Purchas his pilgrimes. part 3 In fiue bookes. The first, contayning the voyages and peregrinations made by ancient kings, patriarkes, apostles, philosophers, and others, to and thorow the remoter parts of the knowne world: enquiries also of languages and religions, especially of the moderne diuersified professions of Christianitie. The second, a description of all the circum-nauigations of the globe. The third, nauigations and voyages of English-men, alongst the coasts of Africa ... The fourth, English voyages beyond the East Indies, to the ilands of Iapan, China, Cauchinchina, the Philippinæ with others ... The fifth, nauigations, voyages, traffiques, discoueries, of the English nation in the easterne parts of the world ... The first part.

[ 10]

VOYAGES, AND TRA∣VELS TO AND IN THE NEW WORLD, CALLED [ 20] AMERICA: RELATIONS OF THEIR PAGAN ANTIQVITIES AND OF THE REGIONS AND PLANTATIONS IN THE NORTH AND SOVTH parts thereof, and of the Seas and Ilands adiacent. [ 30] THE FIFTH BOOKE. (Book 5)

CHAP. I. A Description of the West Indies, by ANTONIO De HER∣RERA * 1.1 his Maiesties Chiefe Chronicler of the Indies, and his Chronicler of Castile.

[ 40]

To the Licentiate PAVL of Laguna, President of the Royall and Supreme Councell of the Indies.

THe Licentiate Iohn of Obando, Predecessor of your Lordship (in whose time the Office of chiefe Chronicler of the Indies was institu∣ted, for writing with greater authoritie, foundation, and truth, the Acts of the Castilians in the New World, and to see and examine that which the other Chroniclers should write (for I finde that [ 50] almost to all that is written no credit could be giuen, for ouer-much licence, wherewith vntill then it was done) hee vsed great diligence in gathering the most certaine Relations that were found as well in the Indies, as in Spaine, of that which happened in the Discoueries of those Regions, the foundations of those Townes and Customes of the people. And many yeers being past after his death, without making any beginning of this History, your Lordship being prouided for Presi∣dent of the Royall and Supreme Councell of the Indies, knowing how much it behoued, that deeds so worthy [ 60]

of memorie should no longer be buried, and that they should be written by a Royall Chronicler (seeing so much fr•••• is gotten of Historie, that it exceedeth so much the Picture, as the soule, the bodie, against the opinion of a moderne Writer.) Prouiding all the meanes necessarie with liberalitie and diligence, haue beene the meere and onely Instrument;* 2.1 following the opinion of S. Augustine, that this Historie, and the Description that followeth hath come to the present estate. And because it hath not beene of least impor∣tance to honour the Author, animating him to goe forward with so great a labour, conforming your selfe with the vniuersall opinion of the much that is due to the watchings, and labours of the Writers; pla∣cing this Office of Chiefe Chronicler in that point and reputation that so noble an Exercise deserueth, (as the most famous men of the World haue iudged it, and it is esteemed and talked of among all Nations be they neuer so barbarous) your Lordship shall be praysed eternally, and thanked of all that are interessed in [ 10] it; by which is procured the making mention of their Fathers, and Predecessors with their Names and Countrey, all that hath beene possible, against the barbarous and most vniust opinion of Iohn Baptista Ramusio, in his Proeme in the third Volume of the Nauigations, where hee saith to bee a vaine thing, and ridiculous, that the Spanish Authors should take paines in writing the names and Countrey of those which serued in the matters of the Indies. Wherein he sheweth the venime of the enuie conceiued of the glorious deeds of these Catholike Kings, and of the Castillian Nation, seeing the Chronicles doe serue to honour the good, and to reproch the euill, for an example of those to come; which could not be obtayned with the opinion of this Ramusius, whom the saying of Cato against the Grecians doth fit. But the o∣pinion of your Lordship hath beene according to your prudence and valour, of the which as it is iust, there will be a perpetuall memorie, and for that which this Nation is indebted vnto you for the same, you shall bee reknowledged of it eternally. God keepe your Lordship, from Vallyadolyeede the fifteenth of [ 20] October 1601.

* 2.2THe compasse of the Earth is 360. degrees, which being reduced to leagues of Castile are 6300. and by the compasse of the Earth is vnderstood the Sea together with it, which two Ele∣ments make the Globe; whose vpper face in part is Earth, and in part is Sea: The Ancients di∣uided the Earth in three parts, and gaue to euery one his name. The first they called Europe, more celebrated then any of the other. The second Asia, which is greater then the rest, and contayneth the great Kingdome of China. The third. Africa And men being in a supposition that the World contayned no more then was rehearsed, not contenting themselues with it, entred in the Art of Nauigating, and in the inuention of ships of high building, fitting them in such [ 30] order that they might abide the force of the waues of the Sea, & in this Art l 2.3 the Spaniards haue surpassed all the Nations of the World. For whiles there reigned Ferdinand in Castile and in Lyon, the famous Kings Catholike Ferdinando the Fift, and Isabella a most wise, prudent, and most puissant Queene; and Don Iohn the Second, called the Pellican, raigned in Portugall, (hee that euer will be worthy of memory) Don Christopher Colo••, first Admirall of the Indies, hauing liued many yeeres married in Spaine; with the counsell of Martin of Bohemia, a Portugall borne in the Iland of Fayall, a famous Astrologian; and especially a Iudiciarie, and of others with whom he communicated it, gaue a beginning to the Discouery of that which at this day is counted the fourth part of the World, and the greatest of them all, and taking his course toward the Sunne setting, going from Pallos a Village of the Earle of Miranda, in the Coast of Anda∣luzia, [ 40] he sayled so much by the Ocean, that hee found this great Land, which the Equinoctiall Line cutteth in the middest,* 2.4 and it goeth so farre toward the South, that it reacheth to fiftie two degrees and an halfe, and goeth so high to the North, that it hides it selfe vnder the Pole Articke, without m 2.5 knowing any end.

The greatnesse of this fourth part hath set the people in great admiration, whose description shall here be handled, vnder the name of Ilands, and firme Land of the Ocean Sea, because they are compassed with this Sea, and placed to the West, and are commonly called, the West Indies, and the New World, and comprehended within the limits of the Kings of Castile and of Lyon. Which is an Hemisphere, and halfe of the World, of 180. degrees, beginning to reckon from a Meridian Circle, which passeth by thirtie nine, or by fortie degrees of longitude, Occidentall [ 50] from the Meridian of Toledo, through the mouth of the Riuer Marany••••, and to the Orientall, through the Citie of Mallaca, in sort, that at twentie leagues sayling for a degree, these bounds haue from the one part to the other 3900. Castillan leagues, euery one of 3000. paces, of fiue foot of a Castillan yard, which men say are sixtie Italian miles, from the Orient to the Occident, which the Sea-men doe call East and West. And this account of twentie leagues to a degree, is according to Ptolomie, and to the opinion of many curious men. It hath seemed to others that the miles of euery degree are seuentie, and that they make no more then seuenteene leagues and an halfe of Castile, which is held for the truest account.

The degrees of longitude, which are those that are reckoned by the n 2.6 Equinoctiall, which [ 60] goeth from East to West, through the middest of the Orbe, and Globe of the Earth, haue not beene able to bee taken well, because there is no fixed signe in the Heauen. Degrees of altitude are those which are taken, and reckoned from the Pole which fall out certayne, because it is a

fixed point, which is the marke that is taken, by the which it shall be shewed in this description.

There is discouered, and nauigated from the North to the South,* 2.7 from 60. degrees of Septentri∣onal altitude, vnto fiftie three Austral, which are 1977. leagues of ground, which hath in breadth, at the broadest 1300. and thence downewards vnto eighteene, which is the narowest by Nom∣bre de Dios, or Portobelo, vnto Panama, whereby Nature diuided this Land, leauing almost the halfe of it to the North, and the rest to the South, which are the two parts of these bounds. The third, is the Ilands and firme land, that lye to the East of Mallaca, where through passeth the Line of the partition, betweene the two Crownes of Castile and Portugall, the which although they are part of the East India, they are named of the West in respect of Castile, as shall bee seene in the generall Map that followeth.

[ 10] And because the Discouerie of all these Regions, from whence so great Riches haue beene brought to these Kingdomes, is due vnto the Load-stone,* 2.8 I will set downe heere a wonderfull ef∣fect of his, discouered by Don Antonie Ossorio, a Gentleman of Valladolid, and it is, that it doth communicate to the Iron, more attractiue vertue then naturally it hath of it selfe, seeing that applying an Iron to the part of the stone that hath most force, much more weight will bee ray∣sed with the Iron, then with the stone it selfe▪ so it bee ioyned with it, in sort that to a Load∣stone, that weigheth no more then two pound one quarter, and hath no naturall vertue for to lift more then sixe ounces weight, it made the Iron in my presence to lift fourteene pound of I∣ron, and this vertue hath not the Load-stone of Spaine, a thing that causeth the Philosophers to [ 20] muse much vpon.

The Author had here inserted a Table or Generall Map of America; the defect of which wee haue supplyed with this farre more complete of Hondius.

[illustration] map of North and South America

HONDIVS his Map of AMERICA.

AMERICAE DESCRIP.

* 2.9THe Ocean that is toward the East, is called the North Sea, and that which falleth to the West, Mar del Sur, or the South Sea: this washeth Noua Hispania and Peru: that washeth those Regions which are situated on the South coast of Brasile toward the Magellan Streight: and especially the North coast from Brasile toward Castile, and other Septentrional parts. These two vast Seas are diuided into other lesser Seas and Gulfes, and are sayled by foure principall Na∣uigations.* 2.10 The first and most ancient, from Castile to Terra firme, and to Noua Hispania. The second, from Castile to the Riuer of Plate, and the Streight of Magellan. The third, from the coast of Noua Hispania to Guatimala, and Panama, to Peru, Chile, and the Streight. And the last, and newest, from Noua Hispania to the Ilands of the West, and trafficke of China, as it is seene in [ 10] the Table preceding.

The first Nauigation, because it is most vsed, called Carrera de las Indias, The course of the In∣dies, is diuided in two, one to the port of Saint Iohn of Vlua in Noua Hispania, whitherto from Siuil is sayled about one thousand and seuen hundred leagues in two moneths and an halfe: and another to Nombre de Dios, and now to Porte bello, which is in the Kingdome which they call Terra firme, of one thousand and foure hundred leagues, in two moneths large, and both goe by one course, till they come to the Ilands of the North Sea, from Saint Lucar of Barrameda, whence yee cannot take Sea without a Pilot skilfull in the Channell,* 2.11 a fit winde and spring Tydes, and light of the day, or lights, for to see the markes of the Barre.

The Times for to begin these Nauigations, are diuers. For Noua Hispania, the winter being [ 20] past, from the beginning of April vnto the end of May, and not after, that they may not come to the Ilands of the North Sea after August, when the North windes begin to reigne, and the Vra∣canes doe begin, which are stormes and great gusts arising of contrarie windes. And to Terra firme, the Nauigation is before the entring of the Winter, in all August and September, that they may come to Porte bello from Nouember forward, when by the beginning of the North windes that Coast is alreadie least diseased, and more healthfull.

* 2.12From Saint Lucar they goe to the Canaries, whither there is about two hundred and fiftie leagues of Nauigation, of eight or ten dayes, through the Gulfe de las Yeguas; which in winter is very dangerous for stormes: and in the Port of Canarie they cast anker when they thinke it good, or else in the Port of Gomera, which is the best of those Ilands. From the Canaries they [ 30] saile to Desseada, which stands in 15. degrees and little more; and to Dominica, whither they make seuen hundred leagues, through the great Ocean, and they stay fiue and twentie dayes, whereby they cannot returne, because the Brises are ordinarie, and contrarie at their returne. The Brises are windes which comprehend all the Easterne windes with all their quarters, and are so ordinarie and firme,* 2.13 because the swift motion of the First Moouer, doth carry after him the Element of the Aire, as the other superior Orbes: and so the Aire followeth alwaies the motion of the Day, going from East to West, neuer varying, and the effectuall motion of the Aire car∣rieth after him also the vapours and exhalations that doe arise from the Sea, and therefore the Brise winde which runneth from the East, is so continuall in those parts. This voyage from the Canaries to Dominica, Peter Arios of Auila, which was called Gentill and the Iuster, made the [ 40] first, the yeere of 1514. when hee went with an Armie for Gouernour and Captaine generall of the Kingdome of Golden Castile, now called Terra firme, since which the Nauigation hath beene ordered, that vntill then went out of order.

Because it is now ordered that fresh water and wood be not taken in the Iland of Desseada, and in Dominica, the Fleet of Noua Espanna goe hence to Occoa, a Port of the Iland Hispan-yola, to take refreshing, and they stay long because the stormes from Cuba doe ouertake it. And they that goe for Noua Espanna,* 2.14 doe water in the Iland of Guadalupe, and there they diuide the cour∣ses. The fleet of Noua Espanna goeth in demand of the Cape of Saint Antonie, which is in the furthest part and most Occidentall of the Iland of Cuba, to which place they saile about fiue hun∣dred leagues in twentie dayes ordinarily, in sight of Saint Iohn of Porto Rico and of Espannola, two [ 50] leagues off the Port of Saint Domingo, running along the coast by the Point of Nizao, and be∣tweene the Ilands of Cuba and Iamayca, they goe with great heede of the shoales, which are cal∣led the Iardines, neere to the middest of the coast of Cuba where many ships haue beene lost, pas∣sing afterward in sight of the Iland of Pinos and Cape Correntes twelue leagues short of the Cape of Saint Antonie. From whence there are two courses to the Port of Venacruz, both of ten or twelue dayes; one which they call Within Land, of two hundred and fiftie leagues, for the Sum∣mer time from May to September, when there bee no North windes which are crosse windes on the coast of Yucatan, whereby they passe; and another which they call Without, for the time of Winter, of about two hundred and eightie leagues somewhat higher in altitude: and the best Na∣uigation,* 2.15 for to goe to the Port of Saint Iohn de Vlua, is to leane to the coast of Florida, and the Playnes of Almeria, that no contrarie wind stay him from seasonable attayning the Port of Saint [ 60] Iohn de Vlua.

The fleets that went from Dominica, and now goe from Guadalupe to Terra firme (whither is about foure hundred leagues voyage of fifteene dayes) they goe in demand of Cartagena, farre off

the coast of Terra firme, where the Brises are almost perpetuall, and contrarie to the returne, and the Southerne windes continuall in Summer, and the Northerne in Winter, which are crosse windes. They doe reknowledge by the way the Cape de Vella, between Santa Martha and a 2.16 Ve∣nezuela, and the Cape b 2.17 del Aguja neere Cartagena, where they vnlade the merchandise that are to goe to New Kingdome; and those which are to passe to Peru, are carried to Porte bello, whi∣therto from Cartagena are ninetie leagues, foure or sixe dayes sayling, reknowledging the Point of Captina, and from the Canaries to Cartagena is fiue and thirtie dayes sayling.

Those that goe to Hunduras and Guatemala, goe in companie with them of Noua Espanna,* 2.18 vnto Cape Tiburon, the vtmost Westerne part of Espannola, from whence running along by [ 10] the Iland of Iamayca on the North side, vnto the Point of the c 2.19 Negrillo, the vttermost of it, they put to Sea in demand of the Cape of the Camaron, the beginning of the Gulfe and Prouince of Hunduras, from whence they goe to anker to Truxillo fifteene leagues to the West from the Cape, where the merchandize are vnladen that are to remaine there, and the rest doe passe to the Port of Cauallos, and to Golfo Dulce, along the coast by the Gulfe of Hunduras, to transport them to Guatemala.

THe returne from the Indies to Spaine,* 2.20 cannot be made by the course which they take in go∣ing thither, and therefore they must come to a greater height, going out of the Tropicks to seeke fresh windes which doe blow from towards the North; all the Fleetes doe meete in the [ 20] Port of Hauana, about the moneth of Iune, to come to Spaine before Winter; for the East winde is against them, and is trauerse in the Channell, and the South also is trauerse in the Coast from the Cape Saint Vincent to Saint Lucar. The fleet of Terra firme, departeth from May for∣ward from Porte bello, when the North windes doe alreadie cease; and returneth to Cartagena to take the freight of Siluer and Gold from the new Kingdom of Granada: and also for to auoid the Coast of Veragua, and the streame of Nicaragua, whence they can hardly get out if they ingulfe themselues by reason of the Brises, and contrarie and dangerous Currents that are in the way. From Cartagena they goe for Cape Saint Antonie, the furthest West of Cuba about two hun∣dred leagues, voyage of ten dayes, with care of the shoales that are in the way of Serrana and Serranilla, and d 2.21 Quitasueno, and from the Cape of Saint Antonie to the Auana, are neere fiftie [ 30] leagues: and the ships that come from Hunduras, doe come also to reknowledge the Cape of Saint Antonie.

The fleetes of Noua Espanna doe depart in the beginning of May, while the North windes doe last, which doe serue for the returne to the Auana, ascending a little in altitude vnto the Sound, which they call las Tortugas, vnto which place they saile about three hundred leagues in fifteene dayes.

The ships of Santa Martha and Venezuela, to come to Castile, came out betweene Cuba and Hispaniola, to reknowledge the Cape of Saint Nicholas in the Western part of it, from whence through the middest of the Iles of the Lucayos, they goe take the course of the fleets, and when they come in sight of the Cape of Saint Antonie, they goe to the Auana for feare of Pirates.

[ 40] From the Auana to Castile, hauing past the Channell of Bahama (which the Pilot Antonie of Alaminos sayled first of all, the yeere 1519.) they doe saile through the Gulfe which is called of the North, or of the Sagarzo, about nine hundred or a thousand leagues or more (a sayling of fiue and twentie or thirtie dayes with ordinarie windes) by two wayes, one for Summer, in a greater height, till they come to thirtie eight or thirtie nine degrees, in the which stand the Ilands of Azores; and another for Winter, by a lesser height, because of the stormes and showres which doe come alwayes neere vnto it, whereby they goe vnto thirtie nine degrees no more, where∣in standeth the Iland of Santa Maria, one of the Iles of Azores, and they ascend one degree more for to touch in the Tercera, where the fleets doe alwayes come to take refreshing, without per∣mitting any one to goe ashoare. And from the Ilands of Azores vnto Saint Lucar of Barrameda, [ 50] the Mariners make three hundred leagues of Nauigation in fifteene dayes, others in thirtie for the many Brises that doe reigne in this Gulfe of the Azores, whereby they saile till they come vpon the Coast of Portugal, and the doubling of the Cape Saint Vincent; and after in sight of the Coast vnto the Port of Saint Lucar.

The Nauigation from Castile to the Riuer of Plata (whitherto there is one thousand and sixe hundred leagues,* 2.22 and to the Streight of Magelanes neere two thousand) hath beene much lon∣ger in the time then in the distance of the way, because being necessarie to come to those Prouin∣ces in their Summer, which is from September forward, they cannot depart from Castile at such time as not to passe the Equinoctiall by Iune or August, when in it the Calmes are many and ve∣ry great, and therefore they stay fiue moneths in the Voyage, which might bee made in two or three, if from Siuil they did depart by August or before: and touching in the Canaries they goe North and South, to eight or nine degrees on the other side of the Equinoctiall, from whence [ 60] some doe saile East and West, to reknowledge the Cape of Saint Augustine in Brasile, and after∣ward in sight of the Land vnto the Riuer of Plate and the Streight. Others from the eight de∣grees haue gone straight through the South Sea to the Streight, although few haue come to passe

it, before the Summer bee ended, which is very short and full of stormes, because it stands in so great a height, whereby this Nauigation is very difficult.

* 2.23The Nauigation of the South Sea hath alwayes beene along the Coast, and because the South windes are very continuall, and the Current of the Streight ordinarie to the North; The Nauigation of Panama to the Citie of The Kings,* 2.24 is wont to continue two moneths, and the returne lesse then thirtie dayes, and the same from the Kings to Chile, from whence to Pana∣ma are sayled nine hundred leagues in lesse then two moneths, eight being needfull for the go∣ing, which is alreadie shorter then it was: for putting to the Sea they finde better windes to performe it.

* 2.25The Nauigation to the Westerne Ilands, Malucas and Philippinas, from Castile to the Streight of Magellane passeth foure thousand leagues, and so for being so long as for the difficul∣tie [ 10] of passing the Streight of Magellan••s, it is held for difficult to vse it, and from Noua E∣spanna through the Westerne Gulfe, which is in the South Sea. This Nauigation was made from the Port of the Natiuitie in the Coast of Noua Espanna; at this time it is made from the Port of Acapulco, from whence to the Malucas and Philippinas, they doe make a voyage of one thousand sixe hundred, or a thousand and seuen hundred leagues, which is sayled in two moneths, or two and a halfe, departing in Nouember which is the time most free from calmes. And the returne to Noua Espanna is longer, because not being able to returne the way they went, it is necessarie to ascend to 39. degrees, and depart in May and Iune, when the Brises bee lesse, and they stay foure moneths in sayling two thousand leagues that may bee in the iourney. [ 20]

* 2.26NAture hauing diuided these western Indies in two parts, by the Isthmos or narrownesse from Porte bello to Panama, placed the one to the North, and the other to the South; where∣fore wee will call them the Indies of the North, and of the South. The Kings of Castile and Lion, with the aduice of the supreme Councell of the Indies, haue ordayned, that in each place there bee a Vice-roy, Courts, and Gouernments, and Bishopricks, as hereafter shall bee shewed. And first shall be entreated of the Northerne Indies, which commonly they call Noua Hispania, because the first discouerers (which were Iohn Grijalua and his Companions) hauing not seene in the Ilands houses of stone, nor other things as in Spaine, which here they found with people [ 30] apparelled, and more ciuill; They named it New Spaine: which exceedeth the other part of the Indies in pastures, and therefore they haue innumerable Cattle of all sorts: and it exceedeth also in husbandrie and fruits: it hath no wine, because generally the grapes doe not ripen with perfection, the raines of Iuly and August not suffering them to ripen. The * 2.27 vpper Ilands haue also great Pastures, and a pleasant prospect: for all the yeere they are greene and flourishing, with great pleasantnesse, and great Arcabucos, which are very thick Groues and Inclosures, and in the Playnes are great Lakes and Quagmires. Neither Bread nor Wine grow in them; for the great ranknesse of the ground doth not suffer it to ripen nor care: the Riuers for the most part haue gold. Florida, Nicaragua, and Guatimala are almost in this manner, as of all more particular∣ly wee will rehearse in their place, and in the Table following shall the bounds of these Northern Indies bee seene. [ 40]

THe Court of the Iland Hispaniola, which in time and place is the first, being neerest vnto Ca∣stile, it hath of bounds East and West fiue hundred and fiftie leagues, and North and South more then three hundred, wherein are included the Ilands and Gouernments of Hispaniola, Cu∣ba,* 2.28 Saint Iohn, Iamayca, Margarita, and the fishing of the Pearle: the Prouince and Go∣uernment of Venezuella, and for neernesse the Prouinces of new Andaluzia, Guayana, and Florida, with all the Ilands of the North Sea, which doe passe a hundred which are named, and are aboue sixe hundred great and small: and those which doe leane toward the Coast of Terra firme, the Mariners doe call of the Leeward, and the other to the Weatherward. The temperature of [ 50] them all is commonly moist and exceeding hot, and although they be plentifull in Pastures and Trees, they are not so of the Seedes of Castile, nor of Wheat, Barly, Vines, nor Oliues: but there is great store of great Cattell and small, as Kine, Mares, Swine, and Sheepe, and therefore their principall trafficke is Hides and Sugar, for there is great store; and although in the most of them there is gold; it is not sought for.

* 2.29THe Countrie-men called the Iland of Hispaniola, Ayti and Quisqueya, which signifieth Roughnesse, and a great Countrie. The figure of it is like a Chesnut leafe: it stands in nine∣teene degrees and a halfe of eleuation of the Pole, it compasseth about foure hundred leagues and somewhat more, and hath in length East and West an hundreth and fiftie, and North and South from thirtie to sixtie where it is broadest, it is very plentifull of Sugar, and Cattell, and [ 60] of Yuca, the roote whereof maketh the Cazabi, the bread of the Countrimen. They haue no Mil∣let nor Wheat,* 2.30 although they begin to reape some in the inward parts and coldest. It is rich of Copper mynes and other metals, and some veine of Gold though but little is gotten, for want of workemen: it hath ten Spanish Townes.

[illustration] map Cuba

HONDIVS his Map of Hispaniola, Cuba, &c.

CUBA INSUL••

[illustration] map of Port of Havana

HAVANA PORTUS

[illustration] map of Jamaica

IAMAICA

[illustration] map of St. John island

I. S. IOANNIS

[illustration] map of Margaret island

I. MARGARETAE

[illustration] map of Hispaniola

CUBAE INSULAE PARS

HISPA∣NIOLA

[ 40] The Citie of Saint Dominicke or Domingo neere the Coast of the South,* 2.31 on the Riuer of Oza∣ma, stands in the said 19. degrees and a halfe, and 60. of Occidentall longitude from the Meridian of Toledo, from whence vnto it there may bee by direct line one thousand two hundred fortie seuen leagues, it hath aboue sixe hundred housholds. There is resident in it the Audience or Coun∣cell, the Officers of the Goods and Royall Treasure; a Mint house, and the Cathedrall Church. And the Archbishoprick hath for Suffraganes the Bishopricks of the Conception de la Vega (which is vnited with that of Saint Dominicke) those of Saint Iohn, Cuba, Venezuela, and the Abbotship of Iamayca; and in the Citie are Monasteries of Dominicans, Franciscans, Mercenaries, and other two of Nunnes, a Grammar Schoole, with foure thousand * 2.32 Pesos of Rent, and an Hospitall with twentie thousand. The Hauen which is great, and capable of many ships, is in the mouth of the [ 50] Riuer Ozama, and hath the Citie on the West, which the Deputie Don Bartholomew Collon did build the yeere 1494. on the East side, better and wholsomer in situation, and the chiefe Knight of Alcantara, Nicholas of Ouando being Gouernour of Hispaniola, An. 1502. remoued it where now it is, from the other side the Riuer to the East, vpon occasion that the Citie had fallen by a great Earthquake. The Village of Salualyon of Yguey,* 2.33 eight and twentie leagues from Saint Do∣minicke to the East, of the Archbishoprick; the Captaine, Iohn of Esquiuel, did people it. The Village of the Zeybo, twentie leagues from Saint Dominicke to the East, toward the Iland of Saona: the Captaine also planted it in the time of Nicholas of Ouando. The Village of Cotuy,* 2.34 sixteene leagues from Saint Dominicke to the North, and very close in his circuit, Roderick Mexia of Trillo, founded it. The Village of Azua in Compostella, in the coast of the South,* 2.35 foure and [ 60] twentie leagues from Saint Dominicke to the West, in his borders are many sugar Mills; it was peopled by the President Iames Vellazques, it was called Compostella by a Gallizian Knight,* 2.36 which held an Heritage in that situation, and Azua is the name of the place which the Indians had there. The first that carried sugar Canes to the Indies, and began to make triall of them there, was one Atiença, and the Bachellor Velosa. The Village of Yaguana, which they call

Santa Marie of the Port, seated on the Westerne coast of the Iland, is fiftie or sixtie leagues from Saint Dominicke, as betweene the North and the West; the chiefe Knight Nicholas of Ouando did people it.

* 2.37The Citie of the Conception of the Valley, is in the Kingdome of Guarin••ex, which the first Ad∣mirall Don Christopher Collon built, neere to the which he obtayned the victorie in the great bat∣taile of the Valley Royall: it is twentie leagues from Saint Dominicke to the North-east, where is a Cathedrall Church (although there is no Prelate, for it is vnited to the Church of Saint Domi∣nicke) it hath one Monasterie of religious Franciscans,* 2.38 where is the wood of the Crosse which the Indians could not burne, cut, nor ouerthrow, which hath done many miracles. [ 10]

Saint Iago de los Caualleros is ten leagues from the Citie de la Vega directly to the North-east; it was first a Fortresse which the first Admirall made in the Countries of the Cacique Guanaco••el, for the securitie of the Valley, and the Fort Magdalene which was foure leagues off.

The chiefe Knight of Alcantara, Nicholas of Ouando, An. 1502. did people the Port of Plate in the North coasts,* 2.39 fiue and thirtie or about fortie leagues from Saint Dominicke, because the ships of Castile might more commodiously trafficke, and because it was no more then ten leagues from the great Valley, where in other ten leagues stood the Village of Saint Iames, and the Conception within sixteen, and within twelue the Mynes of Cibao, and it was of the Bishoprick of the Val∣ley,* 2.40 the Port of Plate stands in little more then twentie degrees. The Village of Monte-Christe, is in the coast of the North fourteene leagues, to the West of Port of Plate, and fortie from Saint Dominicke, is of the Bishoprick of the Valley; it hath a good Hauen, and certaine salt Pits in it; [ 20] Nicholas of Ouando did build it.

* 2.41There was in old times in this Iland the Citie of Isabella, now disinhabited, which the first Admirall built the yeere 1493. the Village of Verapaz in Xaragua,* 2.42 which Iames Velazques built in the yeere 1503. and the same yeere peopled also Saluatierra of the Zabana, which signifieth Playnes and Pastures, in the Indian language: and that Prouince is plaine and faire. Hee also peopled (betweene the two mightie Riuers Neyba and Yaqui) the Village of Saint Iohn of the Maguana,* 2.43 in the middest of the Iland, where the Church continueth yet; and heere reigned Coanabo, who tooke Alfonso de Oieda. Hee also planted Villanueua de Yaquime vpon the Hauen, where Oieda cast himselfe to swim, being prisoner in a ship, with two paire of fetters; and it stands in the South coast, which the Admirall did call the Coast and Hauen of Brasile. The Vil∣lage [ 30] of Bonao is neere vnto Cotuy,* 2.44 which the first Admirall also built, where hee made a Fort for the securitie of the Mynes, which were the first that were found in this Iland. The Village of Bonauenture is eight leagues from Saint Dominicke to the North,* 2.45 and Lares de Guahaba, which Nicholas of Ouando peopled, being Comendador Lares.

* 2.46This Iland flourished so much, that there were in it fourteene thousand Castillanes, many of them Noble people, and the Plantations of other parts which happened afterward, caused it to be disinhabited; for from it, and from the Iland of Cuba, went all the substance for the new Coun∣treyes that were found.

The Ports, Roades, Capes, and Points most famous, and the Ilands pertayning to the Coast of this Iland, are in the South Coast, the Point of Nizao, ten leagues from Saint Dominicke to the [ 40] West. The Port of Ocoa, eighteene, which is a Bay where the Fleets which goe for Noua E∣spania doe anchor and take refreshing, when they doe not anchor in the nooke of Zepezepin, which is neere vnto it,* 2.47 or in another which they call the Faire Hauen, two leagues before they come to Ocoa. Azua a Port and Towne twentie foure leagues beyond Ocoa la Calongia, a large Point thirtie leagues, right against the Ilands of Boata and Altobelo, fiue leagues from the Coast, and the Beatados. Yaquimo about thirtie foure more to the West, and Abaque, an Iland neere the Cape of Tiburon, the furthest West of Hispaniola: la Nabaza ten leagues to the Sea East and West from the Cape, and Cape Rojo twelue leagues from it to the North: the Rookes, or Hermanos Trees, Isle Oucillos neere the Coast that turneth to the East: Caymito another little Iland betweene these, and Guanabo another Iland of eight leagues in length, in the nooke of Yaguana. The Port [ 50] and Cape of Saint Nicholas, the furthest West on the North side of the Iland. A little further the Port of * 2.48 Mosquitos, in the North Coast, and twentie league•• forward the Port of Valparay∣so, or of the Conception, North and South, with the Tortuga an Iland neere the Coast of fiue leagues in length: Port Royall twelue leagues to the West from Monte-Christe, which is as much, or a little more before Isabela, and this from the Port of Plate, other twelue leagues: Cabo Fran∣ces, and Cabo del Cabron, in the turning, which the Coast maketh to the East, before the Gulfe of Samana, which entreth fiue or sixe leagues the Land inward, vnto the place where the Towne of Sancta Cruz stood. And in the Riuer of Samana, was the first time that Armes were taken against the men of the Indies▪* 2.49 because they would haue done violence to the first Admirall. The Cape of Deceit, (Cabo del Enganno) is the furthest West of the Iland where the Coast returneth by the South to the West, at the beginning of the which stands the Saona, an Iland which the [ 60] fleets doe reknowledge, when they goe, and somewhat more towards Saint Dominicke is ano∣ther little Iland, which is called Saint Katherine; and all the names rehearsed were giuen by the first Admirall.

The Iland of Cuba which first was called Iuana, or Ioane, by the Father Don Iuan,* 2.50 and after it was commanded to be called Fernandina by his Father. The Captaine Sebastian of Ocampo, made an end of compassing the yeere of our Lord 1508. by order of Nicholas of Ouando: for vntill then it was not wholly belieued that it was Land, and the yeere 1511. the President Iames Velazques went ouer with three hundred Spaniards, by order of the second Admirall to pa∣cifie it. It hath two hundred and thirty leagues from the Cape of Saint Antonie, vnto the Point of Mayzi, going by Land, although by the Sunne, and by water there are not so many. It hath in breadth from the Cape of Crosses, to the Port of Manati, fortie fiue leagues, and then it be∣ginneth to streighten, and goeth to the last Cape, or Occidentall Point, where it is narrow, of [ 10] twelue leagues, little more or lesse, from Matamano to the Auana. Her situation is within the Tropicke of Cancer, from twentie to twentie one degrees, the Countrey is almost all plaine, with many Forrests, and thicke Woods: from the Easterne Point of Mayci, for thirtie leagues it hath most high Mountaynes, and likewise in the middest it hath some, and there runne from them to the North, and to the South, very pleasant Riuers, with great store of fish. On the South side it hath the little Ilands, which the first Admirall called the Queenes Garden, and the other on the North side, which Iames Velazquez called the Kings Garden, the trees are of many diffe∣rences, and wild Vines as bigge as a man: they gather no Wheate nor other Seedes of Spaine, but great abundance of Cattle: it hath great Copper Mynes, and of Gold, and is it found in the Riuers, though it be base in the touch.

[ 20] Iames Velazquez peopled first the Citie of Saint Iames in the South Coast,* 2.51 fortie leagues from the Cape of Tiburon, which is in Hispaniola, and two leagues from the Sea, neere to a Port, one of the best in the World, for securitie and greatnesse. The Citie came to haue two thousand Inhabitants; now it hath few with a Gouernours Deputie: the Cathedrall Suffragane to Saint Domingo, is resident in it, and a Monastery of Franciscan Friers. The Village of Baracoa,* 2.52 is a Towne furthest East of the Iland of Cuba, at the beginning of the North Coast 60. leagues from the Citie of S. Iames toward the East North-east, which was also an inhabiting of the President Iames Ve∣lazquez. The Village of Bayam••, which Iames Velazquez also built,* 2.53 is 20. leagues from S. Iames to the North-west, it is the soundest Town of the Iland, of a more open soyle, and of a good disposi∣tion. The Village and Port of the Prince, in the Coast of the North,* 2.54 is about fortie leagues from [ 30] Saint Iames to the North-west. The Village of Sancti Spiritus, is a Port on the South side, be∣tweene the Trinidad, and the Cayo de Basco Porcallo, of Figueroa, about fiftie leagues from Saint Iames, a Colonie of Iames Velazquez.

The Village and Port of Saint Christopher of the Abana, is in the North Coast, almost op∣posite to Florida, in twentie two degrees and an halfe in height, of more then sixe hun∣dred Housholds; where the Gouernour resides and the Officers Royall.* 2.55 The Port is mar∣uellous in greatnesse and securitie, especially since that King Philip the Second, the pru∣dent, sent the Campe-master Iohn of Texeda, and Baptista Antonelli, to fortifie it: in it all the Fleetes of the Indies doe meete for to come for Spaine in company. It was first called the Port of Carennas: and Iames Velazquez built this Village, and all the rest of the Iland,* 2.56 with [ 40] the assistance of the Father Bartolome de las Casas, which afterward became a Dominicke Frier, and Bishop of Chiapa.

The Ports and Capes, and point of the Coast of Cuba, and the Ilands belonging to it besides those which are rehearsed are in the South Coast, the Port of the Citie of Saint Iames in twentie degrees, and twentie fiue leagues to the West: the Port of Sancti Spiritus, Cape of the Crosse twelue leagues forward, and the Queenes Gardens, which is a great shelfe of Ilands and shoales: the Port of Trinitie in twentie one degrees, about thirtie leagues from the Cape of the Crosse, and ten more to the West, the Gulfe of Xagua, a great defence with some Ilands, in the middest, and forward the Two Sisters, two Ilands at the beginning of the great shelfe, and Ilands, and shoales, which they call Camarco, betweene the Coast and the Ilands, which is of ten leagues in length, [ 50] and seuen in breadth twelue leagues from the Cape of Correntes, which is as many from the Cape of Saint Antonie, the furthest West of this Iland.* 2.57 In the North Coast standeth the Port of A∣bana, and thirtie leagues to the East is the Port of Slaughters where was a Towne, and was cal∣led de Matanças, of the Slaughters, because the Indians killed certaine Spaniards, which they car∣ried in their Can••ose vnder securitie to the other side, only one escaping▪ and two women whom they kept sometime with them. From the * 2.58 Matanças to the Port of Yucanaca, are fiftie leagues to the Kings Garden, which is a great shelfe of little Illets and shoales, and at the end of the Iland Obahaua, eight leagues before the Port of the Prince, foure or six from the Port of Fer∣nando Alanso, and six to the East of this, Cubana which is a point. The Port of Varocoa is about twentie leagues before the point of Maizi, the farthest West of Cuba, and the hidden Port and Gulfe neere to Cape f 2.59 Roio, in the South-coast, about twentie leagues from the Port of Pidge∣ons, [ 60] which is about ten leagues from the Port of Saint Iames.

* 2.60THe Iland of Iamayca was so abundant of victuals, and breedings, that it gaue great pro∣uision of Cotton, Horses, Swine, and Cozabi, for the new Discoueries, and the first Admi∣rall called it Saint Iames, when hee discouered it: and the first that passed to inhabit it, was the Captayne Iohn Esquiuell, the yeere 1509. by order of the second Admirall Don Diego Colon. It stands in seuenteene degrees and an halfe of altitude in the middest of it, and twentie leagues from Cuba to the South, and as many from Hispaniola, direct to the West. It hath in compasse one hundred and fiftie leagues, it hath East and West fiftie, and twentie in breadth. There are in it three Villages,* 2.61 Siuill in which is the Seat of the Colledge, toward the North Coast somewhat Westerly; Iohn Squinell a Gentleman of Siuill peopled it: Melilla, which stands in the [ 10] North Coast, fourteene leagues from Siuill to the East: Oristan in the South Coast towards the West fourteene leagues from Siuill, and are Plantations of the President Francisco de Garay, which gouerned in it. But of the Towne de la Vega, whence the Admirals Lords of this I∣land tooke the Title of Dukes, nor of other two Plantations painted in some Maps, there is no notice.

* 2.62There is in the Coast of this Iland, the Point of Moranta the vttermost West of it, by the North Coast ten leagues to the West, the Port of Ianta, and tenne leagues forward the Port of Melilla, where they say the first Admirall arriued, and called it Santa Gloria, when hee returned lost from Veragua;* 2.63 and heere happened to him the mutiny of the Porras of Siuill: and it was the first Ciuill Warre of the Indies. Other ten leagues thence standeth the Port of Siuill, before the [ 20] Point Negrillo, from whence the Coast windeth, vnto the Cabo de Falcon, neere to Oristan, and goeth by the South to the Port of Guayano. And fiue leagues from this Coast, are the Har∣mingas, a dangerous shoale, and seuen leagues further las Viuoras, small Ilands compassed with shoales, and to the South of them the Serrana, and a little Iland compassed with shoales, with o∣ther foure or fiue neere vnto it, and to the North-west of it, the Serranilla, and to the West of it the Roncador, another Rocke, and to the South-west of it, Saint Andrewes, an Iland compas∣sed with shoales North and South, with Nombre de Dios, about fortie leagues from it, and neere from thence another called Sancta Catilina; the n 2.64 Caymanes directly West from Iamayca, twen∣tie fiue leagues from the little o 2.65 Blackmoore, which are two little Ilands sixe leagues the one from the other, and the great Cayman another Iland of seuen leagues in length, fifteene leagues [ 30] from the Caymanes to the West, and to the North Coast, betweene Cuba and Hispaniola, another shoale which is called p 2.66 Abre-oio.

The Iland of Saint Iohn of Port Rico, which the Indians called Barriquen, lyeth betwixt twelue and fifteene leagues from Hispaniola, to the East, of fortie fiue leagues in length, East and West; and from North to South, betwixt twentie and thirtie, very plentifull of all that Hispaniola hath, and of Millet, Yuca, and of Mynes of Gold. The temperature is good, and almost one all the yeere, except in December and Ianuary. There is in it three Spanish Townes with a Gouernment, and a Bishoppricke: the President Iohn Ponce of Lion passed to discouer this Iland the yeere 1508. being Gouernour in the Prouince of Yguey, for Nicholas of Ouando in Hi∣spaniola, and returned the yeere 1510. by order of the King to people it. The Citie of Saint Iohn,* 2.67 is in the beginning of the North Coast, on the East side in eighteene degrees of height, [ 40] and they call it of Port Rico, for the excellencie of the Hauen. The Bishop and the Gouernour are resident in it, and the Officers of the Kings Reuenues: and it is Suffragane to Saint Domingo. Arrecibo stands thirtie leagues to the West from Port Rico: the Towne of Guadianilla, or Saint German the New,* 2.68 in the Westerne Coast three and thirtie leagues from Port Rico to the South-west.

There was in old time in this Iland another Towne which was called Guanica, in the South Coast, at the end of it where now is the Port of Mosquitos, which is very good, from whence it was remoued to another situation of the Westerne Coast, which they call Aguada, or the Wa∣tering, with name of Soto-Mayor: there is in this Iland a row of Mountaynes, that diuide it in the middest East and West vnto the Sea, and Borders of Saint German, and heere is found the [ 50] Tree called Tabernaculo,* 2.69 which yeeldeth white Rozen, like Gumme-Anime, and it serueth for Pitch for the ships, and for fire or light, and it is medicinable to take out the colde or num∣nesse, and to cure wounds.

There are few Ports in this Iland, for all the Coast of the North is very foule with shoales, and Rockes: those that are, are to the East from the Port of Saint Iohn. The Riuer of Luysa, and that which they call Canoba,* 2.70 and la Cabeça; the farthest East point of the Iland, neere to the Hill of the Loquillos, and in it a Port which they call Saint Iames; three leagues further is another called Yabucoa, and three leagues from the Coast, on this side of the passage, is a little Illet, and at the beginning of the South passage, another which they call Boyqui, and forward [ 60] the Iland of Saint Anne, Guayama a Port, and afterward the Riuers Neabon, and Xauia, six leagues before the Port of Guadianilla, two leagues to the East of the Riuer of Mosquitos, in whose mouth is the Riuer called Guanica, and six leagues from it, the Cape Roio, the furthest West of the South Coast: and to the West of it, toward Hispaniola is the Iland of Moua, and to the North of it

the Manico, and Zecheo, other two little Ilands: the Port of Pines, and the Port of Mayaguez, and the Bay of Saint German the old, and the mouth of the Riuer Guanabo, or the Watering, and that of Guabataca more forward, and afterward in the North Coast, that of Camay, and of Ci∣buco, and T••a, neere to Port Rico, and in the middest of the Coast of the South Sea, leauing vnto it the Haberianas, foure or fiue little Ilands.* 2.71 There is also much Ginger gathered in this Iland, which is a Root like vnto Madder, or Saffron, which the Portugals brought from the East, to this Iland of Barlouento.

The Ilands which are to the North of Saint Iohn, Hispaniola, and Cuba, of which none is inhabited with Spaniards, are called the Lucayos. One the most Septentrionall, is aboue twen∣tie [ 10] seuen degrees of altitude, which is called Lucayoneque, or Yucayoneque, which hath almost to the West Bahama another Iland in twentie sixe degrees and an halfe, of thirteene leagues in length, and eight in breadth,* 2.72 from whence the Channell of Bahama betweene Florida and the shoales Delos Mimbres taketh the name, whereby the Currents of the Sea doe goe so swi••t to the North, that although the wind be prosperous the ships cannot enter it, and although they be contrary they goe with the Currents.

The shelues of Bimini, are so called of an Iland in the middest of them, of fiue leagues in length, which the first Admirall gaue the name the first time he came to Cuba, and it is that which Iohn Paul of Lyon did agree to inhabit. Abacoa, is another in the middest of the said shelfe of twelue leagues in length: Cigateo of twentie fiue. Curateo, another small Iland in twentie sixe de∣grees: [ 20] and Guamma fifteene leagues of length, and ten in breadth, and neere vnto it Guanahani,* 2.73 the first Land of the Indies, which the first Admirall discouered, which he called Saint Sauiour; Yuma of twentie leagues, and eight in breadth, in twentie foure degrees and an halfe, which the Admirall named Isabella, in honour of the famous Queene Donna Isabella his particular Pro∣tectresse, and that gaue him this Discouerie. Iumeto in twentie three degrees and an halfe, fif∣teene leagues in length, to the North of Hispaniola. Samana seuen leagues ouer, betweene Iu∣meto and Guanima, three square of eight leagues in length, in twentie foure degrees, Yabaque of ten leagues, in twentie two degrees and an halfe. Mira-par-vos, are three little Ilands in tri∣angle, compassed with shelues, to the South of Iumeto. Mayaguana, twentie leagues in length and ten in breadth, is twentie three degrees. Ynagua of ten leagues, in twentie degrees and an [ 30] halfe. The Cayco••, an Iland of fiue leagues, in twentie one degrees, and to the North of it is an∣other, called Hamaua, and another Conciua. Maçarey stands in twentie degrees compassed with shelues. Abreoi•• is a great shelfe of fifteene leagues, the middest of it in twentie de∣grees, and among these Ilands are many little ones without name.

The Ilands that are from the Iland of Saint Iohn of Porte-Rico, to the East of it, toward the coast of Terra firm••, were called the Canibals, by the many * 2.74 Caribes,* 2.75 eaters of humaine flesh that were in them: and in their language, Canibal, is to say Valiant man; for they were held for such of the other Indians. All these Ilands are dangerous for shelues, and the nearest to Saint Iohn, are Sancta Cruz, to the South-west from it, in 16. degrees, and a halfe of sixteene leagues, and Sa∣ba▪ las Virgines, two little illets compassed with shelues, and other eight or ten Ilands, the greatest [ 40] of ten leagues: Virgen gorda, and the Blancos or White Ilands, Westward from Virgen gorda, L•• Ane gada, of seuen leagues in length, in 18. degrees and a halfe compassed with shelues, as Sambrero is, a little Iland neere vnto it: and these Ilands which are called the Weather Ilands or Barlouento, the first Admirall discouered: and in particular, the men of Sancta Cruz, and others,* 2.76 had a custome to goe and hunt for men to the Iland of Saint Iohn, for to eate, and at this day they of Dominica doe it. They did eate no women, but kept them for slaues. Now they say, that with∣in this little while, they of Dominica did eate a Fryer, and that all they which did eate his flesh, had such a fluxe, that some dyed, and that therefore they haue left eating humane flesh:* 2.77 and it may be, because instead of men, with lesse danger, they steale Kine and Mares, for the great quan∣titie there is of them, and with this they satisfie their raging appetite.

[ 50] Anguilla hath ten leagues of length, it standeth in 18. degrees. Saint Martin in 17. degrees and a halfe, it is of sixteene leagues, compassed with little Illets: and neere vnto it Saint Eu∣stace, Saint Bartholomew, and Saint Christopher, euery one of tenne leagues. The Barbada in 17. de∣grees and a halfe, compassed with shelues, neere to the Redo••da and the Snowes or Nieues, and of Monserrate, of fiue leagues euery one, in 15. degrees and a halfe. The Antigua, Guadalupe, and Todos Santos, from 14. to 15. degrees. The Desseada to the East of Guadalupe, about sixe leagues, the first which the Admirall Don Christopher discouered, in the second Voyage that he made to the Indies, in 14. degrees and a halfe, for which the fleete goe alwayes from the Ca∣naries. Marigalante, the name of the Shippe the Admirall had, fiue leagues to the South-west from the Desired, and from the Dominica, in 13. degrees, twelue leagues in length, where the [ 60] Fleetes take in water and wood, for it hath good roades, although with danger of the Canibals. Neere vnto Dominica to the South, stands Matinino, Sancta Lucie, and the Barbudos, the which because they fall on the left hand of the Fleetes, when they goe, they call them already of the Ilands of the Leeward (de Sotauento) which appertaine to the coast of Terra firme: and of them the greatest, the first, and the most Orientall is the Trinidad, neere two hundred leagues from

Hispaniola, North and South with the Dominica, about sixtie leagues from it. It hath fiftie leagues in leangth East and West,* 2.78 and almost thirty in breadth. The Admirall discouered it the yeare 1498. the third Voyage that he made to the Indies, and called it the Trinitie, because ha∣uing great trouble in the Voyage, he had promised to God to giue such a name to the first Land that he should finde, and presently the Mariner that was in the top, saw three points of Land, whereby the name fitted euery way to his vowe: then hee discouered also the mouthes of the Dragon, and of the Serpent, the gulfe of Paria, and all the firme Land vnto Cumana, which in∣iustly Americus Vesputio claimes to himselfe, whose name vnworthily is giuen to the port which they call Peninsula Australis or Indies of the South.* 2.79 This Iland of Trinidad is knowne that it is no good Countrie, though it hath many Indians; it hath thirtie fiue leagues of longitude, and others say more, and twentie fiue of latitude, it stands in 8. degrees: the most orientall part of it, is a point on the North side, which is called de la Galera: and to the North of it a small I∣land, compassed with little Iles, which they call Tabago: and in the South coast a Cape which they call the Round Point: at the East, the point of Anguilla, at the West in the gulfe of Paria, which is that that is from the Iland to Terra firme, which may be eight leagues of distance, be∣cause the firme Land maketh an oblique semicircle, as a Diadem; and in the entrance of the East is the distance recited; in the entrance of the West, the straightnes is much, and with great depth, and two little Ilands at the end of the North coast; by the West, which is called the Dragons mouth: and to the North S. Vincent, and Granada, other two little Ilands.

The Iland of Margarita, so named by Christopher Colon, the first Admirall (as also all the rest, [ 20] a most sufficient proofe of the Finder, to the confusion of those which depriued him of the glory of the discouerie of the firme Land, attributing it to themselues, although changing the times) it is twentie leagues from Trinidad Westward, and one hundred and seuenty from Hispaniola: it hath sixteen leagues in length East and West, and yet some say twenty, and the halfe in breadth; it hath no store of water, although it is very plentifull of Pastures for Cattle. There is in it two Townes, one neare the Sea, which reacheth to a fortresse where the Gouernour is resident, and another two leagues within the Land, which is called the Valley of Sancta Lucie: there is in his coast a good port, and a nooke, and many beds of Pearles, whither the fishing of them is re∣moued, which before was in Cubagua, and they say it went away from thence, for the rumour [ 30] of the ordnance of the many Shippes that resorted to this Iland, to the trafficke of the Pearles, which was very great.* 2.80 Cubagua stands one league from Margarita to the East, there is no water in it, and yet the new Cadiz was built there, and they carried their water seuen leagues, from the Riuer of Cumana. To the East of Cubagua are foure little Illets, close by the shoare, which the first Admirall called Los * 2.81 Frayles: and to the East betweene them and Granada, other foure or fiue, which he called (Los Testigos) the Witnesses, and to the West after Cubagua, another lit∣tle Iland which he named (Tortuga) the Tortoyse, neere to the point of Araya: and from hence the discouery being made from below Paria, he went to Hispaniola, with a purpose to finish the discouery of Terra firme: and as here after shall be seene, hee went after to discouer, and found the Ilands of the Guanaios, and from before Veragua, vntill he passed Nombre de Dios. The [ 40] Officers and Royall treasure are in Margarita: and it, and the Iland of Cubagua, are in eleuen de∣grees, a little more.

* 2.82THe Gouernment of Venezuela parteth the bounds in the coast of Terra firme, to the East, with the new Andaluzia, from whence to the Riuer of Hacha, and Gouernment of Sancta Martha, with which it ioyneth by the West, is an hundred and thirty leagues, and within the Land about eightie, vnto the bounds of the new Kingdome of Granada. In this Countrie are vaines of Gold of more then two and twentie carracts and a halfe: it is plentifull of Wheate, because there is two haruests in the yeare, and most abundance of all kinde of Cattle, great and small. There goeth from this Prouince great store of Meale, Bisket, Cheese, Bacon, and much Cotten-linnen: and in the port of Guayra, in the Prouince of Caracas, are laden many Cowe-Hides, [ 50] and Sarsaparilla. There is in it eight Spanish Townes: and the name Venezuela was giuen it, because when the Belzares, Almain••s, went to gouerne in this Prouince the yeare 1528. by a couenant which they made with the Emperour,* 2.83 they thought to inhabit in a Rocke and hils that are in the mouth of the Lake of Maracaybo, where it falleth in the Sea, a Towne which they named Venezuela. It stands in 8. degrees, a little more, and from hence the Couernment tooke the name. His first Towne is the Citie of Coro, which the Indians call Coriana, which com∣monly they call now Venezuela,* 2.84 it stands in 11. degrees of altitude, and 79. degrees one third part from the Meridian of Toledo, one thousand and fiue hundred leagues from it: here the Gouernor is wont to be resident, and there is the Cathedrall Church suffragane to the Archbishop of S. Do∣minicke. Iohn of Ampues built first this Citie, and then those that went for the Belzares made [ 60] their abode in it, the first was Ambrose Alfinger: it is so healthfull, and of so good an ayre, that there is no neede of Physitians.

The second place is our Lady of Carualleda, in the Prouince of Caracas, neere to the Sea, East from Coro eightie leagues,* 2.85 and with a bad Hauen: Don Francisco Faiardo built it the yeare 1560.

which went for that purpose from the Margarita. S. Iames of Lyon in the same Prouince, se∣uen leagues within the Land, and three from Carualleda to the South, and sixtie from Coro,* 2.86 where at this time the Gouernour is most resident. The new Valencia sixtie leagues from Coro, and twentie fiue from S. Iames of Lyon, seuen from the port of Burburata▪ The Captaine Villa∣cinda peopled it. The new Xerez about fifteene leagues, almost South from the new Valencia,* 2.87 and twentie from the new Segouia, and sixtie from Coro to the South-east, a new Towne. The new Segouias, in the Prouince of Bariquizimito, twentie leagues from Xerez to the South,* 2.88 and tenne from Tucuyo, and eightie from Coro to the South-east, where the Officers royall, the Gouernour, and the Lieuetenant are resident at times: Iohn of Villegas peopled it in the yeare 1552. The Citie of Tucuyo is famous, because in it they slew the tyrant Lope of Aguirre, it stands tenne [ 10] leagues from Segouia, to the South-west, eightie fiue from Coro; it is the habitation of the Captaine Caruajal. Truxillo, or our Ladie of Peace, in the Prouince of Cuycas,* 2.89 about eightie leagues almost to the South, direct from Coro, somewhat to the East, and twentie fiue from Tu∣cuyo, directly to the West.

The Auditor Vallejo discouered this the yeare 1549, the Bacheller Tollosa being Gouernour in it: and the yeare 1559. the Captaine Iames Gar••ia of Paredes inhabited Truxillo: and there may be in this Gouernment more then 100000. Indies tributaries, and in them are not compre∣hended from eighteene vnder, nor aboue fiftie yeares, because the supreme Counsell of the In∣dies hath prouided, that in no place of this Orbe, these doe pay tribute: and because daily [ 20] they increase and diminish in number, it cannot be said precisely and perfectly how many there are.

The Lake of Maracaybo, which the Castilanes call of our Lady, is of fresh water,* 2.90 it entreth fortie leagues within the Land, from the Sea, and hath more then tenne in breadth, and eighty in compasse, with many Townes vpon his Borders: in the end of it entreth a Riuer that descen∣deth from the new Kingdome of Granada, by the which, and the Lake, Marchandise are trans∣ported which came to the new Kingdome of Castile, and to other places; some of the men of this Lake doe liue in Boates, their houses being made in the Trees within the water, and at the Border, whence it tooke also at the first, the name of Venezuela; sayling by some parts of this Lake, ye can see no Land: there enter into it other great Riuers, it runneth to the Sea, it hath about halfe a league of mouth, and in it the shoale and rocks abouesaid.

[ 30] The Ports, Capes, and Points of the coast of this Gouernment, and those annexed vnto it,* 2.91 are to the West, Marcapa••a, the Vrchila, an Iland against the Riuer Oynare, neere to another called Rocke of the Ilets, and afterward the Cape of the Codera, and Puerto Flechardo, and the hauen of Sardinas or Pilchers: and opposite the Ile of Aues or Birds, before Burburata, a maruellous ha∣uen, which the Bachiler Tolosa peopled, and is a Scale or Port for the new Kingdome (Nueuo Reyno) & Prouinces of Peru, and after that is Gulfo triste, and to the North of the Bonayre, an Iland of ten leagues in length, and eight in breadth, and afterward Punta seca, and right against it Cu∣racao, and a little forward Curacaute, foureteene leagues in length, right against the Cape of S. Roman to the South of the Iland of Aruba. S. Roman entreth twentie leagues into the Sea, it standeth twelue from Coro, the Indians doe call it Paraguana, it lacketh a little to be an Iland: it [ 40] may haue in compasse twenty fiue leagues and more of plaine ground, with a Mountaine almost in the middest: it is discouered a great way into the Sea. There is at the beginning of the Gulfe of Venezuela, the entrance and channell of the Lake of Maracaybo, and at the entrance of it the Riuer Mitare, and to the West the Monkes, three little Ilets close by the Point and Cape of Co∣quibocoa, where onely in all the Indies was found waight and touch for the Gold, and afterwards the deepe Baye (Balua Honda) and the Portete, the Cape de Vela, which the Captaine Alfonsus of Ojeda named, when Americo Vespucio went with him the first time, much after that the Ad∣mirall discouered this coast, which stands in 12. degrees, somewhat more. And there is from the Cape de Vela, to the Riuer of Hache eighteene leagues, without any stone in them, nor water, but raine water. This Gouernment remained destroyed, since the time of the Almaines, because [ 50] they would not inhabit, onely seeke to make slaues, and to waste the Countrie.

They called first the Riuer of Hache, our Ladie of the Snowes, and after of the Remedies, neere vnto the Sea, betweene Venezuela, and Sancta Marta, to the East, thirtie leagues from it, and six∣tie from Coro to the West, North and South with the Cape de Vela, with eight leagues of bounds betweene Venezuela and Sancta Marta, without showes of Gold. It is gouerned by Alcaldes im∣mediate to the Counsell of Hispaniola, and the Spiritualtie is of the Bishopricke of Sancta Mar∣ta. The Towne is 1000. paces from the Sea, on a little hill: the Hauen hath the North for tra∣uers, it is a most fertile Countrie, and yeeldeth whatsoeuer is in Castile: there are many Tigers, Beares, Ants, and Lizards in the Riuers, much Gold, and Stones of diuers vertues, for the Spleene, [ 60] the Kidneys, for the Milt, and Flix, and they haue good Salt-pits. Nicolas Federman for the Bel∣zares, was he that began to inhabit this Towne. The gouernment of Serpa••, which they call the new Andaluzia, and in the Indian Language Guayana, extends the limits. From the Iland of Margarita vnto the riuer Ma••auyon, three hundred leagues to the East, and as many North and South within the Land, wherein the Indians Omagues are included, and the Omygas,

with the Prouinces of Dorodo, to the south of this Gouernment, wherein falleth by the Coast the Prouince of Maracapana, in the bounds of Veneculela, where the mouths of Sancta Fe were inhabited, in whose Borders is the knob of Vnare, and neere vnto it a great Lake with great store of fish and salt, and the Indians which are called of Perito, twentie leagues within the Land, and the Indians Palenques, so called for the Poles wherewith they fortified themselues, and the Pro∣uince of Cumana, North and south with the Margarita, where is a Towne of Spaniards, which is called new Cordoua, which the Captayne Gonçalo of Ocampo built, when he went to chastise the Indians of Cumana, for the destruction of the Monastery of the Religious Franciscans. And to the East or the Iland of Trinidad, and the Riuer of Saint Iohn of the Amazones, is the Pro∣uince of the Indians Arnacas, part of the Caniballs, and all Warlike, that neuer are quiet or peaceable. [ 10]

After the point of Paria, which stands in seuen degrees, and the Dragons Mouth neere vnto Trinidad stands the point Del Gallo, or Anegada, to the South of the Trinitie, and the Riuer of Paria, or Oriuico, which some call Yuyapari; and others will haue that these two, and the Riuer of Saint Iohn, and of Orellana be all one thing, and also the Marauyon; but in this they are de∣ceiued. There be other Riuers in the Prouince of the Arnacas that are well knowne, the Riuer of Saint Iohn, or of Orellana springeth in the Andes of Peru, right against Cuzco, from whence it runneth fifteene hundred leagues, or more, winding vnder the Equinoctiall, by Countreyes well inhabited, though not well discouered, till it came to run into the North Sea, whose mouth hath in breadth fiftie leagues; and in the first fiue hundred from the mouth vpward, many Ilands inhabited; and eightie or a hundred leagues more to the West, stands the Riuer of Morauyon, al∣most [ 20] in the bounds whereby passeth the Line of the Diuision betweene Castile and Portugall,* 2.92 and is great and terrible, hauing fifteene leagues of mouth, and the streame commeth from the parts of the South, and the Prouinces of Brasill, and they say that the spring is vnder Popayau, and the bounds of the new Kingdome of Granada.

* 2.93Seuen leagues from Cumana stands the Iland of Cubagua, where stood as was said, the new Cadiz, which was disinhabited because the fishing for Pearles fayled: this Iland had no water that could be drunke, nor trees, nor beasts; for all is brackish, except those Hogges that haue the Nauell in their backe-bone,* 2.94 and some small Conies, and hauing so great inhabiting, they went seuen leagues to the riuer of Cumana for water, although there was an opinion that it bred webbes in the eyes.* 2.95 In this Riuer and coast, hapned in the yeare 1530. the first of September, [ 30] the hauen being cleare, the Sea did rise foure fadomes from his ordinary course, and entring into the earth it began to shake, and the fortresse which the Captaine Iacome of Castellon had built by order of the Counsell of Hispaniola, fell, and the earth did open in many places, where∣out sprang much salt water as blacke as inke, and did stinke of brimstone, and the mountaine of the gulfe of Cariaco remained open with a great rift: many houses fell, many people died drow∣ned, and with feare, and taken with the earth quake. Margarita one league from Cubagua a more pleasant Iland,* 2.96 the Bachiller Marcelo of Villalobos did people it.

