces of Gold and Silver, fine
Cotton
Book V.
201
Conquest of MEXICO.
Cotton Cloths, Plumes, and other Curiofities, with
feveral Loads of Salt, a Merchandize very much
prized and coveted in thoſe Parts. The Ambaſ-
fadors carried the Enfigns of Peace in their Hands,
and were richly adorned with Jewels, and accom-
panied by a numerous Train of Friends and Ser-
vants; wherein they imagined, that they difplayed
the Grandeur of their Prince: And fometimes in-
deed, a vain Oftentation of Power is of Ufe in an
Embaffy; and by dazling or diverting the Eye,
makes it eaſier to impofe on the Ear. The Senate
received them at their Tribunal, and were neither
deficient nor exceffive in point of Ceremony; being
jealous of the Rights belonging to their Sove-
reignty, and but ill concealing their Difguft, under
the Appearance of Civility.
AFTER naming the Emperor of Mexico, with
Ceremonies of profound Submiffion, the Ambaf-
fadors made" an Offer of Peace, and perpetual
66
Alliance, between the two Nations, Freedom of
"Commerce, and Community of Intereſts, on
"Condition they would immediately make War
upon the Spaniards; and, taking Advantage of
"their Security, deftroy them at once.
66
But
they could not proceed in their Difcourfe, being
interrupted first by a confufed Murmur, occafioned
by the Senate's diſapproving what they faid; and
afterwards by a greater Noife, their Difpleaſure
breaking out into diforderly and inconfiderate Ex-
preffions.
BUT one of the antient Senators reprefented to
them the Indecency of this Procedure, contrary to
Cuſtom and Reafon; and obtained, that the Am-
baffadors fhould retire to their Lodging, and there
expect the Refolution of the Republick: Which being
done, they conferred among themſelves, and with-
out ſtaying to put it to the Vote, they all agreed
in
202
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
st
..
in what fome had already declared thro' Inadver-
tency, though they foftened the Expreffions of
their Refufal, and Anger gave way to Civility.
They concluded to fend three or four Deputies
with the Senate's Anfwer to the Ambaffadors;
which contained in Subſtance, "That the Repub-
"lick would admit the Peace with all poffible Re-
"fpect, provided the Conditions were reafonable,
"and confiftent with the Intereft and Honour of
"both Nations: But that the Tlafcalans were re-
ligious Obfervers of the Laws of Hofpitality,
" and were not us'd to betray thofe who confided
"in them; that they valued themſelves upon ac-
counting that impoffible which was unlawful, and
upon ſpeaking the Truth without Difguife; not
"underſtanding the Ufe of falfe Pretences, or
"how to palliate Treafon by giving it fome other
"Name.' But the Ambaffadors did not ftay
long enough to receive this Anſwer; for, finding
their Propofition fo ill received, they immediately
made off; and the Hafte and Fear wherewith they
retired, were equal to the Gravity of their Entry:
And it was not thought proper to ftop them; for
it being reported in Tlafcale, that they came to
folicit a War against the Spaniards, there was Rea-
ſon to apprehend fome popular Infurrection, which
might break thro' the Privileges of Ambaffadors,
and the Refpect due to the Senate.
..
THOUGH this Defign of the Mexicans was defeat-
ed to the great Satisfaction of the Spaniards, it was
attended with an Inconveniency, which created a
farther Uneafinefs: For Xicotencal the younger,
concealed his Opinion in the Senate, voting with
the reft, either becauſe he was afraid of the Dif
pleaſure of fome of his Friends, or out of Re-
ſpect to his Father; nevertheleſs this Embaffy gave
him a Handle, to fcatter among his Friends and
Followers,
Book V.
203
Conquest of MEXICO.
Followers, the Poifon which abounded in his Heart,
making uſe of this Peace propoſed by the Mexi-
cans; not that it was his Inclination, or Intereft,
but to cover the Scandal of his Envy and evil
Defigns, with a fpecious Pretence. "The Mexi-
"can Emperor, faid he, whofe formidable Power
obliges us always to be in Arms, engaged in the
perpetual Misfortune of a defenfive War, offers
"us his Friendship, without any other Condition,
"than the Death of the Spaniards; in which he
tr
66
66
66
only propofes, what we ought to execute our-
"felves for our own Intereft and Prefervation:
"For tho' we fhould forgive thefe Strangers their
"Intention to deſtroy our Religion, can it be
"denied, that they endeavour to change our very
"Laws and Form of Government, by converting
"into a Monarchy this venerable Republick of the
"Tlafcalans; and reducing us under the deteftable
"Dominion of an Emperor; a Yoke fo heavy
"and oppreffive, that it grieves us to fee it, even
upon the Necks of our Enemies ?" He wanted
no Eloquence to fet off his Opinion, nor Reſolution
to execute his Defigns: And though fome of his
Friends endeavoured to diffuade him from enter-
taining fuch Thoughts; yet, as he had the Reputa-
tion of a good Soldier, it was very much to be
feared, that he would engage a formidable Party
in a Country where Courage was eſteemed a Mark
of Reafon: But their Love of the Spaniards was
fo fixed in their Hearts, that he gained but few,
and the Matter was difcovered to the Magiftrates.
It was debated in the Senate with all the Seriouf-
nefs that an Affair of fo much Importance required;
and Xicotencal, the Father, was fummoned to the
Conference, nor did the Delinquent's near Relation
to him, make them in the leaft fufpect his Con-
tancy, or his Juſtice.
THEY
204
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
THEY all condemned him as a feditious Perfon,
who endeavoured to diſturb the publick Peace,
diſgrace the Refolutions of the Senate, and deſtroy
the Credit of his Nation. Some were inclined to
puniſh his Crime with Death; and his Father was
one of thoſe who moft ftrenuously promoted that
Sentence, condemning the Treafon of his Son, like
an unbiaffed Judge, and true Father of his Coun→
try.
THE honourable Conftancy of this blind old
Man, fo wrought on the Minds of the Senators,
that out of Regard to him, they mitigated the
Rigour of the Sentence, and concluded on a milder
Puniſhment; for they ordered him to be brought
Prifoner to the Senate, and after reprimanding his
Infolence with the utmoſt Severity, they took from
him the General's Staff, and deprived him of his
Command in the Army, and all Privileges belong-
ing to it, by the Ceremony of flinging him down
the Stairs of the Tribunal. The Ignominy of this
Degradation obliged him, in few Days, to apply
himſelf with all the Demonftrations of a true Re-
conciliation, to Cortes, at whofe Interceffion he was
reſtored to his Honours, and the Favour of his Fa-
ther; tho', after fome little time, the Root of his
wicked Intentions began to fprout out a fecond
time in freſh Diſorders, which coft him his Life ;
as we ſhall fee in the proper Place. Each of theſe
Accidents might have produced fatal Confequences,
but the Perfidy of Xicotencal did not come to the
Knowledge of Cortes, till the bad Effects of it were
prevented, and the Crime puniſhed; and the ill
Succefs of the Mexican Ambaffadors, gave Satif-
faction to the moſt diſtruſtful: Both Adventures
affording new Proofs of the Fidelity of the Tlaf-
calans; which in a People fo little civilized, and
when the Spaniards were at that Diſtance from all
human
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
205
human Means to fupport themſelves, may pafs for a
Miracle; at leaſt it was then looked upon as an Ef-
fect which could not be accounted for by inferior
Cauſes.
CHA P. III.
Cortes marches into the Province of Tepeaca,
where he defeats the Rebels; who, fupported
by the Mexicans, offered Battle to the Spani-
ards: He, afterwards, takes their City,
which he fortifies, and calls by the Name of
Segura de la Frontera.
WHIL
HILST young Xicotencal was, with great
Satisfaction, affembling the Troops of the
Republick, for the War of Tepeaca, and endea-
vouring, by his extraordinary Diligence, to blot
out the Remembrance of his Treachery, Cortes was
employed in convincing his own People of the
Neceffity they lay under of chaftizing the Indians
of Tepeaca; repreſenting to them, the Rebellion of
thofe Traytors, and the Death of fo many Spaniards;
with what other Motives could incite them to Com-
paffion and Revenge. But they did not all agree in
the Neceffity of this Expedition, and more efpecial-
ly, the Troops of Narvaez very ftrenuouſly oppoſed
it: The Remembrance of their paft Fatigues, made
them ardently defire Repofe, and figh after their
Poffeffions in the Ifle of Cuba, exclaiming againſt
the War as unprofitable, and infifting upon the
Return of the Army to Vera-Cruz, in order to
folicit Reinforcements from Santo Domingo and
7 maiça, and refume their Enterprize with lefs
Danger;
206
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
1
Danger; not that they had any fuch Defign in
Reality, but defired only to get nearer to the Sea,
where they imagined their Clamours and Difobe-
dience would be better ſupported; and they carried
their Boldneſs fo far, as to give the General a Pro-
teſtation in Form, containing Motives rather info-
lent than fubftantial, and where the Pretence of the
publick Good, and the Service of the King, ſerved
as a Cover to their Fear and Baſeneſs.
CORTES was the more ſenſibly concerned at their
Infolence, as happening at a time when his Enemies.
at Tepeaca had poffeffed themſelves of the Road to
Vera-Cruz, which it was impoffible to paſs, with-
out making that War, which the Mutineers refufed.
He ordered them to be affembled, and ftood in
Need of all his Moderation, to keep within Bounds
upon this Occafion. It is difficult for a Man of a
generous Spirit to diffemble a perfonal Injury; but
where Reafon itſelf is outraged by Caprice or Bruta-
lity, it is the utmoſt Trial of Patience in a Man of
Senſe.
He thanked them, as well as he could, for the
Care they took of the Prefervation of the Army,
and without lofing time, with laying before them
the Reaſons which obliged them not to fail in their
Engagements to the Tlafcalans, hazarding the Lofs
of their Friendſhip, and leaving the Treafon of the
Tepeacans unpunished; he made ufe of Motives,
proportioned to the Capacities of Men, who were
not to be affected by thofe which were more convin-
cing; and only told them, "That as the Enemy
"had feized the Paffes of the Mountains, they
"could not avoid engaging with them before they
"recovered the Plain: That to go alone upon this
ર
Expedition, would be the Lofs of the Army, or at
leaft, would hazard it without any manner of
"Reafon: That there was no demanding Succour
" from
Book V.
Conqueft of MEXICO.
207
"from the Tlafcalans, nor would they give any to
"make good a Retreat undertaken contrary to
"their Inclination; but, promifing them, upon
"his Word of Honour, that after the rebellious
"Province was fubdued, and the Paffage of the
"Road open (in order to which, the Republick
"would affift with all their Forces) all, who were
not willing to follow his Fortune, fhould have
"free Liberty to depart." Thus he induced them
to ferve in this War, by letting them know, they
were not in a Condition to form any other Defigns:
Upon this, he immediately gave Orders for the
Expedition of Tepeaca, and, for the prefent, quiet-
6c
ed the Mutineers.
CORTES drew out eight Thoufand choice Tlaf-
calans, divided into Troops according to their Cu-
ftom, commanded by Captains, of whofe Valour
he had made Proof in his Engagements with the
Mexicans, and left to his new Friend, Xicotencal,
the Care of bringing up the reſt of the Tlafcalan
Forces. After having drawn up his Men, he num-
bered four hundred and twenty Spaniards, including
the Officers, and feventeen Horfe. The Foot, for
the moſt part, were armed with Pikes, Swords,
and Targets, fome Croſs-Bows, and a few Fire-
Arms; for the want of Powder obliged them to
leave the reft with Magifcatzin. The Army march-
ed with the Acclamations of the People; the Tlaf-
calan Soldiers fhewed a Chearfulneſs which prefaged
Victory, and were all infpired with the Defire of
Revenge. They halted that Day in a Village of
the Enemy's, three Leagues from Tlafeala, and five
from Tepeaca, the capital Town, which gave the
Name to the Province. On the firft Sight of the
Army, the Inhabitants of the Village fled, and the
advanced Guard could only take fix or feven Pea-
fants, who met with good Treatment that Night
among
208
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
among the Spaniards, much againſt the Will of the
Tlafcalans, who would have given them a different
Entertainment. In the Morning the General ordered
them to be brought before him, and encouraging
them by fome Prefents, fet them at Liberty, order-
ing them, for the Good of their Country, to ac-
quaint the Caziques and principal Men of Tepeaca,
That he was come with an Army to revenge the
Death of thofe Spaniards, whom they had fo treache-
roufly killed; as likewiſe their Revolt, contrary to
the Obedience they had fworn to the King; but that,
nevertheless, if they would take up Arms against the
Mexicans, in which they should be affifted both by
the Spaniards and Tlafcalans, he would grant a ge-
neral Pardon, and receive them into his Friendſhip,
freeing them from the Misfortunes of a War which
justly threatened them, and in which he should be
obliged to treat them with the utmost Rigour.
THE Indians departed with this Meffage, and
fome friendly Affurances which Marina and Aguilar
gave them, encouraging them to return without
any Fear, tho' the Propofals of Peace fhould be
rejected; and accordingly they returned the next
Day accompanied by two Mexicans, who came in
the Nature of Spies, left the Tepeacans ſhould
make any Alteration in the Expreffions of their Re-
fufal, which was rude and infolent, viz. "That
"they did not defire Peace, and would not long
"delay to take the Field in Search of their Ene-
"mies, whom they would carry bound to the Altars
" of their Gods." To which they added other in-
jurious Terms and Threats, as People who depend-
ed upon the Numbers of their Troops. But Cortes,
not fatisfied with this Anfwer, made them a fecond
Offer for his greater Juftification; wherein he
pro-
teſted, "That if they did not accept the Condi-
"tions he propofed, he would deftroy them with
"Fire
Book V.
Conquest of Mexico.
269
•
"Fire and Sword as Traytors to the King, and all
"who ſurvived fhould be Slaves to the Conque-
"rors." This the Interpreters notified to the En-
voys, and alſo gave them a Copy of the fame in
Writing; not that they could read it, but that ſo
fevere a Meffage committed to Paper, might re-
double their Fear: For, as they greatly wondered
at the Myſtery of Writing, and thought it alto-
gether fupernatural for the Spaniards to talk and
underſtand each other at a Diftance, Cortes had a
Mind to ftrike the Eye with that which fo much
furprized them, and to give them Terror by the
Way of Wonder. But this Artifice ferved to little
Purpoſe; for the fecond Anſwer was more infolent
than the firſt, and at the fame time came an Ac-
count, that the Enemy's Army was marching with
great Diligence. Hernan Cortes refolved to meet
them, and fo foon as he had put his Men in order,
began his March without ftaying either to inftruct
or animate them; for the Spaniards were well ac-
quainted with the Indian manner of Fighting, and
the Tlafcalans were fo defirous to engage, that the
greateſt Difficulty was to hinder them from falling
on.
THE Enemy lay in Ambush in fome Fields of
Maiz, which grows very thick in that fertile Coun-
try, and might have turned to their Advantage,
had they uſed more Precaution; but their own
natural Impatience difcovered them at a Diſtance, and
the Van-Guard fent the General an Account of it
fo ſeaſonably, that they had Time to prepare, and
drew near the Ambufcade in good Order, tho
feemingly after a careleſs manner.
CORTES found it neceffary to extend his Bata-
lions, in order to fecure his Rear, after which he
began the Engagement; and the Mexicans, who
were placed in the Van, found themſelves attacked
VOL. II.
P
210
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
on all Sides juſt as they were preparing to cut off
their Enemy's Retreat. The very firft Charge put
them into Confufion, and all who could not fave
themſelves by Flight, were cut to pieces. Cortes
continued advancing in good Order, and as the
Arrows and miffive Weapons of the Indians loft
their Force among the Canes of Maiz, the Spani-
ards made a terrible Slaughter with their Swords
and Pikes. The Enemies rallied, and ſtood a
fecond Attack with the utmoft Obftinacy; notwith-
ſtanding which, Victory quickly declared for the
Spaniards; for the Mexicans gave Way, and quit-
ted not only the Field, but the whole Country,
feeking Refuge among fome others of their Con-
federates; the Tepeacans followed their Example, re-
tiring in the fame Diſorder, and were fo intimi-
dated, that the very fame Night they fent fome
Deputies, and offered to furrender their City beg-
ging Quarter, and abandoning themfelves to the
Diſcretion and Clemency of the Conqueror.
In this Engagement the Enemy loft the greateſt
Part of their Troops, Abundance were taken Pri-
foners, and the Booty was very confiderable. The
Thaſcalans behaved themſelves valiantly, and, what
was more extraordinary, were fo obfervant of Or-
ders, and fo much better difciplined than formerly,
that they only loft two or three Men. The Spani-
ards loft one Horſe, and were fome of them wound-
ed, but fo flightly that they did not quit their
Poſt: The Day following, Cortes marched into the
City, and both the Civil and Military Officers,
with all the common People, prefented themfelves
before him without Arms, appearing like Criminals,
and acknowledging their Guilt both by their Looks
and Silence,
WHEN they drew near, they humbled themfelves
before him with their Faces to the very Ground,
and
Book V.
211
Conquest of MEXICO.
and Cortes was obliged to encourage them, before
they had the Boldnefs to lift up their Eyes. He
ordered his Interpreters to proclaim King Charles.
with a loud Voice, and a general Pardon in his
Name; which was no focner done, than the Indians
laid aſide their Fear, and both by Words and Ac-
tions declared their Joy. The Tlafcalans were or-
dered to quarter without the Town, as having been
more accuſtomed to treat their Enemies ill, than to
obey Orders. Hernan Cortes and the Spaniards
lodged in the City with all the Caution that was
neceffary, till they were fully convinced of the Sin-
cerity of the Indians; for in reality the Mexicans
had puſhed them on to murder the Spaniards, and
afterwards to take up Arms.
THE People of Tepeaca were now fo mortified
for having put themfelves a fecond time under the
intolerable Yoke of the Mexicans, who, tho' they
came as Friends, ufurped a Power over their E-
ftates, their Honours, and their very Lives, that
they requeſted Cortes to take their City under his
Protection; of which Opportunity he made ufe, to
build a Fortrefs in the Place, in order to keep them
in Obedience; but his chief View was to fecure the
Paffage to Vera-Cruz, for which this Place lay very
convenient, and being naturally ftrong, was eafily
made defenfible by Art. They drew a Trench
round the City, which they palifadoed, inclofing
thofe Parts of the Hill where it was of eafieft Ac-
cefs, and in the higheſt Part they raiſed a Work of
fome Strength like a Caftle, which was eſteemed a
fufficient Security against any Accident that could
happen in the Wars of that Country. The Work
was fo vigorously plyed by the Inhabitants, and their
Neighbours, that they put it in a Condition of Defence
in few Days. Cortes left there a Garriſon of fome
Spanish Soldiers, calling it Segura de la Frontera;
P 2
and
1
Book V.
212
The HISTORY of the
and this was the fecond Settlement of the Spaniards
in the Mexican Empire.
Bur first, that they might be the leſs embaraffed
in this Work, they fent all their Priſoners under a
ſtrong Guard to Tlafcala, to be fold for Slaves; a
Piece of Inhumanity, which was begun in the
Iflands, to ftrike a Terror into the rebel Indians.
We do not mention this, as if its having been prac-
tifed before were any Juftification of it; on the
contrary, we think him who imitates a bad Ac-
tion, as blameable as the Man who firſt ſet the
Example.
BUT it was not long before the Emperor put a
Stop to this Abufe, with a fevere Reprimand, not-
withſtanding it was reprefented to him in the moſt
favourable Light, and ſupported by all the Argu-
ments that could poffibly be urged, to prove Sla-
very among Chriftians lawful. It was a Point
which occafioned long Difputes, but this truly re-
ligious and compaffionate Prince, leaving Contro-
verfies to Divines, ordered the Indians to be fet at
Liberty, whenever the Law of Arms would per-
mit it; that in the mean time, they ſhould be
treated as Priſoners of War, and not as Slaves.
A Refolution worthy of a great King, wherein
he equally diſplayed his Prudence and his Piety;
for as it would not have confifted with good Poli-
ticks to leffen the Number of his Subjects by aug-
menting that of his Slaves, fo neither would it be-
come the Catholick Religon, by permitting the Ufe
of Chains and Whips, to difcredit a Cauſe ſo
ftrongly fupported by Reafon.
CHAP.
1
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
213
CHAP. IV.
Hernan Cortes fends feveral Captains to re-
duce fome rebellious Towns, and goes him-
Jelf to Guacachula against an Army of
Mexicans drawn together to defend their
Frontiers.
THE
HE Spaniards had not long taken up their
Quarters in Tepeaca, when Xicotencal arrived
with the reſt of his Troops, which, as fome fay, in-
creaſed the Auxiliary Army of the Tlafcalans to Fifty
thouſand Men. It was neceffary, in order to quiet
the Minds of the Tepeacans, who were jealous of fuch
a Neighbourhood, to give the Troops Employment;
and Hernan Cortes, knowing that three or four
Places of that Province ſupported by the Mexicans,
held out againſt him, fent feveral Captains, attend-
ed each of them by twenty or thirty Spaniards, and
a confiderable Body of Tlafcalans, with Orders to
endeavour the Reduction of the Rebels by gentle
Means, and if theſe proved ineffectual, to chaſtiſe
their Obftinacy. They met with Refiftance from
all, and were obliged to make ufe of Force, but
compaffed their Deſign without the Lofs of a Man,
and the Captains returned victorious, having fub-
jected the rebel Towns, and overthrown the Mexi-
cans, who being broken and terrified, fted to the
other Side of the Mountains. The Booty they
gained in the Chace of their Enemies, and in the
feditious Towns, was very rich and abundant in all
kinds. The Prifoners exceeded the Number of the
Conquerors; 'tis faid they made above two Thou
fand in the Town of Tecamachalco, where the
Puniſhment fell heavy, that being the Place where
P 3
the
214
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
the Spaniards were murdered; and now they were
no longer called Prifoners, but Captives, till being
expoſed to Sale, they loft that Name, and were
delivered over into Perfonal Slavery, by receiving
in their Faces the cruel Marks of a miferable Ser-
vitude.
ABOUT this Time, according to the Accounts
they had fome little while after, died the Emperor
who fucceeded Motezuma, who, as we have ſaid,
was called Quetlavace, Lord of Iztapalapa; upon
which the Electors affembled, and conferred the
Inveftiture of the Empire on Guatimozin, Nephew
and Son-in-law to Motezuma. He was a young
Man about twenty-five Years old, of fo much
Spirit and Vigilance, that, contrary to the manner
of his Predeceffor, he intirely gave himſelf up to
the Care of the Publick, being defirous immedi-
ately to fhew the Advantages of Government when
placed in proper Hands. He knew what the Spa-
niards were doing in the Province of Tepeaca, and
foreſeeing the Defigns they might form when af
fifted by the united Forces of the Tlafcalans, and
other neighbouring Provinces, he began to have
thoſe reaſonable Apprehenfions which are neceffary
to prudent Meaſures.
He made thofe Difpofitions which greatly re-
commended the Beginnings of his Reign; he en-
couraged the Soldiers with Rewards and Privileges,
and gained the Applauſe of the People, by freeing
them from all Tributes fo long as the War fhould
laft. He ingratiated himſelf with the Nobility, by
admitting them into his Prefence, and by modera-
ting that Exceſs of Adoration to which his Prede-
ceffors Endeavoured to raiſe the Refpect of the
People. He made Prefents to the Caziques on the
Frontiers, exhorting them to Fidelity, and the De-
fence of their Governments; and that they might
not
Book V.
215
Conquest of MEXICO.
not have Reaſon to complain, that he left the
whole Load of the War upon them, he fent an
Army of thirty Thouſand Men for their Support
and Encouragement. But notwithſtanding thefe
Preparations of the Mexican Emperor, thofe who
are envious of the Glory of our Nation, are fo
void of Shame, as to maintain that we engaged
with Brutes, void of Reafon, who only affembled
to give way to the Wiles and Artifices, rather than
the Courage and Conftancy of the Spaniards.
CORTES received an Account that this Army
was upon the Frontiers, which was confirmed by
three or four Nobles, fent by the Cazique of Gua-
cachula, a populous warlike City, fituate on the
Road to Mexico, and a Place which the new Em-
peror looked on as one of the Ramparts of his
Empire. They came to requeft Succour againſt
the Mexicans, complaining of their Violences and
Oppreffions, and offering to take up Arms againſt
them fo foon as the Spaniards fhould come within
Sight of the Town. They made the Undertaking
appear eafy and juft, faying, That their Cazique
ought to be affifted as a Vaffal of the King of Spain,
being one of thoſe who promifed Obedience to
him in the Affembly of the Nobility called toge-
ther by the Orders of Motezuma. Cortes afked
them, What Force the Enemy had in thoſe Parts ?
They told him, twenty Thoufand in the Diſtrict of
their City, and ten Thouſand more in another City
called rzucan, four Leagues from them; but that
in Guacachula, and its Dependencies, they could
raiſe a very confiderable Number of Men, coura-
geous and provoked, who would be glad of the
Opportunity to take up Arms. Cortes examined
them very carefully, afking divers Queftions, that
he might difcover the Intentions of their Cazique,
and they gave fo good an Account of themſelves,
P 4
as
216
The HISTORY of the Book V.
as fully perfuaded him of their Sincerity: and tho
he fhould have had fome remaining Sufpicion, he
would at that Time have diffembled it; for in cafe
the Treaty could not have been depended on, it
was nevertheleſs neceffary to drive away the Enemy,
and fubject the Frontier Towns, before the Mexi-
ças came with a greater Force to defend them.
CORTES applied himſelf fo earneſtly to this En-
terprize, that the very fame Day he formed an
Army of Three hundred Spaniards, Twelve or
Thirteen Horſe, and above thirty Thoufand Tlaf-
çalans, under the Command of Colonel Chriſtopher
de Olid; and after he had made this Difpofition, hẹ
put his Deſign in Execution with ſo much Expedi-
tion, that the Army marched next Morning, Olid
carried the Envoys fent from Guacachula with
him, and had Orders to advance with Circumfpec-
tion, till de came near the City; and in cafe he
fufpected any Treachery, to endeavour to engage
the Mexicans in fome advantageous Poft, and break
them before he attacked the Town,
THEY all marched on very chearful and coura-
geous, till at fix Leagues from Tepeaca, and almoft
at the fame Diſtance from Gaucachula, (where the
Army made a Halt) they found it rumoured among
the Peafants of the Country, but without any good
Foundation, that the Emperor of Mexico was on
the March with his whole Force to relieve thofe
Cities. The Soldiers of Narvaez believed the Re-
port, and fo multiplied the Enemy's Forces in
their Imagination, that without hearkening to Rea-
fon, or obeying Orders, they plainly and infolently
protefted, that they would march no farther: So
that Chriftopher de Olid grew angry, and in a con-
temptuous manner bid them return, threatening
them with the Difpleaſure of Cortes, fince they
were not touched with the Diſhonour of their Re-
treat
Book V.
217
Conqueft of MEXICO.
treat: But as he was preparing to profecute his
March without them, there happened a new Ac-
cident, which, if it did not altogether ſhake his
Conftancy, yet rifqued the Succefs of the Expedi-
tion.
THEY faw feveral Bodies of armed Men defcend-
ing from the Tops of the neighbouring Mountains,
and advancing with more than ordinary Diligence;
and Christopher de Olid believing the Mexicans were
coming to attack him, he immediately drew up his
Men in Order: In which he acted rightly, for excef-
five Care never yet did Hurt in an Army. But fome
Horfe, whom he had fent before to gain Intel-
ligence, returned with an Account, That it was
the Cazique of Guaxozingo, with others of his con-
federate Caziques, who were come to affift the
Spaniards in their War againſt the Mexicans; who
had already ravaged their Frontiers, and threatened
their Dominions. Upon this, Olid ordered their
Troops to halt, and the Caziques to come before
him; which was prefently done: But that which
ſhould have given them all intire Satisfaction, occa-
fioned a fecond Uneafineſs in the Soldiers; it began
among the Tlafcalans, and prefently infected the
Spaniards: For they both declared, That thofe
People were not to be trufted, that their Friendſhip
was feigned, and that they were fent by the Mexi-
cans, to ferve them, by falling on the Spaniards
during the Engagement. Chriftopher de Olid heard
them, and without inquiring fufficiently into the
Matter, entered too lightly into their Sufpicions,
preſently ſeized the Caziques, and fent them away
to Tepeaca, for Cortes to determine concerning
them: An inconfiderate Action, by which he ran
the Rifque of raiſing a Diſturbance between his own
People, and thoſe who really came as Friends.
The latter however continued in their Poft, notwith-
ſtanding
218
Book V
The HISTORY of the
ftanding they found they were diftrufted, declaring
themſelves fatisfied to have the Matter referred to
Cortes; and the Spaniards did not dare to difturb
them, becauſe they had fent an Account of the Mat-
ter, and were obliged to ſtay for Orders.
THE Priſoners in a very fhort time were brought
before Cortes, complaining with a good deal of Rea-
fon of Christopher de Olid; faying they were not
fo much concerned at the Difgrace offered to their
Perfons, as at the Sufpicion of their Fidelity.
Cortes heard them with great Benignity, and order-
ing their Irons to be taken off, endeavoured to
fatisfy them, and to regain their good Opinion;
for he found in them all the Marks that ufually
diftinguiſh Truth from Deceit. But upon further
Confideration, he found it would be neceffary to
carry on this Enterprize in Perfon; the Diftruſt
which his Indian Allies had of each other, and the
Uneafinefs among the Spaniards, feeming to threaten
fome fatal Event. He prefently prepared for his
Journey, and leaving in Charge with the Magi-
ftrates of Juftice the Government of his new Set-
tlement, he fet out with the Caziques, and a ſmall
Eſcort, with fuch Diligence, and fo eager a Defire
to remove all Impediments to the Undertaking,
that in few Hours he came up with the Army.
Every body was pleaſed with his Prefence; Things
looked after another manner; and the Storm that
was beginning to gather, difperfed. He repri-
manded Chriftopher de Olid, not for fending him
an Account of the Accident, fince he was to near;
but for diſcovering his Jealoufy by the Imprifon-
ment of the Caziques. And having joined all the
Forces, without any further Delay he marched on
to Guacachula, ordering the Envoys from that City
to go and inform their Cazique, where he was,
and what Forces he had brought along with him;
not
Book V.
Conqueft of MEXICO.
219
not that he ſtood in need of any Offers from that
Cazique, but that he might not treat thoſe as Ene-
mies, whom he defired by gentle Means to reduce,
and preferve in his Intereſt.
THE Mexicans were pofted on the farther Side
of the City; but on the first Notice from their
Centinels, they advanced with ſo much Speed, that
by the time the Spaniards came within Mufquet-
fhot, they had formed their Army, and poffeffed
themſelves of the Road, with an Intention to try
their Strength under Cover of the Town: The
Victory was vigorously difputed, the Mexicans not
only defending themſelves, but advancing upon
their Enemies, with all the Signs of a Refolution
to maintain their Ground to the utmoft: When the
Cazique of Guacachula laid hold of this Occafion,
to give a Proof of his Fidelity, falling on the Rear,
and at the fame time affaulting them from the
Walls with fuch good Order and Bravery, as much
facilitated the Victory: And in a little more than
half an Hour the Mexicans were intirely defeated,
there being but few who were not either killed or
wounded.
HERNAN CORTES quartered his Spaniards within
the City; and without the Walls, the Tlafcalans
with the reft of the Confederates, whofe Number
continually increaſed: for on the Report of his
carrying on that War in Perfon, feveral other
Caziques, who had ſubmitted to the King of Spain,
came with their Troops to ferve under is Com-
mand; and his Army was fo much augmented,
that, according to his own Relation, he came to
Guacachula with above one Hundred and twenty
Thouſand Men. He thanked the Cazique, and
the Soldiers of the Country, giving them intirely
the Glory of the Succefs; and they in Return of
fered to march with him to Yzucan, not without
an
220
The HISTORY of the Book V
an Opinion of their being neceffary, on account of
the Knowledge they had of the Country, and the
Proofs they had given of their Valour. The Mexi-
cans had in that Town, as the Cazique reported,
above ten Thouſand Men in Garrifon, befides thofe
who had eſcaped from the Battle. The Inhabitants,
with all the Peafants of the District, were under
a Neceffity of declaring againſt the Spaniards. The
Place was ftrong by Nature, and improved by
Walls and Ravelines, which ftopped the Paffages
between the Mountains; before it ran a River,
which our Army was obliged to paſs: and News
came, that the Enemy had broken the Bridge, in
order to difpute the Paffage. All theſe Circum-
ftances were fufficient to make them look upon
this Enterprize as no inconfiderable one, and ad-
vance with their whole Force.
CHRISTOPHER DE OLID was commanded with
the Van-guard to pass the River, and tho' he was
oppofed by the greateſt Part of the Enemy's Troops,
he threw himſelf into the Water, and gained the
oppofite Shore; advancing with ſo much Refolu-
tion, and fo little Fear of Danger, that they killed
his Horfe under him, and wounded him in the
Thigh; but the Enemy fled to the City, which
they thought to defend; for they had turned out
all the ufelefs Men, Women, and Children, re-
ferving three Thouſand refolute Peaſants, and Pro-
vifions for many Days. The Condition of the
Walls, and the Number of the Defendants, ftruck
the Eyes of the Befiegers, and made them con-
clude, that the Affault would coft them a great
many Lives; but the Army had ſcarce paffed the
River, and received Orders for the Attack, when
at once the Cries of the Enemy ceaſed, and the
whole Garrifon difappeared. Cortes might have
fufpected fome Stratagem, if at the fame time
he
Book V.
221
Conquest of MEXICO.
1
he had not diſcovered the Flight of the Mexicans
towards the Mountains; he detached fome Com-
panies of Spaniards, and the greateſt Part of the
Tlafcalans to purſue them; and notwithſtanding
the Enemy had the Steepnefs of the Hills to affift
them, they were broken in fo fmall a Time, that
they ſcarce had Leifure to face about. The City
was fo intirely forfaken by the Inhabitants, that
they only found three or four of them among the
Priſoners, by whofe Means Cortes endeavoured to
bring back the reft, fending them to the Woods,"
whither the People were retired with their Families,
to offer them a Pardon in the Name of the King,
and good Treatment to all ſuch as would return to
their Houſes; which fo prevailed, that moſt laid
hold of the Opportunity, and returned the fame.
Day: Cortes ftayed there two or three Days, that
they might recover from their Fears, and fubmit,
after the Example of Guacachula. At the, fame
time he difmiffed the Troops of the Caziques who
were in Amity with him, dividing with them the
Spoil of both Actions, and then returned to Te-
peaca with the Spaniards and Tlaſcalans; having
freed the Frontiers from the Mexican Troops, re-
duced thofe Cities of Importance to his Obedience,
experienced the Affection of his Confederates, and
diſappointed the new Emperor of Mexico in his
firſt Deſigns; which are generally obferved as
Prognofticks of the reft of a new Reign, and either
animate, or difcourage the Subjects, according to
their good or ill Succefs.
BERNAL DIAZ DEL CASTILLO will not allow
that Cortes was in this Expedition; but it may be
doubted, whether his View in denying it, be not
to excufe himſelf for having ſtayed in Segura de la
Frontera, as he confeffes a little before; or elſe he
has been carried away by his Inclination to contra-
dict
222
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
dict Francifco Lopez de Gomara, in this, as he doth
in every thing elfe: For all other Writers affirm
what we relate. And Hernan Cortes himſelf in
his Letter to the Emperor, dated the 30th of
October 1520. declares the Motives which obli-
ged him to follow the Army. I am forry there is
any Occafion to contradict the Author whom I fol-
low; but it would have been a Fault inconfiftent
with the Care of Cortes, if he had not appeared in
Perfon with the Troops, at a Time when there
were fuch Jealoufies among his own Soldiers, fuch
Complaints among his Confederates, and fo much
Infolence in the Troops of Narvaez; when Chri-
ftopher de Olid himſelf, who commanded them, in-
clined to countenance their Sufpicions; and all to-
gether endangered the Succefs of fo important an
Affair. Bernal Diaz muſt excuſe me; he may
have wrote according to his Opinion in this Cafe:
notwithſtanding which, I muft believe it more
likely for him to forget, than that fo much Neg-
lect could justly be imputed to a Man of his Ge-
neral's Vigilance.
CHAP. V.
Hernan Cortes makes fome Preparations for
the Enterprize of Mexico; he accidentally
receives à Reinforcement of Spaniards, re-
a
turns to Tlafcala, and finds Magifcatzin
dead.
ORTES was no fooner arrived at Tepeaca,
CORTES Masegura de la but he
now called Segura de la Frontera, but he
received an Account that his Friend Magifcatzin
was
Book V.
Conqueft of MEXICO.
223
was at the point of Death, which gave him great
Concern for the extraordinary Affection of that
Senator for him, had unavoidably engaged him to
make it reciprocal; and defiring now to give him
the laſt Proof of his Friendſhip, he immediately
diſpatched Father Bartolomé de Olmedo to take care
of his Soul, by endeavouring to bring him into the
Catholick Church. When this Religious Man came
to him, he was almoſt ſpent with the Violence of
his Diftemper, but very fenfible, and well difpofed
to receive new Impreffions; for he was diſpleaſed
with his own Religious Rites, and the Multiplicity
of his Gods; and found fewer Objections againſt
the Religion of the Spaniards, as being more con-
formable to natural Reaſon, and he feemed to be
blind rather for want of Light, than through any
Defect in his Eyes. Father Bartolomè had but little
Trouble in perfuading him, becauſe he found him
fenfible of his Errors, and defirous to be fet right:
So that he had only Occafion to inſtruct him, and
uſe fome Exhortations, in order to touch his Heart,
and beget a Tranquillity in his Soul. In a very
little Time he with great Earneftnefs defired Bap-
tiſm, and received it with intire Faith, beftowing
the fmall Remainder of his Life in fervent Reflec-
tions on his Happineſs, and in exhorting his Sons
to quit their Idolatry, and obey his Friend Hernan
Cortes, endeavouring by all means the Preſervation
of the Spaniards, which they fhould look upon as
their own Intereft, for that he forefaw they would
gain the Dominion of thofe Countries. Perhaps
he was infpired, tho' he might likewife, from what
had happened, have formed an Opinion which Peo-
ple afterwards improved into a Prophecy. There
is no Doubt but God rewarded him with that extra-
ordinary Call and Difpofition of Mind, for what he
had acted in favour of the Chriftians, as he had
made
224
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
made him the principal Inftrument of thoſe fre-
quent Succours, for which they ſtood indebted to the
Republick of Tlafcala. He was a Man of moral
Virtues, and of fo great a Capacity, that he came
to be the firſt Man of the Senate, and in a manner
governed all their Refolutions: for all gave way to
his Authority, and good Underſtanding; and he
knew how to manage his Credit with all the Mode-
ration becoming a Member of that free State.