* 2.97The Prouince and Gouernment of Florida, bordering on the Counsell of Hispaniola, according to the Gouernment of Peter Melendez, is all that which lyeth from the Riuer of Palmes, which doth confine with the Gouernment of Panuco in new Spaine, limits of the Counsell of Mexico, [ 40] which is neere the tropicke in 22. degrees, vnto the point of Bacallaos, which falleth in 48. de∣grees, and a halfe, in the which are 1258. leagues of Coast, and from thence to 73. degrees of al∣titude to the North by the Coast, and within the Land all that which hee discouereth. Of this hath beene coasted and discouered, from the Riuer of Palmes vnto the Point of Sancta Helena, and the Riuer Iordan, which are about 600. leagues, it is a firme Land of a good climate, plenti∣full, and well inhabited in many places, as those that went through it with Hernando of Soto did know it, the yeare 1536. and 1537. Iohn Pardo borne in Cuenca, went by Land from Florida to new Spaine, in lesse then two yeares, and it is the neerest Europe of any part of the Indies, & from the Bay of S. Ioseph, which is eightie leagues from Panuco. There is also discouered vnto New found Land, but that which is particularly taken for Florida, is the point that goeth into the Sea North [ 50] and South, with the Iland of Cuba, of a hundred leagues in length, and twentie fiue in breadth East and West, and (when it is most) thirtie. Iohn Ponce of Lyon discouered it Anno 1512. on Ea∣ster day,* 2.98 and for this cause he called it Florida: and afterward returned the yeere 1521. and retired wounded to Cuba, where he dyed, leauing a report that he sought the Fountaine or Riuer which the Indians said that old men washing themselues therin, became yong. This Prouince is according to the temperature of Castile, and many fruits were found there like the fruits of Spain, and it see∣meth fit for Cattle and Corne. There is no Gould, neither seemeth that the Indians did know it, nor Siluer;* 2.99 for it hath beene seene that they haue found the Chests with bars of it and money in their coasts, and made no account of it: yet Hernando de Soto, within the inward parts of the [ 60] great Riuer, found great abundance of Pearles.

There are but two Fortresses in this Prouince with men in Garison, both in the Coast that looketh to the East: the one is called Saint Marke, in the point of Saint Helena, about one hun∣dred leagues from the Hauana, and another of Saint Augustin, which is the principall, because

[illustration]

[illustration] map of Virginia and Florida

HONDIVS his Map of Florida.

VIRGINIA et FLORIDA

[ 40] the hauen is good, and is neere the channell of Baliama. It stands about fiftie leagues from los Martyres, which are many little Ilands inhabited, which are neare the point of Florida, where∣by it ioyneth most with the Iland of Cuba, a league and a halfe, and lesse, the one from the other,* 2.100 with a ranke of shelues with mouthes, in twentie three or twentie foure leagues, which these Martyres haue in length; whose beginning on the West side, is called the Point of the Martyres, and to the East, the Head of the Martyres; and there is an Iland of foureteene leagues in length, and very narrow, the Point of it is the first of Terra firme to the East, in 24. degrees and a halfe, where a Towne of Spaniards was built, which continued not, and to the North, almost direct the Riuer Ays, and more Northward in 28. degrees, the Point of the Caues, and forward the Riuer of * 2.101 Gnats, before the Riuer of Matanca, which is so called by that which Peter Melendez did to the Captaine Ribas, and his Frenchmen: and the Point of S. Augustin in 29. degrees three quarters, and [ 50] ten leagues from thence the Riuer of S. Mathew, from whence the Coast turneth to the North North-east, all with the Ilands and Bays leaning vnto it vnto the Cape, or Point of Saint Hellen, which stands in 32. degrees and a halfe, which was discouered by chance the yeare 1520.

In all the rest of the Coast that is betweene the point of Sancta Helena, by New found Land and the Bacallaos, vnto the Land of Labrador, which reacheth and passeth the height of England,* 2.102 there is no Towne nor Gouernment of Spaniards, although by diuers times and Nations, it hath beene discouered and Nauigated, and it is knowne there is aboue one thousand leagues iourney of Land without gold, and the more in height the worse, and lesse habitable. There be many Ri∣uers, and Ports, that because they are not well knowne nor frequented, there is no mention made [ 60] but of the Riuer of the * 2.103 Stagges, by another name of Sancta Marie, which is a very great and maine Riuer, almost in the midst of the Coast betweene the Baccallaos, from whence the great Riuer Ochelago entreth within the Land toward the West, which diuers times the strangers haue nauigated, beleeuing to haue found that way passage to new Spaine. And in the Coast of Florida, which looketh to the West, are the * 2.104 Tortoyses, seuen or eight Ilands together: and to

the North of the point of los Marty••e••, the Muspa in terra firme. And thirteene leagues to the North,* 2.105 the Bay of Charles, by another name of Iohn Ponce of Lyon, and as much more forward, the Bay of Tampa, thirtie three leagues from the Bay of Tocobaga, by another name, of the Holy Ghost, or de Meruelo, in twentie nine degrees and an halfe of height, where beginneth that which properly is called Florida. Many haue thought, that by this side of Florida, toward the land of Labrador, there might a streit be found to communicate the North & the South Seas together, saying that as it had beene found to the South, there should be one to the North but experience doth shew, that the South passage is no streight, at the least it is alreadie in doubt, and by the North vntill now, though it hath beene much sought for it hath not beene found, and hee that went neerest to it was the President Peter Melendez, by some conjectures. [ 10]

* 2.106All the Coast on the West side, vnto the Gouernment of Panuco, which is aboue 300. leagues, is called The Gulfe of New Spaine, wherein is no Towne of Spaniards, though it was giuen for a gouernment to Pamphilo of Naruaez, and to Hernando of Soto, and first to Francisco de Garay, and of his people in particular. The Country is very poore of victuals, and the people miserable, and although in it are many Riuers and Ports, no mention is made of them, because they are not well knowne. This Gulfe hath two entrances: by the one the currents doe enter furiously, be∣tweene Yucatan and Cuba,* 2.107 and goe out with a greater force betweene the same Iland of Cuba, and the point of Florida, and running doe make the channell of Bahama, which taketh his name of the Iland rehearsed.

[ 20]

THe second Audience which was setled in the Indies, is that of New Spaine, and Nunyo de Guzonau Cauallero de Guadalaiara was the first President,* 2.108 till a Gouernour were prouided, and because he gaue no satisfaction, there was another new Councell quickly sent, and for Presi∣dent of it Don Sebastian Ramirez of Fuenleal, which of a Iudge of the Chancerie of Granada, went for President of the Councell of Saint Dominicke, and Bishop of the Citie of the Concepti∣on of the Valley, a person of great Learning, Vertue, and Valour. Hee had the charge of the Go∣uernment, Iustice, and disposition of the goods Royall, the Warre remayning at the charge of the Marquesse of the Valley, with order to communicate with the President, that which apper∣tayned thereto; and betweene them was alwayes great conformitie. The bounds of this Coun∣cell, on the one side doth not comprehend that which commonly is called New Spaine, and on [ 30] the other it comprehendeth more, because the new Gallicia, which is a Councell by it selfe, is part of New Spaine.

The Prouince of Yucatan, falleth within the bounds of it, which as now it is, may haue in length about foure hundred leagues, from the furthest East of Yucatan, vnto where it parteth bounds with the Councell of new Gallozia, and North and South, about two hundred from the end of the Gouernment of Panuco vnto the South Sea, his bounds remayning open on the North side, whose principall Prouinces are the Archbishopricke of Mexico, the Bishoprickes of Mechoacan, and that of los Angelos, or Tlascala, and of Guaxaca, and of Chiapa, and the Gouern∣ments of Panuco and Yucatan, with that of Tobosco, and for circuit or commerce, the Ilands Phil∣lipinas, and the dispatch of the Nauigation of China. [ 40]

* 2.109New Spaine is one of the best Prouinces of the new World, and the most habitable in a good temper, hauing abundance and plentie of Corne, Millet, and Cattle, and all other necessaries for humane life, except Oyle and Wine, and although in many places of it there is Gold, Siluer is most generall, whereof there are many good Mynes.

The Archbishopricke of Mexico, falleth betweene the Bishopricke of los Angelos, and that of Mechoacan, it hath in length North and South, one hundred and thirtie leagues, and in breadth eighteene, which it hath by the Coast of the South Sea, vnto sixtie within the Land, wherein are included the Prouinces of Mexico, and to the North-east of it Latcotlalpa, Meztitlan, Xilote∣peque, and Panuco the most distant: and to the West, Matalzing•• neere to Mexico, and Culte∣peque the furthest off: and to the East, Tezcuco neere to Mexico: and to the South-east, Chalco, [ 50] neere to that of Mexico: and to the South of it Suchimilco, the first, and after Tlaluc, and be∣tweene South and South-west Coyxca, and Acapulco, the furthest to the South. There are no more in all but foure Townes of Spaniards,* 2.110 although in the Prouince of Mexico are many Spani∣ards dwelling in the Townes of the Indians. They called Mexico in old time, Tenoxtitlan; it stands in nineteene degrees and an halfe of altitude, and one hundred and three degrees of longitude from the Meridian of Toledo, from whence it may be distant by a direct Line, one thousand seuen hundred and fortie leagues, which are eight houres of * 2.111 Sunne: it stands in the middest of two great Lakes that doe compasse it, the one of salt water, because his bottome is Salt-petrish; the other fresh hauing fish, and voydeth into the Salt one; each is of fiue leagues in breadth, and eight in length, and both doe compasse thirtie three leagues. They goe into the Citie by three cau∣sies of halfe a league in length, and there are in it foure thousand Spaniards, and thirtie thousand [ 60] Houses of Indians or more. In the foure ancient streets wherein the Citie was diuided, in the time of their Paganisme, which at this day is called of Saint Iohn, Saint Mary the Round, Saint Paul, and Saint Sebastian; and the Tlatelulco is the principall street which they call Saint Iames.

[illustration]

[illustration] map of New Spain

HONDIVS his Map of New Spaine.

HISPANIA NOVA

[ 40] The Councell is Resident in Mexico, and the Vice-roy gouerneth in it, and three Iudges, the Officers of the Reuenue and Royall Treasure, a Founding House, and a Mint House,* 2.112 and the Archiepiscopall Metropolitane, that hath for Suffraganes the Bishoprickes of Tlascala, Guaxaca, Mechoacan, new Gallicia, Chiapa, Yucatan, Guatemala, Verapaz, and the Phillipinas. And Don Fernando Cortes was he that built this great Church, and set for Bases of the Pillars certayne I∣dols of stone which are seene to this day, and the Bishop, President and Gouernour of New Spaine, Don Sebastian Ramirez of Fuenleal, continued the building with great speed. The first Bishop of Mexico was Frier Iohn de Zumarraga of the Order of Saint Francis, of great ver∣tue and example, borne in Durango, in the Lordship of Biskeye, which also was the first Archbishop.* 2.113

[ 50] There are in Mexico Monasteries of Dominican, Franciscan, and Austine Friers, the company of Iesus, El Carmen, la Merced, the Bare-foot, and Trinitarie Friers; ten Monasteries of Nunnes, one Colledge of Indian children, and another of Arrepentidas, the Repentantes m 2.114 and n 2.115 Recogidas, or Retyred, and the Vniuersitie, where curious and learnedly the Sciences are read with other Colledges and Hospitals. And the Spaniards which inhabit the bordering Townes of the Indi∣ans, and Granges, are about three thousand, and there are reckoned about two hundred and fiftie Townes of Indians, in which the chiefe places of Doctrine are one hundred and fiue: and in them and thereabouts are six thousand Granges, more then fiue hundred thousand tributarie Indians, and more then one hundred and fiftie Monasteries of Franciscan, Dominican, and Austine Friers. And the Doctrines (or Schooles) of Priests and Friers, to teach the Faith Catholike to the Indians▪ are without number, besides the Fathers of the Company, and Mercenarie Friers: there is also Re∣sident [ 60] in Mexico, the holy Office of the Inquisition, whereof we will intreat hereafter.

In the Coast bounding on this Archbishopricke towards the South Sea, and the Prouince of Acapulco, is the good Port of Acapulco, in seuenteene degrees height, sixe leagues from the Riuer Yopes, whereby the Archbishopricke is joyned with the Bishopricke of Tlascala. And other

eight more to the West, the Riuer of Cita••a, and other foure, the Riuer of Mitla. In the Coast of the North, it hath that which falleth in the Gouernment of Tanuco. In the limits of this Coun∣cell are the Mynes of Puchuca, fourteene leagues from Mexico, and the Mynes of Tasco twentie two, those of Ysmiquilpo, which are of Lead, twentie two, the Mynes of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 twentie foure, the Mynes o•• T••••azcaltepeque eighteene, those of Cultep••qu•• 22. those of Zacualpa twen∣tie▪ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 40. those of Guanaxato sixtie, those of Commaia▪ seuen. From Guanaxuator those of Ac••••chica, eighteene from the Citie of los Angelos, and those of Ga••la, or Zumatlan, and Saint Lewes of the Peace, and in them all there may bee aboue foure thousand Spaniards, which with industrie and labour doe attend these Mynes, all of Siluer except one, which as hath beene said, is of Lead, and procuring that the Indians taking example of them, may liue poli∣tickly: [ 10] and the first that with maruellous cunning and wisdome, brought in the breedings of cat∣tell and tillages, which haue beene the mightiest meanes for the preseruation of the Mynes, was the aboue said President Don Sebastian Ramirez of Fuenleal,* 2.116 originall and the foundation of all the good of those Realmes.

The Prouince of Panuco to the North of Mexico, Nunno of Guzman had in gouernment: it hath fiftie leagues in breadth, and in length, and after it was incorporate with the limits of the Councell or Audience of Mexico. The Countrey that looketh toward New Spaine is the best, plentifull of victuals, and hath some Gold. That which runneth toward Florida is miserable, from whence till yee come to his bounds, are more then fiue hundred leagues. This gouernment hath three Spanish Townes, Panuco, in somewhat more then twentie three degrees, and by ano∣ther name the Village of Saint Stephen of the Hauen, which Gonçalo of Sandouall built, by order [ 20] of the Marquesse Don Fernando Cortes, when they went to resist Francisco Garay, and to pacifie the Indians of Chila, the yeere 1520. and it standeth sixtie fiue leagues from Mexico to the North North-east, eight leagues from the Sea, neere to a Riuer whose entry is a Hauen: it is a chiefe Alcaldia, or Iusticeship, prouided by the Vice-roy of New Spaine. The Village of Saint Iames of the Valleyes,* 2.117 twentie fiue leagues from Panuco to the West. The Village of Saint Luys de Tampico, eight leagues from Panuco to the North-east, neere to the Sea: and although in the Coast of this gouernment are many Riuers, & some rode vnto the Riuer of Palmas, they are not knowne in the Gulfe of New Spain, but the Riuer of Panuco, & his hauen, which is not very good.

* 2.118The Bishopricke of Tlascala, which by another name is called de los Angelos, betweene [ 30] the Archbishopricke of Mexico, and the Bishopricke of Guaxaca, is of 100. leagues, and more in length, from the Coast of the South to that of the North, and betwixt the confines of the Arch∣bishopricke, and of Guaxaca 80. and as many in breadth, by the Coast of the North Sea, and no more then 18. or 20. by that of the South. There is not in it all more then three Spanish Towns, which is the City or Towne of the Angels 22. leagues from Mexico to the East, somewhat in∣clining to the South, of 1500. housholds in foure streets: it is a Chiefe Iustice-ship where the Ca∣thedral Suffragane to the Archbishoprick of Mexico is Resident, with Monasteries of Dominicks, Franciscan, and Austine Friers, one of Nuns, & one Colledge of more then ••00. Indian children, to be instructed, with 10000. Pezos rent, which the Bishop Don Sebastian Ramirez built, which sent the Batchelor Salmeron Auditor of the Councell to build this City,* 2.119 and although he had de∣termined [ 40] to haue made it in Tlascala, he left it because he would not endamage the Indians, not touch their Lands; for he had a great regard in generall to the good of the Indians, and in particu∣lar for those of Tlascala, being so well deseruing of the Crowne Royall.

The Citie was built in the bounds of Cholula, from whence went 25000. men to warre, and it was seated in a Plaine called Cuetlaxcoapa, neere to a Valley called Atlisco, on the border of a small Riuer that commeth out of the d 2.120 Vulcan, where they gather Wheate, Wine, and all the Fruits of Castile, Sugar and Flaxe, and all manner of Herbs. For it is a temperate Countrey, more hot then cold, although the Corne of the grounds neerest the Citie, are somewhat blasted: and a little space from Tlascala, spring Fountaynes whence groweth a Riuer that when it commeth betweene the Citie of the Angels and Cholula, it goeth very great and without fish, it passeth through the Prouinces of Mechoacan, and entreth into the South Sea by Zacatula, and there bee [ 50] in it so many Caymanes, or Crocodiles, that they haue dispeopled some places.

In Tlascala to the North of the Angels, which stands in more then twenty degrees in height, where the Cathedrall Church was till the yeere 1550. when it was remooued to the Citie:* 2.121 the first Bishop was Frier Iulian Garces, the Valley of Atlisco, which may haue in breadth about one league and an halfe,* 2.122 where the Corne is neuer blasted, and there is gathered in it aboue 100000. Haueges, and there are more then 1000. Spaniards that do traffick in it, and 7. leagues from the Citie to the East, is the Valley of Ocumba: and in the Prouince of Tepeaca, the Mar∣quesse of the Valley built a Spanish Towne, which he called Segura: and in the Valley of S. Paul, may be other 1300. housholds of Spaniards, in Farmes and Grangeries of cattle, that multiply so much, that there were men that with two shag-haird sheepe came to haue aboue 40000. [ 60]

* 2.123The Citie of Veracruz, one way stands sixtie leagues from Mexico, and by another sixtie fiue, it stands one quarter of a league from the Sea, it is of more then two hundred Spanish houshholds. There is in it Treasurie Royall, and House of Contractation. The Port is called Saint Iohn of Vl∣ua,

a name which the Captayne Iohn Grijalua, which discouered it the yeere 1518. and the frame of the Key that it hath, the Vice-roy Don Antonie of Mendoça began. It is fiue leagues from the mouth of the Riuer of Veracruz, between the Coast and the little Iland, which is about one league in compasse, compassed with shelues, and so low that the tydes doe couer it right a∣gainst the mouth of the Riuer of Saint Iohn of Vlua. They goe into this Hauen by two Chan∣nels: the most frequented is that of the Flat, the other is called the Gallisian Channell, which is very deepe, and there the ships doe fasten themselues to a great wall of more then foure hundred foot with Rings of Iron and Brasse, and when the North winds are very strong, they are not ve∣ry sure. The Veracruz stands in eighteene degrees, somewhat more, and there was wont to be [ 10] the vnloading of the Fleets, and they stayed foure or fiue monethes in vnloading, because it stands fiue leagues from Saint Iuan of Vlua, therefore it is now made in the Port of Buytron, which is from the Port of Saint Iohn of Vlua about eight hunded paces, and it is finished in one moneth and an halfe, and it is called Buytron, by a House that was there of one called Buytron, and they begin to make a Towne there in that situation.

There are in this Bishopricke two hundred chiefe Townes of the Indians, and one thousand subiect, although there may be two hundred fiftie fiue thousand Tributarie Indians, in thirtie six charges of * 2.124 Doctrine of Priests, and thirtie Monasteries of Dominicke, Franciscan, and Au∣stine Friers: and in the Coast of this Bishopricke on the North Sea, is the Riuer of Aluarado, where the bounds of the Bishopricke of Guaxaca, and the Riuer of Almeria doe ioyne neere to [ 20] the Riuer of Saint Iohn of Vlua, where the Towne of Medellin was built by Andrew of Tapia, the yeere 1522. when the Marquesse Don Fernando Cortes sent the said Andrew of Tapia, and Gon∣çalo of Sandeuall, to conferre with Christopher of Tapia, which had Warrants to take away the Gouernment of New Spaine from the Marquesse, and the Factor Salazar, and the Ouer-seer Pe∣ralmindez dispeopled. The Riuer of Almeria springeth in the long Rowe, in the Prouinces of Totonaques, and Micantle, and betweene Mountaynes it goeth into the North Sea, and against this Riuer is the Iland of Sacrifices, which the Captayne Grijalua gaue the name vnto, and the Riuer of Zempoala to the North from Veracruz, and vpward the Riuer of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, which springeth in the same Rowe, and the Riuer of the Cazones, Tuspa, and Tamiagua, neere the Gouernment of Panuco.

[ 30]

THe Bishopricke of Guaxaca (so called by the Prouince wherein it is,* 2.125 and Antequera by the Citie where the Cathedrall is resident betweene the Bishopricke of the Angels, and the Bishoprickes of the Councell of Guatemala) is of one hundred and twentie leagues, from the one Sea to the other, by the Confines of the Bishopricke of Tlascala, and sixtie by the Confines of Chiapa, and one hundred in breadth by the Coast of the South Sea, and fiftie by the North Sea, wherein are included the Prouinces of la Misteca, high and low; the high fortie leagues from Antequera to the West, & the low more to the South Sea. Iohn Nunnez Sedenno, and Fernan∣d•• of Badaioz inhabited first the Citie of Antequera: and after the first Councell of Mexico inha∣bited it againe; the only Iudges therein were Batchelour Iohn Ortiz of Matienzo, and Delgadillo, [ 40] which was the first, that as a man of Granada, began to breed Silke in Mexico. The President and Gouernour, the Bishop Don Sebastian Ramirez, began the Cathedrall Church, the beginning of the good of those Kingdomes: the Church hath all the Pillers of Marble of one piece, very great and bigge, and the Citie hath about foure hundred Spanish Housholds.

This Valley of Guaxaca, from whence the Marquesse of the Valley taketh his Title,* 2.126 begin∣neth from the Mountayne of Cocola, in the bound of Guaxoloticlan. In it is gathered much Silke, Corne, and Millet; it hath the Zapoteca Tongue. There hath beene in it good Mynes of Gold. The situation of the Citie of Antequera (which as hath beene said) they call Guaxaca, was inha∣bited with people of Mexico, which lay in Garrison by order of the second Motezuma, and the many Garrisons that the Kings of Mexico had through their Empire made general in it the Me∣xican Tongue. The Riuer of this Citie doth sinke vnder the ground, against Cimatlan, and ri∣seth [ 50] two leagues off, at the Mountaynes of Coatlan, other two from Guaxaca; and at a halfe a league from the Citie right against a Hill that stands to the North, is a point of a little Hill, and there goeth a glade of a Valley all plaine, for the space of eight leagues, which is the abouesaid faire Valley of Guaxaca, pleasant, and temperate, and of a most healthfull Ayre,* 2.127 where plenti∣fully are gathered all kind of things, and especially fruits of Castile, most pleasant. To the South-west stands the Prouince of Tutepeque, which hath many Townes by the Sea-coast,* 2.128 and is of more then sixtie leagues: and that of the Riuer of Aluarado, betweene the North and North-east: and that of the Zapotecas to the North-east from Antequera, and Guazacoaloco in the Con∣fines of Tabasco, all rough Countrey, & notwithstanding the rich Mynes of Gold, little is gotten [ 60] because of the roughnesse. There are foure Spanish Townes. The said Citie of Antequera is eigh∣tie leagues from Mexico, to the South-east in the high way of Chiapa, and Guatemala: and the first that entred to pacifie this Prouince, was Iohn Nunnez of Mercado, the yeere 1522. by Com∣mission of Don Fernando Cortes, and from thence were men of War sent to serue the King Quan∣timoc, in the defence of Mexico, when Don Fernando Cortes subdued it.

The Treasurer Alfonso of Estrada, when he did gouerne in Mexico, inhabited the Village of Saint Alifonso de los Sapotecas,* 2.129 twentie leagues from Antequera, toward the North-east. They liue in it by Gold, Cotton-wooll, and Millet, there are aboue thirtie thousand Indians tributa∣ries. It stands betweene most high Hils. Saint Iago de Nexapa is in the Valley of Nexapa, twen∣tie leagues from Antequera to the East,* 2.130 in the way of Chiapa, and Guatemala. The Village of the Holy Ghost in the Prouince of Guazacoalco, at the Coast of the North Sea, in the Confines of Tabasco, is ninetie leagues from Antequera. Gonçalo of Sandouall inhabited it in the yeere 1522. It hath about fiftie Townes of Indians, it stands on the border of the Riuer, on the side of Chiapa: this Riuer springeth in the Mountaynes of the Mixes, and Choutales, neere to Te∣coa••tepeque, and with the waters of the Neighbour Prouinces of Chiapa, and the Choutales, it [ 10] goeth into the North Sea, there enter into it ships of one hundred tun.

* 2.131In all this Bishopricke there is no Riuer that doth not yeeld Gold, and the Indians doe liue without want if they will worke, for they lacke nothing for backe nor belly: and they haue the Cacao,* 2.132 a Fruit like Almonds, which serueth for Money, and they make Wine of it, and it is eaten tosted, and is held for a great sustenance. They are wholsome Countreyes, and plea∣sant. The Silke was before nourished by the Castilians, with the Mulberie Trees of the Coun∣trey, wherewith the Indians serued themselues, for to make Paper of the second barke: and the Spaniards haue planted so many of Castile, that they grow infinitely: and if the Indians did pay tithe of it,* 2.133 and of other things, fiue Bishoprickes might be made; but none doe pay tithe but the Castilians onely.

This Bishopricke hath three hundred and fiftie Head-townes of Indians, and in them, and in [ 20] three hundred Granges of more then an hundred & fifty thousand tributary Indians, & one hun∣dred and twentie Monasteries of Dominicke Friers, and the rest Schooles of Priests for Doctrine. The Coast of the North Sea of this B••shopricke,* 2.134 beginneth in the Riuer of Aluarado, that com∣meth from the Mountaynes of the Zapotecas, and betweene many other it goeth to the Pro∣uince of Chinautla, and crossing ouerthwart the Mountaynes whence it sprung, goeth out into the North Sea, betweene the Riuer of Guazacoalco, and Saint Iohn of Vlua, and there is also the Riuer called Agualulco, whose mouth may serue for a Hauen; and the diuided Rocke, a point of the Land that commeth from the Mountaynes of Saint Martine, named by ships that haue bin lost vpon a shoale full of Rockes vnder water, which lye along the Coast right against them in [ 30] the Coast of the South Sea. This Bishoprick hath the Hauen of Guatulco in fifteene degrees and an halfe,* 2.135 great, good, and frequented. The President Don Peter of Aluarado set this Prouince of Guatulco in obedience, and the Port of Tecoantepeque is neere, which also is reasonable; and the Towne is great, and there is in it a great fishing for Shrimps, and other fish which they carrie to Guaxaca, and in the high way of Cuyztata is a Myne of Christall-borill. Tecoantepeque is fortie fiue leagues from Antequera, they passe by the Mountaynes of the Choutales, Nixapa, and Me∣xalpeque, whitherto this Bishopricke extendeth, and hath many Townes subiect by the Coast of the Sea.

The Bishopricke of Mechoacan (which is a Prouince betweene the Archbishopricke of Me∣xico,* 2.136 and the new Galicia) hath in breadth by the Coast of the South Sea, about eightie leagues, and sixtie within the Land, with open bounds, by the Septen••rionall parts: in it are included [ 40] the Prouinces of Zacatula, and of Colima, both in the Coast of the South Sea. The Citie of Mechoacan,* 2.137 or Pazcuaro, in little more then nineteene degrees, and fortie seuen leagues from Mexico, of plaine way. In Guayangar••o called Vallodolid, is Resident the Cathedrall Suffragane to Mexico, with two Monasteries of Franciscans, and Austine Friers. The Master of the field Christopher of Olid built Mechoacan, the Cathedrall was first Resident in Zinzonza, vnto the yeere 1544. that he remoued it to Pazcuaro.* 2.138 The Bishop was Don Basco de Quiroga; and it hath one Monasterie of Franciscan, another of Austine Friers, and it stands seuen leagues from Me∣choacan, to the East.

The Mynes of Guauax••ato, are twentie eight leagues from Mechoacan, to the North, to∣ward the Zacateca••,* 2.139 wherein there are about sixe hundred Castilians, in two Campes * 2.140 which [ 50] they haue with their chiefe Alcade or Commissioner, and the seate and dwelling of those that follow the Mynes is a Reall or Campe. The Village of Saint Michaell, in the Prouince of Me∣choacan, is thirtie fiue leagues from Pazcuaro, to the North-east, in a rough Countrey. And the Village of the Conception of Salaya, which was built by commandement of the Vice-roy, Don Martin Enriquez, the yeere 1570. for ••o assure the way of the Chichimecas. The Village of Saint Philip fiftie leagues off Mechoacan, toward the North, and sixtie two from Mexico to the North-west,* 2.141 with one Monasterie of Austine Friers, in a barren soyle and cold; it was built for the securitie of the way of the Zacatecas.

* 2.142The Prouince and Village of Zacatula, in the Coast of the South Sea, stands in more then 18. de∣grees, [ 60] and fortie leagues from Mechoacan, to the South-west, neere the Sea; Iohn Rodriguez of Vil∣lauorte, and Sino•• of Cuenca, built it the yeare 1523. it stands ninetie leagues from Mexico, and ••he Prouince and Village of Colima,* 2.143 in little more then 18. degrees, in the Coast of the South Sea, and in the confines of new Galicia, fiftie leagues from Mechoacan, to the South-west, with a

chiefe Commissioner, in a hot soyle, and plentifull of Cacao, and Cassia Fistola, with Gould, and well conditioned people. Gonçalo of Sandoual built it in the yeare 1522. All the Countrie of Mechoacan is most plentifull of Wheate, Millet, and all kinde of Spanish Fruites, and Cat∣tle, stored of Fish: it hath Graine, Cochinilla, and Cotten wooll, and the people is industrious, and giuen to labour.

There are in this Bishopricke one hundred and thirtie Townes, the nintie foure head Townes with Schooles of Doctrine: this Bishopricke reacheth no Coast of the Sea of the North, in the South Sea are many Riuers, and in the furthest West of the Prouince, almost in the border of the new Galicia, is the port of Nauidad, in the height of 19. degrees, good and frequented, from whence the Nauigation is made to the Phillipinas; and more to the East, neere the Port of Saint [ 10] Iames: there are very good Copper Mines in these bounds, of the which the Indians make very curious Vessels, for it is pleasant, and other so hard that they digge the ground with it instead of Iron, which they could neuer doe till the Spaniards taught it.

The Prouince and Gouernment of Yucatan (which tooke this name when the Captaine Fran∣ciscus Fernandez discouered it, and our Ladie of the Remedies,* 2.144 when Iohn of Grijalua discouered Cozumel) was at the first held for an Iland, because it was almost compassed with Sea, in sort that it may be called Peninsula, and it compasseth more then two hundred and fiftie leagues: it is in length where it extends it selfe East and West, about one hundred leagues, and as many North and South, from the Coast that looketh to the North, vnto the part that doth confine with the Prouinces of Guatemala, whereby it hath ouertwhart about fiue and twentie leagues.* 2.145 The tem∣perature [ 20] is hot, and very moist, and though there be no Riuer, nor running water in it all, the wa∣ter is so neare for Wels, and they finde so many shels of Sea-fish vnder the stones, that this, and the Coast being so low, hath giuen occasion to suspect that it hath beene Sea in other times: it is much compassed with Wood: they gather no Corne, nor seedes of Castile, there is no Gould, nor any other kinde of Mettall, whence is knowne the inuention (or deceit) of those which said that there were found in this Prouince, when the Spaniard entred in it, Crosses of Latten, which was neuer found in any Prouince of the Indies: it is very plentifull of game, especially wilde Boares and Deere, they breede vp in it great store of Poultrie: they gather much Cotten wooll, and Azure, the people multiplieth and liueth long; a man there was which attained to three hun∣dred yeares: it hath all the kinde of Cattle of Spaine, and good Horses.

[ 30] There are in this Gouernment without that of Tabasco, which goeth ioyntly with it, foure Spanish Townes, and one Bishopricke: and the Townes are buildings of the first Gouernour, the President Don Francisco of Monteio. The Citie of Merida is in twentie degrees height,* 2.146 almost in the middest of the Prouince, neerer to the coast of the North Sea, twelue leagues within the Land. In it are resident the Gouernour, the Officers of Reuenues, and treasure Royall, and the Cathedrall suffragane to Mexico, with a Monasterie of Franciscane Fryers, they called it Merida, for the great and auncient buildings that it hath like Merida in Castile▪ and it causeth admiration, that hauing no kinde of Mettall in this Prouince, so great Stones could be wrought, in the which were found engrauen naked men, with eare-rings, whereof is inferred that they were Temples, [ 40] and that it was a very famous Countrie.* 2.147 The Village of Valladolid is thirtie one leagues from Me∣rida, toward the South-east with a most sumptuous Monasterie of Franciscan Fryers, and 15000. tributarie Indians in the limits. The Village and port of Saint Franciscus of Campeche,* 2.148 in 20. de∣grees, in the Coast that looketh to new Spaine, about fiftie leagues from Merida to the West, de∣clining to the South, it hath a reasonable Hauen, though little depth for being a Bay. Don Fran∣ciscu•• of Monteio gaue it the name.* 2.149 The Village of Salamanca the President called so by his owne Countrie. In the Prouinces of Bacalar, and Chetemal, seuentie leagues from Merida, North and South, leauing to the West, and other seuentie from Valladolid, neere to the Coast of the gulfe of Honduras: there are in this Prouince Monasteries of Franciscanes, and six Schooles of Priests for Doctrine.

[ 50] The Coast of all this Prouince is so shallow,* 2.150 that in few parts ye can ride at anker at lesse then foure or fiue leagues from the Land, and so there is no Port but for small Shippes, and it floweth and ebbeth more in this Coast then in any other place of these Prouinces of new Spaine. The Ports that are, be these: Ciclo, and Telichaque, Cical and Cauquil: the Riuer with two mouthes, Campeche in the Coast that looketh to new Spaine, and in it the small Cape from whence the Coast beginneth to winde to the East, and neere to the Point a little Iland which is called la Desconocida or the Vnthankefull, compassed with shelues: and to the West from this, about eigh∣teene leagues, another which they call the Zarza, and the Triangle, which are three small Ilands, close by another little Iland compassed with shelues, other sixteene leagues from a 2.151 Cabo Delgado, Ilands de Arenas (of Sandes) and the Redde (la Bermeia) and another Iland thirtie leagues [ 60] from the said Cape to the North, and los Negrillos, three little Ilets compassed with shelues, to the East from the b 2.152 Redde, about thirtie fiue leagues, and the c 2.153 Scorpiones twentie leagues of the coast North and South, with Merida, and the Cape of Coutoche, the Point most to the East of Yucatan, from whence goe foure little Ilands, which are called de Mugeres of Women, leaning to the Coast in the which is the Iland of Cozumel, named by the famous Idoll Place in it, whither

all the people of the Prouince went in Pilgrimage; it stands foure leagues to the Sea, at the be∣ginning of the Gulfe of Honduras,* 2.154 almost North and South with Valladolid, more inward to the Gulfe, other three little Ilets with shelues, almost ouer against the Lake of Bacalal, which is with∣in the Land thirtie leagues from the Lake of Chetemall, in the Coast that goeth painted with I∣lands vnto Salamanca, which is the first Pantoia, neere one shelfe called * 2.155 Quitasuenno, and another Zaratan, and another Lamanay, and the last Ylbob.

* 2.156The Prouince of Tabasco, which goeth with the Gouernment of Yucatan, and falleth vpon the Coast of the North Sea in the gulfe of new Spaine, hath in length East and West, about fortie leagues, from the confines of Yucatan, vnto the confines of Goazacoalco, wherewith it ioyneth [ 10] on the East, and as much North and South from the North Sea, vnto the confines of Chiapa. It is all plaine ground of Marshes, Lakes and Quagmires, and so they goe ouer it in Boates, and Ca∣noes; it is very moist, and hot, and therefore very plentifull of Pastures for Kine, and of Millet and Cacao, which is the greatest stocke or substance of this Prouince, wherein is onely one Town, which is Tabasco, and by another name, the Village of our Lady of the Victorie, so called for the Victory that Don Hernando Cortez had there of the Indians, when hee went to new Spaine, the yeare 1519. The tribute which the Indians doe pay in this Prouince, is two thousand Xi∣quipiles of Cacao, and euery Xiquipill are eight thousand Almonds, and one load maketh three Xiquipiles or Terces. In the Coast of this Prouince besides other Riuers and Marishes, is found the Lake of Xicalango,* 2.157 or Port Royall, great and capable, with two little Ilands at the mouth, and it was the Captaine Lewis Martin, that by order of Don Fernando Cortes, made an end of pa∣cifying [ 20] this Prouince.

THe bounds of the Counsell of new Gallicia or of Xalisco (which Nunno of Guzman said hee had discouered,* 2.158 and Don Fernando Cortes, that the Captaine Goncalo of Sandouall, did it in his name, when hee sent him to pacifie the Colimas) it parteth, bounds with the Counsell of new Spaine, neere by the Port of the Natiuitie, and the Lake of Chiapa∣la, going toward the North-east, whereby (and by the North, and somewhat of the West, for it is not all discouered) it hath the bounds open, for the rest to the West is all Sea: that which is inhabited on the one side, and the other, may come to one hundred leagues, wherein are comprehended the Prouinces of Guadalaiara, Xalisco, the Zacatecas, Chiametla, Culi∣acan, [ 30] the new Bizkey, and Cinoloa; and for Circuit the discouerie of the Prouinces of Cibola, and of Quibira.

The temperature of the Prouince, and borders of Guadalaiara, is good, and the Countrie plen∣tifull of Corne,* 2.159 and Millet, and other Seedes of Spaine, and many Vaines of Siluer: there are in it Spanish Townes. Nunno of Guzman peopled the Citie of Guadalaiara, the head of this Kingdome, the yeare 1531. and gaue it the name of his Countrie: it stands in 106. degrees and a halfe of longitude from the Meridian of Toledo, 1780. leagues by a direct Voyage, & in 20. degrees one third part in height, eightie seuen leagues from Mexico, betweene the North and the West, more toward the West: in it is resident the Counsell, the Officers of the reuenues, & Royall trea∣surie, and the Cathedrall suffragan to Mexico, since the yeare 1570. for before it was commanded [ 40] to be built in Compostella: it hath one Monasterie of Franciscan, another of Austine Friers. Nunno of Guzman built also the Village of the Holy Ghost in Tepique:* 2.160 and the Village of Sancta Marie of the Lakes, stands thirtie leagues from Guadalaiara to the South-east, with the chiefe Com∣missioner. It was built for to be sure of the Chichimecan Indies, that are in Countries between the North and the East,* 2.161 a barbarous people, which liue scattered in the field, without any taste of hu∣manitie or policie, liuing in Canes, & in the Groues like sauage beasts; they liue vpon wilde chase and fruits, they know no riches, nor pleasure; they goe naked, and some couered with Beasts skins: their weapons are Bowes and Arrowes, they are well bodied, great eaters, they make wine of cer∣taine rootes wherewith they drinke themselues drunke.

In the Prouince of Xalisco, which is plentifull of Millet, more then of Sheepe, or Horses, there [ 50] is onely the Citie of Compostella neere the Sea,* 2.162 three and thirtie leagues from Guadalaxara, to the West, where the Counsell was at the first, and commanded to build the Cathedrall, vntill the yeare 1560. that they remoued to Guadalaiara to be more in the borders: there is in it a Mo∣nasterie of Franciscan Friers; and it was also inhabited by Nunno Guzman, the yeare 1531. which trauelled two yeares in these Countries, which they called the greater Spaine, in emu∣lation of Don Fernando Cartes, in all that time nothing being knowne of him in Mexico. The Village of the Purification, to the South-west, from Guadalaiara, and thirtie leagues from it, neere the port of the Natiuitie, in the confines of the bounds of this Counsell, and of that of Mexico, in a very hot and sickly Countrie: and vnto the end of the yeare 1531. Nunno of Guzman discouered one hundred and fiftie leagues of Land by the Coast of Xalisco, which stand [ 60] in somewhat more then 22. degrees.

* 2.163In the Prouince of the Zacatecas, are rich mines of Siluer, and want of Water, Corne and Millet: there are three Townes of Spaniards, and foure Camps appointed of mines: those which they call of the Zacatecas are the principall, fortie leagues from Guadalaxara to the North, and

eightie from Mexico, wherein are ordinarie more then fiue hundred Spaniards, fiue hundred Slaues, one thousand Horses and Mules, and one Monasterie of Franciscane Fryers; and there is resi∣dent alwayes one of the Officers Royall of Guadalaiara. In this Prouince also are the Mines of Auinyo, in the confines of the Zacatecas, and those of Saint Martin seuen and twentie leagues from the Zacatecas, to the North-west, wherein are wont to be about foure hundred Spaniards, and Xerez of the Frontier, thirtie leagues from Guadalaxara, to the North, and tenne from the mines of the Zacatecas, in the way to them. There are besides these other Reales or Campes, whereof no mention is made▪ because they are so famous. The Village of the Erena,* 2.164 & the Mines called of the little * 2.165 Hat, are fiue and twenty leagues from Zacatecas to the North-west, neere to those of Saint Martin, and others that are in the limits. The Village of * 2.166 Nombre de Dios, is sixtie [ 10] eight leagues from the Citie of Guadalaiara, and tenne from the Mines of Saint Martin to the North, with a Monasterie of Franciscan Friers, aboundant in Corne, and Millet, and good Mines in his Borders. The Village of Durango, in the Borders of the Mines of Saint Martin, and the Val∣ley of Saint Saluador, eight leagues from Nombre de Dios, a wholesome Countrie, & many Riuers, with whose watering they gathered great store of Corne, and Millet, and of other Prouisions, and in the Borders are the Mines of Saint Luke, and a very good Salt-pit. And the Indians of this Kingdome in many places were in armes, and the Chichimecas, and Guachachiles did great hurt in the way of Guadalaiara to the Zacatecas, and this warre was very costly, and tedious, and was ended, the Marquesse of Villamanrique being Viceroy. The Indians are diuided in this precinct in one hundred and foure partitions or tribes.

[ 20] The Prouince of new Bizkie, is North-westward from the Zacatecas fiftie leagues from them;* 2.167 a Countrie of Prouisions, and much Cattell, and of good Siluer Mines, the Mines of Hindehe are in it, of Sancta Barbola, and of Saint Iohn, and in it is the Prouince of Topia; and in this discouery, and inhabiting, Franciscus Ybarra did many seruices. The Prouince of Chiametla,* 2.168 twenty leagues broad and long, in the Coast of the South Sea, about fortie leagues from Xalisco, hath Mines of Siluer, and in it stands Saint Sebastian, a Village of Spaniards, which was first of the Counsell of Mexico, and it stands in more then 22. degrees. Culiacan is a gouernment in the South Sea, more to the East, and West from Chiametla; it is a plentifull Countrie of Victuals, and showes of Siluer Mines, whereof there is a Campe peopled, which they call of the Virgins.* 2.169 The Village of Saint Mi∣chael, eightie leagues from Compostella, and one hundred and three from Guadalaiara, Nunno of [ 30] Guzman inhabited it the yeare 1531.

The Prouince of Civaloa, the last, and most Septentrionall of the new Kingdome of Galicia,* 2.170 two and fortie leagues from Culiacan, one hundred and fiftie from Guadalaiara, to the North, was a Towne built in it that was called Saint Iohn of Cinaloa, of Spaniards, and could not be kept. This Prouince was discouered, Don Antonie of Mendoca being Viceroy in new Spaine, and they said there was a Citie seene wrought with stone, which they called Granada, and that those In∣dians were warriers, and that in the Countrie was great store of Victuals. Quibira,* 2.171 stands in fortie degrees, of a temperate and fruitfull soyle. Cibola, stands thirtie leagues from Culiacan, toward the North, and Quibira two hundred from Cibola to the East; it is all of poore peo∣ple; for that they haue no Cotten, they weare Deere skinnes, and of the Countrie Kine, [ 40] which haue a lumpe on the ridge of the backe, and long haire in the fore parts, the hornes lesser then ours; and in them consisteth the greatest part of the sustenance of the people, for of the skinne they cloathe, and make Shooes, and Cords; they eate the flesh, and make tooles of the bones: they haue sundry languages in this Prouince, because they communicate little the one with the other.

California is a great point of the Land that putteth out to the Sea in the vttermost West of new Spaine in two and twentie degrees height, from whence it extendeth to the North-west,* 2.172 neere about two hundred leagues, although of it there is no certaine notice, nor of the Ports, and Ilands of the Gulfe California, which is made betweene the said point, and Gulfe of new [ 50] Spaine, which goeth along that way, as to the North-west; in the which although there be many Riuers, Capes, and Points, and landing-places, there is no particular notice had of them, because they are not much frequented. At the beginning, and entrance of this Gulfe are very long and narrow Ilands along the Coast, and very close with it, which is called the Guayauall, that reacheth from the Riuer of our Ladie, or of Sebastian of Bora, vnto the Riuer of Christmas in Culiacan. The Riuer of the Village of Saint Michael is called Ciguatlan; and neerer to new Spaine is the Riuer of Pastla, and against it the Desart Iland, and afterward the Riuer of the Holy Ghost, and the port of Xalisco, and to the South of the point of California, is Annublada or the Cloudie Iland, and the Iland of Saint Thomas, and the Iland of Flores, and another which is called Las Monias.

[ 60]

IT was first called the Counsell of Guatemala of the confines,* 2.173 because it was commanded first to be built in the confines of the Prouinces of Nicaragua, and Guatemala, without assigning any certaine Towne. It hath in length East and West two hundred and fortie leagues, and from the Meridian from 84. to 98. of longitude, and North and South, in breadth one hundred and eigh∣tie,

from 9. to 10. degrees of height, vnto eighteene or nineteene, in the which are comprehel∣ded the Prouinces of Guatemala, Soconusco, Chiapa, Suchitepeque, the a 2.174 Verapaz, Honduras and Ca∣cos, Saint Sauiour, and Saint Michael, Nicaragua, Chuluteca, Taguzgalpa, and b 2.175 Costarica▪ and in euery one of these Prouinces they alter in speech: and according to the opinion of Religious men, it was the worke of the Diuell, for to plant dissentions and discord betweene these Nati∣ons which were bloody and reuengefull. The Gouernment and Prouince of Guatemala on the South Sea coast,* 2.176 in length of it may be about seuentie leagues, and in breadth North and South thirtie: it is a Countrie of a good temperature, plentifull of Millet, Cotten wooll, Corne and other fruits, though they preserue not the Seede of one yeare for the other: the waters are few, [ 10] but when it raineth they are very violent from Aprill to October, the windes are North and South, and the North lasteth but fifteene or twentie dayes, and it is very cold, and furious. There are in it fiue Spanish Townes, buildings of the President Don Pedro of Aluarado, in the yeare 1524. and 25.* 2.177 The Citie of Saint Iames of Guatemala, whose situation was called Cachequill, which signifieth an Eagle, because the Generall of this Nation, when hee went to warre, did beare an Eagle for his Plume: it is the head of the Gouernment, where the Counsell is resident, in 24. degrees and a halfe of height, and 93. degr. from the Meridian of Toledo, from whence it may bee distant by a greater circle of one thousand sixe hundred and sixtie leagues, and it is twelue from the Sea, and a towne of sixe hundred Spanish housholds: the Officers of the goods and Roy∣all Treasure, are resident there, the melting house, and the Cathedrall Suffragane to Mexico, with one Monasterie of Dominicans, and another of Mercenarie Friars, and one Hospitall, and [ 20] in the bounds fiue and twentie thousand tributarie Indians. This Citie is seated in a very plea∣sant Valley, with fruits of diuers sorts, and all kinde of prouision and dainties.

* 2.178The Citie of Saint Sauiour, which in the Indian language is called Cuzcatlan, is fortie leagues from Saint Iames to the South-east, with one Monasterie of Dominicans. The Village of the Tri∣nitie,* 2.179 which in the Indian tongue was called Conzonate, sixe and twentie leagues from Saint Iames to the South-west, foure leagues from the Port of Axacutla. It is a chiefe Commissionership with title of his Maiestie, with one Monasterie of Dominicans, in a plentifull soile of Cacao, and the Indians of it are of the iurisdiction of Saint Iames, it is a place of great trafficke, and the Port a touch for the ships of Peru,* 2.180 and of New Spaine. The Village of Saint Michael sixtie two leagues from Saint Iames, and two and twentie from Saint Sauiour to the South-west, two leagues from [ 30] the Sea and Bay of Fonseca, which serueth it for Hauen, and in the bounds are eightie Townes of Indians.* 2.181 The Village of Xerez of the frontier, in the Indian speech called Chuluteca, in the confines of Guatemala and Nicaragua, eightie leagues from Saint Iames, and twentie from Saint Michael to the South-east, both plentifull of Cotton wooll and Millet. Neere the Citie of Saint Iames is that * 2.182 Volcan so famous of Guatemala, and in all the Indies are many of these Volcanes (but the most famous are those of Guatemala, which hath burst out diuers times, casting fire, stones, and ashes, with great hurt of the Countrie.) That of Arequipa, of Tlascala, Quito, and others. In this Countrie are many springs of water, hot, and of sundrie properties and colours; there is much and good Balme, which the Spaniards knew without learning it of the Indians, against the which some Author speaketh, and also liquid Amber, Gumme-anime, Copall, and Suchicopall, [ 40] and other Gummes, and Liquoris most perfect, and beasts that breed the Bezar stone, they gather great store of Cacao, which is great riches: it is a meane Tree, the leaues like a Chesnut though bigger,* 2.183 it giueth flower and fruit euery Moone, and the same doe in that Countrie the Orange trees. The Cacao is a tree that loueth moisture better then the Sunne, and therefore they plant neere him another tree to shadow him.

The Ports of this Gouernment in the South Sea, beside the rehearsed, are the Bay of Fonseca neere to Saint Michael,* 2.184 in twelue degrees and a halfe of height, Gil Gonçales of Auila gaue it the name in the yeere 1522. for the Bishop Iohn Rodrigues of Fonseca, President of the Councell of the Indies. And within the Bay is an Iland which he named Petronilla, by a Neece of the Bishop. The Port of Acaxutla, neere to the Trinitie, in twelue degrees height, is the best of this Gouern∣ment [ 50] for New Spaine and Peru, and the Bay of Guatemala twelue leagues from it, and the Riuer of Xicalapa seuen leagues from the Bay to the West. On the North side this Prouince hath no coast, for it commeth not to the Sea by fortie leagues, vnto a landing place which they call the Port of the fresh Gulfe, from whence the merchandize that goe from Spaine, are conueighed by the Gulfe of Honduras, into the Land with carriages vnto Guatemala, Saint Sauiour, and the Trini∣tie, and twelue leagues before Guatemala, in the high way of Mexico, is the great Lake of Atu∣lau,* 2.185 of ten leagues in compasse, and foure in breadth, without bottom.

The Prouince and Gouernment of Soconusco is the furthest West from Guatemala vpon the coast of the South Sea, of length and breadth about foure and thirtie leagues, plentifull of Cacao (the greatest trafficke of it, and of all that in it is sowne except Wheat) there is no more then one Spanish towne, which is called Guencolan, founded by Don Pedro de Aluarado, where the Gouer∣nour [ 60] is resident; her coast which is in the South Sea, beginneth seuen leagues from the Riuer of Ayutla to the West, and presently the Riuers Coatlan, Capanercalte, Colatl, Haztatlan, Amituc, and Quizatatlan.

The Prouince and Bishoprick of Chiapa is Mediterranean, betweene Soconusco by the South,* 2.186 and the vttermost of New Spaine by the West, and by the North and the East, betweene Tabas∣co an•• * 2.187 Verapaz, in length East and West about fortie leagues, and some lesse in breadth, some lesse fertile of Wheat and Millet, and other Seedes, and of Cattell, except Sheepe that are not many. It hath one Towne of Castilians, which is called Citie Royall, seuentie leagues from Saint Iames of Guatemala toward the North-east, which by a particular priuiledge is gouerned by or∣dinarie Iustices. The Cathedrall is resident here with one Monasterie of Dominicke Friars, and many Indian Townes in her limits: Chiapa is the principallest Towne of them, from whence the Prouince tooke the name. The Countrie-men haue skill in breeding of Horses, that those of this [ 10] Countrie become the best that are in New Spaine: they are Musicians and Painters, and learne a∣ny Trade that doth consist in arte: they were in old time of Nicaragua, and the Captaine Iames of Mazariegos, the yeere 1531. built this Citie in a Valley where now it stands, round, of a mar∣uellous situation in 18. degrees and a halfe, sixtie leagues from the North Sea, and as many from the South.

The Prouince of Verapaz (a name which the Dominicke Friars gaue it,* 2.188 because they pacified it with preaching) is also Mediterranean betweene the bounds of Soconusco, Chiapa, Yacatan, Honduras, and Guatemala, of thirty leagues ouer, and as many from Saint Iames of Guatemala; a moist Countrie, and therefore the better for the Millet that in it is gathered twice a yeere, and for Wheat. There is Cotton wooll, and some Cacao, and much Fowle of those that giue the co∣loured [ 20] feathers for the pictures which the Indians doe make,* 2.189 which is a merchandize of this Pro∣uince, and the Kings of Mexico carried them from this Prouince, which was the most esteemed thing they had, and it was iudged for a great sinne to kill these Fowles, but to plucke them and to let them flie. There is in this Countrie but one Monasterie of Dominicke Friars, with one Indian Towne of seuenteene Indian children that are there, by order of the religious men for to instruct them the better; for before they liued scattered and like sauages, and now they liue like Christi∣ans, and in temporall things politikely.

In this Prouince there is no Gouernour, but a chiefe Iustice, prouided by the Councell. The Riuer of Zacatula diuideth this Prouince from the Prouince of Guatemala, from the which it ex∣tendeth vnto the fresh Gulfe, whither all the Riuers of it doe runne, whereby and by the many [ 30] falls of waters that descend from most high Hils, the Countrie was so moist, that the Millet rot∣ted; but it is bettered in the temperature, since the cutting downe of the Woods: it hath many Lions, Tigres, and Buffes, whose flesh the Indians doe eate although it be luscious and soft; it is called the Fresh Gulfe, for the multitude of the Riuers which on that side doe enter into the Sea.* 2.190 The water is fresh, and there are exceeding great Fishes, and specially the Manati, which is the Sea calfe, which swimmeth so delicately, that being very great he maketh no noyse;* 2.191 when hee fleeth he goeth to the Deepe, and waxeth angrie and fierce against them that seeke him, and gi∣ueth great strokes; his flesh is very fat like vnto fat beefe.

THe Prouince and Gouernment of Honduras hath in length East and West,* 2.192 by the coast of the [ 40] North Sea, more then one hundred and fiftie leagues, and in bredth from the Sea vnto the bounds of Costa Rica and Guatemala, in parts eightie: it hath many Hills, and is plentifull of Millet, Wheat, and all sorts of Cattell, and some Mynes of gold and siluer: there is in it sixe Spa∣nish Townes in one Bishopricke, and the first Bishop was Friar Iohn of Talauera, Prior of Prado, of the Order of Saint Ierome of Spaine.

The Citie of Valladolid, in the Indian language, is called Comayagua, in more then sixteene de∣grees, stands sixtie leagues from Saint Iames of Guatemala to the East, and about fortie from the North Sea: in it is the Gouernour resident, and the Cathedrall, since the yeere 1558. when it went from Truxillo, whereat first it was; and one Monasterie de la Merced. The Captaine A∣lonso of Cacere•• pacified this Countrie, by order of Don Peter of Aluarado:* 2.193 it stands in the mid∣dest [ 50] of the two Seas, and from the one to the other are three and fiftie leagues, from the Port de Cauallos or of Horses in the North Sea, vnto the Bay of Fonseca in the South Sea, and the Inginer Baptista Antoneli visited this way, by order from the King; because many thought that by it the trafficke of the North Sea was more easie to the South Sea, and hee found that it had many in∣conueniences.

The Citie of * 2.194 Gracias à Dios, is thirtie leagues from Valladolid almost to the West; the Captaine Gabriel of Rojas peopled it 1530. for the benefit of the Mynes of gold that were there∣abouts, and had great encounters with the Indians, which assaulted him many times in a Fort that he had. But the Gouernours of Honduras and Nicaragua, not succouring him by reason of grud∣ges betweene them, hee was forced to forsake it. And in the yeere 1536. Captaine Gonçalo of [ 60] Aluarado, inhabited this Citie againe. The Village of Saint Petro is thirtie leagues from Co∣mayagua to the North, somewhat aside to the West, and eleuen from the Port of Cauallos,* 2.195 where the Officers Royall are resident, because the Port of Cauallos is sickly, whither the dispatches of the ships doe come. The President Don Peter Aluarado built it 1536.

The Village of Saint Iohn of the Port de Cauallos is in 15. degrees of altitude,* 2.196 eleuen leagues

from Saint Peter, foure from Comayagua, it is inhabited with Factors of the Merchants, and with Black-moores, because it is an vnwholsome Port; for although it be a Bay, it is a good one, it was called the Port of The Horses, because some were cast in the Sea by a storme. The Citie of Truxillo is sixtie leagues from Comayagua to the North-east,* 2.197 and fortie from the Port of Horses to the East, and one from the North Sea: the Cathedrall was here, the Hauen is called Saint Gil, it is good, though it be a Bay dead and sheltered, where the ships that goe for Guatemala doe touch first. Francisco de las Casas, began to inhabit this Citie 1524. and because they were all people of Estremadura, he called it Truxillo, and Don Hernando Cortes ended the inhabiting of it when he went to the Ybueras.* 2.198 The Village of Saint George of Olancho, is fortie leagues from Comayagua to the East, of fortie housholds, and in her borders sixteene thousand tributarie Indians, and much gold,* 2.199 chiefly in the Riuer of Guayape, ten leagues from this Towne. This Valley of Olan∣cho [ 10] is very pleasant and profitable, and in it was much gold gotten, and the Gouernours of Hon∣duras and Nicaragua, had in other times great differences: for euery one would haue it in his iu∣risdiction, and therefore here it was where Gil Gonçales Dauila tooke one hundred and twentie thousand Pesos of gold of Hernando of Soto, and dismissed the people which Pedrarias Dauila had for his defence; and here Gabriel of Rojas defended the entrance of Gonçalo of Sandoual, for Don Hernando Cortes did send him from Truxillo, and here the Indians killed Iohn Grijalua, a very famous Captaine, and others.

* 2.200The coast of this Prouince is all in the North Sea, in the Gulfe which they call de Honduras, which is all the Sea coast betweene this Prouince and Yucatun, to the place where it ioyneth with it by Verapaz, where it was called the Gulfe of Guanajos, the first Point is of the Ybueras, so [ 20] called, because they first found many pompions on the Sea, which they call Ybueras in the lan∣guage of Hispaniola; it stands in sixteene degrees of height. Neere to the Fresh Gulfe a Port for Guatemala, where Saint Gil of Bonauista was built, neere to the Cape of Three Points to the East from the Fresh Gulfe, and Gil Gonçales Dauila peopled it 1524. And more to the East is the Riuer Piche, and Rio Baxo, and the Riuer of Vlua, by another name Balahama before the Port of Horses, which stands in fifteene degrees. And afterward the Riuer and Point de la Sal, and Tri∣umpho de la Cruz, a Cape of three points, where the yeere 1524. the Master of the field Christo∣pher of Olid planted; and the Riuer Hulma or of Xagua, and to the North of his mouth the I∣land of Vtila; and to the North-east, Guayana, Helen, and Guanaja, and Saint Francise North [ 30] and South with the Point of Truxillo, which are the Ilands of the Guanajos. The said Point is called by another name, Cabo Delgado, the Small Cape, or of Honduras, from whence to the Cape of * 2.201 Camaron, in search whereof they goe from Iamayca, are thirteene Riuers, and at the Point of the Cape a plazell or great shelfe of more then twentie leagues into the Sea, and in the middest of it neere to the Coast a great Iland, which is called the Iland de los Baxos (of the shelues) and an∣other to the North, neere the shelfe called Saint Millan, and hauing passed the shelfe, the Bay of Cartago,* 2.202 and the Deepe Bay, before the Cape of thanks be to God, which stands in fourteen degrees one third part, and to the North of it three Ilands, which they call the Viciosas, and Quita suenno or Take away sleepe, and Roncador, the Suorter, two dangerous shelues, and hauing passed the Cape, the Gulfe of Nicuesa, where hee was lost in the yeere 1510. and the Riuer of Yare in thirteene [ 40] degrees, where the Gouernments of Honduras and Nicaragua are ioyned.

The Ilands of the Guanajos, which are the rehearsed, the first Admirall Don Christopher Colon discouered 1502. in the last voyage he made to the Indios, when he discouered Terra firme in the coast of Veragua, where his ill lucke appeared; for if as he went to Veragua, hee had gone to the other side, he had discouered New Spaine.

* 2.203The Prouince and Gouernment of Nicaragua, which the Gouernour Iames Lopez of Salzedo, called the New Kingdome of Lion, on the West ioyneth with Guatemala, and on the North with Honduras, and on the South with * 2.204 Costa Rica. It is of one hundred and fiftie leagues East and West, and eightie North and South, a plentifull Countrie of Millet, Cacao, Cotton wooll, store of Cattell, without Corne or Sheepe, it hath fiue Spanish Townes. Lion of Nicaragua is one hun∣dred [ 50] and foure leagues from Saint Iames of Guatemala about the South-east, and twelue from the South Sea, neere to the great Lake of Nicaragua, where the Gouernour is residen••, the Royall Officers, and the Cathedrall, and Iames Aluarez Ossorio was the first Bishop. It hath fiue Mona∣steries of Mercenaries, and in her bounds one hundred and twentie thousand tributarie Indians. The Citie of Granada is sixteene leagues from Lion,* 2.205 which and Lion were built by the Captaine Franciscus Hernandez▪ 1523. and Granada stands by the border of the great Lake, and foure and twentie leagues from the Port of Realeio, besides the great Lake, stands the Lake of Lindiri, and the famous Vulcan or Fierie mouth of Massayatan.* 2.206 The great Lake ebbeth and floweth, it hath many Ilands, it runneth into the North Sea, by the Riuer which is called El Desaguadero, or The Voyding, it hath great store of Fish and many Lizards. At two leagues from it, and seuen from Gra∣nada is the great fierie mouth of Mombacho, very high with many Groues of diuers fruits, of [ 60] which much refresh the Countrie. A Friar perswading himselfe▪ that that masse of fire that in so many yeeres burned without consuming within the mouth of Massaya was gold, hauing made by a certaine arte certaine Cauldrons with their chaines to draw it, they scarcely came at the fire, when the Cauldron and the Chaine were melted like Lead.

The new Segouia which was the beginning of Peter Arias his plantation▪* 2.207 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thirtie leagues from Lion to the North, and as many from Granada, some what Northward also, in which limits much gold is gotten. And Iaen a Citie is thirtie leagues from the North Sea,* 2.208 in the end of the great Lake, whereby the Riuer which they call the Voyding, and the merchandize which are car∣ried from Nombre de Dios, and now from Porte bello, are conuayed in it. The Village of Realejo one league from the Port of the Possession, which commonly is called of the Realejo,* 2.209 stands in e∣leuen degrees and a halfe, and is one of the best Ports and surest in all that Coast, wherein are made good ships by reason of the good prouision of Timber there.

There are in this Gouernment many Townes of Indians, and in them store of tributaries, and [ 10] in the Confines of this Gouernment, and of Costa Rica, and of Nicoya eight and fortie leagues from Granada, in the South coast, is a Corregidorship; in which, and in the Iland of Chyra, which is of the iurisdiction thereof eight leagues to the Sea, are many tributarie Indians of the Crowne Royall, subiect in other times to the Councell of Panama, vnto the yeere 1573. at which time it was incorporated in Costa Rica; whose Gouernour placeth a Deputie, and the Bishop of Ni∣caragua a Vicar. There is in it a reasonable Port, in the coast of this Prouince on the North Sea. After this is the Riuer Yare that diuideth it from that of Honduras, the Riuer of Yairepa, before the Riuer and Port of Saint Iohn, which is called the Voyding or Desaguadero,* 2.210 with a great Iland at the mouth, and after, some other Riuers common to Costa Rica. In the South Sea, it hath be∣sides the Realeio, the Port of Saint Iames, before the Chira, and the Port of Paro ••ight against [ 20] Nicoya, in the Gulfe called of the Salt-pits, before the Point of Saint Lazarus,* 2.211 and the Cape of Borrica, at the East side whereof are the Ilands of Saint Marie, Saint Martha, Cobaya, and Se∣baco, neere to the bounds of Veragua, common to Costa Rica.

In the Coast of Nicaragua, on the South side,* 2.212 the Village of Bruxelles was peopled 1529. and Iames Lopes of Salcedo disinhabited it, because they had receiued in it Pedro de los Rios, Gouer∣nour of Castilla del Oro, which went to take the Gouernment of Nicaragua, where Salcedo had thrust himselfe, and had gone from Honduras his owne Gouernment vnto it. Captaine Francis∣cus Hernandez planted it 1524. in the doubtfull Streight, in the seate of Vritina, and on the one side it had the Sea, on the other the Playnes, and on the third side the Mountaine of the Mynes, and in all this Orbe there are no Indians more expert in the Castillan tongue then those of Ni∣caragua.

[ 30]

The Prouince and Gouernment of Costa Rica, the furthest East of the Northerne Indies,* 2.213 and Councell of Guatemala, hath in length East and West ninetie leagues from the Confines of Ve∣ragua vnto those of Nicaragua, with which it ioyneth by the North, and by the West. In it are two Townes, it is a good Countrie, with many showes of Gold, and some of Siluer. The one Towne is the Village of Aranjues fiue leagues from Chomes Indianes,* 2.214 a Towne of the iu∣risdiction of Nicoya. The Citie of Cartago, fortie leagues from Nicoya, and twentie from the Sea almost in the middest of the Prouince, hath a Port and landing place in the Coast of the South Sea, and the North Sea, wherein there is some Riuers betweene Nicaragua and Veragua, common to this Gouernment, and the Bayes of Saint Ierome and of Caribaco, neere the limits [ 40] of Veragua.

THe part of the Indies of the South is vniustly called America, it is all that is discouered from Nombre de Dios and Panama to the South, wherein is included Terra firme,* 2.215 the Kingdomes of Piru, the Piru Chile, which the Indians call Chille; The Prouinces of the Streight, the Riuer of Plate and Brasile, where are fiue Councels of Panama, new Kingdome of Granada, Saint Francise of Quito, Lima, the Charcas, and the eleuen Gouernments: part of their Coast toucheth in the North Sea, and part in the South: in the which for the most part reigneth the South and the South-west, which contrarie to his nature is there pleasant, and doth mitigate the great heate, whereby that Countrie may bee inhabited, although it ne∣uer [ 50] rayneth nor hayleth in it, but in a very little distance.* 2.216 And the two rowes of Mountaines that runne equally through all these Indies, haue a great difference, though they are in one al∣titude of the Pole: for the one is well replenished with Trees and it alwayes rayneth in it, and it is hot: the other is all bare, and cold in Summer and Winter. These rowes are called Andes, and Sierra or the Mountayne; they haue most high Hils, and goe in sight the one of the other one thousand leagues, almost equally. In the Hill are bred sundrie beasts, and in the parts where they open they make Valleys, which is excellent dwelling, as that of Xanxa, and Guaylas,* 2.217 and Yucay. In the Andes also are bred sundrie beasts, and past the Citie of Cuzco, these rowes doe diuide themselues, leauing in the middest a great champaine Countrie, which is the Prouince of Collao, where are infinite Riuers, Lakes, and Pastures, without Trees or Wood, for the distemperature of the Countrie, though wholesome and much inhabited.* 2.218 There follow∣eth after it the Prouince of the Charcas, hot and of great plentie, with very rough Hills of [ 60] great riches of Mynes: and the figure of these Indies is seene in the Table before going.

[illustration] map of South America

HONDIVS his Map of America Meridionalis.

AMERICA MERIDI∣ONALIS

THe limits of the Counsell of Panama, which was first called Castilla del Oro, and afterwards Terra Firme, are very small, for the Counsell is principally resident there, for the dispatch of the Fleetes, and Merchants, which goe and come to Piru: it hath in length East and West, about nintie leagues, from the confines of the gouernment of Cartagena, and Popayan, vnto the Castle of Veragua,* 2.219 and in breadth from the South Sea to the North sixtie leagues, and thence downeward vnto eighteene by Nombre de Dios, or Porto bello to Panama: it is a ground general∣ly very rough with Mountaines, full of quagmires, the ayre close with vapours, moist, hot, and for this cause very sickly from May vnto Nouember, a barren soyle, and destitute of many things: for there groweth nothing but Millet, and very little, though there be good Pastures for Kine, and breeding of Cattle. The gouernment of Veragua stands in the bounds of this Counsell, and in it, [ 50] and in that of Panama these Townes following.

* 2.220The Citie of Panama is in the coast of the South Sea, neere vnto it, in 9. degrees of latitude, and 82. of longitude from the Meridian of Toledo, from whence it is distant by direct way one thou∣sand fiue hundred and sixtie leagues. It is a Towne of six hundred housholds, the most are Mer∣chants and dealers. And with the Counsell are resident the Kings Officers, and Royall treasurie, which doe goe already to Portobello, when there is any Fleete to the dispatching of it, and like∣wise the Cathedrall suffragan to the Archbishopricke of the Kings (delos res) is here resident with three Monasteries, of Dominicke, Franciscane and Merced Friers. The Port of this Citie is reaso∣nable, although at low water the Ships remaine dry, and therefore in Summer they ride in the strand, and in winter in the hauen of Perico, two leagues from the citie. Pedrarias Dauila peopled [ 60] it, being Gouernour of Castillo, del Oro, or of the Gold, against the will of the dwellers of Sancta Marie, the auncient of Darien, the yeare 1519. and a little after the Cathedrall Church was remoued thither; and it might haue had a better seate, and more wholesome, and to the

purpose for the trafficke of the South Sea, not going very farre from whence the Citie now stands.

The Citie of Nombre de Dios, was by Iames of Nicuesa first planted 1510. and afterward by Iames of Albitez, by order of Pedrarias, and he was the first Admirall that discouered her port. It is remoued to Portobelo, for the first Admirall discouered it, and gaue the name, because it was more wholesomer, and fitter for the loading and vnloading of the Fleetes, and for their securitie,* 2.221 and of the new Citie of Saint Phillip, which is built there: the Inginer Baptista Antonelli, hath made a Castle, and appointed another on the other side the hauen, for to keepe the entrie. The Merchandize are carried from Portobelo to Panama by two wayes, one by Land with carriage, which is eighteene leagues of lesse difficultie then by the way of Nombre de Dios: the other by [ 10] Sea, and the Riuer of Chagre, whose mouth is eighteene leagues from Portobelo, to the West, whereby the Merchandize goe vp when the water reacheth to the vent of the Crosses, and from thence they go in carriages fiue leagues to Panama.

The Village of Nata stands thirtie leagues from Panama to the West,* 2.222 in the Coast of the South Sea, Captaine Franciscus Companion peopled it, by order of Peter Arias, for the warre with the Casique Vrraca. The inhabiting of Acla, and Captaine Gabriel of Roias finished by commandement of Peter Arias, in the Coast of the North Sea, and entrance of the Gulfe of Vraba,* 2.223 right against the Iland of Pinos, whereof at this present there is no more memory then that there was the death of that famous Captaine, whose memory will last eternally, the President Bas•••• Nunnez of Balnoa, and of his company. In the breach of Almagro, and in the head of the Riuer [ 20] Chiepo, there is Gold, and in times past was much gotten. In all these Riuers are many Li∣zards or Crockadiles, and very great, which put the first discouerers and pacifiers to great trou∣ble, and did deuoure some men.* 2.224 It happened that a man being in a Boate neere to the Kings House in Panama, a Lizard came and snatched him from the Stearne of the Boate, and carried him away to eate him on certaine Rockes, and hauing begunne to teare him in pieces, they shot at him with a Caliuer and killed the Lizard, so that he before his death receiued the Sacraments of the Church.

The Prouince of Veragua, which stands in somewhat more then tenne degrees,* 2.225 doth confine with Costarica, on the West side: it hath in length East and West fiftie leagues, and in breadth [ 30] fiue and twentie: a Mountainous Countrie, full of bushes, without Pastures or Cattle, Wheate, Barley, little Millet or little Pulse; but full of Gold with many vaines of it, and rich Mines in the Riuers, and breaches, and those Indians that are, are in warre: it hath the Ci∣tie of the Conception fortie leagues from Nombre de Dios, to the West, where the Go∣uernour and the Officers (which they of Panama at this present doe prouide) are resi∣dent.* 2.226 The Village of Trinitie stands six leagues to the East of the Conception by Sea (for yee cannot goe by Land) neere to the Riuer of Bethleem, at three leagues from the Sea. The Citie of Sancta Fe stands twelue leagues from the Conception to the South,* 2.227 with mel∣ting houses, and Deputie Officers. The Citie of Charles, in the coast of the South Sea, neere to the Sea, fiftie leagues from the Citie of Sancta Fe, to the East: all the Indians of this [ 40] gouernment are in warre.

There is no Port of name in the two Coasts South, and North, of this gouernment,* 2.228 and in all the bounds of the Counsell, are the Riuers, Ports, and points following. The Bay of Carabaco, or of Saint Hierome, in the coast of the North Sea, and the confines of Veragua, and to the East of it, and of the Riuer of the Trinitie, of the Conception, and of Bethlehem (where was the first inhabiting that the first Admirall made in Terra firme, of all that Orbe, in the yeare 1503. which continued not: and right against the Shield, an Iland, and the Riuer of Chagre,* 2.229 and more to the East a league the Portete, to the place where the Admirall came discouering the same yeere, and the Ports of a 2.230 Langostas twelue leagues from Nombre de Dios, to the West, and the Port de Gallinas or of Hennes nine degrees, and the Port of Bonauenture six, Portobelo fiue, and right against it the Ilands of the b 2.231 Lookings, and those of the Prouisions or Bastimentos: and hauing Nombre de [ 50] Dios two leagues, the Riuer of c 2.232 Sardinilla, and the Iland of d 2.233 Sardina, foure; and the Riuer of Millet or Mayz, and the Riuer of Snakes, or Culebras, eight; and at the entry of the Gulfe of Vraba, where in the yeare 1509. the Bachiller Enciso built the Citie of Sancta Marie of Darien. This Bachiller Enciso was he that published that in the Prouince which was called Castilla del Oro, there were places where the gold was fished with nets, which encouraged many people to goe to the Indies, which passed in the yeare 1514. with Peter Arias Danila: and the President Basco Nunnez of Balboa, went 1513. from the Darien in demand of the South Sea, and discouered it. The Point of the Iland of Captiua, stands right against the Mountaines of Saint Blas, and the Iland of Comagre, and the Iland of Pinos, more within the Gulfe of Vraba, and in the [ 60] inward Port of it, the Port of Nilcos, neere to the mouth of the Riuer of Darien, which di∣uideth the bounds of this Counsell, and those of the Gouernement of Cartagena, and there is Culata de Vraba, where in the yeare 1510. Alonso of Oieda inhabited Saint Sebastian of Vraba. This Gulfe stands in 8. degrees, it hath foureteene leagues of longi∣tude into the Lands, and in the entrie it hath six in breadth, and a little forward fiftie,

and at the end foure, and fiue leagues within was the Citie of Sancta Marie, the auncient of Darien.

In the South Sea stands the Cape of Sancta Marie, and point (de Guerra) of Warre, and toward Panama, the Gulfe of Parita, or Paris where stands Nata, the point of Chiame, the Countrie of that Cazique Chiapes, the friend of Basco Nunnez of Balboa, which holpe him in his discouery: and passed the Port of Panama, the Riuer of Chepo, and the Balsa, or of Congos in the inner part of the Gulfe of Saint Michael, North and South from the Iland of Pearles, and the Point or Port of Pinyas, at the entrie of the Gulfe on the South side, which is fiftie leagues from Panama, and twen∣tie ouerthwart to the Gulfe of Vraba, and Puerto Quemado, or Burnt Hauen, neere to the Cape of Corrientes, in 5. degrees of altitude Septentrionall. [ 10]

* 2.234THe bounds of the Counsel of the New Kingdome hath in length East and West, three hundred leagues, and as many North and South, wherein are comprehended the Prouinces of the New Kingdome, the gouernments of Sancta Martha, and Cartagena, and part of that of Popayan; & for borders the Prouinces of the Dorado, or new Stremadura: the Prouince of New Kingdome, which is that which the Counsell gouerneth: it hath in length from East to West foureteen leagues, and eightie in breadth North and South of plaine ground, for the most part with Valleys and hils, and good Pastures for all sort of Cattle, which are in abundance, and in many places, Wheate, Miller, and the fruits of Castile, and generally much Gold and very fine, and Mines of Copper & Steele: and the Countrie men for the most part are able men, great traffickers, and doe weare Cotten cloath. And the Townes that be in the Kingdome of Spaniards, are the Citie of * 2.235 Sancta Fe of [ 20] Bogota, which was built at the foote of Bogota, so called by the Cazique which was called Bogota, which the President Gonçalo Ximenez of Quesada built, and gaue the name to the Citie and to the Kingdome, because he was of Granada, though in the discouery the President Belalcazar, and Ni∣cholas Federman had part: it stands 72. degrees and a halfe of longitude from the Meridian of To∣ledo, which by a greater circle may be one thousand foure hundred and fortie leagues, and 4. de∣grees on this side of the Equinoctial, it hath more then six hundred housholds, in it is resident the Counsell, the Kings Officers and Royall treasurie, and Melting house, the Cathedrall Metropoli∣tane, whose suffragans are, Popayan, Cartagena and Sancta Marta, with a Monasterie of Dominicke and another of Franciscane Friers, and in her borders more then fiftie thousand tributarie Indians [ 30] and the Lake of Guatauita,* 2.236 which was a worshipping place of the Indians, where it is reported that they did cast great summes of Gold in offring to the Idols.

The Village of Saint Michael in the bounds of Sancta Fe, twelue leagues from it to the North, was built for trafficke with the Pauche Indians,* 2.237 because being of a hot Countrie it did them hurt to goe to Sancta Fe, which is cold. The Citie of Tocayma fifteene leagues from Sancta Fe, to the West,* 2.238 somewhat inclined to the North, with a Monasterie of Dominicke Friers, was inhabited the yeare 1545. by the Captaine Hernando Vanegas, in the border of the maine Riuer Pati, which runneth into the Riuer Magdalene. It hath no gold, and is most hot, and by night there falleth no Deaw in it. In all the Kingdome there is no generall tongue, that which is most vnderstood, is that of the Pauches. In the Prouince of the Musos, and Colimas, which by another name [ 40] are called Canupeis, fiue and twentie leagues in length, to the North-west of Bogota, a rough Countrie, sound, plentifull of Pastures, Gold, and Emeralds: there are two Townes; the Citie of the Trinitie twentie leagues from Sancta Fe,* 2.239 to the North-west, which the Cap∣taine Lanchero inhabited the yeere 1582. when hee went to warre with the Indians * 2.240 Moscas, a quicke and fearefull Nation: and in these bounds stands the rich Mine of the Emeralds, with many Indians which yet are peaceable, and in the Prouince of Chiagnachi, which signifieth Snailes, for there be many.

The Village of Palma in the Colimas, of a temper hotter then cold, fifteene leagues from Sancta Fe to the North-west,* 2.241 the Captaine Don Gutierre of Oualle built it 1572. in the Prouince of Tunia, which tooke the name of the Cazique, almost to the North, direct to that of Bogota, and in all like vnto it:* 2.242 The Citie of Tunia stands two and twentie leagues from Sancta Fe, to the [ 50] North-east, on a high hill, a strong scituation, for the warre with the Indians. There goe out of this Citie aboue two hundred Horse-men, and it is the most aboundant of Victuals of all the Borders, and there is the greatest Market in all the Realme: it hath one Monasterie of Do∣minicke, another of Franciscane Friers. The Captaine Gonçalo Xuarez Rondon built it, for the Pre∣sident Gonzalo Ximenez of Pulsada.* 2.243 The Citie of Pamplona seuenty leagues from Sancta Fe to the North-east, hath one Monasterie of Dominick Friers; much Gold is gotten in it, it hath abundance of Cattle: the Bachiller Michael Diaz of Armendariz peopled it. The Village of Saint Christo∣pher is thirteene leagues from Pamplona to the North, the Captaine Franciscus of Caceres built it neere the Prouince of * 2.244 Grita, so called because the Indians came out of the high wayes to shoute and crie after the Spaniards, and to kill them: little Gold is gotten in it, and it hath commoditie, [ 60] for to breede Cattle.

* 2.245The Citie of Merida, in the bounds of the gouernment of Veneçuela, and the New Kingdome, fortie leagues from Pamplona to the North-east: it is a plentifull Countrie of Mines of

Gould, and of Wheate. The Citie of Belez thirtie leagues from Sancta Fe to the North, and fif∣teene from Tunia, hath one Monasterie of Franciscane Fryers:* 2.246 the Captaine Goncalo Ximenez Roudou inhabited it. It is a Countrie where many thunderboults fell, and there fall not so ma∣ny since the holy Sacrament of the Altar is there abiding:* 2.247 it hath one fierie mouth that casteth many stones. The Citie of Mariquita of Ybague, by another name Saint Sebastian of the Gould,* 2.248 is fortie leagues from Sancta Fe to the North-west, the Captaine Pedroso peopled it 1551. in certaine Meadowes, leaning to the hill, the temper is very hot.* 2.249 The Citie of Ybague is three hun∣dred leagues from Sancta Fe, almost to the West: it is the first Towne of the New Realme, that doth confine with Popayan, the Captaine Andrew Lopez of Galarza peopled it 1551. by com∣mission of the Counsell, for to eschew the harmes these Indians did with those of Tocayma, [ 10] and Cartago, and for to open the way to the gouernment of Popayan, it hath a Monasterie of Dominicke Friers.

The Citie of the Victorie of the Remedies, fiftie leagues from Sancta Fe, to the North-west,* 2.250 is very rich of Mines. The Citie of Saint Iohn of the Plaines, fiftie leagues from Sancta Fe to the South, is a Countrie of much Gould. The Citie of Tudela which the Captaine Peter of Vrsua built, by order of the Bachiller Don Michael Diuz of Armendariz was disinhabited, be∣cause the Indians * 2.251 Moxcas receiued hurt by it. And there are of the limits of the Coun∣sell of the new Realme, seuen Townes of the gouernment of Popayan, Sancta Fe of An∣tiochia, Caramanta, Arma, Anzerma, Cartago, Saint Sebastian of the Siluer, and Saint Vincent de las Pazes.

[ 20] The Merchandize enters this Kingdome, by the great Riuer of Magdalene, from the * 2.252 Baranca of Malamba, of the iurisdiction of Cartagena, and the first that sent to discouer this Riuer, was Garcia of Lerma, Gouernour of Sancta Martha 1531. It entreth into the Sea so broad and strong, that at the passing, the Ships are wont to be in danger, if they goe not somewhat distant, for the combat of the current, and working of the Sea. It hath an Iland in the mouth, it is nauigated more then one hundred and fiftie leagues, and in more then three hundred it is not waded: it commeth from aboue Popayan from two Fountaines that are fortie leagues distant, by which ioyning the Riuer is made: it was called of Magdalene, because on that day was the mouth discouered, in 12. degrees of height, and six and twenty leagues from Cartagena.

The Prouince and Gouernment of Sancta Martha in the coast of Terra firme is seuentie leagues [ 30] in breadth and length, betweene Carthagena and the Riuer of Hache:* 2.253 it is a plentifull Coun∣trie of Millet, and Potatoes, much Gould, and Copper, and some Emeralds, and other Stones: in it are fiue Spanish Townes; and though there be many of the Countrie-men, the most are in warre. The President Bastidas peopled the Citie of Sancta Martha 1525. neere to the Sea, in 10. degrees of latitude, and 74. of longitude, one thousand foure hundred and twentie leagues from Toledo, where is resident the Gouernour, and Officers Royall, and the Cathedrall suffragan to the New Kingdome. The Port is reasonable. This Gouernment hath foure Prouin∣ces, Pozignay, Betona, Chimica, and Tayrona, which signifieth a Forge, and with great rea∣son, because in that Countrie are an infinite quantitie of diuersitie of Mettals, and Stones of great esteeme and value.

[ 40] Tenerife stands by the border of Rio Grande or the great Riuer (which is that of Magdalene) fortie leagues from Sancta Martha to the South-west, part by the Sea, and part by Land:* 2.254 Fran∣ciscus Euriques did people it, by order of Gonçalo Perez which gouerned in Sancta Martha,* 2.255 by Commission of the President Lugo. Tamalameque, or Village of the Palmes is sixtie fiue leagues from Sancta Martha to the South, and twentie from Tenerife, two leagues from the Great Riuer: the Captaine Bartholomew Dalua peopled it 1561. The Citie of los Reyes in the Valley of Vpari,* 2.256 is plentifull of Millet, Prouision, and Cattle, and of much Copper, to the South-east of Sancta Martha, fiftie leagues from it, and thirtie from the Riuer of Hache: the Captaine Sanct Anne peopled it, by commandement of the Bachellor Michael Diuz, a 2.257 La Ramada was built be∣fore, called first new Salamanca, fortie leagues from Sancta Martha to the East, and eight from [ 50] the Riuer of Plate, at the ouerflowings of the Snowie Mountaine. It stands in the Valley of V∣pani, where there is as much Copper as Stone. The Merchandize of this Gouernment goeth vp to the New Kingdome by the marsh of this Citie, which is eight leagues from it by the Sea, and afterward twelue vnto the Barranca of Malambo, in the great Riuer. Ocanna is also in this Go∣uernment,* 2.258 which the Captaine Franciscus Hernandez inhabited 1572. and was first called Sancte Anne. There is in the Coast of this Gouernment the Riuer of Buhia, neere Rama∣da, and the Riuer of Piras, and that of b 2.259 Palomino, where a Captaine of this name was drow∣ned, and the Riuer of Don Iames, the c 2.260 Ancones of Buritaca, and the Cape of d 2.261 Aguia neere Sancta Martha, right against the hill of Bonda, and the Riuer of Gayra, to the West.

[ 60] The Prouince and Gouernment of Cartagena, in the Coast of Terra firme, and the North Sea, hath in length East and West, from the Riuer of the Magdalene, vnto the Riuer of Darien, eigh∣tie leagues North and South, and as many vnto the confines of the New Kingdome, though men say it is more in Voyage. The Countrie is Mountainous of Hils and Valleys, of high Trees, rainie and moist: the seedes of Castile beare no seede, there is no Wheate, nor Gould, but in some places.

There is much rozen made in some Mountaines of this Gouernment, and Gums arromaticke, and other liquors which they get out of the Trees, and great quantitie of Sanguis Draconis, and a ve∣ry fragrant balme of great vertues.

* 2.262The Citie of Carthagena I••ands neare the Sea, two leagues from the Point of Canoa, to the West, in tenne degrees of latitude, and seuentie six of longitude, one thousand foure hundred and sixtie leagues from Toledo, of more then fiue hundred housholds, among them aboue two thousand women. In it is resident the Gouernour, the Kings Officers, & treasurie Royall, and the Cathedrall suffragan to the New Realme, with Monasteries of Dominick and Franciscan Friers. The scituation is plain, and almost like an Iland, the Sea compasseth it on the North side, & it is a rough coast, and very shallow; and on the land side it hath an arme of the Sea which reacheth to a Marish, which is [ 10] the Lake of Canapote, which ebbeth & floweth after the order of the Sea, & at the same houre, and they passe from the Citie to Terra firme, by a Bridge and a manner of a Causie, which hath about two hundred and fiftie paces. The Citie is built on Sand, & within two fathoms they finde fresh water, though sometimes it is vnwholesome, not so much as the coast of Nombre de Dios; for the ayres in respect of the Marish are wont to cause diseases, but for the most part it is wholsome. The Hauen is one of the least of the Indies, though the great Ships doe ride farre from the Citie. It hath at the entrie an Iland like that of Escombrera in Cartagena of Castile, whereby they called it Carta∣gena, and the Iland was called Codego, now they call it Caxes, it hath two leagues in length, & lit∣tle more then halfe a league in bredth: it was wont to be inhabited with Indian Fishers, & it hath no water. The first that saw Carthagena, in the year 1502. was Roderick Bastidas, & the year 1504. [ 20] Iuan de la Cosa or Iohn of the Thing went a shore, and found Lewes Guerra, and they were the first that began the warre with the Indians, which were proud and bould, and both men and women fought,* 2.263 with venomed arrows. Afterward returned Alonso of Oieda▪ with Iohn of the Thing for Pi∣lot Maior, & Americo Vespucio for Mariner, & some years after Gregorie of Obiedo took vpon him to inhabit Cartagena, & performed it not. The year 1532. went Don Pedro of Eredia born in Madrid, and inhabited it, and pacified a great part of the Countrie, though with labour and cunning, be∣cause the people were very warlike, and there was a woman that before they could take her, be∣ing about eighteene yeeres old,* 2.264 slew with her Bow eight Spaniards.

The Village of Saint Iames of Tolu, is six leagues from the Sea to the South-west of Cartagena two leagues from it,* 2.265 part by Sea (for by Land it cannot be gone) and part by the Marishes and [ 30] Mountaines. It is a sound Countrie, of great breedings, and tillage, and fruits of Castile: the Presi∣dent Don Peter of Heredia peopled it.* 2.266 The Village of Marie thirtie two leagues from Cartagena, to the South, is also the inhabiting of Don Peter of Heredia, in the yeare 1534. The Village of * 2.267 Sancta Cruz of Mopox is seuentie leagues from Cartagena by the Sea and Riuer of Magdalene, neere whose border it stands, & whereby they goe about more then halfe the way, it is not sound being among Quagmires. A Captaine of Don Peter of Heredia peopled it 1535. The yeare of 1509. the Bachiller Eusico (as hath been said) inhabited Sancta Marie, the auncient of the Darien, which is in this Gouernment,* 2.268 forsaking the Village of Saint Sebastian of Bona vista, which the same Captaine Alonso de Oieda had inhabited, in the furthest place of Vraba: & afterward the Captain Alonso of Heredia inhabited Saint Sebastian againe, for the President his Brother, in certaine little [ 40] hils, almost halfe a league from the Sea. And in the yeare 1537. the Bachiller Iohn of Vadillo went out of Saint Sebastian with a good number of Souldiours, and passing many troubles, & most rough Mountains, & thick woods, came to the Citie of Antioquia, of the gouernment of Popayan, & there was a Souldior that from thēce came to the Citie of the Plate, in the Charcas, which is 1200. leag.

The * 2.269 Barranca of Malambo, which is a Custome house of the iurisdiction of Cartagena, thirtie leagues from it,* 2.270 on the border of the great Riuer, and twenty from Sancta Martha, & six from the Sea, where the Merchandize that are carried by Land to the New Realme are vnloaden, & from the Barranca are carried vp by the Riuer in Canooes. Lower then Nopox entreth the Riuer of Cauca into the Riuer of Magdalene, which also springeth about Popayan: & more toward Cartagena and to the West, standeth the Knobbe, and the point of Zamba, and Butrio del gato or Arbolera, and the [ 50] seuen Cottages, and the point of the Canowe, two leagues from Cartagena, and the point of Ycacos at the entrie of the port, right against the Iland of Carex, and the point of the Ship in Terra firme; at the other lesser entrie of the port, and almost to the North, is a little Iland which is called Sar∣dina, and in the coast of Tolu the Ilands of Baru, which are six, and at the entrie of the Gulfe of V∣raba the six, which are called of Saint Bernard, right against the Riuer Zenu: and more within the Gulfe, the strong Iland, and the Tortoyse. The port of Zenu stands fiue and twenty leagues from Cartagena, it is a great Bay that hath his entrance by the East, it is secure: here they make store of Salt, and it tooke the name of the Towne Zenu, which standeth on the Riuer.

* 2.271In the Prouinces of the Darade, or new Estremadura (which circuit pertaines to the bounds of the Counsell of the New Realme) many Captains haue entred by Sea, and by sundry parts of the Land, and haue neuer found the riches, which the same promiseth. They fall on the other side of [ 60] the Riuer of Saint Iohn of Amazones, by another name Orellana (which some erroniously wil haue to be the Meranyon) and here is the Orinico, and other great Riuers, and the Gulfe of Paria which maketh the firme land, with the Land of the Trinitie, & the mouthes of the Serpent, & the Dragon,

which the first Admirall named, where he saw himselfe in great danger, for the conflict which the fresh waters make there with the salt, whereof he had yet no notice,* 2.272 and here beginneth the flowing of the Sea to be very great, vnto the streight of Magellan, and goeth continuing through all the coast of Piru, and New Spaine.

The Prouinces of Piru (whose name hath extended it selfe more then it was at the beginning) include all the Empire of the Ingas, or more;* 2.273 for when it was won it was diuided in two go∣uernments, that of Don Franciscus Piçarro, called the New Castile, from the Quito vnto the Cuzco, sixtie leagues below the Chincha: and that of Don Iames of Almagro, called the New Toledo, two hundred leagues toward the Streight from Chincha; which gouernments were distinct vntil [ 10] the Councell de los Reyes was established, and a Vice-roy prouided for the Kingdomes of Piru, in whose gouernment are included, the Councell of Saint Francis of the Quito, that of Luna (or de los Reyes of the Kings) that of the Charcas, the gouernment of Chile, & countries of the Streights, the Ilands of Salomon to the West, and for borders the Prouinces of the Riuer of Plate, and that which determinately is comprehended vnder the gouernment of the Vice-roy. It hath in length North and South from two thousand leagues vpward, and East and West, that which is discoue∣red from the South Sea to the North Sea. The two Rowes that haue beene spoken of,* 2.274 doe passe through all the Prouinces of Piru North and South, that of the Andes from Popayan, and yet ma∣ny will haue, that from Terra firme and New Spaine, till it ends in the * 2.275 Streight, and the other lesse, from the Quito vnto Chile, along the coast, twelue leagues distant, little more or lesse.

The two wayes passed betweene these two Mountaines,* 2.276 the one which they called of the In∣gas, [ 20] by the Andes from Pasto vnto Chile, which hath nine hundred leagues in length, and fiue and twentie foote of Cawsie, and euery foure leagues very sumptuous houses, which they call Tambos, where was prouision of victuals and apparell, and euery halfe league men that were in postes for to carry messages, and orders from hand to hand. The other way went through the middest of the Playnes, along the coast of fiue and twentie foote broad,* 2.277 betweene two walls of a mans height, from Piura vnto Chile, where both the wayes met. And it is to be noted, that all the Indies of the South are not to be vnderstood by Piru, for as hath beene said,* 2.278 it is not but that which beginneth from Saint Francis of Quito, which is vnder the Equinoctiall Line, and runneth along vnto Chile, going out of the Tropicks, which may bee sixe hundred leagues, [ 30] and fiftie in breadth, though toward the Chachapoyas there is more, and it is diuided in three parts: The Playnes, which haue about ten leagues in breadth, and in parts lesse,* 2.279 they are the coast of the Sea: The Hills, which haue about twentie, and is all Hills and some Valleys: and the Andes other twentie, which are most thicke Groues and Woods, and in so little space as fiftie leagues equally distant from the Line and Pole: there is so great diuersitie,* 2.280 that in the one place almost it rayneth alwayes, and in the other almost neuer, which is the Coast, and in the third which is the Mountaines that fall in the middest of these extreames, sometime it ray∣neth, and sometime not, for it hath his Summer and Winter as in Castile: and the causes of not rayning in the Coast, and rayne in the Andes, are spoken of in the beginning of the Historie.

[ 40]

THe bounds of the Councell resident in Quito,* 2.281 and confining Northward with that of Pana∣ma, in the Port of Bonauentura, and on the North-east with the New Realme, and on the South with that of Lama; hath in length by the South coast, which is the place where it leng∣thens most, about two hundred leagues from the Port of Bonauenture, which is in the Gulfe of Panama, or of Saint Michael, the Port of Payta in the coast of Piru, and from thence crosse to the vttermost of Popayan, more then other two hundred and fiftie, the limits remayning open on the East side: in it is included three Gouernments, besides those of the Councell, which are Po∣payan, Quixos, la Canela, and that of Iuan de Salinas, of the Pacamoros, and Gualsango,* 2.282 diuided in two Bishopricks.

[ 50] The Prouince and Gouernment of Quito, which the Councell gouerneth, hath in length eightie leagues, from neere the Equinoctiall to the other side,* 2.283 and in it these Townes of Spaniards fol∣lowing. The heauen and earth thereof, although it stands vnder the Equinoctiall, is like to that of Castile, cleere and faire, rather cold then hot, and in parts where the snow continueth all the yeere, it rayneth from October to March, which they call the winter; and in the other mo∣neths they cut their Grasse, which though it be not long it is fit for the Cattell of Castile,* 2.284 where∣of there is great store; and of Wheat and Barley, and gold in some places: and in this Region they liue pleasantly, for there is nothing more pleasant for humane life, then to enioy a wholesome and cleere skie, for they haue no Winter to trouble them with cold, nor Summer to molest with heat. The Townes are, the Citie of Saint Franciscus of Quito, where Athaualpa Emperour of Piru was borne, it stands in halfe a degree of height from the Equinoctiall,* 2.285 and eightie two from the [ 60] Meridian of Toledo, by a greater circle one thousand sixe hundred eightie sixe leagues from it, and sixtie from the South Sea; it is of fiue hundred housholds: In it is resident the Councell for matters of Iustice, for those of the Gouernment are at the Vice-roy his charge. There are also in this Citie the Officers of the Kings Rents and treasurie Royall, and the Cathedrall of this Bi∣shopricke,

Suffragane to the Archbishop of The Kings (los Reyes) there are three Monasteries of Dominicke, Franciscan, and Mercenarie * 2.286 Friars: and in her iurisdiction eightie seuen Townes, or parcialities of Indians. In the situation where this Citie was built, were certaine great lodgings which the King Topayuga built, and his sonne Guayuacapa beautified, and were called Quito, from whence the Citie tooke the name; the President Sebastian of Belalcaçar, a souldier of Don Fran∣ciscus Piçarro built it, a loyall man to the King, by order of the President Don Iames of Almagro, which left him for Gouernour of the Prouince when hee went vnto it, hauing ended the agree∣ment with the President Don Peter of Aluarado.

* 2.287The Riuer Bamba in the Prouince of the P••r••aes, is a Countrie to Castile in the temperature, of herbes, flowres, and other things: it is a towne of shepheards, it stands fiue and twentie leagues [ 10] to the South-west of Saint Francisce of Quito, the way to the Kings, wherein are fortie thou∣sand head of cattell, the greatest part sheepe. Here the Yugas had certaine Royall houses, and here the President Belalcazar had a tedious battaile with the Indians, and ouercame them, and in this place was the agreement rehearsed of Don Iames of Almagro and Don Peter of Aluarado, and in it was the Citie of Quito first built.

The citie of Cuenca (which the Marques of Cauyete commanded to be built, being Vice-roy of Piru,* 2.288 which by another name is called Bamba, one and fiftie leagues from Quito to the South) is a Corregidorship prouided of the Vice-roy, with one Monasterie of Dominicke, another of Fran∣ciscan Friars. In her iurisdiction are rich mynes of gold, some of siluer, and rich mynes of quick-siluer,* 2.289 copper, Iron, and Brimstone. The citie of Loxa, otherwise called la Zarça, eightie leagues from the citie of Quito toward the South,* 2.290 and thirtie from Cuenca, is a Gouernourship prouided [ 20] by the Vice-roy; it hath Monasteries of Saint Dominicke and of Saint Francis, it stands in the way from Cuzco to Quito, from whence it is eightie leagues, in the faire Valley of Cuxibamba, betweene two Riuers. Captaine Antonie of Mercadillo built it in the yeere 1546. for to pacifie the countrimen which were somewhat disordered.* 2.291 The citie of Zamora, which is called of the Alcaydes, is ninetie leagues from Quito South-eastward, hauing passed the Rowe of the Andez: it is a Gouernment prouided by the Vice-roy: it hath a Monasterie of Franciscans; they reape no Wheat because the countrie is very raynie: it hath rich Mynes of gold, wherin they find graines of foure pound waight and more: the Captaine Mercadillo peopled it the yeere 1549. by a co∣uenant with Captaine Benauente: It stands twentie leagues from Loxa, hauing past the Rowe [ 30] which diuideth the bankes of the South Sea from the North, the Indians did call it Zamora: that part of the countrie is called Poroauca, which signifieth Indians of warre: much gold is gotten there, and there hath beene graines brought to his Maiestie of twelue pound waight, and there are Salt-pits of salt-water.

* 2.292The citie of Iaen is fiue and fiftie leagues from Loxa, and thirtie from the Chachapoyas; Cap∣taine Iames Palomino built it 1549. in the Prouinces of Chuquimayo, in that of Chacaynga. The citie of Saint Michael of Piura is in the Prouince of Chila,* 2.293 one hundred and twentie leagues from Quito South-eastward, and fiue and twentie from the Port of Payta, where the bounds of this Councell doth end. It is a Gouernment at the prouiding of the Vice-roy: it hath one Mo∣nasterie of Mercenaries.* 2.294 Though in this countrie rayne is holden for a wonder, there are good wa∣tered [ 40] grounds, that beare good Wheat and Miller, and the seedes and fruits of Castile. The port of Payta stands in the iurisdiction of this Citie, in fiue Southerne degrees, which is good, great,* 2.295 and secure, where the ships that goe from Guatemala to Piru doe touch. The Marques Don Franciscu•• Piçarro built it in the yeere 1531. the first of these Kingdomes, and where the first Temple was erected in the honour of God, and the holy Mother Church of Rome. All the Pro∣uince and borders of the Valleys of Tumbez are drie, and the high-way of the Ingas passeth through these Valleys of Piura, betweene trees and pleasant shadowes, and betweene the prin∣cipall Valley are ioyned two or three Riuers:* 2.296 the Citie was built at the first in Tangazala, from whence it was remooued because it was a sickly situation, and now it stands betweene two Val∣leys, and yet is somewhat sickly, especially for the eyes, for the great windes and dusts of the Summer, and great moistures of the Winter. [ 50]

The Citie of Saint Iames of Guayaquil, by another name las Culata, sixtie leagues from Quito, and fifteene from the Sea to the South-west,* 2.297 it is a Gouernment prouided by the Vice-roy: the President Belalcazar peopled it, and many of the Indians hauing rebelled, and slaine many Spa∣niards, the Captaine Franciscus of Orellana peopled it againe 1537. it is a most plentifull and pleasant Countrie, and hath great store of hony in the hollow places of trees: The waters of this Riuer which runne almost vnder the Equinoctiall,* 2.298 are thought healthfull for the French disease, and other s••ch like. Many people went to the Riuer to recouer health, for the multitude of the rootes of Zarçaparrilla that are in the Riuer: it is not very great, nor those that run to the South Sea are so bigge as those that runne into the North Sea, because they runne but a little way; but notwithstanding they are strong and with sudden flouds, because they fall from the Mountaine. [ 60] The Indians doe vse many shi••ts for to passe them; they haue in some places a rope ouer it, and a basket on it, and the passenger being put into it, they pull him from the other side. In other Riuers the Indian goeth riding on a trusse or straw, and earneth the passenger behinde him: in o∣ther

places they haue a great Net of gourds, vpon the which they lay the cloathes and the per∣sons, and the Indians fastened with certaine coardes goe swimming and pulling as coach-horses; and a thousand other artes they vse for to passe the Riuers. The Port of this Citie stands neere vnto it, for the Riuer is very broad, whereby they bring vp the merchandise from the Sea, and they goe by land to Quito. The yeere 1568. Captaine Contero planted the citie of Castro,* 2.299 in the Valley of Vili, the Licentiate Lope Garcia of Castro being Gouernour.* 2.300 Vili is in the Prouinces of Bunigando, Imdiuono, and Gualapa, which they call the Prouince of the Emeralds, and he went a∣bout it from Guayaquil, and discouered all these Prouinces from Passao vnto the Riuer of Saint Iohn, which entreth into the South Sea.

[ 10] The Citie of Puerto Viejo is about eightie leagues from Saint Francis of Quito to the West,* 2.301 though not of open way, and other fiftie from Saint Iames of Guayaquil, whereby yee goe from Quito: in her borders stands the Passao, which is the first Port of the countrie of Piru, and from it, and from the Riuer of Saint Iames, began the gouernment of the Marques Don Franciscus Piçar∣ro: and because this countrie is so neighbour to the Equinoctiall line, that it stands in one degree; some beleeue it is vnwholsome; but in other parts as neere the Line men liue with much health, plentie and abundance of all things for the sustenance of man, against the opinion of the ancient: and so it is that the Indians of this countrie doe not liue long, and in many of them there breede certaine red warts in the foreheads and noses, and other parts, which beside the disease being grieuous, it disfigureth them very much, and it is beleeued that it proceedeth of eating some fish. [ 20] In these bounds stands the towne of Manta,* 2.302 whither great riches haue beene brought from with∣in the Land; and it is held for certaine, that here is a Myne of Emeralds, which are the best of the Indies, and they grow in a stone like Cristall, and they making like a veine,* 2.303 and by little and little congealing and refining themselues, and of halfe white and halfe greene, they goe ripening and recouering their perfection. The Captaine Franciscus Pacheco peopled this citie 1535. by order of Don Iames de Almagro: it hath many Indians in warre: there is in it a Monasterie of Mercenarie Friars, they gather no Wheat, for it rayneth the eight moneths in the yeere from O∣ctober forward, and there are many good showes of gold.

In the coast of this Gouernment are the Ports, Ilands, and Points following.* 2.304 The c 2.305 Aucon of d 2.306 Sardinas, before the Bay of Saint Iames, which is fifteene leagues from the Point of Mangla∣res [ 30] to the South, and then the Bay of Saint Matthew, and after the Cape of Saint Francis; and past it Quiximies, foure Riuers before Portete, where the blacke Mo••res that saued themselues of a ship that was cast away, ioyned with the Indians, and haue made a towne; the Passao, a Point or Port of Indians, where they say the Equinoctiall line passeth, neere the Mountaine of Queaque, and the Bay of Carta which is before old Port, one degree from the Equinoctiall to the South, and fiue leagues from thence the Cape of Saint Laurence, and neere from thence the Iland of Plate, and forward the Ports of Callo, and Calango, before the Point of Saint Helen, in two de∣grees hight; the Riuer of Tumbez in foure degrees, and the Iland of the Puna neere vnto it, and the Iland of Sancta Clara somewhat more to the Sea, and Cabo blanco fifteene leagues from Tum∣bez to the South, and then the Point of Parina, and to the South the Iland of e 2.307 Lobos, foure [ 40] leagues from the Port of Payta abouesaid, and la Silla, before the Point del Aguia, and the Port of Tangora.f 2.308

The men of this countrie say,* 2.309 that in old time there came by Sea in Balsas (which are many pieces of timber fastened one vpon another) men so bigge that had as much from the knee down∣ward, as an ordinarie man in all his body, and that they made certaine Wells most deepe in a quicke Rocke, which at this day are seene very fresh and cold in the Point of Saint Helen, and that because that they vsed most abominable sinnes, fire fell from heauen and consumed them all, and now are found in that situation exceeding great bones of men, and pieces of teeth of fourteene ounces weight, and in New Spaine in the bounds of Tlascala, are bones found of the like bignesse. There are in this Point of Saint Helen, eyes and veine of Tarre, so perfect that they might calke [ 50] with it, and it commeth out very hot.

THe gouernment of Popayan one hundred and twentie leagues North and South,* 2.310 from the confines of the Prouince of Quito, vnder the Equinoctiall vnto the confines of Cartagena by the North, and another one hundred from the confines of new Realme by the East vnto the South Sea, wherein are some Spanish townes, part of the Councell of Quito, and part of the new Realme. The countrie is commonly rough and very raynie, and therefore they haue little Millet, and lesse Wheat, and no store of Cattell, but it is rich of Mynes of gold, and the Townes are these following.

The citie of Popayan stands in two degrees and a halfe to the Septentrionall part of the Equi∣noctiall, and 78. and a halfe of longitude, one thousand fiue hundred and eightie leagues from To∣ledo: in it is resident a Lieftenant Gouernour, the Cathedrall, and one Monasterie of Mercenarie [ 60] Friars. The President Sebastian of Belalcazar peopled this citie 1537. the people of these Pro∣uinces are farre different from that of Piru, for these are of greater vnderstanding▪ and liued in more policie: the men of this gouernment liued as in liberties. It was called Popayan, of the name of

the Cazaque Lord of it: it hath part in the coast of the South Sea, and high Mountaines that goe Eastward: and on another side the Row of the Andes, and on both sides spring many Riuers, and the Riuer of the Magdalene is one, which runneth into the North Sea: in this gouernment are many coole and wholesome townes, and others hot and sickly.

* 2.311The Citie of Cali stands in foure degrees, and two and twentie leagues from Popayan, and eight and twentie from the South Sea, it was inhabited 1537. by the Captaine Michael Munioz; and Sebastian of Belalcazar made it first in the townes which are called the * 2.312 Gorroues; it hath the seate in a plaine Valley, leaning to the foot of a Hill, the temper is hot, the Gouernour, the Officers, and the Kings treasure are resident in it; a melting house, a Monasterie of Mercenaries, another of Augustine Friars. The Port of Bonauenture falleth in his iurisdiction in three degrees [ 10] and a halfe of altitude: in it are some housholds resident for to receiue the merchandize. The In∣dians of Cali are of a good condition, and good Christians, their old Lord was called Lasup••te▪ The village of Saint Fe of Antiochia,* 2.313 is more then an hundred leagues from Popayan to the north-east, in the borders of the Riuer Cauca, of the bounds of the Councell of the New Realme, and Bi∣shopricke of Popayan, rich in Mynes of gold, neere to the Hill of Buritaca famous for the much gold that was in it; it is seated in certaine Plaines. The countrie people are good folkes, well made and white, and the temperature is such that they goe to sleepe on the houses, without any offence of the deaw: they breede much Cattell, many fruits, and fish in the Riuers and Plashes: the Captaine Gaspar of Rhodes inhabited it by commission of the President Belalcazar, the yeere 1541. [ 20]

* 2.314The Village of Caramanta is sixtie or seuentie leagues from Popayan to the North-east, neere to the great Riuer Cauca, of the bounds of the New Realme, gouernment and B••shopricke of Po∣payan, plentifull of Millet and other seedes, without Wheat, and with little Cattell, though they haue many Swine, they goe by the Riuer in fiue or sixe houres to Antiochia, though it bee fiftie leagues; for it runneth very swift: it is the plantation of the President Belalcazar. The village of Saint Iames of Arma,* 2.315 which hath many Mynes of gold, is fiftie leagues from Popayan to the North-east, declining to the East, it is of the Councell of the new-Realme, the gouernment and Diocesse of Popayan; without Wheat or seedes of Castile, but plentifull of the countrie seedes. The President Belalcazar inhabited this village, and here hee beheaded the Marshall George Ro∣bledo.* 2.316 It stands sixteene leagues from Ancerma: the people of the countrie are so butcherly that [ 30] the quicke are the sepulchre of the dead, for it hath beene seene the husband to eate the wife, the brother the brother or sister, the sonne the father, and hauing fatned any captiue, the day that they are to eate him, they bring him forth with many songs, and the Lord commandeth that an Indian doe goe cutting off euery member, and so aliue they goe eating him, and after the inhabi∣ting of Arma they haue eaten more then eight thousand Indians, and some Spaniards haue also suffered this martyrdome.

* 2.317The village of Saint Anne of Ancerma is fiftie leagues from Popayan to the North-east, in the border of Cauca, of the Councell of the new Kingdome, gouernment and Bishopricke of Popayan▪ without Cattell or Wheat, very much annoyed with thunder-bolts: the Captaine George Ro∣bledo built it by order of Laurence of Aldana. Likewise the men of this countrie are eaters of [ 40] humane flesh; they goe naked, they haue no Idols, nor any thing to worship: there are in this iurisdiction good Mynes of gold; the climate is hot, and many thunder-bolts doe fall. The ci∣tie of Cartago,* 2.318 fiue and twentie leagues from Popayan about the North-east, is of the Councell of the New Realme, Gouernment and Bishoprick of Popayan, without Wheat or any seedes of Ca∣stile: it is a temperate and wholesome countrie, of little gold, it rayneth much, they breede no other cattell but Kine, and Mares: they haue many Mountaines, in the which breede many Li∣ons, Tigres, Beares, and * 2.319 Dantas, and wilde Boares: they haue a Monasterie of Franciscan Friars: the Captaine George Robledo inhabited it, and it was called Cartaga, because all the inhabiters were of Cartagena.* 2.320 The village of Timana is fortie leagues from Popayan to the South-east, and sixtie from Santa Fe of Bogota, and thirtie from the Prouinces of Dorado; here is a Lieftenant of [ 50] the Gouernour, which also hath at his charge Saint Sebastian de la Plata: the Indians of their bor∣ders doe decay, for they are so inhumane that in many places they haue publike shambles of men which they take captiue.* 2.321 They haue their seate in the beginning of the Valley of Neyua, the temper is most hot: in their bounds is a Mountaine where they digge the Load-stone, and the Indian Paezes are neere, and the Pixaos, which also are * 2.322 Caribes.

The Citie of Guadalaiara of Buga, is fifteene leagues from Popayan to the North-east, is of the bounds of the Councell of Quito, and Diocesse of Popayan. The Citie of Saint Sebastian of the Plate, in the confines of this Gouernment is thirtie fiue leagues from Popayan, and thirtie to the South-west from Santa Fe, Diocesse of Popayan, where are many Mynes of siluer, and in her bor∣ders twentie foure repartitions: it is three leagues from the Port of Onda, in the great Riuer of [ 60] Magdalen, where those that come vp from Cartagena doe land: it is built in a Plaine, neere to the Riuer Guala: there are many Earthq••akes, and in Winter it is more hot then cold. The Country∣men goe to decay▪ because the c 2.323 Caribes which they call del Rincon do eate them and haue pub∣like shambles of them, without any remedie for it: and the President Belalcazar built this Citie.

The Citie of Almaguer is twentie leagues from Popayan to the South-east;* 2.324 it is plentifull of Wheate and Millet, and other seeds, and cattle, and it hath Gold: the Captaine Alonso of Fu∣enmayor, by order of the Licentiate Brizenyo Gouernour, and d 2.325 Iudge of Accounts, of Popazan peopled it, being seated in a Hill of Zabana, and the climate is fresh, and the people doe weare Cotton-cloth.

S. Iohn of Truxillo,* 2.326 and by another name Yscauce is thirtie leagues from Popayan to the South-east. The Citie of Madrigall, or Chap••nchica, thirtie fiue from Popayan about the South, a rough Countrey, where they neither reape Wheate, nor breed cattell, though they gather Millet twice a yeere in their jurisdiction: and for the roughnesse of the Countrey, the men are euill to [ 10] pacifie, and in this Citie, and in the Citie of Agreda, and Almaguer, are Mynes of Gold. Agreda,* 2.327 and by another name Malga, stands fortie fiue leagues from Popayan to the South-west. The Citie of Saint Iohn of the Pasture, so called because it is a Countrey of many Pastures,* 2.328 it stands fiftie leagues from Popayan, about the South-west, and as many from Quito about the North-east, and in one degree from the Equinoctiall Diocesse of Quito, in a good soyle, of a good clim••te, and plentifull of Millet, and other prouisions, with Mynes of Gold; In her borders are 24000. Indians of fee, which are not Caniballs, but of euill visages, filthy, and simple:* 2.329 they had no Idols in the time of their Paganisme, they beleeued that after death they should goe to liue in more ioyfull places. The Riuer which they call Whoate, is betweene Pasta, and Popayan, it is of a very delicate water, and passed this Riuer is the Mountayne whither Gonçalo Piçarro did follow [ 20] the Vice-roy Blasco Nunyez Vela, and vnto the Riuer Augasmayo, which is in this Prouince came the King Guaynacapa.

Beyond the Riuer Caliente or ho•• Riuer in a Mountayne, is a firie mouth, that casteth store of smoake, and it brake forth in ancient times, as the Countreymen doe say. The Philosophers be∣ing willing to declare what these firie mouthes or Aetnaes are, doe say,* 2.330 that as in the Earth are places that haue vertue to attract a vaporie substance, and to conuert it into water, whereof the continuall springs are made: there are also places that doe attract to themselues dry and hote ex∣halations, which are conuerted into fire and smoake, and with the force of them they cast also another grosse substance which is dissolued into ashes, or into stones, and these are the fierie mouthes. Saint Iohn de Pasto hath Monasteries of Dominicke, Franciscan, and Mercenarie Friers: [ 30] it is a cold Countrey, with abundance of victuals, it hath Sugar Mils, and many Fruites of the Countrey and of Castile: when the Captaine Lawrence of Aldona built it, hee called it e 2.331 Villa viciosa de Pasto, it stands fortie leagues from the South Sea, towards the Iland Gorgoua.

There hath beene disinhabited, or diminished in this Prouince, the Citie of Antiochia, the Village of Neyua in the Valley of Neyua, twentie leagues from Tumana,* 2.332 and it was through the rigour of the Indian Paezes, and Pixaos, and for the Manipos, in the Valley of Saldauya, and the Citie of Saint Vincent of the Paezes, sixtie leagues from Saint Iohn of the Plaines,* 2.333 in the confines of Popayan, which Domingos Lozano built, and the Citie of los Angeles,* 2.334 twentie two leagues from Tocayma, and nine from Neyua. There is in the Coast which this gouernment extendeth on the South Sea, from the Cape of Corrientes,* 2.335 that stands in fiue degrees Septentrionall from the [ 40] Line, the Riuer of Solinas, betweene the Cape of Corrientes and the Iland of the Palmes in foure degrees one third part, and in the Coast that lyeth vnto Gorgoua, the Riuer of Saint Iohn among many other which make the Countrey boggie, and right against the mouth, the Iland of Gorgo∣ua, two leagues compasse, where Don Franciscus Piçarro was forsaken of all his men, with his thirteene companions. The Riuer of Saint Lucar, and the Riuer of Nicardo, before the Riuer of f 2.336 Zedros, in two degrees from the Line, in which stands the Ile del Gallo, and after the Port of the Crosse, and the point of Manglares, where beginneth the Coast of Quito.

Of the gouernment of the Quixos, and Canela, there is no more notice, but that it falls to the East of the Prouince of Quito, and part of the South, toward the gouernment of Iohn of Sa∣linas; there are in it three Spanish Townes, with a Gouernour which the Vice-roy of Piru pro∣uideth, and in spirituall respect it is of the Bishopricke of Quito: the Countrey is rough and [ 50] Mountaynous, without Wheate, and little M••ller, with certayne Trees which seeme of Cina∣mon. The first Towne is Baeça, eighteene leagues from Saint Francis of Iuito, toward the South-east, where the Gouernour is Resident: the Citie of Archidona is twentie leagues beyond Baeça: the Citie of Auila stands to the North of Archidona.

The gouernment and Prouince of Pacamoros and Gualsango,* 2.337 or of Iohn of Salinas whose bounds and limits are one hundred leagues, which were assigned him to the East, from twentie leagues before the Citie of Zamora, in the Rowe of the Andes, and as many more North and South. It is a good Countrey in temper and disposition for Wheate, seeds, and cattle, of rich Mynes of Gold where they haue pieces of great bignesse: there are in it foure Townes of the Bishopricke [ 60] of Quito, for the Captaine Iohn of Salinas did build them. The Citie of Valladolid is in seuen de∣grees height, twentie leagues from Loxa to the South-east, hauing past the Rowe of Piru, the Ci∣tie of Loyola, or Cumbruania is sixteene leagues to the East from Valladolid: the Citie of Saint Iames of the Mountaynes, fiftie leagues from Loyola, toward the East, and in her borders much gold, and very high in touch, and as touching the gold we need not intreat of his excellencies,

being holden for the Supreame power in the World.* 2.338 It is gotten in these Mynes in three man∣ners: The first is in Pippens, which are whole pieces without mixture of any other Metall, that need not to be purified by fire, and these graines commonly are like a Pompeon Seed, and some∣times bigger: of this gold is found but litle, in respect of the rest. The second sort is in stone, which is a vaine that groweth in the stone it selfe, and these stones are found in the gouernment of Iohn of Salinas very great, all passed through with gold, and some which are halfe Gold, the which is found in Pits and Mynes, and it is hard to worke. The third, is gotten in powder, and is the grea∣test quantitie, and this is found in Riuers, or in places where some streame of water hath passed, and the Riuers of these Indies haue many, especially in the Kingdoms of Chile, Quito, New Realme [ 10] of Granada, and in the beginning of the Discoueries, there were many in the * 2.339 Weather I∣lands. The highest in touch is that of Carabaya in the Piru, and that of Valdiuia in Chile, for it reacheth to twentie three Charracts and an halfe, and yet it passeth.

THat which is called Piru, is proper and particularly the bounds of the Councell of los Reyes, and is comprehended North and South,* 2.340 from sixe vnto seuen Southerne degrees of altitude, which are two hundred and twentie leagues, though in Voyage they put three hundred from the point del Aguia, beyond Payta, whereby it ioyneth with the Councell of Quito, till passing the Citie and Port of Arequipa, where beginneth the Councell of the Charcas, East and West. The inhabited part of this Councell hath about one hundred leagues from the Coast of the South Sea toward the East, whereby her bounds remayne open vnto the Prouinces of the Riuer of Plate, and [ 20] of Brasill,* 2.341 that which is from the Rowe, where, as hath beene said, it rayneth continually, vnto the Sea, they call the Plaines of Piru, in the which it neither rayneth nor thundreth, because the great height of the Mountain doth shelter the Plaines in such sort, that it permitteth no wind from the Earth to blow, whereby the Sea wind reigneth, which hauing no contrary doth not re∣presse the vapours that doe arise to make raine, in sort that the shelter of the Hill hindereth the thickning of the vapours: and this want of matter causeth that in that Coast the vapours are so thinne, that they make no more then a moyst or dankish mist, which is profitable for their sow∣ings, which haue not without the h 2.342 mist so much vertue, be they neuer so much watered. The Countrey is all sandie grounds, except the Valleyes which are made by courses of the Riuers, that descend from the Mountayne, where much Corne is gathered by the waterings, Wine, [ 30] Oyle, Sugar, and the other Seeds, and Fruits, of Castile, and of the Countrey. In the skirts and hils sides of the Mountayne, are great Pastures and breedings of cattell, and the temper variable, and as would be desired; for the height is cold, and the low hot, and the middlemost partakers of the extreames, as they are more or lesse neere them. The gouernment of this Councell, and of Quito, and of the Charcas, is in the charge of the Vice-roy, and there are the Townes following in the circuit of this Councell.

The Citie of the Kings (or of Lima, because the Valley is so called, which was the name of the Cazique, and it is the greatest and broadest Valley, of all those that are from Tumbez vnto it) stands neere the South Sea, in twelue degrees of Southerne altitude, and eightie two from the Meridian of Toledo, distant from it about one thousand eight hundred and twentie leagues by a [ 40] greater circle: it hath aboue three thousand housholds: the Marques Don Franciscus Piçarro built it, in the beginning of the yeere 1533. because suspecting that the President Don Peter of Aluarado would come downe to the Sea coast, when hee went with an Host from Guatemala meanewhile that Don Iames of Aluarado went to resist him to the Prouinces of Quito, hee went to intercept him the passages of the Sea. Neere this citie, on the East side, passeth a Riuer from whence all the houses doe take water, and their gardens, wherein are excellent fruits of Castile and of the Countrie, and it is one of the best Climates of the World, seeing there is neither fa∣mine nor pestilence; nor doth it rayne or thunder, nor fall there any thunder-bolts or light∣nings, but the Heauen is alwayes cleere and very faire.