Hernan Cortes was extremely concerned at his Death,
and in a manner inconfolable for the Lofs, not only
of a Friend, but an able Director of his Defigns,
and one who had perfectly eſtabliſhed him in the
Friendſhip and Refpect of the whole Republick.
But Heaven, which always feem'd careful to fup-
port the General under his Misfortunes, favoured
him at that Time with a Reinforcement, which
mitigated his Grief, and raiſed his Hopes.
A SHIP of moderate Burden arrived at St. Juan
de Ulua, and brought thirteen Spanish Soldiers, two
Horſes, and fome Proviſions and Ammunition,
which Diego Velafquez fent to Pamphilo de Narvaez,
taking it for granted, that all the Conqueſts in that
Country were his own, and the Troops of Cortes
at his Devotion. Their Commander was Pedro de
Barba, the fame who was Governor of the Havana,
when Hernan Cortes failed from the Ifle of Cuba,
having by his Friendship efcaped the laft Snares
that were laid to ftop his Voyage. Pedro Cavallero,
who commanded on the Coaſt, no fooner diſcover-
ed the Veffel, but he went out in a Boat to recon-
noitre: He faluted the new Comers with great Ci-
vility, and having found, by the very reſpectfuk
Manner with which Pedro de Barba inquired after
Pamphilo de Narvaez, the Defign of their coming,
anfwered him without the leaft Hefitation, That he
was not only in good Health, but in great Profperity,
all
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
225
all thofe Countries having fubmitted to him; and that
Cortes, with fome of his People, was fled to the
Mountains. If this Turn can't be defended from
the Reproach of being an Untruth, yet at leaſt
Cavallero deferves to be commended for his Readi-
nefs of Thought, which induced them to land with-
out the leaſt Diſtruſt, and go to Vera-Cruz, where
they diſcovered the Deceit, and found themfelves
Prifoners to Cortes; Pedro de Barba commending
the Stratagem of Cavallero: for in reality he was
not forry to find his Friend in fo good a Condi-
tion.
THEY were carried up to Segura de la Frontera,
and Hernan Cortes fhewed a particular Satisfaction
at the happy Arrival of more Spaniards, with the
agreeable Circumftance of receiving this Succour
from the Hands of his Enemy. He treated Pedro
de Barba very kindly, and gave him a Company
of Crofs-Bows, upon the Confidence he had in his
Friendſhip: He alfo diftributed fome Gifts among
the Soldiers, upon which they agreed to ferve under
his Command. He afterwards read the Letter
privately which Pedro de Barba brought for Nar-
vaez. In which Diego Velasquez, fuppofing him
Maſter of all thofe Conquefts, gave him Orders to
maintain himſelf there at all Adventures; for which
end he promiſed him very powerful Succours : And
laftly, told him, that if Cortes was not dead, he
fhould immediately fend him away with a fufficient.
Guard; for that he had received exprefs Orders
from the Biſhop of Burgos to fend him Prifoner to
Court: And the Confequence of this Order would
have been an Arreft without Appeal, had the Af-
fair been left to that Prelate, who was an Enemy
to Cortes, and who, from the great Pains he
took to favour Diego Velasquez, gave Caufe to fear,
that he meant to make an Example of Cortes in the
VOL. II.
е
moft
1
226
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
1
moft publick manner, and to difguife a particular
Revenge under the Appearance of Juſtice. About
eight Days after arrived a fecond Veffel with another
Reinforcement for Pamphilo de Narvaez, which
Pedro Cavallero feized after the fame manner: She
brought eight Soldiers and a Mare, with a con-
fiderable Quantity of Arms and Ammunition, un-
der the Command of Captain Rodrigo Morejon de
Lobera; they all immediately went to Segura, and
lifted themſelves as the others had done before
them: Theſe Succours came by a Way fo un-
looked for, that Hernan Cortes confidered them as
good Omens, and Forerunners of future Succefs.
But at the fame time his Thoughts were employ-
ed about the Preparations for his Enterprize. He
had already refolved upon the Conqueft of Mexico;
and the great Numbers of Allies, by which he
found himſelf fupported in his laft Expedition,
confirmed his Refolution: But the Paffage of the
Lake was the grand and unavoidable Difficulty, and
gave him great Concern; for after the Enemy had
once found out the Secret of breaking the Bridges
of the Cauſeways, there was no depending upon
portable Bridges, which were only to be uſed when
they were pinched in Time; wherefore he began
to think of building twelve or thirteen Brigantines,
which ſhould be able to refift the Indian Canoes,
and tranfport his Troops to the City; and theſe he
propofed to carry in Pieces on the Shoulders of
the Indian Tamenes for fourteen or fifteen Leagues
at leaſt of very bad Way over the Mountains of
Tlafeala, to a River near the Lake. He had a very
lively Imagination, and was naturally an Enemy to
thofe lazy Spirits who fancy difficult Things to be
impoffible.
He communicated his Thoughts to Martin Lo-
pez, on whofe Ingenuity and great Abilities he de-
pended
ף
Conquest of MEXICO.
227
Book V.
pended for the compaffing this important Deſign;
and finding he did not only approve of it, but
alfo undertook to execute it with Eafe, he fent
him before to Tlafcala, with all the Spanish Soldiers,
who had any Skill in the Carpenter's Trade, in or-
der to begin the Work, with a fufficient Number
of Indians to cut Wood, or do any other Service for
which there might be Occafion. At the fame time
he ordered the Iron-work and Rigging, and what-
ever had been preferved out of the Ships that were
funk, to be brought up from Vera-Cruz; and
having obferved, that thofe Mountains produced
Trees which afford a kind of Rofin, he drew out
ſuch a Quantity as was neceffary for the careening
of his Barks.
He was in want of Powder, but foon found
Means to make very good; fending to fearch for
Sulphur, (of whofe Ufe the Indians were utterly
ignorant) in the Volcano difcovered by Diego de
Ordaz, for he believed they could not fail of find-
ing it there; and fome Spanish Soldiers among
whom they name Juan de Laet à Montano, and à
Mefa, belonging to the Artillery, offered themſelves
for the Service, and in fine returned with as much
Sulphur, as was wanted. Cortes was every-where,
and over-faw all that was done; fo far from being
fatigued, that the Pains he took rather feemed a
Refreſhment.
WHEN this Affair was over, he began to think
of returning to Tlafcala, to haften as much as he
could the Preparations for his Expedition; and be-
fore he went, he left his Inftructions with the new
Council of Segura, and appointed Captain Francifco
de Orozco Commander of the Garrifon, with about
twenty Spanish Soldiers, and the Militia of the
Country at his Difpofal.
Q &
HE
228
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
He refolved to enter the City in Mourning for
the Death of Magifcatzin, for which End both he
and his Captains covered their Arms with the
Manufacture of the Country dyed black. They
made their Entry without any other Pomp, than
that of good Order, and profound Silence obſerved
among the Soldiers, which helped to declare their
General's Grief. Both Nobles and Commonalty
received this Demonftration of Concern with great
Applaufe; for they all refpected the Deceafed as
the Father of their Country: and tho' there is no
Doubt, but that Cortes was fincerely affected with
the Lofs, which he very often lamented, and had
Reaſon fo to do, yet it is likely he had a farther
View in putting on Mourning, which was to gain
the Affections of the People.
THE Senate had not filled up the Place of Ma-
gifcatzin, (who, as one of the Caziques of the Repub-
lick, had governed the principal Divifion of the
City) that Cortes might elect a Perfon to fucceed
him, or that they might act according to his Opi-
nion in their Choice: Cortes, confidering the Re-
ſpect due to the Memory of the Deceaſed, recom-
mended his eldeft Son, and fo ordered Matters,
that he was unanimously chofen. He was a young
Man of Judgment and Courage, and of fo much
Spirit, that he mounted the Tribunal without Sur-
prize, or being at a Lofs in Matters of Govern-
ment; and finally, he gave fuch Proofs of his Ca-
pacity in the moſt effential Point, that in a little
time he earneſtly defired Baptiſm, and received it
with publick Solemnity, taking upon him the
Name of Don Lorenzo de Magifcatzin: a wonder-
ful Effect of the Arguments he had heard Father
Bartolomé de Olmedo employ in the Converfion of
his Father, which having meditated and digefted,
he came by degrees to a Senfe of his Error. At
this time alfo the Cazique of rzucan was baptized,
Book V.
229
Conquest of MEXICO.
a Youth who came to Tlafcala with the Enfigns of
his new Command, and to thank Cortes for having
determined a Suit in his Favour, which had been
commenced againſt him by his Relations concern-
ing the Inheritance of his Father. For now every
one confulted Cortes, both Caziques and particular
Perfons referring all their Differences to him, and
receiving his Decifions as inviolable Laws. So
much did they reſpect him, and fo great an Opinion
had they of his Equity.
THE Noife which theſe Converſions made in the
Town, awakened old Xicotencal, who tho' dif-
fatisfied with the Abfurdities of Gentilifm, was
grown old in Error, and had a Levity in his Dif
pofition, which would not let him adhere to any
Refolution; a Failing natural to old Age: But the
Example of Magifcatzin, a Man equal to him in
Authority, and his Converfion to the Catholick
Religion at the Point of Death, had fuch an Effect
as to open the Eyes of his Underſtanding, and
induce him to receive Baptifm with a publick
Deteftation of his Errors. In Truth it does not ap
pear, that the Goſpel could poffibly have been in
a fairer Way to make a Progrefs in this Country,
the Nobles and wifeft Men of the Republick, whoſe
Opinion governed all the reft, being converted to
the Catholick Faith: But the Circumſtances of theſe
times did not allow the Spaniards to give their Ap-
plication to it. Hernan Cortes was wholly taken up
with making Difpofitions for his Enterprize, Father
Bartolome de Olmedo wanted Fellow-Labourers; and
both were of Opinion, that they could not attempt
introducing Religion with any Succefs, till they had
fubdued the Mexicans, and eſtabliſhed Peace, which
they looked upon as previouſly neceffary to fettle
the warlike Spirits of the Tlafcalans, and fit them for
the Reception of the Goſpel. The great Affair there-
fore was for the prefent laid afide, Examples grew
Q 3
rare
*
230
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
rare, and the People continued in their Idolatry.
'Twas poffible, whilft the Army remained there,
they might have reaped the firſt Fruits at leaſt of
fuch a favourable Opportunity: But the continual
Alarms and Rumours of War at this time poftpo-
ning all Attention to other things, and it fometimes
happening, that the Maxims of Violence are better
attended to, when Reaſon is filent, I don't find
that they made, or even endeavoured any other
Converfions.
CH A P. VỊ.
A fresh Succour of Spanish Soldiers arrives at
the Army. The Men who came with Nar-
vaez,
are importunate for their Difcharge
and Return to Cuba. Hernan Cortes draws
up a fecond Relation of his Expedition,
and dispatches new Envoys to the Emperor
Charles V.
COF
ORTES complained with fome Warmth of
Francifco de Garay, for that knowing very
well the Progreſs he had made in the Empire of
Mexico, he did, notwithſtanding, endeavour to
make a Conqueſt and Settlement in the Province of
Panuco; but fuch a happy Afcendant had the For-
tune of Cortes over that of his Rivals, that as Diego
de Velasquez furniſhed him with Succours the fame
Way by which he intended to deſtroy him, and
fupport Pamphilo de Narvaez, fo the Meaſures
which Garay had taken to ufurp fome Part of his
Government, turned likewife to his Advantage.
We
Book V.
231
Conquest of MEXICO.
We have already related, how Garay was repulſed
from Panuco, when Cortes was with his Troops at
Zempoala; notwithſtanding which, he refolved to
purſue his Enterprize, and had prepared another
Fleet, with a greater Number of Soldiers, com-
manded by all his beſt Officers: But the fecond
Expedition was as unfortunate as the firft; for the
Spaniards were no fooner landed, but they met
with fuch a gallant Reſiſtance from the Indians, that
they were glad to retreat to their Ships in the ut-
moſt Diſorder; and being wholly intent how to
avoid the prefent Danger, put to Sea without
obferving the fame Courfe. They were feparated
for fome Days, and without knowing any thing
of each others Defign, they arrived almoft all at
the fame time on the Coaft of Vera-Cruz, where
they agreed to ferve under Cortes, without any
other Motive than that of his great Reputation.
THIS Succour was looked upon as fent from
Heaven: For tho' it be certain, that the Confufion
and Unfkilfulneſs of the Soldiers and Sailors might
help to diſperſe thefe Veffels, and abandon them
to the Mercy of the Winds, which forced them
on the Coaſt where they were fo much wanted;
yet their coming fo opportunely, and after ſo many
fo
Misfortunes, to augment the Troops of Cortes, is
an Event worthy of particular Reflection; for fuch
a Chain of happy Accidents is not wont to be at-
tributed, or very rarely, to mere Chance.
THE firſt Ship that arrived, was commanded
by Captain Camargo, and had on board fixty Spanish
Soldiers; a little after came another with fifty.
choice Soldiers, and feven Horfes, commanded by
Captain Miguel Diaz de Auz, a Gentleman of Ar-
ragon, who had fo fignalized himfelf on all Occa-
fions, that his Perfon alone was efteemed a very
great Succour; and laftly, tho' fomewhat late, ar-
& 4
rived
232
The HISTORY of the
f
Book V.
rived the Veffel commanded by Captain Ramirez,
with above forty Soldiers, ten Horſes, and great
Abundance of Provifions and Arms. They all
landed, and the firft, without ftaying for the reft,
made the beſt of their way to Tlafcala, leaving an
Example to their Fellows to take the fame Rout,
which they all did with intire Satisfaction. For
the great Advances made by Cortes in New Spain,
had made fuch a Noife over all the Iſlands, that
the Soldiers were eafily led whither they thought
Wealth and Profperity invited them.
THIS Succour confiderably augmented the Num-
ber of the Spaniards, and infpired them with freſh
Hopes: The Soldiers received the New-comers
with Acclamations of Joy; they embraced each
other as Friends of a long Acquaintance, without
any other Tye than that of coming from the fame
Country; and Cortes himself, forgetting the Gra-
vity of a General, was tranfported with Joy; but
at the fame time did not forget to return Thanks
to God, attributing to him, and to the Juftice of
his Caufe, all theſe furprizing Events.
NOTWITHSTANDING this good Fortune, he could
not quiet the Soldiers of Narvaez, who were im-
portunate with him for Leave to return to the Ine
of Cuba; they put him in mind of his Promife,
and he could not deny but that they went upon
the Expedition to Tepeaca on that Condition; for
which Reaſon, he was not willing to enter into
any new Difputes with them, and the rather, be-
cauſe he found his Troops augmented with Soldiers
better difciplined, and did not think it a proper
Time to march at the Head of unwilling Muti-
peers, who would be fure to fhew Uneafinefs on
every Fatigue, and be always railing at the Enter-
prize, pernicious in the Camp, and ufelefs upon
Occafions, deceiving their General with the Ap-
pearance
Book V.
233
Conqueft of MEXICO.
pearance of Soldiers in the Review, and yet of no
Service.
FOR theſe Reaſons therefore he ordered Procla-
mation to be made, That whoever had a Mind to
return home, was free to go, and should be furnished
with Veffels, and every thing else that was neceffary.
The greateſt Part of the Soldiers of Narvaez made
ufe of the Opportunity, but fome ſtayed out of a
Point of Honour. Bernal Diaz takes no Notice of
the Names of thoſe who ſtayed, but tediouſly enu-
merates almoſt all who went, defrauding the firſt
of the Honour that was their Due, and wafting his
Time in difgracing the laft; whereas it would have
been much more reaſonable to have forgotten thoſe
who fhewed fo little Regard to their Reputation :
But what deferves to be remarked, is, that Andres
de Duero, who appeared on ſeveral Occaſions fo
much attached to the Intereft of Cortes, was one of
thoſe who retired; and altho' there be no Account
of the Reaſon of this Separation, we may very well
believe there was but little Sincerity in the Pre-
tences, with which he coloured his Retreat; fince
we find him fhortly after making uſe of all his In-
tereft at the Court in favour of Diego Velasquez.
If there was any Miſunderſtanding between Cortes
and him, which might give Occafion for this.
Breach, Reafon muft have been on Cortes's Side;
it not being likely that it could be pleaded in be-
half of a Man, who fhewed as little Regard to
that, as he did to his Reputation, by not only
leaving his Friend engaged in an Enterprize of fo
much Honour and Danger, but withal taking upon
him a Commiffion by which he was obliged either
bafely to act against his own Sentiments, or to
yield his Underſtanding a Slave to an unreaſonable
Paffion.
HERNAN
234
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
HERNAN CORTES having now got rid of theſe
Mutineers, whom Alvarado had the Care of con-
ducting to the Veffels, began to confider of the
Time neceffary to be employed in building the
Brigantines. He difpatched new Orders to the
Confederates to hold themſelves ready to march
upon the firſt Notice, directing the Quantity of
Proviſions and Arms they were to provide, accord-
ing to the Number of their Troops: And at his
leifure Hours he wrote an Account of all the Par-
ticulars of the Conqueft, to be fent to the Emperor;
defigning to equip a Veffel, and fend new Agents,
who might haften the Diſpatch of the former, or
give him Notice of the Condition his Affairs were
in at the Court of Spain, his Uncertainty therein
being now one of his greateſt Difquiets.
CORTES drew up this Account in Form of a
Letter, and repeating every thing of Importance
in the Diſpatches he fent the Year before by the
Captains Portocarrero and Montexo, he gave his
Majeſty a faithful Relation of all his Adventures,
both profperous and unfortunate, from the time he
marched out of Zempoala, and by his Courage
and Conduct made his triumphant Entry into the
capital City of the Empire, till he was afterwards
forced to retreat to Tlafcala, with confiderable
Lofs. He alſo acquainted him with how much
Security he was able to maintain himſelf in that
Province, together with the Number of Spaniards
that had augmented his Troops, and the great
Confederacies he had made with divers Indian Na-
tions, for renewing the War against the Mexicans.
He expreffed, with a noble and generous Confi-
dence, the Hope he had of reducing to his Ma-
jeſty's Obedience all that new World, whofe Bounds
to the North were unknown even to the Natives.
He inlarged upon the Riches of that Empire, the
Fertility
Book V.
235
Conquest of MEXICO.
Fertility of the Soil, and the Wealth of the feve-
ral Princes. He highly extolled the Valour and
Conftancy of the Spaniards, and the Affection and
Fidelity of the Tlafcalans: With relation to him-
felf, he left it to his Actions to fpeak for him; and
yet, without exceeding the Bounds of Modefty,
he gave fome Strokes to the Reputation of the
Conqueft, that fet in its true Light the Glory of
the Conqueror. He defired fpeedy Juftice againſt
the unfair Proceedings of Diego Velasquez, and
Francifco de Garay; and made preffing Inſtances for
an immediate Succour of Soldiers, Horfes, Arms,
and other warlike Provifions. He reprefented in
yet ſtronger Terms the Neceffity of fending fome
Ecclefiafticks and Regulars of approved Virtue,
to affift Father Olmedo in the Converfion of the
Indians, giving an Account that fome of the Chief
among them were already baptized, and that in
the reft there was fuch a kind of Difpofition to
receive the Truth, as gave great Hopes of its
making a confiderable Progrefs. This was the
Subftance of the Letter he at that time wrote to the
Emperor, laying before his Majefty every thing
that had paffed, without forgetting any confide-
rable Circumſtance; all which he expreffed in pro-
per and well-chofen Terms, according to the Elo-
quence of that Age; and it may be a Queſtion
whether they were not more agreeable than thofe
now in Ufe, to that Character of Nature and Sim-
plicity, which becomes the Style of Letters. At
the fame time it muſt be confeffed, he was fome-
what mistaken in the Names of Towns and Pro-
vinces, which being altogether new, could not be
exactly pronounced, or faithfully rendered upon
Paper.
BERNAL DIAZ DEL CASTILLO reports, that the
General fent theſe Diſpatches by the Captains Alonzo
de
236
The HISTORY of the
'Book V.
de Mendoza, and Diego de Ordaz; and tho' Antonio
de Herrera mentions only the firft, it is not probable
that he would entruſt an Affair of fo much Confe-
quence to one Perfon alone, when Prudence re-
quired him to provide againſt the Accidents of fo
long a Voyage. His private Inftructions to them.
were, That before they discovered their Commiſſion, or
made any Declaration of their being ſent by him, they
fbould first find out his Father, and the two Agents
who were fent the Year before; and jointly carry
on their Negotiation, according as the Condition of
his Affairs fhould require. He remitted alfo a fecond
Prefent for the Emperor, confifting of Gold and
other Curiofities which had been preferved at Tlaf
cala, to which the Soldiers alfo contributed, and
were upon this Occafion very liberal of their little
Subſtance; adding moreover the Booty acquired in
the Expeditions of Tepeaca and Guacachula: A Pre-
fent lefs rich than the former, but more deferving
to be prized, as being amaffed in the midſt of their
Difgraces, and confequently to be regarded as the
Remains after thofe Loffes whereof Cortes had given
a faithful Account in his Letter.
THE General thought it proper at the fame time,
that the two Councils of Vera-Cruz and Segura de
la Frontera fhould write to his Majefty, as being
the Government in that Country. They in their
Letters folicited for the fame Affiftance, declaring,
That they thought themselves bound in Duty to repre-
fent to bis Majesty, how much it imported to main-
tain Hernan Cortes in his Poft of Captain-General,
for as the Beginning of this great Work was wholly
owing to bis Valour and Conduct, it would be no
eafy Matter to find any other Head or Hands capable
of bringing it to Perfection: And in this they fincerely
delivered their Opinions, and what they thought
moft
Book V.
237
Conquest of MEXICO.
ture.
moſt advantageous for the Service in that Conjunc-
Bernal Diaz faith, that Hernan Cortes faw
thofe Letters, infinuating as if he had defired that
Solicitation in his Favour: It is very probable he
did fee them, but it is likewife certain, that thofe
Letters contained fuch Truths as did not ftand in
need of any Flattery or Exaggeration. Diaz com-
plains likewife, that the Soldiers were not per-
mitted to write apart in the Name of their whole
Corps, not that he differed in his Sentiments from
the Councils (for he declares the contrary more
than once); but as the Subject-matter was the Pre-
fervation of his. General, he defired to join his Opi-
nion with the reft, and to give him his Affiftance
on this Occafion, as in Truth he bravely did in
War. Let it pafs for Ambition of Glory, a Vice,
that ought to be pardoned in Men of Merit, and
appears very much like Virtue in a Soldier.
ORDAZ and Mendoza embarked on Board one
of the Veffels, which arrived a little before at
Vera-Cruz, with every Thing neceffary for fuch a
Voyage; and foon after Cortes refolved to freight
another Veffel, and difpatch the Captains Alonzo
Davila and Francifco Alvarez Chico with Letters
for the Regulars of St. Jerome, who prefided in the
Royal Audience of Santo Domingo, the only one at
that time in thofe Countries, and whofe Jurifdic-
tion extended over all the Iſlands, as well as the
new Diſcoveries on the Main Land. He commu-
nicated to them the Account he had fent to the
Emperor, and defired their ſpeedy Affiftance to-
wards the Enterprize in which he was engaged; as
alſo that they would put a Stop to the vexatious
Proceedings of Velasquez and Garay. Tho' thefe
Miniſters were convinced of the Juftice of his De-
mands, and admired his Conftancy and Valour,
yet
238
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
yet the Inland of Santo Domingo was not at that
time in a Condition to part either with Men or
Proviſions: But they approved of every thing he
had done, and offered to fupport the Juftice of his
Pretenfions with the Emperor, and folicit fuch Suc-
cours as were neceffary for an Affair of fo great
Importance, and fo far advanced; taking upon
themſelves the Care to check the Efforts of his
Two Rivals, by very ftrict and repeated Orders.
And to this Effect they answered his Letters, ſend-
ing back his Envoys with good Words, but with-
out the Succours he defired. But before we pro-
ceed in the farther Account of this Conqueft, and
while the building of the Brigantines, and other
Preparations for the Return to Mexico, are carried
on with the utmoſt Diligence; it will be proper to
go back to the two firſt Envoys of Cortes, and fee in
what Condition the Affairs of New-Spain were at
the Emperor's Court: the Reader cannot but de-
fire to be informed therein, and fuch an Account
may be reckoned among thofe neceffary Digref-
fions permitted to an Hiſtorian, as they contribute
to the Perfection of his Work, without deſtroying
its Proportion.
CHA P.
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
239
CHA P. VII.
The Envoys of Hernan Cortes arrive in Spain,
and pass on to Medellin, where they con-
tinue till the Troubles of the Kingdom are
over; after which they go to the Court,
and prevail to have the Bishop of Burgos
fet afide from being a Judge in the Caufe
of Cortes.
WE left
E left Martin Cortes with the two firft En-
voys of his Son, Alonfo Hernandez Porto-
carrero and Francifco de Montexo, in the wretched
Employment of following the Regency, and wait-
ing in the Antichambers of the Minifters: fo far
from being admitted to Audience, that not daring
to importune them with any Requeſts, they only
prefented themſelves in the Throng as they paffed
by, and were forced to content themfelves with re-
ceiving the accidental Glance of an Eye; the com-
fortleſs Notice taken of thofe, who having all the
Juſtice in the World on their Side, are yet afraid to
ruin their Pretenfions, by advancing themſelves un--
ſeaſonably. The Emperor, as we have already ob-
ferved, gave them a very favourable Hearing; and
though he was difgufted with the Infolence and the
Attempts of fome Towns in Spain, which endea-
voured to oppofe his Voyage to Germany, by irre-
verent Protefts, little lefs indeed than Threats, yet
he found fufficient Time to inform himſelf very ex-
actly of all that paffed in New Spain, and to judge
what might be expected from the Enterprize. He
made himſelf Mafter of the whole Affair, not dif
daining to aſk Queſtions upon many Points, it be-
ing no ways unbecoming Majefty to receive from a
Subject
240
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
}
Subject thofe Helps that ferve to explain an Affair;
nor fhould a King always go to Council full of
Doubts. The Emperor prefently difcovered the
great Advantages which might be expected from
fuch wonderful Beginnings: And the Idea he at that
Time formed of the Merit of Cortes, helped ex-
tremely to recommend him to his Favour, as he
was naturally inclined to value extraordinary Men.
THE Affairs of the Kingdom, and the fudden
Departure of the Emperor, did not permit him to
come to any fixt Refolution in a Matter wherein fo
many Difficulties were raifed, as well by the Agents
of Velasquez, as by fome Minifters who were in fe-
cret Intelligence with them, and fupported them.
But when the Day of his Embarkation came, which
was the 20th of May 1520, his Majefty did in a
particular manner recommend the Examination of
the Affair of Cortes to Cardinal Adriano, Governor
of the Kingdom in his Abfence. The Cardinal
was very fincerely defirous to favour his Cauſe; but
as the Informations by which he was to govern him-
felf, came from the Council of the Indies, (where
the Votes were influenced by the Authority and
Prejudice of the Prefident, the Biſhop of Burgos)
he found himſelf at a lofs how to come to any Re-
folution; nor was it an eafy matter to affure him-
felf of making a right Judgment, while the Repre-
fentations of Velasquez came cloathed with the Ap-
pearance of Justice, and the Exploits of Cortes
were difcredited with the Name of Rebellion.
AFTERWARDS, when it was most neceffary, there
wanted Time to examine into the Truth of this
Affair, the Cares of the Minifters being employed
in Matters of the laft Importance: Several Cities
began to ftir, under Pretext of correcting what they
called the Diſorders of the State, and others followed
them to the fame Precipice, without examining
whether
1
Book V.
241
Conquest of Mexico.
whether that Pretext was reaſonable or not. They
all look'd on the Abſence of the Emperor as their
greateſt Misfortune, and fome believed they did
him good Service, or at leaft kept within the
Bounds of their Obedience, miftaking the Tranf-
ports of a falfe Zeal for Proofs of their Refpect
and Duty.
THE COMMON People took up Arms to justify
their firſt Offence, and fome Gentlemen fo far de-
graded themſelves, as to join them, through want
of Underſtanding; a Defect which generally effaces
all thofe Sentiments which Nobility of Blood in-
ſpires. The great Lords and Minifters efpouſed
the Cauſe of Juftice, notwithſtanding the Affronts
and Dangers that attended it. In fhort, the whole
Kingdom was in Confufion, and the Sovereign Au-
thority in a manner ufurped by thefe Factions, in
our Hiſtory called Communities, though we know
not with what Reafon; for it could not be pro-
perly faid the Complaint was common, when many
Cities, and almoft the whole Body of the Nobility,
afferted the Rights of the King: However, the
Rebels gave this Name to their Infolence, and have
been favoured by Pofterity with the Title which they
took to honour their Revolt.
*
THOUGH the Account of thefe Difturbances be
foreign to my Argument, I could not avoid touch-
ing upon them, as one of the Caufes that put a
Stop to the good Intentions of the Cardinal, and
croffed the Negotiations of Cortes: It was indeed
a very unfeaſonable Time to confider of new En-
terprizes, when the Regent and Minifters were fo
wholly employed in finding Remedies for the Evils
which afflicted the State within Doors, that thofe
without made no fort of Impreffion upon them: So
that Martin Cortes and his Friends, fenfible of the
fmall Advantages they reaped by their Solicitations,
VOL. II
R
and
242
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
and of the general Diſorder of Affairs, retired to Me-
dellin, with a Refolution to let the Storm blow over,
and expect the Return of the Emperor, who was
perfectly well apprized of the Affair, and had
fhewn a Difpofition to do Juftice to their Preten-
fions; and they plainly faw, that his Authority was
neceffary to furmount the Oppofition of the Biſhop
of Burgos, and other Impediments which arofe
from the prefent Pofture of Affairs.
SOME little time after, Diego de Ordaz and
Alonso de Mendoza arrived at Sevil, after a prof-
perous Voyage; and, without difcovering them-
felves, or their Commiffion, they took Care to be
informed of the State of Cortes's Affairs, a Precau-
tion which imported no lefs than their Liberty;
for they underſtood, to their great Surprize, that
the Commiffioners of Trade had exprefs Orders
from the Biſhop of Burgos, to ftop and impriſon
any Perfon whatfover, who fhould be fent from
New-Spain, and to feize on the Gold and other
Merchandize that he ſhould bring either on his
own Account, or by way of Commiffion. Upon
which, they only endeavoured to fecure their Per-
fons, and thought themfelves very happy in pre-
ferving their Letters and Difpatches, leaving the
Preſent for the King, with every thing elfe, in the
Hands of thofe Judges, and to be difpofed of at
the Pleafure of the Bishop of Burgos.
THEY parted from Sevil, not without great Ap-
prehenfion of being difcovered, determining, if
poffible, to find out at the Court either Martin
Cortes, or his Sen's two Agents, in order to get
Light from their Informations how to proceed; but
hearing on the Road, that they were retired to
Medellin, they went on to that Town, where their
Arrival was welcomed with all the Demonſtrations
of Joy, which fuch wonderful and wifhed-for News
could
Book V.
243
Conquest of MEXICO.
could infpire. It was debated among them, whe-
ther it would be proper to carry the Diſpatches of
Cortes immediately to the Cardinal Regent, without
delaying to inform him of fuch important News ;
but confidering the prefent Disturbances of the
Kingdom, they thought it would be to no Purpoſe
to ſpeak of diftant Advantages, which regarded the
Augmentation, but not the Safety of the Mo-
narchy: Upon which they refolved to continue in
their Retirement, till Affairs fhould take another
Turn, and the Minifters be more at Leifure.
THE Diſorders of Caftile increafed every Day;
for the Mutineers, not content to defend them-
felves in their Rebellion, carried their Infolence fo
far, as to plunder the Country, and lay Siege to
Towns which retained their Fidelity; the Forbear-
ance of the Government exciting their Ambition to
become the Aggreffors. At first the Ministers
thought to bring them to a Senfe of their Duty by
gentle Means and Patience; but the Distemper was
too deeply rooted to allow of the flow Operation
of fuch foft Remedies, and more eſpecially becauſe
the Rebels imagined they had both Force and
Juſtice on their Side: Nor were fome Ecclefiafticks
wanting, who, regardleſs of their Duty, abuſed
the Pulpit, by preaching up Sedition, confirming
the People in their Obftinacy, and perfuading them,
that to correct the Diſorders of the State, was do-
ing good Service both to God and the King. It
came to that pafs, that the great Lords and Gentle-
men were obliged to take up Arms to re-eſtabliſh
the Authority of Juftice, and to animate thoſe
Cities which held for the Emperor. And notwith-
ſtanding the Rebels had the Temerity to bring an
Army into the Field, and try their Strength with
thoſe whom they called their Emenies; yet, after
two Engagements, in which they loft a great Num-
R 2
ber
244
Book V
The HISTORY of the
ber of Men, together with their Reputation, and
after the Execution of four of the principal Authors
of the Sedition, their Pride abated, and their
Forces difperfed; the Prudent and the Timorous
both fecured themſelves as well as they could;
the Cities returned to their Obedience, the Tumult
ceaſed, and Reaſon reſumed her Place. In fhort,
it was but little more than a popular Commotion,
which begins and ends with the fame Facility.
•
THE Account which came at that time of the
Emperor's Return, contributed very much to re-
ftore the publick Tranquillity: He gave Affurance
in his Letters, that he would leave all other Affairs,
to come where his Prefence was fo neceffary. This
Affurance intirely fettled every thing, and Martin
Cortes, judging it a proper Time to renew his
Solicitations, fet out immediately for the Court,
with the four Commiffioners from his Son; where,
after ſome ſmall Delays, they had a particular Au-
dience of the Cardinal Regent. They informed
him in general how far Matters were advanced to-
wards the Conqueft of Mexico, and referred him
to the Letters of Cortes for the Particulars. They
gave him alfo an Account of the Orders they found
at Sevil, for impriſoning any one who ſhould come
from Cortes, and of the Seizure of the Prefent they
had brought for the King. Upon this Occa-
fion, they reprefented the Reafons they had to
diſtruſt the Biſhop of Burgos; and laftly, defired
Leave to except againft him in a legal way as a
Judge, offering to make good the Reaſons of their
Exception, or fuffer the Penalty of their Irreve-
rence. The Cardinal heard them with Attention,
he feemed touched with their Misfortune, and com-
forted them with Promifes of a fpeedy Difpatch.
He was particularly difpleafed with the Orders
given at Sevil, and the Seizure of the Prefent, as
being
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
245
being done without his Knowledge. Whereupon,
the Cardinal anfwered them, with regard to their
Requeſt concerning the Bishop, That they might
take their Remedy against him at Law, after the
Manner they thought most proper; and that he would
protect them from any Violence they might have Rea-
fon to fear in the Course of that Procefs: Which
fufficiently animated them for the hazardous Un-
dertaking of engaging in a Suit with a powerful
Enemy; an Enterprize in which a Man is in a
manner obliged to ſpeak in the moft tender Terms,
and where Fear is wont to take off a good deal
from the Force of Reafon.
WITH thefe Encouragements to hope for better
Fortune, they immediately entered their Exception
againſt the Prefident of the Council of the Indies
in his own Court, delivering their Reaſons in Wri-
ting with all the Temper and Moderation neceſſary
to obferve a due Refpect. But their Reaſons were
fo ſtrong, and the Truth of what they alledged fo
well known to the other Judges, that they durft
not deny Juſtice in an Affair of that- Importance,
and more eſpecially on the Approach of the Em-
peror's Return, the Report of which was joyfully
received by all who did not ftand in Fear of his
Prefence; and not only quieted the Minds of the
People, but occafioned his Minifters to act with
Circumfpection. Bernal Diaz del Caftillo, and
others who have followed him, treat the Biſhop
too rigorously upon this Occafion: Diaz relates
what he heard, and the reft have copyed it; but
the Whole of what they fay doth not feem credi-
ble of fo venerable and accomplished a Prelate.
However, fome of the Articles against him were
certainly proved; as, his treating of a Marriage
between his Niece and Diego Velasquez, the fharp
Expreffions he uſed on feveral Occafions to the
R 3
Envoys
246
The HISTORY of the
}
Book V.
Envoys of Cortes, whom he treated as Rebels and
Traitors, when his Paffion had got the better of
his Prudence. Thefe Proofs, with the Orders he
had given in Sevil to imprifon all Perfons fent from
New-Spain, which were too publick to be denyed,
were thought fufficient to juftify the Recufation.
After a full Hearing, and with the Approbation
of the Council of State and the Cardinal, the
Biſhop was abfolutely forbid to interfere in any
Matters between Hernan Cortes and Diego Velasquez;
his Orders were revoked, the Embargo's at Savil
taken off, and the Importance of the Undertaking
appeared in its true Light. The heroick Actions
of Cortes, which were almoft obfcured before by
the Sufpicion of his Fidelity, were now celebrated
with the Praiſes they deferved; and the Cardinal,
by feveral Decrees, recommended the Diſpatch of
the Envoys, and was fo fincerely defirous to for-
ward the Affair, that even after he had received
the News of his Exaltation to St. Peter's Chair, he
diſpatched fome Orders favourable to Cortes, as he
was on the Road to embark: Whether he was af-
fected by the Juftice of his Caufe, or that having
his Mind poffeffed with the Cares of the fupreme
Dignity, he thought it his Duty to remove all Im-
pediments to a Conqueft, that was to prepare the
Way for the Introduction of the Gofpel, and faci-
litate the Converfion of the Indians; an Intereſt of
the Church worthy to engage the very firft Reflec-
tions of the Sovereign Pontiff.
CHA P.
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
247
CHAP. VIII.
Concludes the Affairs of the precedent Chapter.
TH
€
HE new Pope Adrian, the Sixth of that Name,
was then at Victoria, whither he went to give
the neceffary Orders for relieving the Provinces of
Navarre and Guipufeoa, whofe Frontiers the French
had ravaged, in order to foment the Disturbances of
Caftile: But the Affairs of Italy, and repeated
Letters from Rome, obliged him to begin his Jour-
ney, leaving every thing under his charge in the
beft Pofture he could. Soon after, the Emperor
arrived on the Coaſt of Biscay, and landing at the
Port of Santander, found his Kingdoms almoſt re-
covered of the domeftick Evils they had laboured
under. The Storm was over, but the hollow Noife
of the yet working Sea continued, as it is wont to
do, for fome time after a Tempeft, before a fettled
Calm. He thought therefore, that to chaftife fome
of the Seditious (excepted out of the general Par-
don) would be neceffary for the re-eftabliſhing of
Peace and Juſtice. He alſo found fome Remain-
ders of another Evil which Spain had fuffered du-
ring his Abfence; for the French had unexpectedly
feized upon the Kingdom of Navarre: and though
they were beaten out, after lofing a Battle, together
with their Reputation, and ill-gotten Booty, yet
were ftill in Poffeffion of Frontarabia; and it was
abfolutely neceffary to retake this Place, into which
the Enemy were preparing to throw a powerful Re-
inforcement. But notwithſtanding thefe Affairs,
and others at the fame time in Italy, Flanders, and
Germany, he found Time for thofe of New-Spain,
to which he always had a very particular Attention:
He gave another Audience to the Envoys of Cortes;
R 4
and
248
The HISTORY of the Book V.
and tho' thofe of Diego Velasquez at the fame time
prefented their Requeft, yet, as he had been well
informed of the Cafe on both fides by Letters from
the Pope, he, by a new Sentence, confirmed the Re-
cufation of the Biſhop of Burgos, and appointed
Commiffaries to determine finally upon this Affair,
viz. the great Chancellor of Arragon, Mercurio de
Catinara, Hernando de Vega, Lord of Graial, and
Great Commander of Caftile; Doctor Lorenzo Ga-
lindez of Caravajal; the Licentiate Francifco de
Vargas Councellor of State, and Chamberlain to
the King; and Monfieur de la Rofe, the Flemish
Minifter: Monfieur de la Chau, whom Diaz and
Herrera have added to this Commiffion, could not
poffibly be one of the Number, being dead fome
Years before in Saragoffa; and the Poft of Grand
Chancellor, vacant by his Death, being poffeffed
by Mercurio de Catinara. The Election of Perſons
fo well qualified, fhewed the Juftice of his Ma-
jefty's Intentions: For the Kingdom did not afford
Men in whom the Emperor repofed more Confi-
dence; nor were any to be found, in whom
Learning, Prudence, and Equity appeared in a
more eminent degree.
THE first Thing the Council did, was to look
over the Memorials drawn from Letters and Rela-
tions produced at the Trial; but there they were fo
embaraffed by contradictory Accounts, that they
thought it neceffary to order the Agents on both
Sides to explain themſelves, viva voce, in the next
Meeting; for they were all defirous to difpatch
this Affair, and examine ftrictly into the Accufa-
tions brought by the Parties againſt each other,
and into the Strength of their reſpective Argu-
ments, that fo they might come to the Knowledge
of the Truth, without tying themfelves up to
Forms
}
Book V.
249
Conquest of MEXICO.
Forms of Law, which generally do but perplex a
Cauſe, and are ſo many Obftacles to Juftice.
THE next Day the Agents appeared before the
Council with their Advocates; and, among thoſe
for Diego Velafquez, Andres de Duero fignalized
himſelf: but People were the lefs furprized to fee
him unfaithful to his Friend, knowing he had
been fo firft to his Mafter. The Memorials were
read; and the Parties at the fame time were exa-
mined, in order to difcover how they juftified
themſelves from their refpective Accufations, and
made good their Complaints. From their An-
fwers, the Judges drew what was fufficient to de-
cide the Affair: And, after fome few Days Hear-
ings, the Court unanimouſly agreed, That it was not
reaſonable for Diego Velasquez to appropriate to him-
Self the Advantages of the Conqueft of New-Spain,
without a better Title than that of having expended
fome Money in the Preparations for that Enter-
prize, and naming Cortes for Commander: That
he could only have his Action for what he had laid
out, making it appear to be from his own proper
Stock, and not any of the Effects belonging to the
King in his Government: That the Nomination of
Cortes afforded him no Pretence either to the Honour
or Advantage of the Conqueft; for, befides that he
gave him the Commiffion without the Authority of the
Minifters of the Royal Audience, whofe Orders be
fhould have received, or fo much as acquainting them
with it, he lost thofe Prerogatives the Day that he
revoked it, and could have no Right to ſay, That the
Conquest was made by his Order, Cortes being by
that Revocation left free to act as he should judge
most advantageous for the Service of the King, with
the Troops and Veffels which, for the most part, he
had raiſed and equipped at his own Expence, and that
of his Friends.
AND
哦
​250
Book V:
The HISTORY of the
AND tho' the Judges were alſo very fenfible,
that the Conduct of Cortes was not, in the Begin-
ning of this Enterprize, altogether fo regular as it
ſhould have been, yet they thought fomething was
to be allowed to his juft Indignation, and much
more to its admirable Effects: A Conqueft fo
wonderful, and of fo great Importance, the Dif-
ficulties of which had only ferved to manifeft his
incomparable Valour, and, above all, his Fidelity,
and inviolable Attachment to his Duty! For which
Reaſon, they judged him worthy to be continued
in the Command of what he had conquered, and
to be encouraged and fupported in an Undertaking
already fo far advanced. And, laftly, they cenfu-
red Diego Velasquez, as a Perfon who had fhewed a
very ungovernable Ambition, in afpiring, with fo
little Reafon, to ufurp the Glory and Advantage
of the Actions of another; and as having been
guilty of a Raſhneſs which deferved a very fevere
Reprimand, in fending an Army against Hernan
Cortes, without confidering the Confequences which
might have attended fuch violent Proceedings, or
regarding the Orders he had received to the con-
trary from the Miniſters of the Royal Audience of
St. Domingo.
THESE Conclufions were laid before the Empe-
ror, which being approved by his Majefty, Sen-
tence was pronounced, declaring Hernan Cortes to
be a good Miniſter, and faithful Subject; honour-
ing with the like Approbation the Officers and
Soldiers under his Command; impofing perpetual
Silence on Diego Velafquez, on the Subject of any
Pretenfions to the Conqueft of New Spain; and
ftrictly commanding him, on pain of fevere Puniſh-
ment, not to raiſe the leaft Obftacle to that Affair,
either directly or indirectly, with a Refervation for
any Demand he might have on account of Monies
by
+
1
Book V.
251
Conqueft of MEXICO.
by him expended in the Armament of the Veffels,
which he was to make out his Claim to, and fue
for in the ordinary way of Juftice. And thus did
this Affair end, the Judges referring the Honours
defigned for Cortes, the Reprimanding of Velasquez,
and other Conclufions of the Council, to the Dif
patches that were to be fent in the Name of the
Emperor.
SOME are of the Opinion, that this Judgment
was framed rather according to Reafons of State,
than the Rigour of Juftice: It is not my Bufinefs
to examine the Right of the pretending Parties; I
have fhewn the Motives and Confiderations upon
which the Judges pronounced Sentence, and I am
not infenfible, that in the firſt Steps of Cortes there is
Occaſion for a favourable Interpretation; but at the
fame time it cannot be denyed, that his Title to
the Conqueft was as good as the Emperor's to the
Country conquered. Upon which Confideration,
the Judges might very well proceed as a Court of
Equity, by taking this Affair out of the common
Road, and moderating the Rigour of Juftice: To
which they were the more induced by the Weak-
nefs of Velasquez's Arguments, his violent Proceed-
ings, and Difrefpect to the Royal Authority. It is
faid he lived but a little while after he received
the Emperor's Reprimand, the very Words of
Kings having the Power to reward and puniſh.
We muſt not refufe to Diego Velasquez the juſt
Praiſes he deſerved, on account of his Quality,
Capacity, and Courage, of which he had given
fignal Proofs in the Conqueft of Cuba; but upon
this Occafion he was miferably miſtaken in the Be-
ginning, and, by the Ufe of improper Means, fell
fhort of the End he propofed; and, finally, his
Impatience haftened his Death. His firft Fault
was Diftruft, a Vice which, like Excefs of Fear,
produces
{
252
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
produces Raſhneſs; the fecond was Anger, which
does more than make Men irrational ; for it makes
them Enemies to Reafon : and the third was Envy,
which, in mean Spirits, fupplies the Place of An-
ger.
THE next Thing taken into Confideration, was
the Affiſtance to be given Cortes, the Care of which
the Emperor referred to the fame Council: He
gave a very favourable Audience to his Agents, and
feemed well pleaſed, that Juftice had declared on
their Side: He beftowed feveral Marks of his Fa-
vour upon Martin Cortes, on account of his Son's
Merit, whom he promiſed to reward according to
the Greatnefs of his Service. Several Regulars
were named for the Converfion of the Indians, the
firſt Care of the Emperor, who was always more
zealous for the Advancement of Religion, than for
the Augmentation of his Empire. He ordered a
confiderable Number of Arms and Horfes to be
embarked in the firſt Fleet; and, confidering how
much it imported to uſe the utmoſt Diſpatch at a
time when Hernan Cortes was engaged in War, and
not without great Sufpicion of his Rivals, he com-
manded the Orders to be immediately drawn, and
ſent by feveral Letters.
ONE was directed to the Governors and Royal
Audience of Saint Domingo, fignifying to them his
Refolution, with Orders to affift Cortes to the ut-
moſt of their Power, and and remove all Impedi-
ments to his Conqueft. Another was to Diego Ve-
lafquez, ftrictly injoining him to defift from further
interfering in that Enterprize, and feverely cenfu-
ring his violent Proceedings. There was another
to Francifco de Garay, blaming him for attempting
any thing on New Spain, and forbidding him to
continue that Defign. The laſt was directed to
Hernan Cortes, and abounded in thofe Marks of
Honour
Book V.
253
Conquest of MEXICO.
Honour and Favour which Kings beftow on thofe
from whom they have received extraordinary Ser-
vices, when they do not difdain to own the Obli-
gation. The Emperor in this Letter did not only
approve the paſt Actions of Cortes, but withal his
preſent Deſign, and the Difpofition he had made
for re-taking the City of Mexico. He let him
know how fenfible he was of his Valour and Con-
ftancy, not forgetting to take Notice of the Pru-
dence and Addrefs with which he had managed
both his own Troops, and thofe of his Confede-
rates. His Majefty alſo informed him of the Or-
ders he had given to fecure him from his Rivals,
and of the Commiffion he had fent him to be
Governor and Captain-General of that Country.
He affured him at the fame time of more folid
Proofs of his Acknowledgment, and made parti-
cular and honourable mention of the Captains and
Soldiers who had ferved under him. He recom-
mended to him in a moft preffing Manner to treat
the Indians well, and to take care to have them
inftructed in the Chriftian Religion, confidering
them as a Soil capable of being cultivated by the
Goſpel: He laftly gave him Hopes of fpeedy Suc-
cour and Affiftance, referring to his Valour and
Fidelity the final Accomplishment of fo great a
Work. A Letter which will for ever honour the
illuſtrious Poſterity of Cortes! and fuch a one as
would not only give Nobility, where it is want-
ing, but a Luftre to Families of the nobleft De-
ſcent.
THESE Diſpatches were all figned by the Em-
peror in Valladolid, the 22d of October 1522. and
immediately fent away with two of the Envoys of
Cortes, the other two remaining behind to folicit
Succours, and receive Inftructions that were fra-
ming
254 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
ming for the civil and military Government of the
new-conquered Country.
THO' we have a little interrupted our Account
of the Exploits of Cortes, we thought it neceffary
to purſue this Affair to the Conclufion, that we
might not leave it unfiniſhed in fuch manner as
fhould oblige us to make another Digreffion: A
Liberty not only taken by Hiftorians, but Anna-
lifts, who tie themſelves up more ftrictly to Time;
as we find it practiſed in Cornelius Tacitus, who,
in the Empire of Claudius, introduces and concludes
the Wars of Britain, under the two Vice-Pretors,
Offorius and Didius, judging it lefs inconvenient to
break through the Series of Years, than the Con-
nexion of important Events.
CHAP. IX.
Cortes receives a new Succour of Men and Am-
munition: He mufters his Spanish Troops;
and the Confederates do the like, after his
Example: He publishes certain military Or-
ders, and begins his March, with a Defign
to poffefs himself of Tezeuco.
T
It was now about the End of the Year 1520, when
Cortes refolved to march with his whole Army
into the Enemy's Country, and to make the laft
Difpofitions for his grand Enterprize. He had re-
ceived, fome few Days before, à Succour of Men,
whom good Fortune threw in his way; for the
Governor of Vera-Cruz, gave him Notice, that a
Merchant-Man from the Canaries was anchored
there, with a confiderable Quantity of Fire-Arms
and
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
255
and Powder, and other warlike Provifions, three
Horſes, and fome Paffengers, who came thither
purpoſely to fell their Merchandize to the Spani-
ards, who were ingaged in that Conqueft.
Ar that time all Sorts of Goods fold at an
exceffive Price in the Indies, and the Hopes of
Gain had quite overcome all Fear of fo diftant
and dangerous a Commerce. Upon this Advice,
Cortes, defirous to make Advantage of the Op-
portunity, immediately fent a Commiffary to Vera-
Cruz, with Bars of Gold and Silver, under a
fufficient Guard; and the Governor was ordered
to buy the Arms and Ammunition as cheap as
he could. The Governor managed the Matter
with ſo much Dexterity, and raiſed fuch an Opi-
nion of the Undertaking in which his General was
engaged, that not only the Merchants fold what
they had brought at a reaſonable Rate, but the
Captain of the Veffel, with the Mafter, and thir-
teen Spanish Soldiers, who came to feek their For-
tunes in the Indies, went with the Commiffary to
the Camp, and joined the Army. This Notion of
making Fortunes in the Indies, was very pre-
valent at that time, and ftill fubfifts among fome
who are eager to enrich themfelves that Way;
the Deſtruction of thoſe who had been deceived,
not in the leaſt difcouraging the Avarice of others.
WITH this Reinforcement, and fome others
which Hernan Cortes had received beyond all Ex-
pectation, he refolved to haften the March of his
Army; and indeed he could not now delay it any
longer, or ſtay for the finishing the Brigantines;
for the Troops of the Republick, with thofe of
their Allies, were daily arriving, and, from their
Inaction, he might reafonably apprehend fome In-
conveniencies.
HE
256
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
He affembled his Captains, to deliberate upon
what would be moft proper for them to undertake
with the Forces they had, for the Service of the
grand Defign, till fuch time as they fhould be
joined by all the rest of the Troops, and were in a
Condition to attempt the Recovery of Mexico: And
after a long Debate upon Variety of Opinions, they
refolved to march directly to Tezeuco, and, in all
Events, to feize that City; which being fituated in
the Road from Tlafcala, and almoft on the Bor-
ders of the Lake, feemed very proper for a Place of
Arms: It was a Poft which they could fortify and
maintain, and where they might eafily receive the
Reinforcements they expected, and make Inroads
from it into the Enemy's Country: Moreover, it
was a fure Retreat at a reaſonable Diſtance from
Mexico, to fhelter them from the Accidents of
War. It was alfo judged, that the Troops which
were already arrived, were a Number fufficient for
that Defign; and tho' the Canals, by which the
Waters of the Lake had a Communication with the
City, feemed too narrow for the Paffage of the
Brigantines, they reſolved to confider more at Lei-
fure of that Difficulty afterwards, and to begin their
March without any farther Delay.
THE Day after this Refolution, Cortes muſtered
his Spaniards, and found them five hundred and
forty Foot, and forty Horfe, with nine Pieces of
Artillery, brought on Shore from the Veffels.
This Parade was ordered in Sight of an innumera-
ble Concourfe of People, and had the Air of a
general Review, by drawing the Attention of the
Spectators from the numbering of the Men, to
the Pomp of the Shew, in which nothing was omit-
ted that ſerved for Oftentation; as, the Finery of
the Soldiers, Flying of Colours, Management of
Horſes, and the handling of their Arms, when they
prepared
Book V.
257
Conqueft of MEXICO.
T
}
prepared to falute the General; and all was per-
formed with fo much Gallantry and Decorum, that
the Multitude expreffed their Satisfaction by re-
peated Acclamations: And the Indian Soldiers were
inftructed by their Example For Xicotencal, who
was General of the Republick, would needs mufter
his Troops, not that this Method was ever prac-
tifed by the Tlafcalans, but only to make his Court
to Cortes, by imitating the Spaniards; and firſt
paffed the Drums and Trumpets, with the reſt of
their warlike Inftruments; then the Captains, in
Files, gaily adorned, with large Plumes of various
Colours, and Jewels hanging at their Ears and
Lips; they carried their Macanas, or two-handed
Swords, under the Left Arm, with their Points
upward; and every one had a Page, bearing his
Shield, on which were different Figures, expreffing
their own Exploits, and the Defeat of their Ene-
mies; after their manner, they complimented the
two Generals, and then the Troops marched by in
different Bodies, diftinguished by the Colour of
their Plumes, and by their Enfigns; namely, the
Figures of feveral Animals, which hanging at the
End of their Pikes, ferved instead of Colours:
The whole Army confifted of ten Thouſand chofen
Men; for tho' the Republick had provided a much
greater Number, yet the reſt of their Levies were
left to affiſt in conducting the Brigantines, the Se-
curity of which was of fo much Confequence, that
the Senate took the engaging their Troops that
way as a Favour, which might have been refented
as a Slight.
ANTONIO DE HERRERA will have it, that the
Tlaſcalans muſtered eighty Thouſand Men, in which
he differs from Bernal Diaz, and other Authors,
unleſs he included Troops of Cholula and Guaxocinge,
which were encamped without the Town; for there
VOL. II.
$
is
358
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
1
is no Doubt but Hernan Cortes marched out of Tlaf-
cala with above fixty Thouſand Men, not reckon-
ing thoſe who joined him on his March, or at the
Place of Rendezvous, which were fo numerous,
that during the Siege of Mexico, he had under his
Command above two hundred Thouſand Men;
and what renders this the more remarkable, is, that
we have not been told of any Want they had of
Provifions, or of the leaft Difcord among fo many
different Nations, of any Confufion in the giving
of Orders or of any Want of Exactnefs in obeying
them. Much, indeed, was owing to the great
Capacity and extraordinary Prudence of Cortes, but
this Work could not be wholly his. It pleaſed
God to reduce this Empire to his holy Law, and
making uſe of him as an Inftrument, he facilitated
the Means which conduced to that End, difpofing
the Minds of Men for thofe Events which He had
pre-ordained.
CORTES immediately publiſhed fome Ordinances
which he had formed at his leifure Hours, to pre-
vent thoſe Inconveniencies in War, by which it is
wont to hazard, or lofe its Character of being juſt.
He ordered therefore, upon pain of Death, That no
Man fhould prefume to draw his Sword against ano-
ther, either in QQuarters, or upon the March; That
no Spaniards fhould abuse a confederate Indian, either
by Word or Action; That no one should force, or
otherwife abuse a Woman, tho' belonging to the Ene-
my; That no one should leave the Army, to go and
plunder the Villages, without Leave, and a Number
fufficient to execute the Undertaking; and, That they
Should not play away their Arms and Horfes; in
which Article, their Difcipline had been a little too
remifs. And he particularly prohibited, on pain of
Infamy and Degradation, all Swearing, Blafphemy,
and
4
Book V.
259
Conquest of MEXICO.
and other Abuſes, which are generally introduced,
as allowable, under the Title of Military Licence.
THE fame Ordinances were fignified to the
Commanders of the Indian Troops; and Cortes
himſelf was prefent when they were interpreted to
them by Aguilar and Donna Marina, in order to
make them underſtand, that the Penalties regarded
all without Exception, and that the leaft of their
Exceffes would be puniſhed with the utmoft Ri-
gour. This quickly went from the Tlafcalans to
the other Nations, and had fo good an Effect, that
from that Moment there appeared more Regularity
in the Indians than before; tho' during the March,
Cortes was obliged to wink at fome things, and
make Allowance for their Barbarifm, and the Pre-
valency of Cuftom; but after the Puniſhment of
two or three, the reft were reduced to better Dif
cipline and the Fear of being chaſtized, joined
with the Care they took to conceal their Crimes,
paffed for a fort of Reparation to the Juftice of the
General.
UPON the Day of the March which was the
Feaſt of the Innocents, after Father Bartolomè de
Olmedo had faid Maſs, and addreffed himſelf to
God in a particular Prayer for the good Succeſs of
the Expedition, Hernan Cortes commanded the
Indians to form themſelves into grofs Battalions,
and after they were ranged in Order of Battle, he
marched out of the Village at the Head of the Spa-
niords; and by their Example, fhewed the Indians
how to double their Files, with all the Leifure
which that Movement requires, their overmuch
Hafte in beginning an Engagement generally bring-
ing them into Confufion, and being one of their
greateſt Miſtakes in War.
AFTER this, he called together the principal
Commanders of the feveral Nations, and, by the
S 2
Help
260
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
L
Help of the Interpreters, made them a fhort Ex-
hortation: He recommended to them, to animate
their Men, by convincing them, that the prefent Un-
dertaking concerned their common Intereft, as being to
fight for their own Liberty and that of their Country;
to fend all back who were not willing to stay; to take
very particular Care to punish the Breach of Orders;
and above all, to lay before them the Obligation they
were under of following the Example of their Friends
the Spaniards, both in their Actions of Valour, and in
their Moderation.
THEY went to put his Orders in Execution, and
he returned to the Head of his own Men; who,
by their Silence, fhewed that they were prepared to
hear him: I do not pretend, my Friends and Compa-
nions, (faid he) to make you fenfible by vain Exagge-
rations of the Obligations you lie under to act in this
Expedition like Spaniards; I have already had fuf-
ficient Proofs of your Courage, and have even envyed
the Gallantry of your Actions. What I am now to
recommend to you, is rather under the Character of
your Companion than your General, that we should
all, with equal Care, confider this great Multitude of
Indians, who follow us, and who regard our Caufe
as their own; which lays us under two Obligations,
both worthy of our particular Attention. The firft is,
to behave towards them as Friends, and even to bear with
them, if it be neceſſary, as Creatures of an inferior
Degree of Reason; and the other is, to give them an
Example by our Actions. You are fenfible of the
Orders which have been published to all, and the leaft
Offence against them, amongst you, will be aggra-
vated by the Addition of fetting a bad Example;
every one must confider the Influence his Trangreffions
may have, or elfe I fhall be obliged to confider the
important Influence of their due Puniſhment. I shall
be extremely concerned, to find myself neceffitated to
proceed
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
261
proceed with Rigour against the Man of leaft Account
amongst you: but this Concern will be unavoidable;
for I am refolved to be just, as well as patient. You
are all fenfible of the great Undertaking we have in
band; 'tis no less than the Conquest of an Empire for
our King, and will be an Action worthy to be record-
ed in Hiftory. The Forces we already have, with
thoſe who are yet to join us, will be proportioned to
this heroick Defign; and God, whoſe Cauſe we defend,
and who has hitherto miraculously fupported us, will
go along with us; nor is it poſſible to ſuppoſe, Hẹ
will abandon an Enterprize, in which He hath so
often declared Himſelf our Leader. Let us then fol-
low Him, and not difpleafe Him. And repeating
again, Let us then follow Him, and not difpleafe
Him, he ended his Speech, and gave Orders for
the March, with the Acclamations of his People;
taking for good Prognofticks, the Satisfaction with
which the Soldiers followed him, the extraordinary
Accident by which the Number of his Spaniards
was augmented, and the hearty Difpofition of his
Confederates. He confidered all thefe together as
a happy Prefage of Succefs, not that he made
much Account of fuch Obſervations; but the Un-
derſtanding ſometimes relaxes itſelf, that Hope
may be diverted with the Dreams of the Imagina-
tion.
?
S 3
CHAP.
262
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
CHA P. X.
The Army marches, and overcomes fome Dif-
ficulties. The King of Tezeu.co fends an art-
ful Embay to Cortes; he returns an An-
fwer of the jame kind, and thereby gains
Admittance into the City without Refiflance.
HE Army marched that Day fix Leagues
Tand, at Sun-fet, took up their Quarters
in a Place called Texmeluca, which, in the Lan-
guage of the Country, fignified a Grove of Oaks.
It was a confiderable Town fituate on the Mexican
Confines, and in the Jurifdiction of Guaxocingo,
whofe Cazique took Care to provide fufficiently for
all the Troops, and a particular Regale for the.
Spaniards. The Day following, they continued
their March in the Enemy's Country with all ne-
ceffary Precautions. They received Advice, that
the Mexicans were affembled on the other Side of
a Mountain, whofe Woods and Rocks rendered
the Paffage to the Road of Tezeuco very difficult;
and becauſe they came not to that Place till to-
wards Evening, and it was not advifable to march
thro' fuch broken mountainous Ground, when:
Night was approaching, the Army made a Halt,
and lodged themſelves as well as they could, ma-
king great Fires, which were fcarce fufficient to
preferve them from the intemperate Cold.
EARLY in the Morning they began to mount
the Hill, and penetrate the Woods, keeping pace
with the Artillery; but they had not marched
'much above a League, when the Van-guard re-
turned with an Account, that the Enemy had ftop-
ped up the Way with Trees laid acrofs, and fharp
Stakes,
Book V.
263
Conquest of MEXICO.
Stakes, which they had fixed in the loofe Sands to
wound the Horfes; upon which Hernan Cortes,
who never loft any Opportunity of encouraging his
Men, faid to the Spaniards aloud, Thefe valiant
People don't feem very defirous to meet us, fince they
take fo much Pains to stop up the Way to them: And
without the leaft Delay, he ordered two Thoufand
Tlafcalans to join the Van-guard, and clear the
Road of all Impediments; which they executed
with fo much Expedition, that the Rear of the
Army fcarce feemed to ftop. He likewife detached
fome Companies to fearch narrowly thofe Places
which feemed proper for Ambuſcades; and with
all the Caution, that thofe Signs of a neighbour-
ing Enemy required, the Troops continued their
March two Leagues further to the Top of the
Mountain.
FROM this Place they difcovered the great Lake
of Mexico, and upon this Occafion Hernan Cortes
put his Soldiers in Mind of the Profperity and
Riches they had enjoyed, as well as of what they
had fuffered in that City, mixing the Good and
Bad, that he might animate them to Revenge by
the Incentives of Intereft. They likewife diſco-
vered feveral Fires in diftant Towns, fucceeding
one another with fome Intermiffion: And tho' there
was no Doubt but thefe were Signals made on the
Diſcovery of the Army, they purfued their March,
with litte lefs Difficulty, and with the fame Precau-
tion; for the Way continued very bad, and the
Woods were ſo thick, that they had but little open-
Ground.
BUT after they had overcome this Difficulty,
they diſcovered, at a great Diſtance, the Enemy's
Army, which took up all the plain, without ma-
king any Motion, feeming refolved to continue in
a Poft, from whence they could eafily make a
Retreat,
S4
264
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
Retreat. The Spaniards rejoiced at the Opportu-
nity of coming fo foon to Action, and the Tlaf-
calans did the fame; but the Joy of the latter
ftreight turned to Fury, fo that Cortes was obliged
to make uſe of his Voice, and the Diligence of
fome of his Captains, to prevent their running into
Diſorder though an Eagerness to Fight. The Mexi-
cans were on the farther Side of a great Barranco
or Gap in the Earth, which muft of Neceffity be
paffed. It was made deeper by a Brook, which
gathering all the Waters from the Mountains, ran
through it, and was, at that Time, confiderably
fwelled. The Mexicans had a little wooden Bridge
over it, for the Ufe of Paffengers, which they
could eaſily have broke down, but had left on
Purpoſe, as was afterwards fuppofed, that they
might deſtroy their Enemies in that narrow Pafs,
thinking it impoffible that they could ever form
themſelves on the other Side, when fo vigorously
oppoſed. After this manner they reafoned, when
they were at a Diſtance from Danger; but when
they difcovered the Army of Cortes, which they
had not believed to be fo numerous, their Imagi-
nation was ftruck with lefs fantaſtick Notions,
They wanted Courage to defend their Poft, but
defiring to affect a Shew of Valour, or at leaſt to
conceal their Fear, they began to retire by little
and little without turning their Backs, feeming to
diftinguish betwixt a Flight and a Retreat.
CORTES advanced with ſpeed, and when he
came up to the Barranco, he eſteemed it a piece of
good Fortune, that the Enemy had quitted it; for
notwithſtanding the Spaniards found no Reſiſtance,
they had fome Difficulty in paffing it. He de-
tached twenty Horfe, and fome Companies of
Tlafcalans, to keep the Enemy in Play, without
engaging farther, until fuch time as the reft of his
Troops fhould be all paffed; but the Mexicans no
fooner
Book V.
265
Conquest of MEXICO.
fooner faw them drawing up on the other Side of
the Barranco, but they laid afide all their Policy,
openly flying and difperfing, fome betaking them-
felves to the moſt unfrequented Paths, and others
feeking Refuge in the Shelter of the Mountains.
CORTES did not care to lofe Time in following
the Chace, becaufe 'twas of more Importance to
poffefs himſelf ſpeedily of Tezeuco; and whatever
delayed that, was to be efteemed a Hindrance to
the main Deſign. The Army, however, in their
March, made fome Slaughter of the Mexicans who
had abfconded in the Woods. The fame Night
the Troops quartered in a Place newly forfaken by
the Inhabitants, within three Leagues of Tezeuco,
where they doubled their Centries, and were, in a
manner, all Night under Arms. But the next
Day, at a little Diſtance from that Town, they dif
covered about Ten unarmed Indians, who were
coming in Hafte along the Road with the Ap-
pearance of Meffengers, or Fugitives, and brought
with them a Plate of Gold, in form of a Flag,
hanging to the Top of a Lance, which was looked
on as a Signal of Peace. The Chief of them came
as Ambaffador from the King of Tezeuco, defiring
Cortes to spare his People and Country, acquaint-
ing him, that he defired to be his Confederate;
for which End, he had provided good Quarters
for all the Spaniards, in the City; and that the reſt
of the Nations under his Command, ſhould be
ſupplied with every thing that was neceffary, with-
out the Walls. Cortes put fome Queſtions to him;
and, as he came well inftructed, he anfwered with-
out Hefitation; adding, That his Mafter had juſt
Reaſon to complain of the Emperor who then
reigned in Mexico, who was about to execute his
Revenge upon him by fome Extortions, and other
Oppreffions not to be endured, for his having re-
fufed
266
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
fufed him his Vote in his Election to the Empire;
for which Reafon he was minded to unite himſelf
with the Spaniards, as one of the moſt intereſted
in the Ruin of that Tyrant.
1
OUR Hiftorians don't fay, or at leaft, don't
agree, whether the Brother of Cacumazin, whom
we left Prifoner in Mexico, for confpiring againſt
Motezuma and the Spaniards, reigned at this Time
in Tezeuco. It has been already related how the
Crown, and Electoral Vote, were beftowed on his
Brother at the Recommendation of Cortes; and
'tis very likely, that the difpoffeffed Prince reigned
at this Time, and that the new Emperor might
think it very proper to reftore him, on the account
of his being a declared Enemy of the Spaniards:
Which alfo feems agreeable with the Diftruft con-
ceived by Cortes; for he no fooner received the
Embaffy, but he ftepped afide to confer with his
Captains about the Anfwer. They all doubted the
Sincerity of the Propofition, and thought it was
too much to be expected from an offended Prince;
but that, neverthelefs, fince they had already re-
folved to make themſelves Mafters of that Place by
Force of Arms, it ought to be confidered as a piece
of good Fortune to have their Entrance free, which
firſt. Difficulty they fhould get over by accepting
the Prince's Offer; and that, when once they were
within the Walls, where they fhould be as much
upon their Guard as if they had taken the Town
by Affault, they might act as Occafion required.
This Determination being made, Cortes difpatched
the Ambaſſador, bidding him tell his Prince, That
he agreed to the Peace, and accepted the offered
Quarters, being defirous to correfpond intirely to
the good Intelligence with which he had fought his
Friendſhip.
THE
Book V.
267
Conquest of MEXICO.
THE Troops continued their March, and lodged
themſelves that Night in one of the Suburbs of the
City, or Village near adjoining; deferring their
Entry till next Morning, that they might have the
whole Day before them for an Enterprize, which,
according to the Appearances, would not be over.
in a few Hours. One Ground of this Sufpicion
was, their finding the Place utterly forfaken by the
Inhabitants; and another, no lefs confiderable, was
the Cazique's not appearing, nor any body from
him, to vifit Cortes: but there was no Sign of
War, nor did any thing extraordinary happen,
until at Sun-rife, Cortes made his Difpofitions for
attacking the Town, which he now thought una-
voidable; tho' in a little time he perceived it to
be unneceffary, for he found the City open, and
without Defence. Some Troops advanced to feize
the Gates, which they did without Refiftance. Her-
nan Cortes, in a Readinefs to fight, marched thro'
the Streets, ftill obferving the Appearances of
Peace, while he fufpected War. He advanced in
the beſt Order he could, till he came into a large
Square, where he drew up the greateſt Part of his
Men, and ordered the reft to poffefs themfelves
of all the Streets thereabouts. The Inhabitants,
who appeared in Multitudes in feveral Places as
they paffed along, feemed trightened, and fhewed
in their Faces the Uneafinefs of their Minds; and
it was remarked, that none of their Women were
to be feen; Circumſtances which helped to con-
firm the firſt Sufpicions.
It was thought proper to feize on the chief
Temple, which, by its Height, commanded the
whole City, and from whence might be ſeen the
greateſt Part of the Lake; and for this Service,
Cortes ordered Pedro de Alvarado, Christoval de Olid,
and Bernal Diaz del Caftillo, with fome Fire-Arms,
and
268
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
and a fufficient Number of Tlafcalans. They found
that Poft without Defence, and from the Top of
the Temple diſcovered, that great Numbers of the
Inhabitants were flying from the City, fome by
Land to the Mountains, and others in Canoes to
Mexico, which plainly made appear the Treachery
of the Cazique. Cortes ordered him to be fought,
and brought before him; but was informed, that
he had retired fome little time before to the Mexi-
can Troops with thoſe few of his Men who were
willing to follow him; who, as the Peaſants faid,
were People of no Account: for the Nobility, and
the greateſt Part of his Vaffals, abhorred his Go-
vernment, and ſtayed behind, pretending they would
follow him. It was difcovered likewife, that he
had refolved to treat the Spaniards well, until he
had gained their good Opinion, in order to take
Advantage of their Security, and introduce the
Mexicans, who were to deftroy them all in one
Night; but when he was informed by his Ambaf-
fador of the great Force Cortes brought with him,
he wanted Courage to go on with his Defign, and
thought it more adviſeable to retreat, abandoning
the City, and his Vaffals, to the Diſcretion of his
Enemies.
HERE Good-Fortune did as much as Induftry
and Valour could have done. Cortes defired to
poffefs himſelf of Tezeuco, an advantageous Poft
for a Place of Arms, and neceffary for his Enter-
prize; and the defigned Stratagem of the Cazique
gave him a free Paffage into the City without the
leaft Difpute; his Flight removed the Inconveni-
ence of a continual Jealoufy and Diſtruſt; and
the Diſcontent of his Subjects facilitated the Means
of bringing them to be at his Devotion. When
Affairs are to fucceed, every thing hits right,
and for this Reafon Fortunate is juſtly placed
among
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
269
among the Attributes of a General, whofe pru-
dent Difpofitions are executed by Valour, but
whofe Prudence and Valour are both beholden to
good Fortune. This word Fortune was ill under-
ſtood by the Gentiles, or not underſtood at all.
They adored Fortune, as a Deity, tho' fantaſtical
and undiftinguiſhing, always blind and Inconftant:
but we underſtand by this Name, the free Gifts of
Divine Beneficence: And thus the Idea of what is
meant by proſperous Accidents, is rectified; For-
tune reduced to its true Signification; and the
Fortunate know the Spring of thofe Favours they
receive.
CHA P. XI.
The Army being quartered in Tezeuco, the
Nobles come and offer to ferve in it. Cortes
reftores the Kingdom to the lawful Succeffor,
leaving the Tyrant without any Hopes to re-
eſtabliſh himself.
THE
HE firft Care of Cortes was, to remove the
Apprehenfions which the People of the Coun-
try were under. He ordered the Spaniards to treat
them gently, endeavouring to gain their Affections,
fince they ought to confider them as having already
fubmitted; and this Order was publiſhed to the
Confederate Troops with greater Precifenefs by the
Mouths of their Chiefs; whofe Obedience was the
more remarkable, becauſe they were now in an
Enemy's Country, well practifed in the Violences.
of War, and flufhed with the Prefumption of being
Conquerors: but fuch was their Refpect to Cortes,
that
270
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
that they not only repreffed their natural Ferocity,
and evil Cuſtoms, but familiarized themſelves with
the Inhabitants, publiſhing Peace to them both by
their Words and Actions. The Soldiers quartered
that Night in the Palaces of the fugitive King,
which were fo capacious, that there was fufficient
Lodgment for the Spaniards, and Part of the Tlaf-
calans, and the reft were quartered in the neigh-
bouring Streets, without entering into the Houfes,
that they might not incommode the Inhabitants.
THE next Morning fome of the Idol Prieſts
came to folicit good Treatment for their Gods,
returning Thanks at the fame time for that which
they had already experienced. They alfo acquaint-
ed Cortes, That the Nobility of that City waited
his Permiffion to come and make an Offer of their
Obedience and Friendship; which Cortes agreed to,
without having any Occafion to affect being well
pleafed; for he very much defired what he grant-
ed. And, a little after, the Nobles came dreft, as
they uſed to appear in their publick Solemnities,
headed by a Youth of a genteel Mien, who fpoke
for the reft, and prefented to Cortes this Troop of
Soldiers, who came, he ſaid, to ſerve in his Army,
defiring to merit by their Actions a Shelter under
the Shade of his Enfigns; to which he added a
few more Words, expreffed with fuch a Force and
Gravity, as gained him at the fame time both At-
tention and Refpect. Hernan Cortes heard him
with Admiration, and was fo taken with his Elo-
quence, and good Behaviour, (together with the
Advantage of this Offer) that without being able
to contain himſelf, he took him into his Arms;
but after having attributed this Excefs of his
Content to the Diſcretion of the young Man, he
compofed himſelf to return a fedate Anfwer to his
Propofition.
THE
Book V.