In this Citie is resident the Vice-roy, the Royall Councell, an assembly of chiefe Iustices, the [ 50] Officers of the Kings Rents,* 2.343 and treasurie Royall, the Tribunall of the holy and generall Inqui∣sition, which was founded when the Inquisition of New Spaine was. The Inquisitor generall in these Kingdomes was then the Cardinall Don Iames of Espinosa Bishop of Siguença, it hauing proceeded with mature deliberation, for the augmenting of our holy Catholike Faith, and Chri∣stian Religion. There is also in this Citie an Vniuersitie, where very learnedly the Sciences are read,* 2.344 and Schooles of diuers languages of the Indians, in the which the Fathers of the Companie of Iesus are very diligent, to reape fruit in the preaching of the Gospell. In this Citie is the Arch∣episcopall resident, whose Suffraganes are the Bishops of Chile, Charcas, Cuzco, Quito, Panama, Nicaragua, and the Riuer of Plate. There are three Parishes, and fiue Monasteries of the foure Orders, and of the Companie of Iesus, and two of Nunnes. Callao which is her Port, is two [ 60] leagues from it, great, capable, and very good, where are store of houses, one of Iustice, a custome House, one Church, and one Monasterie of Dominicke Friars: here hath beene seeene the Wine and the Water set to coole in the Sea in flaggons, whence it is inferred that the Ocean hath the vertue to temper and refresh the ouer-much heate. Many doe affirme that in this Citie are

twelue thousand Women of all Nations, and twentie thousand blacke-Moores.* 2.345

The Village of Arnedo in the Valley of Chancai, is ten leagues from The Kings, and halfe a league from the Sea, with a Monasterie of Dominicke Friars, rich of Vines: the Earle of Nieua built it. The Village of the * 2.346 Parrilla, or Santa, is by the Valley where it stands, fiftie fiue leagues from The Kings, and fifteene from Truxillo neere the Sea, neere to a great and faire Riuer, with a good Hauen, in nine degrees, where the ships that saile by the coast of Piru doe touch. The Ci∣tie of Truxillo is in the Valley of Chimo, which Don Iames of Almagro plotted first,* 2.347 and after∣ward the Marq••es Don Franciscus Piçarro built it in the yeere 1533. It hath many Vines and fruits of Castile, and Wheat: it is all watered ground, and a wholesome Countrie, and there bee [ 10] great Orchards of Oranges, and breeding of Poultrie. It stands in seuen degrees and a halfe, eigh∣tie leagues from Lima neere the Sea, with Monasteries of Saint Dominicke, Saint Francis, and Saint Augustine, and another of the Mercenaries, and Officers Royall, prouided by the Vice-roy: and in her bounds about fiftie thousand tributarie Indians, in two and fortie repartitions. The Port is two leagues off in an open Bay, euill, and of little securitie. The Village of Miraflores is in the Valley of Zana, ninetie fiue leagues from the Citie of The Kings to the North side,* 2.348 and neere to the Sea. The Citie of Chachapoyas, or Saint Iohn of the Frontier, is about one hundred and twentie leagues from the Citie of The Kings to the North-east,* 2.349 it hath one Monasterie of the Mercenaries, and another of the Franciscans: in her bounds are Wheat, Millet, and Flaxe, ma∣ny Mynes of gold, and more then twentie thousand tributarie Indians, which held out valorously [ 20] a long time against the Ingas, but in the end they were ouer-come, and for greater quietnesse of the Countrie they carried many of them vnto Cuzco, and they inhabited in a Hill which is cal∣led Carmenga. These are the whitest and best fauoured Indians of all the Indies,* 2.350 and the Women very faire. The Marshall Alfonsus of Aluarado, entred in this Prouince the yeere 1536. by or∣der of the Marques Don Francisco Piçarro, and pacified it, and built the said Citie in a strong situa∣tion called Leuanto, and afterward he passed to the Prouince of the Guancas.

The Citie of Saint Iames of the Valleys, or Moyobamba,* 2.351 more then one hundred leagues from The Kings North-eastward, and fiue and twentie from Saint Iohn of the Frontier, stands in a ve∣ry raynie soile, and plentifull of Cattell. The Citie of Lion of the Guanuco,* 2.352 fiftie leagues from the Citie of The Kings to the North, neere the high-way of the Ingas, somwhat distant towards [ 30] the East, hath Monasteries of Dominicans, Franciscans, and Mercenaries, and in her bounds thirtie thousand tributarie Indians, Anno 1539. for the warre that the Tyrant Yllotopa made to this Pro∣uince, the Marques Don Franciscus Piçarro sent Captaine Gomez of Aluarado which built it, and afterward it was disinhabited, and Peter Barroso reedified it, and after the battell of Chupas the Licentiate Vaca de Castro, sent Captaine Pedro de Puelles to make an end of the plantation. It stands in a good and wholesome situation, abundant of victuals and Cattell: it hath Mynes of siluer, and the people is of good capacitie. They reape much Wheat, for the Indians haue lear∣ned to be good husbandmen: for as before in these Indies there was no Wheat, nor Barley, nor Millet, nor Panick, nor any seede of the bread of Castile of Europe, and they knew other kindes of Graine and Rootes, only of the which Mayz or Millet was the principall, being found in all [ 40] the Indies; the Countrimen haue since delighted much in it,* 2.353 and haue receiued it well in those places where it is gathered, because the Mayz is not so strong nor of so much substance as the Wheat: it is fatter, and hot, and engendreth bloud, it groweth in Canes, and beareth one or two bunches, and some Spaniards doe eate it where they haue no other shift.

The Citie of Guamanga, or Saint Iuan of the Victorie,* 2.354 sixtie leagues from Lima to the South-east, in the way of the Ingas, Bishoprick of Cuzco, hath Monasteries of Dominicans, Franciscans, and Mercenaries, and one of Nunnes, and in her bounds more then thirtie thousand tributarie In∣dians: it is plentifull of Wheate and Wine, and rich of siluer Mynes. The Marques Don Fran∣ciscus Piçarro built this Citie 1539. and placed it the first time in a towne of Indians called Gua∣manga, neere to the great Row of the Andes, and left for his Lieftenant the Captaine Francisco de [ 50] Cardenyas. Afterward it was remoued to the Playne where now it is, neere to certaine small Hills on the South side, and nigh to a Brooke of good water. In this Citie are the best houses in Piru, of stone and bricke; the seate is healthfull, without offence of the Sunne, the Aire, the Deaw, or the Moisture, or the Heate. There are found in her borders certaine great buildings (which the Indians say certaine white men with beards, which came thither before the Ingas,* 2.355 did build) much differing from the building of the Ingas: the most of the Countrimen of this Countrie are Mitimaes, which is to say, Transplanted, for the Ingas did vse for the greater secu∣ritie of the Empire, to take from one Prouince the people they did not trust,* 2.356 and send them to liue in another.

Guamanga is sixtie leagues from Cuzco, and in the way are the Hills and Playne of Chupas, where Vaca de Castro, and Don Iames de Almagro the yonger did fight; and forward are the buil∣dings of Vilcaf, in the high way in Andabaylas, eleuen leagues from Guamanga, which was the [ 60] centre of the Ingas; and here was the great Temple of the Sunne. The Prouince of the Anda∣baylas is long and hath much tame Cattell, and victualls;* 2.357 from thence they come to the Riuer of Abancay, nine leagues neerer Cuzco, where the President Don Iames of Almagro the elder ouer∣threw

and apprehended Alfonso of Aluarado, Generall of the Marques Don Francisco Piçarro. There followeth the Riuer of Apurima, eight leagues from Passado, or the Passage, which is very great; and then the Hill of Vilcaconga, where the said President Almagro ouer-came a great bat∣tell of the Indians, before he won Cuzco, and the Valley of Xaquixaguana is neere betweene two rowes of Hills, not broad nor long, where the President Pedro la Gasca, by the vertue of those va∣liant and faithfull Captaines Ynojosa, Peter of Va••dibia, Gabriel of Rojas, Alfonsus of Aluarado, and others (of the which in their place shall be made mention particularly) did ouer-throw Gon∣çalo Piçarro, and tooke him: and from this Valley to the Citie of Cuzco are fiue leagues: and in this Valley they gather great store of Wheat, and haue great store of Cattell.

[ 10]

* 2.358EIght or ten leagues from the Citie of Guamanga, somewhat North-westward, are the Mynes of Guancabelica, which they call El Assiento de Oropesa, where ordinarily are resident more then three hundred Spaniards. The Indians did worke in them to take out the red Oaker, to paint themselues when in the time of their Paganisme they went to warre, which is the Ver∣million: and the Licenciate Lope Garciae of Castro, gouerning in Piru in the yeere 1566. a Portu∣gall called Henrie Garces, considering that of the Vermillion the quick-siluer is gotten, went to make a triall, and found it to be so. This metall the Romanes carried from Castile in stone, and out of it they got quick-siluer, and held it for great riches. The Indians knew it not, nor minded any more then the vermilion. The greatest profit it yeeldeth, is to purifie the siluer from the earth, Lead,* 2.359 and Copper, wherewith it groweth: it eateth all the other metals, and pierceth them as [ 20] the Tin, Iron, and Lead, and therefore they carry it in leather, or vessels of earth. Quick-siluer serueth also for other effects, and medicinall matters.

* 2.360In this seat of Guania Velica is a spring, that as it springeth it congealeth in a soft stone; of the which they make their houses, and the Men or Beasts that doe drinke it, die: for within the body it conuerteth into a stone. In the Bathes that are called of Inga neere the Cuzco, are two spouts of water the one neere the other,* 2.361 the first is hot, and the second cold, that it see∣meth God did place them there for to temper themselues. In the same bounds is a Spring, that as it springeth it becomes good and white salt:* 2.362 in this place the two great Rowes doe begin to separate themselues, and make in the middest a great Champaine ground, which is called the Prouince of Collao, where are very many Riuers, and there is the great Lake of Titicaca, and [ 30] great pasture grounds. Though it be a plaine Countrie, it hath the same height and distempera∣ture of the Hills; it hath no Trees, nor Wood; the bread that is eaten are rootes that are called Papas, which grow also in all Piru; it is a healthfull Countrie, and much inhabited, and multi∣plieth euery day; it hath store of Cattell of all sorts.

* 2.363The Lake of Titicaca compasseth eightie leagues, and in some places it hath eightie fathom deepe, and in this, and in the waues are raysed when there is any winde, so that it seemeth as a Bay of the Sea, from which it stands about sixtie leagues, twelue or thirteene Riuers en∣ter into it, and many Brookes, and from it goeth a Riuer into another Lake, which they call the Aulagas, which hath no voyding place, though because some Eyes of water haue beene seene that vnder ground goe into the Sea, it is iudged that it might bee the water of [ 40] these Lakes did goe, opening a way through the entrailes of the Earth vnto the Sea. Round about the great Lake are many Townes, and in it great Ilands, with great Tillage in them, and there were the Indians wont to keepe their most precious things for greater securitie.

* 2.364The great Citie of Cuzco, Seate Royall of the Ingas, and Head of their Empire (and now of the Kingdomes of Piru, by a Title which it hath of it from the Kings of Castile and Lion) stands in thirteene degrees and a halfe height, seuentie eight of longitude, one hundred and fiue and twentie leagues from the Citie of The Kings to the South-east, of more then one thou∣sand Spanish housholds; the Marques Don Franciscu•• Piçarro founded it. It hath eight Parishes, and foure Monasteries of the foure Orders, of Saint Dominicke, Saint Francis, Saint Augustine, [ 50] the Mercenaries, and the Companie of Iesus, and one of Nunnes. Heere is resident the Ca∣thedrall, Suffragane to the Archbishopricke of The Kings. There goe from this Citie since the time of the Ingas from the Market place foure high wayes towards the foure parts of the world;* 2.365 one called Chinchasuyo to the North, toward the Playnes and Prouince of Quito: another Condes••yo, to the West toward the Sea: the third called Collaosuyo, to the South and Chile: and the fourth to the East, which they call Andesuyo, which goeth to the Andes and skirts of the Mountaine. It stands in a soile of a good temper, moderately fresh and healthfull, free from all venemous wormes, and plentifull of all things, with a thousand kindes of fruits of Castile,* 2.366 and smelling herbes and flowres at all times which are of great delight. In her iuris∣diction is the Valley of Toyma: there is great trafficke of Coca, and showes of Gold, Siluer, and Quick-siluer; and there may bee in her borders about an hundred thousand tributarie In∣dians. [ 60] In all the parts of these Indies the Indians haue a great delight in carrying ordinarily in the mouth Rootes, Boughes, or Herbes, and that which they most vse in all Piru, is the Coca,* 2.367 for as they say, they feele little hunger, and finde themselues with great vigour

chewing it alwaies, though it rather seemeth a custome inherited, or a vice. This is planted, and groweth to small trees, which are cultiuated and cherished, and yeeld a leafe like myrtle, and dried they carry it in baskets to sell, and much mony is gotten by it.

In the Valley of Vilcabam••a, stands Saint Francis of the victorie in Andesuyo,* 2.368 between the Row of the Andes, about twentie leagues from Cuzco to the East side, with a Gouernour prouided by the Vice-roy: it is of the Bishopricke of Cuzco, in a rough ground, and of great Mountaines.

The village of Saint Iohn del Oro,* 2.369 is in the Prouince of Carabaya eightie leagues from Cuzco to the East South-east, and thirtie to the East from the Lake of Collao, and it is called del Oro, of the Gold, for the great store that is in her borders. The Citie of Arequipa is in sixteen degrees some∣what [ 10] more, one hundred and thirtie leagues from the Citie of The Kings,* 2.370 almost to the South-east as the Coast runneth, and sixtie from the Citie of Cuzco, of the Bishopricke of Cuzco: it hath Monasteries of Dominick••, Franciscans, and Mercenaries; it hath fiftie thousand tributarie Indians, and is of most pleasant temperature to liue in of all places in Piru. They gather in her borders great store of Wine, and Wheat. The Port is at the entrie of the Riuer Chile, which pas∣seth neere the Citie where the merchandize is vnladen.

Arequipa stands in the Valley of Quilca, fourteene leagues from the Sea. In her iurisdiction is the Prouince of Condesuyo, the Townes of the Hubinas, Gollagu••••, Chiquiguanita, and Quimi∣staca; the Marques Don Francisco Piçarro built it 1534. it is very subiect to earth-quakes as all these Indies, especially the Sea coasts. In the yeere 1582. there was an earth-quake that almost [ 20] ruinated this Citie, and since there hath beene another, and a breaking out of a fierie mouth,* 2.371 whereof they tell strange things, in the yeere 1586. There was another in the Citie of the Kings the ninth of Iuly, which ran one hundred and seuentie leagues in length by the Sea side, and fiftie within the Land; it spoyled the Citie, indangered few people, because they went out into the fields, and a little after the earth-quake was past, the Sea went out of her bounds, and entred a great way within the Land fourteene fathom deepe. Such another earth-quake was in Quito the next yeere, in the Citie of la Paz in the yeere 1581. a great high Rocke fell which tooke vnder it a great many Indian witch trees, and the earth which fell did run one league and a halfe. In Chile was another great earth-quake that ouer-threw Mountaines and Valleys, stopped the Cur∣rent of the Riuers, brought the Sea out of her limits the space of some leagues, cast downe whole [ 30] Townes, and slue many men. The Philosophers say that the earth-quake proceedeth from the heate of the Sunne, and of other celestiall Bodies,* 2.372 which not onely doe draw the exhalation to themselues, and the vapour of the superficies of the earth, but that also which is in the bowels of it, which comming out engendreth windes and raynes; and if it happen that the earth is so close that the exhalation cannot come out any way, then it mooueth from one part to another through the pores of the earth, with great violence breaking forth, as the powder in a Myne, tearing with such a furious rage, that it ••en••eth the earth where it is, and openeth it selfe a way with great furie, and so much more furiou•• it is, how much more the exhalation inclosed is greater.

The Village of Saint Michael de la Ribera is sixe leagues from the Sea,* 2.373 in the Valley of Ca∣mana, one hundred and thirteene leagues from The Kings, two and twentie from Arequ••pa to the [ 40] part of the Equinoctiall, of the Bishopricke of Cuzco. The Village of Valverde in the Valley of Yca, fiue and thirtie leagues from the Citie of The Kings, ten from the Port of Sangalla,* 2.374 is of the iurisdiction of The Kings, and of the Archbishopricke; her borders are plentifull of Wheat, Mil∣let, and Fruits, and of much Wine.

The Village of Cauyete, or of Guarco, by the Valley where it stands▪ is distant from The Kings fiue and twentie leagues to the South, one league and a halfe from the Sea:* 2.375 her bounds are plen∣tifull of bread the best of this Kingdome, whence is carried great quantitie of meale to Terra firme. Before the comming to this Valley, are the Valleys of Chilca▪ and Mala; in the first it neuer rayneth, neither passeth any Fountaine nor Brooke through it; and they thinke of the Wells, and it is full of arable grounds, and fruits, which grow onely by the deaw of the Heauen.* 2.376 [ 50] They catch many Pilcherds in the Sea, and with euery graine of Millet they put into the hole where it is sowen one or two of the heads, and with that moysture i•• groweth well. In the Valley of Mala, Don Iames of Almagro, and Don Franciscu•• Piçarro being in quarrell, the fa∣ther Bouadilla of the Merced or Mercenarie Order, as an Arbitrator resolued their differences; through this Valley passeth a great Riuer, which doth them great pleasure. Fiue leagues for∣ward is the Riuer of Guarco in a Valley most plentifull in all things, where the Countrimen maintayned the warre foure yeeres against the Ingas, and to preserue it they caused to build a Citie, and called it Cuzco, and erected for the triumph of the victorie a great Fortresse on a Hill▪ that the waues of the Sea doe beate vpon the stayres. Sixe leagues from Guarco is the Valley of Chincha, famous, pleasant, and very plentifull, where a Monasterie of Dominicke Friars was [ 60] built in stead of the Temple of the Sunne which the Indians had, with the Monasterie of the Virgins. Then followeth the Valley of Yca, which is no lesse, no•• lesse plentifull, going out of the Valleys, and Riuers of the Nasca, and the principall is called Ca••amalca, where excellent Wines are made. They goe from these Valleys to that of Hacari, where stands Ocanna, Camana,* 2.377 and Quilca, which is the Port of the Citie of Arequipa, and forward are the Valleys o•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ and

Tambopalla, and the Deylo, and them of Tarapaca, Riuers and plentifull, with good Mynes of sil∣uer, and neere the Sea: the Indians of the Ilands of The Seales doe carry great store of Fowles dung for their grounds, wherewith of a barren, they make a plentifull ground.

* 2.378There are in the coast of this Councel from the Point del Aguia, of the Needle, where it ioyneth with that of Quito, in sixe degrees of Southerne altitude, the Ilands and Ports following▪ two Ilands which they call de Lobos in seuen degrees, the one foure leagues from the Coast, and the other more to the Sea; and forward another called of Saint Rooke to the South-east, neere to Pazcamayo, and forward Puerto de Mal Abrigo, ten leagues before the Port of Truxillo, in seuen degrees and a halfe, and seuen leagues from the Port of Guanape▪ and of Sanct•• in nine de∣grees, and fiue leagues from this to the South, Porte F••rr••l; and sixe from it that of Ca••ma; and [ 10] afterward eight leagues the Port of Guarmey at the mouth of a Riuer; and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 twentie leagues to the South; and the Port of Gaura where is a very great Salt pit; and after this the Iland of Lima, at the entrie of the Port of Colla••; and twentie leagues to the South the Point of Guarco, and one Iland de Lobos Marinos, or Seale fishe•• neere to it, and the Point of Chica i•• fifteene degrees, and neere to the Nasca; and forward the Point of Saint Laurence, in the Valley of Quilca, and neere the Riuer of Arequipa, and the Creeke of Chulien; and after∣ward the Riuer of Nombre de Dios, where the limits doe ioyne by the Coast of the Counsels of The Kings, and of Charcas.

* 2.379THe bounds of the Counsell of Charcas (which parteth limits with that of The Kings, stands in twentie degrees and a halfe of Southerne altitude, by the Riuer of Nombre d•• Dios, and [ 20] the beginning of the Lake of Collao) hath in length three hundred leagues vnto the Valley of Copiapo, beginning of the Prouince of Chile in eight and twentie degrees of height, though in voyage they are reckoned neere foure hundred leagues East and West, that which is betweene of the South Sea vnto the North Sea, or South which answereth to the Prouinces of the Riuer of Plate, which though it is not altogether discouered, it is vnderstood that by placing all the Coun∣trie of this Counsell in much altitude, it is more cold then hot.

The Gouernment of this Counsell, is at the charge of the Vice-roy of Piru, as that of the Counsell of Quito, and of The Kings: there are two Gouernours, and two Bishopricks, that of Charcas and Tucuman. The Prouince of the Charcas (which commonly is named that which is [ 30] from the bounds of the Counsell of The Kings, till they passe Potosi) hath in length North and South about one hundred and fiftie leagues, and as many East and West; a Countrie not very plentifull, though abundant of Cattell, especially in C••llao, that is from the Lake of Titicaca vn∣to Charcas, where the Winter and Summer are contrarie to Europe: it is a plentifull Countrie of all Cattell, especially of sheepe, which are many, and of a very fine wooll.

In this Prouince are foure Townes of Spaniards of one Bishopricke, which are the Citie of the Plate, which the Captaine Peranzures inhabited, in the yeere 1583. by order of the Marques Don Franciscus Piçarro. It stands in seuentie two degrees of longitude from the Meridian of Toledo, from whence it may be distant by a greater circle one thousand seuen hundred and eightie leagues, and in nineteene degrees of latitude, one hundred seuentie fiue leagues from Cuzco to the South, or [ 40] Antartick Pole within the Tropicks, in the vttermost of the Torrid Zone. There are in the bor∣ders of this Citie in Chacaras (which are manured grounds) eight hundred Spanish housholds.* 2.380 It is a Countrie extreme cold, whereas it should be temperate or hot, according to the height of the Pole it stands in: the Counsell and the Cathedrall is resident in this Citie, and there are Mona∣steries of Dominicke, Franciscan, Augustines, and Mercenarie Friars, and in her iurisdiction sixtie thousand tributarie Indians, diuided in nine and twentie repartitions, and the seedes of Castile doe grow well, and there are many rich mynes of siluer.

* 2.381The Citie of our Lady of the Peace, by another name the New Towne, and Chuquiab••, in the middest of the Collao, one hundred leagues from Cuzco, and eightie from the Plate, hath Mona∣steries of Franciscans, Augustines, and Mercenaries, with store of Wines and Cattell. Captaine [ 50] Alfonsus of Mendoça built it 1549. when was President the Gouernour of Piru, the Licenciate Pedro de la Gasca,* 2.382 afterward Bishop of Sig••••••ça. The Prouince of Chicuito in Collao, somewhat North-east from the Prouince of Plata, more then an hundred leagues from it, inhabited by Indi∣ans, with a Spanish Gouernour, of the Bishopricke of Charcas, and one Monasterie of Dominicks, hath much Cattell,* 2.383 and it stands at the border of Titicaca. Oropesa, is a plantation of the Vice-roy Don Francisco de Toledo, in the Valley of Cocha••••mba, twentie leagues from the Citie of la Plata; their husbandrie is crops of Wheat, Millet, and Cattell.

* 2.384The Imperiall Towne of Potosi is in nineteene degrees of altitude, eighteene leagues from the Citie of the Plate, and about eight from the Lake of the A••laga•• to the East, in the skirt of the Hill of Potosi, that looketh to the North-east▪ it hath fiue hundred housholds of Spaniards [ 60] which doe attend the mynes, and of Merchants, and about 50000. Indians of ordinarie goer•• and comme•••• to the trafficke of the siluer. And though it be a Towne of it selfe, it hath no Ruler, but that of the citie de la Plata. There reside the Officers, and Royall treasurie of this Prouince, for the mynes of the Hill of Potosi, which a Castillane discouered 1545. called Villaroel, by meanes of cer∣taine

Indians; and it is called Potosi, because the Indians doe so call Hills and high places; and the siluer was so much that they got at the beginning in the yeere 1549. euery Saturday, that when they cast it, there came to the Kings fists from fiue and twentie to thirtie thousand Pesos. The Hill is flat and bare, their habitation drie and cold, vnpleasant, and altogether barren. It bringeth forth no fruit, graine or herbe, and because of the siluer it is the greatest inhabiting of the Indies, which hath about two leagues in circuit, and where all kinde of dainties are found, and plentie, though brought thither by carriages. The colour of the ground of the Hill draweth towards red, darke. The forme is like a Sugar loafe, that ouer-peareth all the other Hills that are neere it: the going vp is rough, and yet they goe vp on horse-backe; it extendeth a league, and from his top to the foote is about a quarter of a league. It hath on all sides rich [ 10] veines of siluer, from the top to the foote,* 2.385 and the Port of Arica whereby the merchan∣dize come, and the siluer of this Hill is carried, is from it about ninetie leagues, almost West.

Sixe leagues from the aforesaid Hill in the way of the Port of Arica, is the Hill of Porco,* 2.386 an ancient seate of Mynes of siluer: whence it is affirmed the Ingas got the greatest part of the siluer that was in the Temple of the Sunne of Curianche, whence yet is and will much siluer be gotten.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra stands one hundred leagues from the Charcas to the East, in the way whereby they goe from the Charcas to the Assumption, in the Prouinces of the Riuer of Plate,* 2.387 whitherto they make three hundred leagues iourney, with a Gouernour prouided by the Vice∣roy, of the Diocesse of the Charcus, and one Monasterie of Mercenaries, in a Countrie scarce of water, though plentifull of Wheat, Wine, and Millet. This Prouince hath neighbour∣hood [ 20] with many Nations of Infidell Indians, and many of them are alreadie baptized, and the first that strooke a deuotion in the Countrimen, was a Spanish Souldier, * 2.388 that was among them, fled for faults; which for a great anguish they were in for water made them a great Crosse, and perswaded them to worship with great deuotion that same Crosse, and to aske water; and God for his mercy heard them, and sent them much raine in the yeere 1560. The Cap∣taine Nuflo of Chaues went out of the Citie of the Ascention in the Riuer of Plate, to disco∣uer, and comming to Sancta Cruz of the Hill, hauing made great discoueries, the people came vnto him, and seeming to him that hee was neere to Piru, went to the Citie of The Kings, where the Marques of Cauyete was Vice-roy, and with his order, and for Lieftenant of his sonne Don Garcia of Mendoça, the Captaine Nuflo of Chaues went againe to inhabit this Citie, [ 30] though he came out of the Riuer of Plate, with purpose to discouer the Prouinces of the Dorado.

In the Coast of this Councell,* 2.389 which beginneth in seuenteene degrees and a halfe in the Ri∣uer of Nombre de Dios, or Tambopalla: is the Port of Hilo neere to a Riuer, in eighteene de∣grees and a halfe, and more to the South, El Morro de los Diablos, and the Port of Arica in nineteene degrees one third part, and that of Tacama in one and twentie, and the Point of Ta∣rapaca to the South, and more forward the Riuer of Pica, and that de la Hoia, or of the Leafe, and of Montelo, the Port of Mex〈…〉〈…〉s; and more to the South the Point of the Beacones,* 2.390 or Morto Moreno, before the Bay and Riuer of Sancta Clara, and more to the South the Breach, and the White point, and the Deepe breach, and the Riuer of Sancta Clara▪* 2.391 about thirtie [ 40] leagues from the Riuer of Copiapo, where the Coast of Chile beginneth, and the Coast of the Charcas endeth. The Prouince and Gouernment of Tucaman, is all Mediterrane; her bound begins from the Countrie of the Chichas, which are of the iurisdiction of the Imperiall village of Potosi: it stands in the same Line of the Citie of the Assumption of the Riuer of Plate, about an hundred leagues from the South Sea coast; it doth confine with the Prouince of Chile, it is a Countrie of a good temper, reasonably plentifull, and vntill now without Mynes of siluer, or gold. There is in it some Spanish Townes in one Bishopricke, which are of the Citie of Saint Iago del Estero, which at the beginning they named del Varco, or of the Boate,* 2.392 in eight and twentie degrees of altitude, one hundred eightie fiue leagues from Potosi to the South, declining somewhat to the East: the Gouernour and the Officers of the goods, and treasurie Royall, and the Bishop, and the Cathedrall are resident here.

[ 50] The Citie of Saint Marie of Talauera, is fiue and fortie leagues from Saint Iames to the North,* 2.393 and fortie from Potosi in sixe and twentie degrees. The Citie of Saint Michael of Tucuman eight and twentie leagues from Saint Iames to the West, in the way of the Charcas in seuen and twentie degrees. There were inhabited in this Gouernment in the time of Don Garcia of Men∣doça, his father the Marques of Cauyete being Vice-roy, the New London, and Calchaque, which they called h 2.394 New wisedome, in the Prouince of the Iurias, and Draguita, which after∣ward were dishabited within a few yeeres. The people of this Countrie goeth clothed in wool∣len, and in wrought leather, made by arte like the guilt or wrought leather of Spaine: they breed much Cattell of the Countrie, by reason of the profit of their wooll: they haue the Townes ve∣ry neere the one to the other, and the Townes are small, because there is but one kindred in eue∣ry [ 60] one, they are compassed round about with l 2.395 Cardones, and thornie trees for the warres that they had among themselues. They are great husbandmen, and it is a people that is not drunke, for they are not giuen to drinke, as other Nations of the Indies. There are in the Prouince seuen mayne Riuers, and more then eightie Brookes of good waters, and great pastures▪ the Winter

and the Summer are at such times as in Spaine: it is a healthfull Countrie and of a good temper, and the first that entred in it, were the Captaines Diego de Rojas, Philip Gutierres, and Nicolas de Heredia; they discouered on this side the Riuer of Plate vnto the Fortresse of Gabota.

* 2.396DOn Diego de Almagro was prouided the yeere 1534. in Toledo for Gouernour of two hun∣dred leagues of ground beyond the Gouernment of the Marques Don Francisco Piçarro, to∣ward the Streight of Magellan, intituling this part, The new gouernment of Toledo. Hee went to pacifie this Countrie, and because he forsooke it, it was giuen in charge to the Marques Don Fran∣cisco Piçarro 1537. and he commended it 1540. to the Captaine Peter of Valdinia; who went thither with one hundred and fiftie Spaniards. All the Countries of this Kingdome lye to the South of the Equinoctiall, in a more Southerne altitude then the Kingdome of Piru, and her Pro∣uinces [ 10] within the Torride, from the Equinoctiall vnto the Tropicke of Capricorne, which passeth a Desart, which they call of Atacama, which is from twentie three to twentie sixe degrees, and then beginneth the Kingdome of Chile, which the Indians call Chille, and before the inhabited Countrie is the Riuer of The Salt,* 2.397 in three and twentie degrees and three quarters, which from the East side of the Row of Mountaines, runneth to the West into the Sea, through a very deepe Valley, and though it hath the water very cleere; all that the Horses are wet with it when they drinke, is congealed with the heate of the Sunne; and it is so meere salt that it cannot bee drunke, and in the borders it is congealed: the Riuer is before the entring in the first Prouince of Chile two and twentie leagues where the Xagueyes are, which are Wells of water, for there is no other in the two and twentie leagues, and all the Kingdome stands within the Zone, which [ 20] the ancient men called Deserte, which is inhabited with white Indians, and it is situated on the borders of the South Sea, which is Mare Magnum, which is included betweene her Coast and the Coast of China.

This Gouernment taken largely vnto the Streight, hath in length North and South, from the Valley of Copiapo where it beginneth in seuen and twentie degrees, fiue hundred leagues, and in breadth East and West, from the South Sea to the North Sea, from foure hundred to fiue hun∣dred of ground to be pacified, which doth straighten it selfe, till it remayneth by the Streight in ninetie or in an hundred leagues. That which is inhabited of this Gouernment, may bee three hundred along the North Sea coast, and the breadth of it twentie leagues and lesse, vnto the Rowe [ 30] of the Andes, which doe end neere the Streight, and it passeth through this Kingdome very high, and almost couered at all times with snow. All the Countrie is plaine, at the least there is no great roughnesse, except where the Rowe of Piru doth reach, and doth end within two or three leagues of the Coast.

The temper and qualitie of it (though it bee not without some difference for the varieties of the heights it standeth in altogether) is of the best, and most inhabitable that is in the Indies, in temperature like vnto Castile, in whose opposite altitude i•• ••••lleth almost all, and in abundance and goodnesse of victuals, and plentie of all things, riches of Mynes and Metals, and force and vi∣gour of the Countrimen, which for being so great warriors haue alwayes beene euill to pacifie, and there bee many out in the Mountaines, and Breaches of the end of the Rowe, the Prouinces of [ 40] Arauco, Tucapel, and the Valley of Pur••n, the bounds and borders betweene the Citie of the Conception, and los Confines, and la Imperial.

In this Gouernment are eleuen Spanish Townes, with a Gouernour placed in the matters of the Gouernment to the Vice-roy, and Councell of Piru, after the Councell that was in the Countrie was taken away; and there is in it two Bishopricks Suffraganes to the Archbishoprick of the Kings.* 2.398 In the Bishopricke of Saint Iames are foure Townes. The Citie of Saint Iames in the time of the first inhabiting of Chile, founded by Captaine Peter of Valdinia, it stands in thir∣tie foure degrees and a quarter of altitude, seuentie seuen of longitude, one thousand nine hun∣dred and eightie leagues from Toledo by a direct Line, fifteene from the Sea, and ten beyond the Valley of Chile, which they named at the first New Extreame. In it is the Cathedrall resident [ 50] with Monasteries of Dominicke, Franciscan, and Mercenarie Friars, in a plentifull soile of wheat, Wine, and other things, and of very rich Mynes of gold, and in her iurisdiction more then eigh∣tie thousand Indians in sixe and twentie repartitions. This Citie is serued of the Port of Valpa∣rayso at the mouth of the Riuer Topocalma, which passeth neere vnto it.

* 2.399Captaine Valdinia peopled also la Serena in the yeere 1544. neere to a good Hauen; it is the first Towne of Spaniards, at the en••••ie of Chile sixtie leagues from the Citie of Saint Iames, some∣what North-west neere to the Sea in the Valley of Coquimbo, with Monasteries of Franciscan, and Mercenarie Friars.* 2.400 It rayneth in it but three or foure times a yeere, and in the Countries be∣fore it, it neuer rayneth. The Port which they call of Coquimbo, stands in two and thirtie de∣grees, it is a good Nooke where the ships of Piru doe make a stay. In the Prouince of Chucuito, which is on the other side of the Rome of the Andes, in a cold and barren Countrie, doe stand the [ 60] Citie of Mendoça, and of Saint Iohn of the Frontier; for Don Garcia of Mendoça peopled them both.* 2.401 The Citie of Mendoça is of the same height with Saint Iames, about fortie leagues from it, of a difficult way, for the snow that is in the Andes. The Citie of Saint Iohn of the Frontier stands to the South of the Citie of Mendoça.

In the Bishopricke of the Imperiall are seuen Spanish Townes, which are the Citie of the Conception in seuen and thirtie degrees of height, seuentie leagues to the South of the Citie of Saint Iames, neere to the Sea, Peter Valdinia inhabited it in the yeere 1550. The Gouernours are resident in it, since the Councell (that was there from the yeere 1567. vnto 1574.) was taken away. There are Monasteries of Dominicans, Franciscans, and Mercenarie Friar••. The Port of this Citie stands in a nooke at the shelter of an Iland. The Citie of the new village of los Infantes, or los Confines; Don Garcia of Mendoça peopled it▪* 2.402 and the Gouernour Villagran commanded it to be called d•• los Confines. It stands sixteene leagues from the Conception to the side of the Streight, eight leagues from the Row of the Andes, and foure from that which goeth [ 10] along the Coast. It hath one Monasterie of Dominicans, another of Franciscan Friars. The war∣like Indian come to the bounds of this Citie, and the mayne Riuer Biobio by them, and others which doe enter into it, and the Riuer Ninequeten.

Peter of Valdinia peopled the Citie of the Imperiall 1••51. which is in nine and thirtie de∣grees of height, nine and thirtie leagues from the Conception toward the Streights side,* 2.403 three leagues from the Sea, where the Cathedrall is resident with one Monasterie of Franciscans, ano∣ther of Mercenarie Friars; and in her bounds are more then eightie thousand Indians, with many other that in her bounds are in armes. The Riuer Cauten passeth neere it, which is na∣uigable to the Sea, though the Hauen bee not good nor secure. Captaine Valdinia peopled also the * 2.404 Rich Village, sixteene leagues from Imperiall, about the South-eastward, and [ 20] about foure and fortie from the Conception, neere to the Snowy Row d 2.405, with one Monaste∣rie of Franciscans, another of Mercenaries, in a Countrey cold and barren of Bread and Wine.

The Citie of Valdinia in two leagues off the Sea,* 2.406 and fiftie from the Conception to the Streight ward: peopled also by Captaine Valdinia, with Monasteries of Dominicans, Fran∣ciscans, and Mercenaries, in a plentifull Countrie of Wheat, and Seedes, and in places of good pastures for Cattell, and without Vines. The merchandize comes vp by the Riuer of Val∣dinia, which passeth neere it,* 2.407 and the Port stands in the mouth of it in fortie degrees of height. The Citie of Os••rno, Don Garcia of Mendoça peopled, sixtie leagues or more from the Conception to the port of the Streight, seuen leagues from the Sea. It hath one Monasterie [ 30] of Dominicans, another of Franciscans, with another of Nunnes, in a cold Countrie, scarce of victuals, but of much gold, and in her bounds two hundred thousand Indians of repartition. The Citie of Castro, which was inhabited by the Licenciate Lope Garcia de Castro,* 2.408 being Go∣uernour of the Kingdomes of Piru, the which is called in the Indian tongue Chilue, which is the last of the inhabited in Chile, in an Iland of those that are in the Lake of Aucud, or Chilue, and the Archipelagus stands in three and fortie degrees of altitude, one and fortie leagues to the South of Osorno, with a Monasterie of Franciscans, with twelue thousand Indians of re∣partition in her bounds, for it is an Iland of fiftie leagues in length, and from two vntill nine in breadth, which the Sea made with other great ones, tearing the Land vnto the Row of the Andes. It is a mountaynous Countrey, and close, plentifull of Wheate, and [ 40] of Millet, and Mynes of flying g 2.409 Gold, on the Strand a thing fewe times, or sel∣dome seene.

The Gouernour Villagran tooke away the name of the Citie which was Cauyete,* 2.410 that Don Garcia of Mendoça inhabited, and commanded to call it Tucapel, and afterward disinhabited it. There are in this Gouernment which beginneth in two and twentie degrees, the Port and Riuer of Copeapo, and to the South of it, the Port of Guascoin another Riuer, and the Riuer of Coquimbo in two and thirtie degrees: and past this the Port of the Cigua in the Riuer, and the Port of Quintero at the mouth of the Riuer of Concagua, before the Port of Saint Iames, or Valparayso, and the Port of Topocalma in the Riuer of Maypa: and past the Riuer of Maule the Port of the e 2.411 Herradura, at the mouth of the Riuer Itata, before the Port of the Conception [ 50] in the great Riuer of Biobio to the North, the Iland of Saint Marie right against the State of Aranco, and the Port of Cauyete, and the Iland of Mocha more to the South, and the Port of Cauten, which is that of the Imperiall, and to the South the landing place and the Riuer of Tol∣ten before the Port of Valdinia, and past this the Point of the Galley, and more to the South the great Bay or Port of Osorno in the Riuer de las Canoas, and to the South of it about thirtie leagues to the Lake de los Coronados the broadest Riuer of this Realme, and at the end of this Realme the Lake of Aucud.

MEn doe call the Streight of Magellanes, that which is past the Riuer of Plate by the South Sea; from the last of Chile, vnto the Streight two hundred leagues before it,* 2.412 from two and fortie or three and fortie degrees of altitude, vnto two and fiftie and more, for although [ 60] men haue sayled through both the Seas diuers times, and seene people in them vnto the Streight it selfe, it hath not beene pacified, nor made inhabiting, but that which the fleete that Diego Flores de Valdes carried to the Streight left in the mouth of the Streight on the North side, in the yeere 1582. which was called the Citie of Saint Philip, which for being in so much altitude could

[illustration]

[illustration] map of Strait of Magellan

HONDIVS his Map of the MAGELLAN Streight.

FRETUM Magella∣ni.

not be preserued for the great cold, and therefore that nauigation is difficult and dangerous for the continuall tempests, and great stormes of windes that are at all times. [ 40]

* 2.413The Ports, Capes, and Points of the Coast of the one and the other Sea vnto the Streighr, al∣though they be many, and some are not pointed in the Cardes of Nauigation, it appeareth not wholly, neither is there any certaine relation of all. And the most knowne of the Coast from Chile vnto the Streight, which runneth from Valdinia about an hundred leagues to the West South-west are, the Cape of Saint Andrew in seuen and fortie degrees, from whence the Coast turneth directly to the South vnto the Streight, by the Cape of Saint Roman in eight and fortie degrees, and neere vnto it the Iland of Saint Catalina, neere to the great Bay which they call g 2.414 Hartichoked, and within it the Bay of our Lady, and the Iland of Santa Barbara, and more for∣ward the Ports of Hernan Gallego in eight and fortie degrees two third parts, and the Bay of The Kings eighteene leagues from the Port of Hernan Gallego, and the Bay of Saint Iohn in fiftie de∣grees [ 50] one third part, the Cape of Saint Francisco in one and fiftie, whereby some Channels doe enter into the Land, and the Iland de la Campana, or of the Bell, eleuen leagues from Saint Fran∣cis: also with some Channels which haue not beene nauigated within the Land, and the Bay of Saint Lazarus in two and fiftie degrees, with Channels on the sides, which enter very broad and long to the one and the other parts, which haue not beene nauigated, and a great Sea of I∣lands which alwayes was said to bee at the South side neere to the mouth of the Streight, the which Sir Richard Hawkins denyeth;* 2.415 for hee saith, That at this mouth of the Streight on the South side, he found no more then foure small Ilands, and one in the middest like a Sugar loofe, and that at the least they are distant from the mouth of the Streight sixe leagues, and the great Sea is on the one side, and he holdeth for certaine it is that which they say is the firme Land of [ 60] the South side of the Streight, and that there is no firme land. The Streight though they haue past it from the South to the North side,* 2.416 by order of the Vice-roy Don Franciscus of Toledo, Pe∣ter Sarmiento, and Antonie Pablo Corso, and it is knowne it stands from 52. to 53. degrees of altitude, where it draweth most to the South, and that in length it hath one hundred and ten

••eagues, or one hundred and fifteene, little more or lesse, and in breadth from one to tenne: it hath neuer beene nauigated to an end from the South Sea to the North Sea,* 2.417 nor the Pyrats that haue past it from the North to the South, are vnderstood to haue returned by it. The aboue said Sir Richard Hawkins saith, that he sailed many dayes by the Straight, and affirmeth that all the Countrie on the South side is no firme Land, but many Ilands which reach to 56. degrees; the which he might know, because he sayled to the same 56. degrees through the middest of those Ilands, and seeing he found nothing but Sea, hee followed his course againe through by the Straight, and that this cannot be so farre, the differences of Seas, which the many entrings doe cause that are among those Ilands, and that the habiting of them is of people on the North side, which doe passe to those Ilands to sustaine themselues of fishings, and in their seasons returne to [ 10] their Countries; and that he comprehended this of many things especially of not hauing seene any seated inhabitating, but some Cabbins which the Indians doe make for a time. The same said Sir Francis Drake, that it hapned him when he passed the Straight, the yeare 1579. who after his comming out into the South Sea, he ran along with tempests compassing this Sea, vnto the mouth of the North Sea, and by the same way he had runne, he made sure his nauigation to the South Sea.

The parts most famous of the Straight at the entring of the South are the Cape Desseado, or Desired, in 53. degrees, and the Channell of all Saints, two and twentie leagues from the mouth, very broad, and large, and past it the port of the Treason, and afterward another great large Chan∣nell which runneth to the North-west, and Rowlands Bell, a great Rocke in the middest at the be∣ginning [ 20] of a Channell. They gaue it this name of one of Magellanes fellowes called Rowland, who went to reacknowledge it, which was a Gunner: the point of possession which is foure leagues from the Cape of Virgenes, at the entring of the North Sea in 52. degrees and a halfe of altitude, when Peter * 2.418 Sarmiento, and Antonie Pablo Corso by order which they had to reknow∣ledge the Straight, for it had beene commanded long before for to see if it were a more ea∣sie nauigation to the South Sea, then that of Panama: they viewed the two narrow places, that at the entrie of the North, and it seemed to Peter Sarmiento that the one was so narrow, that with Artillerie it might be kept, and so much he perswaded it,* 2.419 that although the Duke of Alua affirmed it was impossible, the Armie which Iames Flower carried vnfruitfully was sent about it, and in the end was knowne that that nauigation is dangerous, and the flowing of two Seas which [ 30] come to meete in the middest of the Straight, doe withdraw themselues with such furie, ebbing in some places more then sixtie fathoms, that when the Shippes did carry nothing but Ca∣bles to preserue themselues from loosing that which they had sayled, they would goe full froaghted.

In foure hundred leagues, there is of Coast from the mouth of the Straight, vnto the Riuer of Plate, which runneth altogether North-east and South-west, there is the Riuer of Saint Ilefonsus twelue leagues from the Cape of the Virgenes, the a Gallizian Riuor, and the Bay of Saint Iames,* 2.420 foureteene leagues from the Riuer of Sancta Cruz, in 50. degrees, and at the mouth an Iland called of the Lyons, and the Port of Saint Iulian in 49. degrees, and the Riuer of Iohn Serrana to the South [ 40] of the Ilands of Duckes, in 47, degrees, the Riuer of Cananor in 45. degrees, the Cape of Saint Dominicke, before the Cape of three Points, and the Land de los Humos or of the Smoakes, in 38. degrees, the Point of Sancta Hellene, and of Saint Apollonia, in 37. degrees before the White Cape, at the entrie of the Riuer of Plate on the South side.

IOhn Dias de Solis discouered the Riuer of Plate 1515. and Sebastian Gaboe an English-man,* 2.421 going with an Armie by order of the Emperour, in pursuit of the Fleete which Frier Garcia de Lo∣aysa Commander, had carried to the Ilands of the Malucos, and conceiuing hee could not ouer∣take them, he thought good to busie himselfe in something that might be profitable; and entred the yeare 29. discouering the Riuer of Plate, where he was almost three yeares; and being not [ 50] seconded, with relation of that which he had found, returned to Castile, hauing gone many leagues vp the Riuer, he found Plate or Siluer among the Indians of those Countries, for in the warres which these Indians had with those of the Kingdomes of Piru they tooke it, and from hence it is called the Riuer of Plate, for before it was called the Riuer of Solis. These Prouinces are ioyned with those of Brasil: by the line of the markes they haue no determined bounds, but by the Coast of the Sea that falleth to the North, and entrance of the Riuer of Plate, of the which the Countrie hath taken the name, and the mouth of this Riuer may stand sixteene hundred leagues from the Bay of Saint Lucar of Barrameda.

All these Prouinces are very plentifull of Wheate, Wine, and Sugar, and all other seedes and fruites of Castile doe grow well: they haue great Pastures for all sorts of Cattle, which haue [ 60] multiplied infinitely, especially the Horses, and though they haue beene many yeares without thinking there were any Mines of Gold, or of Siluer, they haue already found a showe of them, and of Copper, and Iron, and one of very perfect Amathists. All these Prouinces are of one Go∣uernment, with title Royall, subordained for nearenesse to the Vice-roy of Piru, with one Bi∣shopricke wherein are three Spanish Townes, and a great multitude of the Countrie men, of big

bodies, and well conditioned. And the Townes are; the Citie of our Lady of the Assumption, the first inhabiting,* 2.422 and the head of this Prouince, it stands in 25. degrees and a halfe of altitude: the Captaine Iohn of Salazar built it by order of the Gouernour Don Peter Mendoça. The territory thereof was first called Gurambare: it hath Brasil at the right hand two hundred and eightie leagues, and in this compasse it hath the Citie Royall at eightie leagues, which the Indians call Guayra. And on the side of Piru, which is East and West, it hath at foure hundred and eightie leagues, the Citie of la Plata, and at two hundred and eightie, the Citie of Sancta Cruz de la Si∣erra or of the Hill, which Nuflo of Chanes built. To the South side which is toward the Straight of Magelane, it hath very great and rich Countries, and this Citie stands three hundred leagues from the mouth of the Riuer of Plate, built neere to the Riuer Paraguaye, on the East side, [ 10] with foure hundred Spanish Housholds, and more then three thousand children of those that were borne to them in the Countrie (which they call Mestizos) in it are resident the Gouer∣nour,* 2.423 and Officers Royall, and the Cathedrall which is called the Bishopricke of the Plate, suffra∣gan to the Archbishoprick of the Kings, and in her iurisdiction more then 400000. Indians, which doe increase daily.

* 2.424Citie Royall was called by another name Ontiueros, built by Ruidias de Melgareio; it stands eightie leagues from the Assumption North-east, toward the Land of Brasil, neere to the Riuer Parana; it stands in a good soyle of Victuals, and Vines, and much good Copper, and great number of Indians, which also doe much increase. In this Riuer Parana, neere the Citie Royall,* 2.425 there is a great fall, that no man dare come neere it by Land within two hundred paces, for the great noyse, and mist of the water, and by the Riuer no Canoe, nor Boate dare [ 20] come neere by a league; for the furie of the water doth carry it to the fall, which is aboue two hundred fadomes off a steep Rock, and it is so narrow, and the water goeth so close, that it seemes ye may throw ouer it with a dart.

* 2.426 Buenos ayres is a Towne which in old time was disinhabited neere the place where now it is built againe, in the Prouince of the Morocotes, in the borders of the Riuer of Plate, in a plentifull soyle, where all things of Castile doe grow very well; the Gouernor Don Peter of Mendoça built it 1535. which caused all that which Gabote forsooke to be discouered. All this Countrie is com∣monly plaine: for except the Cordilleras or Rowes (which are on the Sea coast, and may be twen∣tie leagues toward Brasil, afterwards compassing all the Countrie toward the Riuer Maranyon) and [ 30] the Rowes of the Kingdomes of Piru, all is plaine, except some small hils.

There are knowne in the Coast of these Prouinces from the Land of Brasil, vnto the Riuer of Plate fiue or six reasonable Ports,* 2.427 the Port of Saint Vincent, in 33. degrees height, right against Buenabrigo, an Iland where the line of the repartition passeth; and six leagues to the South the Ri∣uer Vbay, and the Port, and the Iland de la Cananea in 35. degrees; and forward the Riuer de la Barca, before the Port of Babia or Riuer of Saint Francis, and the Iland of Sancta Catalina, by an∣other name the Port of Vera, or Port of the Duckes (de Peros) and the Port of Don Roderigo, twen∣tie leagues to the South from Sancta Catalina, an Iland 29. degrees and more to the South, fiue leagues▪ Close Hauen, and fifteene the b 2.428 Inhabited Riuer, and as much the Deepe-Bay from this, and the Riuer Tiraqueri, in 32. degrees and a halfe, before the Cape of Saint Marie, which is in 35. [ 40] degrees at the entrie of the Riuer of Plate.

This Riuer is called in the Indian language Paranaguazu, and commonly Parana, hath his en∣trie and mouth in the South Sea,* 2.429 from thirtie fiue vnto thirtie six degrees of altitude, between the Capes of Saint Marie, and Cape Blanke, which is from the one to the other about thirtie leagues of mouth, and from thence inward other tenne leagues in breadth, with many Ilands in the middest, and many very great maine Riuers, which enter into it by the East and West side, vnto the Port of the Kings, which is a great Lake called of the Xarayes, little lesse then three hundred leagues from the Riuer of Plate, where enter many Riuers that come from the skirts of the Andes and they may be of those Riuers that proceede in the Prouinces of the Charcas and Cuzco, which runne toward the North, whereby entreth another maine arme into the said Lake, which hath giuen occasion to thinke that this Riuer doth communicate with the Riuer of Saint Iohn of the [ 50] Amazones; others say that it commeth from the Lake of the Dorado, which is fifteene iournies from the Lake of the Xarayes, though there be opinions that there is no Darado.

* 2.430The Captaine Salazar gouerning in these Prouinces by the death of Don Peter Mendoça, in the yeare 1545. a Spaniard being in his bed and his wife by him on the out side, in the night there came a Tigre and gaue the man a blow that he killed him, and carried him away, and be∣tweene certaine Caues he did deuoure him: in the morning the Captaine Salazar went forth with fiftie Souldiours to seeke the Tigre, and going through a wood, hee went alone by a path, and as soone as hee discouered the Tigre, hee being flesh set vpon him, and at the time hee lifted vp the pawe for to strike him,* 2.431 the Captaine let flee the Shaft out of his Crosse∣bowe, and strooke him to the heart, and it fell downe dead: an exploit of great courage, [ 60] heede and dexteritie.

THe Prouinces and Countrie of Brasil in the Coast of the North Sea, and Terra firme, is called all that which falleth to the East from the line of the repartition,* 2.432 from twentie nine de∣grees of longitude from the Meridian of Toledo, vnto thirtie nine, which are two hundred leagues from East to West, and foure hundred and fiftie North and South, from two degrees of Southerne altitude, by the Cape de Humos or of Smoakes, vnto fiue and twenty, by the Iland of Buenabrigo or Good-harbour. And from the first inhabiting, vnto the last of Brasil,* 2.433 there are three hundred and fiftie leagues. Vincent Yanes Pinzon discouered first this Countrie by comman∣dement of the Kings Catholike, and presently after him Iames of Lepe, in the yeare 1500. and six moneths after Poraluarez Cabral, going with a Portugall armie to India, which to auoide [ 10] the Coast of Guinea did put so much to the Sea that he found this Countrie, and called it Sancta Cruz, because on that day he discouered it. All of it is very hot in Winter and Summer, and ve∣ry rainie, and compassed with Woods and Mists, vnhealthfull, and full of venemous Wormes, plentifull in Pastures for Cattle, and not for Wheate, nor Millet; there are in it great showes of Siluer and Gold, but as the Portugals, haue no stocke to make any profit of the Mines, they leaue them as they are.

The principall foode of this Countrie is the Cazabi which they make of the Yuca, and the greatest trafficke is Sugar, and Cotten Bumbast, and Brasil Wood, which was it that gaue it the name. There are in all the Prouince nine Gouernments, which are called Captainships, and [ 20] in them seuenteene Portugal Townes: in it may be about three and thirtie hundred housholds, and great multitude of warlike Indians, which haue not suffered the Portugals to build but on the Coast, in which are many Riuers, Landings, and many Ports, and very safe, where any Ships may come in, be they neuer so bigge.

The Colonie of the first Captainship, and the most auncient is Tamaraca,* 2.434 the second Pernam∣buco, fiue leagues from Tamaraca to the South, in eight degrees of altitude, and there is a house of the Fathers of the Companie of Iesus: the other is, that of all Saints, one hundred leagues from Pernambuco in thirteene degrees, and there the Gouernour, the Bishop, and the Auditour generall of all the Coasts are resident, and it hath a Colledge of the Company: the fourth Captain∣ship of the Ilands is thirtie leagues from the Bay of All Saints,* 2.435 in foureteen degrees & two third [ 30] parts, it hath a House of the Fathers of the Companie. In this Captainship is found a Tree where out they take a precious Balme.* 2.436 The Captainship of the Sure-hauen is thirtie leagues from the I∣lands in sixteene degrees and a halfe: it hath three Inhabitings, and a House of the Fathers of the Companie. The Captaineship of the Holy-Ghost fiftie leagues from Puerto seguro, in twentie degrees, where they gather much Brasil, and there is one house of the Company. The Captain∣ship of the Riuer of Genero is sixtie leagues from the Holy-Ghost, in twentie three degrees and one third part, with a house of the Fathers of the Company, and they cut in their iurisdiction much Brasil Wood; the Riuer is very faire, with fine and profitable borders. The last Captaineship is Saint Vincent, sixtie leagues from the Riuer of Genero, in foure and twentie degrees, it hath a for∣tresse in an Iland for a defence against the Indians and Pirates, and a house of the said Fathers, [ 40] which haue done great profit in the inhabiting of thi•• Countrie, and conuersion of the Indians, and their libertie. The Cattle that are in these Prouinces are many and great breeding of Swine, and Hens, they gather much Amber which the Sea casteth vp with stormes at the spring tides,* 2.437 and many persons haue inriched themselues with it. Then Summer is from September to Fe∣bruary, and the Winter from March vnto August; the dayes are almost as long as the nights, they increase and diminish onely an houre, in the winter the winde is alwaies at South and South-east, in Summer North-east and East North-east.

There are in this Coast eight or tenne Ports more principall then the rest,* 2.438 which are the Riuer of Saint Dominicke and de las Virtudes to the North-east of Pernambuco, and Tamaraca, which is an Iland, and as it is said, the first Plantation, and before the Cape of Saint Austine, which stands in nine degrees, the Riuer of Saint Francis in ten degrees and a halfe, which is great and [ 50] mightie: the Bay of All Saints three leagues broad, and thirteene into the Land vnto Saint Sa∣uiour, the Riuer and Port Trenado, where the Ships doe touch that goe this Voyage, and the Riuer of Canamum in thirteene degrees and a halfe, the Riuer of the Beastes or of Saint Austine is foureteen degrees and a halfe; and the Riuer of the Virgenes in sixteene. Portesecure in seuenteen degrees: the Riuer of P••rayua in twentie degrees, neere to Sancti spiritus: the Riuer of Ge∣nero neere to Saint Sebastian,* 2.439 and Cold Cape in three and twentie degrees beyond Saint Vincent.

INdies of the West,* 2.440 are all the Ilands and firme Land comprehended within the markes of the [ 60] Crowne of Castile and of Lyon, at the Occidentall end of the said bounds; whose line as is said passeth on the other side the world, through the Citie of Malaca from whence toward the East, and New Spaine, is a great Gulfe of infinite Ilands great and small, and many pieces of Coasts, and firme Land, which are diuided into the Ilands of the Spicerie, or of the Malucos, I∣lands Philipinas, the Coast of China, Ilands of the Lequios and Iapones, Coast of the new Guinea,

Ilands of Salomon, and of Ladrones or the Theeues: the temper of all these Ilands and Lands in ge∣nerall is moist, and temperately hot, plentifull of Victuals, and Beasts, with some Gold, but base, no Siluer, store of Wax, and the people of sundry colours, and the ordinary colour like Indians, and some white among them, and some cole-blacke.

The Ilands of the Spicerie (which properly are called so, because all the Pepper, Cloues, Sina∣mon, Ginger, Nutmegs, and Masticke that is spent in Europe, is brought from them) are ma∣ny, though the most famous of that Gulfe are fiue small Ilands vnder the Equinoctiall in one hundred nintie foure degrees from the Meridian of Toledo, included in the morgage which the Emperor Charles the fift made of them to the King of Portugall for three hundred and fiftie thou∣sand Duckets, which are Terrenate of eight or nine leagues compasse, with a Port called Talan∣game,* 2.441 and in it raigned Corala, which yeelded himselfe for subiect to the King of Castile, when [ 10] the Shippes that remained of Magelanes fleete found these Ilands. The Iland of Tidore stands one league from Terrenate to the South, it hath tenne leagues compasse. The Iland of Matil, or Mutier is of foure leagues compasse, and is vnder the Equinoctiall, and Maquin three leagues to the South, of seuen in compasse, and tenne leagues to the South. Batan or Baquian is twen∣tie leagues in compasse. In the Iland of Tidore raigned Almanzor, which also gaue himselfe for subiect of the King of Castile, the which, and Carala did write and Iohn Sebastian of the Cano, borne in the Village of Guitarca, in the Prouince of Guipuzcoa brought their Letters; the which departing from Tidore in the yeare 1522. touched in the Iland of Zamatia, and going vp to al∣most fortie two degrees toward the Antarticke Pole, he arriued at the Iland of Saint Iames of the Greene Cape or Cabo Verde, and from thence to Siuill with the Shippe called the Victorie, [ 20] hauing spent seuen moneths time little lesse in comming from the Iland of Tidore. Patian is the fift Iland like the other; Moores inhabited in it, and Gentiles also, which knew not the im∣mortalitie of the soule. And when the Shippe of the fleete of Fryer Garcia of Loaysa came, Ro∣iami raigned in Tidore of thirteene yeares of age, and againe acknowledged the King of Castile, and also the King of Gilolo called Sultan Abderta meniani, and confirmed it with an oath. Gilolo is an Iland vnder the line foure leagues distant from those rehearsed; it is of two hundred leagues compasse, without Spicerie: the Iland of Ambon in three degrees and a halfe to the South, from the Iland of Gilolo without Spicerie. The Ilands of Bandan are in foure degrees of Southerne al∣titude, where the Nutmegge is gathered, and Mace; and the Burro, which is to the West of Ambon, and Timor, another Iland to the South-west from Bandan, almost one hundred leagues, [ 30] without Spicery, but rich of Sandalo, Zeinda, fiftie leagues from Timor, to the North-west of forty leagues compasse, plentiful of Pepper, and the Iland of Celebes, which is very great, & Borney grea∣ter, neere the straight of Malaca, which is made in the firme Land; & Zamatia, which in old time they called Taprobana. There be other manie great Ilands, and small, which remaine to the South side, neere Iaua Maior & Minor, and to the North toward the coast of Chyna: the Portugals haue a fortresse in Terrenate, and other in the Citie of Malaca at the entrie of the Archipelagus.

The Ilands Philippinas are a Sea of thirtie or fortie great Ilands, besides many other small ones which are together in lesse then two hundred leagues in length North and South, and one hun∣dred in breadth betweene New Spaine, and the Gulfe of Bengala, and they are about seuenteene hundred leagues from the Port of the Natiuitie in New Spaine, from six to fifteene or sixteene [ 40] degrees of Septentrional altitude, of a reasonable temperature, and plentifull of victuals, specially of Rice, and some base Gold in some places, and in some Ilands are Cinamon trees, and long Pepper.* 2.442 The Countriemen are of a good shape, and in some Ilands they are blacke, and those which liue in the center of the Countrie are whiter then those that liue in the Sea coasts. There are good Ports, and Timber for Shipping, the names of the principallest Ilands are Mindano, which is the greatest, and most Southward, of a hundred leagues in length, and three hundred in compasse, a rough Countrie, but plentifull of Millet, Waxe, Rice, Ginger, and some Cinamon, and Mines of Gold, with good Hauens, and Rodes: the Iland of Good-tokens, and Saint Iohn leaning to Mindanao, on the East side, of twenty leagues in length North and South; Behol, ten leagues more to Mindanao on the North side, nineteene leagues in length. [ 50]

The Iland of Buglas or of Negros, by reason of those that are in it, is in the middest of that Sea to the West, of fortie leagues in length North and South, and foureteen in breadth, and in her coast are some Pearles: the Iland of Zubu in the middest of all, of thirtie leagues in length North and South, and in it a Spanish Towne, called the Village of Iesus, on the East side, with one good Hauen, besides other that are in the Iland, the Captaine Ferdinando Magellanes discouered this I∣land, in the yeare 1520. the King yeelded then himselfe for subiect to the Crowne of Castile, and before he discouered the Ilands, which he called de las Velas Latinas, because they sailed in their Shippes with sayles of Mats made of Palme tree leaues after the Latine fashion;* 2.443 and from Zubu Magellanes went with the King, to warre against the King of Màtan, in a little Iland close [ 60] to that of Zubu on the South side, where being too valiant and confident he was slaine; and the Spaniards following their Voyage in demand of the Ilands of the Spicerie, they discouered Que∣pindo, Pul••an, and Burney, which is a great, rich, and plentifull Iland of Rice, Sugar, Goates, Swine, Cammels: it wa••••s Wheate, Asses, and Sheepe; it hath Ginger, Camphire, Mirabolans,

and other Drugges. Aluaro of Saauedra discouered also the Phillippines, and tooke possession of them in the yeare 1527. for the Crowne of Castile,* 2.444 which by order of the Marquesse of the Val∣ley went from the Port of Ciuitlaneio in New Spaine, in demand of the Ilands of the Spicerie, and particularly he was in Mindanao: and this digression hath not bin out of purpose.