271
Conquest of MEXICO.
THE reft came forward, and after the firft Cere-
monies of Reſpect were over, Cortes retired with
him who came as their Leader, and fome others
of the principal Tezeucans; and calling for his In-
terpreters, was fully informed of all the Cazique's
Difpofitions in Favour of the Mexicans, the Arti-
fice with which he offered to quarter the Spaniards
in the City, and the Cowardice with which he
turned his Back on the firſt Rumour of Danger:
And lastly, they informed him, That the Perfon
of the Cazique was fo much abhorred by his Vaf-
fals, that inſtead of regretting his Abfence, they
rejoiced at it as a Happineſs: A Difpofition which
Hernan Cortes endeavoured to confirm them in,
becauſe it imported him much, to make Advan-
tage of this their Difaffection to their Prince, for
the more fecure Eftablishment of his Place of
Arms; and the Anfwer they returned him was ex-
actly agreeable to his Wiſhes. For the moſt An-
tient of the Nobles perceiving the End to which
his Queſtions tended, informed him, That Cacu-
mazin, Lord of Tezeuco, was not the right Owner
of that Country, but one of the most monstrous Tyrants
that Nature had produced, having killed his elder Bro-
ther Nezabal with his own Hands, and ſeized his
Crown; that the Prince who, as first of all the
Nobles, had addreſſed him in the Name of all, was
lawful Son of the murthered King, and that either
his Youth, or the Contempt the Tyrant had of him,
had been his Security; that he, being fenfible of the
Danger which threatened him, bad fo prudently con-
cealed his Senfe of the Injury done him, that his Dif-
fimulation paſſed for Want of Understanding; that
all this Wickedefs had been done with the Knowledge
and by the Affiftance of the Emperor of Mexico, who
reigned before Motezuma, and that the prefent Em-
peror fupported Cacumazin in like Manner, that be
might
•
272 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
might make him his Inftrument for the Deftruction of
the Spaniards. But that the Nobles of Tezeuco
mortally abborred bis Violences, and the common Peo-
ple could no longer endure his Government; for that,
inſtead of treating them like Subjects, he used them
as his Slaves.
THUS did the old Man deliver his Thoughts,
and Cortes had fcarce heard him out, when it im-
mediately occured to him what was fit to be done.
He went up to the difpoffeft Prince with fome-
what more of Refpect, and placing him by his
Side, he called together the reſt of the Nobles,
who were expecting his Refolution, and command-
ing his Interpreters to explain aloud what he faid,
ſpoke to them after this manner; You have here
before you, my Friends, the lawful Son of your law-
ful King. The unjust Master, to whofe ill-acquired
Power you pay a forced Obedience, feized the Sceptre
of Tezeuco, with a Hand dyed in the Blood of his
elder Brother; and, as the Art of preferving Domi-
nion is unknown to a Tyrant, he has governed by
the fame Violence that he made himſelf a King; little
caring bow much he deferved the Hatred of his Sub-
jetts, provided he made them fear him, and treating
thofe like Slaves who bore with his Crimes. But at
laft, by bafely abandoning of you in Time of Danger,
and neglecting your Defence, be bath at once fhewed
bis own Want of Courage, and put it in your Power
to redress your Misfortunes. I might, if I were not
otherwife inclined, take Advantage of your defence-
lefs Condition, and use the Rights of War, by ſubject-
ing this City, which I hold, as you fee, at the Plea-
fure of my Sword: but 'tis with Difficulty that the
Spaniards confent to do a Hardbip; and as he that did
us the Injury, was not really your King, you ought
not to fuffer as bis Vaffals, nor for his Offence, nor
ught this Prince to remain without the Kingdom,
which
Book V.
Conquest of Mexico.
273
which Nature bestowed upon him.
Receive then
from my Hand, the Prince whom you before received
from Heaven. Pay him for my Sake that Obedience
you owe him as the Succeſſor of his Father, and place
him on the Throne of his Anceſtors; for, as I lefs
regard my own Conveniency, than I do Equity and
Justice, I defire his Friendſhip more than his King-
dom, and your Satisfaction, rather than your Sub-
jection.
THIS Propoſal of Cortes was received by the
Nobles with great Applauſe. They were freed from
their Fears, and at the fame time obtained all that
they defired. Some threw themſelves at his Feet,
extolling his Benignity, whilſt others, more mind-
ful of their natural Obligation, advanced to kifs the
Hand of their Prince. The News was preſently
publiſhed through the City, and the Satisfaction of
the People appeared by their Acclamations, Dances,
and Plays, fuch as they uſed on their Feftivals,
with all other cuftomary Demonftrations of their
mad Joy.
THE next Day was appointed for the Coronation
of the new King, which was celebrated with all the
ufual Ceremonies and Solemnities. Hernan Cortes
afſiſted at it, as Diſpenſer or Donor of the Crown;
by this Means ſharing in the Applauſe of the
People, and gaining a more abfolute Empire over
them, than if he had conquered them. This excel-
lent piece of Conduct was one of thoſe which juſtly
acquired him the Character of a prudent General:
For it was of the utmoſt Importance to him to
fecure this City, in order to purfue his Enterprize
upon Mexico; and he found the Way of ob-
liging the new King with the greateſt of world.
ly Benefits; of interefting the Nobility in his
Reftitution, rendering them irreconcileable with
the Tyrant; of gaining the Common People, by
his Equity and Difintereſtedneſs; and laftly, of
VOL. II.
making
T
274
The HISTORY of the Book V.
making his Quarters fafe and fecure, which by no
other Means could have been effected. But his
greateſt Satisfaction was, that in redreffing the In-
jury done to the young Prince, he followed the
Dictates of right Reafon; a Confideration to which
he gave the Preference before all the other Advan-
tages which attended this Part of his Conduct; it
being much more agreeable to his Genius to do
Acts of Generofity, than ftrictly to purfue the
Meaſures which Prudence might direct for his In-
tereft.
+
CHA P. XII.
The new King of Tezeuco is baptized with
publick Solemnity; Cartes marches with Part
of the Army to poffefs himself of the City of
Iztapalapa, where he stands in need of all
his Circumfpection, to prevent falling into
an Ambush prepared by the Mexicans.
ERNAN CORTES was applauded, and
HER
reſpected even to Veneration among thofe
People: The Nobles declared themfelves his Friends,
and at the fame time Enemies to the Mexicans:
The City was intirely repeopled by the Return of
thofe Families which had retired to the Mountains;
and the Prince himſelf was fo fubmiffive and obfe-
quious to Cortes, that he not only offered his
Troops, and to ferve in Perfon in the War of
Mexico, but alfo took his Opinion in every thing
he did: And tho', when he was among his own
People, he commanded as a King, yet when he
came into the Prefence of Cortes, he appeared as a
Subject,
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
275
Subject, and reſpected him as his Superior. He
was about nineteen or twenty Years of Age, and
had the Capacity of a Man born in a Country lefs
barbarous. Hernan Cortes took Advantage of his
good Difpofition to introduce fometimes the Dif
courfe of Religion; and found by his Attention,
and Way of reaſoning, a Kind of Propenfion to
what was moſt fafe, which gave him Hopes of
bringing him over to Chriftianity: For he was dif
pleafed with the barbarous Sacrifices of the Indians,
thought Cruelty to be a Vice, and confeffed that
thofe Gods who were to be appeafed with the Blood
of Men, could not be Friends to Mankind. Father
Bartolome de Olmedo bore a Part in thefe Converfa-
tions; and finding him not only wavering in his
Errors, but inclined to the Truth, he brought him
in a few Days to be capable of receiving Baptifm;
the Ceremony of which was performed publickly,
and with great Solemnity, the Prince defiring to
take the Name of Don Hernando Cortes, in Refpect
to his Godfather.
THEY were now at work upon the Canals which
conveyed the Waters of the Lake to the City,
and the Prince fent fix or ſeven thouſand of his
Vaffals to help to make them broader and deeper,
according to the Meaſure of the Brigantines. And
Cortes at the fame time, defiring to undertake fome-
thing to facilitate the Enterprize upon Mexico, re-
folved to advance with Part of his Forces to the
City of Iztapalapa, fix Leagues forwards, that he
might deprive the Mexicans of that Shelter for
their Canoes, which very often came from thence,
and diſturbed his Workmen; and partly to give
the confederate Indians fome Employment, who
were kept quiet in the midft of this Idlenefs by
pure Force of Authority, and not without coft-
ing
T 2
276
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
ing him a good deal of tireſome Attention and
Care.
THE City of Iztapalapa (as we have already
obferved) was fituate upon the fame Caufway by
which the Spaniards made their firft Entry into
Mexico; and difpofed after fuch a Manner, that
the greateſt Part of the Buildings (which were
above ten Thouſand Houſes) was within the Lake,
whofe Water was brought into that Part of the
Town, which was built on the Bank, by Trenches,
with Sluices to let it in, as Occafion required.
Hernan Cortes charged himſelf with the Care of this
Expedition, and took with him the Captains Pedro
de Alvarado and Christoval de Olid, with three
Hundred Spaniards, and ten Thouſand Tlafcalans:
and though the young King of Tezeuco was defi-
rous to accompany him, he would not permit it,
telling him, his Prefence would be more uſeful in
the City; the military Government of which he left
to Gonzalo de Sandoval, and with both of them
fuch Inftructions as he thought neceffary for the
Security of their Quarters, and to obviate the Ac-
cidents that might happen in his Abfence.
THEY preſently began their March by the Cauf-
way, with a Defign to poffefs themſelves firſt of
that Part of the City which was built upon it, and
diflodge the Inhabitants from the other Part with
their Artillery and Fire-Arms, as Occaſion ſhould
offer. But the Enemy was immediately informed
of their Motions, and the Army was no fooner
come within Sight of the Place, than they difco-
vered a Body of about eight Thouſand Men at a
little Diſtance from the Walls, who came out to
defend them with fo much Refolution, that tho'
they found themſelves inferior in Number, they
ftood the Engagement, and fought with Bravery
enough to retire with fome Reputation; which
they
Book V.
277
Conquest of MEXICO.
they did in little Time to the City, where, with-
out ftaying to defend the Entrance, or fhut the
Gates they inftantly diſappeared, throwing them-
felves into the Lake in Diſorder, but with the fame
Cries and Menacing Geftures which they ufed in
fighting.
HERNAN CORTES was fenfible, that this Kind
of Retreat had the Appearance of a Stratagem to
draw him into fome greater Danger; and there-
fore marched his Army into the City with all pof-
fible Precaution; but he found all the Houfes upon
the Land utterly abandoned: and tho' the Noiſe
and Cries of the Enemy continued in that Part
which ſtood in the Water, he refolved, with the
Advice of his Captains, to maintain himſelf in the
Poſt where he was, and lodge within the Walls,
without attempting any Thing farther, the Day
being too far fpent. But it fcarce began to be
dark, when they perceived the Canals every-where
to overflow, the Water running impetuoufly to
the lower Grounds. Cortes immediately underſtood
that the Enemy's Defign was to drown this Part
of the City, which they might eafily do, by open-
ing the Sluices of the great Lake; and as the
Danger was inevitable, he was obliged to give
inſtant Orders to quit the Place; and tho' they
made all the Hafte poffible, the Water came
above their Knees.
CORTES was very much mortified, and diffatif-
fied with himſelf, that he had not prevented this
Stratagem of the Indians, as if it was poffible,
with the utmoft Vigilance, to provide againſt all
Accidents, or human Forefight had not its Bounds.
He drew out his Army into the Road of Tezeuco,
to which Place he thought to retire, deferring the
Enterprize of Iztapalapa to a more favourable Op-
portunity; for it was impracticable at this Time,
without
T
I 3
278
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
without a greater Force on the Lake-Side, and
fome Veffels to drive the Mexicans from that Place..
The Troops lodged that Night, as well as they
could, on a little Hill free from the Water;
where, nevertheleſs, they fuffered very much, be-
ing very wet, and without any Defence againſt the
Cold; but in fuch good Heart, that there was
not the leaſt Murmur heard among the Soldiers:
And Cortes, who went among the Ranks infufing
Patience by his Example, ftrove by threatning Dif-
courfes againſt the Enemy either to cover his own
Uneafinefs at having been deceived, or to divert
the Soldiers from calling his Prudence into Que-
ftion.
AT the first Appearance of Day, he continued his
Retreat, and haftened the March of his Men, rather
to keep them warm, than from any Fear he had
of a new Attack; but as foon as it was broad Day,
they diſcovered a Body of innumerable Enemies,
which came in Purfuit of the Army. Cortes, not-
withſtanding this, marched on, but more flowly;
his Defign was to weary the Enemy by prolonging
the Chace; tho' the Soldiers moved on very un-
willingly they all cried out to halt, that they
might take Satisfaction, fome for the Affront, and
others for the Hardſhips they had fuffered, accord-
ing to the different Paffions by which they were
animated; but all with a Spirit of Vengeance
against their Enemies.
WHEN Cortes thought it convenient, he ordered
his Troops to halt and Face about, and the Ene-
mies began the Attack with the fame Precipita-
tion that they purfued; but the Spanish Crofs-Bows
(for the Powder having fuffered by the Water, the
Fire-Arms were of no Ufe) and the Bows of the
Tlafcalans, gave a Check to their firft Fury, and at
the fame time the Horfe charged them, making
Room
Book V.
279
Conquest of Mexico.
Room for the Confederate Troops, who intirely
broke that diforderly Multitude, and obliged them
to leave the Field with confiderable Lofs.
CORTES purfued his March, without ftopping
to make any further Slaughter of the Fugitives,
becauſe he had a mind to reach his Quarters be-
fore Night: But the Enemy, no lefs diligent in
rallying than retiring, advanced a fecond and third
time to the Attack, without being in the leaft ter-
rified with the great Slaughter they had fuftained;
till fuch time as, fearing to approach too near to
Tezeuco, where the whole Strength of the Spani
ards lay, they marched back to Iztapalapa, fuf-
ficiently chaſtized for their Boldnefs, having loft
in the three Attacks, Six thouſand Men; and tho❜
Cortes had fome wounded, he loft only two Tlafca-
lans, and one Horſe, who, covered with Arrows
and Cuts, yet lived to bring off his Maſter.
CORTES, and all his Army, celebrated this Be-
ginning of their Revenge, as a Satisfaction for
what they had fuffered; and a little before Night
they entered the City of Tezeuco, with the Glory
of three or four Victories obtained by the Way,
which gave a Reputation to the Expedition, and
covered the Disgrace of the Retreat.
It can't be denied, but that the Mexicans laid
their Deſign well: they fallied out to provoke the
Enemy; fuffered themſelves to be charged in order
to engage them; feigned a Retreat to draw them
into Danger; abandoned their Houfes, which
they endeavoured to lay under Water; and had
provided a great Force to fecure the Succeſs.
Let thofe who difcredit this War with the Indi-
ans, now confider whether their Armies were,
as they fay, Herds of Cattle, and whether they
wanted Underſtanding to make a Difpofition, fince
they allowed them a brutal Courage to execute.
Hernan Cortes ftood in need of his utmoft Diligence
I A
to
280
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
to eſcape their Snares, and not only admired, but
even envyed their well-concerted Stratagem; theſe
Policies or Deceits by which Enemies are furprized,
being what Soldiers much glory in, efteeming them
not only reaſonable, but juſt; and more particular-
ly, when the War is juft in which they are prac-
tifed: But in my Opinion, it is fufficient to call
them permitted, tho' in fome Refpects they may
be likewife ftyled juft, as when puniſhing Carelef-
nefs and Inadvertency, which are the greateſt
Faults, that can be committed in War,
CHA P. XIII.
C
The Provinces of Chalco and Otumba apply
to Cortes for Relief against the Mexicans.
He orders Gonzalo de Sandoval, and Fran-
cifco de Lugo, upon that Expedition; they
overthrow the Enemy, and take fome Pri-
foners of Rank, by whofe means Cortes makes
Propofitions of Peace to the Mexican Em-
peror.
WHI
THILST Cortes remained in Tezeuco, he
received frequent Vifits from the neigh-
bouring Caziques, and other Indians, who came
to make their Submiffions, and offer him the Af
fiftance of their Troops. They all complained of
the Emperor's ill Treatment, by whofe Soldiers
they were oppreffed and plundered, and treated
with equal Contempt and Inhumanity. Among the
reft, there came at that time Meffengers in great
Hafte from the Provinces of Chalco and Otumba,
with an Account that there was a powerful Army
of
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
281
of the Enemy upon their Frontiers, who had
Commiffion to chaſtife and deftroy them, for ha-
ving made an Alliance with the Spaniards. They
expreffed a Refolution to oppoſe the Mexicans, and
defired fome Succour to affift in their Defence.
This Requeſt appeared not only reaſonable, but
neceffary to be granted; for it imported Cortes
very much not to fuffer the Mexicans to fix them-
ſelves in a Place where they might cut off his Com-
munication with Tlafcala, which was to be preferved
at all Hazards. He immediately difpatched Gon-
zalo de Sandoval, and Francifco de Lugo, with two
hundred Spaniards, Fifteen Horſe, and a fufficient
Body of Tlafcalans, among whom there were fome
who had obtained Permiffion by their Importunity
to retire to their own Country, and fecure the
Spoils they had acquired in the War; a Permiffion
which Cortes thought fit to grant, becauſe as he ex-
pected a freſh Recruit of Troops from the Repub-
lick, it behoved him to allure thofe People by the
Hopes of Intereft, and this Shew of Liberty.
THESE miferable Wretches having thus changed
themſelves from Soldiers into Porters, marched
along with the Baggage of the Army; and as
Avarice regulated the Weight of their Burdens,
they had fo overloaded themſelves, that they could
not always keep up with the Troops, but were
forced to ſtop fometimes to take Breath. The
Mexicans, (who, with the Army they had upon
the Lake, had planted ſeveral Ambufcades in the
Fields of Maiz) being advertiſed of this, fell upon
them in one of their Refting-places, with a feem-
ing Defign not only to plunder them, but by their
great Cries, and forming their Battalions, to pro-
voke the Spaniards to a Battle. Sandoval and Lugo
returned immediately to their Relief, and haftening
their March, fell upon the Enemy fo opportunely
and
282 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
and vigorously with their whole Force, that they
turned their Backs as foon as they were attacked.
FIVE or Six Tlafcalans, who were difarmed and
embaraffed with their Burdens, perifhed upon this
Occafion; but the Spaniards recovered all the
Booty, with fome additional Spoils of the Enemy.
They continued their March, taking Care not to
leave again behind them thoſe unufeful People;
with whom they were incumbered, till the Army,
having paffed the Province of Chalco, approached
the Frontiers of Tlafcala, where they feparated from
it to go and fecure their Baggage, freeing Sandoval
from any further Care of their Defence.
THE Mexicans had affembled all the Troops of
the neighbouring Provinces to chaftife the Rebels
of Chalco and Otumba; and knowing. that the Spa-
niards were coming to the Relief of thofe two
Nations, they had reinforced themſelves with Part
of the Troops quartered about the Lake; and ha-
ving thus prepared a very formidable Army, had-
pofted themfelves on the Road the Spaniards
were to pafs, with a Refolution to try their Strength
in the Field. Sandoval and Lugo, being advertiſed
of their Deſign, and having given what Orders
they thought neceffary, advanced in Order of Bat-
tel without altering their Pace. But on Sight of
the Enemy, the Spaniards and Tlaftalans halted,
(the former with a calm Intrepidity, and the latter
with an Impatience hardly to be reftrained) in order
to examine more narrowly the Intention of that
Body of Troops. The Mexicans had the Advan-
tage in Numbers; and with the Ambition of being
the firſt to attack, advanced in Crowds, according
to their Cuſtom, and made the firſt Diſcharge of
their miffive Weapons without any Effect. The
two Captains, taking Advantage of their Confu-
fion, (after they had received them with their Fire-
Arms
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
283
Arms and Crofs-Bows) ordered the Horfe to ad-
vance, whofe Attack (always terrible to the Indi-
ans) immediately made Room for the Spaniards
and Tlafcalans to enter, and break this diſorderly
Multitude with a very great Slaughter. The Flight
of the Enemy foon became univerfal, and the
Troops of Chalco and Otumba, which had fallied
out of the neighbouring Town on the Noife of the
Battle, coming up at the fame Time, the Chace
was fo bloody, that the Mexican Army was intire-
ly defeated, and the two Confederate Provinces
fuccoured, with little or no Lofs.
EIGHT of the moſt confiderable Prifoners were
referved, in order to get fome Information from
them, and the Army pafs'd that Night to the City
of Chalco; whofe Cazique, after he had paid his
Refpects to the Spaniards, went before to prepare
their Quarters, with great Abundance of Proviſions
and Refreſhments for all the Troops: Nor did he
forget to have the Victory celebrated with Re-
joicings, after the ufual extravagant Manner of
the People. The Inhabitants of Chalco, as Sub-
jects of the Mexican Emperor, were Enemies to
the Tlafcalans, and had befides perpetual Diſputes
with them about the Bounds of their Frontiers;
but this Night all their Quarrels were forgot at the
Defire of the Chalquefes, who owned the Obligation
they had to the Tlafcalans for coming to their
Relief, and were alfo fenfible, that the Means of
preferving the Protection of Cortes, was to main-
tain a Friendſhip with his Confederates. The Spa-
niards were Mediators in the Treaty; and the
Chiefs of both Nations being affembled, Peace
was concluded with all the neceffary Forms and
Solemnities ufual on fuch Occafions; Sandoval and
Luga undertaking to get it confirmed by Cortes,
and
284
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
and the Tlafcalans to have it ratified by the Re-
publick.
THIS Affair being finiſhed with ſo much Glory
and Expedition, Sandoval and Lugo marched back
with the Army to Tezeuco, accompanied by the
Cazique of Chalco, and fome other principal Indi-
ans, who defired to return Thanks in Perſon to the
General for the Succour he had fent them, and to
offer him what Troops the two Provinces could
furniſh. The Army was received at Tezeuco with
great Acclamations of Applaufe, and Cortes ho-
noured the two Captains with particular Marks of
his Approbation, without forgetting the Chiefs of
the Tlafcalans: He likewife careffed the Nobles of
Chalco, accepting their Offers, and intimating that
he would give them Notice when their Service
would be neceffary. After this, he ordered the
eight Mexican Prifoners to be brought before him;
he received them in the midft of his Captains, put-
ting on an Air of Severity. They approached full
of Fear and Confufion, fhewing in their Counte-
nances a dejected Spirit, and a Mind ill-difpofed to
receive the Puniſhment, which, according to their
own Cuſtoms, they believed inevitable. Cortes
ordered them to be unbound, and defiring to make
ufe of this Opportunity to juſtify to his Allies the
War, which he had undertaken, by making farther
Advances towards a Peace, and at the fame time
to convince his Enemies of his Generofity, he fpoke
to them, by the Help of his Interpreters, after the
following Manner: I might, according to the Custom
eſtabliſhed in your Nation, and that kind of Justice
upon which the Laws of War are founded, take Sa-
tisfaction of your Offences with Fire and Sword, treat-
ing you with the fame Inhumanity, with which you
treat your Prisoners. But the Spaniards do not think,
that the being taken in the Service of one's King is a
Crime
Book V.
285
Conquest of MEXICO.
Crime that deferves Punishment; for we know how to
diftinguish between the Culpable and the Unfortunate;
and that you may be fenfible of the Difference between
our Clemency and your Cruelty, I give you at the fame
time both Life and Liberty. Repair immediately to
the Standard of your Prince, and tell him from me,
(for, as you are noble, you ought to obferve the Law
with which you receive the Benefit) That I am com-
ing to demand Satisfaction of him for the unjuſt
War he made upon me at the Time of my Retreat
from Mexico, perfidiously breaking that Treaty by
which I obliged my felf to leave the City; but chiefly
to revenge the Death of the great Motezuma, the
principal Motive of my Anger. Tell him, I have an
Army, not only augmented with a Number of invinci-
ble Spaniards, but that I have likewife under my
Command all the Nations who abbor the Mexican
Name; and that in a little time I intend to Seek
him in the midst of his Court, bringing with me all the
Rigours of a War that has Heaven to favour it, re-
folved never to lay afide fo just an Indignation, till
I have laid all the Towns of his Empire in Afbes,
and drowned the very Remembrance of his Name in
the Blood of his Subjects: But that nevertheless, if
for the avoiding his own Ruin, and the Defolation of
bis Country, he fhall incline to Peace, I am ready to
grant it upon reaſonable Conditions; for the Arms of
my King (like the Lightnings of Heaven) hurt only
where they find Refiftance, and are always more ready
to obey the Dictates of Humanity, than the Incite-
ments of Revenge.
THE General having concluded his Difcourfe,
appointed a Spanish Efcort for the eight Prifoners,
and ordered a Bark to carry them back by the
Lake. The Prifoners, fcarcely perfuaded of their
Good-fortune, threw themfelves at his Feet, pro-
mifing to acquaint their Prince with his Overtures,
and
286
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
and to contribute all that lay in their Power, to
wards facilitating the Peace: but they did not re-
turn with any Anfwer; nor did Hernan Cortes
make thefe Advances, with a Belief that the Mexi-
cans would incline to Peace; but for a further Jufti-
fication of the War he had undertaken, and to raiſe
the Reputation of his Clemency among the Barba-
rians; a Virtue ufeful to Conquerors, becauſe it
diſpoſes favourably the Minds of thoſe they defign
to fubject, and appearing always amiable, even to
Enemies, either gains the Applauſe of thoſe who
have the Ufe of Reafon, or forces a Reſpect from
thoſe who have it not.
CHA P. XIV.
Gonzalo de Sandoval conducts the Brigantines
to Tezeuco. Whilst they are finishing, Her-
nan Cortes marches out with Part of his
Army to view the Borders of the Lake.
A ¹
T this time Cortes had an Account that the
Brigantines were finifhed; and Martin Lopez
fent him Word, That he would quickly fet for-
ward with them, the Republick of Tlafcala having
provided ten Thoufand Tamenes, or Carriers of
Burdens; eight Thouſand to carry the Planks,
Mafts, Iron-work, and other neceffary Materials,
and two Thousand as a Relief for thofe who tired,
without including in this Number the Men who
were employed in carrying Provifions and Ammu-
nition; and fifteen or twenty Thoufand Soldiers,
with their Officers, who waited this Opportunity to
join the Army. He fent word, that he intended
to
Book V.
287
Conquest of MEXICO.
to ſet out with theſe Forces next Day, and that he
would ſtay in the laſt Town of the Tlaſcalans tọ
expect a Convoy of Spaniards, not thinking it ad-
vifeable to attempt the dangerous Paffage thro' the
Mexican Territories without a greater Force. Theſe
Brigantines were the only Preparation wanting to
lay cloſe Siege to Mexico, and Hernan Cortes re-
ceived this News with fo much Satisfaction, as
cauſed a general Joy in the Army. He immedi-
ately ordered Gonzalo de Sandoval, with two Hun-
dred Spaniards, fifteen Horfe, and fome Compa-
nies of Tlafcalans, to march and join the Forces
of the Republick, that they might be in a Condi-
tion to reſiſt any Attempts of the Mexicans.
ANTONIO DE HERRERA fays, there marched out
of Tlafcala, with the Materials of the Brigantines,
a Hundred and eighty Thouſand Soldiers; which
being fo very unlikely, we muft believe it to be
one of the Errors of the Prefs. Bernal Diaz fays
fifteen Thouſand, which is much more probable,
confidering the Number of Tlafcalans already in
the Army. The Republick gave the Command of
this Body to a Cazique of one of the Quarters of
their City, whofe Name was Chichemecal, a young
Man of Twenty-three Years of Age, but of ſuch
a fuperior Spirit and Courage, that they already
confidered him as one of the moft confiderable
Captains of their Nation. Martin Lopez marched
out of Tlaſcala, refolving to wait the Spaniſh Eſcorte
in Gualipar, a Town but little diftant from the
Mexican Frontiers. Chichemecal was not pleafed
with this Delay, perfuading himſelf that he had
Force and Courage fufficient to defend the Con-
voy againſt all the Power of Mexico: However,
he at laſt refolved to obferve the Orders of Cortes,
and thought this Inftance of his Obedience a great
Exploit. Lopez regulated the March, fo that all
went
288
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
went out of the Town in good Order; the Archers
and Slingers, ſupported by fome Pike-Men, march-
ed in the Front; after whom came the Tamenes
with all their Baggage; and the reft of the Troops
formed the Rear: And after this manner they be-
gan that extraordinary Affair of carrying Veffels by
Land, which (if it were permitted us to uſe Me-
taphors, which are ſometimes met with in Hiſtory)
might be faid to begin now to float upon the
Shoulders of Men, among the Waves formed by
the different Movements, which the Inequality of
the Ground occafioned. An admirable Invention
of Cortes, then put in Practice! but which, when
related, looks more like a Dream than a Reality.
In the mean time, Gonzalo de Sandoval fet for-
ward for Tlafcala, and ftopped one Day in Zule-
peque, a fmall Town at a little Diſtance from the
Road; which refuſed Obedience, and was befides
the very Place where thoſe poor Spaniards of Vera-
Cruz, who were going to Mexico, were betrayed
and murdered. He had Orders, either to chaſtize
or fubject that Town in his March; but the Army
had no fooner turned their Faces that Way, than
the Inhabitants abandoned the Place, and fled to
the Mountains. Sandoval fent three or four Com-
panies of Tlafcalans, with fome Spaniards, in Pur-
fuit of the Fugitives; and entering the Town, his An-
ger and Impatience increaſed at the lamentable
Marks he met with of their paſt Barbarity: on
one of the Walls he found thefe Words written
with a Coal, In this Houſe the unhappy Juan Jufte
was taken, with many others his Companions. And
a little after, in one of their Temples, he found
the Heads of thofe Spaniards dried in the Fire to
preſerve them from Corruption: A dreadful Spec-
tacle! which giving a freſh Idea of their terrible
Death, made the Images and Reprefentations of
the
Book V.
289
Conquest of MEXICO.
the Devil appear ftill more hideous. At this Sight,
Pity infpired them with Rage, and Sondoval refol-
ved to march out with all his Men, and revenge
that execrable Cruelty with the utmoft Rigour.
He had already given his Orders, when the Com-
panies which he had before detached, returned with
a great Number of Priſoners, Men, Women, and
Children, having killed upon the Mountains all
who endeavoured to efcape, or did not immediate-
ly furrender. Thefe miferable Wretches, bound,
and almoſt dead with Fear, teftified their Repen-
tance by Tears, and pitiful Out-cries; they threw
themſelves at the Feet of the Spaniards, and quick-
ly moved them to Compaffion.
Sandoval made
his Officers intreat him, that the Prifoners might
fet the greater Value upon their Pardon; and, in
fine, he cauſed them to be unbound, and accepted
their Submiffions; the Cazique, and the moſt con-
fiderable Men among them, engaging for the
whole Town, to be obedient to the King: of which
Engagement they afterwards difcharged themſelves
very faithfully, either through Fear or Acknow-
ledgment.
AFTER this, Sandoval ordered his Men to gather
up the miſerable Remains of the facrificed Spani-
ards, and give them Burial; and continued his
March to the Frontiers of Tlafcala, where he ar-
rived without any confiderable Accident. Martin
Lopez and Chichemecal, with the Tlafcalans drawn
up in Rank and File, came forth to receive him
The two Armies faluted each other by Dif-
charges and Shouts, and afterwards by Embraces,
and particular Civilities. Some neceffary time of
Reft was allowed to the Troops newly arrived;
after which, Sandoval directed the March, giving
the Van-guard to the Spaniards and Tlafcalans which
came with him, the Main Body to the Tamenes,
VOL. II.
U
with
Į
290
The HISTORY of the
ہے
Book V.
with fufficient Numbers to defend their Flanks;
and Chicbemecal with his Troops brought up the
Rear: But the young Man was difpleafed, that he
was not placed in a more advanced Poſt; and his
Difcontent went fo far, as to give Sandoval Sufpi-
cion of his quitting the Army; fo that he was ob-
liged to go to him, and take fome Pains to fatisfy
him. He endeavoured to make him comprehend,
that his Poft was the moſt honourable, as being the
moft dangerous; for that in all Probability the Mexi-
cans would endeavour to fall upon the Rear. But
this did not in the leaft fatisfy him; on the con-
trary, he replied, That as at the Affault of Mexico,
be intended to be the first that should fet his Foot
within the Breach, he defired always to march in the
Front, and give an Example to his Troops: So that,
in fine, Sandoval was obliged to march with him,
to add to the Honour of the Rear. A remarkable
Point of Vanity! and one of thoſe which are wont
to produce the greateft Inconveniencies in Armies;
for the principal Duty of a Soldier is Obedience,
and true Valour has its Bounds prefcribed by Rea-
fon, which always carries a brave Man to face the
Dangers which approach him, with an unfhaken
Refolution, but doth not in the leaſt oblige him to
go to feek them.
THE Army marched in the fame Order it at firft
fet out, thro' the Enemies Country; and tho' the
Mexicans fhewed themſelves fometimes upon diftant
Hills, they did not venture to come to an Engage-
ment, but thought their Cries and Menaces a fuf-
ficient Exploit.
AT a little Diſtance from Tezeuco the Army
made a Halt, out of Complaifance to Chichemecal,
who defired fome Time of Sandoval to adorn him-
ſelf with his beſt Feathers and Jewels, and ordered
all his Officers to do the fame; telling them,
That
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
291
That as they were now drawing near to Action, Sol-
diers ought to celebrate fuch a Seafon as a Festival:
A Rhodomontade well enough becoming his Pride
and Years. Hernan Cortes went out of the City,
attended by the King of Tezeuco, and all his Cap-
tains, to receive this fo much defired Succour; and
after he had careffed the Chiefs, and allowed fome
Time for the Acclamations of the Soldiers, he
made his Entry with all Solemnity: The Tamenes
marched in Files like the Soldiers; the Planks,
Iron-work, and other Materials, where ftored fepa-
rately in a great Workhouſe, prepared for that
Purpoſe near the Canals. The whole Army re-
joiced at the fafe Arrival of thefe Preparations fo
neceffary for the Conqueft of Mexico, which was
equally defired by all. Cortes returned Thanks to
God, who rewarded the Piety of his Intentions
with Hopes, or rather Affurances, of Victory.
MARTIN LOPEZ immediately applied himſelf to
the ſecond Part in the Formation of the Brigantines,
and had new Workmen appointed him for the join-
ing of the Planks, and other Work belonging to
the building of a Ship. But Cortes underſtanding
by the Mafter-Workmen, that it would be at leaſt
Twenty Days before the Brigantines could be fit
for Service, he refolved to employ that Time in
viewing perfonally the Country about the Lake,
and what Poſts were fit to be feized, to prevent
any Succours from Mexico; and withal, to do what
Damage he could to the Enemy in his March.
He communicated this Defign to his Captains,
and it being approved by all, he immediately made
a Difpofition to execute it; leaving Sandoval Go-
vernor of Tezeuco, with particular Orders to for-
ward the building of the Brigantines. This Cap-
tain was qualified for every thing; and, by the
Multitude of Bufinefs in which Cortes employed
U 2
him,
i
1
292
The HISTORY of the Book V.
him, he fufficiently fhewed the great Opinion he
had of his Courage and Capacity.
WHILST Cortes was confidering what Officers
and Troops to take with him on this Expedition,
Chichemecal defired an Audience; and, without
knowing that Preparations were making to take
the Field, told him, That Men like him, born for
War, were ill fatisfied with living idly in their Quar-
ters, especially after having paſſed five Days without
drawing the Sword; That his Men were refreshed,
and defired to fhew themselves to their Enemy; and
that, moved by their Inftances, and the Ardour of his
own Courage, he humbly requested to be ordered im-
mediately upon fome Expedition, wherein he might
give Proofs of his Valour, and divert himself with
the Mexicans, until the Time came of compleating
their Deſtruction, at the Affault of their City. Cortes
had already refolved to take him with him, but
this unfeaſonable Vanity difpleafed him, and as he
was not very well fatisfied with his Behaviour upon the
Road, (of which Sandoval had informed him) he
anfwered him in a kind of Raillery, That he had
not only concluded upon an Action of Importance,
wherein he might affuage that Ardour which inflamed
him; but that he was likewife refolved to accompany
him, to be a Witness of his Exploits. Cortes had a na-
tural Diſlike to arrogant Boafters, true Valour being
feldom feen without Modefty: Nevertheleſs, he
was fenfible that thefe Tranfports of Bravery were
proper to his Years, being the Effects of youthful
Blood, and the common Fault of young Soldiers,
who have met with Succefs in their firft Trials, and
whofe want of Experience makes them think Va-
lour to be Fool-hardinefs, and Fool-hardineſs to be
their Profeffion.
+
CHAP
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
293
CHA P. XV.
Hernan Cortes marches to Yaltocan, where he
meets with Refiftance; he overcomes that
Difficulty, and goes forward with his Army
to Tacuba; and after having vanquished thẹ
Mexicans in feveral Engagements, makes his
Retreat.
T was thought proper to begin the Expedition
by the taking of Yaltocan, a Town five Leagues
diſtant from Tezeuco, upon one of the little Lakes
which difcharged itſelf into the great one.
It was
of Importance to chaſtize the Inhabitants of this
Place, becauſe fome few Days before they had re-
turned an infolent Anfwer, and wounded the Mef-
fengers who were fent to them with Offers of
Peace, and to require their Obedience; and be-
cauſe their Punishment might have an Influence
upon the rest of the Indians thereabouts. Cortes
began his March after having heard Maſs, (whereat
all the Spaniards affifted) leaving particular Inftruc-
tions with Sandoval, and giving fome friendly Ad-
vice to the King of Tezeuco, Xicotencal, and other
Chiefs of the Nations who ftayed behind in the
City. He took with him the Captains Pedro de
Alvarado and Chriftoval de Olid, with two Hundred
and Fifty Spaniards, Twenty Horfe, and a ſplendid
numerous Body of the Nobles of Tezeuco. Chi-
chemecal likewife attended him with his fifteen Thou-
fand Tlafcalans, to which were joined five Thour
fand Men of thofe commanded by Xicotencal. They
had not marched above four Leagues, before they
diſcovered the Mexicans drawn up in Order of
Battle, and divided into feveral grofs Battalions,
with a Defign, as it feemed, to defend in the open
U 3
Field
294
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
Field the Place threatened. But upon the first
Diſcharge of the Fire-Arms, and Croſs-Bows, which
was followed by an Attack of the Horfe, they
were put into fuch Diſorder, that being charged
by the whole Army, they were utterly broken and
defeated in fo fhort a time, that it was fcarce per-
ceivable they made any Reſiſtance; the greateſt
Part faved themſelves upon the Mountains, others
threw themſelves into the Lake, and fome retreated
to the Town of Yaltocan, leaving a great Number of
Dead and Wounded upon the Field of Battle, and
fome Priſoners, who were immediately fent to Te-
Zeuco.
THE Affault upon the Town was deferred till the
next Day, and the Army poffeffed themſelves of
fome Houſes that ſtood near, where they paffed the
Night without any extraordinary Accident. When
Day appeared, they found the Difficutlty of the En-
terprize greater than they imagined: the Town was
fituated in the very Lake, and had a Communica-
tion with the Land by a Cauſey, or Stone-Bridge,
the Water being likewife eaſily forded in that Place:
But the Mexicans who guarded that Poft, had broke
the Caufey, and had befides made a ditch fo deep,
that it was impoffible to pafs over it any other Way
than by fwimming. Cortes advanced full of Affu-
rance to carry the Place at once, and when he found
this unhappy Obftacle in his Way, he was for a
while both confounded and vexed, but the Rail-
leries and Scoffings with which the Enemy cele-
brated their Security, made him fee that he could
not defift from his Undertaking, without manifeft
Hazard to his Reputation.
He was contriving how to fill up the Ditch with
Faſcines and Earth, when one of the Indians of
Tezeuco gave him to underſtand that a little higher
up there was a Shoal, where the Water fcarce co-
vered
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
295
vered the Ground. Cortes took the Man along
with him for a Guide, and immediately marched
to the Place: The Depth of the Water was tried,
and though found greater than was related, yet not
unfordable. He ordered two Companies of about
fifty or fixty Spaniards to make the Experiment,
with fuch a Number of the Allies as he thought
neceffary to make head againſt the Troops he faw
advancing to difpute the Paffage. He remained
himſelf on the Shore, with his Army drawn up,
that he might fend Succour as Occafion required,
and ſecure the Field againſt any Eruption of the
Mexicans.
THE Enemy perceiving that our Army was go-
ing to gain this Paffage, which they had endea-
voured to conceal, advanced to defend it with their
Slings and Arrows, wounding fome Soldiers, and
giving enough to do to thofe who fought in the
Water, which in fome Places took them up to the
Middle. Near the Town there was a pretty large
Plain, free from Water, and our Men with Fire-
Arms, who marched in the Front, were no ſooner
landed, but the Enemy retired into the Place; and
in the little Time that the reft of the Detachment
were coming afhore, they intirely quitted it, throw-
ing themſelves into their Canoes with fo much
Hafte, that the Spaniards entered the Town with-
out Oppofition. The Pillage did not laft long,
(though permitted, as a Part of the Chaftifement)
becauſe the Inhabitants had left nothing in their
Houſes, but what they could not carry off; fome
Loads, however, of Corn and Salt were tranſported
to the Army, together with a great Quantity of
Cotton-Cloths, and fome flight Jewels and Gold,
which the Owners either forgot, or defpifed. The
Captains had no Orders to keep Poffeffion of the
Town, but to puniſh the Inhabitants; and there-
U 4
fore,
dark
296
The HISTORY of the Book V.
fore, ftaying only fo long as was neceffary to per-
form their Commiffior, they re-paffed the Ditch at
the fame Place, having firft fet fire to the Temples,
and principal Buildings. The General approved
of this Conduct, believing that the Flames of this
Place would ftrike Terror into the Fugitives, and
be a Warning to the neighbouring Towns of the
Danger that threatened them.
THE Army continued their March, and lodged
that Night near Colbatitlan, a confiderable Town,
which the next Day they found difpeopled. The
Mexicans fhewed themfelves, but in a Place where
they could neither attack, nor be attacked. The
fame Thing happened at Tenayuca, and afterwards.
at Efcapuzalco, large Towns fituate upon the Lake-
fide, which they alſo found forfaken. The Army
lodged a Night in each of them, and Cortes took
exact Notice of the Diſtances, and of whatever elfe
might be uſeful to his Defign, without fuffering any
Damage to be done to the Buildings, that it might
be ſeen he uſed Rigour only where he found Re-
fiftance. The City of Tacuba was not above half a
League diſtant from this laft Place, and difputed
with Tezeuco for Largenefs, and Number of Inha-
bitants. It was fituated upon the Extremity of the
great Caufey, where the Spaniards had formerly fuf-
fered fo much, and was a Poft of great Importance,
as being, of all the Towns upon the Lake, the
neareſt to Mexico, and the Key of the Road which
the Army muft neceffarily pafs, in order to form
the Siege of that capital City; but at the prefent
the General had no Thoughts of poffeffing himself
of it, by reafon it was too far from Tezeuco for
Succours to come to him from thence. His In-
tention was only to view it, and to confider atten-
tively what Meafures of Prevention and Caution
were to be taken, when the Time came of chafti-
1
fing
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
297
fing the Cazique for his former Injury; whofe ex-
emplary Puniſhment would be of great Ufe to quell
the Infolence, and facilitate the Subjection of the
Inhabitants.
THE Army advanced in the fame good Order as
if they were marching to a much more difficult En-
terprize, and before they arrived at the Place they
diſcovered a great Body of Troops, without Num-
ber, compofed of thofe Mexicans who had all along
obferved the March of the Spaniards, and of others
who were appointed to affift the Garrifon of Tacuba.
The City not being able to contain all thefe Troops,
they were defirous to attempt the Defence of its
Walls, by a Battle in the open Field. All their
Battalions advanced at once, and charged with fo
much Fiercenefs, and fuch loud Cries, as might
have given Concern to Men lefs acquainted with
the deceitful Appearances of their first Attacks; but
having received the Difcharge of the Fire-Arms,
(which always ftruck more Terror than it did Hurt)
and being further terrified by the Horfe, they were
eaſily diſordered, fo that the reſt of the Army
coming up, routed their Vanguard, and pierced to
the very Centre of the Multitude; notwithſtanding
which, they obftinately diſputed the Victory for a
confiderable Time: But at laft they all turned their
Backs, the greater Part flying to the City, and the
reft taking different Paths, with no other Thought,
but how to avoid the Danger.
THE Spaniards remained Mafters of the Field of
Battle, and employed the remaining Part of the
Day in chufing an advantageous Poft, where they
might lodge themfelves during the Night; but at
Break of Day the Enemy appeared again in the
Field, with a Defign to retrieve the Honour they
had loft the Day before. The General ranged his
Troops, and giving the fame Orders he had done
the
298
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
the preceeding Day, overthrew them with great
Facility, as having the former Defeat and Flight
freſh in their Memory.
CORTES puſhed them with Sword and Pike into
the very City, and following clofe at their Heels
with the Spaniards, and fome Companies of the Al-
lies, maintained the Fight in the inner Part of it,
until Night approaching, he drew off his Troops to
their former Lodgment; permitting the Soldiers to
plunder fome Houfes they had taken Poffeffion of,
and leaving them in Flames, partly to fhew his
Indignation, and partly to keep the Enemy em-
ployed, that he might make his Retreat without
Oppofition.
CORTES remained five Days in his Poft near Ta-
cuba, where the Enemy made him a Vifit every
Day, and were always beat back to the City. His
Intention was to wafte the Garrifon by theſe Sallies,
and, finding by the Abatement of their Ardour,
and the Faintneſs of their Efforts, that their Num-
bers were greatly diminiſhed, he refolved to attack
them in his Turn. Orders were already given, and
every Thing difpofed for the Affault, when he faw
a very confiderable Body of Mexicans advancing up-
on the Cauſey. It was neceffary to defeat this Suc-
cour, before he could carry on his Deſigns againſt
the Town. He refolved therefore to expect them
at a Diſtance from the Caufey, that he might en-
gage them, when they were all drawn up upon the
main Land, and make the greater Slaughter of
them in a Place where they would be fo ftreigthned
in their Retreat; but thefe Mexicans had Orders (and
it was faid, from the Emperor Guatimozin) to fend
fome Troops before the reft, who fuffering them-
felves to be charged, and then retreating, fhould
entice the Spaniards to the Purfuit, and endeavour
to draw them upon the Caufey. This Defign they
compafs'd
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
299.
compaſs'd with notable Dexterity; for fome of them
advancing in Diſorder to the main Land, and form-
ing themſelves after a confuſed Manner, Cortes mif-
took their contrived Stratagem for the Effect of
Fear; and leaving Part of his Army to make head
againſt the Garrifon of Tacuba, marched directly to
the Caufey, fuppofing that he fhould eaſily rid
himſelf of thefe Enemies, and fo be able to return
to the Affault upon the City. The Mexicans, who
were advanced upon the firm Land, turned their
Backs upon the firſt Approach of the Spaniards, and
fled to join the reft of their Troops; the whole
Body of which, as feemingly terrify'd, retired by
little and little, in order to draw the Spaniards upon
the Caufey. The General, led away by thefe fa-
vourable Appearances, purfued them without ma-
king fufficient Reflection; for it was not long fince
the Accident of Iztapalapa, nor could he be igno-
rant, that by thefe feigned Flights the Indians
often drew their Enemies into Ambuſcades; but the
frequent Repetition of Victory (fometimes dange-
rous to Conquerors) did not, at that Time, permit
him to confider all the Circumftances that diftin-
guish between a pretended and a real Fear.
THE Mexicans rallied and made head, when they
perceived Cortes and his Troops within the Caufey;
and whilſt they endeavoured to keep him in Play
by their Reſiſtance, innumerable Canoes fallied out
of Mexico, and inveſted both Sides of the Cauſey,
fo that the Spaniards were at once attacked both in
Front and Flank. Cortes being now fenfible of his
Imprudence (though fomewhat late) found it necef-
fary to retire, with-holding his Men from advan-
cing further upon the Caufey, and making a Front
to the Canoes on each Side. The Enemies were
furniſhed with Pikes very dangerous, fome of them
being armed with the Points of the Swords taken.
from
300
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
from the Spaniards the Night of the Retreat. Many
of our Men were wounded, and they were very
near lofing a Pair of Colours; for in the Heat of
the Fight, Enfign Juan Volante fell into the Lake
by a Blow of a Pike; and the Indians, who were
neareft, feizing upon him, put him into a Canoe
with a Defign to prefent him to their Emperor:
He fuffered himſelf to be carried away, feigning
to fubmit; but when he found himſelf at a fuffi-
cient Diſtance from the reft of the Canoes, he re-
cover'd his Arms, and difengaging himſelf from
thoſe who guarded him, by killing fome of them,
he threw himſelf into the Water, and fwam afhore
with his Colours, with equal Bravery and good For-
tune.
CORTES, with Sword in Hand, expofed himſelf
to the greateſt Dangers, and brought off his Troops,
with little Lofs, to the firm Land; having fuffici-
ently revenged himſelf upon the Indians for their
Deceit in drawing him upon the Caufey; upon
which, and in the Lake, their Lofs was as great as
they could have fuftained in a fair and open Battle:
But judging it Raſhneſs to return to the Enterprize
upon Tacuba, in fpite of the Mexican Reinforce-
ment, (which always kept in View) he thought of
retiring to Tezeuco, which, with the Approbation of
his Captains, he prefently put in Execution. The
Mexicans did not venture to quit the Caufey, or
their Canoes, 'till fuch Time as the Diſtance of our
Army gave them Courage to follow afar off; con-
tenting themfelves with fending forth great Cries,
in which fruitless Fatigue all their Revenge ended.
This Expedition was of great Importance, as well
for the Damage done to the Mexicans in the ſeveral
Engagements, as for the Knowledge the Spaniards
gained of this Part of the Country, of which it
would be neceffary afterwards to make themſelves
Maſters,
Book V.
301
Conquest of MEXICO.
Mafters. And although our Hiftorian endeavours
to obfcure the Glory of it, it was of ſuch great
Confequence to Cortes with refpect to his main De-
fign, that he no fooner arrived at Tezeuco, but the
Caziques of Tucapan, Mafcalzingo, Autlan, and of
other Towns upon the North-fide of the Lake, came
to make their Submiffion, and offer the Affiſtance
of their Troops. A fure Sign that the Spaniards
came back with Reputation, which is an Acquifi-
tion of the greateſt Advantage in War, and which
gains upon the Minds of Men, what Force of Arms
cannot obtain without great Difficulty.
CHA P. XVI.
A fresh Succour of Spaniards arrives at Te-
zeuco. Sandoval marches to the Relief of
Chalco; defeats the Mexicans twice in the
open Field, and takes the Towns of Guafte-
peque and Capiftlan.
HE Profperity of fo many Succeffes was al-
moft an evident Proof, that Heaven was inte-
reſted in the Conqueft of this Empire; nor could
fome favourable Accidents, wherein human Dili-
gence had no Share, be poffibly thought to come
from any other Hand, being fo well adapted to
prefent Neceffity, and fo much beyond all Expecta-
tion. A Veffel of confiderable Burden, fent to
Hernan Cortes, arrived at this Time at Vera-Cruz,
and in her Julian de Alderete, Native of Tordesillas,
with the Character of the King's Treaſurer; Father
Pedro Malgareio de Urrea, a Regular of the Order
of St. Francis, born at Seville; Antonio de Caravaial,
Geronimo
:-.
302 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
Geronimo Ruiz de la Mota, Alonzo Diaz de la Re-
guera, and feveral other Soldiers of Diftinction, with
a very confiderable Succour of Arms, and other
Neceffaries. They immediately march'd to Tlaf-
cala, (the Ammunition being carried on the Shoul-
ders of Zempoalan Indians) and there they had an
Eſcort given them to conduct them fafe to Tezeuco,
they themſelves carrying thither the firft News of
their Arrival.
\
BERNAL DIAZ DEL CASTILLO fays, That this
Veffel came directly from Spain: And Antonio de
Herrera, who makes Mention of it, does not fay
who fent it, defiring, perhaps, to conceal his Igno-
rance by that Omiffion. It ſeems very unlikely,
that it ſhould come to Cortes from Spain, without
bringing Letters from his Father, and his Agents;
and more eſpecially at a Time when they might
have informed him of the good Succeſs of their Ne-
gotiations, which Account, according to thefe Au-
thors, he did not receive till a long Time after. I
am inclined to believe, as more probable, that it
came from Santo Domingo, whofe Governors Cortes
had informed of the Difficulties he was ingaged in,
as has been before obſerved; and the coming of a
Treaſurer for the King, does not in the leaft con-
clude any Thing to the contrary; for it was pro-
perly within the Jurifdiction of thofe Governors to
name fuch Officers as were to collect the Fifth due
to the Emperor; and their Authority extended
over all thofe Conquefts. But from whence foever
this Succour came, it could not have arrived more
opportunely; nor did Cortes mifs to difcern the
true Source of it, attributing to God not only his
good Fortune in the Augmentation of his Forces,
but the very Vigour of Mind, which he perceived
in himſelf, and that marvellous Conftancy, which
though agreeable enough to his natural Courage,
yet
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
303
yet feem'd to him at this Time the immediate Ef-
fect of a Heavenly Influence.
Ar this Time there arrived Meffengers, dif-
patch'd in great Hafte to Cortes from the Caziques
of Chalco and Thamanalco, to demand Succour
againſt a powerful Army, which the Enemy were
providing in Mexico for fubjecting the Towns of
their Diſtricts, which adhered to the Interefts of the
Spaniards. Guatimozin had a great Inclination to
Arms, and, as appeared by other Parts of his
Conduct, applied himſelf intirely to the Arts of
War. He was continually contriving Means to get
the Victory over his Enemies, and had confidered
that there was no better Way to compaſs his De-
fign, than by feizing on that Frontier, whereby he
might cut off the Communication with Tlafcala,
and prevent any Succours coming from Vera-Cruz;
a Point of fo much Confequence, that Cortes found
himſelf abfolutely obliged to protect thefe Allies, to
whoſe Fidelity he owed the Prefervation of this ne-
ceffary Pafs free from the Mexicans. He imme-
diately difpatched Gonzalo de Sandoval to their Re-
lief, with three hundred Spaniards, twenty Horfe,
and fome Companies of Tlafcala and Tezeuco,
amounting to fuch a Number as he thought fuffi-
cient, the Troops of thofe Provinces being already
in Arms.
SANDOVAL made no Delay, but march'd with
fo much Diligence, that his Succour arrived very
opportunely The Caziques had affembled all their
Troops, which, join'd to thofe of Sandoval, made
a very confiderable Body. The Enemy was not
very far off, their Army having lodged the Night
before at Guaſtepeque, and it was reſolved to attack
them before they entered upon the Territories of
Chalco. In the mean Time, the Mexicans, depend-
ing upon the Number of their Forces, and having
learnt
304
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
learnt that the Spaniards were come to the Support
of the Chalquefes, poffefs'd themfelves of fome Ba-
rancas or hollow Ways, in order to wait the Com-
ing of our Troops in a Place where they might be
fecure againſt the Horfe. The Spaniards were fen-
fible of the Difficulty, when they came to the
Charge; and Sandoval ftood in Need of all his Re-
folution, and all the Valour of his Troops, to dif-
lodge the Enemy from that Poft, which they did
with Sword in Hand, but not without fome
Lofs; for on this Occafion died bravely fighting a
Spanish Soldier, called Juan Dominguez, much
eſteemed in the Army for his fingular Skill in the
managing of Horfes.
THE Mexicans loft a great Number in this Dif-
pute; however, they thought themſelves ſtrong
enough to rally and draw up upon the Plain: But
Sandoval, having foon overcome the Difficulty of
the Paffage, attacked them ſo brifkly, that he broke
them before they could form. The Vanguard of
the Enemy continued the Fight for fome Time
with defperate Fury; and if their Refiftance had
laſted a little longer, this Combat might have been
called a Battle; but this diforderly Multitude foon
gave Way, and difperfed, and the Spaniards fol-
lowed the Purfuit with fo much Vigour, that the
Mexicans loft the greateſt Part of their Troops.
Sandoval remained Maſter of the Field, and choſe a
Place for his Army to halt in, and take a little
Reft, refolving to advance that Night to Guaste-
peque, whither the greateſt Part of the Fugitives
were retired.
BUT ſcarce had the Troops began to enjoy the
Repoſe they ſo much wanted for the Recovery of
their Strength, when the Scouts, who had been fent
out to view the Avenues, returned, and gave the
Alarm fo warmly, that it was neceffary to form
-
the
Book V.
Conquest of Mexico.
305
the Army with all Expedition. A Body of four-
teen or fifteen Thouſand Mexicans were advancing
in good Order, and were fo near, that the Spa-
niards could hear the Sound of their Drums and
Horns. Theſe Troops were fuppofed to be fent
as a Reinforcement to thofe which had marched
from Mexico before, becauſe it was impoffible for
the latter, who had been intirely broken, to have
formed themſelves in fuch good Order in fo fhort
a Time, nor was the bold Air with which they ad-
vanced, confiftent with the Terror of fuch a De-
feat. The Spaniards advanced to receive thefe
New-comers; and attacked them fo feafonably, that
putting their Front in Diſorder, they made Way
for the Horfe to charge without any Rifk; who, ac-
cording to Cuftom, made fuch a Slaughter of the
Enemy, that they were foon obliged to turn their
Backs, flying in Confufion to the Town of Guafte-
peque, where they believed themfelves in Security;
but the Spaniards followed them fo cloſe, (killing
all they overtook) that they entered the Place
at the fame Time with the Fugitives, and main-
tained the Entrance, till the rest of the Troops
coming up, they divided themſelves into the fe-
veral Streets, and with Sword in Hand drove the
Enemy out of the Town. The Mexicans loft great
Numbers by their obftinate Refiftance, and the
reft who fled, were fo terrified, that in a little
Time there was not one to be feen thereabouts.
THIS TOWN was fo large, that Sandoval was re-
folved to quarter there that Night, and the Spa-
niards, with the greateſt Part of their Allies, lay
under Cover. The Victory was the more joyful,
becauſe the Soldiers were allowed to plunder, pro-
vided they took nothing that was burthenfome, or
would embarraſs them in the Ufe of their Arms.
The Cazique of the Town, and fome of the prin-
VOL. II.
X
cipat
306
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
cipal Inhabitants, came a little after, and made
their Submiffion, excufing what was paft by the
Force put upon them by the Mexicans, and fhew-
ing their Sincerity by coming unarmed, and fur-
rendering themſelves to the Difcretion of the Con-
querors. The Spaniards received them courte-
oufly, and after Sandoval had fent out to view the
Country, which was found quiet, he refolved, with
the Approbation of his Captains, to make his Re-
treat: But the People of Chalco, who had better
Spies abroad, received Advice, that the Mexicans,
who had eſcaped from the paft Engagements, were
all joined in Capiftlan, and protefted to him, That
to retreat now, was to leave them in the fame Dan-
ger from which he came to deliver them. Upon
this News, he thought it neceffary to go and dif-
perfe this Body of Fugitives, before they ſhould be
reinforced with freſh Troops.
CAPISTLAN was but two Leagues diftant from
Guaftepeque on the Side of Mexico. The Town was
ftrong by Natuae, being feated upon the Top of a
great Rock, difficult of Accefs; with a River on
the other Side, which running with Rapidity from
the neighbouring Mountains, wafhed the Precipices
of the Rock. When the Troops came up, they
found the Mexicans prepared for their Defence, and
that they had covered all the Top of this Eminence
with Soldiers; who celebrated their Security with
loud Cries, and difcharging fome Arrows, not fo
much to wound, as to irritate the Spaniards: San-
doval refolved to drive the Enemy from this Poft,
that he might leave the neighbouring Provinces free
from any Fear of a new Invafion; and finding there
were only three Ways by which he could make the
Attack, which were equally difficult, he ordered
the Troops of Chalco and Tlafcala to advance firft,
as People more accuſtomed to thofe rugged Paffes.
Bus
Book V.
307
Conquest of MEXICO.
}
1
But they did not obey with the fame Readinefs they
ufed to do, fhewing by the Slownefs of their Mo-
tion, that they thought the Difficulty of this Under-
taking fuperior to their Force; fo that Sandoval,
impatient of Delay, threw himſelf into the Danger
at the Head of the Spaniards, which fo animated the
Indians, that finding by his Example the Unrea-
fonableneſs of their Fear, they advanced by the
moſt difficult Parts of the Rock, mounting it with
more Eaſe than the Spaniards, and fighting with
equal Bravery. The Way was ſo ſteep in fome Places,
that they could not make Uſe of their Hands, with-
out Fear of their Feet flipping, and the Stones
which the Enemy rolled down from the Top,
wounded more than their Darts and Arrows: Ne-
vertheless, the Fire-Arms and Crofs-Bows cleared
the Way for the Pikes and Swords, and the Affail-
ants, by their Valour and Conftancy, forcing their
Way againſt all Oppofition, gained the Top of the
Hill at the fame Time that the Mexicans were re-
tiring into the Town, fo difpirited, that they ſcarce
made a Difpofition to defend it, or defended it fo
weakly, that they were driven to the Edge of the
Precipice, where all that did not fling themſelves
down, were put to the Sword; and the Slaughter
was fo great upon this Occafion, that for a while
(according to the moft exact Relations) there ran
Streams of Mexican Blood into the River, in fuch
Abundance, that the Spaniards, who went down to
quench their Thirft, were obliged to refrain from
drinking, or to do it with Horror.
SANDOVAL had his Armour broke in two Places
by Stones, and fome Spaniards were very much
wounded; among whom Andres de Tapia, and Her-
nando de Ofma, were the moft confiderable, or beft
deſerved to be remembred. The Confederates fuf
fered moſt becauſe that Part of the Rock by which
X 2
they
308
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
they attacked was very difficult to mount, and they
ran upon the Danger more precipitately.
SANDOVAL having gained three or four Victo-
ries in fo fhort a Time, and the Mexicans being
defeated and chafed out of thofe Provinces that
needed the Protection of his Arms, he began his
March the next Day for Tezeuco by the fame Road
he came, and arrived there without any Oppofition.
As foon as the News of his Retreat was brought
to Mexico, the Emperor fent a new Army againſt
the Province of Chalco, which plainly fhew'd the
great Defire he had to cut off the Spaniards Com-
munication with Tlafcala. The Chalquefes had News
of this Invafion, at a Time when they could have
no Dependence but upon their own Arms; and af
fembling in Haſte the Troops they had ready, with
thoſe they could get from their Allies, they took
the Field with more Refolution than formerly, and
obſerving a better Order in the Diſpoſition of their
Men. The two Armies advanced towards each
other, and fighting with equal Bravery, the Battle
was long and bloody; but in the End the Chalquefes
gained the Victory, and tho' they loft great Num-
bers in the Action, they flew more of the Mexicans,
and remained Maſters of the Field. The News of
this Victory was received with great Applauſe at
Tezeuco; and Cortes was particularly pleafed, to
find that his Allies were in a Condition to fupport
themſelves, and that their own Forces were fuffi-
cient to defend them. This happy Succefs was
principally owing to their Valour, but the Order
and good Difcipline which they obferved in the
Fight, did much contribute to the Victory, and it
was of great Importance to thofe People to have
been Conquerors in other Battles, wherein they loſt
the Fear they had conceived of the commanding
Nation,
Book V.
309.
Conquest of MEXICO.
Nation, and by the Help of the Spaniards had dif
covered the Secret, that Mexicans could be beaten
like other Men.
CHAP.
XVII.
Cortes marches out of Tezeuco, to view the Lake
on the Side of Suchimilco: He has two dan-
gerous Engagements with the Enemy, who had
fortified themfelves upon the Mountains of
Guaftepeque.
CORT
ORTES could have wifh'd, that Sandoval had
not returned without penetrating as far as
Suchimilco upon the Lake, which was but a few
Leagues diftant from Guaftepeque, it being of great
Importance to take a View of that City, where there
was a very broad Caufey, which joined the princi-
pal ones that led to Mexico. And as the finifhing
of the Brigantines would ſtill take up fome Time,
he refolved to employ it in this Expedition. He
alfo confidered the Advantage of covering the Paf-
fage to Tlafcala, and animating the People of
Chalco, who feem'd apprehenfive of new Invafions.
Cortes charged himſelf with the Execution of this
Deſign, taking with him Chriftoval de Olid, Pedro
de Alvarado, Andres de Tapia, and Julian de Alde-
rete, with three hundred Spaniards, and fuch Troops
of Tezeuco and Tlafcala as he judged neceffary, fup-
pofing he ſhould find the Cazique of Chalco, with
his Allies in Arms.
In his Abfence, he left the Military Command
with Sandoval, and the Civil with the Cazique Don
Hernando, who was always fubmiffive and affectio
X 3
nate
319 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
nate; and though his Age and Genius inclined him
to more active Employments, he had fufficient Un-
derſtanding to know, that it was more meritorious
to obey.
HERNAN CORTES fet out from Tezeuco, on the
5th of April 1521, and hearing no News of the
Mexicans, marched with fo much Diligence, that
he arrived the next Night at Chalco, where he found
the Confederate Caziques affembled in the City,
and under an Alarm, becauſe they did not expect
any Succour from the Spaniards, and had diſcover'd
on the Side of Suchimilco a new Army of Mexicans,
much ſtronger than any of the former, who were
coming with a Defign to ravage and poffefs them-
felves of their Country. The Demonftrations of
their Joy were equal to the Trouble they were in
before: They threw themfelves at the Feet of the
Spaniards, and lifted up their Eyes to the Heavens
to the favourable Difpofition of which (according
to their Ideas) they attributed this fudden Change
of their Fortune. Cortes intended to make Ufe of
their Arms, and therefore leaving them in the Opi-
nion, that he was come only to fuccour them, he
did what he could to recover them out of the
Fright they had conceived, and by applauding
their Victory, to give them a high Conceit of their
own Bravery.
THESE Caziques had their advanced Centries
and fome Spies in the Enemies Country, who paf-
fing the Word from one to another, gave Notice
continually of the Enemies Motions; and by this
Means they underſtood, that the Mexicans, being
informed of the Arrival of the Spaniards at Chalco,
had made a Halt upon the Mountains, which were
in the Way, divided their Troops, to garrifon fome
Fortreffes on the Tops of thofe Eminences that
were
Book V.
311
Conquest of MEXICO.
were moſt difficult of Accefs. This Conduct of the
Mexicans might have been defigned, either to con-
ceal the Number of their Troops, till fuch time as
Cortes fhould retire, that they might afterwards fall
upon his Allies; or, what feems more probable,
to wait the Coming of their Enemies, in a Place
where they had the Advantage of the Ground:
But in both thefe Cafes it feemed abfolutely ne-
ceffary to attack them in their Fortifications, That
no Time might be loft in marching to Suchi-
milco.
WITH this Refolution the Army marched the
fame Night to a Town, deferted by its Inhabi-
tants, at the Foot of the Mountain, where it was
joined by the Troops of Chalco, and of the adjacent
Country: A numerous Body of good Soldiers,
which animated the reft of the Nations, who were
advancing to the Defiles in fome Concern. At the
firft Appearance of the Day, they began to enter
the Mountains, by a narrow and difficult Path, be-
tween two Ridges of Rocks. Some Mexicans, whọ
came to provoke the Spaniards, fhewed themfelves
upon the Tops of the Rocks on both Sides. The
Army marched flowly on, filing off, as the Nature
of the Ground required, till they came to a Plain,
at an Opening of the Hills, which at fome Diſtance
clofed again. Here Cortes formed his Men as well
as he could, having difcovered on the higheſt Emi-
nence, a confiderable Fortreſs, where the Enemy
had lodged themſelves in fuch Numbers, as might
have ftruck a Dread, though in a lefs advanta-
geous Poſt.
Their Defign was to provoke the
Spaniards, and draw them on to the Attack, in the
Midſt of thoſe Precipices, where the Difficulty of
the Way was no lefs dangerous than the Arms of the
Enemy.
X 4
CORTES
312
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
CORTES was ftung to the Quick by the infulting
Railleries of the Enemy, who laughed at his De-
lay, nor could he bear with Patience their Re-
proaching the Spaniards with Cowardice; fo that,
giving Way to Anger (feldom a good Counſellor)
he marched his Troops to the Foot of the Moun-
tain, where, without ftaying to chooſe the leaſt
difficult Path, he ordered two Companies of Muf-
queteers and Crofs-Bows to advance to the Attack,
under the Command of Captain Pedro de Barba,
accompanied by fome Soldiers of particular Diftinc-
tion, who voluntarily offered themſelves, among
which was our Bernal Diaz del Caftillo, who, not
fatisfied with the Reputation of Valour he had al-
ready eſtabliſhed, put in for a Share in every diffi-
cult Undertaking.
THE Mexicans retired as the Spaniards mounted
the Hill, feigning to be in fome Diſorder, that they
might entice them on to the moſt dangerous Part
of the Precipice; which they had no fooner ef-
fected, but they returned, with moſt horrible Cries,
letting fall from the Top fuch a terrible Shower of
great Stones, and intire Rocks, as barred up the
Way, after having borne down every Thing it met
with. This firft Charge did great Damage, and it
would have been much greater, if Enfign Chriftoval
del Coral, and Bernal Diaz del Caftillo, who ad-
vanced before the reft, had not retired to the Hol-
low of a Rock, and adviſed the reft to halt, and
leave the Path, it being impoffible to go on, with-
out falling into greater Danger. The General was
fenfible that there was no continuing the Attack that
Way; and fearing they would all have perifhed,
fent them Orders immediately to retire, which they
did with the fame Danger. This Action coft the
Lives of four Spaniards; Captain Pedro de Barba
was
Book V.
313
Conquest of MEXICO.
was hurt, and many others wounded. Cortes was
inwardly fretted at this Difgrace, as being in Effect
owing to his own Imprudence; but in Publick
he called it the Chance of War, hiding the Weak-
nefs of his Excufes with Menaces againſt the
Enemy.
HE ftrait refolved to advance with fome of his
Captains, in fearch of a lefs dangerous Path, where-
by to gain the Top of the Mountain: And to this
Refolution he was equally carried, by a Defire of
revenging his Lofs, and by the Inconveniency of
continuing his March with the Enemy at his Back.
Nevertheleſs, he could not put this Defign in Exe-
cution; for at the fame time he difcoverd an Am-
bufcade, which gave him an Opportunity of coming
fooner to an Engagement. A Body of the Enemy's
Troops, which had been poſted on the other Side
of the Mountain, coming down and poffeffing them-
felves of a Wood near the Road, watched an Op-
portunity to charge the Rear of the Spaniards, when
they ſhould ſee them engaged in the Defilées; and
had alfo given Notice to thofe above, to come
down and attack the Van-guard at the fame time:
And this Stratagem of the Barbarians fhows, what
Mafters Hatred and Malice are, in the Arts of
War.
HERNAN CORTES caufed his Troops to make the
fame Movement, as if he defigned to continue his
March, laying open his Flanks to the Mexicans in
Ambuſcade; and when he thought they were fe-
cure, turned fhort upon them: But they fled fo
nimbly, and were fo favoured by the Thickneſs of
the Woods, that he did them little Damage; and
perceiving at the fame time, that the Fugitives took
the Road of Guaftepeque, he detached his Cavalry
for the Purfuit, and made the Infantry advance
fome Paces. This Motion ferved to diſcover, that
the
314 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
the Mexicans above had abandoned their Fort, and
were following the March of the Spaniards by the
Tops of the Mountains; fo that the Inconvenience
of leaving the Enemy behind now ceafing, the
Army purſued their Way without any other Op-
pofition, than the Cries of the Enemy, till about
League and a half forward, they came to another
Fortreſs like the former, which the Mexicans had
garriſoned; and though their Cries and Menaces
fufficiently provoked the General, it was too near
Night, and he had a fatal Experience too freſh in
his Memory, to engage with them anew, without
further Precaution.
His Army encamped near a little forfaken Vil-
lage on the Top of an Eminence, from whence
they could diſcover the neighbouring Mountains.
The Soldiers fuffered very much in this Place for
want of Water; and Thirft was an Enemy, alone
fufficient to diſturb their Hours of Reft. In the
Morning they found Relief from fome Springs,
which were not far from the Camp; and Cortes
commanding the Army to follow him, advanced
to view the Fortrefs, of which the Enemies had
poffeffed themſelves, and found it more inacceffible
than the former: For the Road in going up made
feveral Turns, and was throughout expofed to the
Darts of the Enemy. But obferving another Emi-
nence within Muſket-ſhot, which the Enemy had
neglected, he commanded Verdugo, Barba, and
Alderete, to mount with the Muſketeers, and feize
it, in order to embarass the Mexicans in their De-
fence of the other Hill. This was prefently put in
Execution, by taking a Road covered from the
Enemy, who frighted at the Number of Men who
were killed by the firft Diſcharge of the Fire-Arms,
thought only of retiring to a confiderable Town
joining to their Fortrefs. The Spaniards below.
gueffed
Book V.
315
Conquest of MEXICO.
gueffed the Truth of what had happened by the
ceafing of the Enemies Cries; and as they were
preparing for the Attack, had Advice from the
neighbouring Height, that the Mexicans had in-
tirely abandoned their Fort, and were flying to
the diftant Parts of the Country: fo that Cortes
thought it unneceffary to take a View of that
Poft, which he did not defign to keep, and was
of no Importance after it was quitted by the
Enemy.
But before the Army renewed their March, they
diſcovered feveral Women on the Top of the Hill,
calling out for Peace, hanging out white Cloths,
which they waved up and down, and accompanying
thefe with other Signs of Submiffion, that obliged
Cortes to fend for them. The Cazique immedi-
ately came down, and offered his Obedience, fub-
mitting not only the Fort where he refided, but
the other alfo which they had left behind, and
which belonged to his Jurifdiction. He made an
Apology with the Air of a Man that ſpoke Truth,
and laid all the Blame of the Refiſtance the Army
had met with upon thofe Mountains, on the Mexi-
cans, who were too powerful for him. Hernan
Cortes admitted his Excufes, either that he believed
them true, or that he thought it not a proper Time
to examine them ftrictly. The Cazique feemed
very much concerned, that he ſhould paſs through
his Territories without receiving the Submiffion of
his Vaffals; and Cortes, to fatisfy him, was obliged
to fend two Companies of Spaniards to take Poffef
fion in the Name of the Emperor, according to the
Cuſtom obferved at that Time.
AFTER this Ceremony was over, which did not
detain them long, the Army marched on to Guafte-
peque, a populous Town, which Gonzalo de Sandoval
had left in Peace, and which they found as full of
Inha
316
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
Inhabitants, and as well stocked with Provifions,
as if it had been a Time of Peace, or they had
fuffered nothing by Oppreffion from the Mexi-
cans.
THE Cazique with the principal Inhabitants came
to wait upon Cortes, to affure him of his Obedience,
and invite him to accept of a Lodging he had pre-
pared for the Spaniards in his own Palace, and other
Lodgings in the City for the Commanders of the
Confederate Troops; promifing to fupply the reft
with all neceffary Provifions, which he accord-
ingly performed with great Prudence and Libe-
rality.
His Palace was fo fumptuous a Building, that
it might vye with thofe of Motezuma, and fo large,
that all the Spaniards were lodged in it with Eafe.
In the Morning he carried them into a Garden he
kept for his Diverfion, (nothing inferior to that of
Iztapalapa) whofe Spacioufnefs and Fertility the
Spaniards greatly admired, becauſe it far exceeded
their Expectation, and was afterwards ſpoke of as
one of the Wonders of that new World: It was above
half a League long, and near as much in Breadth;
the Ground was level and uniform, and regularly
divided into Plats, with all the Fruit-Trees and
Plants, which that Country produced, with feveral
great Ponds which received the Water of the neigh-
bouring Mountains, and feveral Squares after the
Manner of Parterres full of Flowers, and medi-
cinal Herbs, cultivated with great Care, and placed
in exact Order; the Work of a powerful Lord,
who had a Taſte of Agriculture, and had ftudied
to heighten the Beauties of Nature with the Orna-
ments of Art.
CORTES endeavoured to engage this Cazique in
his Intereſt by fome Prefents; but receiving Ad-
vice, as he was entering into the Garden, that the
Enemy
Book V.
317
Conquest of MEXICO.
Enemy were expecting him at Quatlavaca, (a Town
lying in the Way he was to paſs) he took but little
Pleaſure in the Beauties of the Place, and gave Or-
ders for the Army immediately to march, not with-
out fome Concern that he had ftaid longer than
he ought. For fuch is the Nature of Care, with
great Difficulty to admit of Interruption; and if
for a while diverted, to return again with greater
Violence.