Returning to the order of the Phillippines, there followeth the aboue said Abuyo, or Babay thirtie leagues in length North and South, and tenne in breadth, in which are good Mines, and Pearles, in her coast: Tandayala most famous of all, which for being first discouered, is called Phillipine, of which all take the name, in memory of the inuincible King Don Philip the second, the Pru∣dent. It hath fortie leagues on the North side, and of the East North North-east, and South South-west, and twelue leagues in breadth where most, with good Hauens and Roades: Masbat a [ 10] meane Iland to the West of Tandaya, of seuenteene leagues in length, and fifteene in breadth, with one Hauen: Mindoro of fiue and twentie leagues in length North and South, and halfe in breadth; there is Pepper in it, and Mines of Gold: the Iland of Luzan, called the New Castile, as great or greater then Mindanao, the most Septentrionall of the Phillipines, in the which is built Manila,* 2.445 a Citie of Spaniards, with title of Famous, where the Gouernour, Officers of the goods, and cheft Royall, and the Cathedrall are resident; it is a plentifull soyle of Victuals, with many Mines of Gold: the Hauen of this Citie is bad, and for all that there is great trafficke with the Chynas, which bring Porcelane Vessell, Tinsels, coloured silkes, and other Merchandize: Luçon hath in length two hundred leagues, and it is very narrow.

In all these Ilands are many Mahometanes, wither they came by the East India, and could ea∣sily [ 20] plant their falshood amongst those blinde Gentiles. Captaine Magellanes as aboue said disco∣uered these Ilands, the yeare 1520. going with an Armie of the Crowne of Castile, in search of the Ilands of the Malucoes, and tooke possession of them, and afterward Michael Lopez of Le∣gazpi made an end of discouering them,* 2.446 the yeare 1564. with an Armie which hee tooke from New Spaine, by order of the Vice-roy, Don Lewis of Velasco: it is iudged that those Ilands doe amount to eleauen thousand great and small. There are pacified about fortie of them, and conuerted more then a Million of men vnto the Catholike Faith, with so many expen∣ces of the Crowne Royall, not hauing had vntill now any profit from those Countries; for euery Religious man of those that are sent thither, doth cost to set there one thousand Duckets. Those which hitherto haue laboured in that Vineyard, with most great fruite of the soules, are [ 30] the Religious Dominicans, Franciscans, Barefooted, and Austine Fryers, and the Company of Iesus; and from these Ilands hath beene begun to bridle the Mahometans, which from the Coast of Asia went by little and little extending through these, and other Ilands,* 2.447 and also to the Chi∣nas and Iapones, and the Portugals had already lost the Ilands of the Malucos, if the Spaniards of the Prouinces of the Phillippines had not holpen and succoured them diuers times and ma∣ny wayes.

There is already a plainer notice had of the Chynas, by the commerce of the Phillippines,* 2.448 and their riches and plenty is knowne: it is of the richest and mightiest Kingdomes of the World, and from Manila may be to the coast of China three hundred leagues, of eight dayes sayling, and the coast of that Countrie goeth running as to the North-east, more then seuen hundred leagues, [ 40] from twentie one to twenty two degrees of Septentrional latitude, and vpward, and it is known that crosse ouer the Countrie inward is a Voyage of fiue or sixe moneths, to the confines of Tar∣taria; being a Countrie of great Cities, with many Townes, and the people politicke, and prepared for their defence, but not warlike, and the Coast much inhabited with maine Ri∣uers, and good Hauens: it extends from seuenteene vnto fiftie degrees North and South, and East and West it occupieth two and twentie: the Citie of Paquin, where the King hath his Court, stands in fortie eight degrees of our Pole, it is diuided in fifteene Prouinces, sixe Maritime, and nine Mediterrane, and the one are deuided from the other with certaine Moun∣taines like the Pirineis, and there are but two passages whereby they doe communicate.

Thomas Perez Ambassadour of the King of Portugall, was from Cantan to Nanqui foure [ 50] Moneths, trauelling alwayes to the North:* 2.449 and to the largenesse of this Kingdome is ioyned the plentie of the Countrie, which is great, for the which the multitude of the nauigable Riuers that do water it, are a help, wherewith it seemes a pleasant Forrest or Garden, and the abundance is doubled by many wayes, for the Kings spare no cost to make the Countrie watered in euery place, c••tting great hils, and making great Valleys plaine; and the heate not wanting in any place, for all the Countrie almost is contained in the bounds of the temperate Zone, nor the moi∣sture by the clemencie of nature, and by the industrie of men it is incredibly all multiplied, and all being compelled to busie themselues in something, there is not one foote of ground left vn∣profitable. In Canton among other notable things they say there are a great number of blinde [ 60] men that doe labour in something, euery one as he is able, and being forbidden the going out of the Kingdome without licence, the which is neuer granted, but for a limited time it is necessary that the propagation increasing continually, the number of the people be without end, especi∣ally that they hold for a certaine, that for fiue persons that doe dye, there are seuen borne, and the purenesse of the ayre is so much, that they doe not remember, there hath beene any vni∣uersall

plague, and with all these good things they haue their troubles also, for there are earth∣quakes that destroy whole Cities, disinhabit the Countrie, and suppresse the auncient Riuers, and raise others, and doe make great Mountaines plaine, with a miserable misfortune of that people.

The yeare 1555. there burst out of the intrailes of the earth such abundance of water, that it ouer-flowed the space of sixtie leagues, and destroyed seuen Cities with their iurisdictions. And this as touching the continent of China. There is through all the Coast a multitude of Ilands, the greater part are vnto vs vnknowne. Not farre from Nanqui, is the Cape of Lampo, the Iland of Aueniga, Abarda, Sumbar, Lanqui, and the Iland of Horses, of the which no particular no∣tice is had. Passing the Citie of Chincheo, stands Lamao, and a great number of Ilands are seene [ 10] about Cantan, and these are the most celebrated, Lantao, Macao, Veniaga, where is the Port of Tamo, Lampacao, Sancoan, in all the which the King of China hath Garrisons on Sea and Land, except in Lampacao which is not inhabited.

In Macao, by another name Macan, the Portugals haue a Towne, and the Chinas knowing the valour of the Portugals,* 2.450 and the fauour they haue of the Castillans of the Phillipines, suffer it with an euill will, but the Portugals seeke to preserue themselues, for their profitable com∣merce in China. Sancon is thirtie leagues from Cantan, where sometimes the Portugals haue touched, and no Iland of China is of greater importance then Anian in the mouth of the Gulfe of Cauchinchina, fiue leagues from the * 2.451 Firme Land, and one hundred and eightie from the Philli∣pines,* 2.452 and it is so bigge, that they affirme it to haue thirtie Fortresses; in it is a fishing [ 20] for small Pearles. It is aboundant of Victuals, and of many Fruits: vnder the Gouern∣ment of Cantan, the principall Port of China, and the Countrie men are grosse and rude people.

* 2.453Iapan is many Ilands diuided with small armes of the Sea, in three and thirtie Kingdomes, whose head is the Citie of Meaco, distant variable from China, and they count from the Iland of Goto in Iapon to Liampo in China sixtie leagues, which is the neerest. The Iapones doe greatly mo∣lest the Chinas, more with piracies, and thefts, then with iust war, because Iapan being diuided in sundry Ilands, and diuers Princes, they can make no warre against the Chinas, but with weake forces. They are more warlike and valiant then the Chinas: it is a temperate Countrie, plenti∣full of Seedes, Cattle and Fowle of Europe, it hath Mines of Iron and Steele: the Countrie men [ 30] are strong, valiant, and for much labour: those Ilands stand in thirtie fiue degrees of the Pole, lit∣tle more or lesse, according to the distance of euery Iland. The Iapones doe not vnderstand the Chi∣nas but by writing, because of the Characters, or Letters being one for them all, and though they signifie the same, they haue not the same name, for they are to declare things, and not words, a•• the figures of Arithmeticke,* 2.454 that if a 9. be set, the French, the Castillan, and the English man doe vnderstand it, that it signifieth 9. but euery one doe name it after their owne fashion.

By another side the Iapones doe confine with the Phillipines, from whence there is commerce with them, and a great incouragement is giuen to the Fathers of the Company, for to labour in the conuersion of the people of those Kingdomes, where notable fruite hath beene gotten, for the which these Ilands are much celebrated in the world, and by the comming of the Ambassa∣dours [ 40] of the new Christendome to the Pope, and to the King Phillip the second, the Prudent: and so as nature placed them in a scituation separated from the rest of the Land, the men of that Region are differing in customes from other people. In the yeare 1592. Nobunanga which cau∣sed himselfe to be called Emperour of Iapan, interprised with eightie Vessels, and 20000. men, cer∣taine Prouinces tributarie vnto China, and wan it.

From the Iland of Simo, which is among them of Iapan the greatest, is extended a row of small Ilands, called the Lequios, and doe prolong themselues toward the Coast of China; the two grea∣ter,* 2.455 which is euery one of fifteene or twentie leagues, neere the Coast of Iapan, are called the grea∣ter Lequio, and other two also great, though not so much, which are at the end of the Rowe, they call Lequio the lesser: some are inhabited of well shapen people, white, politicke, well apparel∣led, [ 50] warlike, and of good reason, they abound in Gold more then others of that Sea, and not lesse in Victuals, Fruits, and good Waters. Neere vnto the lesser Lequio stands Hermosa, or the beautifull Iland, which hath the same qualitie, and say it is as big as Sicilie.

* 2.456THe Coast of new Guiena beginneth one hundred leagues to the East of the Iland of Gilolo, in little more then one degree altitude, on the other side of the Equinoctiall, from whence it is prolonged toward the East three hundred leagues, till it come to fiue or six degrees. It hath beene doubted vntill now, whether it be an Iland or firme Land, because it doth enlarge it selfe in so great a Voyage from being able to ioyne with the Countries of the Ilands of Salomon, or Prouin∣ces of the Straight of M••gellanes by the South side; but this doubt is resolued with that which [ 60] those do affirme that sailed on the South side of the Straight of Magelanes, that that is not a con∣tinent, but Ilands, and that presently followeth a spacious Sea, and among those that doe affirme i•• is Sir Richard Hawkins, an English Knight, which was fiue and fortie dayes among the same Ilands.

From the Sea the Land of this coast of Guinea seemeth good, and the men that haue been seene are cole black, and in the coast are many Ilands with good roads,* 2.457 and ports whereof is no particu∣lar notice; for hauing sailed it few times, those which are found in some cards are Aguada or the watering to the East thirty fiue leagues from the first Land, is in one degree of Southern altitude; and eighteene forward the port of Saint Iames, and the Iland of the Crespos of sixteene leagues long neere the coast, right against the Port of Saint Andrew, and neere to it the Riuer of Saint Peter, and Saint Paul, before the Port of Saint Ierom, and a small Iland neere the a 2.458 thrust out Point, 40. leagues from S. Austin, which they call of Good-pence, and more forward from it, the b 2.459 Shelter, and Euill people, two little Ilands, and the Bay of Saint Nicholas, fiftie leagues from Puntasalida, and among other Ilands one of white men, and the Mother of God before Good Baye, and of the [ 10] Natiuitie of our Lady, the last of that which is discouered,c 2.460 and as to the North from it the Cay∣mana, an Iland without in the Sea among others which haue no name.

The Meridionall coast is not yet known, the first that discouered the new Guine was Aluaro of Saauedra, being lost with many stormes from his course, returning to new Spain, when in the year 1527. the Marques of the Valley sent him that on that side he should seek the Ilands of the Spicerie.

The Ilands of Salomon are eight hundred leagues from Piru,* 2.461 & the opinion that is held of their riches, gaue them this name, the which properly are called of the West, because they fal to the West from the Prouinces of Piru, from the place that Aluaro of Mendoça made discouery of them by or∣der of the Licentiate Lope Garcia de Castro his Vnckle, Gouernor of the Kingdomes of Piru, in the yeare 1567. the first that saw the Land of these Ilands was a yong man, called Treio, in the top of [ 20] a Ship: they are from seuen degrees of altitude on the other side of the Equinoctiall about 1500. leagues from the Citie of the Kings, they are many in quantity & greatnes, and eighteen the most famous, some of 300. leagues in compasse, and two of 200. and of 100. and of 50. and thence down∣ward, besides many which are not yet made an end of coasting, and they say that they might bea-continent with the coast of the new Guiney, and the Countries to be discouered toward the West of the straight: the Countrie of these Ilands seemeth of a good temper, and habitable, plentifull of victuals, and Cattell: there were found in them some fruits like those of Castile, Swine & Hens in great number: the Countrie men some of a brown colour like Indians, others white & ruddie, and some cole blacke, which is an argument of continuance with the Countries of the new-Guinie, whereby there may so many differences of people be mingled of those which resort to the Ilands [ 30] of the Spicery.

The greatest and most renowned are Sancta Ysabel, from eight to nine degrees of altitude, of more then 150. leagues in length, and eighteene in breadth▪ and one good port called of the Star: Saint George or Borbi to the South of S. Isabel one league and a halfe, of thirty leagues compasse▪ Saint Marcos, or Saint Nicholas of one hundred leagues compasse to the South-east of Saint Isabel; the Iland of the * 2.462 Shelues as great as the former to the South of Saint Isabel, and Saint Ierome to the West of 100. leagues compasse; and Guadalcauall to the South-west greater then all: and to the East of Saint Isabel, the Iland of d 2.463 Buenauista, and Saint Dimas, and the Iland of Florida of twenty leagues circuit euery one; and to the East of it, the Iland of e 2.464 Ramos of 200. leagues compasse, and neere to it Malayta, and f 2.465 Atreguada of thirty, and the three Maries, certaine little Ilands, & the [ 40] Iland of Saint Iohn of twelue leagues compasse betweene the Atreguada and the Iland of S. Iames to the South. Malata of 100. leagues circuit, and to the South-east of it, the Iland of Saint Christo∣pher as bigge as it: and Saint Anne, and Saint Catherine, two small Ilands fast by it: the Name of God, a small Iland distant from the other fiftie leagues, in seuen degrees of altitude,* 2.466 and in the same Rumbe to the North of Saint Isabel, the Shelues, which they call of g 2.467 Candelaria.

There is in the voiage that is made from Piru to the Ilands of Salomon, an Iland called of S. Paul, in fifteen degrees of altitude, 700. leagues from Piru, nineteen degrees, 300. leagues of Land, others which may be those that they called of Salomon, and they say also that they might be others which this little while haue beene discouered in the same Rombe of Chile.

[ 50] The Ilands of the Theeues are a row of 16. smal Ilands together which runne North and South, with the middest of the coast of Guiney, from twelue degrees of altitude vnto seuenteene Septen∣trionall or more, not farre from the Phillippinas to the East. They are all barren ground, and mi∣serable, without Cattle, or Mettals, scarce of Victuals, inhabited with poore people, well sha∣pen, naked, and much inclined to steale, euen to the nayles of the Shippes that came there, whereby Magelane named them of the The••ues,* 2.468 in the yeare 1520. when he came to them go∣ing in demand of the Spicerie. Their names are, the English, the most North, and after it Ota Mao, Chemechoa Gregua, Agan, or Pagan, Oramagan, Gugn••••, Chareguan, Natan, Saepan, Bo∣ta, Volia. There are among these Ilands Phillipines, other eighteene or twenty, called of the Kings, Archipelagus, or Ilands of the Corrall, and the Gardens, another quantity of little Ilands, [ 60] and Pialogo, Saint Vilan, another little Iland, the Gardens, and the Iland of the Matalores, and that of the Shelues, and of Saint Iohn, or of Palmes, neere the Malucos,g 2.469 and on the North side of the Theeues, fiue or six little Ilands together, called the h 2.470 Volcanes, where is store of Cochinilla; and ⁱ Malpelo another small Iland, where are * 2.471 Ci••aloes very fine, and on the East side of the Theeues, the two Sisters, two little Ilands in ten degrees, and Saint Bartholomew in foureteene and more

toward new Spaine, the Shelues, Look how thou goest, Take away sleep, or See thou sleep not; & neere to them the Iland of Martine,* 2.472 and Saint Paul, another small Iland with shelues, and the inhabited the most Eastward toward new Spaine, Aluaro of Saauedra was also in the Iland of the Theeues, in the yeare 1527. returning from the Iland of Spicerie to new Spaine.

THe Catholike King of Castile, and of Lyon continuing in their auncient, and Christian pietie, presently after these new Countries were discouered,* 2.473 and ioyned with this faire Monarchie, procured to plant, and settle the Catholike Religion in them, and temporall pollicie, with so much care and aduice of the wisest men of these Kingdomes. For as the discoueries did increase the businesses, they formed a particular Counsell with President and Councellours, that busying [ 10] themselues in no other thing, with more diligence they might resort to that which so much per∣tained to the seruice of our Lord God, and gouernment of that Orbe. And because hereafter mention shall be made of the persons which from the beginning haue laboured, and serued in the supreame Counsel of the Indies, which hath carried so great a waight vnto this present houre, first shall be spoken of the spirituall and temporall gouernment, and the rest worth the knowing, that the order of that Monarchie may be understood, with all breuitie.

The first thing that these godly Kings did charge and command the first Discouerer, and from man to man commanded the other Discouerers and Gouernours of that new World with very straight orders, was, that they should procure that the people which they carried, with the Chri∣stian life, and with their good customes, should giue such example to the Indians, that they might [ 20] be glad to imitate them, and should binde them vnto it▪ entring first according to the Euangeli∣call Law, the religious men preaching it, that so rather with the sweetnesse of it, then with the force and noyse of Armes it should be admitted, and that iustice should be administred with such equalitie to all men, that it might be much respected & esteemed. All went forward, the townes went augmenting in such manner, that with the zeale of the seruice of God, and good of the men it hath come to such a point, that at this day there are found built and established in all that Orbe of this Crowne possessed, as before hath beene seene, fiue Archbishopricks, twentie seuen Bishopricks, two famous Vniuersities,* 2.474 where with great learning and doctrine al the Sciences are read, more then foure hundred Monasteries of religious Dominicks, Franciscani, Augustines, Mercenaries, and the Companie of Iesus, with some Monasteries of Nunnes, and Colledges, infinite Hospitals, and Frater∣nities, [ 30] innumerable store of beneficed Cures, which are called Doctrines, for to teach those new Conuerts, and Heremites, and Chappels in the high-way erected on pillars, hauing Crucifixes in them, without number. All the which was begun at the charge of the Crowne, and at this day it go∣eth forward where there is no maintenance for it. In effect, this Catholike pietie by the clemen∣cy of God goeth from good to better, augmenting with so much reuerence and honour of God, that in no place of Christendome it is done with more order or care, by the care of the supreme Councell of the Indies. Of the which is inferred, that the Concession of the Apostolike Roman Sea made to the Crowne of Castile, and of Lion, of the Patronage Ecclesiasticall of that new World was a very great remedie, in the which our Lord God (as Hee which onely is Hee that seeth, and preuenteth all things to come) did a thing worthy of His greatnesse, seeing Hee hath shewed the [ 40] experience that if this had beene gouerned otherwise, it had beene impossible to haue proceeded with the harmonie, and euen concent as it hath, of Religion, Iustice, and Gouernment, with so much obedience and quietnesse.

The Ecclesiasticall Patronage is gouerned in the same manner that in the Kingdome of Grana∣da,* 2.475 the Kings Catholike presenting to the chiefe Bishop onely the Archbishops, and Bishops, that from his holy hand they may receiue these Prelacies, and may dispatch their Bulls, procuring alway that they be persons of a religious life, and great learning. All the other Dignities and Be∣nefices are prouided by the King, and consultation of the supreme Councell of the Indies, and they go not to Rome for Buls: and their rents consist in tithes and first fruits which arise of the Spanish inhabiters. For in the most places of these Indies the Countrie men paie not, and where the tithes [ 50] are wanting, it is supplied out of the goods royall: and touching the tithes and first fruits that are to be paied, many ordinances and rates are made according to the stile of these Kingdomes, that the men of each Colony, it is iust it should follow her customes. And though the Kings of Castile, and of Lyon, are Lords of the tithes by Apostolike concession, & might take them to himselfe, sup∣plying where it wanteth with that which in other places doth exceede, he leaueth them to the Prelates & Churches, prouiding of his own goods Royall with the liberality of so Catholik Pri••∣ces, to all the necessities of the poore Churches, giuing to euery one that is built anew the greatest part of that which is spent in the building, with a Chaliz, a Bell, and a painted * 2.476 Table.

That the distribution of that which proceedeth of the tithes, and of that which is bestowed out of the goods Royall in maintenance of the Prelates, Dignities, and Canons of the Cathedrall [ 60] Churches, and Benefices, Cures, and persons that are occupied in the diuine Seruice, and instruct∣ing of the Indians, may be fruitfully imploied according to the holy intention of the Kings; the sup∣reme Counsell hath made good ordinances. First, that all the said persons be of an approued life and customes,* 2.477 & especially those that doe meddle in the Doctrines, being first examined touching

learning, and after in the language of the Indians; for it would little auaile, that the Disciples should not vnderstand the Maister: and that these do continually reside: and that no Curate, or Teacher may haue two Benefices; and that those which shall from these parts passe to the Indies be more approued, it is commanded that no Priest doe passe without licence of his Prelate and of the King, and that if any be there found without it, presently they should send him to Spaine.

And that the manner how the Royall Patronage is gouerned may better be vnderstood,* 2.478 seeing it appertaineth to this Crowne, because that it hath discouered and acquired that New World; and hath also built and endowed, out of the goods Royall, so many Churches, & Monasteries, as by the Apostolike concession, that for no cause the said patronage, nor any part of it, either by custome, or [ 10] prescription, or other title may be separated from it: it is ordained what care the Vice-roies, Coun∣sels, Gouernors, & Rulers, are to haue in it, and what penalties the transgressors should incur. First, that no Cathedrall or Parish Church, Monasterie, Hospitall, nor votiue Church, should be founded without consent of the King. That when in the Cathedrall Churches there are not foure * 2.479Bene∣ficed men resident, prouided by royall presentation, & canonicall prouision of the Prelate, because the other Prebends be voide, or absent for more then eight moneths (though for a lawfull cause.) The said Prelate, till such time as the King doth present, may chuse to the accomplishing of the foure Clarks (besides those that are prouided and resident) of the most sufficient of those that shall offer themselues, without that the said prouision be in Titulo (to be remoueable at pleasure) & that they haue no seate in the Q••ire, nor voice in Counsell. That no Prelate may make canonicall in∣stitution, nor giue possession of any Prebend, or Benefice, without presentation Royall, & in such a [ 20] case that without delay they make the prouision, and command to resort with the fruits. That in all the dignities, & Prebends, the learned be preferred before the vnlearned, and those which haue serued in the Cathedral Churches of Castile, and haue more exercise of the seruice of the Quire, be∣fore them that haue not serued in them. That at the least there be presented for euery Cathedrall Church a graduate Lawyer, & a Diuine for the Pulpet, with the obligation that in these Kingdoms the doctoral Canons, & Magistrates haue; & another learned Diuine to read the sacred Scripture: and another Lawyer or Diuine for the Cannonship of Pennance, according to the sacred Counsell of Trent. That all the other Benefices, Cures, and simples, secular, and regulars, and the Ecclesiasti∣call Offices that shall be voide, or prouided anew. That they may be made with lesse delay, and the [ 30] Royall patronage may be preserued, it is commanded that they be made in the forme following. That any of the abouesaid Benefices, or Offices being voide, the Prelate shall command to make edicts with a competent tearme, and of those that shall offer themselues hauing examined them, and being informed of their behauior, shall name of the best; and the Vice-roy or Gouernor of the Prouince, shal chuse one and remit the election to the Prelate, that he make the prouision, Collati∣on, and Cannonicall institution by way of recommendation, and not in a perpetuall title, so that when the King doth make the presentation, and in it shal be expressed that the collation be made in a perpetuall title, the Canonicall institution shall be in title, and not in recommendation: and the presented by the King be alwayes preferred before the presented by his Ministers.

That in the repartitions, and Towns of the Indians,* 2.480 and other places where they haue no bene∣fice [ 40] to elect, or means to place one to administer the Sacraments, the Prelates shall procure there be one to teach the Doctrine, making an edict, and hauing informed himselfe of his sufficiency and goodnes, he shall send the nomination to the Ministers Royal, that they do present him one of the two nominated, and if there be but one, that, and in the vertue of such a presentation the Prelate shall make the prouision, giuing him the instruction how he is to teach, and commanding him to giue notice of the fruits. That in the presentations of all the dignities, offices, and benefices, the best deseruing, and that most exercised in the conuersion of the Indians, and the administration of the Sacraments shall be prouided; which, & those that best speak the language of the Indians, shall be preferred before the other. That he which shall come or send to request his Maiestie to present him to some dignitie, office, or benefice, shall appeare before the Ministers of the Prouince, and de∣claring [ 50] his petition, he shall giue information of his kindred, learning, customes & sufficiency, and the Minister shall make another of his office, and with his opinion to send it, and that the preten∣dant do bring also an approbation from his Prelate; for without these diligences those that come shall not be admitted. That none may obtaine two Benefices, or dignities in one, or in sundry Churches.* 2.481 That the presented not appearing before the time contained in the presentation before the Prelate, it shall be voide, and they may not make him a Cannonicall institution.

BEsides that which is rehearsed, it is prouided that they doe not permit any Prebendary in the Cathedrall Churches, to enioy the rents of it, except it be seruing & being resident; and that the Benefices of the Indians be Cures, and not simples▪ and that in the new discoueries, and plan∣tations [ 60] that shall be made, there be presently an Hospitall built for the poore, and sicke persons, of sicknesses that are not contagious, which shall be placed neere the Temple, and for a Cloyster of the same; that for the sicke of contagious diseases, the Hospitall shall be set that no hurt∣full winde passing by it doe strike in the other inhabiting, and if it be built on a high place it will be better. And because the King being informed that goods of the deceassed in those parts do not

come so wholly as they might, nor so soone to the hands of the heyres, by will of the said decea∣sed, for many causes, whereby the heires receiued great damage, and the testaments were not per∣formed:* 2.482 for a remedy, it was prouided, that whatsoeuer Spaniard shall come to any Village, or Towne of those parts, he shall present himselfe before the Clarke of the Counsell, where he shall Register the name, and surname of such a one, with the place of his aboad or birth, that his death happening, it may be knowne where those that are to be his heires may be found. That the ordi∣nary Iustice, with the most auncient Ruler, and the Clark of the Counsell shall take charge of the goods of the persons that shall dye, and shal set them in an Inuentorie, before a Scriuener and Wit∣nesses: and the debts that he did owe, and were owing him, and that which is in Gold & Siluer, small Pearle, and other things shall be sold, and put in a Chest of three Locks, whose Keyes the three persons abouesaid shall keepe. That the goods be sold in a publike out-cry, with the Testi∣mony [ 10] of a Scriuener: that if neede be▪ an Atturney shall be constituted. That the said Iustices doe take occompt of all those that haue charge of dead mens goods, and recouer all that they are be∣hinde hand without any appeale, and doe put it in the Chest of the three Keyes. That hauing any Will of the deceased where he dyeth, and the Heires or Executors, the Iustice shall not meddle in any thing, neither take the goods, taking only notice who be the Heires of the said deceased. That the said Iustices, Rulers, and Scriueners doe send also to the Contrataction-house of Seuill, all that which they shall recouer of the goods of the deceased, declaring the name, surname, and aboad of of euery one deceased, with the Copy of the Inuentory of his goods, that they may be giuen to his Heires, by the order that touching the same is giuen. That when they take accompt of those that haue had goods of men deceased, it shall be sent to the supreme Counsell of the Indies, with a very [ 20] particular relation, and reason of all. That the Iustices doe with care enforme themselues carefully of those which haue in possession the goods of men deceased, whether they haue done any fraude, and preiudice to the goods they haue had in possession, & send to the Counsel notice thereof, that they may giue accompt with paiment to the Iustices aboue said▪ That accompt be giuen euery yeere, and the memoriall of the dead that haue beene that yeere shall be shewed to the Gouernor of the Country, & of the goods they had, that they may be sent to Seuill, & be giuen to his heires, and the Testaments be fulfilled, with good accompt and reason that is behoouefull. For in euery Counsell, one of the Iustices is Iudge of the goods of the deceased, the one succeeding another, from the yongest to the eldest, by their turne, which doth send his Commissaries through the bounds to take accompt of the houlders, and there be any carelessenesse, the Iustices are charged therewith in [ 30] the visitations which are made of them, and before when there are any Plaintifes.

Those Catholike Kings being informed that in the Indies were many married Spaniards, which liued separated from their wiues,* 2.483 of the which, besides the offence that was done to our Lord God, there followed a great inconuenience to the Plantation of those Countries, for that such not li∣uing seated in them, were not continued, neither did they attend to build, plant, breed, nor sowing, nor doing other things, which the good inhabiters are wont to doe, whereby the Townes doe not increase, as is behoofefull, and as they would do if there came inhabitors with their wiues & chil∣dren, as true Townsmen; being willing to remedy the abouesaid, commanded that all and euery person or persons that should be found to be married, or betrothed in these Kingdomes, should come vnto them for their wiues, and not returne to the Indies without them, or with sufficient [ 40] proof that they are dead. And the same order was giuen for all the Kingdomes, of that new world, and sundry times hath beene reiterated, and commanded to be executed vpon grieuous penalties.

Proceeding from the yeare 1492. when the discouery of this Orbe was begun, in directing and setling the spirituall gouernment,* 2.484 as hath beene seene, for greater perfection, and enduring of it: The Catholike King Don Phillip the second, called the Prudent, considering that among the great benefits that the Indians haue receiued, their illumination to receiue the Euangelicall Doctrin was the greatest, which hath ex••ended itselfe, and considering also the singular grace which God for his mercy hath vsed with them, in giuing them knowledge of our holy Catholike Faith; that it was necessary to haue a speciall vigilancy in the conseruing of the deuotion, and reputation of the [ 50] inhabitors, and Castillane pacifiers, which with so many labours procured the augmenting of the Religion, and exalting of the Catholike Faith (as in those parts like faithful & Catholik Christians, and good naturall and true Castillans they haue done) & seeing that those which are out of the ho∣ly Catholike & Apostolike Roman Church, obstinate, and stubborne in their errors, and heresies, do alwayes procure to peruert the faithful Christians▪ labouring to draw them to their false opinions, scattering certain damned Books, wherof hath followed great hurt to our sacred Religion; and ha∣uing so certain experience that the best meanes to preuent these euils, consisteth in the separating the communication of heretical persons, punishing their errors, according to the disposition of the sacred Canons & laws of these Kingdoms (which by this holy means, by the diuine clemency haue beene preserued from this wicked contagion, and is hoped they will be preserued hereafter) to the [ 60] end that the Orbe doe not receiue so much hurt, where the inhabiters of these Kingdomes haue giuen so good example of Christianity, & the Country-born haue not peruerted themselues with erronious doctrines of the hereticks: It seemed good to his Maiestie, with the aduice of the Cardi∣nal D. Iames of Espinosa, Bishop of Siguença, Inquisitor generall in these Kingdoms, a man of great

prudence, and of many rare parts and vertues, for the which he made election of his person, to help him to beare the burden of so many Kingdomes, and Lordships, and of the Counsels of the holy, and generall Inquisition, and of the supreame Counsell of the Indies (for it behoued to place one Counsell of the holy Office in Mexico; for the Kingdomes of New Spaine, and the rest of the In∣dies of the North, and another in the Citie of the Kings, for the Kingdomes of Piru, and the adhe∣rents, which are called the Indies of the South) which the authority that the Councels of these Kingdomes haue, so that as yet they should not meddle with the cases of the Indians, but onely of the Castillanes, & other Nations that should be found in the Indies, and so that the appeals should come to the supreame Counsell that is resident in this Court, as it is done in Spaine, and in the ac∣complishing thereof, in the yeare 1570. the King Don Phillip the second, called the Prudent, gaue a [ 10] generall power to the Towne of Madrid, the 16. of August, that the Apostolike Inquisitours that should be named for the present, and for hereafter against the hereticall peruersnesse, & Apostacie; and the Officers and Ministers necessary for this holy Office, which was commanded to be seated in the Cities of Mexico, and of the Kings, should exercise & vse their Offices, and royall warrants, that Don Martin Euriques, and Don Franciscus of Toledo, Viceroyes, and Captains generall in the Kingdomes of New Spaine, and Piru, and the Counsels, and Iustices, Gouernours, and other persons should giue all aide, and fauour to the holy Officio, and the Inquisitors, and Officers were nomina∣ted, as in their owne place shall be spoken more at large.

[ 20] THese Catholike Kings, most wisely constituted the Supreme Counsell of the Indies, that they might helpe them to beare so great a burden, as is already the gouernment of that Orbe,* 2.485 and the Counsell consisteth in one President, and eight or more Counsellors, as necessitie requireth, with one Atturney, Secretaries, Clerkes of the Chamber, Relators, and other Officers, and an Office of Ac∣compts, where a notice is had of all the goods Royall of those parts. And that proceeding might be according to rule and order, they declared first that the Counsell should meet three houres eue∣ry day in the morning, and two in the afternoone, three dayes in the weeke that bee no holy dayes, and that they should firme the Warrants that should be deliuered for these Kingdoms; but that those that were for the Indies, should haue the seale Royall: and that in those parts it should haue supreme iurisdiction, and might make Lawes, and Decrees, to see and examine whatsoeuer Statutes, Constitutions of Prelates, Senates, Chapters, and Conuents of the Religious, and of the [ 30] Vice-royes, Courts, and Counsels; and that in the Indies, and in these Kingdoms, in matter de∣pendant of them it should bee obeyed: that the gouernment of the Indies should bee like this of these Kingdomes, and that more in particular the Counsell doe occupie it selfe in the matters of gouernment.* 2.486 That in Suites remitted those of the Councell Royall shall come to giue their voyces to that of the Indies, and that two voyces shall make a Sentence in suites of 500. d 2.487 Pesos, or vnder. That there be a second Supplication in a case of 10000. Pesos: that they deale not in the reparti∣tions of the Indians in those parts, but the Processes well perused in the Courts according to a Law, called of Malinas (for there it was made) they shall come to the Supreme Counsell: touch∣ing order to be held in matters of seruices, that the Counsell doe see them all; and in matters of [ 40] rewards, that which the greatest part doth determine, shall be done, and that in these there be a Supplication, and that no expedient suite be seene the third time: and that in the matters they doe resolue with breuitie, that the charges be giuen to the best deseruing, and that they be not gi∣uen to the allied and kinsmen of them of the Counsell; neither may such bee Solicitors, nor At∣turneys; in the prouidings of the Offices no price shall be admitted: nor that they of the Coun∣sell haue any Indians of repartition, and they shall assist in their houses, that the Suiters may find them there, when they goe not to Counsel: and that due secrecy be kept in all things, and aboue all that the Counsell haue a particular care of the Conuersion and good Instruction of the Indians, and of the spirituall gouernment; and that of e 2.488 600000. Marmediz vpward the appeale shall come to the Counsell; that they may appeale from the Sentences in the fiue Cases of naturall death, or [ 50] mayming of a member, or other bodily punishment, publike shame, or racking, and the appeales shall come to the Counsell, with many other laudable orders, which are omitted for breuities sake.

That the President being a learned man, shall haue a voice in matters of Gouernment, gratuities,* 2.489 and fauours, visitations, and accompts, and not in suits, because he may be the more free for the gouernment of the Counsell; and being vnlearned he shall haue no voice, but in matters of grace, gouernment, and fauour, and that he may assemble the Counsell in his owne house, and haue a noate of the businesses, and that the Counsellours doe not accompany with the Suitors. And be∣cause it seemed a necessary thing that one Fiscad or Atturney should assist in Counsell, it was com∣manded he should haue the same stipend that the Counsellours, and that they deliuer him the dis∣patches of the Office, that he haue a care to know how that is accomplished which is prouided [ 60] for the Indies▪ that necessary Papers be giuen him for his Office, that he doe see the visitations before Counsell: that he haue a book to register all the capitulations that are taken with the King, another wherein he may set down the Atturneys Pleas: that he delay not the suits: that his de∣mands, or those that are against him be admitted, if the Counsel think it good: that he keep a book of that which is concluded for the cases; that he haue a care to know the Officers that doe omit to send a relation euery yeere to the Counsell.

Hauing ordained all that which appertaineth to the Counsell, which is the head of this Go∣uernment,* 2.490 with many other orders which are not rehearsed for breuitie; they proceeded in orde∣ring all the Prouinces of the Indies, in the matters of iustice, as neede required: and these Catholike Kings desiring the common good of that new world, that their subiects that should possesse it, ha∣uing a zeale to the seruice of our Lord God, good, profit, & ease of the said Subiects, & to the Peace, and quietnesse of the Towns, as the King is bound vnto God, and to them, for to accomplish with the Office that he hath in earth, hee thought good to command to place the Courts and Royall Chanceries, that (as hath beene said) are in the Indies, with the Statutes, and orders that hath beene giuen them, that the Ministers may doe their office, and iustice be well administred, and the Townes obtained the benefit pretended.

The first Court that was established, was in the Citie of Saint Dominicke in the Iland Hispanio∣la,* 2.491 [ 10] with one President a learned man, though now because of the warre he is a Souldiour, with ti∣tle of Captaine Generall, and foure Iustices that beare rods, like an * 2.492 Alcalde, and deale in ciuill and criminall matters, in a degree of apeale, and in the instance in matter of Court, and the Go∣uernment is onely commended to the President (which now is in Don Antonio Ossorio) and the limits thereof.* 2.493 The second Court was established in the Citie of Mexico, in New Spaine: the first President which was Nunyo of Guzman, had no authoritie, for he was placed but for a sea∣son: with the second Court, the Bishop. D. Sebastian Ramirez (for he was so in the Court of His∣panyola) he had the Gouernment of the Kingdomes, and the supreame authoritie, and hee left that, established that which belonged vnto it, and vnto iustice, as at this present it is. The Presi∣dent [ 20] of this Court is the Vice-roy (which now is the Earle of Monterrey) there are eight Iustices, which doe iudge in ciuill matters, and in the appeale of the cases of gouernment which the Vice-roy establisheth. There are three Iust••ces of criminall cases, which beare rods, and deale in criminal cases, and two Atturnies, one of ciuill, another of criminall causes, and hee prouideth the Rulers charges that are not reserued to the King, and the other Officers, an•• helpes of cost in releases, and vacacions in the limits of this Court of Mexico,* 2.494 and in that Counsell of new Galicia.

The third Court was that of Panama in Terra firme (for this name was giuen to it, because it was the first place where from the Ilands the Castillanes went to inhabit, and as their common speech was to say that they went and came from the Firme Land,* 2.495 though other Prouinces were found in the firme land of that Orbe) this Prouince continued this name, loosing that of Castilla del Oro, [ 30] wherewith the Kings commanded it should be called: and when the affaires of Peru grew grea∣ter, in the yeare 1542. It was thought good that this Court should be remoued to the Citie of The Kings, where the Vice-roy (which now is Do•• Lewis of Velasco) hath at his charge the go∣uernment of these limits,* 2.496 and that of the Courts of the Charcas and Quito. There is in this Court of the Kings eight Iustices, three Iustices of Court, and two Atturneys, in the same order as in Mexico: and the Vice-roy is resident in the Citie of the Kings, and is the President of this Court, and shall be in the other two, when he is present in them, and doth diuide all the repartitions of Indians that are voide in the bounds of them.

The fourth Court was established in the Prouince of the Confines, and seeming it was needlesse it was dissolued,* 2.497 and the yeare 1570. it was established againe in the Citie of Saint Iames, of [ 40] the Kingdome of Guatemala: in it is one President which is the Doctor Cria•••• of Castile: foure Iustices with rods, and one Attorney. They sit on ciuill and criminall cases, in appeales, and in the first instance: in matters of Court the President onely hath the Gouernment, and assigneth the Indians, prouideth the Rulerships, and other Offices temporall. The fift Court was establish∣ed in the Citie of Sancta Fe de Bogata▪ in the new Kingdome of Granada, with one President (which now is the Doctor Francisco de Sande) foure Iustices with rods,* 2.498 and one Atturney, with the same authority that the former. The sixt was established in the Citie of Guadalaiara, of the new King∣dome of Gall••cia, with one Regent, three chiefe Iustices, which dispatched a great while with∣out Seale, and the matters increasing, the Seale was giuen, and a Register, and a President was pla∣ced, which now is Doctor Sanctiago de Vera: and three Iustices with rods, one Atturney, and the [ 50] Viceroy of New Spain hath the Gouernment. The seuenth Court, was placed in the Citie of Sai••t Francis of Quito,* 2.499 of the Prouince of Piru, where there was also a Regent, chiefe Iustices without Seale, and afterward the Court was established with a President (which now is the Licentiat Miguel de Vuarar) with three Iustices with rods,* 2.500 & one Atturny with the same faculty of Guada∣laiara, the gouernment, & the rest remaining to the Vice-roy of Piru, as abouesaid. The eight Court was in the Citie of the Plate, in the Prouince of the Charcas, with a Regent and chiefe Iustices: af∣ter there was placed a President, foure Iustices with rods, Atturney, Seale, and Register, and now is President the Licentiat Cepeda,* 2.501 with reseruation of the prouiding the charges, and the rest to the Vice-roy of Piru.* 2.502 The ninth Court, is that which was established againe in the Citie of Panama, with a President of Sword and Cloake, because of the matters of warre, which is now Don Alonso de Sotomayor, with the title of Captaine Generall of Terra firme: there are three Iustices with [ 60] roddes, which doe deale in Appeales of ciuill and criminall cases, and at first instance in mat∣ters of Court, and it hath onely the Gouernment. In the Citie of Saint Iames, of the Pro∣uince of Chile, was placed the tenth Court, and because it seemed needelesse, it was dissol∣ued,

and a Gouernour was prouided, which dependeth on the Viceroy of Piru. In the Citie of the Philippinas, called Manila, was a Court, and it was dissolued, because it see∣med needelesse: a few yeares since it was established againe, with a Captaine Generall which is Don Peter of Acunya which is President, and foure Iustices, and one Atturney, with the same authoritie that the other Courts. For the Catholike Kings of Castile, with the aduise of the supreme Councell of the Indies, doe alwayes prouide with a sincere and iust minde, that which is conuenient for the preseruation, and augmenting of the spirituall and temporall things of those parts, without any spare of expences, or labor: and euery Court hath according to the vse of these Kingdomes, Secretaries, Relators, Sergeants, Porters, and the Officers which are necessarie.

[ 10]

THe harmonie and agreement of this great Monarchie▪ is such,* 2.503 that to euery Minister hath beene giuen the authoritie that as well by reason of estate, as for the reputation of iustice hath seemed to be conuenient, reseruing to the supreme Maiestie that which hath beene iudged to be necessarie to his authoritie. For to the Vice-royes and Presidents, that they may haue to reward the well-deseruing, and they be more respected, there are Offices assigned which they may prouide, and matters wherein they may gratifie, and to the prouiding of the Person Royall haue remayned, with consultation of the supreme Councell of the Indies the offices following.

For the Kingdome of Chile a Gouernour and a learned Iustice, with facultie to incommend or authorise the Indians: another for Tucuman, with the same facultie:* 2.504 another for the Prouinces of the Riuer of Plate, for Popayan, Sancta Martha, Cartagena, and Veragua, with their Gouernour [ 20] in euery one with the same power. In the Prouinces of Nicaragua, and the Rich Coast, one: in the Iland of Cuba one Gouernour, and Captaine which is resident in the Citie of Saint Christo∣pher of the Auana: there are besides the Gouernours of the Iland of Saint Iohn of Porte-rico, Ve∣nezuela, Soconusco, Yucatan, Cozu••el, and Tabasco, which is all one gouernment with authoritie to commend the Indians. His Maiestie prouideth also the gouernments of Honduras, the Mar∣garite, Florida, new Bisquie, Dorado, those of the new Realme of Lion, and that of Pacanoras, Ygual∣sango, which are for terme of life, and the same in the Prouinces of Choco, Quixos, the Cynamom, Ilands of Salomon, Sancta Cruz of the Hill, and the last is that of the new Andalusia.

Likewise there are prouided by his Maiestie the Rulerships following. The Cuzco, the Citie of the Plate, and the seate of the mynes of Potosi, and the prouince of Chicuito,* 2.505 the Andes of Cuz∣co, [ 30] the citie of Truxillo, Arrequipa, Saint Iames of Guayaquil, Guamanga, the citie of the Peace, Chiquiabo, Saint Iohn of the Frontier, Lion of Guanuco, Old Hauen, Zamora, the inhabiting of the mynes of the Zacatecas in new Galicia, Cuenca, Loxa, Tunja, the citie of Mexico, the citie of the Kings, the prouince of Nicoya. Chiefe Iusticeships, are those of the village of Saint Sauiour of the prouince of Guatemala, the inward part of Hispaniola, * 2.506 Nombre de Dios, the village of Chuluteca, prouince of the Chiapa, Zapotlitan, the village of Nata, Sancta Marie of the victorie in Tabasco. And the chiefe Bayliwickes are, in the citie of Saint Dominicke in Mexico, in Guadalajara, Saint Iames of Guatemala, Panama, holy Faith of Bogota, Saint Francis of Quito, the citie of the Kings, the Plata. In the Cities recited in euery one is a chiefe Bayliefe, which hath a voice in Councell as a Ruler, and Deputies named, for the vse of his Office, and in euery Court is another chiefe [ 40] Bayliefe with facultie to name other two Deputies.

For the gouernment of the goods Royall are prouided by his Maiestie, with the opinion of the supreme Councell of the Indies, many Officers, Factors, Treasurers, Tellers, and Ouer-seers, which all doe giue assurance in Castile and in the Indies, of good and faithfull administration: and because this new Commonwealth doth augment so much, it seemed behoofefull to the seruice of God, and of the King, to ennoble and authorize it more, with placing two Vice-royes, one in New Spaine, another in the Kingdomes of Piru, that in the Kings name they should gouerne and prouide the things belonging to the seruice of God, and of the King, and to the conuersion and instruction of the Indians, sustayning, continuing, inhabiting, and ennobling of the said King∣domes, which experience hath shewed, that it hath beene conuenient: to the which Vice-royes instructions are giuen very particular of that which is recited, and that they may haue in prote∣ction [ 50] the holy office of the Inquisition, and with their strong arme to defend and protect it, that this conformitie as a fast knot, may be the pure and true preseruation of the spirituall and tem∣porall Estate, which is the best and truest estate, and most according to the Euangelicall estate.

The Vice-royes are commanded also, and likewise the Iudges, not to haue houses proper,* 2.507 nor to trafficke, nor contract, nor be serued of the Indians, neither haue any * 2.508 Grangeries, nor meddle in Armies, nor Discoueries; that they receiue no guifts nor presents of any person; nor borrow mony, nor any thing to eate; nor pleade, nor receiue arbitrements. That no Lawyer may plead where his father, father in law, brother in law, cousin, or sonne is Iudge. That no Vice-roy, President, Iustice, Iudge of the criminall Cases, Solicitor, nor their children may marry in the In∣dies. [ 60] That no Gouernours, Rulers, nor their Deputies, may buy Lands, nor build Houses, nor trafficke in their iurisdiction. That they may not farme the Bayliwickes, nor Iaylorships, nor other offices. That no Gouernour, Ruler, nor chiefe Bayliefe, during the time of his office, may marry in the bounds of his iurisdiction. That no Iudge be prouided for a Ruler, neither shall the

said Iudges, or Bayliefs, haue any charge in which they are to make any absence from their offi∣ces: neither shall any office of iustice be giuen to the sonnes, sonne in law, brothers in law, nor fathers in law of Presidents, Iustices, nor Solicitors, nor to the Officers of the Courts, and of the goods Royal, neither to seruants nor allied of theirs: and the same is commanded the Vice-royes. And that none of the abouesaid Ministers, doe accept warrant for recoueries nor other things, nor serue themselues of the Indians without paying them. That no Aduocate, Scriuene••, nor Re∣lator, doe dwell in the house of Iudge, nor Bayliefe, nor the Suiters serue the Iudges. That the Iudges of Panama, doe not accompanie themselues with the Dealers, nor giue leaue to their wiues to accompanie them. And that no Iustices of all the Courts, shall haue much communication with the Suiters, Aduocates, nor Atturneys: neither in body of a Court to goe to Marriages, Fu∣nerals, [ 10] nor Spousals, except it be a very weighty matter: neither visite any Neighbour for any cause. That they doe not meddle in matters of the Commonwealth, nor any Iustice, nor other minister of the Court, may haue two offices in it. And besides these many other Ordinances, and good Lawes, which are all concerning administration of iustice.

* 2.509ANd because these Catholike Kings haue left nothing which most wisely they haue not pro∣uided for according to their dutie, the first thing they command the Vice-royes, and all the Ministers in generall and particular is, the good vsage of the Indians, and their preseruation, and the accomplishing of the Orders which are made as touching this, for to punish the Offenders with great rigour: and as the Indians doe learne the Castillan policie, and can complaine, and know in what things they receiue wrong, for their greater ease it is prouided, that they giue no [ 20] place that the ordinarie writings be made in the suites betweene, or with the Indians, neither make any delayes, as it is wont to happen, by the malice of some Aduocates, and Atturneys, but that summarily they be determined, keeping their vses and customes, not being manifestly in∣iust,* 2.510 and that by all meanes possible, they doe prouide the good and short dispatch of them. And hauing notice that in the interpretation of the Indians languages, there were some fraudes; for to preuent all, it was ordayned, that euery interpretation be made by two Interpreters, which shall not confer both together about that which is controuerted by the Indian: and that before they be receiued to the vse of the office, they shall take their oath to administer it faithfully, and that they receiue no guifts of the Indians suiters, nor of others. That they doe assist at the Agree∣ments, [ 30] Courts, and visitations of the Prisons. That in their houses they heare not the Indians, but to carry them to the Court. That the Interpreters be not Solicitors, not Atturneys of the Indians. That they aske them nothing. And for their greater good, it is prouided, that the At∣turney of the supreme Councell of the Indies, bee Protector of the Indians, and defend them in their suites, and aske in the Councell all the necessarie things for his instruction, preseruation, and politike life: and now there are appointed Protectors in the Kingdomes of Piru, and New Spaine, with new orders for their better vsage.

It is also commanded, to set vp Schooles of the Castillane tongue, that the Indians may learne it,* 2.511 and may doe it from their childhood; and that no vagabond Spaniard doe dwell or remayne in the Townes of the Indians, nor among them, but that the Vice-royes and the Courts, doe put [ 40] all diligence in driuing such out of the Land, shipping them for Castile: and the * 2.512 Countrie borne be compelled to serue and to learne Trades. And as well to the Prelates, as to the Vice-royes, Courts, Gouernours, and Rulers, and other whatsoeuer Iustices, is ordayned, and particular care is had they doe accomplish it, that they doe prouide how the offences that were done to God may cease, in the Indians marrying whiles they are children, without hauing respect of age: the Caziques marrying with more then one woman, though he be an Infidell: in hindering that when some Cazique did die they should kill another to bee buried with him, and other like abo∣minable vses. That it be permitted to the Indians that they may dispose of themselues what they list, as free men, and exempted from all manner labour, though it shall bee procured that they doe labour and not be idle, and may haue libertie to dispose of their goods, the Lands being set to [ 50] sale by out-cry thirty dayes, and the moueable nine, the Iustice being present. That the Lands remayning of any Indian deceasing without a Will, shall remayne in the Townes where they dwelt. That they make the Markets freely, and sell in them their merchandize. That their good vses and ancient customes be approued. That they may send to these Kingdomes Indian Attur∣neys for three yeeres. That the * 2.513 Residencies be published in the Indian Townes, to see if any will demand iustice. That in euery Towne of the Indians there bee an Hospitall with the things necessarie.

In this matter of the Indian slaues, there were in the beginning of the Discoueries diuers opi∣nions,* 2.514 and orders, gouerning themselues as the time required and the state of the things: but af∣ter the Bishop Don Sebastian Ramirez came for President of New Spaine, this vse was absolutely [ 60] abolished, notwithstanding the ancient one which the Indians had to make themselues slaues one to another: neither might they buy of them, nor receiue them, neither that any person may bring to these Kingdomes any Indian in title of a slaue, though he be taken in lawfull warre: and for this are so straight orders giuen that they are effectually kept, and so in no place of the Indies

are Indian slaues, though they be out of the bounds of Castile and Lion. And to eschew this in∣conuenience the more, the bringing Indians to these parts for whatsoeuer title it bee, is forbidden.

And the q••ietnesse for the Commonwealth being aboue all very necessarie, facultie is giuen to the Vice-royes, Presidents, Gouernours, and other Iustices, that they may driue away,* 2.515 and ba∣nish from the Indies all vnquiet persons, and send them to these Kingdomes, iudging it so to bee conuenient for the quietnesse of those, but that it bee not for hatred or passion, nor for an•• such reason.

And that it may be some bridle to the Superiors, they are commanded, that they hinder no man the writing to the King, to his Councell, and to other persons, what they will: neither o∣pen, [ 10] nor take any papers, or letters, vnder great penalties, and that they permit to passe and repasse through the Countrie them that will, prouiding wayes and b••idges in the places where they are wanting.

As touching the matters of Warre, it is also prouided with great deliberation, for the Vice-royes greater authoritie, facultie is giuen them to haue a Guard on foot,* 2.516 and on Horse-backe: to make a casting place for Ordnance and Bullets, and a building for munitions, to leuy men, arme ships, and make fortifications, and prouide all the rest conuenient for the defence of those King∣domes, and how the excesses of the Souldiers may be eschewed, as well by Land as by Sea, and to them that goe in the fleetes, committing the punishing of them to whom it belongeth, for to excuse competencies of iurisdiction.

[ 20] It hath already beene said how all the Gouernment of this Orbe,* 2.517 depends of the supreme and Royall Councell of the Indies, that are neere the Person Royall. But as it is necessarie that the exe∣cutions of those parts haue correspondence in these; and here also there be they that may prouide in effecting that is behoofefull for the matters there: it was necessarie to place in Siuil, where all the trafficke of the Indies doth come, a house Royall of contrataction of it, that medleth not but in the dispatching of those businesses, and dependants of them, without any person nor Iustice doe intermeddle in any thing belonging to the Indian affaires: and it is in substance, a Tribunall of great authoritie, in the which is a President, which now is Don Bernardino Delgadi••••o of Auel∣laneda, a Teller, a Treasurer, one Factor, three learned Iudges, one Solicitor, one Relator, one Sergeant, Scriueners, Porter, Iaylor, and other Officers. In the Ilands of Tenerife and Palma, are [ 30] placed two learned Iudges, called Officers Royall, or Iudges of the Registers, to cause Orders to be kept that are giuen for the lading and Registers of those Ilands, and Nauigation of that voy∣age. The house of the Contrataction hath her instruction and ordinances, how her iurisdiction is to be gouerned and exercised, and the learned Iudges haue it also for their vse and exercise, kee∣ping in the seeing of the plea, betweene parties, the order that is held in the Courts of Valladolid, and Granada: and because the particular care of the officers of this house, is the dispatch of the Fleetes and Armies, that they may depart in due times, they employ themselues in it with great diligence, and in receiuing them that come, and setting in safeguard the Gold, Siluer, Iewels, and other things that doe come, with a distinction of the waight and carracts, charging themselues [ 40] with all, that there may be more account and reason, and for to make the prouisions of the Fleetes and Armies. There are so good orders giuen, that neither the Ministers doe exceed, nor the Sub∣iects receiue wrong, for all passeth very conformable to the intention of these Godly and Catho∣like Kings, by meanes of the great diligence of the supreme Councell of the Indies.

And because the businesses of the Indies haue increased so much,* 2.518 that the supreme Councell could not dispatch them with the breuitie conuenient to the good gouernment of that Orbe, and the benefit of the Suiters, with the aduice of the President and supreme Councell; the King Don Philip the third our Lord, in imitation of his Catholike and Godly Predecessors, for the greater good of his subiects, hath instituted a Priuie Councell, where all the businesses of spirituall and tem∣porall warrants, fauours and rewards may bee conferred and dispatched: and besides this, there are two Halls instituted, where on dayes appointed they may intreat of matters of warre, with [ 50] the President and three Counsellors of the Indies, and two or three of the Counsell of warre, and other dayes, of the matters of the goods, by the President and Counsellors of Indies, and two of the Counsell of the goods, Atturney, and Secretarie of the Counsell of the Indies, the President naming those that he shall thinke best for it.

And as these Catholike Kings doe alwayes looke to the benefit of the people of that Orbe, considering that the propagation of the holy Gospell in no part of it could goe more prosperously by any other hands then his, nor bee attended for his preseruation,* 2.519 and to haue the Conquerours and Inhabiters of those parts more satisfied, seeing all were his Subiects, and borne in these King∣domes, declared by their Royall warrants, dated the yeere 1520. in Valladolid, and in the yeere 1523. in Pamplona, that their Maiesties, nor any of their Heires, in no time shall alienate from [ 60] the Crowne Royall of Castile and Lion, the Ilands and Prouinces of the Indies, Towne, or any part of them, and so they promised it and gaue their Royall word.

The Presidents, Counsellors, Secretaries, and Atturneys, which vnto this present day haue serued, and doe serue in the Supreme Councell of the In∣dies, from their first Discouerie.

PRESIDENTS.

IOhn Rodriguez of Fonseca, brother to the Lord of Coca and Alaejos, Archbishop of Rosano, and Bishop of Burgos, being Deane of Siuil, gouerned that which appertayned to the dispatching of the Fleets and Armies of the In∣dies, till the Catholike King Don Fernando V. called him, to the end that in his Court hee might take charge of the Indian affaires, and he did it till the Emperor came to reigne, which commanded that the Doctor Mercurino Gati∣nara his great Chancellor, should be Superin∣tendent of all the Councels, and all the dispat∣ches passed through his hands, and intermedled in all the Assemblies that were made.

Friar Garcia of Loaysa Generall of the Or∣der of Saint Dominicke, the Emperours Con∣fessor, Bishop of Osma, which was Archbishop of Siuil, and Cardinall.

Don Garcia Manrique, Earle of Os••rno, which being Assistant of Siuil, did gouerne till the Cardinall came from Rome.

Don Lewis Hurtado of Mendoça, Marques of Mondejar, which after was President of the Royall and supreme Councell of Castile.

The Licenciate Don Franciscus Tello of San∣doual, which hauing beene of the Councell of the Indies, went for President of the Royall Chancerie of Granada, and from thence came to gouerne in the Councell of Indies.

The Licenciate Don Iohn Sarmiento was al∣so of the Councell of the Indies, and after went to gouerne in the Royal Chancerie of Granada, from whence he returned to be President of the Royall and supreme Councell of the Indies.

Lewis Quixada, Lord of Villagarcia, and of the Councell of Warre.

The Licenciate Iohn of Obando, of the su∣preme Councell of the holy Inquisition, did preside in the Councell of the Indies, and of the goods Royall.

The Licenciate Don Antonio de Padilla, of the Royal and supreme Counsell of Castile, pas∣sed to be President of the Councell of the Or∣ders, and after to the supreme Councell of the Indies.

The Licenciate Hernando of Vega and Fon∣seca, of the supreme Councell of the holy and generall Inquisition, passed to the Councell of the goods Royall, and from it to the Royall and supreme Councell of the Indies.

The Licenciate Don Pedro de Moya of Con∣treras, the first Inquisitor that went to Mexico for to seate the holy Office in that Citie. Hee was Archbishop of that Citie, and President of the supreme Councell of the Indies.

The Licenciate Paul of Laguna, of the Roy∣all and supreme Councell of Castile, and of the holy and generall Inquisition, passed to gouerne in the Councell of the goods Royall and Tribu∣nals of it, and was after President of the su∣preme Councell of the Indies: and in his time began the Royall Councell of the House-hold.

[ 10]

COVNSELLORS.

HErnando of Vega, Lord of Grajal, which was chiefe Knight of Lion, and President of the Councell of Orders. Licenciate Lewis Zapata. Licenciate Moxica. Doctor S. Iames. Doctor Palacios Penbios. Doctor Gonçalo Mal∣donado, which was Bishop of the citie Rodrigo. Master Lewis Vaca, Bishop of Canarie. Doctor Aguirre. Doctor Mota, Bishop of Badajoz. Doctor Sosa. Doctor Peter Martyr of Angle∣ria, Abbot of Iamayca. Mosiur of Lassao, of [ 20] the Emperours Chamber, and of the Councell of Estate. Licenciate Garcia of Padilla, of the habit of Calatrana. Doctor Beltran. Doctor Galindez of Caruajal. Doctor Bernal. Licen∣ciate Peter Manuel, Licenciate Rodrick of the Court. Licenciate Montoya. Licenciate Mer∣cado. Licenciate Antonie of Aguilera. Licen∣ciate Don Hernando of Salas. Licenciate Iohn Thomas. Doctor Villafanye. Licenciate Bottel∣b•• [ 30] Maldonado. Licenciate Otalora. Licenciate Iames Gas••a of Salazar. Licenciate Gamboa. Doctor Gomez of Santillana. Licenciate Espa∣dero. Licenciate Don Iames of Zunnigo. Licen∣ciate Lopez of Sarria. Licenciate Enao. Do∣ctor Lope of Bayllo. Licenciate Gedeon of Yno∣josa, of the habit of Saint Iames. Licenciate Villafanne. Doctor Antonie Gonçalez. Licen∣ciate Franciscus Balcazar. Licenciate Medina of Sarauz. Licenciate Don Lewis of Mercado. [ 40] Doctor Peter Gutierrez Flores. Licenciate Pe∣ter Dayes of Tudança. Licenciate Benitte Ro∣driguez Valtodano. Licenciate Austine Aluarez of Toledo, and of the Chamber. Doctor Don Roderick Zapata. Licenciate P••••er Brano of So∣tomayor. Licenciate Molina of Medrano, of the habit of Saint Iames, & of the Chamber, Com∣missioner of this Historie. Licenciate Iames of Armenteros. Licenciate Alonso Perez of Sala∣zar. Licenciate Gonçalo of Aponte, and of the Chamber. Licenciate Don Iohn of Ocon, of the [ 50] habit of Calatrana. Licenciate Hernando of Saanedra. Licenciate Don Thomas Ximenez Or∣tiz. Licenciate Eugenius of Salazar. Licen∣ciate Don Franciscus Arias Maldonado. Licen∣ciate Andrew of Ayala. Licenciate Benauente of Benauides. Licenciate Roocke of Villagutier∣re Chumazero.

SECRETARIES. [ 60]

IOhan Colona. Michael Perez of Almazan. Gaspar of Gricio. The Knight Lope of Con∣chillos. Franciscus of the Cobos, chiefe Com∣mander of Leon. Iohn of Samano. The Com∣mander

Franciscus of Eraso. Antonie of Era∣so. The Commander Iohn of Ybarra.

ATTVRNEYS or SOLLICITORS.

THe Licenciate Franciscus of Vargas. Li∣cenciate Prado. Licenciate Martin Ruyz of Agreda. Doctor Franciscus Hernandez of Liebana. Licenciate Ierome of Vlloa. Licen∣ciate Gamboa. Licenciate Lopez of Sarria. Li∣cenciate Seipion Antol••••ez. Licenciate Negro••. Doctor Valençuela. Doctor Marcus Caro. Li∣cenciate Bennet Rodriguez of Valtodano. Li∣cenciate Alonso Perez of Salazar. Licenciate Ro••cke of Villagutierre Chumazero.