CHA P. XVIII.
The Army paffes on to Quatlavaca, where the
Mexicans receive a new Defeat; from
thence to Suchimilco, where Cortes fur-
mounts a great Difficulty, and is in Danger
of being loft.
UATLAVACA was a populous Town,
ftrong by Nature, fituate between Barrancas,
or Breakings of the Earth above eight Fathoms
deep, which ferved as a Ditch to the Place, and
Paffages for the Water that defcended from the
Mountains. The Army arrived at this Place after
having fubdued all the Towns which lay in their
Way without any Difficulty. The Mexicans had
cut down the Bridges, and covered the Banks with
fuch a Number of Soldiers, that the Paffage feemed
impoffible. But Cortes drew up his Army at a
convenient Diſtance, and while the Spaniards and
Confederates endeavoured to divert the Enemy
with their Fire-Arms and Arrows, he went to view
the Barranca; and finding it at fome Diſtance lower
much narrower, he immediately ordered two or
three
*
318
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
1
three Bridges to be made of Trees cut at the Root,
which reached from one Side to the other, and
which laid together as well as was poffible, made
a Way, though fomewhat dangerous, for the In-
fantry to paſs. The Spaniards of the Van-guard,
leaving the Tlafcalans to keep the Enemy in Play,
immediately paffed over, and formed a Battalion
on the other Side of the Ditch, which was conti-
nually augmented by the Allies. But the Mexicans,
who were quickly fenfible of their Negligence, poured
down upon thoſe that had paffed with fo much Re-
folution, that they had much to do to keep their
Ground; and the Succeſs had been very doubtful,
if Cortes had not opportunely arrived, followed by
Olid, Alvarado, and Tapia, who, whilft the Foot
were getting over, had found out a Paffage for the
Horfe, which though a very difficult and dangerous
one, was of great Ufe in the extreme Danger to
which the Spaniards were reduced.
THE Horſe wheeled about in order to charge the
Mexicans in the Rear, which they did, affifted by
fome Foot brought to their Succour by Bernal
Diaz del Caftillo, who, pufhed on by his Courage,
had paffed the Ditch by the Means of two or three
Trees which were fallen down by their own Weight,
and lay acroſs the Barranca. Several Spaniards quit-
ted the Skirmiſh to follow the Example of Diaz,
as did a confiderable Number of Indians, who
all mixed with the Horſe, when they made their
Charge.
BUT the Mexicans, who now faw the Danger
that threatened them in the midſt of their Forti-
fications, gave themſelves for loft, and difperfing,
fought only to eſcape in the beſt Manner they could
to the Mountains. They loft great Numbers, both
in the Defence of the Ditch, and in their Flight;
nevertheless, the greateſt Part faved themfelves
among
Book V.
319
Conquest of MEXICO.
among the Rocks and Precipices, where it was not
poffible to purſue them. The Town was found in-
tirely abandoned, but with good Store of Provi-
fions, and fome Spoils, which were given to the
Soldiers. A little after, the Cazique, and fome of
the chief Inhabitants, who were willing to fubmit,
called to the Spaniards from the further Side of the
Ditch, defiring Leave to return to the Town, and
prepare Quarters for the Troops; which was imme-
diately granted, and they were of Ufe afterwards,
rather by the Notice they gave of the Enemy's Mo-
tions, and by their Knowledge of the Country, than
for any Want the Spaniards had of their Offers, or
any Dependence they had on their Excuſes, the
Neighbourhood of Mexico keeping them in a necef
fary Subjection.
་
EARLY the next Morning the Army took the
Road of Suchimilco, a Place which deferved the
Name of a City, feated on the Edge of a Freſh-
Water Lake, which had a Communication with
the great Lake; the Buildings were partly on the
Land, and partly in the Water, where a great
Number of Canoes ferved them to paſs from Place
to Place: It was of great Importance to take a View
of this Poft, which was within four Leagues of
Mexico: but the March was very troublefome; for
after they had paſſed a Defilée three Leagues long,
they came into a barren dry Country, where the
Soldiers fuffered very much for want of Water;
the Fatigue of the March, and the Heat of the
Sun, increafing their Thirft to fuch a Degree, that
at their Entrance into a Foreft of Pines, they were
infenfible of any Relief from its Shade.
NEAR the Road they found fome Houfes within
the Jurifdiction of Suchimilco, built for Farm-Houſes,
or for Pleaſure, by the Inhabitants of that Place.
Here the Army lodged, and enjoyed that Night
the
320
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
the Reft and Refreſhment they fo much wanted.
The Enemy had purpofely quitted them, to wait
the Spaniards in a ftronger Poft. Cortes drew up
his Army in Order of Battle at Break of Day, and
began his March, expecting to meet with a good
deal of Difficulty in his prefent Enterprize; it not
being likely, that the Mexicans would leave Suchi-
milco, a Poft of fo great Importance, and fo near
to Mexico, without a ftrong Garrifon, efpecially
fince all thoſe who had eſcaped from the paſt En-
gagements, were retired to that Place.
His Conjectures proved right; for the Enemy
(the Relation of whofe Numbers may be true,
but fhall be omitted as improbable) had drawn up
their Battalions in a Plain at fome Diftance from the
City, having a great and rapid River in their Front,
which diſcharged itſelf into the Lake. They had
double-lined the Banks of this River, and difpofed
their main Body for the Defence of a wooden
Bridge, which they would not cut down, having
barricaded it with Planks and Fafcines, and fup-
pofing, that though this Fortification fhould be
forced, they fhould have a fufficient Advantage in
the Narrownefs of the Pafs, and be able to de-
ſtroy their Enemies as faft as they came over the
Bridge.
HERNAN CORTES perceived the Difficulty, but,
without appearing concerned, extended the Troops
of the Allies along the Bank of the River; and,
whilft both Sides made fome Difcharges at each
other with little Effect, he commanded the Spa-
niards to advance, and gain the Bridge. The Spa-
niards met with fuch an obftinate Refiftance, that
they were twice repulfed; but returning a third
Time to the Attack with greater Vigour, and ma·
king Ufe of the Enemy's Trenches against them,
they foon became Maſters of the País, which fo
dif-
Book V. Conquest of Mexico.
321
difcouraged the Mexicans, that they began every-
where to fly, their Commanders ordering the Signal
for a Retreat, either to cover their Diſorder, or with
a Deſign to rally.
THE Spaniards made Hafte to feize upon the
Ground the Mexicans had quitted, and at the fame
Time feveral Companies of Tlafcala and Tezeuco
threw themſelves into the River, and fwam to the
other Side, where they joined the Army. The
Enemy were drawn up in Order of Battle under the
Walls of the Town, but upon the firft Advance of
the Spaniards they began to retire, provoking them
ſtill by their Cries, and fome Diſcharges of Arrows,
which did no Execution, to fignify that they
retreated out of Choice. However, Cortes fell
upon them with fo much Vigour, that at the very
firſt Charge it was feen how near their affected Va-
lour was to fear. They continued retiring into the
City, in the Entrance of which they loft great Num-
bers; and fheltering themſelves within the Bar-
ricades, with which they had blocked up the
Streets, began again to uſe their Arms, and defy
their Enemies.
HERNAN CORTES left a Part of his Troops
without the Town to fecure his Retreat, and to op-
pofe any Attacks that might be made from Abroad,
and entered with the reft to purſue the Chace. For
which Purpoſe, ordering fome Companies to force
the Barricades in the Streets, on the Right and Left,
he advanced to the principal one, where the Enemy
had their greateſt Force. With fome Difficulty he
broke through their Blockade, and, carried away
by the Tranſports of his Courage, forgot the Care
he ought to have had of his Perfon; for throwing
himſelf with more Bravery than Prudence into the
midſt of a Multitude of Enemies, he found himſelf
furrounded by them, when he would have returned
VOL. II.
Y
to
322
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
to the Affiftarice of his Men. He fupported him-
felf for fome time with the utmoſt Courage, until
his Horſe, being tired, fell under him, and pur
him in extreme Danger of his Life. Thofe who
were neareſt, immediately advanced; and, before
he was in a Condition to make Uſe of his Arms, he
was in a Manner taken; the only Thing that de-
fended him, being the great Defire the Mexicans
had to take him alive, for a Prefent to their Em-
peror. At this Inftant, Chriftoval de Olea, Native
of Medina del Campo, a Soldier of diſtinguiſhed Va-
lour, who was not far off, faw the Diſtreſs of his
General, and calling to fome Tlafcalans who were
fighting near him, forced his Way to the Place
with fo much Refolution, and was fo well feconded
by thofe that followed him, that, after having killed
with his own Hand thoſe who preffed moft upon
his General, he had the good Fortune to reſtore
him to his Liberty. Cortes immediately made ufe
of it to puſh the Enemy, who eſcaping to that Part
of the City, which ftood in the Water, left the
Spaniards Mafters of all the Streets upon the firm
Land.
CORTES came off with two flight Wounds,
and Olea with three dangerous Cuts of a Sword,
whofe Scars were afterwards honourable Marks
of his Exploit. Herrera faith, That Cortes owed
his Liberty to a Tlafcalan, unknown both before
and after, and relates the Action as a kind of
a Miracle; but Bernal Diaz, who was one of the
firft that came to the Relief of the General, at-
tributes the whole Honour to Olea; and the De-
fcendants of this valiant Man (leaving to God the
Glory which is his Due) may very well be excuſed,
if they rather believe an Author who relates what.
he faw, than one who goes upon Conjectures.
WHILST
Book V
Conquest of MEXICO.
323
WHILST this Engagement lafted in the Town,
the Troops that were without, under the Command
of Olid, Alvarado, and Tapia, were not idle: The
Nobles of Mexico made an extraordinary Effort to
reinforce the Garriſon of Suchimilco, whofe Confer-
vation the Emperor Guatimozin had very much at
Heart. They embarked with ten Thouſand chofen
Men, and landed at fome Diſtance from the Town,
knowing that the Spaniards were engaged in the
Streets, and defigned to fall upon their Rear: But
they were diſcovered, and charged with fo much
Refolution, that they were glad to reimbark, leav-
ing a good Number of their Men upon the Field:
But it appeared, by the Refiftance they made, that
they were led by valiant Commanders; and the
Diſpute was fo warm, that the three Spanish Cap-
tains were wounded, befides a confiderable Number
of Spanish and Tlafcalan Soldiers.
THIS happy Succefs made Hernan Cortes Mafter
of the Field, and of. all the Streets and Buildings
upon the firm Land; and having placed fufficient
Guards on the Water-fide, he lodged his Troops in
great Porticoes, near the principal Temple; which
having a fort of a Wall capable of refifting the
Arms of the Mexicans, feemed commodious for the
Repoſe of the Soldiers, and the Cure of their
Wounds. At the fame time he ordered fome
Companies to mount, and view the Top of the
Temple, which being found forfaken, he poſted
an Officer, and twenty or thirty Spaniards in the
upper Court, with Orders to be alert, and to re-
lieve the Centries often, that they might obferve
every Thing that paffed both by Land and by Water:
A very neceffary Precaution, and of which the Ufe-
fulneſs was foon experienced! for at the Cloſe of
the Evening, they gave Notice, that they had dif
covered, on the Side of Mexico, above two Thou
امج
X 3
fand
324 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
"
1.
fand armed Canoes, that advanced with all the
Speed their Oars would permit; by which timely
Advice, the Spaniards were enabled to prevent the
Dangers of the Night, by doubling their Guards at
the Landing-Places; and in the Morning they ſaw
the Enemy difembark at a great Diſtance from the
City, in Appearance about fourteen or fifteen thou
fand Men.
HERNAN CORTES went out to receive them,
chufing an advantageous Piece of Ground for his
Horfe, and leaving a good Part of his Troops for
the Defence of his Quarters. The two Armies.
quickly drew near, and the Mexicans began the
Charge; but upon receiving the firft Fire, they
gave Ground; fo that the reft of our Troops
coming up Sword in Hand, and charging them
brifkly, they foon turned their Backs, and fled;
and the whole Action was rather a Chafe than a
Victory.
CORTES Continued four Days in Suchimilco, for
the Recovery of his Wounded, the Troops never
quitting their Arms, becaufe the Neighbourhood of
Mexico made it eafy for the Enemy to fend Succours
from thence; and even when they were free from
thoſe Alarms, the Apprehenfion of them was fuffi-
cient to fatigue the Soldiers.
THE Day appointed for the Retreat came, which
was executed, as had been refolved; the Enemy
ftill continuing their Perfecution, and fometimes
advancing to feize the difficult Paffes, in order to
diſturb the March: But this Oppofition was eafily
overcome, and with confiderable Advantage; and
Hernan Cortes returned to Tezeuco, with the Satif-
faction of having obtained the two Ends he pro-
pofed by this Sally, the Knowledge of Suchimilco,
(a Place of Importance to his Defigns) and breaking
the Force of the Enemy, in order to their weaker
Defence
»
1
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
325
Defence of Mexico. However he was inwardly
diffatisfied and melancholy for having loft nine or
ten Spaniards in this Expedition; for, befides thofe
that were killed at the firft Affault of the Moun-
tains, the Mexicans took Three or Four alive at
Suchimilco, as they were pillaging one of the Houſes
in the Water; and two of his Servants, who fell
into an Ambuſcade, by imprudently feparating from
the Army. What mightily increafed his Concern,
was the Circumftance of their being taken alive,
in order to be facrificed upon the Altars of the
Indian Idols; and their Misfortune recalled to his
Mind his own paft Danger (when in the Enemy's
Power) of dying after the fame abominable Man-
ner. But he always made Reflections too late on
the Importance of his Life; for when a Time of
Action came, he confulted only the Motions of his
Valour, and poftponed the Hearing of what Pry-
dence might remonftrate, to another Time,
CHAP. XIX.
A Confpiracy of fome Spaniards against the
Life of Cortes, is punished by the Death
of a Spanish Soldier; and a Sedition of
Jome Tlafcalans, by the Death of Xico-
tencal.
THE
HE Brigantines were now in a Condition to
be launched, and the Canal had Depth and
Capacity fufficient to receive them: All other ne-
ceffary Preparations went on with Vigour; great
Quantities of Arms were made for the Indians, an
exact Account taken of all the Stores in the Maga-
* 3
zines,
326
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
zines, and all the Artillery was proved. The Day
was appointed for the Confederate Caziques to ap-
pear at the Randezvouz with their Troops; and
particular Care was taken to bring Provifions con-
tinually to the Place of Arms, partly for the Sake
of the Ranfoms or Trafficking, and partly as the
Diſcharge of an Obligation the Confederates were
under. The General looked into the moft minute
Matters that related to the carrying on of the
War, wherein great Dangers are often occafioned
by fmall Faults, and therefore a very extenfive Pru-
dence is required.
BUT while Hernan Cortes had his Thoughts em-
ployed in theſe Affairs, a new Accident happened,
which gave him much Trouble, tryed his Valour,
and was a convincing Proof of his Judgment: A
Spaniard, who had been long in the Service, came
to him full of Concern, and defired to ſpeak with
him in private; when that was granted, he in-
formed him, that during his Abfence, a Confpiracy
had been formed againſt his Life, and the Liveş
of all his Friends. The Author of it (as he faid)
was a private Soldier, of very fmall Note, as
may be fuppofed, fince the firft Time we hear of
his Name is with his Crime. He was called An-
tonio de Villafana, and his firft Intention was to
get off from that Enterprize, the Difficulties where-
of to him appeared infuperable. He fhewed his
Uneafinefs at first by murmuring, and foon pro-
ceeded to dangerous Refolutions. He, and thofe
of his Faction, blamed the General for his obftinate
Purfuit of that Conqueft, declaring they would not
caft themſelves away, to gratify his Rafhnefs; and
talking of returning to the Ifland of Cuba, as of a
Thing very eaſy to be performed. They met to
confult about this Point with much Secrecy, and
though they found no great Difficulty in quitting
the
Book V.
327
Conquest of MEXICO.
the Camp, and paffing as far as Tlafcala, by Virtue
of a fuppofed Order from the General, the Incon-
venience of going to Vera Cruz (which was unavoid-
able, in order to embark) immediately occurred:
for there they could not pretend a Commiffion or
Leave from Cortes, without a Paſs under his Hand,
nor avoid the Danger of being caft into Gaol,
and feverely puniſhed. This put them to a Non-
plus, and yet they perfifted in their Refolution of
withdrawing themſelves without fixing on the Way
how to compaſs it.
ANTONIO DE VILLAFANA, at whofe Lodging
they held all their Affemblies, at laft propoſed,
that all might be brought to pafs, by killing Cortes,
and his chief Counfellors, and electing another Ge-
neral in his Room, who had not fet his Heart fo
much upon the Conqueft of Mexico, and who would
be more governable; under whofe Command they
might retreat, without the Name of Fugitives, and
give it the Turn of a Piece of Service to Velasquez,
by whofe Repreſentation of it to the Court of Spain,
it might be efteemed as a Service done to the
King. They all approved of the Project, and em-
bracing Villafana, the Tumult began, by applaud-
ing the Sedition: They immediately drew up a
Writing, figned by all that were prefent, whereby
they obliged themfelves to follow Villafana in the
Execution of this horrible Attempt; and this Af-
fair was managed with fo much Dexterity, that
the Numbers of thoſe who figned, increafed confi-
derably and it was to be feared, that the ſecret
Contagion might break out into fuch an Evil, as
would admit of no Remedy.
THEY had agreed to feign a Pacquet from Vera-
Cruz, with Letters from Spain, and to give it to
the General, when he was at Table with his Com-
panions, all of them going in together, under
Y A
Colour
$
328
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
Colour of hearing the News; and that whilft Cortes
was employed in reading the first Letter, they
ſhould make Ufe of that Opportunity to murder
him, and all his Friends, with their Ponyards; af-
ter which, they were to go out, and proclaim Li-
berty in the Streets, which they thought was fuffi-
cient to make the Army declare for them, and put
to Death the reft that were fufpected. The Per-
fons they had marked out for Deſtruction, accord-
ing to their blind Notions, were Chriftoval de Olid,
Gonzalo de Sandoval, Pedro de Alvarado, and his
Brothers, Andres de Tapia, the two ordinary Al-
caldes, Luis Marin, Pedro de Ircio, Bernal Diaz
del Caftillo, and fome other Soldiers, Favourites of
the General. They had agreed to choofe Francifeo
Verdugo for their Captain-General, becauſe he had
.married a Sifter of Diego Velasquez, and therefore
they thought he might be eaſily brought over, and
was the propereſt Perſon to fupport and credit their
Party. But as they knew he was a Man of Honour,
and an Enemy to Injuftice, they durft not acquaint
him with their Defign, till the Crime was once com-
mitted, when they concluded he would be obliged
to take upon himſelf the Employment, to prevent
greater Evils.
SUCH was the Account given by the Soldier,
who begged his Life as a Reward of his Fidelity,
for he was one engaged in the Confpiracy. Her
Han Cortes refolved to affift in Perfon at the feizing
of Villafana, and at the firſt Meaſures that were to
be taken, to convict him of his Crime: becauſe
the clearing up, or obfcuring of the Truth, ufual-
ly depends on theſe firft Steps. The Importance
of the Affair required no lefs Precaution, and it
was no Time to obferve the flow Procedures of
judiciary Forms. He went immediately to fecure
Villafana, attended by the two Alcaldes, and fome
of
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
329
of his Captains, and found him in his Quarters,
with three or four of his Accomplices. The Trou-
ble he was in at the Sight of his General, was his
firſt Conviction; and Cortes, after he had ordered
him to be put in Irons, caufed all to retire, pre-
tending to examine him in private; when, making
his Advantage of the Account that had been given
him, he took out of his Bofom the Paper figned
by all the Confpirators. He read it, and found the
Names of fome Perfons, whofe Infidelity very
much increaſed his Concern; but concealing it
from his Friends, he caufed the Soldiers, who were
found with Villafana, to be put into another Pri-
fon; and then withdrew, leaving Inſtructions with
the Officers of Juftice, to proceed upon his Tryal
with all poffible Speed, without taking any Notice
of his Accomplices. There was not much to do
in it; for Villafana being convicted by the feizing
of his Paper, and believing that his Friends had
betrayed him, immediately confeffed his Crime:
whereupon they proceeded againft him by the
Rules of Military Juftice, and condemned him to
die, which Sentence (after allowing him the necef-
fary Time for diſcharging his Duty as a Chriftian)
was put in Execution that very Night; and the
next Morning he was feen hanging at the Window
of his own Lodging; fo that the Puniſhment was
feen at the fame Time that the Cauſe of it was pub-
liſhed, the Guilty being ftruck with Fear, and the
reft with an Abhorrence of the Crime.
CORTES was equally afflicted and provoked to
fee the Number of thofe concerned in the Confpi-
racy; but it was no proper Time to fatisfy Juftice
by the Lofs of fo many Spaniards at the Beginning
of his Enterprize; and therefore, to avoid puniſh-
ing the Guilty, and at the fame Time the Incon-
veniences of Impunity, he gave it out, that Villa-
fana
:
330 The HISTORY of the
Book V.
fana had fwallowed a Paper, torn in Pieces, which
he believed contained the Names or Hands of the
Confpirators. Soon after, he affembled his Cap-
tains and Soldiers, and gave them a fummary Ac-
count of the horrid Deſign and Confpiracy of Villa-
fana against his Life, and the Lives of many there
prefent; adding, "That he thought himfelf very
happy in not knowing whether he had any
"Accomplices; though the great Care Villafang
"took to deſtroy that Paper he carried in his Bo-
"fom, made him ſuſpect he had fome; but that
"he did not defire to know them; and only in-
"treated his Friends to enquire whether the Spa-
"niards had any Complaint to make of his Pro-
"ceedings: becauſe he was defirous, above all
"Things, to give intire Satisfaction to his Sol-
diers, and was as ready to correct his own Faults,
"as he knew how to uſe the Rigour of Juſtice,
"when the Lenity of his Puniſhments made them
❝lofe their Influence."
<<
AT the fame Time he ordered the Soldiers, that
had been taken with Villafana, to be fet at Liberty;
and this Declaration of his Mind, confirmed by the
Care he took to fhew no Change in his Counte-
nance to thoſe who had offended, fully perfuaded
them that he was ignorant of their Crime; and they
afterwards ferved with extraordinary Care, to re-
move any Sufpicions of their Fidelity.
It was a very important Act of Prudence to
conceal that Paper of Subfcriptions, to avoid lofing
fo many Spaniards, of whom he ftood in Need at
that Time; but it was a greater Action to conceal
his Indignation, fo as not to give them the leaſt
Occafion of Diftruft: It fhewed, that his Reafon
was free, and that he had an abfolute Command of
his Paffions. However, not thinking fuch an ex-
ceffive Security, which lays Care afleep, and feems
to
Book V.
Q
Conquest of MEXICO.
331
1
to invite Danger, to be confiftent with Difcretion,
he then ordered twelve Men for the Guard of his
Perfon, commanded by an Officer; and it is likely
he made uſe of this Opportunity, that the People
might, without Surprize, fee this new Addition to
the Support of his Authority.
Soon after he was perplexed with another Affair,
which though of a different Sort, had yet fome Cir-
cumftances of Sedition: for Xicotencal, who com-
manded the firſt Troops that came from Tlafcala,
either upon fome Difguft, which may be eaſily ſup-
pofed, confidering his haughty Temper, or that he
ftill preſerved in his Mind fome Remains of his for-
mer Enmity, refolved to leave the Army; affem-
bling fome Companies, which, upon his earneft In-
treaty, offered to ftand by him. He took the
Advantage of the Night for his Retreat: and Her-
nan Cortes, who was prefently informed of it by
the Tlafcalans themſelves, was much concerned at
a Behaviour of ſuch dangerous Confequence, of fo
confiderable a Commander among thofe Nations,
at a Time when he was juft ready to put his De-
figns in Execution. He fent fome noble Indians of
Tezeuco after him, to perfuade him to return, or at
leaſt to ſtay till he had heard what he had to offer;
but the Anſwer of Xicotencal (which was not only
refolute, but difcourteous, and with Contempt) fo
provoked Cortes, that he immediately fent three
Companies of Spaniards, with an additional Force
of Tezeucan Indians and Chalquefes, with Orders to
take him Priſoner, or kill him in caſe of Reſiſtance.
The latter was put in Execution, for he made an
obftinate Defence to the laft; and the Tlafcalans,
who followed him contrary to their own Incli-
nation, fhewed but little Refolution upon this
Occafion, and returned with the Spaniards to the
Army,
332
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
Army, leaving their Commander hanging upon
a Tree.
THUS Bernal Diaz del Caftillo reports this Action;
but Antonio de Herrera fays, he was brought to Te-
zeuco, and that Hernan Cortes, by Virtue of a Power
from the Republick of Tlafcala, hanged him pub-
lickly in the City; which is not fo likely, becauſe
he might have run a Rifque among fo great a Num-
ber of Tlafcalans, who could not but refent the Af-
front of fo fhameful a Puniſhment, inflicted on the
Perfon of one of the firft Men of their Nation.
SOME fay, that the Spaniards fent after him by
Cortes, had private Orders to kill him, which feems
to me the fafeft Refolution could have been taken
;
but which way foever it was done, the extraordi-
nary Forefight and Prudence of the General in
managing this Affair cannot be denied, fince nei-
ther the Tlafcalans of the Army, nor the Republick,
nor even his own Father, made the leaſt Complaint
for his Death; for having been informed fome Days
before, that the young Man fo far forgot himfelf
as to ſpeak ill of his Conduct, and endeavoured to
difcredit among thoſe of his Nation the Enterprize
upon Mexico, Cortes fent an Account of it to Tlaf-
cala, defiring they would recall him, upon Pre-
tence of employing him elſewhere, or make ufe
of their Authority to correct his Diſorders: And
the Senate, in which his own Father was prefent,
anfwered, That according to the Laws of the Re-
publick, whofoever was guilty of Mutiny in the
Army deferved Death; and that he might pro-
ceed againſt him with the utmoft Rigour, if he
found it neceffary, as they would do both againſt
Xicotencal and all that followed him, if they re-
turned to Tlafcala. This Permiffion gave Cortes
full Authority to puniſh Xicotencal; yet he fuffered
his Infolence for fome Days, in Hopes to reduce
him
Book V.
333
Conquest of MEXICO.
him by gentle Means. But we are more inclined
to believe, that he was put to Death without the
City of Tezeuco, according to the Relation of Bernal
Diaz; for Cortes very well knew the Difference be-
tween the Sight of an Action of ſo much Severity, and
the Relation of it after it was done: it being an evi-
dent Maxim, That the ftrongeft Impreffions upon
the Mind, are thoſe which are received by the Eye;
whereas thofe received by the Ear, have neither the
like Strength, nor Livelinefs.
CHA P. XX.
The Brigantines are launched, and the Army
divided into three Parts for attacking
the City at the fame Time, by the Caufe-
ways of Tacuba, Iztapalapa, and Cuyoa-
can. Hernan Cortes advances upon the
Lake, and defeats a great Fleet of Mexi-
can Canoes.
The thefe Accideneneral,
any
HO' thefe Accidents employed fome Part of
the Cares of the General, he did not omit
thing that was neceffary for the carrying on his main
Defign. The Brigantines were launched by De-
grees, a Work happily brought to a Conclufion by
the Induſtry of Martin Lopez. Before the launch-
ing, they celebrated a Maſs of the Holy Ghoſt, at
which Cortes received the Communion with all the
Spaniards. The Prieſt bleffed the Hulls, and gave
each of them its Name, according to the Cuſtom
of the Sea; and whilſt they were carrying on board
the Sails, Rigging, and whatever elfe was wanting,
Cortes reviewed his Spaniards under Arms: They
con-
334
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
+
confifted of nine hundred Men, of which a hundred
fourſcore and fourteen were Fire-Arms and Croſs-
Bows, the reſt were armed with Sword and Buckler,
and Lance; eighty-fix Horfe, and eighteen Pieces
of Cannon, the three largeſt of Iron, and the other
fifteen Falconets of Brafs, with fufficient Stores of
Powder and Ball.
CORTES put five and twenty Spaniards on board
each Veffel, under the Command of a Captain, with
twelve Rowers, fix on each Side, and one Piece of
Artillery. The Captains were Pedro de Barba Native
of Sevil, Garcia de Holquin of Cazeres, Juan Portillo
of Portillo, Juan Rodriguez de Villefuerte of Medellin,
Juan Jaramillo of Salvatierra in Eftremadura, Mi-
guel Diaz of Auz an Arragonian, Francifco Rodri-
guez Magarino of Merida, Chriftoval Flores of Va-
lencia de Don Juan, Antonio de Caravaxal of Za-
mora, Geronimo Ruiz de la Mota of Burgos, Pedro
Briones of Salamanca, Rodrigo Morejon de Lobera
of Medina del Campo, and Antonio Sotelo of Za-
mora, who immediately embarked, each one pre-
pared to defend his own Veffel, and fuccour the
reft.
THINGS being thus difpofed for the Entry by
the Lake, Cortes refolved, with the Approbation
of his Captains, to poffefs himſelf at the fame time.
of the three principal Caufways of Tacuba, Izta-
palapa, and Cuyoacan, without regarding that of
Suchimilco, that he might avoid feparating his
Troops too far, and poft them where they might
receive his Orders with leaft Difficulty. To this
End, he divided his Army into three Bodies, and
committed the Expedition of Tacuba to Pedro de
Alvarado, with the Title of Governor and Com-
mander in Chief of that Avenue: He had under
his Command a hundred and fifty Spanish Foot,
and thirty Horſe, in three Bodies, led by the Cap-
tains
Book V.
Conqueft of MEXICO.
335
tains Jorge de Alvarado, Gutiere de Badajoz, and
Andres de Monjaraz, with thirty thoufand Tlafcalans,
and two Pieces of Artillery. The Attack of Cuyoa-
can was committed to the Colonel Chriftoval de Olid,
with a hundred and fixty Spanish Foot, in three
Companies, under the Command of Francifco Ver-
dugo, Andres de Tapia, and Francifco de Lugo, with
thirty Horſe, two Pieces of Artillery, and thirty
Thouſand confederate Indians. Laftly, he gave the
Charge of the Attack of Iztapalapa to Gonzalo de
Sandoval, with a hundred and fifty Spaniards, com-
manded by the Captains Luis Marin, and Pedro de
Ircio, with two Pieces of Cannon, twenty-four
Horfe, with all the Troops of Chalco, Guaxocingo,
and Cholula, amounting to above forty thouſand
Men. In this Number of Indians, who ſerved at
the three Attacks, we follow the Opinion of Her-
rera; for Bernal Diaz del Caftillo allows no more
than 8000 Tlaftalans to each of the three Captains,
and repeats it fometimes, that they were rather an
Hindrance, than any Advancement to the Service;
without telling us what became of ſo many thouſand
Men as came from all Parts to the Siege of that Ci-
ty: which plainly fhews the Vanity he had of at-
tributing all the Glory of the Action to the Spa-
niards, in our Opinion without much Difcretion,
becauſe it renders that incredible, which he would
endeavour to extol, when the Truth itfelf needed
no Addition.
OLID and ALVARADO marched together as far
as Tacuba, where they were to ſeparate, and took
up their Quarters in that City without any Oppo-
fition, the fame being then abandoned, as were
all the other Towns upon the Lake, the Inhabitants
that were able to bear Arms, being all gone to
Mexico, to defend their Capital, and the reft re-
tired to the Mountains, with what Effects, they
could
336
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
could carry off. There they had Intelligence, that
the Mexicans had formed a confiderable Body with-
in half a League of the Town, to cover the Aque-
ducts which came from the Mountains of Chapulte-
peque. Guatimozin took this feaſonable Precaution,
as foon as he received News of the Motions of
the Spaniards, to preferve thoſe Conveyances which
fupplied all the Fountains in the City with freſh
Water.
THERE appeared on that Side two or three
Rows of Pipes, made of Trees hollowed, fup-
ported by an Aqueduct of Lime and Stone, and
the Enemy had caft up fome Trenches to cover the
Avenue to it. But the two Captains marched out of
Tacuba with moſt of their Troops; and tho' they
met with a very obftinate Refiftance, they drove
the Enemy from their Poft, and broke the Pipes
and Aqueduct in two or three Places, and the Wa-
ter took its natural Courfe into the Lake. Thus
Olid and Alvarado began the Siege of this famous
City, by cutting off their Water, obliging the
Mexicans to feek it at a Diſtance, in the Brooks
that ran from the Mountains, and to employ their
People and Canoes in Carriage and Convoys.
WHEN this was over, Olid marched on with his
Party, and took his Poft at Cuyoacan; and Cortes
allowing what Time he thought fufficient for San-
doval to reach Iztapalapa, took upon himſelf the
Command on the Lake, that he might overfee
every Thing, and carry Relief where it fhould be
neceffary: He had with him Don Fernando, Lord
of Tezeuco, and his Brother, called Suchel, a young
Man of Spirit, who was baptized foon after, and
took the Name of Carlos, as a Subject of the Em-
peror. Cortes left a fufficient Number of Troops
in that City, to cover his Place of Arms, and
make fome Excurfions to fecure the Communica-
tion
Book V. Conquest of Mexico.
337
tion of his Quarters. Having difpofed all Things
after this Manner, he embarked, drawing up his
thirteen Brigantines in a Line, adorning them with
Flags and Streamers, and whatever could add to
the outward Shew, and furprize the Enemy by
the Novelty.
His Deſign was to draw near to Mexico, and
fhew himſelf Lord of the Lake, and afterwards to
fall upon Iztapalapa, being under fome Concern
for Gonzalo de Sandoval, who had no Veffels to dif
lodge the Mexicans from that Part of the City
which ſtood in the Water, and continually ferved
as a Retreat for their Canoes. But in his Return,
he diſcovered, at a fmall Diſtance from the City,
a little Iſland or Heap of Rocks, a confiderable
Height above the Water, on the Top of which
ſtood a pretty large Caftle, which the Enemy had
poffeffed themſelves of to no other End, than to
provoke the Spaniards with ill Language and
Threats from a Poft where they thought themfelves
out of Danger of the Brigantines. Cortes did not
think it convenient to leave unpuniſhed this Info-
lence in View of the City, whofe Terraces and Bal-
conies were filled with innumerable People, who
came to ſee the firft Action of the Fleet; and find-
ing his Captains were all of the fame Opinion, he
drew near to the Shore of the Ifland, and landed
with a hundred and fifty Spaniards, who took two
or three different Paths that led to the Top. They
mounted with fome Difficulty, by Reaſon that the
Enemy were numerous and made a brave Defence;
till deſpairing of being able to make good the
Eminence, they retired into the Caftle, where they
were fo crowded, that they had not Room to ma-
nage their Arms. Many perished, though the
moft were fpared, the Spaniards being unwilling to
ftain their Swords in the Blood of thoſe that fur-
VOL. II.
rendered
Z
338 The HISTORY of the Book V.
rendered, or to be troubled with the Charge of
Priſoners.
HAVING, by this fhort Enterprize, chaſtized the
Mexicans, the Spaniards returned to their Brigan-
tines; but when they were difpofing themfelves to
make for Iztapalapa, they were obliged to take
other Meaſures; for they faw fome Canoes come
out of Mexico, which advanced upon the Lake, in-
creafing continually in Numbers. The firft that
advanced, rowing gently, were about five hundred,
waiting for the reft to come up; and in a fhort
Time, thofe which came out of the City, and
others that joined them from neighbouring Places,
made fo great a Number, that by the Room they
took up, it was judged they were about four thou-
fand; which Multitude, with the Motion of their
Feathers and Arms, afforded a Sight both beauti-
ful and terrible, and feemed to cover the Lake.
CORTES drew up his Fleet in the Form of a
Half-Moon, that he might extend his Front, and
engage at Liberty: He confided in the Valour of
his Soldiers, and the Advantage of his Brigantines,
every one of which was able to make Head againſt
a great Part of the Enemy's Fleet. With this Affu-
Fance he advanced towards the Mexicans, to let
them fee he did not decline the Battle; and then
ordered his Men to lie upon their Oars and reft,
that they being refreſhed, he might break in upon
the Enemy with the greater Force; for the Calm-
nefs of the Day left the whole Motion to the Labour
of the Rowers. The Mexicans did the fame, and
perhaps for the fame Reafon; but the Divine Pro-
vidence, which had fo often appear'd in favour of
the Spaniards, fo ordered it, that there came up a
Land-breez; which taking the Brigantines aftern,
gave them all the Force that was neceffary to fall
upon
Book V.
Conquest of Mexico.
339
upon the Mexicans: They began the Attack with
the Artillery, at a convenient Diſtance; and then
the Brigantines made up with Sails and Oars, over-
ſetting all that flood in their Way. The Fire-
Arms and Croſs-Bows made their Difcharges, with-
out lofing a Shot: The Wind too was favourable,
driving the Smoke upon the Enemy, blinding them
after fuch a Manner, that they were obliged to
give back, to avoid it; the Brigantines themſelves
playing their Parts, ftaving the fmaller Veffels,
whofe Weakneſs made it eaſy to fink them, with-
out any Danger from the Shock. The Nobles of
Mexico, who were in the first five hundred Canoes,
made fome Oppofition, but the reft was all Dif-
order and Confufion, the Canoes running foul on,
and overfetting one another. The Enemy loft
moſt of their Men, and their Fleet was intirely
broke and defeated; the Brigantines purſuing the
miferable Remains with their Canon-Shot, till
they forced them into the Canals of the City of
Mexico.
THIS Victory was of great Moment, on Account
of the Reputation the Brigantines gained of being
invincible; and becauſe it was a great Difcourage-
ment to the Mexicans, to fee themſelves deprived
of that Part of their Power, which confifted in the
dextrous Management and Swiftnefs of their Ca-
noes; not for the Number of them that they then
loft, which was then inconfiderable, in regard of
what they had ſtill in Referve; but becauſe they
were convinced, that they were of no Ufe, and in-
capable of ſuſtaining the violent Shock of the Bri-
gantines. The Spaniards remained Mafters of the
Lake, and Cortes failed about the City, firing fome
Shot into it, rather by way of Triumph, than for any
Damage he did the Enemy: Nor was he difpleafed
to behold the Multitude of People that cover'd the
Towers
Z 2
}
340
The HISTORY of the
{
Book V.
Towers and Tops of the Houſes, to fee the Event
of the Engagement; on the contrary, he was fo
glad to have them Spectators of their own Lofs,
that though in Reality they were too many, confi-
dered as Enemies, he thought them too few, as
Witneſſes of his Exploit.
CHA P. XXI.
Cortes goes to view the three Bodies of his
Troops, as they were posted on the different
Caufways of Cuyoacan, Iztapalapa, and Ta-
cuba, and finds that in each Place they had
Occafion for the Afiflance of the Brigan-
tines; whereupon he leaves Four with Gon-
zalo de Sandoval, Four with Pedro de Al-
varado, and retires himself to Cuyoacan with
the other Five.
ORTES chofe a Poft near Tezeuco, where
he might paſs the Night, and reft his Troops
with fome Security; but in the Morning, when the
Brigantines were preparing to fail for Iztapalapa,
he diſcovered a confiderable Number of Canoes,
that were making the beſt of their Way towards
Cuyoacan; whereupon he refolved to carry Succour
to that Place firſt, where it was immediately wan-
ted. It was not poffible to come up with the Ene-
my's Fleet; but he arrived foon after them, at the
Time when Chriftoval de Olid was engaged on the
Caufway, and obliged to make a Front againft the
Enemy that defended it, and to the Canoes on each
Side, and was on the Point of retiring and lofing
the Ground he had gained.
NECES
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
341
NECESSITY taught the Mexicans, as much as
the Art of War could have done, for the Defence
of their Caufways. They had drawn up, towards
the City, the Bridges that were over the Paffages,
by which the Waters of the great Lake difcharged
themſelves into the other; and fixing Timbers and
Planks behind them, in fuch a Manner that they
might mount in Ranks to charge from the Top,
they left Trenches at proper Diſtances with Water
running before them, which obſtructed and made
the Accefs difficult. After this Manner they had
fortified the three Caufways attacked by the Spa-
xiards, who in each were obliged to take almoft
the fame Meaſures to overcome the Difficulty.
The Fire-Arms, and Croſs-Bows, played upon
thoſe who appeared above the Trench, whilft o-
thers handed Fafcines to fill the Ditch ; after
which, they brought up a Piece of Artillery, and
in a few Diſcharges clear'd the Paffage, filling up
the next Ditch with the Ruins of its own Fortifi-
cation.
OLID had just made himſelf Mafter of the firſt
Ditch, when the Mexican Canoes arrived; but
on Sight of the Brigantines, all thofe on that
Side, fled with the utmoft Diligence, and none fuf-
fered but thofe who could not avoid the Reach of
the Canon: But becauſe the Mexicans on the o-
ther Side, who thought themfelves fecure, ftill con-
tinued the Egagement, Hernan Cortes ordered the
Ditch in the Rear of Olid to be widened, to make
a Paffage for three or four Brigantines: at the firſt
Sight whereof, all the Canoes fled, and the Enemy,
who defended the next Bridge, finding themfelves
expoſed to the great Shot, from both the Land and
Water, retired in Diſorder to the laft Rampart next
the City.
Z 3
THAT
342
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
THAT Night the Troops took fome Reft, with-
out abandoning the Ground they had gained upon
the Caufey, and the next Morning continued their
March with little or no Oppofition, till coming to
the laft Bridge which was at the Entrance into
Mexico, they found it fortified with ftronger Works,
Trenches cut in the Streets, and defended by fuch
a Multitude of People, that the Enterprize feem'd
hazardous; but the Difficulty did not appear till
they were engaged, and it was not proper to retire,
without doing fome Execution to terrify the Ene-
my. The Artillery from the Brigantines made a
miferable Slaughter of the People who were in
Crowds at the Openings of the Streets, whilft Chri-
ftoval de Olid was employed in filling the Ditch, and
ruining the Fortifications of the Caufey. Which
when he had done, he charged the Mexicans who
defended them, making Room with his Van-guard
for the Confederate Troops under his Command to
come up. The Enemy at the fame Time was fup-
ported by Troops from the City, and made an
obftinate Reſiſtance on all Sides: but they foon loſt
fome Ground; and Hernan Cortes, who could not
bear the Slownefs with which they retreated,
landed with thirty Spaniards, and gave fo much
Life to the Attack, that the Enemy quickly turned
their Backs, and the chief Street of Mexico was
gained.
ANOTHER Difficulty immediately occurred; for
the Mexicans that fled, had poffeffed themſelves of
a Temple near the Entrance into the City, co-
vering the Towers, Stairs, and all the Out-fide with
fuch Numbers of Men, that the whole Building ap-
peared like a Hill of Arms and Feathers. They
defied the Spaniards with as much Boldnefs, as if
they had been always Conquerors. Cortes, pro-
voked at their Pride, when they had juſt before
fhewn
1
Book V.
343
Conquest of MEXICO.
fhewn fo much Cowardice, ordered three or four
Pieces of Artillery to be landed, the firſt Diſcharge
whereof made them fenfible of their Danger, and
the Spaniards were foon obliged to point their Can-
non lower against thoſe that fled to the inner Part
of the City. Thus all that Quarter was forfaken;
for thoſe who fought from Windows, and from
the Tops of the Houfes, went off with the reft;
ſo that the Army advanced, and the Temple was
gained without any further Oppofition.
THAT Day the Mexicans fuftained a very great
Lofs of Men. The Idols were caft into the Fire,
and ferved to make Illuminations for the Victory.
Hernan Cortes was fatisfied, that he had gained
Footing in the City; and finding the Temple ca-
pable of a more than ordinary Defence, he not
only refolved to lodge his Troops there that Night,
but had Thoughts of maintaining that Poft, to
ſtreighten the Enemy, and of removing his Quar-
ters from Cuyoacan thither. He communicated his
Defign to his Captains, with the Reafons that in-
duced him to it; but they all unanimously repre-
fented to him, That as they were ignorant what Pro-
grefs Gonzalo de Sandoval, and Pedro de Alvarado
bad made, at their Attacks, it would be Rafonefs to
run the Rifque of lofing the Paffage of the Caufway,
and at the fame Time all Hopes of receiving the
Ammunition and Provifion which would be necef-
fary for the Preſervation of the Troops. That they
were not to trust to their being brought by the Bri-
gantines, because thofe Veffels could not enter the
Water-Trenches of that Part, and therefore would be
forced to land the Provifions at fuch a Distance,
that they could neither receive, nor tranſport them
to their Garrison, withont fighting a Battle every
Time. That they ought to make their Advances,
equally at each Attack, in order to divide the Enemy's
Z 4
Forces
344 The HISTORY of the Book V.
Forces, and be affifting to each other, until fuch Time
as they ſhould all have taken up their Quarters in the
City. And lastly, That the Refolutions which had
been taken with the Approbation of all the Captains
for the carrying on of that Siege, ought not to be
altered without very mature Deliberation; nor ought
they to expose themfelves voluntarily to a Danger,
without a better Reason than the Reputation of that
Day's Victory; the Confequences of good Success not
being always to be depended on, for that, like Flat-
tery, it very often deceived the Understanding, at the
Same Time that it pleafed the Imagination. Hernan
Cortes was convinced, that their Advice was good;
for it was one of the beſt Qualities, that he eafily
forfook his own Opinion, to follow the Dictates of
Reaſon; and accordingly the next Day he retir'd to
Cuyoacan, protected on each Side by his Brigan-
tines, fo that the Enemy durft not attempt to diſturb
his March.
THE fame Day he proceeded to Iztapalapa,
where he found Gonzalo de Sandoval reduced to the
laft Extremity. He had poffeffed himſelf of the
Buildings on the Land, and lodged his Army there,
fortifying himſelf the beſt he could; but the Ene-
my, who retired to that Part that was in the Wa-
ter, endeavoured from their Canoes to do him all
the Damage they could. Sandoval had made great
Havock among thofe that approached, ruined
fome Houfes, and overthrown Two or Three Suc-
cours from Mexico, that came to attack him by
Land; and that Day the Enemy having forfaken a
large Houfe, which was but little diftant from the
Land, he refolved to feize it, in order to inlarge
his Quarters, and drive the Enemy farther off. He
made a Paſſage thro' the Water with Faſcines, and
got into the Houfe with fome of his People; but
he had fcarce entered, when a great Number of
Canoes,
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
345
Canoes, which had lain in Ambuſh, advanced with
Troops of Swimmers, who flung themſelves into
the Water, and taking away the Fafcines, cut off
Sandoval's Retreat; by which Means they befieged
him on all Sides fhooting at the Spaniards from
the Terraces and Windows of the neighbouring
Houſes.
He was in this Diftrefs, when Hernan Cortes ar-
rived; who difcovering that vaft Number of Ca-
noes in the Water-ftreets, which looked towards.
Mexico, made his Brigantines advance with all
poffible Speed, and played his Artillery with fuch
good Effect, that, terrified by the Deſtruction the
Balls made, and the Approach of the Brigantines,
they all fled at once thro' the moſt retired Streets
in the Town, with a Defign to get thro' into the
Lake; and fuch was their Diſorder, that the Peo-
ple who were upon the Terraces, crouding into
the Canoes, funk many of them, and the reft, in
their Flight, fell in among the Brigantines, as they
were endeavouring to avoid that Danger. The
Mexicans fuftained fuch a Lofs that Day, as di-
miniſhed their Forces confiderably; and the Spa-
niards afterwards taking a View of that Part of
the City they had poffeffed themſelves of, made
fome Priſoners, and found a fufficient Booty, not
to enrich, but to pleaſe the Soldiers. Cortes per-
ceived by the Difficulties which Gonzalo de Sando-
val had met with at Iztapalapa, that it was im-
poffible to make ufe of the Caufway, without firſt
ruining that Half of the City which was the Re-
treat of the Mexican Canoes; but becauſe this
would occafion a Delay which might be of Dan-
gerous Confequence to the other Attacks, he re-
folved to quit that Poſt, and diſpatch Sandoval to
poffefs himſelf of Tapeaquilla, where there was
another narrower Caufway, lefs commodious for
attacking,
346
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
attacking, but more advantageous for cutting off
the Enemy's Provifions, which they began to want,
and which were brought to them that Way. This
Deſign was immediately put in Execution, and
Sandoval marched by Land, eſcorted by the Bri-
gantines, till he had got poffeffion of the new Quar-
ters. The Place was forfaken, and he lodged him-
felf there without Refiftance, after which Hernan
Cortes failed to Tacuba.
ALVARADO found this City deferted, and had
therefore no Need of a Victory to begin his Ad-
vances. In his further Progrefs he met with vari-
ous Succefs; he beat down the Works, and filled
up
the Ditches after the fame Manner that Olid had
done; but tho' he did the Enemy confiderable Da-
mage, and had once advanced fo far as to fire fome
Houfes in Mexico, he had loft Eight Spaniards, when
Cortes arrived. A Lofs which occafioned fome
Mixture of Regret with the Applaufes of his Va-
lour.
HERNAN CORTES found the Meafures he had
taken did not anfwer his Defigns; for this way of
attacking and retreating, confumed his Time, and
expoſed his Men without any great Advantage,
and was rather doing Acts of Hoftility, than ma-
king a Progreſs. To proceed by the Caufways was
very difficult, by reafon of the Trenches and
Ditches, which the Mexicans were fortifying every
Day, and the continual Perfecution of their Ca-
noes, which always charged in great Numbers
where-ever the Brigantines quitted; for which Rea-
fon he was obliged to think of other Meaſures for
the facilitating of his Enterprize.
He then commanded all Attacks to ceaſe till
further Orders, and applied himſelf to the provi-
ding fuch a Number of Canoes, as might fecure him
the Dominion of the Lake; to which End he ſent
fuch
Book V.
347
Conquest of MEXICO.
ད
fuch Perfons as he could confide in, to bring all
the Canoes that remained in the Towns of his
Allies, with which, and thoſe that came from Te-
zeuco and Chalco, he made up fuch a Number as
gave freſh Terror to the Enemy. He divided
them into three Squadrons, manned by Indians,
who knew how to manage them, under the Com-
mand of Captains of their own Nation; and ha-
ving diftributed this Reinforcement among the Bri-
gantines, he fent Four of them to Sandoval, Four
to Pedro de Alvarado, and he himfelf with the other
Five joined the Colonel Chriftoval de Olid.
FROM that Day the Attacks were carried on with
much more Eafe, and a Stop intirely put to the In-
fults of the Enemy; and Hernan Cortes at the fame
time ordered the Brigantines, and Canoes to make
their Rounds on the Lake, and coaft along the
Three Caufways, to hinder the fupplying of the
City, by which Means many Veffels were taken,
that endeavoured to paſs with Provifions and Bar-
rels of Water, and they were informed of the great
Diſtreſs to which the Befieged were reduced. Olid
fometimes advanced fo far, as to demoliſh fome
Houſes in the Suburbs of the City. Alvarado and
Sandoval did the fame at their Attacks; with which
good Succefs, the Face of Affairs intirely changed,
the Army conceived freſh Hopes, and the meaneft
Soldiers facilitated the Undertaking, engaging with
that chearful Confidence, which looks like Valour,
and makes thoſe bold who are prepoffeffed with a
Notion of Victory, becauſe they have had the good
Fortune to be in Company with Conquerors.
CHAP.
348
The HISTORY of the Book V.
CHA P. XXII...
Hernan
The Mexicans make use of various Stratagems
for their Defence: They lay an Ambufcade
of Canoes for the Brigantines.
Cortes receives a confiderable Defeat, and
is forced to retire to Cuyoacan.
THE Diligence and Induſtry of the Mexicans in
Defence of their City, was not only remark-
able, but in fome of its Circumftances worthy of
Admiration. 'Tis true, they were naturally vali-
ant, and bred up in Arms, which was the only
way to arrive at the greateſt Dignities: But on this
Occafion, they did not only fhew Valour, but
added military Skill; for they ſtood in Need of
new Inventions, against an Invafion, by a People,
whoſe Weapons and Conduct in War were utterly
unknown in their Country; and they gained fome
Advantages, whereby they raiſed the Reputation
of their good Senfe. We have already related af-
ter what Manner they fortified their Caufways;
and what they did afterwards, was no leſs remark-
able, when they fent by round about Ways Ca-
noes of Pioneers to clear the Ditches which the Spa-
niards had been filling up, that they might fall up-
on them with their whole Force, when they fhould
be obliged to retire: A Stratagem which occafioned
the Lofs of fome Soldiers in the firft Attacks. By
Degrees they found out another ftill more re-
markable; for they acted contrary to their Cuftom,
when Occafion required, and made fome Sallies by
Night, only to alarm their Enemies, and fatigue
them by want of Sleep, that they might after-
wards
Book V.
349
Conquest of MEXICO.
wards attack them with the Advantage of freſh
Troops.
BUT nothing fhewed their Induſtry and Ingenui-
ty more than what they contrived againſt the Bri-
gantines, whofe fuperior Force they endeavoured
to deſtroy by engaging them feparate; for which
End they built thirty great Veffels of that Sort
which they called Piraguas, but of a larger Size,
and ſtrengthened with great Planks, to receive the
Shot, and engage under better Shelter. They fal-
lied forth in the Night with this Fleet, to poft
themſelves behind the Reeds in the Lake, which
grew fo high and thick, that they formed, as it
were, feveral Groves impenetrable to the Sight.
Their Deſign was to draw thither the Brigantines,
which uſed to cruize about, two at a Time, to pre-
vent any Relief getting into the City; and in order
to entice them to that Wood of Reeds, they
had provided three or four Canoes laden with Pro-
vifions as a Bait, having likewife fixed a good
Number of large Stakes in the Water, in hopes ei-
ther to deſtroy the Brigantines, or to make it eaſier
to board them. Thefe Contrivances fufficiently
fhew that they knew how to defend themſelves,
and offend their Enemies, and that they wanted
not thoſe Subtilties, which make Men ingenious in
each other's Deftruction, and are, in a manner,
the Rudiments of the military Art, or rather un-
righteous Maxims on which the Rights of War are
founded.
THE next Day two of the four Brigantines that
attended Sandoval, went out to cruife about that
Part, under the Command of the Captains Pedro de
Barba, and Juan Portillo. As foon as the Mexicans
fpyed them, they fent out their Canoes another
Way, that being feen at a Diftance, they might
pretend to fly, and fo retire among the Reeds;
which
350
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
which was fo well executed, that the two Brigan-
tines purſued the Prize with the utmoft Force of
their Oars, and foon fell in among the hidden
Stakes, where they were fo embaraffed, that they
could neither go forward nor backward.
;
AT the fame time the Enemies Piraguas came
out, and attacked them on all Sides with defpe-
rate Fury. The Spaniards were near being loft:
but employing the utmoſt Efforts of their Courage,
they maintained the Fight, and kept the Enemy in
Play until fuch time as certain expert Swimmers,
by main Strength of Arms, and with Hatchets and
other Tools, removed thoſe Stakes, among which
the Brigantines were faftened; and our Men be-
ing thus at Liberty to work their Veffels, and play
their Artillery, funk moſt of the Piraguas, and fol-
lowed the reft as far as the Cannon-Ball would reach.
The Mexicans fuffered fufficiently for their Strata-
gem, but the Brigantines were very much damaged,
feveral Spaniards wounded, and all very much fa-
tigued. Captain Juan Portillo was killed valiantly
fighting, to whofe indefatigable Bravery the Suc-
cefs was chiefly owing; and Captain Pedro de Barba
received feveral Wounds, of which he died three
Days after. Both thefe Loffes Hernan Cortes greatly
lamented, and particularly that of Pedro de Bar-
ba; for in him he loft a Friend, ever fteady in
all Turns of Fortune, and a brave Soldier, with-
out Arrogance, and difcreet without being ti-
morous.
J
It was not long before this Difafter was revenged;
for the Mexicans having repaired their Piraguas,
and reinforced them with new Veffels of the fame
kind, concealed themfelves a fecond Time among
the Reeds, fortifying the Avenue with a great Num-
ber of Stakes, indifcreetly imagining that the Spa-
niards would again fall into the fame Snare, with-
out
Book V.
351
Conquest of MEXICO.
out their giving a different Colour to the Deceit.
Cortes very luckily got Intelligence of this Motion
of the Enemy, and being extremely defirous of re-
venging the Lofs he had fuftained as foon as pof-
fibly he could, he ordered fix Brigantines to file off
in the Night, and to lie in Ambuſh among another
Parcel of Reeds not far from the Place where the
Enemy had hid themſelves; and that making uſe
of their own Stratagem, one of them fhould fally
forth early in the Morning, feeming by her different
Courſes to be in Search of the Canoes laden with
Provifions, and afterwards draw as near the con-
cealed Piraguas, as was neceffary to let them fee
they were diſcovered; which done, ſhe was to tack
about, and by a hafty Flight, to entice them to the
Place of the Counter-Ambufcade. Every thing
fucceeded as could have been wiſhed: the Enemy
fallied out with their Piraguas in purfuit of the Bri-
gantine, making after this Prize, (which they
looked upon as their own) with great Shoutings,
and greater Speed, till being come within a con-
venient Diſtance, the other Brigantines ruſhed out
upon them; and before they could poffibly ſtop,
or turn about, gave them fuch a terrible Salute
with all their Artillery, that the very firſt Diſcharge
overſet a great Part of them, and put the Mexicans,
who were on board the reft, into fuch a Confterna-
tion, that before they could recover themfelves to
think of flying, almoſt all the Piraguas were funk
by the next Volleys, and moſt of the Men pe-
rifhed: So that not only the Death of Pedro de
Barba and Juan de Portillo was revenged, but the
Enemy's Fleet intirely ruined; and though Hernan
Cortes was fenfible, that he owed to the Mexicans
the Cunning or Invention of laying Ambuſhes in
the Water, he had the fingular Satisfaction of ha-
ving fo well imitated them, as to give them a De-
feat by the Ufe of their own Stratagem.
THE
352
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
THE Spaniards had frequent Intelligence of what
paffed in the City by the Prifoners they continually
took; and Cortes finding that Hunger, Thirft, and
Want of all Neceffaries, began to occafion Mur-
murings among the People, and a Difference in
Opinion among the Soldiers, he applied himſelf
with the greater Diligence to cut off all Relief from
the City; and that he might ſtill farther juſtify his
own Proceedings, he fent two or three Noblemen,
who were his Prifoners, to Guatimozin, with Over-
tures of Peace upon very advantageous Conditions,
offering to leave him in full Poffeffion of his Em-
pire, and all his Granduer, provided he would on-
ly acknowledge the Sovereign Dominion of the King
of Spain, whofe Right was already owned among
the Mexicans by the Tradition of their Anceſtors,
and the Confent of feveral Ages. This was the
Subſtance of his Propofal, which he repeated feve-
ral Times; for, in Reality, it grieved him to de-
ſtroy fo beautiful and fo wealthy a City, which he
already looked upon as a rich Jewel in his Sovereign's
Diadem.
GUATIMOZIN received the Propofal made him
by the Spanish General with fomewhat lefs Pride
and Arrogance than he was wont; and as ſeveral
Priſoners afterwards reported, he affembled a Coun-
cil of his chief Officers and Minifters, together
with the Prieſts, whofe Opinions were principally
confidered in all publick Affairs. "He laid be-·
"fore them the miferable Condition to which the
"City was reduced; the Numbers they had loſt;
"the Complaints of the People upon their begin-
"ning to want; the Deſtruction of their Habita-
"tions; and, laſtly, he defired their Advice, ex-
re
preffing as much Inclination to Peace, as was
"fufficient to give Room for their Flattery or Re-
"ſpect to fecond him." This fo far fucceeded,
that
Book V.
353
Conquest of MEXICO.
that all his Officers and Minifters concluded imme-
diately to receive the Overtures towards an Accom-
modation made him by Cortes, leaving it till after-
wards to confider of fuch particular Conditions of
a Peace, as would be moſt for the Intereſt of the
State.
BUT the Priests pofitively oppofed all manner of
Treaty, either feigning to have received fome An-
fwers from their Idols, which gave them freſh Af-
furances of Succefs and Victory over their Enemies;
or, perhaps, what they delivered were not Lies of
their own Invention, but what they really had re-
ceived from them; for the Devil at that Time
was extremely bufy, inftilling into the Ears of thofe
deluded People ftrange and fallacious Notions,
though he could not infpire their Hearts with true
Courage.
THE Opinion of the Priefts, being backed by
Zeal for Religion, or, if that was wanting, by the
outward Shew of Piety, fo far prevailed, that all
who had Votes concurred with them, and Guati-
mozin, not without much Regret, becauſe he already
began to prefage his own Ruin, refolved to carry
on the War; telling his Minifters, "That he af
furedly would put to Death the firſt Man who
"fhould prefume again to mention 'Peace, what-
"ever Diſtreſs the City fhould be reduced to,
"without excepting even the Priefts themſelves,
who were moft of all obliged to fupport the
"Oracles of their Gods."
CORTES being informed of this Determination,
reſolved to puſh on his Hoftilities, by the three
Cauſways at the fame Time, and to carry Fire and
Sword into the very Heart of the City; and fend-
ing his Orders to the Commanders of the two At-
tacks of Tacuba and Tapeaquilla, he at the Time
appointed marched himfelf by the Caufway of
VOL. II.
Cuyoacan,
A a
354 The HISTORY of the Book V.
Cuyoacan, at the Head of the Troops commanded
by Chriftoval de Olid. The Enemy had cleared the
Ditches, and caft up Works as they were wont to
do; but the five Brigantines which were upon that
Attack, eaſily overthrew their Fortifications at the
fame Time that the Ditches were filling up, and
the Army advanced without any confiderable Op-
pofition, 'till coming to the laft Bridge which
opened upon the Key of the City, they met with
another fort of Difficulty. The Indians had broke
down fome Part of the Caufway, to inlarge that
Ditch, which was fixty Feet long, and turned into
it the Water of the Canals, that it might be the
deeper.
ON the oppofite Bank they had raiſed a Fortifi-
cation made of Timbers ftrongly united, and
covered with Planks, in which there were two or
three Rows of Loop-holes, with ſome fort of Tra-
verfes, and they had provided a prodigious Mul-
titude of Men to defend that Poft; but the firſt
Diſcharges of the Artillery deftroyed all that For-
tification, and the Enemy having fuffered much by
the Fall thereof, and finding themſelves expofed to
the murdering Balls, retired into the City without
turning their Backs, or ceafing their Menaces. Thus
they left the Shore free, and Cortes, unwilling to
loſe a Moment, immediately ordered the Spaniards
to poffefs themſelves of it, making Ufe of his
Brigantines, and the Canoes of his Confederates, to
land his Men; and the Horſe pafs'd the fame
Ways with three Pieces of Artillery, which he
thought fufficient for that Day's Service.
BEFORE Cortes advanced againſt the Enemy,
who were ſtill pofted behind the Trenches made
acroſs the Streets, he ordered the Treaſurer Julian
de Alderete to ſtay there, and fill up and fecure that
Ditch; and the Brigantines to draw near by the
great
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO. 355
great Canals, to the Place where the Action was,
and do what Damage they could to the Enemy.
The firſt Engagement prefently began, and Julian
de Alderete hearing the Noife of the Battle, and fee-
ing the Advances of the Spaniards, looked upon
the Employment of filling up a Ditch to be very
little honourable, when his Companions were fight-
ing; and inconfiderately advanced to join the reft,
leaving that Charge to another of his Company,
who either did not know how to perform it, or
elfe would not take upon him a Piece of Work
which was thought diſhonourable by him who com-
mitted the Care of it to him; fo that all the Men
under his Conduct followed him to the Engage-
ment; and that Ditch, which, at the Time of the
Attack, had been thought impracticable, remained
intirely abandoned.
THE Mexicans refolutely ftood the firft Charge.
It coft the Spaniards no fmall Trouble, and fome
Blood, to make themſelves Mafters of their Trenches,
and the Hazard was ftill greater, when they had
pafs'd the ruined Buildings, and were obliged to
defend themſelves from the Arrows and Darts of
the Enemy, which came pouring on them from
the Tops of the Houſes and Windows; but in the
very Heat of the Engagement, there appeared a
fudden Slacknefs in the Enemy, which feemed to
be the Effect of fome new Order; for they haſtily
quitted the Ground which they had defended.
THIS Change, as was then fuppofed, and after-
wards appeared, proceeded from Guatimozin's be
ing informed, that the great Ditch was abandoned;
whereupon he ordered his Commanders to preferve
their Troops, and to fall upon the Spaniards in their
Retreat. Cortes fufpected this Motion of the Enemy,
and in regard that he had but barely Time enough
now to return to his Quarters before Night, he be-
A a 2
gan
356
The HISTORY of the
!
Book V.
gan his Retreat, ordering firſt ſome Houſes to be
fet on Fire and deftroyed, in order to prevent
their receiving any Damage from them on the next
Attack.
BUT they had fcarce began to march, before
their Ears were ftunned with the terrible and melan-
choly Sound of the Sacred Trumpet, fo called by
the Mexicans, becauſe it was not permitted to any
but the Priests to found it, and that only when
they denounced War, and animated the People on
the Part of their Gods. The Sound was vehe-
mently loud and ftrong, and the Tune compofed
of difmal and unharmonious Notes, which infpired
thofe Barbarians with a new kind of favage Rage,
fuch as made them defpife Life through a Motive
of Religion. Next followed the intolerable Din of
their hideous Outcries; and when the Army march'd
out of the City, there fell upon the Rear, which
was brought up by the Spaniards, an incredible
Multitude of their moſt refolute Warriors, pick'd
out of the whole Army for this Action, which had
been before contrived. The Fire-Arms and Croſs-
Bows faced about, and made Head, and Cortes,
with the Cavalry, endeavoured to put a Stop to
the Enemy; but being informed of the Difficulty
of the Ditch, which hindered the Retreat, he would
have formed his Battalions, and could not; becauſe
the Confederates, who had received Orders to re-
tire, being the firſt that came to the Ditch, preci-
pitated themſelves into it in the greateſt Confufion
imaginable; fo that his Orders were either not
heard, or not obeyed.
MANY got over to the Caufway in the Brigan-
tines and Canoes, but many more flung themfelves
into the Water, where they found whole Troops of
Mexican Swimmers, who either wounded, or drown'd
them. Cortes was left with fome of his own People
to
Book V.
357
Conquest of MEXICO.
to maintain the Fight, his Horfe was killed under
him with Arrows, and Captain Francifco de Guz-
man alighting to give him his, was taken Prifoner,
without any Poffibility of being refcued. Cortes at
laft got to the Brigantines, and returned to his
Quarters wounded, and little lefs than defeated,
without receiving any Comfort, or thinking him-
ſelf any Ways recompenfed by the great Slaughter
of the Mexicans. Above forty Spaniards were taken
alive, to ſerve as Sacrifices to their Idols; one Can-
non was loſt, above a thouſand Tlaſcalans were
killed, and there was fcarce any one Spaniard that
was not hurt. This was in reality a very terrible
Blow, the Confequences of which Cortes was very
fenfible of, but he would not fuffer his Countenance
to ſpeak the Grief of his Heart, left it fhould dif
cover too much the Greatnefs of the Misfortune:
A hard and inevitable Tafk attending the Com-
manders of Armies, who are obliged in all Adver-
fities to conceal their inward Concern, and to ap-
pear with an outward Air of Tranquillity!
CHA P. XXIII.
The Mexicans celebrate their Victory with the
Sacrifice of the Spanish Prifoners. Guati-
mozin terrifies the Confederates, and occa-
fions many of them to forfake Cortes; but
they return in greater Numbers, and it is
refolved to make Lodgments within the City.
SANDOYAL and act with
ANDOVAL and Alvarado entered the City at
Oppo-
the fame Time, and met with the fame
fition, with very little Difference in the Succefs of
their Attacks; they gained Bridges, filled up
A a 3
Ditches,
358
The HISTORY of the Book V.
1
Ditches, forced their Way into the Streets, deſtroy'd
Houſes, and were fet upon in their Retreat with
the utmoſt Fury of the Enemy. But they did not
meet with the Misfortune of the great Ditch, and
therefore their Lofs was lefs; though in both At-
tacks they loft about twenty Spaniards, which
makes up the Account of thofe who fay, that Cor-
tes loft above fixty of his own People in the Action
of Cuyoacan.
THE Treaſurer, Julian de Alderete, confidering
the Damage which his Breach of Orders had occa-
fioned, was fenfible of his Offence, and haftened
to the General's Prefence with much Sorrow, offer-
ing his Head to atone for his Crime, who gave
him a very fevere Reprimand, without any farther
Puniſhment; not thinking it proper, at that Junc-
ture, to diſcourage the Soldiers by inflicting upon
that Officer the Chaftifement which he merited.
Cortes was obliged at this Time to fufpend the of-
fenfive War, and contented himſelf with blocking
up the Place more clofely, and ftreightning the
Enemy in their Provifions, that he might take
Care of the Wounded, whofe Numbers far exceeded
thoſe who were unhurt.
UPON this Occafion they were fenfible of the
fingular Gift of a private Soldier, named Juan Ca-
talan, who without any other Medicine than a little
Oil, and certain Words and Benedictions, cured
their Wounds in fo fhort a Time, that it did not
look like the Work of Nature. The Vulgar call
this kind of Surgery, curing by Enfalmo, without
any other Reaſon for it, than the having heard fome
Verſes out of the Pfalms among the Bleffings: A
Skill or Profeffion which Morality does not always
allow, and which is fometimes permitted after a
very ſtrict Examination, However, in this Cafe,
it would be no Prefumption to look upon fuch a
marvellous
Book V.
359
Conquest of MEXICO.
marvellous Effect as the Work of Heaven, the
Grace of Healing being one of thoſe Gifts God is
pleaſed fometimes, of his mere Goodneſs, to con-
fer upon Man: Nor is it reaſonable to fuppofe, that
there fhould be any Concurrence of the evil Spirit
in the Means of curing fo many Spaniards, when
that Enemy was endeavouring at the fame Time to
deſtroy them by the Suggeftions of his Oracles.
Herrera fays, that this wonderful Cure was wrought
by a Spanish Woman, called Ifabel Rodriguez; but
we rather chufe to follow Bernal Diaz del Caftillo,
who was then upon the Spot; and notwithſtanding
it is certainly a great Misfortune to an Hiftorian to
meet with theſe Contradictions in Authors, yet he
is not always obliged to difcufs and canvass them;
for the Fact being undeniable, it is of fmall Im-
portance to know who was the Inftrument of doing
it.
BUT let us return to the Mexicans, who cele-
brated their Victory with great Rejoicings. That
Night the Spaniards faw from their Quarters, all
the Temples of the City crowned with innumera-
ble Lights, and Veffels of Perfumes, and in the
principal Temple, dedicated to the God of War,
they heard the Sound of Military Inftruments in
feveral Concerts, which were not altogether difa-
greeable. With theſe pompous Preparations, they
celebrated the Sacrifice of thoſe miferable Spaniards
who were taken alive, the Blood of whofe leaping
Hearts, ftill warm, was ſprinkled upon their hor-
rible Idol, while thoſe wretched Victims, with their
lateſt Breath, were calling upon the God of Truth.
This was fuppofed to be the Occafion of that ex-
traordinary Solemnity, and the Fires gave fo great
a Light, that the Motion of the People was per-
ceived; but fome Soldiers went fo far as to affirm,
that they could diftinguiſh the Voices, and knew
A a 4
the
360
The HISTORY of the
!
Book V.
the particular Men. A difmal Spectacle, which
affected the Imagination ftill more than it did the
Eye! and the Confideration was fo melancholy and
moving, that Cortes himself could not refrain from
hedding Tears; nor thofe who were with him,
forbear following his Example.
THE Advantage they had gained, joined to the
Satisfaction of having appeafed their God of War,
by the Sacrifice of fo many Spaniards, ſo far raiſed
the Pride of the Mexicans, that the very fame
Night, a little before Break of Day, they advanced
by the three Caufways to beat up the Quarters,
with a Deſign to fet Fire to the Brigantines, and to
complete the Deftruction of thofe People, whom
they, with good Reafon, concluded to be either
wounded, or quite fpent with Fatigue; but they
knew not how to conceal their Motion; for the in-
fernal Trumpet, which inſpired them with fo much
Fury, turning their Deſpair into religious Worſhip,
gave Notice of their Approach, and the Spaniards
were fo well prepared to receive them, that they
were repulfed by the Artillery of the Brigantines,
and fome Pieces which were mounted at their
Lodgment, which playing along the Caufways upon
thofe Throngs of People, fufficiently chaftifed them
for their Prefumption.
THE next Day Guatimozin employed ſeveral Ar-
tifices (fuggefted to him by his own Ingenuity)
which the moſt ſkilful in Military Affairs are wont
to value themſelves upon. He gave out, that
Cortes had been killed in his Retreat on the Cauf-
way, thereby giving the People Hopes, that they
fhould fhortly be delivered from their Oppreffors;
he fent the Heads of the facrificed Spaniards to all
the neighbouring Towns, that thofe Tokens of his
Victory might bring thoſe who had fallen off from
him back to their Obedience; and laſtly, he reported,
That
Book V.
361
Conquest of MEXICO.
That their fupreme Deity, the God of War, being
appeaſed by the Heart's Blood of thofe their Ene-
mies, had informed him, in an intelligible Voice,
that the War fhould be at an End in eight Days,
and that all ſhould infallibly perifh who neglected
this Advice. This he invented, concluding, that
he fhould quickly make an End of all the Spaniards;
and he found Means to fend feveral Perfons un-
known into the Enemies Quarters, who fpread thefe
Threatnings of his God among the Indian Nations,
which ferved againſt him.. A notable Contrivance
intirely to deject the Spirits of thoſe People, already
difheartned by the Death of fo many Spaniards,
and the dreadful Slaughter of their own Troops,
the Multitude of the Wounded, and the great
Concern of their Commanders!
THE Oracles of that Idol had ſuch an eſtabliſh’d
Reputation among the moft diftant Nations, that
the Indians were eafily perfuaded of the Infallibility
of thofe Threats; the Number of eight Days, fo
prefcifely limited for the fatal Period of their
Lives, having fuch an Effect upon their Imagina-
tion, that they refolved immediately to quit the
Army; and during the two or three firft Nights,
the greateſt Part of the Confederate Troops aban-
doned their Quarters; and that fenfelefs Appre-
henfion was fo powerful among thofe Nations, that
even the Tlafcalans and Tezeucans disbanded with
the fame Diſorder, either becauſe they really feared
the Oracle as well as the reft, or that they were
led away by the Example of thofe who did. None
remained behind, except the Commanders and
Men of Note, who, perhaps, were as much afraid;
but if they were, they ftill valued their Lives leſs
than their Honour.
THIS unlooked for Accident was a freſh Afflic-
tion to Cortes, as almoft caufing him to deſpair of
the
362
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
the Succeſs of his Enterprize; but the Moment
that he was acquainted with the Occafion of that
fudden Change, he fent their own Commanders
after the Fugitives to ſtop them, temporizing with
their Fear, till fuch Time as the eight Days, affign'd
by the fallacious Oracle, being paft, they might be
fenfible of the Impofture and Falfity of the Pre-
diction, and better difpofed to return to the Army.
This notable Contrivance of Cortes had the defired
Effect; for when the eight Days were expired, the
Indians became capable of Perfuafion, and having
fully recovered from their Fright, returned to
their Quarters with freſh Vigour and Refolution.
DON HERNANDO, Prince of Tezeuco, fent his
Brother to bring back thofe of his Nation; who
returned with them, and fome new Levies that were
coming to join the Army.
THE Tlafcalan Deferters, who were of the meaneft
fort of People, did not dare to proceed on their
Journey, for fear of expofing themſelves to a cer-
tain Puniſhment; but waited to fee the Event of
the Prediction, with a Defign to join fuch of their
Nation, as fhould have the good Fortune to eſcape
after the imaginary Defeat: But at the fame Time
that they were undeceived of their vain Credulity,
they had the good Luck to have an Opportunity
of incorporating themfelves with a Reinforcement
that was coming from Tlafcala, and were the better
received in the Army upon their Return.
THIS Increaſe of Forces, and the great Noiſe
the Diſtreſs of the Capital City made in the neigh-
bouring Countries, prevailed with feveral Nations
who had till then been either Enemies, or Neuters,
to declare in Favour of the Spaniards. One of the
moſt confiderable was the Nation of the Otomies, a
fierce untamed People, who, after the Example of
Beaſts, preſerved their Liberty amongft Woods
and
Book V.