[ 10] The Gouernours, and Vice-royes, which haue gouerned vntill this time, the King∣domes of New Spaine, and of Piru.

In New Spaine.

DOn Fernando Cortes Marques of the Val∣ley. Gouernour, chiefe Iustice, and Cap∣taine generall.

The Licenciate Lewis Pance, of the House of the Duke of Arcos, Iudge of* 4.1 Residencie, with facultie to take the gouernment, and by his death the Licenciate Marcus of Aguilar, natu∣rall [ 20] of the Citie of Ezija, was subrogated his Deputie, and because of his death succeeded within two moneths; hee substituted his au∣thorities in the Treasurer Alonso of Estrada, borne in Citie Royall: and the death of Lewis Pance being knowne in Castile, it was proui∣ded that Marcus of Aguilar should gouerne, and in defect of him, Alonso of Estrada, till the first Court came, with order that Nunne of Guzman, Knight of Guadalajara, Gouernour [ 30] of Panuco, a President did come: and because it was conuenient to take away those Iudges, o∣thers were sent in their places, and for Presi∣dent in the gouernment vniuersall of New Spaine, Don Sebastian Ramirez of Fuenleal, Bi∣shop of Saint Dominicke, and of the Conception, late President of the Court of Saint Dominicke, a man of great learning, and that after many dignities died in Castile Bishop of Cuenca, and then the charge of Captaine generall was gi∣uen [ 40] anew to the Marques Don Hernando Cor∣tes, that he might gouerne the matters of warre, with the aduise of Don Sebastian Ramirez.

The first that had title of Vice-roy and Cap∣taine generall of New Spaine, was Don Antonie of Mendoça, brother of the Marques of Mon∣dejar.

Don Lewis of Velasco, a Gentleman of the House of the high Constable of Castile.

Don Gaston of Peralta, Marques of Falces.

[ 50] Don Martine Enriquez of Almansa, brother of the Marques of Alcannizes, the Kings Ste∣ward.

Don Laurence Xuarez of Mendoça, Earle of Corunya, which deceased being prouided for Piru, and by his death Don Peter Moya of Con∣treras, Archbishop of Mexico, gouerned in the meane while.

Don Aluaro Manrique of Zunniga, Marques of Villamamuque, brother of the Duke of Bojar.

[ 60] Don Lewis of Velasco, sonne to the abouesaid Don Lewis of Velasco, which passed to gouerne the Kingdomes of Piru, where at this present hee is.

Don Gaspar of Zunniga and Fonseca, Earle of Monterrey, which gouerneth at this day.

In the Kingdomes of Piru.

DOn Franciscus Piçarro, Marques of the Charcas, Gouernour, chiefe Iustice, and Captaine generall.

The Licenciate Vaca of Castro, of the habit of Saint Iames, of the supreme Councell of Ca∣stile, carried Title of Gouernour generall.

Blasco Nunnez Vela, a Gentleman of Auila, was the first that carried the Title of Vice-roy and Captaine generall of the Kingdomes of Piru.

The Licenciate Iames de la Gasca, of the Councell of the holy and generall Inquisition, carried the Title of President of the new Court that was sent to the Citie of The Kings, and of Gouernour generall, with facultie to giue the gouernment of Armes to whom hee thought best. He died Bishop of Siguença, and his Fu∣nerall and Trophees are seene in Magdalene Church in Valladolid, and in his absence the go∣uernment remayned to the Court of the Citie of The Kings.

The second that carried Title of Vice-roy and Captaine generall, was Don Antonie of Mendoça, that gouerned the Kingdoms of New Spaine.

Don Andrew H••rtado of Mendoça, Marques of Ca••yete.

Don Iames of Zunyga and Velasco, Earle of Nieua.

The Licenciate Lope Garcia of Castro, of the Royall and supreme Councell of the Indies, caried title of President and Gouernor general.

Don Franciscus of Toledo, brother to the Earle of Oropesa, Steward to the King.

Don Martin Enriquez, from the charge of New Spaine, passed to gouerne the Kingdomes of Piru.

Don Garcia of Mendoça, Marques of Cauyete.

Don Lewis of Velasco, from the charge of New Spaine, passed to the Kingdomes of Piru, where now he is, and at the instant of the im∣pression of this Worke, is prouided for Vice-roy and Captaine generall of those Kingdomes, Don Iohn Pacheco, Duke of Escalona.

Printed at Madrid by Iuan Flamenco. A••. 1601.

CHAP. II. Obseruations gathered out of the First, Second, Third, and Fourth bookes of IOSEPHVS ACOSTA a learned Iesuite, touching the naturall hi∣storie of the Heauens, Ayre, Water, and Earth at the west Indies. Also of their Beasts, Fishes, Fowles, Plants, and other remarkable rarities of Nature.

[ 10]

§. I. Of the fashion and forme of Heauen, at the new-found World, and of the Ayre and Windes.

* 5.1MAny in Europe demand, of what forme and fashion. Heauen is in the Southerne parts▪ for that there is no certaintie found in ancient Books, who although they grant there is a Heauen on this other part of the World, yet come they not to any knowledge of the forme thereof, although in truth they make mention of a goodly great Starre seene in those parts, which they call Canopus. Those which [ 20] of late dayes haue sayled into these parts,* 5.2 haue accustomed to write strange things of this Heauen; that it is very bright, hauing many goodly Starres: and in effect, things which come farre, are commonly described with encrease. But it seemes contrarie vnto me, hol∣ding it for certaine, that in our Region of the North, there is a greater number and bigger starres; finding▪ no starres in these parts, which exceede the Fisher or the Chariot in bignesse. It is true, that the Crosse in these parts is very faire and pleasing to behold:* 5.3 we call the Crosse, foure no∣table and apparant starres, which make the forme of a crosse, set equally and with proportion. The ignorant suppose this crosse to be the Southerne Pole, for that they see the Nauigators take their heigth thereby, as wee are accustomed to doe by the North starre. But they are deceiued, [ 30] and the reason, why Saylers doe it in this sort, is for that in the South parts there is no fixed starre that markes the Pole, as the North starre doth to our Pole. And therefore they take their heigth by the starre at the foote of the Crosse, distant from the true and fixed Pole Antarticke thirtie degrees, as the North starre is distant from the Pole Articke three degrees or little more. And so it is more difficult to take the heigth in those parts, for that the said starre at the foote of the Crosse must be right, the which chanceth but in one houre of the night; which is in diuers seasons of the yeere in diuers houres, and oftentimes it appeareth not in the whole night, so as it is very difficult to take the height. And therefore the most expert Pilots regard not the Crosse, taking the height of the Sunne by the Astrolabe,* 5.4 by which they know in what height they are: wherein commonly the Portugals are more expert as a Nation that hath more discourse in the [ 40] Arte of Nauigation then any other. There are also other starres in these Southerne parts, which in some sort resemble those of the North.* 5.5 That which they call the Milken way, is larger and more resplendent in the South parts, appearing therein those admirable blacke spots, whereof we haue made mention.

Considering with my selfe oftentimes, what should cause the Equinoctiall to bee so moist, as I haue said;* 5.6 to refute the opinion of the Ancients, I finde no other reason, but the great force of the Sunne in those parts, whereby it drawes vnto it a great abundance of vapours from out of the Ocean, which in those parts is very great and spacious: and hauing drawne vnto it this great abundance of vapours, doth suddenly dissolue them into raine, and it is approued by many tried experiences, that the raine and great stormes from Heauen proceed from the violent heate [ 50] of the Sunne: first (as we haue said before) it raines in those Countries, when as the Sunne casts his beames directly vpon the earth, at which time he hath most force: but when the Sunne re∣tires, the heate is moderate, and then there falls no raine: whereby wee may conclude, that the force and heate of the Sunne is the cause of raine in those Countries. Moreouer we obserue, both in Peru, new Spaine, and in all the burning Zone, that the raine doth vsually fal in the afternoone, when as the Sunne beames are in their greatest force, being strange to see it raine in the mor∣ning. And therefore Trauellers foreseeing it, begin their iourneys early, that they may end and rest before noone, for they hold that commonly it raines after noone. Such as haue frequented and trauelled those Countries, can sufficiently speake thereof. And there are, that (hauing made some abode there) say, that the greatest abundance of raine is, when the Moone is at the full; [ 60] but to say the truth, I could neuer make sufficient proofe thereof, although I haue obserued it. Moreouer, the dayes, the yeere, and the moneths, shew the truth hereof, that the violent hea••e of the Sunne causeth the raine in the burning Zone: experience teacheth vs the like in artificiall things, as in a Limbecke, wherein they draw waters from herbs and flowers; for the vehe∣mency

of the fire forceth and driueth vp an abundance of vapours, which being pressed, and fin∣ding no issue, are conuerted into liquor and water. The like wee see in gold and siluer, which we refine with quick-siluer, the fire being small and slow, we draw out almost nothing of the quick-siluer, but if it be quick and violent, it doth greatly euaporate the quick-siluer, which encountring the head aboue, doth presently turne into liquor, and begins to drop downe: Euen so the violent heate of the Sunne produceth these two effects, when it findes matter disposed, that is, to draw vp the vapours on high, and to dissolue them presently, and turne them into raine, when there is any obstacle to consume them. And although these things seeme contrarie, that one Sunne within the burning Zone, being neere, should cause raine, and without the Zone afarre off should breed the like effect; so it is, that all well considered, there is no contrarietie. A thousand ef∣fects [ 10] in naturall causes proceed of contrarie things by diuers meanes: we drie linnen by the fire, and in the aire, and yet the one heats and the other cooles; Pastures are dried and hardened by the Sunne and with the Frost; moderate exercise prouokes sleepe, being too violent, it hindereth: if you lay no wood on the fire, it dyeth; if you lay on too much, it likewise quencheth: for the onely proportion entertaines and makes it to continue. To well discerne a thing, it must not be too neere the eye, nor too farre off, but in a reasonable distance proportionable; being too farre off from any thing we lose the sight, and too neere likewise we cannot see it. If the Sunne beams be weake, they draw vp no fogge from the Riuers, if they be violent, hauing drawne vp the va∣pours, they presently dissolue and consume them; but if the heat be moderate, it drawes vp and [ 20] preserues it: for this reason the vapours rise not commonly in the night, nor at noone, but in the morning, when as the Sunne begins to enter into his force. There are a thousand examples of naturall causes vpon this subiect, which wee see doe often grow from contrarie things: where∣by we must not wonder, if the Sunne being neere, engenders raine, and being farre off, works the like effect: but being of a moderate and proportionable distance, causeth none at all. Yet there remaines one doubt, why the neernesse of the Sunne causeth the raine vnder the burning Zone, and without when it is farthest off. In my opinion the reason is, that in Winter without the Tropicks, the Sunne hath not force s••fficient to consume the vapours which rise from the Land and Sea; for these vapours grow in great abundance in the cold Region of the aire, where they are congealed and thickned by the extremitie of the cold; and after being pressed, they dissolue and turne into water. Therefore in Winter when the Sunne is farthest off, the dayes short, and [ 30] the nights long, his heat hath small force: but when the Sunne approcheth, which is in the Summer time, his force is such as it drawes vp the vapours, and suddenly consumes and disper∣seth them; for the heat and the length of the dayes grow through the neernesse of the Sunne. But within the Tropicks vnder the burning Zone, the farre distance of the Sunne workes the same effects that the neernesse doth without the Tropicks; by reason whereof, it raines no more vnder the burning Zone when the Sunne is farre off, then without the Tropicks when it is nee∣rest, for that in this approching and retyring, the Sunne remayns alwayes in one distance whence proceedes this effect of cleernesse. But when the Sunne is in the period of his force in the bur∣ning Zone, and that he cast his beames directly vpon the Inhabitants heads, there is neither cleer∣nesse [ 40] nor drynesse, as it seemes there should be, but rather great and strange showers: for that by this violent heat, he drawes vp suddenly a great abundance of vapours from the Earth and O∣cean, which are so thicke, as the winde, not able easily to disperse them, they melt into water, which breedeth the cold raine in so great abundance: for the excessiue heat may soone draw vp many vapours, the which are not so soone dissolued: and being gathered together through their great abundance, they melt and dissolue into water. The which wee may easily discerne by this familiar example: roast a piece of Porke, Mutton, or Veale, if the fire be violent, and the meate neere, wee see the fat melts suddenly and drops away, the reason is, that the violent heat drawes forth the humour and fat from the meat, and being in great abundance cannot dissolue it, and so it distils more away: But when the fire is moderate, and the meat in an equall distance, wee see [ 50] that it roasts handsomly, and the fat drops not too suddenly, for that the moderate heat drawes out the moistnesse which it consumes suddenly. And therefore Cookes make a moderate fire, and lay not their meate too neere nor too farre off, lest it melt away. The like may bee seene in ano∣other experience in candles of tallow or waxe, if the wike bee great, it melts the tallow or the waxe, for that the heat cannot consume the moistnesse which riseth, but if the flame bee proportionable, the wax melts nor drops not, for that the flame doth waste it by little and little as it riseth.

But this is not to hinder the exceptions which Nature hath giuen to this Rule,* 5.7 making some Regions of the burning Zone extremely drie. The which is reported of Ethiopia, and wee haue seene it in a great part of Peru, where all that Land or Coast, which they call Playnes, wants [ 60] raine, yea, land waters, except some Vallies where Riuers fall from the Mountaines; the rest is a sandie and barren soile, where you shall hardly finde any Springs, but some deepe Wells. But with the helpe of God, we will shew the reason why it rayneth not in these Playnes (the which many demand;) for now I onely pretend to shew, that there are many exceptions to naturall Rules, whereby it may happen, that in some part of the burning Zone it raines not when the

Sunne is neerest, but being farthest off, although vnto this day I haue neither seene nor heard of it: but if it be so, we must attribute it to the particular qualitie of the Earth: and also, if some∣times the contrarie doth chance, we must haue regard that in naturall things there happens ma∣ny contrarieties and lets, whereby they change and dissolue one another. For example, it may be the Sunne will cause raine, and that the windes will hinder it, or else cause more abundance then hath beene vsuall.

When I passed to the Indies, I will tell what chanced vnto mee: hauing read what Poets and Philosophers write of the burning Zone,* 5.8 I perswaded my selfe, that comming to the Equino∣ctiall, I should not indure the violent heate, but it fell out otherwise; for when I passed, which was when the Sunne was there for Zenith, being entred into Aries, in the moneth of March, I felt so great cold, as I was forced to goe into the Sunne to warme me: what could I else doe then, [ 10] but laugh at Aristotles Meteors and his philosophie, seeing that in that place, and at that season, when as all should be scortched with heat, according to his rules, I, and all my companions were a cold? In truth there is no Region in the world more pleasant and temperate then vnder the Equinoctiall, although it be not in all parts of an equall temperature, but haue great diuersities. The burning Zone in some parts is very temperate,* 5.9 as in Quitto, and on the playnes of Peru; in some parts very cold, as at Potozi, and in some very hot, as in Ethiopia, Bresil, and the Molucques. This diuersitie being knowne and certaine vnto vs, wee must of force seeke out another cause of cold and heat then the Sunne beames, seeing that in one season of the yeere, and in places of one height and distance from the Pole and Equinoctiall we finde so great diuersitie, that some are in∣uironed with heat, some with cold, and others tempered with a moderate heat. [ 20]

Considering this matter generally, I finde two generall causes, which maketh this Region temperate:* 5.10 the one is that before mentioned, for that this Region is very moist and subiect to raine, and there is no doubt but the raine doth refresh it, for that the water is by nature cold; and although by the force of the fire it be made hot, yet doth it temper this heat proceeding one∣ly from the Sunne beames. The which wee see by experience in the inner Arabia, the which is burnt with the Sunne, hauing no showres to temper the violence thereof. The cloudes and mists are the cause that the Sunne offends not so much, and the showres that fall from them, re∣fresh both the Aire and the Earth, and moisten likewise how hot soeuer it be. They drinke raine water, and it quencheth the thirst, as our men haue well tried, hauing no other to drinke. So as [ 30] reason and experience doth teach vs, that raine of it selfe doth temper the heat; and hauing by this meanes shewed, that the burning Zone is much subiect vnto raine, it appeares that there is matter in it,* 5.11 to temper the violence of the heat: To this I will adde an other reason, which de∣serues to be knowne, not onely for this matter, but for many others; for although the Sunne be very hot and burning vnder the Equinoctiall, yet is it not long, so as the heat of the day being there shorter and of lesse continuance; it causeth not so violent a heate; the which it be∣hooues to specifie more particularly. Such as are practised in the knowledge of the Spheare teach very well, that the more the Zodiake is oblique and trauersing our Hemisphere, the more vn∣equall are the dayes and nights; and contrariwise, where the Spheare is straight, and the signes mount directly, there the dayes and nights are equall. And therefore in all that Region which is betweene the two Tropicks, there is lesse inequalitie then without them, and the [ 40] more wee approch the Line the lesse inequalitie we finde, the which wee haue tried in those parts. Those of Quitto, for that they are vnder the Line, haue not throughout the whole yeere the dayes and nights more short at one season then at an other, but are continually e∣quall. Those of Lima being distant almost twelue degrees, finde some difference betwixt the dayes and the nights, but very little, for that in December and Ianuarie the dayes increase an houre or little lesse. Those of Potozi finde much more difference both in Winter and in Sum∣mer, being almost vnder the Tropicke. But those that liue without the Tropicks finde the dayes in Winter shorter and in Summer longer: the more remote they are from the Equinoctiall and come neere the Pole, as wee see in Germanie and in England, the dayes are longer in Sum∣mer [ 50] then in Italie and in Spaine. It is a thing which the Spheare doth teach, and experience doth plainly shew vs. Wee must adde an other Proposition, which is likewise true and very considerable for all the effects of Nature to vnderstand the perseuerance and continuation of the efficient cause to worke and mooue. This presupposed, if any one demand of me, why vnder the Equinoctiall Line the heat is not so violent in Summer, as in some other Regions (as in Ande∣lousia in the moneths of Iuly and August) I will answere,* 5.12 that in Andelousia the dayes are lon∣ger and the nights shorter; and as the day being hot, inflames and causeth heat; so the nights being cold and moist, giue a refreshing. According to the which, at Peru, there is no such great heat, for that the dayes in Summer are not long, nor the nights short; so as the heat of the day is much tempered by the freshnesse of the night.

Being a thing concluded, that the two fore-named properties are common and vniuersall to [ 60] all the Region of the burning Zone: and yet in the same there are found some places very hot, and other exceeding cold: Also, that the temperature is not there equall in all places, but vnder one climate, one part is hot, another cold, and the third temperate, all at one season; wee are

forced to seeke out other reasons, whence this great diuersitie should proceede in the burning Zone. Discoursing therefore vpon this question, I doe finde three apparant and certaine causes, and a fourth more obscure and darke. The apparant and certaine causes bee: The first, is the O∣cean: the second, the situation of the Land: and the third, the nature and propertie of many and sundrie windes. Besides these three which I hold for manifest, I beleeue there is a fourth hidden and lesse apparant, which is the propertie of the same Land inhabited, and the particular influence of the Heauens. Among the speciall causes and reasons, I haue first placed the Sea, for without doubt, the neernesse thereof doth helpe to temper and coole the heat: for although the Water be salt, yet is it alwayes water, whose nature is cold.

But if wee shall yet search more particularly, wee shall not finde in all this Land an equall [ 10] temperature of heate, although it bee in equall distance from the Sea, and in the same degree, seeing that in some part•• there is great heate, and in some very little. Doubtlesse, the cause thereof i••, that the one is lower, and the other higher▪ which causeth that the one is hot, and the other cold. It is most certaine, that the tops of the Mountaines are colder then in the bot∣tome of the Vallies, the which proceedes, not onely for that the Sunne beames haue greater repercussions vpon lower places, although it be a great reason; yet there is another, which is, that the Region of the ai••e is colder when it is farthest from the ground. The cause why the middle Region of the aire is more cold, hath beene shewed before: for that the Region of the aire next to the fierie exhalation, the which (according to Aristotle) is vpon the Spheare of the aire, repells and thrusts backe all the cold, the which retires it selfe into the middle Region [ 20] of the aire, by Antiparistasis, as the Philosophers speake. Now, if any one should question with me in this manner; If it be so that the aire is hot and moist, as Aristotle holds, and as we com∣monly say; whence then proceedes the cold which is congealed in the middle Region of the aire, seeing it cannot come from the fierie Spheare? For if it come from the Water, or the Earth,* 5.13 by this reason the lower Region of the aire should be colder then the middle.

To answere truly what I thinke, I will confesse, that this Argument and Obiection is so diffi∣cult, as I am almost readie to follow the opinion of such as reproue the qualities, agreements and disagreements which Ar••stotle giues vnto the Elements, ••aying▪ they are but imaginations, who for this occasion hold the aire to bee cold by nature. And to this end they vse many argu∣ments and reasons, whereof we will propound one very familiar and well knowne, leauing the [ 30] rest apart. In the Canicular dayes we are accustomed to beate the aire with a fan, and wee finde that it doth refresh vs; so as these Authors, affirme, that heate is no priuate propertie of any o∣ther Element, but of fire onely,* 5.14 which is dispersed and mingled with all things (as the great De∣nis doth teach vs.) But whether it be so, or otherwise (for I will not contradict Aristotle, but in that which is most certaine) in the end they agree all, that the middle Region of the aire is col∣der then the lowest next to the Earth, as experience doth shew vs; seeing that in this middle Region are congealed, Snow, Haile, Frosts, and other signes of extreme cold. The middle Region then which they call the burning Zone, hauing on the one side the Sea, and on the other the Mountaines, we must hold them for sufficient causes to temper and coole the heate.

The temperature of this Region ought chiefly to be attributed to the propertie of the winde [ 40] that blowes in that Country, the which is pleasant and fresh.* 5.15 The prouidence of the great God Creator of all things hath beene such, as he hath ordayned fresh and coole windes in that Region where the Sunne makes his course (which seemes should be burnt vp) that by their coolenesse the excessiue heate of the Sunne might be qualified. Wee see in one climate, some Regions and Cities hotter then others, onely for that they feele lesse winde to refresh them. The like is in other Countries where no winde blowes, the which are all on fire like vnto a furnace. If we shall neerly looke into the consideration of the winde, whereof we haue spoken; we may resolue ma∣ny doubts which some obiect, and which seeme strange and wonderfull: wherefore the Sunne casting his beames vpon the burning Zone, and particularly at Peru, and that more violently then in Spaine in the Canicular dayes, yet they defend the heat with a light couering, so as with [ 50] a slender couering of mats or straw, they are better preserued from the heate, then in Spaine vn∣der a roote of wood, or a vault of stone. Moreouer, why are not the nights in Summer at Peru as hot and troublesome as in Spaine? Wherefore on the highest tops of Mountaines, euen amongst the heapes of snowe, you shall sometimes feele great and insupportable heat? Wherefore in all the Prouince of Colao, when yee come into the shade, how little soeuer, you feele cold: But comming into the Sunne beames, you presently finde the heate excessiue? Euery morning the winde from the Sea doth cease, and the Sunne begins to cast his beames; and for this reason they feele the greatest heat in the morning, vntill the returne of the same windes, which otherwise they call the tyde or winde of the Sea, which makes them first to feele cold. Wee haue tried all this, whilest wee were at the Ilands of Barlouante, where in the mornings wee did sweat for [ 60] heat, and at noone we felt a fresh aire; for that then, a North Easterly winde which is fresh and coole, doth commonly blow.

Considering with my selfe, the pleasing temperature of many Countries at the Indies, where they know not what Winter is, which by his cold doth freeze them,* 5.16 nor Summer which doth

trouble them with heat, but that with a Mat they preserue themselues from the iniuries of all weather, and where they scarce haue any neede to change their garments throughout the yeere. I say, that often considering of this, I find that if men at this day would vanquish their passions, and free themselues from the snares of couetousnesse, leauing many fruitlesse and pernicious de∣signes, without doubt they might liue at the Indies very pleasant and happily: for that which o∣ther Poets sing of the Elisean fields & of the famous T••••p••, or that which Plato reports or feignes of his Atlantike Iland; men should finde in these Lands, if with a generous spirit they would choose rather to command their siluer and their desires, then to remayne to it slaues as they are.

* 5.17Hauing discoursed in the two former Bookes of that which concernes the Heauens, and the habitation of the Indies * 5.18 in generall, it behooues vs now to treat of the three elements, Aire, Water, and Land, and their compounds, which be metals, plants and beasts; for, as for the fire, [ 10] I see no speciall matter at the Indies which is not in other Regions; vnlesse some will say, that the manner to strike fire in rubbing two stones one against another, as some Indians vse, or to boile any thing in gourds, casting a burning stone into it, & other such like things, are remarkable, whereof I haue written what might bee spoken. But of those which are in the Vulcans * 5.19 and Mouthes of fire at the Indies, worthy doubtlesse to be obserued, I will speake in their order, trea∣ting of the diuersitie of grounds, whereas they finde these fires or Vulcans. Therefore to begin with the windes, I say, that with good reason, Salomon in the great iudgement which God had giuen him, esteemes much the knowledge of the windes; and their properties being very admi∣rable; for that some are moist, others drie; some vnwholsome, others sound; some hot, others cold; some calme and pleasant, others rough and tempestuous; some barren, and others fertile, [ 20] with infinite other differences. There are some windes which blow in certaine Regions, and are, as it were, Lords thereof, not admitting any entrie or communication of their contraries. In some parts they blow in that sort, as sometimes they are Conquerors, sometimes conquered; of∣ten there are diuers and contrarie windes, which doe runne together at one instant, diuiding the way betwixt them, somtimes one blowing aboue of one sort, and another below of an other sort; somtimes they incounter violently one with another, which puts them at Sea in great danger: there are some windes which helpe to the generation of Creatures, and others that hinder and are opposite. There is a certaine winde, of such a qualitie, as when it blowes in some Countrie, it causeth it to raine Fleas, and in so great abundance, as they trouble and darken the aire, and co∣uer [ 30] all the Sea-shoare: and in other places it raines Frogs. These diuersities and others which are sufficiently knowne, are commonly attributed to the place by the which these windes passe. For they say, that from these places they take their qualities to be cold, hot, drie, or moist, sickly or sound, and so of the rest, the which is partly true, and cannot be denyed; for that in a small di∣stance you shall see in one winde many diuersities. For example, the Sola•••••• or Easterne winde is commonly hot and troublesome in Spaine; and in Murria it is the coolest and healthfullest that is, for that it passeth by the Orchards, and that large champaine which wee see very fresh. In Carthage••e which is not farre from thence, the same winde is troublesome and vnwholsome. The Meridionall (which they of the Ocean call South, and those of the Mediterranean Sea, Mezo gior••o) commonly is raynie and boysterous, and in the same Citie whereof I speake, it is whole∣some [ 40] and pleasant. Plinie reports that in Africke it raines with a Northerne winde, and that the Southerne winde is cleere. He then that shall well consider what I haue spoken of these windes, he may conceiue, that in a small distance of Land or Sea, one winde hath many and diuers quali∣ties, yea sometimes quite contrarie; whereby wee may inferre, that hee draweth his propertie from the place where it passeth, the which is in such sort true (although we may not say infallibly) as it is the onely and principall cause of the diuersitie of the windes. It is a thing we easily find, that in a Riuer contayning fiftie leagues in circuit (I put it thus for an example) that the winde which blowes of the one part, is hot and moist; and that which blowes on the other, is cold and drie. Notwithstanding this diuersitie is not found in places by which it passeth, the which makes me rather to say, that the windes bring these qualities with them, whereby they giue vn∣to [ 50] them the names of these qualities. For example, we attribute to the Northerne winde, other∣wise called Cierco, the propertie to be cold and drie, and to dissolue mists; to the Southerne winde his contrarie, called Leuasche, we attribute the contrarie qualitie, which is moist and hot, and in∣genders mists. But it is needfull to seeke further, to know the true and originall cause of these so strange differences which we see in the windes. I cannot conceiue any other, but that the same efficient cause which bringeth forth and maketh the winds to grow, doth withall giue them this originall qualitie: for in truth, the matter whereon the winds are made, which is no other thing (according to Aristotle) but the exhalation of the interior Elements, may well cause in effect a great part of this diuersitie, being more grosse, more subtill, more drie, and more moist. But yet this is no pertinent reason, seeing that we see in one Region, where the vapours and exhalations are of one sort and qualitie, that there rise windes and effects quite contrarie. We must therefore [ 60]

referre the cause to the higher and celestiall Efficient, which must be the Sunne, and to the mo∣tion and influence of the Heauens, the which by their contrarie motions, giue and cause diuers in∣fluences. But the beginnings of these motions and influences are so obscure and hidden from men, and on the other part, so mightie and of so great force, as the holy Prophet Dauid in his propheticall Spirit, and the Prophet Ieremie admiring the greatnesse of the Lord, speake thus, Qui profert ventos de thesauris suis. Hee that drawes the windes out of his Treasures.* 5.20 In truth these principles and beginnings are rich and hidden treasures: for the Author of all things holds them in his hand, and in his power; and when it pleaseth him, sendeth them forth for the good or chastisement of men, and sends forth such windes as he pleaseth: not as that Eolus whom the Poets doe foolishly feigne to haue charge of the windes, keeping them in a Caue like vnto wilde [ 10] beasts. We see not the beginning of these windes, neither doe we know how long they shall con∣tinue, or whither they shall goe. But wee see and know well the diuerse effects and operations they haue, euen as the supreme Truth, the Author of all things hath taught vs, saying, Spiritus vbi vult spirat, & vocem eius audis, & neseis vnde venit, aut quò vadit.

It is true, that the Northerne winde is not vsually cold and cleere there as here. In some parts of Peru, as at Lima, and on the Playnes, they finde the Northerne windes troublesome and vn∣wholsome, and all along the Coast which runnes aboue fiue hundred leagues, they hold the Sou∣therne windes for healthfull and coole, and (which is more) most cleere and pleasant; yea it ne∣uer raines, contrarie to that wee see in Europe, and of this side the Line.* 5.21 Yet that which chan∣ceth [ 20] vpon the coast of Peru is no generall rule, but rather an exception, and a wonder of Nature, neuer to raine vpon that coast, and euer to haue one winde, without giuing place to his contra∣rie, whereof we will hereafter speake our minde. It is no generall rule there, that the Northerne winde is neither hot nor raynie there, as the South winde is on this side; but contrariwise, it raines when as the South winde blowes there, as wee see in all the Sierre or mountaine of Peru, in Chile, and in the Countrie of Congo, which is on the other side of the Line, and farre aduanced into the Sea. And in Potozi likewise, the winde which they call Tomahani (which is our North) if my memorie faile me not, is extremely cold, drie, and vnpleasant, as it is here with vs. Yet doth not the Northerne winde disperse the cloudes vsually there, as it doth here: but contrari∣wise, if I be not deceiued, it doth often cause raine. There is no doubt, but the windes doe bor∣row [ 30] this great diuersitie of contrarie effects, from the places by which they passe, and the neere Regions where they are bred, as wee see by daily experience in a thousand places. But speaking in generall of the qualitie of the windes, we must rather looke to the coasts or parts of the World from whence they proceede, then to obserue, whether they be on this side or beyond the Line, as it seemes the Philosopher held opinion. These capitall windes, which be the East and West, haue no such vniuersall qualities, nor so common in this Continent, nor in the other, as the two for∣mer. The Solanus or Easterne winde, is commonly here troublesome and vnwholsome, and the Westerne or Zephirus, is more milde and healthfull. At the Indies, and in all the burning Zone, the Easterne winde which they call Brise, is contrariwise very healthfull and pleasant. Of the West, I cannot speake any thing certaine or generall, for that it blowes not at all, or very seldom [ 40] in the burning Zone, for in all the nauigation betwixt the two Tropicks,* 5.22 the Easterne winde is ordinarie. And for that it is one of the admirable workes of Nature, it shall bee good to vnder∣stand the cause and the beginning thereof.

The wayes at Sea are not as at Land, to returne the same way they passe. It is all one way (saith the Philosopher) from Athens to Thebes, and from Thebes to Athens; but it is not so at Sea, for wee goe one way and returne by another. The first which discouered the East and West Indies, laboured much with great difficultie to finde out their course, vntill that Experience (the Mistresse of these secrets) had taught them, that to saile through the Ocean, is not like the pas∣sage in Italie, through the Mediterranean Sea, where in their returne, they obserue the same Ports and Capes they had sight of in their passage, attending still the benefit of the winde, which chan∣geth [ 50] instantly, and when that failes, they haue recourse to their Oares; and so the Gallies goe and come daily, coasting along the shoare. In some parts of the Ocean, they may not looke for any other winde then that which blowes, for that commonly it continues long. To conclude, that which is good to goe by, is not fit to returne with: for in the Sea beyond the Tropicke, and within the burning Zone, the Easterly windes raine continually, not suffering their contraries. In the which Region there are two strange things, the one is, that in that Zone (being the grea∣test of the fiue, into the which the World is diuided) the Easterly windes (which they call Bri∣ses) doe reigne, not suffering the Westerne or Southerne (which they call lower winds) to haue their course at any season of the yeere: The other wonder is, that these Easterly windes neuer cease to blow, and most commonly in places neerest to the Line (where it seemes that Calmes [ 60] should be more frequent, being a part of the World, most subiect to the heat of the Sunne, but it is contrarie, for you shall hardly finde any Calmes there, and the winde is cold and continues longer, which hath beene found true in all the Nauigations of the Indies. This is the reason, why the voyage they make from Spaine to the West Indies is shorter, more easie, and more assured, then the returne to Spaine.

The Fleetes parting from Siuil, haue more difficultie to passe the Canaries, for that the guife of Yegues or of Mares, is variable, being beaten with diuers windes, but hauing passed the Cana∣ries, they saile with a Westerne winde vntill they come to the burning Zone, where presently they finde an Easterly winde, and so they saile on with full windes, so as they haue scant any need to touch their sailes in the whole voyage: for this reason they called this great gulfe, the gulfe of Dames, for the calmnesse and pleasantnesse thereof. Then following their course, they come to the Ilands of Guadelupe Dominique, Desired, Marigualante, and the rest, which in that place, be as it were, the Suburbs of the Indies. There the Fleetes separate and diuide themselues, whereof some (which goe to new Spaine) take to the right hand towards Hispaniola; and ha∣uing discouered Cape Saint Anthony, they passe vnto Saint Iohn Delua, alwayes vsing the same [ 10] Easterly windes. Those for the mayne Land, take the left hand, discouering the high mountaine of Tayrone, then hauing touched at Carthagene, they passe vnto Nombre de Dios, from whence they goe by Land to Panama, and from thence, by the South Sea to Peru. But when the fleetes returne to Spaine, they make their voyage in this sort: The fleete of Peru discouers Cape Saint Anthony, then they enter into the Hauana, which is a goodly Port in the Iland of Cuba. The fleet of new Spaine doth likewise touch at the Hauana, being parted from Vera Cruz, or from the Iland of Saint Iohn Delua, the which is not without difficultie, for that commonly Easterly windes blow there, which is a contrarie winde to goe to the Hauana. These fleetes being ioyned together for Spaine, they seeke their height without the Tropicks, where presently they finde Westerly windes, which serue them vntill they come in view of the Acores, or Terceres, and [ 20] from thence to Siuil. So as their voyage in going, is of a small height, not aboue twentie degrees from the Line, which is within the Tropicks. But the returne is without the Tropicks, in eight and twentie or thirtie degrees of height at the least, for that within the Tropicks, the Easterne windes continually blow, the which are fittest to goe from Spaine to the West Indies, for that their course is from East to West; and without the Tropicks (which is in three and twentie de∣grees of height) they finde Westerly windes, the which are the more certaine and ordinarie, the farther you are from the Line, and more fit to returne from the Indies; for that they are windes blowing from the South and West, which serue to runne into the East and North.

The like discourse is of the Nauigation made into the South Sea, going from new Spaine or Peru, to the Philippines or China, and returning from the Philippines or China to new Spaine, the [ 30] which is easie, for that they saile alwayes from East to West, neere the Line, where they finde the Easterly windes to blow in their Poope. In the yeere 1584. there went a ship from Calloa in Lima to the Philippines,* 5.23 which sayled two thousand and seuen hundred leagues without sight of Land, and the first it discouered, was the Iland of Lusson, where they tooke Port, hauing perfor∣med their voyage in two moneths, without want of winde or any torment, and their course was almost continually vnder the Line; for that from Lima (which is twelue degrees to the South) he came to Manilla, which is as much to the North. The like good fortune had Aluaro de Man∣dana, when as he went to discouer the Ilands of Solomon, for that he had alwayes a full gale, vn∣till he came within view of these Ilands, the which must bee distant from that place of Peru, from whence hee parted, about a thousand leagues, hauing runne their course alwayes in one [ 40] height to the South. The returne is like vnto the voyage from the Indies vnto Spaine: for those which returne from the Philippines or China to Mexico, to the end they may recouer the western windes, they mount a great height, vntill they come right against the Ilands of Iapon, and disco∣uering the Caliphornes, they returne by the coast of new Spaine to the Port of Acapulco, from whence they parted. So as it is proued likewise by this Nauigation, that they saile easily from East to West, within the Tropicks, for that their Easterly windes doe raine: but returning from West to East, they must seeke the Westerne windes without the Tropicks, in the height of se∣uen and twentie degrees. The Portugals proue the like in their Nauigations to the East Indies, although it be in a contrarie course.

* 5.24Let vs now speake of that which toucheth the Question propounded, what should be the rea∣son [ 50] why vnder the burning Zone we saile easily from East to West, and not contrarie: wherein we must presuppose two certaine grounds. The one is, that the motion of the first Moouer, which they call Diurnall,* 5.25 not onely drawes and mooues with him the celestiall Spheares, which are inferiour vnto him, as wee see daily in the Sunne, the Moone, and the Starres; but also the Elements doe participate of this motion, insomuch as they are not hindered. The Earth is not mooued, by reason of her heauinesse, which makes it immoueable, being farre from this first motor. The Element of water mooues not likewise with this Diurnall motion, for that it is vnited to the Earth and make one spheare, so as the Earth keeps it from all circular motion. But the other two Elements of Fire and Aire, are more subtill and neerer the heauenly Regions, so as they participate of their motion, and are driuen about circularly, as the same celestiall bodies. As for the Fire, without doubt it hath his spheare (as Aristotle and other Philosophers haue held) [ 60] but for the Aire (which is no point of our subiect) it is most certaine that it mooues with a moti∣on Diurnall, which is from East to West, which wee see plainly in Comets that mooue from the East vnto the West, mounting, descending, and finally turning in the hemispheare in the

same sort as the Starres moue in the firmament; for otherwise these Comets being in the region and sphere of the ayre, whereas they ingender, appeares consum'd. It should be impossible for them to moue circularly, as they doe, if the element of the aire doth not moue with the same motion that the first motor doth. For these elements being of a burning substance, by reason they should be fixt, without mouing circularly, if the sphere where they are did not moue; if it be not as we faine, that some Angell or intellectuall Spirit doth walke with the Comet, guiding it cir∣cularly. [ 10] In the yeare 1577. appeared that wonderfull Comet (in forme like vnto a feather) from the horizon almost to the middest of heauen, and continued from the first of Nouember,* 5.26 vntill the eight of December: I say from the first of Nouember, for although in Spaine it was noated but the ninth of Nouember (according to the testimonie of Writers of that time) yet at Peru, where I was then, I remember well, we did see it, and obserue it eight dayes before, and all the time after. Touching the cause of this diuersitie, some may delate vpon it particularly: I will onely shew, that during those fortie dayes which it continued, wee all obserued (both such as were in Spaine, and we that liued then at the Indies) that it moued daily with an vniuersall mo∣tion, from East to West, as the Moone and other Planets, whereby it appeares that the sphere of the aire, being its Region, the element it selfe must of necessitie moue after the same sort. We noted also, that besides this vniuersall motion, it had another particular, by which it moued with the planets from West to East, for euery night it turned more Eastward, like vnto the Moone, Sunne, and Planets of Venus. We did also obserue a third particular motion, whereby it moued [ 20] from the Zodiacke towards the North; for after some nights it was found neerer vnto the Sep∣tentrionall signes. And it may be this was the reason why the great Comet was sooner seene by those that were Southerly, as at Peru, and later discouered by them of Europe: for by this third motion (as I haue said) it approached neerer the Northerne Regions. Yet euery one may well ob∣serue the differences of this motion, so as we may well perceiue, that many and sundry celestiall bodies, giue their impressions to the sphere of the ayre. In like sort it is most certaine, that the ayre moues with the circular motion of the heauen, from East to West, which is the first ground before mentioned. The second is no lesse certaine, which is, that the motion of the ayre in those [ 30] parts that are vnder the Line, or neere vnto it, is very swift and light, the more it approacheth to the Equinoctiall; but the farther off it is from the Line, approaching neere the Poles, the more slow and heauie this motion is. The reason hereof is manifest, for that the mouing of the celestiall bodies, being the efficient cause of the mouing of the ayre, it must of necessitie be more quicke and light, where the celestiall bodies haue their swiftest motion.

Alonso Sanches was of opinion that this motion of the ayre was not a winde, but the ayre moued by the Sunne. This is learnedly spoken, yet can wee not deny it to be a winde, seeing there are vapours and exhalations of the Sea; and that we sometimes see the Brise,* 5.27 or Easterly windes stronger, sometimes more weake, and placed in that sort, as sometimes they can hardly carry all their sayles. We must then know (and it is true) that the ayre moued, draweth vnto it the vapours it findes, for that the force is great, and findes no resistance, by reason whereof the Easterne and Westerne windes are continual, and in a manner alwayes alike, in those parts which [ 40] are neere the Line, and almost vnder all the burning Zone, which is the course the Sun followes betwixt the two circles of Cancer and Capricorne.

Who so would neerely looke into what hath bin spoken, may likewise vnderstand,* 5.28 that going from the West to the East, in altitude beyond the Tropikes, we shall finde Westerne windes, for that the motion of the Equinoctiall being so swift, it is a cause that the ayre moueth vnder it according to this motion, which is from the East to West, drawing after it the vapours and exhalations that rise of either side the Equinoctiall or burning Zone, in countring the course and motion of the Zone, are forced by the repercussion to returne almost to the contrary, whence grow the South-west windes so ordinary in those parts. Euen as we see in the course of waters, the which (if they be incountred by others of more force) returne in a manner backe: So it seemes to be like in vapours and exhalations, whereby it growes that the windes doe turne and sepa∣rate [ 50] themselues from one part to another. These Westerly windes doe commonly raine in a meane altitude, which is from twenty and seuen to thirty and seuen degrees, though they be not so certaine nor so regular as the Brises that are in a lesse altitude. The reason is, for that the South-west winds are no causes of this proper and equall motion of the heauen, as the Brises are, being neere to the Line. But (as I haue said) they are more ordinary, and often more furious and tempestuous. But passing into a greater altitude, as of fortie degrees, there is as small assurance of windes at Sea as at Land; for sometimes the East or North winde blowes,* 5.29 and sometimes the South, or West: whereby it happeneth their nauigations are more vncertaine, and more dangerous.

[ 60] That which we haue spoken of windes, which blow ordinarily within and without the Zone, must be vnderstood of the maine Sea, and in the great gulphes; for at land it is otherwise, where we finde all sorts of windes, by reason of the inequalitie which is betwixt the Mountaines and the vallies; the great number of Riuers and Lakes, and the diuers scituations of Countries, whence the grosse and thick vapours arise, which are moued from the one part or the other, ac∣cording

to the diuersitie of their beginnings, which cause these diuers windes the motion of the ayre, caused by the heauen, hauing not power enough to draw and moue them with it. And this varietie of windes is not onely found at land, but also vpon the Sea coast, which is vnder the burning Zone, for that there be forraine or land windes which come from the land, and ma∣ny which blow from the Sea; the which windes from the Sea, are commonly more wholesome and more pleasant then those of the land, which are contrariwise troublesome and vnwholesome, although it be the difference of the coast that causeth this diuersitie: commonly the land windes blow from mid-night to the Sunne rising, and the Sea windes vntill Sunne setting. The reason perhaps may be,* 5.30 that the earth, as a grosse substance, fumes more when as the Sunne shines not vpon it, euen as greene wood, or scarse dry, smoakes most when the flame is quenched. But [ 10] the Sea, which is compounded of more subtile parts, engenders no fumes, but when it is hot, euen as straw or ha••e, being moist and in small quantitie, breedes smoake when it is burnt, and when the flame failes, the fume suddenly ceaseth. Whatsoeuer it be, it is certaine that the Land winde blowes by night, and that of the Sea by day. So that euen as there are often contrary, vio∣lent, and tempestuous windes vpon the Sea coast, so doe we see very great calmes. Some men of great experience report,* 5.31 that hauing sailed many great passages at Sea vnder the Line, yet did they neuer see any calmes, but that they alwayes make way little or much, the ayre being moued by the celestiall motion, which is sufficient to guide a Shippe, blowing in poope, as it doth. I haue already said, that a Shippe of Lima going to Manilla, sailed two thousand seuen hundred leagues, alwayes vnder the Line, or not aboue twelue degrees from it, and that in the moneths of February and March, when as the Sunne is there for Zenith, and in all this space they [ 20] found no calmes, but alwayes a fresh gale, so as in two moneths they performed this great voy∣age. But in the burning Zone and without it, you shall vsually see great calmes vpon the coasts, where the vapours come from the Ilands, or maine land. And therefore stormes and tempests, and the sudden motions of the ayre, are more certaine and ordinary vpon the coasts, whereas the vapours come from the Land, then in full Sea, I meane vnder the burning Zone, for with∣out it and at Sea, there are both calmes and whirlewindes. Notwithstanding, sometimes be∣twixt the two Tropickes, yea, vnder the Line, you shall haue great raine and sudden showers, yea farre into the Sea; for the working whereof, the vapours and exhalations of the Sea, are sufficient, which mouing sometimes hastily in the ayre, cause thunder and whirlewindes, but [ 30] this is more ordinary neere to the Land and vpon the Land. When I sailed from Peru to new Spaine, I obserued, that all the time we were vpon the coast of Peru, our voyage was (as it was ordinary) very calme and easie, by reason of the Southerne winde that blowes, hauing alwayes a fore winde, returning from Spaine and new Spaine. As we passed the gulph, lanching farther into the Sea, almost vnder the Line, wee found the season coole, quiet, and pleasant, with a full winde, but comming neere to Nicaragua, and to all that coast, wee had contrary windes, with great store of raine and fogges. All this Nauigation was vnder the burning Zone: for from twelue degrees to the South, which is Lima, we sailed to the seuenteenth, which is Gau∣t••lco, a port of new Spaine: and I beleeue, that such as haue obserued their nauigations, made vnder the burning Zone, shall finde what I haue said, which may suffice for the windes which raigne [ 40] at Sea, vnder the burning Zone.

* 5.32It were a very difficult matter, to report particularly the admirable effects which some windes cause in diuers regions of the world, and to giue a reason thereof. There are windes, which na∣turally trouble the water of the Sea, and makes it greene and blacke, others cleere as Christall, some comfort and make glad, others trouble and breede heauinesse. Such as nourish Silke-wormes, haue great care to shut their windowes, when as the South-west windes doe blow, and to open them to the contrary: hauing found by certaine experience, that their wormes diminish and dye with the one, and fatten and become better with the other: and who so will neerely ob∣serue it, shall finde in himselfe, that the diuersities of windes, cause notable impressions and changes in the body, principally in sicke parts and ill disposed, when they are most tender and [ 50] weake. The holy Scripture calleth one a burning winde, another, a winde full of dewe and sweetnesse. And it is no wonder if we see such notable effects of the winde, in Plants, Beasts, and Men, seeing that we see it visibly in Iron, which is the hardest of all mettals. I haue seene Grates of Iron in some parts of the Indies, so rusted and consumed, that pressing it betwixt your fingers, it dissolued into powder, as if it had beene hay or parched straw, the which pro∣ceedes onely from the winde which doth corrupt it, hauing no meanes to withstand it. But leauing apart many other great and notable effects, I will onely make mention of two. The one, although it causeth pangs greater then death it selfe, yet doth it not breede any further incon∣uenience. The other takes away life without feeling of it. The sicknesse of the Sea, wherewith such are troubled as first begin to goe to Sea,* 5.33 is a matter very ordinary; and yet if the nature [ 60] thereof were vnknowne to men, we should take it for the pangs of death, seeing how it afflicts and torments while it doth last, by the casting of the stomacke, paine of the head, and other troublesome accidents.* 5.34 But in truth this sicknesse so common and ordinary happens vnto men by the change of the ayre and Sea. For although it be true that the motion of the Ship helpes much,

in that it moues more or lesse: and likewise the infections and ill sauours of things in the Ship: yet the proper and naturall cause, is the ayre and the vapours of the Sea, the which doth so weaken and trouble the body and the stomacke, which are not accustomed thereunto, that they are won∣derfully moued and changed: for the ayre is the Element, by which we liue and breath, draw∣ing it into our entrailes, the which we ••athe therewithall. And therefore there is nothing that so suddenly, and with so great force doth alter vs, as the change of the ayre we breathe, as we see in those which dye of the plague. It is approued by many experiences, that the ayre of the Sea, is the chiefe cause of this strange indisposition; the one is, that when there blowes from the Sea a strong breath, we see them at the Land as it were Sea-••••cke, as I my selfe haue often [ 10] found. Another is, the farther wee goe into the Sea, and retyre from Land, the more wee are touched and dazeled with this sicknesse. Another is, that coasting along any Iland, and after lanching into the maine, we shall there finde the ayre more strong. Yet will I not deny, but the motion and agitation may cause this sicknesse, seeing that we see some are taken therewith passing Riuers in Barkes: others in like sort going in Coaches and Caroaches, according to the diuers complexions of the Stomacke: as contrariwise, there are some how boisterous and troublesome soeuer the Sea be, doe neuer feele it. Wherefore it is a matter certaine, and tried, that the ayre of the Sea, doth commonly cause this effect in such as newly goe to Sea. I thought good to speake this, to shew a strange effect, which happens in some parts of the Indies, where the ayre and the winde that raigns makes men dazle, not lesse, but more then at Sea. Some hold it for a fable, o∣thers [ 20] say it is an addition: for my part I will speake what I haue tried.

There is in Peru, a high mountaine which they call Pa••••acaca,* 5.35 and hauing heard speake of the alteration it bred, I went as well prepared as I could, according to the instructions which was giuen me, by such as they call Vaguian••s, or expert men: but notwithstanding all my prouisi∣on, when I came to mount the degrees, as they called them, which is the top of this mountaine, I was suddenly surprized with so mortall and so strange a pang, that I was ready to fall from the top to the ground: and although we were many in company, yet euery one made haste (without any tarrying for his companion,) to free himselfe speedily from this ill passage. Being then alone with one Indian, whom I intreated to helpe to stay me, I was surprized with such pangs of strai∣ning and casting, as I thought to cast vp my heart too▪ for hauing cast vp meate, flegme, and col∣ler, [ 30] both yellow and greene; in the end I cast vp blood, with the straining of my stomacke. To conclude, if this had continued, I should vndoubtedly haue dyed; but this lasted not aboue three or foure houres, that wee were come into a more conuenient and naturall temperature, where all our companions (being foureteene or fifteene) were much wearied. Some in the passage demanded confession, thinking verily to dye: others left the Ladders and went to the ground, being ouercome with casting, and going to the stoole: and it was told me, that some haue lost their liues there with this accident. I beheld one that did beate himselfe against the earth, cry∣ing out for the rage and griefe which this passage of Pariacaca had caused. But commonly it doth no important harme, onely this, paine and troublesome distaste while it endures: and not onely the passage of Pariacaca hath this propertie, but also all this ridge of the Mountaine, which [ 40] runnes aboue fiue hundred leagues long, and in what place soeuer you passe, you shall finde strange intemper••••ures, yet more in some parts then in other, and rather to those which mount from the Sea, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Plaines. Besides Pariacaca, I haue passed it by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Soras: in ano∣ther place, by Colleg••••••, and by 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Finally, by foure different places, going and com∣ming, and alwayes in this passage I haue felt this alteration, although in no place so strongly, as at the first in Pariacaca, which hath beene tried by all such as haue passed it. And no doubt but the winde is the cause of this intemperature and strange alteration, or the ayre that raignes there. For the best remedy (and all they finde) is to stoppe their noses, their eares, and their mouthes, as much as may be, and to couer themselues with cloathes, especially the stomacke, for that the ayre is subtile and piercing, going into the entrailes, and not onely men feele this alteration, but [ 50] also beasts that sometimes stay there, so as there is no spurre can make them goe forward. For my part I hold this place to be one of the highest parts of land in the world;* 5.36 for we mount a wonder∣full space. And in my opinion, the Mountaine Ne••ade of Spaine, the Pirences, and the Alp••s of Italie, are as ordinary houses, in regard of hi•• Towers. I therefore perswade my selfe,* 5.37 that the element of the ayre is there so subtile and delicate, as it is not proportionable with the brea∣thing of man, which requires a more grosse and temperate ayre, and I beleeue it is the cause that doth so much alter the stomacke, and trouble all the disposition. The passages of the moun∣taines Ne••ade, and other of Europe, which I haue seene, although the ayre be cold there, and doth force men to weare more cloathes, yet this colde doth not take away the appetite from meate, but contrariwise it prouokes; neither doth it cause any casting of the stomacke, but one∣ly [ 60] some paine in the feete and hands. Finally, their operation is outward. But that of the In∣dies, whereof I speake (without molesting of foote or hand, or any outward part) troubles all the entrailes within: and that which is more admirable, when the Sunne is hot, which maketh me imagine, that the griefe wee feele comes from the qualitie of the ayre which wee breathe: Therefore that is most subtile and delicate, whose cold is not so sensible, as piercing. All this

ridge of mountaines is, for the most part, desart, without any Villages or habitations for men, so as you shall scarce finde any small Cottages to lodge such as doe passe by night: there are no Beasts,* 5.38 good or bad, but some Vicunos, which are their Countrie Muttons, and haue a strange and wonderfull property, as I shall shew in his place. The Grasse is often burnt, and all blacke with the ayre,* 5.39 and this Desart runs fiue and twenty or thirty leagues ouerthwart, and in length aboue fiue hundred leagues.

There are other Desarts or places inhabited, which at Peru they call Punas (speaking of the second point we promised) where the qualitie of the ayre cutteth off mans life without fee∣ling.* 5.40 In former time the Spaniards went from Peru, to the Realme of Chille by this Mountaine, but at this day they doe passe commonly by Sea, and sometimes alongst the side of it. And though that way be laborious and troublesome, yet is there not so great danger as by the Mountaine, [ 10] where there are Plaines, on the which many men haue perished and dyed, and sometimes haue scaped by great hap, whereof some haue remained lame. There runs a small breath, which is not very strong nor violent, but proceeds in such sort, that men fall downe dead, in a manner with∣out feeling, or at the least, they loose their feete and hands: the which may seeme fabulous, yet is it most true.* 5.41 I haue knowne and frequented long the Generall Ierome Costilla, the auncient peopler of Cusco, who had lost three or foure toes, which fell off in passing the Desart of Chille, being perished with this ayre, and when he came to looke on them, they were dead, and fell off without any paine, euen as a rotten Apple falleth from the tree. This Captaine reported, that of a good armie which he had conducted by that place, in the former yeares, since the discoue∣ry of this Kingdome by Almagro, a great part of the men remained dead there, whose bodies [ 20] he found lying in the Desart, without any stinke or corruption; adding thereunto one thing ve∣ry strange, that they found a yong Boye aliue, and being examined how hee had liued in that place, hee said, that he lay hidden in a little Caue, whence hee came to cut the flesh of a dead Horse with a little Knife, and thus had he nourished himselfe a long time, with I know not how many companions that liued in that sort, but now they were all dead, one dying this day, & ano∣ther to morrow, saying that he desired nothing more then to dye there with the rest, seeing that hee found not in himselfe any disposition▪ to goe to any other place, nor to take any taste in any thing▪ I haue vnderstood the like of others, and particularly of one that was of our company, who being then a secular man,* 5.42 had passed by these Desarts: and it is a strange thing, the quality of this cold ayre, which kils, and also preserues the dead bodies without corruption. I haue also [ 30] vnderstood it of a reuerend religious man, of the Order of Saint Dominicke, and Prelate thereof, who had seene it passing by the Desarts: and which is strange, ••e reported, that trauelling that way by night, was forced to defend himselfe against that deadly winde which blowes there (hauing no other meanes) but to gather together a great number of those dead bodies that lay there, and made thereof, as it were a rampire and a bolster for his head: in this manner did hee sleepe, the dead bodies giuing him life. Without doubt this is a kinde of colde so piercing, that it quencheth the vitall heate,* 5.43 cutting off his influence; and being so exceeding col••e, yet doth not corrupt nor giue any putrifaction to the dead bodies, for that putrifaction groweth from heate and moistnesse. As for the other kinde of ayre which thunders vnder the earth, and cau∣seth earthquakes, more at the Indies, then in any other Regions, I will speake thereof in treating [ 40] the qualities of the Land at the Indies. We will content our selues now with what we haue spo∣ken of the winde and ayre, and passe to that which is to be spoken of the water.

§. II. Of the Ocean that inuirons the Indies, and of the North and South Seas, their ebbing, flowing, Fishes, fishing, Lakes, Riuers, and Springs.

[ 50]

AMong all waters the Ocean is the principall, by which the Indies haue beene discoue∣red, and are inuironed therewith; for either they be Ilands of the Ocean Sea, or maine Land, the which wheresoeuer it ends, is bounded with this Ocean. To this day they haue not discouered at the Indies any Mediterranean Sea,* 5.44 as in Europe, Asia, and Affrica, into the which there enters some arme of this great Sea, and makes distinct Seas, taking their names from the Prouinces they wash: and almost all the Mediterranean Seas continue and ioyne together, and with the Ocean it selfe, by the straight of Gibraltar, which the Ancients called, the Pillers of Hercules, although the Red Sea being separated from the Mediterranean Seas, en∣ters alone into the Indian Ocean; and the Caspian Sea ioynes not with any other: so that at the Indies we finde not any other Sea then this Ocean, which they diuide into two, the one [ 60] they call the North Sea, and the other the South; for that the Indies which were first discouered by the Ocean, and reacheth vnto Spaine, lies all to the North, and by that Land thereafter dis∣couered a Sea on the other side, the which they called the South Sea, for that they decline vn∣till they haue passed the Line: and hauing lost the North, or Pole-articke, they called it South.

For this cause they haue called all that Ocean the South Sea, which lyeth on the other side of the East Indies, although a great part of it be ••eated to the North, as all the coast of new Spaine, Nuaragna, Guatimala and Panama. They say▪ that he that first discouered this Sea, was called Blascowunes of Bilbo, the which he did by that part which we now call Maine Land,* 5.45 where it growes narrow, and the two Seas approach so neere the one to the other, that there is but se∣uen leagues of distance:* 5.46 for although they make the way eighteene from Nombre de Dios to Pa∣nama, yet is it with turning to seeke the commoditie of the way, but drawing a direct line, the one Sea shall not be found more distant from the other. Some haue discoursed and propounded to cut through this passage of seuen leagues, and to ioyne one Sea to the other, to make the pas∣sage [ 10] from Peru more commodious and easie, for that these eighteene leagues of Land betwixt Nombre de Dios and Panama, is more painefull and chargeable then 2300. by Sea, whereupon some would say, it were a meanes to drowne the Land, one Sea being lower then another. As in times past we finde it written, that for the same consideration,* 5.47 they gaue ouer the enterprize to winne the red Sea into Nile, in the time of King Sesostris, and since, in the Empire of the O∣thomans. But for my part, I hold such discourses and propositions for vaine,* 5.48 although this incon∣uenience should not happen, the which I will not hold for assured. I beleeue there is no humaine powerable to beate and breake downe those strong and impenetrable Mountaines, which God hath placed betwixt the two Seas, and hath made them most hard Rockes, to withstand the furie of two Seas. And although it were possible to men, yet in my opinion they should feare [ 20] punishment from heauen, in seeking to correct the workes, which the Creator by his great pro∣uidence hath ordained and disposed in the framing of this vniuersall world.

Leauing this discourse of opening the Land, and ioyning both Seas together, there is yet another lesse rash, but very difficult and dangerous to search out. Whether these two great gulfes doe ioyne in any other part of the world, which was the enterprize of Fernando Magellan a Portugall Gentleman, whose great courage and constancie in the research of this subiect, and happy successe in the finding thereof, gaue the name of eternall memory to this straight, which iustly they call by the name of the discouerer Magellan, of which straight we will intreate a little, as of one of the greatest wonders of the world. Some haue beleeued, that this Straight which Magellan had discouered in the South Sea, was none, or that it was straightned, as Don [ 30] Alonso d'Arsile writes in his Auracane: and at this day there are some that say, there is no such Straight, but that they are Ilands betwixt the Sea and Land,* 5.49 for that the maine Land ends there, at the end whereof are all Ilands, beyond the which the one Sea ioynes fully with the other, or to speake better, it is all one Sea. But in truth it is most certaine, there is a straight and a long and stretched out Land on either side, although it hath not yet beene knowne how farre it stretcheth of the one side of the straight towards the South. After Magellan, a Shippe of the Bishop of Plaisance passed the straight, Don Guitieres Caruaial (whose Maste they say is yet at Lima, at the entrie of the Pallace) they went afterwards coasting along the South, to disco∣uer the Straight, by the commandement of Don Garcia of Mendoca, then Gouernor of Chille, according to that which Captaine Ladrillero found it and passed it. I haue read the discourse and [ 40] report he made, where he saieth, that he did not hazard himselfe to land in the Straight, but hauing discouered the North Sea, he returned backe, for the roughnesse of the time, winter be∣ing now come, which caused the waues comming from the North, to grow great and swelling, and the Sea continually foming with rage. In our time, Francis Drake and Englishman,* 5.50 passed this Straight. After him, Captaine Sarmiento passed it on the South side. And lastly, in the yeere 1587. other Englishmen passed it, by the instruction of Drake, which at this time run along all the coast of Peru.

Euen as Magellan found out this Straight vpon the South, so some haue pretended to disco∣uer another Straight, which they say is in the North, and suppose it to be in Florida, whose coast runnes in such sort, as they know no end thereof. Peter Melendez, the Adelantade, a man very expert at Sea, affirmeth for certaine, that there is a Straight, and that the King had comman∣ded [ 50] him to discouer it, where in he shewed a great desire:* 5.51 he propounded his reasons to proue his opinion, saying, that they haue seene some remainders of Ships in the North Sea, like vnto those the which the Chinois vse, which had beene impossible, if there were no passage from one Sea vnto another. Moreouer, hee reported, that in a certaine great Bay in Florida (the which runs 300. leagues within the Land) they see Whales in some season of the yeare, which come from the other Sea.