363
Conquest of MEXICO.
and Mountains, and had hitherto kept themſelves
free from the Subjection of the Mexican Empire,
without any other Fortification than the Mifery and
Sterility of their Country, which afforded no Temp-
tation to a Conqueror. Thus Cortes once more
found himſelf at the Head of an Army of upwards
of two hundred thouſand Men, paffing, in a few
Days from a terrible Storm to an agreeable Calm;
attributing, as he always did, this wonderful and
ſudden Change to the immediate Finger of God,
whofe ineffable Providence often permits Adver-
fities, to awaken in the Minds of Men the Senſe of
his Bounties and Benefits.
THE Mexicans were not idle during this Sufpen-
fion of Arms, to which the Spaniards were reduced.
They made frequent Sallies, beating up the Spanish
Quarters both by Night and Day, and were always
repulfed with great Lofs, without either damaging
or terrifying their Enemies. By fome of the laft
Priſoners Cortes was informed of the great Diftrefs
the City was in; that the Soldiers were diffatisfied,
and the People reduced to Extremity for Want of
Bread and Water; that abundance of People died
by drinking the brackish Water of their Pits; and
that the inconfiderable Quantity of Provifions they
got by the Means of thofe Canoes which had efcaped
the Brigantines, were equally divided among the
Nobles, and became an additional Subject of Im-
patience and Diſcontent to the Populace, whofe
Clamours began to give fome Sufpicion of their
Fidelity: Upon which Intelligence, Cortes affembled
his Captains to confult what was moft proper to be
done in the prefent Situation of Affairs.
He reprefented to them the fmall Hopes he had
that Want would oblige the Befieged to furrender,
becauſe of the implacable Hatred they bore the
Spaniards, and of thofe Anfwers of their Idols, with
which
1
364
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
which the Devil fomented it. He gave his own
Opinion, that it was beft to proceed immediately to
Action, for the Reafon he had alledged, and for
fear the Allies fhould again defert him; a People
eafily moved, and who, as they were ferviceable in
the Day of Battle, were endangered by the Idleneſs
of Quarters, being always defirous to engage, and
not capable of conceiving that the Siege they were
then carrying on was a real War, or that, in thofe
Intervals between the Attacks, any Detriment was
done to the Enemy.
THEY were unanimouſly of Opinion, to conti-
nue to make Affaults, without quitting the Siege,
and Cortes, who was fenfible, by the Succefs of the
laft Engagement, how much he fuffered in his Re-
treats, always expoſed to the utmoſt Fury of the
Enemy, refolved to leave ftrong Garrifons in his
Quarters, and in the Place of Arms, and make a
general Attack by the three Caufways at once, in
order to take Pofts within the City, which were to
be maintained at all Hazards; each Body endea-
vouring to advance as far as the great Square cal-
led Tlateleuco, where they were to join and act as
Occafion fhould require. The Enterprize upon
Mexico would have been much forwarder, or per-
haps quite over, if they had taken this Refolution
at the Beginning: But human Prudence and Fore-
fight is fo limited and confined, that it is no fmall
Token of Judgment, to be inftructed by Miſcar-
riages and ill Succefs; and Men are very often
obliged to found their juft Maxims of Conduct
upon the Correction of Errors.
CHAP.
Book V. Conqueft of MEXICO.
365
CHAP.
XXIV.
Cortes carries on his three Attacks at once.
The whole Army joins in the great Square of
Mexico, called Tlateleuco. Guatimozin
retires to the farthest Part of the City.
The Mexicans make feveral Efforts, and
ufe divers Stratagems, to divert the Spa-
niards.
ORTES having made Provifion of Water,
Victuals, and whatever elfe was neceffary for
the Subfiftence of his Troops in a City where all
Things were wanting, the three Captains, at the
Dawning of the appointed Day, marched out of
their reſpective Quarters; Pedro de Alvarado from
Tacuba, Gonzalo de Sandoval from Tapeaquilla, and
the General himſelf, with the Body of Troops
commanded by Chriftoval de Olid, from Cuyoacan;
each of them having his Brigantines and Canoes to
fupport him. They found the three Caufways in a
Pofture of Defence, the Bridges drawn up, and
the Ditches all cleared and guarded with fuch an
enormous Multitude of Men in Arms, as if the
War had been but that Day begun. All thefe Dif-
ficulties they however furmounted with the fame
Induſtry as they had done all the reft; and after
fome not very confiderable Detention, the three
Bodies, much about the fame Time, arrived in the
City: They eafily gained the ruined Streets, by
Reaſon they were but faintly defended by the Enemy,
whofe main Dependance was upon thofe where the
Tops of the Houfes were all manned. All that the
Spaniards attempted the firft Day, was only to
lodge themſelves, each Body fortifying their Quar-
ters
366
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
ters with the Ruins of the Houfes in the beft Man-
ner they could, but depending chiefly upon the Vi-
gilance of their Centinels.
THIS new Method of Proceeding caufed great
Trouble and Confufion among the Mexicans, and
intirely broke all the Meaſures they had taken to
charge the Spaniards in their Retreat. The Ru-
mour of it was foon fpread throughout Mexico, the
Danger greatly magnified, and every one's Thoughts
were employed about providing fome fpeedy Re-
medy againſt the impending Evil; and the Mini-
fters and Nobles inftantly repaired to Guatimozin's
Palace, and, by their preffing Intreaties, prevailed
with him to retire that very Night to a more diftant
Part of the City. Councils were continually held, and
the Opinions were various and different; being either
bold and refolute, or timorous and dejected, ac-
cording as the Underſtanding followed the Dictates
of the Heart. Some voted, that the King, for the
Security of his Royal Perfon, fhould immediately
be conveyed to fome Place lefs expofed; others
were for fortifying that Part of the City where the
Court then was; and others propoſed, that the firſt
Step they took, ſhould be to uſe their utmoft Ef-
forts to diflodge the Enemy from the Poſts they
had poffeffed themfelves of. Guatimozin inclined to
the Advice of thoſe who expreffed the greateſt Re-
folution; fo that, rejecting all Thoughts of aban-
doning Mexico, he declared, that he was fully de-
termined to ſhare his Fate with his People; and that
Moment gave Orders, that Preparation fhould be
made to attack the Enemy in their Quarters at Day-
break, with the whole Remainder of his Forces.
To this Purpoſe the Chiefs, with all poffible Ex-
pedition, affembled all their Troops, which were
divided into three Bodies, with the Deſign of ex-
erting
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
367
erting their laſt Strength, in this definitive Effort,
to the total Deſtruction of the Spaniards. Soon after
the Dawning of the Morning, the Enemy prefented
themſelves within Sight of the three Lodgments,
whither the News of their Motions was already ar-
rived, but the Artillery, which played upon the
Avenues, made fuch a terrible Slaughter in their
Vanguard, that they durft not advance to put their
Orders in Execution, and were foon convinced, that
their Attempt was wholly impracticable: So that,
without venturing near enough to come to handy
Blows, they began to give back, endeavouring to
make what was a real Flight be looked upon only
as an orderly Retreat; but that Motion, as it was
flow in the Front, gave the Spaniards an Opportu-
nity to advance, till they could uſe their Weapons
upon the terrified Indians; infomuch, that without
any other Trouble than what they were at in the
Purſuit, they intirely routed and difperfed the
Enemy, and bettered their Quarters for the enfuing
Night.
-
HOWEVER, the Difficulties which the Spaniards
had to encounter afterwards, were ftill greater, be-
ing obliged, as they advanced, to deftroy Houſes,
to level Works, and to fill up the Ditches which
were cut croſs every Street. All this was neverthe-
leſs ſo happily, and fo expeditiouſly effected, that in
lefs than four Days, the three Leaders came in
Sight of the Tlateleuco, which was the Centre whi-
ther, by different Lines, they had all directed their
Courſe.
PEDRO DE ALVARADO was the firft who arri-
ved at that ſpacious Square, where he found the
Enemy, who ftill had retreated before him, endea-
vouring to draw up in Battle Array, and to make
a Stand; but he gave them not Time to do as they
intended, neither was it indeed an eafy Matter for
thoſe
368
The HISTORY of the
1
}
Book V.
thofe Indians, when they were once in Diſorder, to
return to a Charge; fo that, at the very firſt Onſet
they abandoned the Ground, and, in great Confu-
fion and Precipitation, retired to the Streets on the
oppofite Side. Alvarado, being now at Leiſure to
look about him, obferved that there was at a ſmall
Diſtance, a very large Temple, the Towers and
Afcent whereof were poffeffed by the Enemy; and
thereupon he immediately detached, fome Compa-
nies to drive them from thence, and to poft them-
felves there, in order to fecure his Rear; which Or-
ders, with little or no Difficulty, they foon per-
formed, by reaſon that the Indians who were left to
defend that Poft, were already retiring, after the
Example of the reft. He then, in order to make
his Lodgment, drew up his Troops into one Body,
making a Smoke from the Top of the above-men-
tioned Temple, either as a Signal for the other
Captains, his Friends, to know where he was, or,
by that Means, to gain their Applauſe for his fuc-
cessful Diligence.
Soon after came up, by a different Avenue, the
Detachment properly belonging to Chriftoval de
Olid, but then under the Command of General Cor-
tes himself; and the confufed Throng of Mexicans
which fled before him into that Square, fell in upon
the Battalion which Alvarado had, though with an-
other Defign, juft before drawn up in Order of
Battle; where thofe Wretches, being attacked on
every Side, moſt of them perifhed: And the like
Fate attended thofe who were driven in thither
by Gonzalo de Sandoval, who likewife prefently
after arrived.
THOSE of the Enemy who had retired to the
Streets which led to the other Parts of the City,
perceiving that the whole Force of the Spaniards
was united, ran away with the utmost Precipi-
tation
Book V.
369
Conquest of MEXICO.
$
!
tation to defend the Perfon of their Prince, believing
themſelves now come to the laft Conflict; whereby
the Spanish General had an Opportunity to lodge
himſelf to the beſt Advantage without any Oppofi-
tion or Interruption: Which he did, and pofted
fome Companies in the adjacent Streets to fecure his
Quarters from the Enemies Infults, ordering the
Commanders of the Brigantines and Canoes to ply
continually about the three Caufways, and to give
him Notice of whatever ſhould occur worth Obfer-
vation.
It was at the fame Time abfolutely requifite to
clear the Place from the dead Bodies; and ſeveral
Companies of the Confederate Indians were em-
ployed to caft them into the Canals of thofe Streets
where the Water was deepeft; but thofe Indians
had Spanish Overfeers and Commanders, to prevent
their running away with their wretched Burdens to
make a Banquet of human Flefh, which was the
deteftable Solemnity with which thofe mifguided
People were ever wont to conclude the Celebration
of their Victories: Notwithſtanding which Precau-
tion, it was not poffible wholly to prevent that
Abomination, yet they obſtructed its Excefs, and
diſguiſed that Toleration under the Maſk of Igno-
rance.
THIS Night feveral Parties of miſerable Peaſants,
more than half dead with Famine, came to the
Quarters to furrender themſelves, giving up their
Liberty for Subfiftence; and notwithſtanding it
was generally fufpected that they had been difmiffed
as ufelefs Mouths, yet their deplorable Condition
raiſed ſuch Commiferation in all the Beholders, that
the General ordered them fome Refreſhment, that
they might be enabled to feek their Livelihood
abroad in the Country.
VOL. II.
B b
THE
370
The HISTORY of the Book V.
THE next Morning all the Streets within the
Enemy's District were filled with armed Indians,
but they were pofted there only to cover thofe
who were working upon the Fortifications, which
they were making for their ultimate Retreat; and
Cortes perceiving that they did not attempt any
Hoftilities, nor by any of their ufual Infults offer
to provoke him, fufpended the Attack which he
at first had determined, being inclined once more.
to offer them Peace, as fuppofing that they might
be now difpofed to come to an Accommodation,
or at leaſt, that they would be convinced that he
did not thirſt after their Deftruction, fince he prof-
fered them favouable Conditions at a Juncture when
his whole Power was united in the very Heart of their
City, the greateſt Part whereof was already in his
Pofeffion. The Meffage was carried by three or
four of the principal Prifoners, and Cortes was im-
patiently waiting for an Anſwer, as not doubting
but that the Propofal would be gladly received,
becauſe it was obferved that thofe Multitudes of the
Populace who were wont to be always ready to
advance to defend the Streets, were intirely with-
drawn.
THE Quarter to which Guatimozin with his Mi-
nifters, Nobles, and Soldiery, was retired, was a
very ſpacious Angle of the City, the greateſt Part
whereof was defended by its bordering upon the
Lake; and the reft, which was at no great Diſtance
from the great Square of Tlateleuco, was at every
Avenue fortified by a fort of ftrong Wall, made
of huge Planks and Fafcines, which reached the
Buildings on either Side of thofe refpective Streets,
before each of which was a broad and deep Ditch
full of Water, which they had dug across the
Streets to give a Current to the Waters of the Ca-
nals.
Book V.
371
Conquest of MEXICO.
nals. The enfuing Morning Cortes, followed by the
greateſt Part of the Spaniards, marched out to view
the Ground, which the Enemy had forfaken, and
advanced till he came within Sight of thofe Fortifi-
cations, which he found covered with an incredible.
Multitude of Men in Arms, but who yet feemed
to be difpofed to Peace; for they neither founded
their warlike Inftruments, nor made the accuſtomed
Outcries. The General drew back, and returned
ſeveral times with the Spaniards, without once of-
fering to moleft or provoke them; and it appeared
that the Mexicans had Orders to do the like, be-
cauſe they ſtill pointed their Weapons downwards,
fignifying, by their Silence, and Stilnefs, that the
Treaty which occafioned that fort of Truce was no
way diſagreeable to them.
It was very remarkable upon this Occafion with
what Care they endeavoured to diſguiſe their Di-
ftrefs, and conceal the Neceffities under which they
laboured, and what Oftentation they uſed to make
the Spaniards believe, that notwithftanding they
had no Averfion to the Overtures of Peace, it was
not through Want of Means or Courage to profe-
cute the War, that they were willing to accept
it. They fat in publick upon the Works to eat,
and flung Cakes of Maiz among the common
People, to fhew that they had Plenty of Provifions;
and from time to time feveral of their Chiefs fal-
lied out, and challenged the ftouteft Champion of
the Spaniards to a fingle Combat: But thofe Chal-
lengers did not long continue there, foon retiring
in again, as well pleaſed with the Bravado, as they
could have been with the Victory, had they ob-
tained it. One of them indeed advanced near the
Place where Cortes ftood, and by the Ornaments of
his Nakedneſs, feemed to be a Perfon of fome Di-
ftinction; his Arms were a Sword and Buckler of
Bb 2
one
372
The HISTORY of the Book V.
1
1
one of the Spaniards, whom they had facrificed.
This Indian, with the greateſt Arrogance, perfifted
in his Defiance, infomuch that Cortes, quite out of
Patience with his Noife, and prefumptuous Beha-
viour, ordered his Interpreter to tell him, "That
"if he would bring ten others like himſelf, he
"would give Leave to that Spaniard (pointing to
"his Page, who bore his Shield) to engage them all
σε at once."
The Mexican was not infenfible of
the Contempt; but, without feeming to take any
Notice of it, continued his Defiance with ftill
greater Infolence; and the Page, whofe Name was
Juan Nunez de Mercado, a Youth about fixteen, or
at moſt ſeventeen Years of Age, fuppofing that
this Affair regarded him, fince his Mafter had di-
rectly pointed him out, without being obferved
got out of the Croud, and, making the beft Shift
he could to get over the Ditch, attacked the
Challenger, who ftood ready prepared; but the
Page, receiving the firft Blow upon his Shield, at
the fame Inftant gave his Adverſary fo bold and
vigorous a Thruft, that, without needing a fecond
Wound, he brought him down dead upon the
Spot. This Action was greatly applauded by the
Spaniards, and admired by the Enemy. The Page,
immediately after his Exploit, returned, and threw
down the Sword and Buckler of the vanquished
Mexican at the General's Feet, who was fo highly
pleafed with fuch early Valour, that he embraced
him with great Tenderneſs, and, with his own
Hand, girt on upon him that Sword which with
fuch Bravery he had won, and enhanced the Repu-
tation which he had acquired by his Merit, by ad-
mitting him, though fo young, into the Converfa-
tion of the graveft and moft diftinguiſhed Perfons
in the Army.
DURING
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
373
DURING the three or four Days Sufpenfion of
Arms, Guatimozin held feveral Councils to deli-
berate on the Overtures of Peace which had been
made him, and the Majority voted for the ad-
mitting the Treaty, being fenfible of the miferable
Condition to which they were already reduced;
while others, conforming their Suffrages to the In-
clination of their Sovereign, fhewed themfelves
willing to continue the, War; but the deteftable
idolatrous Prieſts, whofe Opinions were looked up-
on by thofe deluded People as the immediate and
abfolute Commands of their falfe Deities, fupported
the leffer Number, affuring Victory with dark and
myfterious Menaces, and, like Oracles, infpiring
the whole Affembly with the fame diabolical Fury
which poffeffed their own Breafts. Upon this it
was unanimouſly refolved to profecute the War,
and immediately to renew their Hoftilities, while
Guatimozin diſguiſed his Obftinacy under the fpe-
cious Pretext of Obedience to his Gods; but
before he broke up the Council, he gave Or-
ders, that all the Piraguas and Canoes fhould re-
tire to a certain fort of Bay, which the Lake
made in that Part of the City, in order to fecure
a Retreat, in cafe they fhould be driven to Ex-
tremity.
THIS Order was inftantly put in Execution, and
an incredible Number of thofe Veffels made to that
Bay, with no more People in them than were juſt
neceffary to conduct them thither; of which Mo-
tion immediate Notice was fent from the Spaniards,
who were upon the Lake, to Cortes, who, without
Hefitation, prefently concluded, That the Mexicans
were uſing thoſe Precautions with no other View
than to fecure their Prince's Perfon, leaving the
War ftill on Foot, and the Poffeffion of the City
Bb 3
to
!
374
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
1
to be difputed. Hereupon he appointed Gonzalo
de Sandoval for Commander in Chief of all the
Brigantines, with Orders to furround the Bay at a
Diſtance, and to have a watchful Eye upon what-
ever Motion the Enemy fhould happen to make.
Soon after he advanced with his Troops, with a
Deſign of approaching their Fortifications, and to
forward the Peace by the Appearance of War. But
the Enemy had already received Orders to defend
themſelves, and before the advanced Guard of the
Spaniards came up, the Indians declared the Breach
of the Treaty by their hoftile Cries, and with a
ſteady and refolute Countenance prepared for the En-
counter, but it preſently appeared, that their Haugh-
tinefs and Courage began to fail them: For they
had no fooner perceived the terrible Havock which
the firſt Diſcharges of the Cannon made in their
wooden Fortification, which they had foolishly ima-
gined to be impenetrable, but they became fenfi-
ble of their Danger, and, according to Appearan-
ces, they fent Notice thereof to Guatimozin; for
it was not long before they made Signs of de-
manding a Parley, by hanging out white Cloths,
and very frequently repeating the Word Peace.
THEY were given to underſtand by the In-
terpreters, that whoever had any Propofals to offer
from their Prince, might approach; upon which
Affurance three or four Mexicans, who by their
Apparel feemed to be Perfons of fome Note, ap-
peared on the further Side of the Ditch. Thefe
Deputies, having firft made their accuſtomed Hu-
miliations, with an affected Gravity, told Cortes,
"That the Supreme Majefty of Guatimozin, their
"Lord and Sovereign, had named them his Ser-
vants, to treat of an amicable Accommodation,
and had fent them to hear what Propofals the
"Captain
Book V.
375
Conquest of MEXICO.
66
Captain of the Spaniards had to make, in order
"to inform his Mexican Majefty of the Articles
of the Capitulation." Cortes reply'd, "That
"his real and only View was Peace, and that not-
"withſtanding he had it in his Power to give Laws
66
to thoſe who ſo long had refufed to hearken to
"Reaſon, yet he once more offered them Peace,
"and was ready to renew the Treaty which they
"had broken: But that Affairs of this Nature
'
were difficult to be adjuſted by third Perfons,
"wherefore it was requifite that their Prince fhould
"either appear in Perfon, or at leaſt that he ſhould
approach with his Counfellers and Minifters
nearer at hand, in order to be the more conve-
niently confulted, in cafe any Difpute or Diffi-
culty ſhould arife; affuring them, that he was
"fully difpofed to agree to every thing that was
<<
tr
not repugnant or injurious to the fuperior Autho-
"rity of his own Sovereign; with which View he
"promiſed upon his Word of Honour, (which he
" alſo confirmed by an Oath) That he would not
' only, on his Part, cauſe all Hoftilities to ceafe,
"but would likewife take particular Care, that
"his Royal Perfon fhould be in the greateſt Se-
curity, and that he fhould be treated with all
"the Deference and Refpect due to the Mexican
← Emperor."
..
THE Deputies upon this immediately retired,
feeming very well fatisfied with this Anfwer; and
the fame Evening returned to the fame Place, with
a Meffage to Cortes; telling him, "That his
"Mexican Majeſty would not fail of coming thi-
"ther the next Day, with his Minifters and At-
"tendants, to be near at hand to take Cognizance
"of the Articles of the Treaty." His real In-
tent was, with various Pretexts, to continue and
prolong
Bb 4
376
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
prolong the Conferences, till all the Piraguas and
Canoes could be got together in a Readineſs, in or-
der to fecure his Retreat, which had been already
poſitively reſolved on: And accordingly the fame
Meſſengers returned again at the Hour appointed,
pretending," That a certain unforeſeen Accident
"had prevented their Prince from keeping his
"Word, and that he could not poffibly come till
"the Morrow.” After this, Guatimozin again
put off his Affignation, on Pretence of firft ad-
juſting fome Points and Conditions relating to the
Ceremonies and Formalities of that Interview;
and, in a Word, four Days paffed in theſe Ex-
cufes and Delays: Nor was the Artifice difco-
vered till fomewhat later than it fhould have
been; for Cortes firmly believed that they really
defired Peace, founding that Belief upon the Exi-
gence of their prefent Condition, and had actu-
ally made fome Preparations for the Reception of
Guatimozin with State and Magnificence. But
when Information was brought him of what paf-
fed in the Lake, he was inwardly aſhamed of
his having ſuffered himſelf to be fo impofed up-
on, and for having retained fo good an Opinion
of the Sincerity of thofe Barbarians, after fo ma-
ny Delays, and could not forbear breaking out
into Threats againſt them; fhewing that Anger
and Refentment, to conceal his Confufion, and
feeming fenfible of the Difference there is be-
tween being openly infulted, and deceitfully fur-
prized,
1
CHAP.
Book V. Conquest of MEXICO.
377
CHAP. XXV.
The Mexicans attempt to make their Retreat
by the Lake. They engage the Brigan-
tines with their Canoes, in order to faci-
litate Guatimozin's Escape. He is made
Prifoner, and the City Jurrenders.
Τ
HE Day being come, which Cortes had ap-
pointed the Mexican Deputies, as the utmoſt
Period of Time he would allow them to refolve in,
Gonzalo de Sandoval difcovered, at the Dawn of the
Morning, great Multitudes of Mexicans with all
imaginable Diligence embarking on board the Ca-
noes, which were in the Bay. Of this Motion he
fent immediate Notice to Cortes, and getting to-
gether the Brigantines which were diftributed in
divers Creeks, he flowly made towards them 'till
he was near enough to play his Artillery. At the
fame time the Canoes of the Enemy, on board of
which were all the Nobility, and almoſt all the
principal Perfons of the City, began to move, they
having unanimously refolved to make their laft
Efforts againſt the Brigantines, and at all Hazards
to maintain the Fight, till their Prince had made
his Retreat; after which they were to diſperſe and
follow him by feveral Ways. Accordingly they
put this Deſign in Execution, attacking the Bri-
gantines with fuch Vigour, that without being any
wife difmayed at the Havock the Canon made
among them at a Diſtance, they undauntedly ad-
vanced to receive the Strokes of Swords and Lan-
ces. But at the fame time that the Mexicans were
engaging with fuch extraordinary Fury, Gonzalo de
Sandoval obſerved, that from the fartheft Part of
the
378
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
the Bay, fix or feven Piraguas, with the utmoſt
Force of Oars, were making the beft of their Way;
upon which he immediately ordered Captain Gar-
cia de Holguin to chace them with his Brigantine,
and, with as little Damage as poffible, to endeavour
to take them.
He pitched upon Holguin for this Action, as
well for the Confidence he had in his Courage and
Diligence, as for the great Swiftnefs of his Veffel,
which Difference of that Brigantine from the reft,
might perhaps depend upon the Strength and Dex-
terity of his Rowers; or probably was rather owing
to the Goodneſs of her Make, by which fhe was
more obedient to the Oars; a Circumftance of no
fmall Advantage and Importance in thoſe Veffels.
That Captain, without lofing a Moment's Time,
more than was juft neceffary for tacking about, and
for the Rowers to take Breath, ufed fuch extraor-
dinary Diligence, that he foon overtook them;
when turning the Head of his Brigantine, he fell
in upon the foremoſt Piragua, which feemed to
command the reſt. They all at once ceaſed from
rowing, and lay upon their Oars, when they
found themſelves attacked; and ſome of thoſe who
were in the firſt Piragua, called out amain to the
Brigantine not to fire; faying, the Royal Perfon of
his Mexican Majefty was on board that Veffel;
which Words were interpreted by fome Spanish Sol-
diers, who began to have a ſmall Smattering of the
Mexican Language: and the better to make them-
felves underſtood, they flung down their Arms, ac-
companying their Requeft with all the Demonftra-
tions of People who furrendered. Upon this, the
Brigantines boarded the Piragua, into which Garcia
de Holguin, with fome of the Spaniards, imme-
diately leaped, in order to fecure the Prize. Gua-
timozin inftantly advanced, and, diſtinguiſhing the
Captain
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO.
379
Captain by the Reſpect paid him by the reſt, ſaid,
I am your Prifoner, and ready to go whitherfoever
you think fit to conduct me: All I have to defire of
you, is, that fome Regard may be had to the Honour
of the Empress my Confort, and to that of the Women
who accompany her. He then paffed into the Bri-
gantine, and gave his Hand to that Princeſs to help
her up; and was fo much Mafter of himſelf, and
fo far from being in any Confternation, that per-
ceiving Holguin to be in fome Concern about the
other Piraguas, he, with great Sedatenefs of Coun-
tenance, added, You have no Occafion, Sir, to give
yourſelf any Trouble concerning those my Followers,
for they will all come to die at the Feet of their
Prince and upon the firft Signal he made them,
they let their Weapons drop out of their Hands,
and followed the Brigantine as Prifoners, in Obe-
dience to their Sovereign's Command.
GONZALO DE SANDOVAL was all that time hotly
engaged with the Canoes, and, by the Reſiſtance
he met with, he became fenfible of the Quality of
thoſe who defended them, and of the great Courage
and Fidelity of the Mexican Nobility; who, at the
Hazard of their own Lives, had undertaken to fe-
cure their Prince's Liberty. But the Conflict was
of no long Continuance, becauſe they foon had
Notice of his being taken; which they no fooner
underſtood, but their loud military Cries were con-
verted into dolorous, yet lefs noify Lamenta-
tions. They did not only furrender with little or
no Reſiſtance, but feveral of the Nobility requeſted
that they might be taken on board the Brigantines,
to follow the Fortune of their Prince.
GARCIA DE HOLGUIN came up at the fame time,
having firſt diſpatched away a Canoe with the News
to Cortes; and without bearing down too near upon
Sandoval's Brigantine, he gave him, as he paffed
by
380
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
by, a brief Account of what had happened: but
perceiving that he was defirous of taking Charge of
that important Prifoner, he made the beft of his
Way, left Sandoval fhould fend him an Order to that
Purpoſe, and his refuſing to obey, ſhould be looked
upon as a Crime.
THE Spaniards in the City were, in the mean
while, carrying on their Attack againſt the wooden
Fortifications, and the Mexicans who had undertaken
to defend it, in order to make a Diverfion on that
Side, maintain❜d their Ground with notable Courage
and Refolution, till being informed by their Senti-
nels of the Misfortune of the Piraguas which at-
tended Guatimozin, they, more like Men afto-
niſhed than terrified, retired in Confufion and
Diſorder.
THE Occafion of that fudden Change was foon
known for at that very Inftant arrived the Canoe
fent by Holguin; and Cortes, lifting up his Eyes to-
wards Heaven, as acknowledging the Supreme
Author of all his Fortune and Succefs, ordered his
Captains to keep their Ground within View of the
Fortifications, without attempting any thing till
further Inſtructions; fending at the fame time two
Companies of Spaniards to the Landing-place to
guard the Royal Priſoner, and then went himſelf to
receive him not far from the Quarters; which he
did with very great Courtefy and Refpect, Signs and
Geſtures ferving inſtead of Words: to which Gua-
timozin made a Return in the fame Language, en-
deavouring to conceal the Agitations of his Breaft by
a forced Complaifance.
BEING come to the Entrance into the General's
Quarters, they all made a Stop, and Guatimozin,
with the Emprefs, went in firft, affecting to fhew
that he had no Reluctance to his Confinement. They
both immediately took their Seats; but that Prince,
ſeeming
Book V.
Conquest of MEXICO. 381
ſeeming to recollect himſelf, prefently rofe up a-
again, and defired Cortes to fit down. He was, in
thefe Beginnings of his Adverfity, fo much Maſter
of himſelf, that knowing the Interpreters by the
Place where they were pofted, he began the Con-
verfation, faying to the General, Why do you delay,
valiant and renowned Captain, with that Sword you
wear by your Side, to take away my Life? Prifoners
of my Rank are but a Burden to the Conqueror. Dif
patch me then at once, and let me have at least the
Satisfaction of dying by your Hand, fince I could not
obtain the Happineſs of lofing my Life in my Country's
Defence.
He would gladly have proceeded; but here all
his Conftancy failed him, and only his Tears uttered
the reft, putting a Stop to his Words, and forcing
their way thro' his unwilling Eyes. His Royal Con-
fort bore him Company with lefs Referve, and
Cortes found himſelf obliged to do Violence to his
Pity and Compaffion, to avoid following their Ex-
ample but after allowing thoſe Illuftrious Prifoners
ſome Time to vent their Sorrow, he anſwered Gua-
timozin, "That he was not his Priſoner, nor was
"his Greatnefs fallen into fo inglorious a Condition
"as that; but that he was Prifoner to a Monarch
"fo great and powerful, that the whole Univerſe
"had no one Potentate who was his Superior in any
CC
Refpect, and fo good and bountiful withal, that,
"from his Royal Clemency, he might not only
hope to regain his loft Liberty, but even the
"Empire of his Anceſtors, with the glorious Ad-
"dition of his Friendfhip: And that, in the mean
"while, till he could receive his Sovereign's In-
"ftructions, he ſhould be refpected by the Spa-
niards, and treated among them in fuch a Man-
ner, that he ſhould not mifs his own Mexican
Subjects." Cortes would have proceeded to
66
66
comfort
382
The HISTORY of the
Book V.
comfort him with fome Examples of other unfor-
tunate Princes, but Guatimozin was then too hea-
vily oppreffed with Grief to admit of any Confola-
tion; for which Reaſon the General, fearing that
he ſhould rather mortify, than appeafe him, de-
fifted for the prefent; confolatory Words and Per-
fuafions being of little Force or Efficacy to make
any Impreffions upon the Minds of dethroned Po-
tentates; neither is it an eaſy matter to find Refig-
nation in thoſe Hearts which are ignorant of the True
God.
GUATIMOZIN was a Prince about twenty-three,
or twenty-four Years of Age, fo brave, that, at
thoſe Years, he had by his Exploits, and Victories
in the Field, rifen to thofe Honours which quali-
fied the Nobles to afcend the Throne. He was,
as to his Perfon, extremely well proportioned, tall,
yet robuft and ftrong built, and of fo fair a Com-
plexion, that among thofe of his own Nation, he
looked like one of a different Climate. His Face,
which fuited well the reft, diſcovered a haughty
Mind, and was fo habituated to command Refpect,
that even amidſt the inward Agitations of his Soul,
he loft nothing of the Majefty of his Air. The
Emprefs, who was about the fame Age, by the
Gracefulness of her Carriage, and the Vivacity of her
Mien, attracted the Eyes of all; but her Beauty
was rather manly and majeftick, than delicate,
looking well at the firft Sight; which Agreeable-
nefs foon diminiſhed, though the Majeſty of her
Prefence ftill continued. She was Niece to the
Great Motezuma, or, as fome fay, his Daughter;
which when Cortes underſtood, he renewed the
Offers of his beſt Service, profeffing himſelf
obliged to pay to the Perfon of that Princefs, the
Veneration he owed to the Memory of that
Monarch.
IN
Book V.
383
Conquest of MEXICO.
!
In the mean while he thought it neceffary to re÷
turn to his Troops, in order to reduce that Part of
the City, which was ftill in the Enemy's Poffeffion;
fo that breaking off the Converfation for the pre-
fent, he very courteouſly took Leave of his Royal
Prifoners, giving them in Charge to Gonzalo de
Sandoval, with a fufficient Guard; but before his
Departure, Word was brought him, that Guatimo-
zin defired to fpeak with him; his Defign, as it
prefently appeared, being to intercede for the
Mexicans, his late Vaffals. When the General came,
that Prince, in the most preffing Terms, conjured
him, not to injure or misuse them; fince they only
wanted the Knowledge of his being a Prifoner, to in-
duce them to furrender. He had fo much Prefence
of Mind, that he readily gueffed at the Occafion of
the General's Departure, and in the midft of his
Afflictions had the Welfare and Preſervation of his
Subjects at Heart: A Care truly worthy of a prince-
ly Mind! And notwithſtanding Cortes gave him
Afſurances that he would treat them with Lenity,
yet he earnestly defired Permiffion for one of his
own Miniſters to go along with him, to difpofe the
Mexican Troops, and the reft of his Subjects to
ſubmit, and to tell them from him, "That they
"fhould obey the General of the Spaniards, fince it
66
was not reaſonable or prudent in them to in-
"cenſe a Perfon who had their Prince in his
"Power, or refuſe to conform themſelves to the
"Decrees of their Deities."
CORTES found the Army in the fame Poſture in
which he had left it, nor had the leaft Alteration
happened during his Abfence; for the Enemy,
who had retired upon the firft Confternation they
had been put into, by the News of their Emperor's
being taken, had neither Courage enough left to
defend themſelves, nor Judgment to capitulate.
Guati-
384
Book V.
The HISTORY of the
1
Guatimozin's Minifter entered their Quarters, and
immediately upon his acquainting them with the
Orders he brought, they threw down their Arms,
and fubmitted.
By the Mediation of that Miniſter, it was agreed,
that they ſhould march out without Arms or Bag-
gage, which they immediately put in Execution
after ſo precipitate a Manner, that in a few Mo-
ments the Place was evacuated. It raiſed Admi-
ration in the Beholders, to fee the Multitudes of
military Men that ftill remained, after fo many
Defeats, and fuch confiderable Loffes. Great Care
was taken to prevent their being any way mo-
lefted or ill uſed in their Retreat; and fuch De-
ference and Regard was paid to the General's
Orders, that there was not fo much as an oppro-
brious or injurious Word heard among the Con-
federate Indians, who fo mortally hated the
Mexicans.
THE Troops then marched into that remaining
Part of the City, where they found nothing but
miferable Objects, horrible to the Sight, and dread-
ful even to the Thought; fome fick and difabled
Wretches, who could not follow the reft, and o-
thers grievously wounded, all calling upon Death
to relieve them from their Mifery, and exclaiming
againſt the unfeaſonable Clemency of the Conque-
rors: But nothing made fo great an Impreffion up-
on the Spaniards, and filled their Souls with Horror
ſo much, as the Sight of certain Courts, and de-
ferted Houſes, where the Indians had heaped up the
Bodies of all the Men of Note who had been flain in
Battle, in order at Leifure to celebrate their Fu-
neral Obfequies; from whence proceeded fuch an
intolerable Stench, that they were even afraid to
breathe; and, in Effect, the Air was little leſs than
infected therewith, which obliged them to haſten
their
Book V.
385
Conquest of MEXICO.
their Retreat. Cortes having affigned Quarters to
Gonzalo de Sandoval, and Pedro de Alvarado, at
fome Diſtance from that contagious Place, and
given what other Orders he thought requifite, re-
tired with his Prifoners to Cuyoacan, (taking with
him the Body of Troops commanded by Chriftoval
de Olid) till the City could be cleanſed and freed
from thoſe Horrors; whither in a few Days after
he returned, to confider of the propereft Means to
eſtabliſh and maintain his Conqueft, and to take
neceffary Precautions and Meaſures with regard to
the Confequences which might attend this profperous
Expedition.
THE Impriſonment of Guatimozin, and the in-
tire Reduction of Mexico, happened on the thir-
teenth of August in the Year 1521, being the Day
of St. Hypolito; in Memory whereof, the City, to
this Day, celebrates the Feſtival of that great
Martyr, under the Title of Patron of Mexico. The
Siege continued ninety-three Days; and in the va-
rious Events of profperous and adverſe Fortune, the
Judgment, intrepidity, and Conftancy of Cortes,
are equally to be admired with the indefatigable
Perfeverance and Valour of the Spaniards, and
the Unanimity and Obedience of the Confe-
derate Nations; allowing to the Mexicans the
Honour of having defended their Prince and
Country with the utmoſt Efforts of Bravery and
Patience.
AFTER the taking of Guatimozin, and the Con-
queft of the Capital City of that vaft Empire, the
Tributary Princes firft came in to acknowledge,
and to do Homage to the Conqueror; and their
Example was foon followed by the Caziques of the
circumjacent Diſtricts, fome being induced to
VOL. II.
C c
it
}
386
it by the great Reputation of the Spaniards, and
others compelled by Force of Arms; and in a
fhort time was erected that noble Monarchy,
which merits the Name of New-Spain, the great
Emperor Charles the Fifth owing to Hernan Cortes
no less than a new Crown, well worthy of his
Imperial Temples. A wonderful Conqueft, and
The HISTORY, &c. Book V.
a moft illuftrious Conqueror, among thoſe which
many Ages rarely produce, and of which there
are but few Examples in Hiſtory!
FINI S
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Solis y Rivadeneyra
The history of the
conquest of Mexico by
the Spaniards.