One of the most admirable secrets of Nature is the ebbing and flowing of the Sea, not onely for this strange property of rising and falling, but much more for the difference there is thereof in diuers Seas, yea in diuers coasts of one and the same Sea. There are some Seas that haue no daily [ 60] flowing nor ebbing, as we see in the inner Mediterranean, which is the Thyrene Sea, and yet it flowes and ebbes euery day in the vpper Mediterranean Sea, which is that of Venice, and iustly giueth cause of admiration, that these two Seas being Mediterranean, and that of Venice being no greater then the other, yet hath it his ebbing and flowing as the Ocean, and that other Sea of Italie none at all. There are some Mediterranean Seas, that apparantly rise and fall euery

moneth, and others that neither rise in the day, nor in the moneth. There are other Seas, as the Spanish Ocean, that haue their flux and reflux euery day; and besides that, they haue it mo∣nethly, which commeth twice, that is to say, at the change, and at the full of euery Moone, which they call Spring-tides. To say that any Sea hath this daily ebbing and flowing, and not monethly, I know not any. It is strange, the difference we finde of this subiect at the Indies, for there are some places whereas the Sea doth daily rise and fall two leagues, as at Panama, and at a high water it riseth much more. There are other places where it doth rise and fall so little, that hardly can you finde the difference. It is ordinary in the Ocean Sea to haue a daily flowing and ebbing, and that was twice in a naturall day, and euer it fals three quarters of an houre sooner one day then another, according to the course of the Moone: so as the tide fals not [ 10] alwaies in one houre of the day. Some would say, that this flux and reflux proceeded from the locall motion of the water of the Sea; so as the water that riseth on the one side, fals on the other that is opposite vnto it: so that it is full Sea on the one side when it is a low water on the opposite, as we see in a Kettle full of water, when we mooue it, when it leanes to the one side the water increaseth, and on the other it diminisheth. Others affirme, that the Sea riseth in all parts at one time, and decreaseth at one instant: as the boyling of a Pot, comming out of the centre it extendeth it selfe on all parts, and when it ceaseth, it fals likewise on all parts.

This second opinion is true, and in my iudgement, certaine and tried, not so much for the reasons which the Philosophers giue in their Meteors, as for the certaint experience wee may make. For to satisfie my selfe vpon this point and question, I demanded particularly of the [ 20] said * 5.52 Pilot, how he found the tides in the straight, and if the tides of the South Sea did fall when as those of the North did rise. And contrariwise (this question being true) why the in∣crease of the Sea in one place, is the decrease thereof in another, as the first opinion holdeth. He answered that it was not so, but they might see plainely, that the tides of the North and South Seas rise at one instant, so as the waues of one Sea incountred with the other, and at one instant likewise they began to retire, euery one into his Sea, saying, that the rising and falling was daily seene, and that the incounter of the tides (as I haue said) was at threescore and tenne leagues to the North Sea,* 5.53 and thirtie to the South. Whereby we may plainely gather, that the ebbing and flowing of the Ocean is no pure locall motion, but rather an alteration: whereby all [ 30] waters really rise and increase at one instant, and in others, they diminish, as the boyling of a Pot, whereof I haue spoken. It were impossible to comprehend this point by experience, if it were not in the Straight, where all the Ocean, both on th'one side, and on th'other ioynes together: for none but Angels can see it, and iudge of the opposite parts: for that man hath not so long a sight, nor so nimble and swift footing as were needefull, to transport his eyes from one part to another, in so short a time, as a tide will giue him respite, which are onely six houres.

There are in the Indian Ocean, an infinite number of fishes, the kindes and properties where∣of the Creator onely can declare.* 5.54 There are many such as we haue in the Sea of Europe, as Shads, and Aloses which come from the Sea into the Riuers; Dorads, Pilchards, and many other. There [ 40] are others, the like I doe not thinke to haue seene in these parts, as those which they doe call Cabrillas, which doe somewhat resemble the Trowt, and in new Spaine they call them Bobos, they mount from the Sea into the Riuers. I haue not seene any Besugues there, nor Trowts, al∣though some say there are in Chille. There are Tonins in some parts vpon the coast of Peru, but they are rare, and some are of opinion, that at a certaine time they doe cast their spawne in the Straight of Magellan, as they doe in Spaine at the Straight of Gibraltar, and for this reason they finde more vpon the coast of Chille, although those I haue seene there, are not like to them in Spaine.* 5.55 At the Ilands (which they call Barlouente) which are Cuba, Saint Dominicke, Port¦rique, and Iamaique, they finde a fish which they call Manati, a strange kinde of fish, if we may call it fish, a creature which ingenders her yong ones aliue, and hath teates, and doth nourish [ 50] them with milke, feeding of grasse in the fields, but in effect it liues continually in the water, and therefore they eate it as fish; yet when I did eate of it at Saint Dominique on a friday, I had some scruple, not for that which is spoken, but for that in colour and taste it was like vnto morsels of Veale, so is it greene, and like vnto a Cowe on the hinder parts. I did wonder at the incredible rauening of the Tiburons, or sharkes, when as I did see drawne from one (that was taken in the Port) out of his gullet, a Butchers great Knife, a great Iron hooke, and a piece of a Cowes head with one whole horne, neither doe I know if both were there, or no. I did see in a creeke made with that Sea, a quarter of a horse for pleasure hanging vpon a stake, whither presently came a company of these Tiburons, at the smell thereof: and for the more plea∣sure, this Horse-flesh was hung in the ayre, I know not how many hand breadth from the wa∣ter; [ 60] this company of fish flocke about it, leaping vp, and with a strange nimblenesse cut off both flesh and bone off the Horse legge, as if it had beene the stalke of a lettuce; their teeth being as sharpe as a rasour. There are certaine small fishes they call Rambos, which cleaue to these Tibu∣rons, neither can they driue them away, and they are fed with that which falles from the

Tiburons. There are other small fishes, which they call flying fishes, the which are found within the tropickes, and in no other place, as I thinke: they are pursued by the Ducades;* 5.56 and to escape them they leape out of the Sea, and goe a good way in the ayre, and for this reason they are called flying Fishes: they haue wings as it were of linnen cloath, or of parchment, which doe support them some space in the ayre. There did one flye or leape into the Ship wherein I went, the which I did see, and obserue the fashion of his wings.

In the Indian Histories there is often mention made of Lezards or Caymans (as they call them) and they are the very same which Plinie and the Auncients call Crocodiles, they finde them on the Sea side, and in hot Riuers, for in cold Riuers there are none to be found. And therefore they [ 10] finde none vpon all the coasts of Peru vnto Payra, but forward they are commonly seene in the Riuers. It is a most fierce and cruell beast, although it be slow and heauie. Hee goes hunting and seekes his prey on the Land, and what he takes aliue, he drownes it in the water, yet doth he not eate it, but out of the water, * 5.57 for that his throate is of such a fashion, as if there entred any wa∣ter, he should easily be drowned. It is a wonderfull thing to see a combat betwixt a Caymant and a Tigre, whereof there are most cruell at the Indies. A religious man of our company told me that he had seene these beasts fight most cruelly one against the other; vpon the Sea shoare the Caymant with his taile gaue great blowes vnto the Tygre, striuing with his great force to carry him into the water: and the Tigre with his pawes resisted the Caymant, drawing him to Land. In the end the Tigre vanquished, and opened the Lezard, it seemes by the belly, the which is most [ 20] tender and penetrable, for in euery other part he is so hard, that no Lance, and scarce a harquebuze can pierce it. The victory which an Indian had of a Caymant was yet more rare: the Caymant had carried away his yong childe, and sodainely plunged into the Sea, the Indian moued with choller, cast himselfe after him, with a knife in his hand, and as they are excellent swimmers and diuers, and the Caymant swimmeth alwayes on the toppe of the water, hee hurt him in the belly, and in such sort, that the Caymant feeling himselfe wounded, went to the shoare,* 5.58 lea∣uing the little infant dead.

But the combat which the Indians haue with Whales is yet more admirable, wherein appeares the power and greatnesse of the Creator, to giue so base a Nation (as be the Indians) the industrie and courage to incounter the most fierce and deformed beast in the world, and not onely to fight [ 30] with him, but also to vanquish him, and not to triumph ouer him. Considering this, I haue often remembred that place of the Psalmes, speaking of the Whale, Draco iste quem formasti ad illuden∣dum eum: What greater mockerie can there be, then to see an Indian leade a Whale as bigge as a Mountaine, vanquished with a cord?* 5.59 The manner the Indians of Florida vse (as some expert men haue told me) to take these Whales (whereof there is great store) is, they put themselues into a Canoe, which is like a barke of a tree, and in swimming approach neere the Whales side, then with great dexteritie they leape to his necke, and there they ride as on horse-back expecting his time, then he thrusts a sharpe and strong stake (which he carries with him) into the Whales no∣strill, for so they call the hole or vent by which they breathe, presently he beates it in with an∣other stake as forcibly as he can; in the meane space the Whale doth furiously beate the Sea, and [ 40] raiseth Mountaines of water, running into the deepe with great violence, and presently riseth againe, not knowing what to doe for paine: the Indian still sits firme, and to giue him full pai∣ment for this trouble, hee beates another stake into the other vent or nosthrill, so as he stoppeth him quite, and takes away his breathing, then he betakes him to his Canoe, which he holds tied with a cord to the Whales side, and goes to Land, hauing first tied his cord to the Whale, the which he lets run with the Whale, who leapes from place to place, whilest he finds water enough: being troubled with paine, in the end he comes neere the Land, and remaines on ground by the hugenesse of his body, vnable any more to moue; then a great number of Indians come vnto the Conquerour, to gather his spoiles, they kill him, and cut his flesh in peeces, the which is bad enough: this doe they dry and beate into powder, vsing it for meate, it doth last them long: wherein is fulfilled, that which is spoken in another Psalme of the Whale, Dedisti eum escam po∣pulis [ 50] Aethiopum. Peter Mendez the Adelantade did often speake of this kinde of fishing. Where∣of Monardes makes mention in his Booke.

There is another fishing which the Indians doe commonly vse in the Sea, the which, although it be lesse, yet is it worthy the report. They make as it were faggots of bul-rushes or dry sedges well bound together, which they call Balsas: hauing carried them vpon their shoulders to the Sea, they cast them in, and presently leape vpon them: being so set, they lanch out into the deepe, rowing vp and downe with small reedes of either side: they goe a league or two into the Sea to fish, carrying with them their cords and nets vpon these faggots, and beare themselues thereon. They cast out their nets, and doe there remaine fishing the greatest part of the day [ 60] and night, vntill they haue filled vp their measure, with the which they returne well satisfied. Truely it was delightfull to see them fish at Callao of Lima, for that they were many in number, and euery one set on horse-backe, cutting the waues of the Sea, which in their place of fishing are great and furious, resembling the Tritons or Neptunes, which they paint vpon the water, and being come to Land, they draw their barke out of the water vpon their backes, the which they

presently vndoe, and lay abroad on the shoare to drie. There were other Indians of the Vallies of Yca, which were accustomed to goe to fish in leather, or skins of Sea-wolues, blowne vp with winde, and from time to time they did blow them like bals of winde, lest they should sinke. In the va••e of Canete, which in old time they called Guaroo, there were a great number of Indian fishers; but because they resisted the Ingua, when he came to conquer that Land, hee made shew of peace with them, and therefore to feast him, they appointed a solemne fishing of many thou∣sand Indians, which went to Sea in their vessels of reeds: at whose returne, the Ingua (who had laid many Souldiers in ambush) made a cruell butcherie of them, so as afterward this Land remai∣ned vnpeopled, although it be aboundant and fertile. I did see another manner of fishing, where∣unto Don Francis of Toledo the Viceroy did leade me, yet was it not in the Sea, but in a Riuer [ 10] which they call great in the Prouince of Charcas, where the Indians Chiraquanas plunged into the water, and swimming with an admirable swiftnesse, followed the fish, where with darts and hookes (which they vse to carry in their right hand, onely swimming with the left) they wound the fish, and so hurt they brought them forth, seeming in this more like vnto fishes then men of the Land. But now that we haue left the Sea, let vs come to other kinde of waters that remaine to be spoken of.

* 5.60In place of the Mediterranean Sea, which is in the old world, the Creator hath furnished this new with many Lakes, whereof there are some so great, as they may be properly called Seas, see∣ing the Scripture calleth that of Palestina so, which is not so great as some of these. The most fa∣mous is that of Titicaca, which is at Peru, in the Prouince of Callao, the which as I haue said in the former booke, containes neere fourescore leagues in compasse, into the which there runs ten [ 20] or twelue great Riuers. A while since, they began to saile in it with Barkes and Ships, wherein they proceeded so ill, that the first Ship was split with a tempest that did rise in the Lake. The water is not altogether sower nor salt, as that of the Sea, but it is so thicke, as it cannot be drunke.* 5.61 There are two kindes of fishes breede in this Lake in great abundance, the one they call Suches, which is great and sauorous, but phlegmaticke and vnwholesome: and the other Bogos, which is more healthfull, although it be l••sse and fuller of bones: there are great numbers of wilde-ducks and Wigens. When as the Indians will feast it, or shew delight to any one that pas∣seth along the two bankes,* 5.62 which they call Chuouyto and Omasugo, they assemble a great num∣ber of Canoes, making a circle and inuironing the fowle, vntill they take with their hands what [ 30] they please: and they call this manner of fishing Chaco. On the one and the other banke of this Lake, are the best habitations of Peru. From the issue thereof there growes a lesser Lake, al∣though it be great, which they call Paria, vpon the bankes whereof, there are great numbers of cattell, especially Swine, which grow exceeding fat with the grasse vpon those bankes. There are many other Lakes in the high Mountaines, whence proceede Brookes and Riuers, which after become great flouds. Vpon the way from Arequippa to Callao, there are two Lakes, vpon the Mountaines of the one and other side the way, from the one flowes a brooke, which growes to a floud, and fals into the South Sea; from the other, they say the famous Riuer of Aporima takes her beginning; from the which some hold that the renowned Riuer of Amazons, otherwise called Maragnon proceedes, with so great an assembly and abundance of waters, which ioyne in these [ 40] Mountaines. It is a question may be often asked, why there is so many Lakes in the tops of these Mountaines,* 5.63 into the which no riuer enters, but contrariwise, many great streames issue forth, and yet doe we scarce see these Lakes to diminish any thing at any season of the yeare. To ima∣gine that these Lakes grow by the Snow that melts, or raine from heauen, that doth not wholly satisfie me: for there are many that haue not this abundance of Snow, nor raine, and yet wee see no decrease in them, which makes me to beleeue they are Springs which rise there naturally, al∣though it be not against reason, to thinke that the Snow and raine helpe somewhat in some sea∣sons. These Lakes are so common in the highest tops of the Mountaines, that you shall hardly finde any famous riuer that takes not his beginning from one of them. Their water is very cleere and breedes little store of fish,* 5.64 and that little is very small, by reason of the cold which is there [ 50] continually.

Notwithstanding, some of these Lakes be very hot, which is another wonder. At the end of the Vallie of Tarapaya neere to Potozi, there is a Lake in forme round, which seemes to haue beene made by compasse,* 5.65 whose water is extreamely hot, and yet the Land is very cold; they are accustomed to bathe themselues neere the banke, for else they cannot endure the heate being farther in. In the midst of this Lake, there is a boiling of aboue twentie foote square, which is the very Spring, and yet (notwithstanding the greatnesse of this Spring) it is neuer seene to increase in any sort: it seemes that it exhals of it selfe, or that it hath some hidden and vn∣knowne issue, neither doe they see it decrease; which is another wonder, although they haue drawne from it a great streame, to make certaine engines grinde for mettall, considering the great quantitie of water that issueth forth, by reason whereof, it should decrease. [ 60]

* 5.66But leauing Peru, and passing to new Spaine, the Lakes there, are no lesse to be obserued; especially that most famous of Mexico, where we finde two sorts of waters, one salt Lake like to that of the Sea, and the other cleere and sweete, by reason of the Riuers that enter into it.

In the midst of this Lake, is a rocke very delightfull and pleasant, where there are bathes of hot water that issue forth, the which they greatly esteeme for their health. There are Gardens in the middest of this Lake, framed and fleeting vpon the water, where you may see plots full of a thousand sorts of hearbes and flowers, & they are in such sort as a man cannot well conceiue them without sight. The Citie of Mexico is seated in the same Lake, although the Spaniards haue filled vp the place of the scituation with earth, leauing onely some currents of water, great and small, which enter into the Citie, to carrie such things as they haue neede of, as wood, hearbs, stone, fruites of the Countrie, and all other things. When Cortez conquered Mexico, hee cau∣sed Brigandins to be made, yet afterwards he thought it more safe not to vse them: therefore they vse Canoes, whereof there is great store. There is great store of fish in this Lake, yet haue [ 10] I not seene any of price: notwithstanding, they say the reuenue of this Lake, is worth three-hundred thousand Duckets a yeere. There are many other Lakes, not farre from this, whence they bring much fish to Mexico. The Prouince of Mechonacan is so called,* 5.67 for that it aboundeth greatly with fish. There are goodly and great Lakes, in the which there is much fish, and this Prouince is coole and healthfull. There are many other Lakes, whereof it is not possible to make mention, nor to know them in particular, onely wee may note by that which hath beene discoursed in the former Booke, that vnder the burning Zone there is greater abundance of Lakes, then in any other part of the world.

There is at the Indies as in other parts of the world, great diuersitie of Springs, Fountaines,* 5.68 and Riuers, and some haue strange properties. In Guancauilica of Peru (where the Mines of [ 20] Quick-siluer be,) there is a Fountaine that casts forth hot water, and in running, the water turnes to rocke, of which rocke or stone, they build in a manner all the houses of the Village. This stone is soft, and easie to cut, for they cut it as easily with Iron as if it were wood,* 5.69 it is light and lasting. If men or beasts drinke thereof, they dye, for that it congeales in the very entrailes, and turnes into stone, and for that cause some Horses haue died. As this water turnes into stone, the which flowes, stoppes the passage to the rest; so as of ne∣cessitie it changeth the course, and for this reason it runnes in diuers places, as the rocke increaseth. At the point of Cape Saint Helaine, there is a Spring or Fountaine of Pitch, which at Peru, they call Coppey.* 5.70 This should be like to that which the Scripture speakes of the sauage Valley, where they did finde pits of Pitch. The Marriners vse these Fountaines of Pitch or [ 30] Coppey, to pitch their ropes and tackling, for that it serues them as Pitch and Tarre in Spaine. When I sailed into new Spaine by the coast of Peru, the Pilot shewed me an Iland, which they call the Ile of Wolues, where there is another Fountaine or Pit of Coppey or Pitch, with the which they anoint their tackling. There are other Fountaines and Springs of Gouliranrozen, which the Pilot (an excellent man in his charge) told me he had seene, and that sometimes sailing that waies, being so farre into the Sea, as he had lost the sight of Land, yet did he know by the smell of the Coppey, where he was, as well as if he had knowne the Land, such is the fauour that issues conti∣nually from that Fountaine.

At the Bathes, which they call the Bathes of Ingua, there is a course of water,* 5.71 which comes forth all hot and boiling; and ioyning vnto it, there is another whose water is as cold [ 40] as Ice. The Ingua was accustomed to temper the one with the other; and it is a wonderfull thing to see Springs of so contrarie qualities, so neere one to the other. There are an infinite number of other hot Springs, specially in the Prouince of Charcas, in the water whereof, you cannot indure to hold your hand the space of an Aue Maria, as I haue seene tried by wager. In a Farme neere to Cusco, springs a Fountaine of Salt, which as it runnes turnes into Salt, very white and exceeding good,* 5.72 the which (if it were in another Countrie) were no small riches, yet they make very small account thereof, for the store they haue there. The waters which runne in Guayaquel, which is in Peru, almost vnder the Equinoctiall Line, are held to be healthfull for the French disease, and other such like, so as they come from many [ 50] places farre off to be cured. And they say the cause thereof is, for that in that Countrie there is great aboundance of rootes, which they call Salepareille,* 5.73 the vertue and operation whereof is so knowne, that it communicates her propertie to the waters wherein it is put to cure this dis∣ease. Bilcanota is a Mountaine the which (according to common opinion) is in the highest part of Peru, the top whereof is all couered with Snow, and in some places is blacke like coale. There issueth forth of it, two Springs in contrary places, which presently grow to be very great brooks, and so by little and little become great flouds, the one goes to Calloa, into the great Lake T••••caca; the other goes to the Lands, and is that which they call Yucay, which ioyning with another runnes into the North Sea, with a violent and furious course. This Spring, when it comes out of the rocke Bilcanota, as I haue said, is of the colour of lie, hauing an ashie colour,* 5.74 and casts a f••me as a [ 60] thing burnt, the which runs far in this sort, vntil the multitude of waters that run into it, quench this smoak and fire which it drawes from the Spring.* 5.75 In new Spain I haue seene a Spring as it were Ink, somewhat blew, in Peru another, of color red like blood, where vpon they cal it the red Riuer.* 5.76

Amongst all Riuers, not onely at the Indies, but generally through the world, the Riuer Ma∣ragnon, or of Amazons, is the chiefe, whereof we haue spoken in the former Booke. The Spa∣niards

haue often sailed it, pretending to discouer the Lands, which by report are very rich, especially those they call Dorado and Paytiti, Iean de Salnies, the Adelantade, made a memorable entrie, though of small effect. There is a passage which they call Pongo, one of the most dange∣rous in all the world;* 5.77 for the Riuer being there straightned, and forced betwixt two high steepe Rocks: the water fals directly downe with so great a violence, that comming steepe downe, it causeth such a boyling, as it seemeth impossible to passe it without drowning: yet the courage of men durst attempt to passe it, for the desire of this renowmed Dorado: they slipt downe from the top to the bottome, thrust on with the violence and currant of the floud, holding themselues fast in their Canoes or barkes: and although in falling they were turned topsie turuie, and both they and their Canoes plunged into the deepe, yet by their care and industrie they recouered [ 10] themselues againe; and in this sort the whole armie escaped, except some few that were drow∣ned.* 5.78 And that which is more admirable, they carried themselues so cunningly, that they neither lost their Powder nor Munition. In their returne (hauing suffered many troubles and dangers) they were forced, in the end, to passe backe that same way) mounting by one of those high Rocks, sticking their Ponyards in the Rocke,

Captaine Peter d'Orsua made another entrie by the same Riuer, who being dead in the same Voyage, and the Souldiers mutinied; other Captaines followed the enterprise, by an arme that comes into the North Sea. A religious man of our company told vs, that being then a secular man, he was present in a manner at all that enterprise, and that the tides did flow almost a hun∣dred leagues vp the Riuer, and whereas it enters into the Sea (the which is vnder the Line, or [ 20] very neere) it hath seuenty leagues breadth at the mouth of it, a matter incredible; and which ex∣ceeds the breadth of the Mediterranean Sea, though there be some others, who in their descripti∣ons giue it but twenty fiue or thirty leagues breadth at the mouth.

* 5.79Next to this Riuer that of Plata, or of Siluer holds the second place, which is otherwise called Paraguay, which runs from the Mountains of Peru, into the Sea, in thirty fiue degrees of altitude to the South: it riseth (as they say) like to the Riuer of Nile, but much more without comparison, and makes the fields it ouerflowes like vnto a Sea, for the space of three moneths, and after re∣turneth againe to his course, in the which Shippes doe saile many leagues against the streame. There are many other Riuers that are not of that greatnesse, and yet are equall: yea they surpasse the greatest of Europe, as that of Magdalaine, neere to Saint Marthe, called the great Riuer, and [ 30] that of Aluarado in new Spaine, and an infinite number of others. Of the South side, on the Moun∣taines of Peru, the Riuers are not vsually so great, for that their current is not long, and that ma∣ny waters cannot ioyne together, but they are very swift, descending from the Mountaines, and haue sodaine fals, by reason whereof they are very dangerous, and many men haue perished there. They increase and ouerflow most in the time of heate. I haue gone ouer twenty and se∣uen Riuers vpon that coast, yet did I neuer passe any one by a foord.

* 5.80The Indians vse a thousand deuises to passe their Riuers. In some places they haue a long cord that runnes from one side to th'other, and thereon hangs a basket, into the which he puts himselfe that meanes to passe; and then they draw it from the banke with another cord, so as he passeth in this basket. In other places the Indian passeth, as it were on Horse-backe, vpon a bottle of [ 40] straw, and behinde him he that desires to passe; and so rowing with a peece of a boord, carries him ouer. In other places they make a floate of gourds or pompions, vpon which they set men with their stuffe to carry ouer, and the Indians hauing cords fastned to them, goe swimming before, and draw this floate of pompions after them, as Horses doe a Coach: others goe behinde thrust∣ing it forward. Hauing passed, they take their barke of pompions vpon their backe, and returne swimming: this they doe in the Riuer of Saint at Peru. We passed that of Aluarado in new Spain vpon a table, which the Indians carried vpon their shoulders, and when they lost their footing, they swamme. These deuises, with a thousand other wherewith they vse to passe their Riuers, breede a terrour in the beholders, helping themselues with such weake and vnsure meanes; and yet they are very confident.* 5.81 They doe vse no other bridges but of haire or of straw. There are [ 50] now vpon some Riuers bridges of Stone, built by the diligence of some Gouernours, but many fewer then were needefull in such a Countrie, where so many men are drowned by default there∣of, and the which yeeldes so much Siluer, as not onely Spaine, but also other strange Countries make sumptuous buildings therewith. The Indians doe draw from these flouds that runne from the Mountaines to the Vallies and Plaines, many and great Brookes to water their Land, which they vsually doe with such industrie, as there are no better in Murcia, nor at Mil∣lan it selfe, the which is also the greatest and onely wealth of the Plaines of Peru, and of many other parts of the Indies.

[ 60]

§. III. Of the qualitie of the Land at the Indies in generall. Properties of Peru, and of new Spaine, and other parts: Of Vulcanes and Earthquakes.

WE may know the qualitie of the Land at the Indies, for the greatest part (seeing it is the last of the three Elements,* 5.82 whereof we haue propounded to treate in this Booke) by the discourse we haue made in the former Booke of the burning Zone, seeing that [ 10] the greatest part of the Indies doth lye vnder it. But to make it knowne the more particularly, I haue obserued three kindes of Lands, as I haue passed through those Regions: whereof there is one very low, another very high, and the third which holds the middle of these two extreames. The lower is that which lyeth by the Sea coasts, whereof there is in all parts of the Indies, and it is commonly very hot and moist, so as it is not so healthfull; and at this day we see it lesse peopled, although in former times it hath beene greatly inhabited with Indians, as it appeareth by the histories of new Spaine and Peru, and where they kept and liued, for that the soile was naturall vnto them being bred there. They liued of fishing at Sea, and of seeds, drawing brooks from the Riuers, which they vsed for want of raine, for that it raines little there, and in some places not at all. This low Countrie hath many places vnhabitable, as well by [ 20] reason of the Sands which are dangerous (for there are whole Mountaines of these Sands) as also for the Marishes which grow by reason of the waters that fall from the Mountaines, which fin∣ding no issue in these flat and low Lands, drowne them, and make them vnprofitable.

And in truth the greatest part of all the Indian Sea coast is of this sort, chiefly vpon the South Sea: the habitation of which coasts is at this present so wasted and contemned,* 5.83 that of thirty parts of the people that inhabited it, there wants twenty nine; and it is likely the rest of the Indians will in short time decay. Many, according to the varietie of their opinions, attribute this to diuers causes: some to the great labour which hath beene imposed vpon these Indians; o∣thers, vnto the change and varietie of meates and drinkes they vse, since their commerce with the Spaniards: others, to their great excesse and drinking, and to other vices they haue: for my [ 30] part, I hold this disorder to be the greatest cause of their decay, whereof it is not now time to dis∣course any more. In this low Countrie (which I say generally is vnhealthfull, ond vnfit for mans habitation) there is exception in some places which are temperate and fertile, as the greatest part of the Plaines of Peru, where there are coole vallies and very fertile. The greatest part of the habitation of the coast entertains all the traffike of Spain by Sea: whereon all the estate of the In∣dies dependeth. Vpon this coast there are some Towns well peopled, as Lima and Truxillo in Pe∣ru, Panama and Carthagena vpon the maine Land, and in the Ilands Saint Dominique, Port Ricco, and Hauana, with many other Towns which are lesse then these, as the True Crosse in new Spain, Y••a, Arigua and others in Peru: the Ports are commonly inhabited, although but slenderly. The second sort of Land is contrary, very high, and by consequent, cold and dry, as all the Moun∣taines [ 40] are commonly. This Land is neither fertile nor pleasant, but very healthfull, which makes it to be peopled and inhabited. There are Pastures and great store of Cattle, the which, for the most part, entertaines life, and by their Cattell, they supply the want they haue of Corne and Graine, by trucking and exchange. But that which makes these Lands more inhabited and peopled, is the riches of the Mines that are found there, for that all obeys to Gold and Siluer. By reason of the Mines there are some dwellings of Spaniards and Indians, which are increased and multiplied, as Potozi and Gancanelicqua in Peru, and Cacatecas in new Spaine. There are also through all these Mountaines great dwellings of the Indians, which to this day are main∣tained; yea some will say they increase, but that the labour of the Mines doth consume many, and some generall diseases haue destroyed a great part, as the Cocoliste in new Spaine: yet they [ 50] finde no great diminution. In this extremitie of high ground they finde two commodities, as I haue said, of Pastures and Mines, which doe well counteruaile the two other that are in the lower grounds alongst the Sea coast, that is, the commerce of the Sea, and the abundance of Wine which groweth not but in the hot Lands. Betwixt these two extreames there is ground of a meane height, the which, although it be in some parts higher or lower one then other,* 5.84 yet doth it not approach neither to the heate of the Sea coast, nor the intemperature of the Moun∣taines. In this sort of soyle there groweth many kindes of Graine, as Wheate, Barley, and Mays, which growes not at all in the high Countries, but well in the lower; there is likewise store of Pasture, Cattell, Fruits, and greene Forrests. This part is the best habitation of the three, [ 60] for health and recreation; and therefore it is best peopled of any part of the Indies, the which I haue curiously obserued in many Voyages that I haue vndertaken, and haue alwayes found it true, that the Prouince best peopled at the Indies be in this scituation. Let vs looke neerely into new Spaine (the which without doubt is the best Prouince the Sunne doth circle) by what part soeuer you doe enter, you mount vp; and when you haue mounted a good height, you begin to

descend, yet very little: and that Land is alwayes much higher then that along the Sea coast.

All the Land about Mexico is of this nature and scituation; and that which is about the Vul∣can, which is the best soile of the Indies, as also in Peru, Arequipa, Guamangua and Cusco, al∣though more in one then in the other. But in the end, all is high ground, although they descend into deepe Vallies, and clime vp to high Mountaines: the like is spoken of Quitto, Saint Foy, and of the best of the New Kingdome. To conclude, I doe beleeue that the wisedome and prouidence of the Creator would haue it so, that the greatest part of this Countrie of the Indies should be hillie, that it might be of a better temperature: for being low, it had beene very hot vnder the burning Zone, especially being farre from the Sea. Also all the Land I haue seene at the Indies, [ 10] is neere to the Mountaines on the one side or the other, and sometimes of all parts: So as I haue oftentimes said there, that I would gladly see any place, from whence the horizon did fashion it selfe and end by the heauen, and a Countrie stretched out and euen, as we see in Spaine in a thousand champaine fields; yet doe I not remember that I haue euer seene such sights at the Indies,* 5.85 were it in the Ilands, or vpon the maine Land, although I haue trauelled aboue seuen hundred leagues in length. But as I haue said, the neerenesse of the Mountaines is very commo∣dious in this region, to temper the heate of the Sunne. To conclude, the best inhabited parts of the Indies are as I haue said: and generally, all that Countrie abounds in Grasse, Pastures, and For∣rests, contrary vnto that which Aristotle and the ancients did hold. So as when we go out of Eu∣rope to the Indies we wonder to see the Land so pleasant, greene and fresh. Yet this rule hath some [ 20] exceptions, and chiefly in the Land of Peru, which is of a strange nature amongst all others, whereof we will now proceede to speake.

We meane by Peru, not that great part of the world which they call America, seeing that therein is contained Bresil,* 5.86 the Kingdome of Chille, and that of Grenade, and yet none of these Kingdomes is Peru, but onely that part which lies to the South, beginning at the Kingdome of Quitto, which is vnder the Line, and runs in length to the Realme of Chille, the which is without the Tropickes, which were six hundred leagues in length, and in breadth it containes no more then the Mountaines, which is fiftie common leagues, although in some places, as at Chachapayas, it be broader. This part of the world which wee call Peru, is very remarkeable, and containes in it strange properties, which serueth as an exception to the generall rule of the [ 30] Indies.* 5.87 The first is, that vpon all the coast it blowes continually with one onely winde, which is South and South-west, contrary to that which doth vsually blow vnder the burning Zone. The second is, that this winde being by nature the most violent, tempestuous, and vnhealth∣full of all others, yet in this Region it is maruellous pleasing, healthfull, and agreeable: so as we may attribute the habitation of that part thereunto, without the which it would be trou∣blesome and inhabitable, by reason of the heate, if it were not refreshed with the winde. The third propertie is, that it neuer raines, thunders, snowes, nor hailes in all this coast, which is a matter worthy of admiration. Fourthly, that a little distance from the coast it raines & snowes terribly. Fiftly, that there are two ridges of Mountaines which runne the one as the other, and in one altitude, notwithstanding on the one there are great Forrests, and it raines the greatest [ 40] part of the yeare, being very hot; and the other is all naked and bare, and very cold: so as win∣ter and summer are diuided on those two Mountaines, and raine▪ and cleerenesse it selfe. For the better vnderstanding hereof, we must consider that Peru is diuided as it were into three parts, long and narrow,* 5.88 which they call Lanos, Sierras, and Andes; the Lanos runs alongst the Sea coast; the Sierras be all hils, with some vallies; and the Andes be steepe and craggie Mountaines. The La∣nos or Sea coast, haue some ten leagues in breadth, in some parts lesse, and in some parts a little more. The Sierra containes some twenty leagues in breadth: and the Andes as much, sometimes more, sometimes lesse. They run in length from North to South, and in breadth from East to West. It is a strange thing, that in so small a distance as fiftie leagues, equally distant from the Line and Pole, there should be so great a contrarietie, as to raine almost continually in one place,* 5.89 and neuer in the other. It neuer raines vpon the coast or Lanos, although there fals some∣times [ 50] a small dew, which they call Guarna, and in Castill Mollina▪ the which sometimes thick∣ens, and fals in certaine drops of water, yet is it not troublesome, nor such as they neede any co∣uering. Their couerings are of mats with a little earth vpon them which is sufficient. Vpon the Andes it raines in a manner continually, although it be sometimes more cleere then other. In the Sierra which lies betwixt both the extreames, it raineth in the same season as it doth in Spaine, which is from September vnto Aprill, but in the other season, the time is more cleere, which is when the Sunne is farthest off, and the contrary when it is neerest. That which they call Andes, and Sierra, are two ridges of most high Mountaines, which runne aboue a thou∣sand leagues, the one in view of the other, and almost equally. There are an infinite number of Vicagues, which breede in the Sierres, and are properly like vnto wilde Goates, very nim∣ble [ 60] and swift.* 5.90 There are also of those beasts which they call Guanacos and Pacos, which are sheepe, which we may well tearme the Asses of that Countrie; whereof we shall speake in their place. And vpon the Andes they finde Apes, very gentle and delightfull, and Parrots in great

numbers. There also they finde the herbe or tree which they call Coca, that is so greatly estee∣med by the Indians, and the trafficke they make of it, is worth much mony.

That which they call Sierre, causeth Vallies, where as it opens, which are the best dwellings of Peru, as is the Valley of Xauxa of Andaguaylas, and Yucay. In these Vallies there growes Wheat, Mays, and other sorts of fruits, but lesse in one then in the other. Beyond the Citie of Cusco (the ancient Court of the Lords of those Realmes) the two ridges of Mountaines se∣parate themselues one from the other, and in the midst leaue a Playne and large Champaigne, which they call the Prouince of Callao, where there are many Riuers and great store of fertile Pastures: there is also that great Lake of Titicaca. And although it bee a full soile, and in the [ 10] same height and intemperature, that the Sierre, hauing no more Trees nor Forrests, yet the want they haue of bread is counteruailed with the rootes they sow, the which they call Papas, and they grow in the earth. This roote is the Indians foode; for drying it and making it cleane,* 5.91 they make that which they call Chugno, which is the bread and nourishment of those Prouin∣ces. There are other rootes and small herbes which they eate. It is a healthfull soile, best peo∣pled, and the richest of all the Indies, for the abundance of Cattell they feede, as well of those that are in Europe, as Sheepe, Neat, and Goates, as of those of the Country, which they call Guanacos and Pacos, and there are store of Partridges. Next to the Prouince of Callao, is that of Charcas, where there are hot Vallies very fertile, and very high Rocks, the which are very rich in mynes, so as in no part of the World shall you finde better nor fairer.

[ 20] For that it is rare and extraordinarie to see a Country where it neuer raines nor thunders;* 5.92 men desire naturally to know the cause of this strangenesse. The reason which some giue that haue neerly looked into it, is, that vpon that Coast there rise no vapours, sufficient to engen∣der raine for want of matter; but onely that there bee small and light vapours, which cannot breede any other then mists and deawes, as wee see in Europe, oftentimes vapours doe rise in the morning, which are not turned into raine, but into mists onely: the which growes from the substance, which is not grosse and sufficient enough to turne to raine. They say, the rea∣son why that which happens but some times in Europe, falls out continually vpon the Coast of Peru, is, for that this Region is very drie, and yeelds no grosse vapours. The drinesse is knowne by the great abundance of Sands, hauing neither Wells nor Fountaines, but of fifteene S••ades [ 30] deepe (which is the height of a man or more) and that is neere vnto Riuers, the water where∣of, piercing into the Land, giues them meanes to make Wells. So as it hath beene found by experience, that the course of Riuers being turned, the Wells haue beene dried vp, vntill they returned to their ordinarie course: and they giue this reason for a materiall cause of this effect, but they haue another efficient, which is no lesse considerable, and that is the great height of the Sierre, which comming along the Coast, shadowes the Lanos; so as it suffers no winde to blow from the Land, but aboue the tops of these Mountaines. By meanes whereof, there reignes no winde, but that from the Sea, which finding no opposite, doth not presse nor straine forth the vapours which rise to engender raine; so as the shadow of the Mountaines keepes the vapours from thickning, and conuerts them all into mists. There are some experiences agree [ 40] with this discourse; for that it raines vpon some small Hills along the Coast, which are least shadowed, as the Rocks of Atico and Arequipa. It hath rained in some yeeres when as the Northerne or Easterly windes haue blowne: yea, all the time they haue continued, as it happe∣ned in seuentie eight, vpon the Lanos of Trugillo, where it rained abundantly, the which they had not seene in many ages before. Moreouer, it raines vpon the same Coast in places, where as the Easterly or Northerne windes be ordinarie, as in Guayaquil, and in places where as the Land riseth much, and turnes from the shadow of the Mountaines, as in those that are beyond Ariqua. Some discourse in this manner, but let euery one thinke as he please. It is most certaine, that comming from the Mountaines to the Vallies, they doe vsually see as it were two Heauens, one cleere and bright aboue, and the other obscure, and as it were a gray vaile spread [ 50] vnderneath, which couers all the Coast: and although it raine not, yet this mist is wonderfull profitable to bring forth grasse, and to raise vp and nourish the seed: for although they haue plen∣tie of water, which they draw from the Pooles and Lakes, yet this moisture from Heauen hath such a vertue, that ceasing to fall vpon the Earth, it breedes a great discommoditie and defect of graine and seedes. And that which is more worthy of admiration, the drie and barren Sands are by this deaw so beautified with grasse and flowers, as it is a pleasing and agreeable sight, and very profitable for the feeding of Cattell, as we see in the Mountaine called Sandie, neere to the Ci∣tie of Kings.

New Spaine passeth all other Prouinces in pastur••s, which breedes infinite troopes of Horse,* 5.93 Kine, Sheepe, and other Cattell. It abounds in fruit and all kinde of graine. To conclude, it is a [ 60] Country the best furnished and most accomplished at the Indies. Yet Peru doth surpasse it in one thing, which is Wine, for that there growes store and good; and they daily multiply and in∣crease, the which doth grow in very hot Vallies, where there are waterings. And although there be Vines in new Spaine, yet the grape comes not to his maturitie, fit to make Wine. The reason is, for that it raines there in Iuly and August, when as the grape ripens: and therefore it comes

not to his perfection. And if any one through curiositie would take the paines to make wine, it should be like to that of Genua and Lombardie, which is very small and sharpe, hauing a taste like vnto Verjuyce. The Ilands which they call Barlouente, which bee Hispaniola, Cuba, Port Ricco, and others thereabouts, are beautified with many greene pastures, and abound in Cattell, as Neat, and Swine,* 5.94 which are become wilde. The wealth of these Ilands, bee their Sugar-workes and Hides. There is much Cassia fistula and Ginger. It is a thing incredible, to see the multitude of these merchandizes brought in one fleete, being in a manner impossible that all Europe should waste so much. They likewise bring wood of an excellent qualitie and colour, as Ebone, and o∣thers, which serue for buildings and Ioyners. There is much of that wood which they call Lig∣num sanctum or Guage, fit to cure the pox. All these Ilands and others thereabouts, which are many, haue a goodly and pleasant aspect, for that throughout the yeere, they are beautified with [ 10] grasse and greene trees, so as they cannot discerne when it is Autumne or Summer, by reason of continuall moisture ioyned to the heat of the burning Zone. And although this Land bee of a great circuit, yet are there few dwellings, for that of it selfe it engenders great Arcabutos, as they call them, which be Groues or very thicke Coppises: and on the Playnes there are many ma∣rishes and bogs. They giue yet another notable reason, why they are so smally peopled, for that there haue remayned few naturall Indians, through the inconsideratnesse and disorder of the first Conquerors that peopled it:* 5.95 and therefore, for the most part, they vse Negros, but they cost deare, being very fit to till the Land. There growes neither bread nor wine in these Ilands, for that the too great fertilitie and the vice of the soile, suffers them not to seede, but casts all forth in grasse, very vnequally. There are no Oliue trees, at the least, they beare no Oliues, but many [ 20] greene leaues pleasant to the view, which beare no fruit. The bread they vse is of Caçaue, whereof we shall hereafter speake. There is gold in the Riuers of these Ilands, which some draw forth, but in small quantitie. I was little lesse then a yeere in these Ilands, and as it hath beene told me of the mayne Land of the Indies, where I haue not beene, as in Florida, Nicaragua, Gua∣timala, and others, it is in a manner of this temper, as I haue described: yet haue I not set downe euery particular of Nature in these Prouinces of the firme Land, hauing no perfect knowledge thereof. The Country which doth most resemble Spaine and the Regions of Europe, in all the West Indies, is the Realme of Chille, which is without the generall rule of these other Prouinces, being seated without the burning Zone, and the Tropicke of Capricorne. This Land of it selfe is coole and fertile, and brings forth all kindes of fruits that bee in Spaine; it yeelds great abun∣dance [ 30] of bread and wine, and abounds in Pastures and Cattell. The aire is wholsome and cleere, temperate betwixt heat and cold, Winter and Summer are very distinct, and there they finde great store of very fine gold. Yet this Land is poore and smally peopled, by reason of their continuall warre with the Auricanos, and their Associates, being a rough people and friends to libertie.

There are great coniectures, that in the temperate Zone at the Antartike Pole, there are great and fertile Lands:* 5.96 but to this day they are not discouered, neither doe they know any other Land in this Zone, but that of Chille, and some part of that Land which runnes from Ethiopia to the Cape of Good Hope, as hath beene said in the first Booke; neither is it knowne if there bee any habitations in the other two Zones of the Poles, and whether the Land continues and stretch∣eth [ 40] to that which is towards the Antartike or South Pole. Neither doe we know the Land that lyes beyond the Straight of Magellan, for that the greatest height yet discouered, is in fiftie sixe degrees, as hath beene formerly said; and toward the Artike or Northerne Pole, it is not known how farre the Land extends, which runnes beyond the Cape of Mendoçin and the Caliphornes, nor the bounds and end of Florida, neither yet how farre it extends to the West. Of late they haue discouered a new Land, which they call New Mexico, where they say is much people that speake the Mexican tongue. The Philippines and the following Ilands, as some report that know it by experience, ranne aboue nine hundred leagues. But to intreat of China, Cochinchina, Siam, and other Regions which are of the East Indies, were contrarie to my purpose, which is onely to discourse of the West: nay, they are ignorant of the greatest part of America, which lyes be∣twixt [ 50] Peru and Bresil, although the bounds be knowne of all sides, wherein there is diuersitie of opinions; some say it is a drowned Land, full of Lakes and waterie places; others affirme there are great and flourishing Kingdomes, imagining there be the Paytiti, the Dorado, and the Caesars, where they say are wonderfull things. I haue heard one of our companie say, a man worthy of credit, that he had seene great dwellings there, and the wayes as much beaten as those betwixt Salamanca and Villadillit, the which he did see, when as Peter d'Orsua, and after, those that suc∣ceeded him, made their entrie and discouerie by the great Riuer of Amazons, who beleeuing that the Dorado which they sought, was farther off, cared not to inhabit there, and after went both without the Dorado, which they could not finde, and this great Prouince which they left. [ 60] To speake the truth, the habitations of America are to this day vnknowne, except the extremi∣ties, which are Peru, Bresil, and that part where the Land begins to straighten, which is the Ri∣uer of Siluer, then Tucuman, which makes the round to Chille and Charcas. Of late we haue vn∣derstood by Letters from some of ours which goe to Saint Croix in the Sierre, that they goe dis∣couering

of great Prouinces and dwellings, betwixt Bresil and Peru. Time will reueile them, for as at this day the care and courage of men is great, to compasse the World from one part to another; so we may beleeue, that as they haue discouered that which is now knowne, they may likewise lay open that which remaynes, to the end the Gospell may bee preached to the whole World, seeing the two Crownes of Portugal and Castile haue met by the East and West, ioyning their discoueries together, which in truth is a matter to be obserued, that the one is come to Chi∣na and Iapan by the East, and the other to the Philippines, which are neighbours, and almost ioy∣ning vnto China, by the West: for from the Ilands of Lusson, which is the chiefe of the Philippi∣nes, in the which is the Citie of Manille, vnto Macaeo, which is in the Ile of Canton, are but foure [ 10] score or a hundred leagues, and yet we finde it strange, that notwithstanding this small distance from the one to the other, yet according to their account, there is a dayes difference betwixt them; so as it is Sunday at Macao, when as it is but Saturday at Manille, and so of the rest. Those of Macao and of China haue one day aduanced before the Philippines. It happened to fa∣ther Alonse Sanches, of whom mention is made before, that parting from the Philippines, hee arriued at Macao the second day of May, according to their computation, and going to say the Masse of Saint Athanasim, he found they did celebrate the feast of the Inuention of the holy Crosse, for that they did then reckon the third of May. The like happened vnto him in another voyage beyond it.

Some haue found this alteration and diuersitie strange, supposing that the fault proceedes from [ 20] the one or the other, the which is not so: but it is a true and well obserued computation, for ac∣cording to the difference of wayes where they haue beene, we must necessarily say, that when they meet, there must be difference of a day; the reason is, for that sayling from West to East, they alwayes gaine of the day, finding the Sunne rising sooner: and contrariwise, those that saile from East to West, doe alwayes lose of the day, for that the Sunne riseth later vnto them; and as they approach neerer the East or the West, they haue the day longer or shorter. In Peru, which is Westward in respect of Spaine, they are aboue sixe houres behinde; so as when it is noone in Spaine, it is morning at Peru; and when it is morning here, it is mid-night there. I haue made certaine proofe thereof, by the computation of Eclipses of the Sunne and Moone. Now that the Portugals haue made their nauigations from West to East, and the Castillans from [ 30] East to West, when they came to ioyne and meet at the Philippines and Macao, the one haue gay∣ned twelue houres, and the other hath lost as much; so as at one instant, and in one time, they finde the difference of foure and twentie houres, which is a whole day.

Although we finde vents of fire in other places, as Mount Aetna and Vesunio, which now they call Mount Soma, yet is that notable which is found at the Indies.* 5.97 Ordinarily these Volcans be Rocks or Pikes of most high Mountaines, which raise themselues aboue the tops of all other Mountaines; vpon their tops they haue a Playne, and in the midst thereof a pit or great mouth, which descends euen vnto the foote thereof; a thing very terrible to behold. Out of these mouthes there issues smoake, and sometimes fire: some cast little smoake, and haue in a manner no force of Volcans, as that of Arequipa, which is of an vnmeasurable height, and almost all sand. [ 40] It cannot be mounted vp in lesse then two dayes, yet they haue not found any shew of fire, but onely the reliques of some sacrifices which the Indians made while they were Gentiles, and some∣times it doth cause a little smoake. The Volcan of Mexico which is neere to the Village of Angels, is likewise of an admirable height, whereas they mount thirtie leagues in turning: from this Volcan issueth not continually, but sometimes, almost euery day, a great exhalation or whirle∣winde of smoake, which ascends directly vp like to the shot of a Crosse-bow, and growes after like to a great plume of feathers, vntill it ceaseth quite, and is presently conuerted into an ob∣scure and darke cloude. Most commonly it riseth in the morning after the Sunne rising, and at night when it setteth, although I haue seene it breake out at other times. Sometimes it doth cast forth great store of ashes after this smoake. They haue not yet seene any fire come from it; yet they feare it will issue forth and burne all the Land round about, which is the best of all the [ 50] Kingdome: And they hold it for certaine, that there is some correspondencie betwixt this Vul∣can and the Sierre of Tlaxcala, which is neere vnto it, that causeth the great thunders and light∣nings they doe commonly heare and see in those parts.

Some Spaniards haue mounted vp to this Volcan, and giuen notice of the myne of sulphur to make powlder thereof. Cortez reports the care he had to discouer what was in this Volcan. The Volcans of Guatimala are more renowmed, as well for their greatnesse and height: which those that saile in the South Sea discouer afarre off, as for the violence and terrour of the fire it casts. The three and twentieth day of December, in the yeere 1586. almost all the Citie of Guatimala fell with an Earthquake, and some people slaine. This Volcan had then sixe moneths together,* 5.98 [ 60] day and night cast out from the top, and vomited as it were, a floud of fire, the substance falling vpon the sides of the Volcan, was turned into ashes like vnto burnt earth (a thing passing mans iudgement, to conceiue how it could cast so much matter from its centre during sixe moneths, being accustomed to cast smoake alone, and that sometimes with small flashes.) This was writ∣ten vnto me being at Mexico, by a Secretarie of the Audience of Guatimala, a man worthy of

credit, and at that time it had not ceased to cast out fire. This yeere past, being in Quitto in the Citie of Kings, the Volcan which is neere thereunto, cast such abundance of ashes, that in many leagues compasse thereabout it darkned the light of the day: and there fell such store in Quitto, as they were not able to goe in the streets. There haue beene other Volcans seene which cast nei∣ther smoake, flame, nor yet ashes, but in the bottome they are seene to burne with a quicke fire without dying:* 5.99 such a one was that which in our time a couetous and greedie Priest seeing, per∣swaded himselfe that they were heapes of gold he did see burning, imagining it could be no other matter or substance, which had burnt so many yeeres, and not consumed. And in this conceit he made certaine kettles with chaines, and an instrument, to gather and draw vp the gold out of this Pit or Volcan: but the fire scorned him, for no sooner did his Iron chaine and Caldron ap∣proach [ 10] neere the fire, but suddenly they were broken in pieces. Yet some told me, that this man was still obstinate, seeking other inuentions for to draw out this gold as he imagined.

* 5.100Some haue held opinion, that these Volcans consume the inner substance they haue of Nature; and for this reason they beleeue, that naturally they shall end, when as they haue consumed the fuell (as a man may say) that is within them. According to which opinion wee see at this day, some Mountaines and Rocks, from whence they draw a burnt stone which is light, but ve∣ry hard, and is excellent to build with, as that which is carried to Mexico. And in effect there are some shewes of that which hath beene spoken, that these Mountaines or Rocks had somtimes a naturall fire, which hath died after the matter was consumed; and so these stones haue remay∣ned burnt and pierced with the fire as wee see. For my part, I will not contradict it, that in those places there hath not beene fire sometimes, or Volcans. But there is some difficultie to be∣leeue [ 20] it should be so in all Volcans, considering the matter they cast out is almost infinite; and that being gathered together, it could not bee contayned in the same concauitie from whence it goes. Moreouer, there are some Volcans, that in hundreds, yea thousands of yeeres are alwayes of one fashion, casting out continually smoake, fire, and ashes. Plinie the historiographer of na∣turall things (as the other Plinie his nephew reports) searching out the secret how this should passe: and approaching too neere the exhalation of fire of one of these Volcans, died; and thin∣king by his diligence to find an end thereof, had an end of his life. For my part, vpon this con∣sideration I thinke, that as there are places in the earth, whose vertue is to draw vaporous matter, and to conuert it into water, which bee the Fountaines that alwayes runne, and haue alwayes [ 30] matter to make them runne, for that they draw vnto them the substance of water. In like sort there are places that haue the propertie to draw vnto them hot exhalations, and to conuert them into fire and smoake which by their force and violence cast out other thicke matter which dis∣solues into ashes, into pumice stone, or such like substance: and for a sufficient argument to proue it to be so in these Volcans, they sometimes cast smoake, and not alwayes, and sometimes fire, and not alwayes, which is according to that it can draw vnto it, and digest, as the Fountaines which in Winter abound, and in Summer decrease; yea some are quite dried vp, according to the force and vigour they haue, and the matter that is presented: euen so it is of these Volcans, which cast fire more or lesse at certaine seasons. Others say, that it is Hell fire, which issueth there, to serue as a warning, thereby to consider what is in the other life: but if Hell (as Diuines [ 40] hold) bee in the centre of the Earth, the which containes in diameter aboue two thousand leagues,* 5.101 we cannot iudge that this fire is from the centre; for that Hell fire (as Saint Basil and others teach) is very different from this which wee see, for that it is without light, and burneth without comparison much more then ours.

* 5.102Some haue held, that from these Volcans which are at the Indies, the Earthquakes proceede, being very common there: but for that they ordinarily chance in places farre from those Volcans, it cannot be the totall cause. It is true they haue a certaine simpathy one with another, for that the hot exhalations which engender in the inner concauities of the Earth, seeme to be the mate∣riall substance of fire in the Volcans, whereby there kindleth another more grosse matter, and makes these shewes of flame and smoake that come forth. And these exhalations (finding no ea∣sie [ 50] issue in the Earth) moue it, to issue forth with great violence, whereby wee heare that hor∣rible noise vnder the Earth, and likewise the shaking of the Earth, being stirred with this bur∣ning exhalation; Euen as Gun-powlder in mynes, hauing fire put to it breaks Rocks and Walls: and as the Chesnut laid into the fire, leapes and breakes with a noise, when as it casts forth the aire (which is contayned within the huske) by the force of the fire: Euen so these Earthquakes doe most commonly happen in places neere the water or Sea. As wee see in Europe, and at the Indies, that Townes and Cities farthest from the Sea and waters are least afflicted therewith; and contrariwise, those that are seated vpon Ports of the Sea, vpon Riuers, the Sea coast, and pla∣ces neere vnto them, feele most this calamitie. There hath happened in Peru (the which is wonderfull, and worthy to be noted) Earthquakes which haue runne from Chille vnto Quitto, [ 60] and that is aboue a hundred leagues,* 5.103 I say the greatest that euer I heard speake of, for lesser be more common there. Vpon the coast of Chille (I remember not well in what yeere) there was so terrible an Earthquake, as it ouer-turned whole Mountaines, and thereby stopped the course of Riuers which it conuerted into Lakes, it beat downe Townes, and slue a great number of people.

causing the Sea to leaue her place some leagues, so as the ships remayned on drie ground, farre from the ordinarie Roade, with many other heauie and horrible things. And as I well remem∣ber, they say this trouble and motion, caused by the Earthquake, ranne three hundred leagues a∣longst the Coast. Soone after, which was in the yeere eightie two, happened that earthquake of Arequipa, which in a manner ouer-threw the whole Citie. Since in the yeere eightie sixe, the ninth of Iuly, fell another earthquake in the Citie of Kings, the which as the Vice-roy did write, had runne one hundred threescore and ten leagues alongst the Coast, and ouerthwart in the Sierre fiftie leagues. The mercy of the Lord was great in this Earthquake,* 5.104 to forewarne the people by a great noise which they heard a little before the Earthquake, who taught by former [ 10] experiences, presently put themselues in safetie, leauing their Houses, Streets, and Gardens, to goe into the fields; so as although it ruined a great part of the Citie, and of the chiefest buil∣dings, yet there died not aboue fifteene or twentie persons of all the Inhabitants. It caused the like trouble and motion at Sea, as it had done at Chille, which happened presently after the Earthquake, so as they might see the Sea furiously to flie out of her bounds, and to runne neere two leagues into the Land, rising aboue fourteene fathom: it couered all that Playne, so as the Ditches and pieces of wood that were there; swam in the water. There was yet another earth∣quake in the Realme and Citie of Quitto; and it seemes all these notable Earthquakes vpon that Coast, haue succeeded one another by order, as in truth it is subiect to these inconueniences. And therefore although vpon the coast of Peru, there be no torments from Heauen, as thunder and [ 20] lightning, yet are they not without feare vpon the Land: and so euery one hath before his eyes, the Heralds of diuine Iustice, to mooue him to feare God. For as the Scripture saith, F••cit haec vt timeatur. Returning then to our purpose, I say the Sea coast is most subiect to these earthquakes,* 5.105 the reason is, in my iudgement, for that the water doth stop the conduits and passages of the earth, by which the hot exhalations should passe, which are engendered there. And also the hu∣miditie thickning the superficies of the earth, doth cause the fumes and hot exhalations to goe close together and encounter violently in the bowels of the earth, which doe afterwards breake foorth.

Some haue obserued, that such Earthquakes haue vsually hapned, when as a raynie season falls after some drie yeeres. Whereupon they say, that the Earthquakes are most rare, where are [ 30] most Wells, the which is approued by experience. Those of the Citie of Mexico hold opinion, that the Lake whereon it is seated, is the cause of the Earthquakes that happen there, although they be not very violent: and it is most certaine, that the Townes and Prouinces, farre within the Land, and farthest from the Sea, receiue sometimes great losses by these Earthquakes, as the Citie of Chachapoyas at the Indies, and in Italie that of Ferrara, although vpon this subiect.* 5.106 It seemes this latter, being neere to a Riuer, and not farre from the Adriaticke Sea, should rather be numbred among the Sea-townes. In the yeere of our Lord 1581. in Cugian••, a Citie of Peru, o∣therwise called The Peace, there happened a strange accident touching this subiect. A Village called Angoango (where many Indians dwelt that were Sorcerers and Idolaters) fell suddenly to ruine, so as a great part thereof was raysed vp and carried away,* 5.107 and many of the Indians smo∣thered, [ 40] and that which seemes incredible (yet testified by men of credit) the earth that was rui∣ned and so beaten downe, did runne and slide vpon the Land for the space of a league and a halfe, as it had beene water or waxe molten, so as it stopt and filled vp a Lake, and remayned so spread ouer the whole Countrie.

§. IIII. Of Metals in the Indies and especially of the Gold and Siluer, and Quick-siluer.

[ 50]

MEtals are (as Plants) hidden and buried in the bowels of the Earth, which haue some conformitie in themselues, in the forme and manner of their production;* 5.108 for that we see and discouer euen in them, branches, and as it were a bodie, from whence they grow and proceede, which are the greater veines and the lesse, so as they haue a knitting in themselues: and it seemes properly that these Minerals grow like vnto Plants, not that they haue any inward vegetatiue life, being onely proper to Plants: but they are engendered in the bowels of the earth, by the vertue and force of the Sunne and other Planets, and in long conti∣nuance of time, they increase and multiply after the manner of Plants. And euen as metals bee plants hidden in the earth, so wee may say, that plants bee liuing Creatures fixed in one place, [ 60] whose life is maintayned by the nourishment which Nature furnisheth from their first begin∣ning. But liuing Creatures surpasse Plants, in that they haue a more perfect being;* 5.109 and therefore haue neede of a more perfect foode and nourishment; for the search whereof, Nature hath giuen them a moouing and feeling to discouer and discerne it. So as the rough and barren earth is as a substance and nutriment for metals; and that which is fertile and better seasoned a nourishment

for Plants. The same plants serue as a nourishment for liuing creatures, and the plants and liuing creatures together as a nourishment for men, the inferiour nature alwayes seruing for the mainte∣nance and sustentation of the superiour, and the lesse perfect yeelding vnto the more perfect: whereby wee may see how much it wants, that gold and siluer and other things which men so much esteeme by their couetousnesse, should bee the happinesse of man, whereunto hee should tend, seeing they bee so many degrees in qualitie inferior to man, who hath beene created and made onely to be a subiect to serue the vniuersall Creator of all things, as his proper end and per∣fect rest; and to which man, all other things in this world, were not propounded or left, but to gaine this last end.

The diuersitie of metals, which the Creator hath shut vp in the closets and concauities of the earth, is such, and so great, that man drawes profit and commoditie from euery one of them. [ 10] Some serue for curing of diseases, others for armes and for defence against the enemies, some are for ornament and beautifying of our persons and houses, and others are fit to make vessels and I∣ron-workes, with diuers fashions of instruments, which the industrie of man hath found out and put in practice. But aboue all the vses of metals, which be simple and naturall, the commu∣nication and commerce of men hath found out one, which is the vse of money, the which (as the Philosopher saith) is the measure of all things.* 5.110 And although naturally, and of it selfe, it bee but one onely thing, yet in value and estimation we may say, that it is all things. Money is vnto vs as it were, meate, clothing, house, horse, and generally whatsoeuer man hath need of. By this meanes all obeyes to money,* 5.111 and as the Wiseman saith, to finde an inuention that one thing should be all. Men guided or thrust forward by a naturall instinct, choose the thing most durable [ 20] and most maniable, which is metall, and amongst metals, gaue them the preheminence in this inuention of money, which of their nature were most durable and incorruptible, which is siluer and gold. A Wiseman said, that what a father doth to marry his daughter well, is to giue her a great portion in marriage; the like hath God done for this Land so rough and laboursome, gi∣uing it great riches in mynes, that by this meanes it might be the more sought after. At the west Indies then there are great store of mynes of all sorts of metals, as Copper, Iron, Lead, Tinne, Quick-siluer, Siluer, and Gold: and amongst all the Regions and Parts of the Indies, the Realmes or Peru abound most in these metals, especially with Gold, Siluer, Quick-siluer, or Mercurie, whereof they haue found great store, and daily discouer new mynes. And without doubt, ac∣cording [ 30] to the qualitie of the earth, those which are to discouer, are without comparison, farre more in number then those which are yet discouered: yea, it seemes that all the Land is sowed with these metals, more then any other in the world that is yet known vnto vs, or that ancient Writers haue made mention of.

* 5.112The reason why there is so great abundance of metals at the Indies (especially at the west of Peru, as I haue said) is the will of the Creator, who hath imparted his gifts as it pleased him. But comming to a naturall and philosophicall reason, it is very true, which Philon a wise man writes, saying, that gold, siluer, and metals, grow naturally in land that is most barren and vn∣fruitfull. And wee see, that in Lands of good temperature, the which are fertile with grasse and fruits, there are seldome found any mynes; for that Nature is contented to giue them vigour to bring forth fruits more necessarie for the preseruation and maintenance of the life of beasts and [ 40] men. And contrariwise to lands that are very rough, drie, and barren (as in the highest Moun∣taines and inaccessible Rocks of a rough temper) they finde mynes of siluer, of quick-siluer, and of gold, and all those riches (which are come into Spaine since the West Indies were discouered) haue beene drawne out of such places which are rough and full, bare and fruitlesse: yet the taste of this money, makes these places pleasing and agreeable, yea, well inhabited with numbers of people. And although there be, as I haue said, many mynes of all kindes of metals as at the In∣dies, yet they vse none but those of gold and siluer, and as much quick-siluer as is necessarie to re∣fine their gold and siluer. They carry Iron thither from Spaine and China. As for Copper, the Indians haue drawne of it, and vsed it for their armes, the which were not vsually of Iron, but [ 50] of Copper. Since the Spaniards possessed the Indies, they haue drawne very little, neither doe they take the paines to seeke out these mynes, although there bee many busying themselues in the search of richer and more precious metals, wherein they spend their time and labour. They vse no other metals, as Copper, and Iron, but onely that which is sent them from Spaine, or that which remaines of the refining of gold and siluer. Wee finde not that the Indians in former times vsed gold, siluer, or any other metall for money, and for the price of things, but onely for orna∣ment,* 5.113 as hath beene said, whereof there was great quantitie in their Temples, Palaces, and Tombes, with a thousand kindes of vessels of gold and siluer, which they had. They vsed no gold nor siluer to trafficke or buy withall, but did change and trucke one thing for another, as Homer and Plinie report of the Ancients.* 5.114 They had some other things of greater esteeme, which went currant amongst them for price, and in stead of coine: and vnto this day this custome con∣tinues [ 60] amongst the Indians, as in the Prouinces of Mexico, in stead of money they vse Cacao, (which is a small fruit) and therewith buy what they will. In Peru they vse Coca, to the same end (the which is a leafe the Indians esteeme much) as in Paraguay, they haue stamps of Iron for

coine, and cotton wouen in Saint Croix, of the Sierre. Finally, the manner of the Indians traf∣ficke, and their buying and selling, was to exchange, and giue things for things: and although there were great Marts and famous Faires, yet had they no neede of money, nor of Brokers, for that euery one had learned what he was to giue in exchange for euery kinde of merchandise. Since the Spaniards entred, the Indians haue vsed gold and siluer to buy withall: and in the be∣ginning there was no coine, but siluer by weight was their price and money, as they report of the ancient Romans. Since, for a greater benefit, they haue forged coine in Mexico and Peru,* 5.115 yet vnto this day they haue not in the West Indies coyned any money of Copper or other metall, but onely of siluer and gold: for the richnesse of that Countrie hath not admitted nor receiued [ 10] such money as they call bullion, nor other kindes of alloy, which they vse in Italie, and in other Prouinces of Europe; Although in some Ilands of the Indies, as Saint Dominique, and Port Ricco, they vse coine of leather, which is square, the which are currant onely in those Ilands, hauing little siluer or gold. I say little, although there be much, for that no man digges it and refines it.* 5.116 But for that the riches of the Indies, and their manner to labour in the mynes, consists of gold, sil∣uer, and quick-siluer, I will speake something of these three metals, leauing the rest for this time.

Gold amongst other metals hath beene alwayes held the most excellent; and with reason, being the most durable and incorruptible of all others;* 5.117 for fire which consumes and diminisheth the rest, amends it, and brings it to perfection. Gold which hath often passed through the fire, keepes his colour, and is most fine and pure; which properly is called (as Plinie saith) Obris••, [ 20] whereof the Scripture makes so often mention and v••e, which consumeth all other metals (as the same Plinie saith) doth not any thing waste gold, nor yet hurt it, neither is it eaten, nor grow∣eth old. And although his substance and body bee firme and solid;* 5.118 yet doth it yeeld and bow wonderfully; the Beaters and Drawers of gold know well the force it hath to bee drawne out without breaking. All which things well considered, with other excellent properties, will giue men of iudgement to vnderstand, wherefore the holy Scripture doth compare Charitie to gold. To conclude, there is little neede to relate the excellencies thereof to make it more desirable.* 5.119 For the greatest excellencie it hath, is to be knowne (as it is) amongst men, for the supreme power and greatnesse of the World. Comming therefore to our subiect; at the Indies there is great a∣bundance of this metall, and it is well knowne by approued Histories, that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Peru did [ 30] not content themselues with great and small vessels of gold, as Pots, Cups, Goblets, and Fla∣gons; yea with Kowles or great Vessels, but they had Chaires also, and Litters of massie gold: and in their Temples they had set vp mayne Images of pure gold, whereof they finde some yet at Mexico, but not such store as when the first Conquerors came into the one and the other King∣dome, who found great treasure, and without doubt there was much more hidden in the earth by the Indians. It would seeme ridiculous to report that they haue made their horse shooes of siluer for want of Iron, and that they haue paid three hundred 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for a bottle of wine, and other strange things; and yet in truth this hath come to passe, yea and greater matters. They draw gold in those parts after three sorts: or at the least; I haue seene all three vsed.* 5.120 For ei∣ther they finde gold in graines, in powlder, or in stone.

[ 40] The most famous gold is that of Caranaua in Peru, and of Valdinia in Chille, for that is riseth with his alloy and perfection, which is twentie three Carrats and a halfe, and sometimes more. They make account likewise of the gold of Veragua to bee very fine. They bring much gold to Mexico from the Philippines, and China, but commonly it is weake and of base alloy. Gold 〈◊〉〈◊〉 commonly found mixt with Siluer or with Copper; but that which is mixed with siluer is commonly of fewer Carrats then that which is mixed with copper. If there be a fift part of sil∣uer, Plinie saith, it is then properly called Electrum,* 5.121 which hath the propertie to shine more at the light of the fire, then fine gold or fine siluer. That which is incorporate with copper, is com∣monly of a higher value. They refine powldred gold in basons, washing it in many waters, vn∣till the Sand falls from it, and the gold as most heauie remayneth in the bottome. They refine it [ 50] likewise with quick-siluer and strong water, for that the allum whereof they make this water hath the vertue to separate gold from drosse, or from other metals. After it is purified and mol∣ten, they make Bricks or small Barres to carry it vnto Spaine; for being in powlder, they cannot transport it from the Indies, for they can neither custome it, marke it, nor take say, vntill it bee molten. In the fleet where I came, which was in the yeere 1585. the declaration of the firme Land was of twelue Cassons or Chests of gold, euery Casson at the least weighed foure Arobes, that is a hundred weight; and a thousand fiftie and sixe Mates from new Spaine, which was for the King onely, besides that which came for Merchants and priuate men being registred; and much that came vnregistred. This may suffice touching the gold of the Indies, and now wee will speake of Siluer.

[ 60] Now we will shew how they discouer the mynes of Siluer, their veines, rootes, and begin∣nings whereof Iob speakes. And first I will say,* 5.122 that the reason why they giue siluer the second place among all other metals, is, for that it approcheth neerer to gold then any other, being more durable and lesse indamaged by the fire, and more mallable then any other: yea it passeth gold in brightnesse, beautie, and sound, the which is cleere, and agreeable, for the colour is more confor∣mable

and resembling the light, and the sound more piercing▪ more liuely, and more delicate. The mynes of siluer are commonly found in Mountaines and high Rocks very desart, although they haue sometimes beene found in Playnes and Champaines. There are two different kindes, the one they call stragling, the other fixed and setled. The stragling, are pieces of metall found in cer∣taine places, the which drawne a way, there is no more found. But the fixed veines, are those which haue a continuance in depth and length, like to great branches and armes of Trees; and when they finde any one of them, they commonly finde many in the same place. The manner to purge and refine siluer which the Indians haue vsed, was by melting, in dissoluing this masse of me∣tall by fire, which casts the earthly drosse apart, and by his force separates Siluer from Lead, Tin from Copper, and other metals mixt. To this end they did build small Furnaces in places where as the winde did commonly blow, and with Wood and Cole made their refining, the which Fur∣naces [ 10] in Peru they call Guayras. Since the Spaniards entred, besides this manner of refining which they vse to this day, they likewise refine siluer with quick-siluer, and draw more by this meanes then in refining it by fire. For there is some kind of siluer metall found which can by no meanes be purged and refined by fire, but onely with quick-siluer. But this kinde of metall is common∣ly poore and weake, the which vsually they finde in greatest abundance. They call that poore which yeelds least siluer, and great quantitie of other metall, and that rich which yeelds most sil∣uer. It is strange to see, not onely the difference betwixt the refining of metall by fire, and with∣out it by quick-siluer, but also that some of these metals, which are refined by the fire, cannot well be molten with any artificiall winde,* 5.123 as with bellowes; but when it is kindled and blowne with the naturall aire, or naturall winde. The metall of the mynes of Porco is easily refined with [ 20] bellowes, and that of the mynes of Potozi cannot bee molten with bellowes, but onely by the breath of their Guayras, which are small Furnaces vpon the sides of the Mountaines, built ex∣presly where the winde lies, within the which they melt this metall; and though it be hard to yeeld a reason for this difference, yet is it most certaine and approued by long experience: so as the greedie desire of this metall so much valued amongst men, hath made them seeke out a thou∣sand gentle inuentions and deuices, whereof we will hereafter make mention. The chiefe places of the Indies from whence they draw siluer, are new Spaine and Peru; but the mynes of Peru farre surpasse the rest; and amongst all others of the World, those of Potozi.

* 5.124The Mountaine or Hill of Potozi so famous, is situate in the Prouince of Charcas, in the King∣dome of Peru, distant from the Equinoctiall towards the South, or Pole Antartike, one and [ 30] twentie degrees and two thirds: so as it falls vnder the Tropicke, bordering vpon the burning Zone, and yet this Region is extremely cold, yea, more then old Castile in the Kingdome of Spaine, and more then Flanders it selfe, although by reason it should be hot or temperate, in re∣gard of the height and eleuation of the Pole where it is seated. The reason of this so cold a tem∣perature, is the height of the Mountaine, whereas cold and intemperate winds continually blow, especially that which they call Thoma••aui, which is boistrous and most cold. It raines most commonly in Iune, Iuly, and August. The ground and soile of this Mountaine is drie, cold, and very vnpleasant, yea altogether barren, which neither engenders nor brings forth any fruit, grasse, nor graine; it is naturally vnhabitable, for the intemperature of the Heauen, and the barrennesse of the Earth. But the force of siluer, which drawes vnto it the desire of all things, hath peopled [ 40] this Mountaine more then any other place in all these Kingdomes, making it so fruitfull of all kindes of meates, as there wants nothing that can be desired, yea, in great abundance; and al∣though there be nothing but what is brought by carriage, yet euery place abounds so with Fruit, Conserues, exquisite Wines, Silkes, and all other delicates, as it is not inferiour to any other part. This Mountaine is of colour darke red, and is in forme pleasing at the first sight, resembling per∣fectly the fashion of a Pauilion, or of a Sugar-loafe. It exceeds all other Hills and Mountaines a∣bout it in height. The way whereby they ascend, is very rough and vneuen, and yet they goe vp on horse-back. It is round at the top, and at the foot it hath a league in circuit. It containes from the top to the bottom 1680. common yards, the which reduced to the measure of Spanish leagues, makes a quarter of a league. At the foot of this Mountaine there is another small Hill that riseth [ 50] out of it, in the which there hath beene somtimes mynes of metall dispersed, which were found as it were in purses, and not in fixed or continued veines; yet were they very rich, though few in number. This small Rock was called by the Indians, Guayna Potozi, which is yong Potozi; at the foot wherof begins the dwellings of the Spaniards and Indians, which are come to the riches and worke of Potozi, which dwelling may containe some two leagues in circuit, and the greatest traf∣fick and cōmerce of all Peru is in this place. The mynes of this Mountaine were not digged nor discouered in the time of their Inguas, which were the Lords of Peru, before the Spaniards entred, although they had digged and opened the mynes of Porco, neer to Potozi, distant only six leagues.

An Indian called Gualpa, of the Nation of Chumbibilca, which is a Prouince of Cusco, going [ 60] one day to hunt for Venison, passing towards the West whither the beast was fled, hee began to runne vp against the Rocke, which at that time was couered and planted with certaine Trees they call Quinua, and with thicke bushes, and as he striued to get vp a way which was somewhat rough and vneasie, hee was forced to lay hold vpon a branch, which issued from a veine of a

siluer myne (which since they haue called Rich) which hee pulled vp, perceiuing in the hole or roote thereof, metall, the which he knew to be very good, by the experience hee had of the mynes of Porco: and after finding vpon the ground certaine pieces of metall, which lay broken and dispersed neere to this veine, being scarse well able to iudge thereof, for that the colour was spoyled and changed by the Sunne and raine; he carried it to Porco to trie by the Guayras (which is the triall of metall by fire) and hauing thereby found the great riches and his happy fortune, he secretly digged and drew metall out of this veine, not imparting it to any man, vntill that an Indian called Guanca, of the Valley of Xaura, which is vpon the borders of the Citie of Kings, who remayning at Porco neere vnto Gualpa of Chumbibilca, perceiued one day that hee made a refining, and that his Wedges and Bricks were greater then such as were vsually made in those [ 10] places: and also increasing in his expence of apparell, hauing till then liued but basely. For this reason, and for that the metall his Neighbour refined was different from that of Porco, hee thought to discouer this secret, and wrought so, that although the other kept it as secret as hee could, yet through importunitie hee was forced to carry him vnto the Rocke of Potozi, hauing enioyed this rich treasure full two moneths. And then Gualpa the Indian willed Guanca for his part to take a veine, which he had discouered neere to the rich veine, which at this day is cal∣led the veine of Diego Centeno, that was not lesse rich, but more hard to digge and to draw forth; and so by agreement they diuided betweene them the richest Rocke in the world. It chanced after, the Indian Guanca finding some difficultie to digge and draw forth his metall, being most hard, and the other Gualpa refusing to impart any of his myne vnto him, they fell [ 20] at debate; so as Guanca of Xaura grieued therewith, and with some other discontents, dis∣couered this secret vnto his Master called Villaroel a Spaniard, who then remayned at Porco. This Villaroel desirous to vnderstand the truth, went to Potozi, and finding the riches his Ya∣nacona or seruant had discouered vnto him, caused the Indian Guanca to be inrolled, vnderta∣king with him the said veine, which was called Centeno, they call it Vndertaking, that is as much as to note and marke the myne, and so much ground in circuit for him, which the Law graunts vnto those that discouer any myne, or vnto those that digge them: by meanes where∣of, hauing discouered them to the Iustice, they remayned Lords of the myne, to digge and draw forth the siluer, as being their owne, paying onely their duties vnto the King, which is [ 30] a fift part. So as the first discouerie and inregistring of the mynes of Potozi, was the one and twentieth of Aprill, in the yeere of our Lord 1545. in the Territorie of Porco, by the said Vil∣laroel a Spaniard, and Guanca an Indian. Presently after they discouered another veine, which they called the Veine of Tinne, the which is very rich, although it be rough and very painfull to worke in, the metall being as hard as flint. Since the thirtie day of August in the same yeere 1545. the veine called Mendi••ta was inrolled, and these are the foure principall veines of Po∣tozi. They say of the rich veine▪ the first that was discouered, that the metall lay aboue the ground the height of a Lance, like vnto Rocks, raysing the superficies of the Earth, like vnto a crest of three hundred foot long, and thirteene foot broad, and that this remayned bare and vncouered by the deluge, this veine hauing resisted the violence and force of the water, as the hardest part. The metall was so rich as it was halfe siluer, and this veine continued in his [ 40] bountie fiftie or threescore Stades (which is the height of a man) and then it sayled. Present∣ly after that the discouerie of Potozi was knowne in Peru; many Spaniards, and the most part of the Bourgeois of the Siluer Citie, which is eighteene leagues from Potozi, came thither to take mynes: yea, there came many Indians from diuers Prouinces, especially the Guayzadores of Porco, so as within a short space it was the best peopled habitation of all the Kingdome.

When as the Licenciate Pollo gouerned that Prouince, the which was many yeeres after the discouerie of this Mountaine, they did euery Saturday enter a hundred and fiftie and two hun∣dred thousand pieces, whereof the Kings fift amounted to thirtie and fortie thousand pieces; and for euery yeere a million and a halfe, or little lesse. So as according to that computation they did draw euery day from this myne thirtie thousand pieces,* 5.125 whereof there came to the King for [ 50] his fift, sixe thousand pieces a day.

There is yet another thing to bee spoken of, to shew the riches of Potozi, that the account which hath beene made, was onely of siluer that was marked and customed. And it is well knowne in Peru, that they haue long vsed siluer in these Realmes, which they call Currant, which was neither marked nor customed. And they hold it for certaine which know these mynes, that in these dayes, the greatest part of siluer drawne at Potozi, was not customed, and this had course amongst the Indians, and much amongst the Spaniards, as I haue seene continued to my time; so as it may appeare, the third part of the riches of Potozi, yea the one halfe came not to light, neither was it customed. There is yet a more notable consideration, in that which [ 60] Plinie saith, they had digged a fifteene hundred pases in the myne of Bebello;* 5.126 and that continu∣ally they found water, which is the greatest hinderance they haue to draw forth their metall. But in this of Potozi, although they haue digged two hundred stades or heights of a man in depth; yet did they neuer finde any water, which is the greatest happinesse of this Mountaine. But the mynes of Porco, whose metall is good and very rich, are at this day left for the discom∣moditie

of water, which they haue found in their worke; for they are two insupportable la∣bours in searching of the metall; first, to digge and breake the Rocks, and then to draw out the water all together. The first of them, that is, to cut through the Rocks, is paine enough; yea very hard and excessiue. Finally, at this day the King receiues for his fift yeerly, from the mynes of Potozi, a million of siluer, besides the wealth that growes by quick-siluer, and other Royall prerogatiues, which is a great treasure. Some men of iudgement hauing cast vp the accounts, say, that what hath beene brought into the custome House of Potozi, vnto the yeere of our Lord 1585. amounteth vnto a hundred thousand millions of pieces of Essay, whereof euery piece is worth thirteene Rials and a fourth part, not reckoning the siluer which hath beene carried away without custome, or that hath beene entred in other Royall custome houses, or the siluer that [ 10] hath beene wrought in the Countrie, which is not entred, the which is innumerable, although the first Registers of Entries are not so exactly kept as at this day; for that in the beginning and first discoueries, they made their receit by Romans, so great was their abundance.

But by the instructions and remembrances of Don Francisco de Toledo the Vice-roy, in the yeere of our Sauiour Christ 1574. they finde seuentie and sixe millions to that yeere: and from that yeere to eightie fiue inclusiue, it appeares by the Royall Registers, there were thirtie fiue millions more entred. They sent this accompt to the Vice-roy from Potozi, in the yeere I haue mentioned,* 5.127 being then in Peru; and since the wealth that hath come from Peru by ship, hath amounted to much more. In that fleet where I came in the yeere 1587. there were ele∣uen millions transported in the two fleetes of Peru and Mexico, whereof two thirds were in that of Peru, and almost the one halfe for the King. [ 20]

This Rocke of Potozi, containes as I haue said, foure principall veines, that is, the Rich veine,* 5.128 that of Centeno, that of Tinne, and that of Mendi••ta. All these veines are of the East part of the Mountaine, as looking to the Sunne rising, for on the West part there is not any. The foresaid veines runne from North to South, which is from Pole to Pole. In the largest place they haue sixe foot, and in the narrowest a span breadth. There are others of diuers fashions that runne out of the said veines; like as out of the great armes of Trees, there commonly sprout forth lesse. Euery veine hath diuers mynes which are parts and portions of the same, distinct and diuided betwixt diuers Masters, by whose names they are commonly called. The great myne containes fourscore yards, neither may it be more by the Law, and the least containes [ 30] foure. All these mynes are at this day very deepe. In the Rich myne they reckon seuentie eight mynes, which are eightie yards deepe, or a hundred stades or height of a man, and in some pla∣ces two hundred. In the veine of Centeno are foure and twentie mynes, whereof some are se∣uentie or eightie stades deepe, and so of the other veines of this Mountaine. For a remedie to this great profunditie, they haue inuented mynes, which they call Soccabones, which are caues or vents made at the foote of the Mountaine, the which goe crossing till they incounter with the veines: for we must vnderstand, that although the veines runne North to South, as hath beene said, yet is it in declining from the top to the foote of the Mountaine, which may be as they beleeue by coniecture, aboue twelue hundred stades. And by this account, although the mynes extend in such a profunditie, yet there remaines sixe times as much space vnto the bot∣tome [ 40] or roote, the which they say, are most rich and aboundant, as the body and spring of all veines. Although vnto this day we haue seene the contrarie by experience, for the higher the veine is to the superficies of the earth, the more rich they finde it: and the deeper it goes, the poorer it is, and of the baser aloy. They then inuented the Soccabons, by which they enter to worke in the mynes very easily, with lesse charge, paine, and danger. They haue eight foot in breadth, and a stade in height, the which they shut with doores. By them they drawe forth their metall very easily, paying to the proprietarie of the Soccabon, the fift part of all the metall they draw forth.* 5.129 There are nine alreadie made, and others are begun. They were nine and twentie yeeres in making of one Soccabon, as they call it, of the venome that flowes from the rich veine. It was begun in the yeere 1550. the eleuenth yeere of the discouerie, and [ 50] was ended in the yeere 1585. the eleuenth of August. This Soccabon crossed the rich veine thirtie fiue stades from the roote or spring, and from thence where it met to the mouth of the myne, were a hundred thirtie fiue stades. So as they must descend all this depth to labour in the myne. This Soccabon containes from his mouth vnto the veine of Crusero as they call it, two hundred and fiftie yards,* 5.130 in which worke were spent nine and twentie yeeres, whereby wee may see what great paines men take to draw siluer out of the bowels of the earth. They labour in these mynes in continuall darknesse and obscuritie, without knowledge of day or night. And foras∣much as those places are neuer visited with the Sunne; there is not only continuall darknesse, but also an extreme cold, with so grosse an aire contrarie to the disposition of man, so as, such as newly enter, are sicke as they at Sea. The which happened to me in one of these mynes, where I felt a paine at the heart, and beating of the stomacke. Those that labour therein, vse candles [ 60] to light them, diuiding their worke in such sort, as they that worke in the day, rest by the night, and so they change. The metall is commonly hard, and therefore they breake it with ham∣mers, splitting and hewing it by force, as if they were fl••nts. After they carry vp this metall

vpon their shoulders, by Ladders of three branches, made of Neats leather twisted like pieces of wood, which are crossed with staues of wood; so as by euery one of these Ladders they mount and descend together. They are ten stades long a piece: and at the end of one beginnes another of the same length, euery Ladder beginning and ending at plat-formes of wood, where there are seates to rest them, like vnto galleries, for that there are many of these Ladders to mount by one at the end of another. A man carries ordinarily the weight of two Arrobes of metall vpon his shoulders, tied together in a cloth in manner of a skip,* 5.131 and so mount they three and three. He that goes before carries a candle tied to his thumbe: for (as it is said) they haue no light from Heauen, and so goe they vp the Ladder holding it with both their hands, to mount so great a height, which commonly is aboue a hundred and fiftie stades: a fearfull thing, [ 10] and which breedes an amazement to thinke vpon it, so great is the desire of Siluer, that for the gaine thereof, men endure any paines. And truly, it is not without reason, that Plinie treating of this subiect, exclaimes and sayes thus, Wee enter euen into the bowels of the Earth, and goe hunting after riches, euen to the place of the damned.* 5.132 And after in the same Booke hee saith: Those ihat seeke for metals, performe workes more then Giants, making holes and caues in the depth of the Earth, piercing Mountaynes so deepe by the light of Candles, whereas the day and the night are alike, and in many moneths they see no day. So as often the walls of their mynes fall, smo∣thering many of them that labour therein. And afterwards hee addes, They pierce the hard Rocke with hammers of Iron waighing one hundred and fiftie pounds, and draw out the metall vpon their shoulders, labouring day and night, one deliuering his charge to another, and all in darknesse, onely the [ 20] last sees the light: with Wedges and Hammers they breake the Flints, how hard and strong soeuer, for the hunger of gold is yet more sharpe and strong.

The veines as I haue said, where they finde siluer, runne betwixt two Rocks,* 5.133 which they call The Chase, whereof the one is commonly as hard as flint, and the other soft and easie to breake. This metall is not alwayes equall, and of the same bountie, for you shall find in one and the same veine, one sort of metall very rich, which they call Cacilla, or Tacana, from which they draw much siluer; and another is poore, from whence they draw little. The most rich metall of this Mountaine, is of the colour of Amber, and the next is that which inclines to blacke. There is o∣ther somewhat red, and other of the colour of ashes▪ finally, of diuers and sundrie colours, which seeme to such as know them not, to bee sinnes of no value. But the myners doe presently know [ 30] his qualitie and perfection, by certaine signes and small veines they finde in them. They carry all this metall they draw out of these mynes, vpon Indian sheepe, which serue them as Asses to carry it to the Mills; the richest metall is refined by melting in those small Furnaces, which they call Guayras, for that is most leadie; by reason whereof, it is most subiect to melt, and for the better melting thereof, the Indians cast in a matter, they call Soroche, which is a metall full of Lead. The metall being in these Furnaces, the filth and earthie drosse, through the force of the fire, remaines in the bottome, and the Siluer and Lead melt; so as the Siluer swimmes vpon the Lead, vntill it bee purified; then after they refine the siluer many times, after this manner of melting. They haue vsually drawne out of one Quintall of metall, thirtie, fortie, and fiftie pieces [ 40] of siluer, and yet I haue seene some most excellent that haue beene shewne me, where they haue drawne in the melting two hundred, yea two hundred and fiftie pieces of siluer of a Quintall of metall; a rare wealth, and almost incredible, if we had not seene the triall thereof by fire, but such metals are very rare. The poorest metall is that which yeelds two, three, fiue, or sixe pieces, or little more. This metall hath commonly little Lead, but is drie, and therefore they cannot refine it with fire. And for this reason in Potozi, there was great store of these poore metals, whereof they made no great account, but were reiected like straw, and as the skum of the good metall, vntill they found meanes to refine it by quick-siluer, whereby the skum they called O∣quiache was of great profit, for the quick-siluer by a strange and wonderfull propertie, purifies the siluer, and is apt for these metals which are drie and poore, wherein they consume lesse quick-sil∣uer [ 50] then in the richer: for the richer they are, the more need of quick-siluer they haue. At this day the most vsuall manner of refining in Potozi, is by quick-siluer, as also in the mynes of Caca∣tecas, and others of new Spaine. There were in old time vpon the sides and tops of Potozi, aboue sixe thousand Guayras, which are small Furnaces where they melt their metall, the which were placed like lights (a pleasant sight to behold by night) casting a light afarre off like a flame of fire. But at this day there are not aboue two thousand, for that (as I haue said) they vse little melting, but refine it by quick-siluer, the which is the greatest profit. And for that the proper∣ties of quick-siluer are admirable; and that this manner of refining of siluer is remarkable, I will discourse of Quick-siluer, of the Mynes and Worke, and what is requisite for that subiect.

Quick-siluer, so called by the Latines, for that it runnes and slides suddenly from place to place, [ 60] amongst all other metals hath great and wonderfull vertues. The first is, although it bee a true metall, yet is it not hard, neither hath it any certaine forme nor subsistance like to other metals, but is liquid, not like vnto gold and siluer molten, but of his owne proper nature; and although it be a liquor, yet is it more heauie then any other metall: and therefore all others swim aboue and sinke not to the bottome, being more light. I haue seene two pounds of Iron put into a

barrell of quick-siluer, the which did swimme about like vnto Wood or Corke vpon the Wa∣ter.* 5.134 Plinie giues an exception hereunto, saying, That gold alone doth sinke and not swimme aboue it. I haue not seene the experience; but it may bee this growes, by reason that quick-siluer by nature doth inuiron gold, and couers it, which is one of the most important proper∣ties it hath;* 5.135 for it ioynes with gold in a strange manner, it seekes it where it lyes, and inui∣rons it in such sort, as it doth distinguish and separate it from any other body or metall where∣with it is mixt: for this reason such take gold as will preserue themselues from the dangers and discommodities of quick-siluer. They haue vsed a remedie to those (in whose eares they had put quick-siluer, to cause them to die secretly) to put little plates of gold into their eares (for that Gold hath the vertue to draw out Mercurie) and after they drew out these plates all white with the quick-siluer, it did sticke vnto them. Being one day at Madril, I went to see the [ 10] exquisite workes which Iacomo de Treco. (a rare worke-man of Millan) made for Saint Lau∣rence the Royall, it was my hap to be there one day, when as they gilded certaine pieces of a countertable of brasse, which is done with quick-siluer; and for that the fume of Mercurie is mortall, he told me that the worke-men preserued themselues from this venome, by swallow∣ing a double Duckat of gold rolled vp; the which being in the stomacke, drawes vnto it all the quick-siluer that enters in fume by the Eares, Eyes, Nostrils, and Mouth, and by this meanes freed themselues from the danger of quick-siluer, which the gold gathered in the sto∣macke, and after cast out by the excrements: a thing truly worthy of admiration. After the quick-siluer hath purified and purged gold from all other metals and mixtures, hee is likewise separated from the gold his friend by the heate of the fire, the which purifies it from all quick-siluer.* 5.136 [ 20] Plinie sayes, that by a certaine arte and inuention they did separate gold from quick-siluer. It seemes to me the Ancients had no knowledge to refine siluer by quick-siluer, which at this day is the greatest vse, and chiefe profit of quick-siluer; for that he sayes plainly, that quick-siluer ioynes with no other metall but with gold; and when hee makes mention of refi∣ning of siluer, hee speakes onely but of the manner of melting; whereby wee may inferre that the Ancients had no knowledge of this secret. In truth, though there be a league and simpathy betwixt gold and quick-siluer, yet where as the Mercurie findes no gold, it ioynes with sil∣uer, though not in the like manner as with gold; but in the end, it doth clense and purge it from Earth, Copper, and Lead, amongst the which the siluer growes, without any neede of fire to melt it: yet must they vse fire to separate it from the siluer, as I will shew hereafter. [ 30] Quick-siluer holds no account of other metals, but of Gold and Siluer; but contrariwise, it doth corrupt them, force and consume them, and flyeth from them as much as may bee. The which is likewise admirable, and for this cause they put it in earthen vessels, or in beasts skins. For if it bee put in vessels of Copper, of Iron, or other metall, it presently pierceth and cor∣rupts them. And therefore Plinie calleth it the poyson of all things, for that it consumes and spoiles all. Wee finde quick-siluer in the graues of dead men, which after it hath consumed the bodies, comes forth pure and whole. There hath beene likewise found in the bones and mar∣row of Men and Beasts, who hauing receiued it in fume by the mouth and nostrils, congeales within them and pierceth euen vnto the bones. Therefore it is a dangerous thing to frequent so perillous and mortall a creature. It hath another propertie, which is, to runne and make a hun∣dred [ 40] thousand small drops, whereof not one is lost, bee they neuer so little, but they returne euery way to their liquor. It is almost incorruptible, hauing nothing in a manner that may consume it. And therefore Plinie calls it the eternall sweat. It hath yet another propertie, that although it doth separate Gold from Copper, and all other metals, yet they that will gild Cop∣per, Brasse, or Siluer, vse quick-siluer as the meanes of this vnion; for with the helpe thereof they gild metals. Amongst all the wonders of this strange liquor that seemes to mee most wor∣thy obseruation, that although it bee the weightiest thing in the world, yet is it conuerted in∣to the lightest of the world, which is smoake, and suddenly the same smoake which is so light a thing, turnes againe into so heauie a substance, as is the proper liquor of quick-siluer, where∣into it is dissolued; for this smoake encountring the metall on high, being a solid body, or [ 50] comming into a cold Region, suddenly it thickens and is conuerted into quick-siluer, and if you set him once againe to the fire, he doth likewise returne into smoake, to be resolued againe in∣to quick-siluer.

Quick-siluer is found in a kinde of stone, which doth likewise yeeld Vermillion, which the Ancients called Minium,* 5.137 and at this day they call the Images of crystall Miniades, which are painted with quick-siluer. The Ancients made great account of this Minium or Vermillion, holding it for a sacred colour, as Plinie reports, saying, That the Romans were accustomed to paint the face of Iupiter, and the bodies of those that triumphed in Ethiopia: yea, their Idols and their Gouernours likewise had their faces coloured with this Minium. And this Vermillion was [ 60] so esteemed at Rome (which they brought onely from Spaine, where they had many pits and mynes of quick-siluer, which continue there to this day) that the Romans suffered it not to be re∣fined in Spaine, lest they should steale some of it, but they carried it to Rome, sealed vp in a masse as they drew it out of the myne, and after refined it. They did yeerly bring from Spaine, especially

from Andalusie, about ten thousand pound weight, which the Romans valued as an infinite treasure, I haue reported all this out of that Author, to the end that those which doe see what passeth at this day in Peru, may haue the content to know what chanced in former ages, among the migh∣tiest Lords of the world. I speake for the Inguas Kings of Peru, and for the naturall Indians thereof, which haue laboured and digged long in these Mines of Quick-siluer, not knowing what Quick-siluer was, seeking onely for Cinabrium or Vermillion, which they call Limpi, the which they esteeme much, for that same effect that Plinie reports of the Romans and Ethiopians, that is, to paint the face and bodies of themselues and their Idols: the like hath beene much practised by the Indians, especially when they went to the warres, and vse it at this day in their feasts and dancing, which they call slubbering, supposing that their faces and visages so slubbered, [ 10] did much terrifie, and at this day they hold it for an ornament and beautifying; for this cause there were strange workes of Mines in the Mountaines of Guancauilca, which are in Peru, neere to the Citie of Guamangua, out of the which they drew this Mettall: it is of such a manner,* 5.138 that if at this day they enter by the caues or Soccabones, which the Indians made in those dayes, they loose themselues, finding no passage out: but they regarded not Quick-siluer, which natural∣ly is in the same substance or mettall of Vermillion, neither had they knowledge of any such matter.

The Indians were not alone for so long a time without the knowledge of this treasure, but likewise the Spaniards, who vntill the yeare 1566. and 1567. (at such time as the licentiate Ca∣stro gouerned in Peru) discouered not the Mines of Quick-siluer, which happened in this manner. [ 20] A man of iudgement called Henrique Guarces, a Portugall borne,* 5.139 hauing a piece of this coloured Mettall, as I haue said, which the Indians call Limpi, with which they paint their faces, as he beheld it well, found it to be the same which they call Vermillion in Castile: and for that hee knew well that Vermillion was drawne out of the same mettall that Quick-siluer was, he con∣iectured these Mines to be of Quick-siluer, went to the place whence they drew this Mettall, to make triall thereof. The which he found true, and in this sort the Mines of Palcas in the territorie of Guamangua, being discouered, great numbers of men went thither to draw out Quick-siluer, and so to carry it to Mexico, where they refine Siluer by the meanes of Quick-sil∣uer, wherewith many are inriched. This Countrie of Mines which they call Guancauilca, was then peopled with Spaniards and Indians that came thither, and come still to worke in these [ 30] Mines of Quick-siluer, which are in great numbers, and very plentifull: but of all these Mines, that which they call d' Amador de Cabrera, or of Saints, is goodly and notable. It is a Rocke of most hard Stone, interlaced all with Quick-siluer, and of that greatnesse, that it extends aboue fourescore Vares or yards in length, and fortie in breadth: in which Mine they haue many pits, and ditches, of threescore and tenne stades deepe, so as three hundred men may well worke to∣gether; such is the capacitie thereof. This Mine was discouered by an Indian of Amador of Ca∣brera, called Nauincopa of the Village of Acoria, the which Amador of Cabrera caused to be registred in his name. He was in suite against the Procurer fiscall, but the vsufruite was adiudg∣ed to him by sentence as the discouerer. Since he sold his interest to another, for two hundred and fiftie thousand Ducates; and afterwards thinking he had bin deceiued in the sale, he com∣menced [ 40] an action against the buyer, being worth, as they say, aboue fiue hundred thou∣sand Ducates; yea, some hold it to be worth a Million of Gold: a rare thing to see a Mine of that wealth.

When as Don Francisco of Toledo gouerned in Peru, there was one which had bin in Mexico, and obserued how they refined Siluer with Mercury, called Pero Fernandes de Valesco, who offred to refine Siluer at Potozi, with Mercury: and hauing made triall thereof in the yeare 1571. per∣formed it with credit; then began they to refine Siluer at Potozi with Quick-siluer, which they transported from Guancauelicqua, which was a goodly helpe for the Mines; for by the meanes of Quick-siluer they drew an infinite quantitie of mettall from these Mines, whereof they made no accompt, the which they called Scrapings. For as it hath beene said, the Quick-siluer purifies [ 50] the Siluer, although it be drie, poore, and of base alloy, which cannot be done by melting in the fire. The Catholike King drawes from it Quick-siluer mines, without any charge or hazard, al∣most foure hundred thousand pieces of a Mine, the which are foureteene rials a peec••, or little lesse, besides the rights that rise in Potozi, where it is imployed, the which is a great riches. They doe yearely, one with another, draw from these Mines of Guancauilca, eight thousand quintals of Quick-siluer, yea and more.

Let vs now speake how they draw out Quick-siluer, and how they refine Siluer therewith.* 5.140 They take the stone or mettall where they finde the Quick-siluer, the which they put into the fire in pots of earth well luted, being well beaten, so as this mettall or stone comming to melt [ 60] by the heate of the fire, the Quick-siluer separates it selfe, and goes forth in exhalation, and sometimes euen with the smoake of the fire, vntill it incounters some body where it staies and congeales, and if it passe vp higher, without meeting of any hard substance, it mounts vp vntill it be cold, and then congealed, it fals downe againe. When the melting is finished, they vn∣stop the pots and draw forth the mettall, sometimes staying vntill it be very cold, for if there

remained any fume or vapour, which should incounter them that should vnstop the pots, they were in danger of death, or to be benummed of their limbes, or at the least to loose their teeth. And for that they spend an infinitie quantitie of wood, in the melting of these mettals, a Miller called Rodrigo de Tores found out a profitable inuention, which was, to gather certaine straw which growes throughout all those Mountaines of Peru, the which they call Ycho, it is like vn∣to a hard reede wherewith they make their fire. It is a strange thing to see the force which this straw hath to melt and dissolue these mettals, the which fals out, as Plinie saies, that there is gold which melts more easily with the flame of straw, then with hot burning coales. They put the Quick-siluer thus molten into skinnes, for that it keepes best in leather, and in this sort they lay it into the Kings store-house, foom whence they carrie it by Sea to Ariqua, and so to Potozi [ 10] by Land vpon their sheepe. There is yeerely spent in Potozi for the refining of Mettals, about six or seuen thousand quintals of Quick-siluer,* 5.141 besides that they draw from the Plates (which is the earth or drosse of the first washings of these Mettals, which are made in caldrons.) The which plates they burne in their furnaces, to draw out the Quick-siluer which remaines in them: and there are a••oue fiftie of these Furnaces in the Citie of Potozi, and in ••arpaya. The quantitie of mettals which they refine, (as some men of experience haue made the account) doth amount yearely to aboue three hundred thousand quintals, from the earth and drosse whereof being molt and refined, they may draw yearely aboue two thousand quintals of Quick-siluer. We must vnderstand there are diuers sorts of mettals, for some yeelde much Siluer, and waste little Quick-siluer: others consume much Quick-siluer, and yeelde little Siluer: and there are others which consume much Quick-siluer, and yeeldes much Siluer; and others that consume little [ 20] Quick-siluer, and also yeelde little Siluer: and as men incounter in these mettals, so they grow rich or poore in their trafficke. Although commonly the rich mettall yeeldes much Siluer, and consumes much Quick-siluer; and likewise that which is poore, yeeldes little Siluer, and con∣sumes as little Mercurie.* 5.142 They first beate and grinde the mettall very small, with hammers and other instruments, which beate this Stone like vnto tanne Mils, and being well beaten, they fearce it in a copper fearce, making the poulder as small and fine, as if it were horse haire: these fearces being well fitted, doe fift thirtie quintals in a day and a night; then they put the poulder of the mettall into the vessels vpon furnaces, whereas they anoint it and mortifie it with brine, putting to euery fiftie quintals of poulder, fiue quintals of Salt. And this they doe for that the [ 30] Salt seperates the earth and filth, to the end the Quick-siluer may the more easily draw the Sil∣uer vnto it. After they put Quick-siluer into a peece of Holland and presse it out vpon the met∣tall, which goes forth like a dewe, alwaies turning and stirring the mettall, to the end it may be well incorporate.

Before the inuention of these furnaces of fire, they did often mingle their mettall with Quick-siluer, in great troughes, letting it settle some daies, and did then mixe it, and stir it againe, vn∣till they thought all the Quick-siluer were well incorporate with the Siluer, the which conti∣nued twentie daies and more, and at the least nine daies. Since they discouered (as the desire to get is diligent,) that to shorten the time fire did much helpe: to incorporate Siluer the sooner with Quick-siluer, they inuented these furnaces, whereon they set vessels to put in their mettall, [ 40] with Salt and Quick-siluer, and vnderneath they put fire by little and little, in furnaces made for the nonce vnderneath; so as in fiue or six daies the Quick-siluer is incorporate with the Sil∣uer. And when they finde that the Mercurie hath done his part, and assembled all the Siluer, lea∣uing nothing behinde, but is well imbrued as a Spunge doth water, diuiding it from the Earth, Lead, and Copper, with the which it is engendered. Then after they seperate it likewise from the Quick-siluer, the which they doe in this sort; they put the Mettall in Caldrons, and vessels full of water, where with certaine wheeles they turne the mettall round about, as if they should make Mustard, and so the earth and drosse goes from the Mettall with the water that runnes away: The Siluer and Quick-siluer as most ponderous remaining in the bottome; the Mettall which remaines, is like vnto Sand: then they take it out and wash it againe in great platters of [ 50] wood, or keelers full of water, still drawing the earth from it, vntill they leaue the Siluer and Quick-siluer well clensed. There slippes away also some small portion of Siluer and Quick-sil∣uer with the earth and drosse, which they call washings, the which they after wash againe and draw out the remainder. When the Siluer and Quick-siluer are clensed and begin to shine, and that there remaines no earth, they put all the Mettall into a cloth, which they straine out very forcibly, so as all the Quick-siluer passeth out, being not incorporate with the Siluer, and the rest remaines as a loafe of Siluer, like to a marke of Almonds pressed to draw oyle. And being thus pressed, the remainder containes but the sixt part in Siluer, and fiue in Mercurie. So as if there remaines a marke of threescore pounds, ten are of Siluer, and fiftie of Mercurie. Of these markes they make pinnes (as they call them) like pine apples, or sugar loaues, hollow within, the which they commonly make of a hundred pound weight; then to separate the Siluer from the Quick-siluer, [ 60] they put it into a violent fire, which they couer with an earthen vessell, like to the mold of a Sugar-loafe, or vnto a capuchon or hood, the which they couer with coales, and set fire vn∣to it; whereby the Quick-siluer exhals in smoake, the which striking against the capuchon of

earth, it thickens and distils, like vnto the smoake of a pot couered; and by a pipe like vnto a limbecke, they receiue the Quick-siluer which distils, the Siluer remaining without changing the forme, but in weight it is diminished fiue parts of that it was, and is spungious, the which is worthy the obseruation. Of two of these loaues they make one barre of Siluer, in weight sixtie fiue or sixtie six markes: and in this sort they carrie it to the touch, custome, and marke. Siluer drawne with Mercurie, is so fine,* 5.143 that it neuer abates of two thousand three hundred and foure∣score of alloy, and it is so excellent, that the worke-men are enforced to alay it, putting some mixture to it, as they doe likewise in their Mints, whereas their monie is stampt. Siluer indures all these martyrdomes (if we may so call it) to be refined, the which if we consider well, it is a [ 10] body framed where they grinde, fift, kneade, lay the leuen, and bake the Siluer: besides all this, they wash it and wash it againe; they bake it and bake it againe, induring the pestels, ••iues, troughes, furnaces, caldrons, presses: and finally, by the water and fire. I speake this, for that seeing this art in Potozi, I did consider what the Scripture speakes of the iust,* 5.144 Colabit ••os & pur∣gabit quasi argentum: And that which they speake in another part. Sicut argentum purgatum terra, purgatum septuplum. So as to purifie Siluer, to refine and clense it from the earth and stone where it engenders, they purge and purifie it seuen times: for in effect it passeth their hands se∣uen times, yea oftner, vntill it remaines pure and fine; so is it in the word of God, where the soules must be purified, that shall inioy the heauenly perfection.

To conclude this subiect of Siluer and of Mettals, there remaines yet two things to speake of,* 5.145 [ 20] the one is of their Engins and Mils, the other of their essay or triall: I haue said before, how they grinde their Mettall: for the receiuing of the Quick-siluer, which is done with diuers in∣struments and Engins, some with Horses like vnto hand-mil••, others like Water-mils; of which two sorts there are great numbers. But for that the water they doe vse commonly, is but of raine, whereof they haue not sufficient but three months in the yeare, December, Ianuary, and February: for this reason they haue made Lakes and standing Pooles, which containe in circuite about a thousand and six hundred rods, and in depth three stades; there are seuen with their sluces: so as when they haue neede of any water, they raise vp a sluce, from whence runnes a little streame of water, the which they stop vpon holy-dayes. And when the Lakes and Pooles doe fill, and that the yeare abounds with raine, their grinding doth then continue six or seuen [ 30] moneths; so as euen for Siluer sake men desire a good yeare of raine in Potozi, as they doe in other places for bread. There are some other Engins in Tarapaya, which is a valley three or foure leagues distant from Potozi, whereas there runnes a Riuer as in other parts. The difference of these Engins is, that some goe with six pestels, some with twelue, and others with foureteene. They grinde and beate the Mettall in Morters, labouring day and night; and from thence they carry it to be sifted, vpon the bankes of the brooke of Potozi. There are fortie eight Water-mils, of eight, ten, and twelue pestels, and foure on the other side, which they call Tanacogu••gno; in the Citie of Tarapaya, there are two and twentie Engins all vpon the water; besides there are thirtie goe with Horses in Potozi, and many others in diuers parts, so great the desire of man is to get Siluer, which is tried by deputies appointed by the King.

[ 40] To giue the alloy to euerie piece, they carrie the bars of Siluer vnto the Assay Master, who giue to euery one his number, for that they carrie many at once, hee cuts a small peece of euerie one, the which he weighs iustly, and puts them into a Cruset, which is a small vessell made of burnt bones beaten; after he placeth euery crusible in his order in the furnace, giuing them a violent fire, then the Mettall melteth, and that which is lead, goes into smoake, and the cop∣per and tinne dissolues, the Siluer remaining most fine, of the colour of fire. It is a strange thing, that being thus refined, although it be liquid and molten, yet it neuer spils, were the mouth of the crusible turned downewards; but it remaineth fixed, without the losse of a droppe. The Assay Master knoweth by the colour and other signes, when it is refined, then doth he draw the crusibles from the fire, and weighes euery peece curiously, obseruing what euery one wants of [ 50] his weight; for that which is of high alloy, wastes but little, and that which is baser, dimi∣nisheth much; and according to the waste, he sees what alloy he beares, according to the which he markes euery bar punctually. Their ballance and weights are so delicate, and their graines so small, as they cannot take them vp with the hand, but with a small paire of pincers: and this triall they make by candle-light, that no ayre might mooue the ballance. For of this little the price of the whole barre dependeth. In trueth it is a very delicate thing, and requires a great dexteritie.

[ 60]

§. V. Of Emeralds, Pearles, Indian Bread, Trees, Fruites, Flowers naturall, and carried thither from Spaine.

IT shall not be from the purpose, to speake something of Emeralds, both for that it is a precious thing▪ as Gold and Siluer, as also that they take their beginning from Mines and Mettals,* 5.146 as Plinie reports. The Emerald hath bin in old time in great esteeme, as the same Author writes, giuing it the third place amongst all Iewels and precious stones, that is, next to the Diamond and Pearle. At this day they doe not so much esteeme the [ 10] Emerald, nor the Pearle, for the great abundance brought of these two sorts from the Indies; one∣ly the Diamond holds the principalitie, the which cannot be taken from it. Next, the Rubies come in price and other Stones, which they hold more precious then the Emerald. Men are so desirous of singularities and rare things, that what they see to be common, they doe not esteeme. They report of a Spaniard, who being in Italie when the Indies were first discouered, shewed an Emerald to a Lapidary,* 5.147 who asking him the value thereof, after he had well viewed it, being of an excellent lustre and forme, he prized it at a hundred Duckets: he then shewed him another greater then it, which he valued at three hundred Duckats. The Spaniard drunke with this dis∣course, carried him to his lodging, shewing him a Casket full. The Italian seeing so great a num∣ber of Emeralds, said vnto him, Sir, these are well worth a crowne a peece. The Kings of Mexi∣co [ 20] did much esteeme them; some did vse to pierce their nostrils, and hang therein an excellent Emerald: they hung them on the visages of their Idols. The greatest store is found in the new Kingdome of Grenado, and Peru, neere vnto Manta and Port Vieil. There is towards that place a soile which they call,* 5.148 the Land of Emeralds, for the knowledge that they haue of abundance to be there: and yet vnto this day they haue not conquered that Land. The Emeralds grow in stones like vnto Christall; I haue seene them in the same stone, fashioned like a veine, and they seeme by little and little to thicken and refine. I haue seene some that were halfe white, and halfe greene; others all white, and some greene and very perfit. I haue seene some of the big∣nesse of a Nut, and there haue bin some greater found: but I haue not knowne that in our time [ 30] they haue found any of the forme and bignesse of the plat or Iewell they haue at Genes, the which they esteeme (and with reason) to be a Iewell of great price, and no relique; yet with∣out comparison,* 5.149 the Emerald which Theophrastus speakes of, which the King of Babylon presen∣ted to the King of Aegypt, surpasseth that of Genes; it was foure cubits long, and three broad, and they say, that in Iupiters Temple, there was a needle or pyramide, made of foure Emeralds stones of fortie cubits long, and in some places foure broad, and in others two: and that in his time there was in Tirus in Hercules Temple, a Pillar of an Emerald. It may be (as Plinie saieth) it was of some greene stone, somewhat like the Emerald, and they called it a false Emerald. As some will say, that in the Cathedrall Church of Cordoüe there are certaine Pillars of Eme∣ralds which remaine since it was a Mesquite for the Kings Miramamolins Moores,* 5.150 which reig∣ned there. In the fleete, the yeare one thousand fiue hundred eightie and seuen, in the which I [ 40] came from the Indies, they brought two chests of Emeralds, euery one weighing at the least foure Arobes, whereby we may see the abundance they haue.

* 5.151Now that we intreate of the great riches that comes from the Indies, it were no reason to forget the Pearle, which the Ancients called Marguerites, and at the first were in so great esti∣mation, as none but royall persons were suffered to weare them: but at this day there is such abundance as the Negres themselues doe weare chaines thereof; they grow in shels or Oysters, in eating whereof I haue found Pearles in the middest of them. These Oysters within are of the colour of heauen, very liuely. In some places they make Spoones, the which they call Mo∣ther of Pearle. The Pearles doe differ much in forme, in bignesse, figure, colour and polishing; so [ 50] likewise in their price they differ much. Some they call Aue Mariaes, being like the small grains of beades: others are Pater nosters, being bigger. Seldome shall you finde two of one greatnesse, forme,* 5.152 and colour. For this reason the Romans (as Plinie writeth) called them Vnions. When as they doe finde two that are alike in all points, they raise the price much, especially for eare-rings. I haue seene some paires valued at thousands of Ducats, although they were not like to Cleopa∣traes two Pearles, whereof Plinie reports, either of them being worth a hundred thousand Du∣cates,* 5.153 with the which this foolish Queene wonne a wager she had made against Marc Antony, to spend in one Supper aboue an hundred thousand Ducates, so at the last course shee dis∣solued one of these Pearles in strong Vinegar, and dranke it vp. They say the other Pearle was cut in two, and placed in the Pantheon at Rome, at th'eares of the Image of Venus. [ 60]

They fish for Pearles in diuers parts of the Indies, the greatest abundance is in the South Seas, neere vnto Panama,* 5.154 where the Ilands of Pearles be, as they call them. But at this day they finde greatest store, and the best, in the North Seas, the which is neere to the Riuer of Hache. I

did see them make their fishing, the which is done with great charge and labour of the poore slaues, which diue six, nine, yea twelue fadomest into the Sea, to seeke for Oysters, the which commonly are fastened to the rockes and grauell in the Sea: they pull them vp, and bring them aboue the water to their canoes, where they open them,* 5.155 drawing forth the treasure they haue within them. The water of the Sea in this part is very cold, but yet the labour and toile is grea∣test in holding of their breath, sometimes a quarter, yea halfe an houre together,* 5.156 being vnder the water at their fishing. And to the end these poore s••aues may the better continue and hold their breaths, they feede them with drie meates, and that in small quantitie, so as couetousnesse makes them abstaine and fast thus against their wils. They imploy their Pearles to diuers works, and they pierce them to make chaines whereof there is great store in euery place. In the yeare of [ 10] our Lord 1581. I did see the note of what came from the Indies for the King: there were eigh∣teene Maces of Pearle, besides three caskets, and for particulars, there were twelue hundred three∣score and foure Marks, and besides them, seuen caskets not pierced, which heretofore we would haue esteemed and held for a lye.* 5.157

They haue (as we haue here) a proper name, whereby they note and signifie bread, which at Peru, they call Tanta, and in other places by another name. But the qualitie and substance of the bread the Indians vse, differs much from ours: for we finde not they had any kinde of Wheat or Barley, not any other kinde of graine which they vse in Europe to make Bread withall: in∣stead whereof they vsed other kindes of graines and rootes,* 5.158 amongst the which Mays holds the first place, and with reason, in Castile they call it Indian Wheat, and in Italie▪ they call it Turkey [ 20] graine. And euen as Wheate is the most common graine for the vse of man, in the regions of the old world, which are Europe, Asia, and Affrica: So in the new found world, the most common graine is Mays, the which is found almost in all the Kingdomes of the West Indies, as at Peru, new Spaine, in the new Kingdome of Granado, in Gantimalla, in Chille, and vpon the maine Land. I doe not finde that in old time, in the Ilands of Barlouente, as Cuba, Saint Dominique, Iamaique, and Saint Iean, that they vsed Mays: at this day they vse much Yuca and Caçaui, whereof we will presently intreate. I doe not thinke that this Mays is any thing inferiour to our Wheate, in strength nor substance, but it is more hot and grosse, and engenders more bloud, whereupon they that haue not beene accustomed thereunto, if they eate too much, they swell and become scab∣bed. It growes vpon Canes or Reedes; euerie one beares one or two branches,* 5.159 to the which the [ 30] graine is fastened, and although the graine be bigge, yet finde they great store thereof, so as in some clusters I haue told seuen hundred graines. They must plant it with the hand one by one, and not verie thicke; it desires a hot and a moist ground, and growes in great abundance in ma∣ny places of the Indies. It is not strange in those Countries to gather three hundred Fa••eg••es,* 5.160 or measures for one sowen. There is difference of Mays as there is of Wheate, one is great and very nourishing, another small and drie, which they call Moroche; the greene leaues and canes of Mays, is a good foode for their Males and Horses, and it serues them for straw when it is dri∣ed; the graine is of more nourishment for Horses then Barley; and therefore in those Coun∣tries, they vse to water their Horses before they eate, for if they should drinke after, they would swell as when they eate Wheate. Mays is the Indians bread, the which they commonly eate [ 40] boiled in the graine hot, and they call it Mote, as the Chinois and Iapon••is eate their Rice sod∣den with the hot water: sometimes they eate it baked. There is some Mays round and bigge, as that of Lucanas, which the Spaniards eate rosted as a delicate meat, and hath a better taste then Buarbenses, or rosted peason. There is another kinde of eating it more pleasant, which is, to grinde the Mays, and to make small cakes of the flower, the which they put in the fire, and then bring them hot to the Table. In some places they call them Arepas. They make also round bowles of this paste, and so trimme them that they continue long, eating it as a daintie dish.

They haue inuented at the Indies (for friandise and pleasure) a certaine kinde of paste, they doe make of this flower-mixt with Sugar, which they call Biscuits and mellinders. This Mays serues the Indians, not onely for bread, but also for wine: for they doe make their drinke there∣of, [ 50] wherewith they are sooner drunke then with wine of Grapes. They make this wine of Mays in diuers sorts and manners, calling it in Peru, Acua, and by the most common name of the Indies, Chicha. And the strongest is made like vnto Beere, steeping the graine vntill it break••. After they boile it in such sort, that it growes so strong, as a little ouerthrowes a man.* 5.161 In Peru they call this Sora, it is defended by the Law, for the great inconueniences that grow thereby, making men drunke. But this Law is ill obserued, for that they vse it still; yea they spend whole daies and nights in drinking carowses.

There is another manner of making this Acua or Chicha, which is to champe the Mays, and make a leuen thereof, and then boile it: yea the Indians hold opinion, that to make good leuen, it must be champed by old withered women, which makes a man sicke to heare, and yet they [ 60] doe drinke it. The clenliest manner, the most wholesome, and that which least harmeth, is to roast the Mays, which the most ciuill Indians doe vse, and some Spaniards, yea for physicke: For in effect they finde it a very whole some drinke for the reines,* 5.162 so as you shall hardly finde any one at the Indies complaine of paine in the backe, for that they doe drinke of this Chicha.

The Spaniards and Indians eate this Mays boyled and roasted for daintinesse, when it is tender in the grape like milke, they put it into the pot, and make sauces that are good to eate. The buds of Mays are very fat, and serue instead of Butter and oyle: so as this Mays at the Indies serues both for men and beasts, for bread, wine, and oyle.

* 5.163In some parts of the Indies they vse a kinde of Bread they call Caçaui, which is made of a cer∣taine roote they call Yuca. This Yuca is a great and grosse roote, which they cut in small mor∣sels, they grate or scrape it, and then put it in a presse to straine, making a thinne and broad cake thereof, almost like vnto a Moores Target or Buckler; then doe they drie it: and this is the Bread they eate. It hath no taste, but is healthfull and of good nourishment. For this reason we said, being at Saint Dominicke, that it was the proper foode for great eaters, for that they [ 10] might eate much, without any feate of surfetting. They must of necessitie water this Caçaui before they eate it; it is sharpe, and easely watered with water or broath, wherein it is very good, for that it swels much, and so they make Capirotades, but it is hardly steeped in Milke, Hony of Canes, or in Wine, for that these liquors cannot pierce it, as it doth Bread made of Wheate. Of this Caçaui there is one kinde more delicate then any other, which is that they make of the flower called Xauxau, which they doe much esteeme in those parts. For my part,* 5.164 I esteeme more a morsell of Bread, how hard and blacke soeuer. It is a strange thing that the iuyce or water that commeth from this roote when they straine it, which makes the Caçaui, is a deadly poison, and kils any that drinkes thereof: but the substance that remaineth, is a very wholesome Bread and nourishment, as we haue said.

There is another kinde of Yuca, which they call Sweet, and hath not this poison in the iuyce: [ 20] this is eaten in the roote boiled or roasted, and is good meate. Caçaui will keepe long, and there∣fore they carrie it to Sea instead of Biscuit. The place where they vse most of this Bread, is at the Ilands of Barlouente,* 5.165 which are Saint Dominicke, Cuba, Port Ricco, Iamaique, and some o∣thers thereabouts; for that the soile of these Ilands will neither beare Wheate, nor Mays: for when as they sowe Wheate, it comes vp well, and is presently greene, but so vnequally, as they cannot gather it; for of the seede sowen, at one instant some is spindled, some is in the eare, and some doth but bud, one is great and another little, one is in the grasse and another in the graine: and although they haue carried labourers thither, to see if there were any tillage or Art to be v∣sed, yet could they finde no remedy for the qualitie of the earth. They carry Meale from new [ 30] Spaine or the Canaries, which is so moist, that hardly can they make any profitable Bread, or of good taste. The Wafer-cakes wherewith they say Masse, did bend like to wet paper, by rea∣son of the extreame humiditie and heate which are ioyntly in that Countrie. There is another extreame contrarie to this, which hinders the growing of Mays or Wheate in some parts of the Indies, as on the height of the Sierre of Peru, and the Prouinces which they call of Colao, which is the greatest part of this Realme, where the climate is so cold and dry, as it will not suffer any of these seedes to grow: instead thereof the Indians vse another kinde of roote, which they call Papas: these rootes are like to ground Nuts, they are small rootes, which cast out ma∣ny leaues.* 5.166 They gather this Papas, and dry it well in the Sunne, then beating it, they make that which they call Chuno, which keepes many daies, and serues for bread. In this Realme [ 40] there is great trafficke of Chuno, the which they carry to the Mines of Potozi: they likewise eate of these Papas boiled or roasted: there is one sweete of these kindes, which growes in hot places, whereof they doe make certaine sawces and minced meate, which they call Locro. To conclude, these rootes are the bread of that Land; so as when the yeare is good, they reioyce much, for that oftentimes they freeze in the earth, so great is the cold of that Region: they car∣rie Mays from the Valley or Sea-coast, and the Spaniards which are daintie, carrie likewise from the same places Wheate-meale, whereof they doe make good Bread, because that the Land is drie.

Besides Papas, which is the principall, there is Ocas, Yanococas, Camotes, Vatas, Xiquimas, Yuca, Cochucha,* 5.167 Caui, Totora, Mani, and an infinite number of other kindes, as the Patattres, which they eate as a delicate and toothsome meate. They haue likewise carried fruites to the Indies [ 50] from these parts, the which prosper better there, then the Indian Plants doe, brought into Eu∣rope. There are other rootes that serue them for dainties, as the Cochucho: it is a small sweete roote, which some prouide for more delight. There are other rootes fit to coole, as the Piquima, which is the qualitie very cold and moist, and in Summer it refresheth and quencheth the thirst; but the Papas and Ocas, be the chiefe for nourishment and substance. The Indians esteeme Garlike aboue all the rootes of Europe,* 5.168 and hold it for a fruite of great force.

Seeing we haue begunne with the lesser Plants, I might in few words, touch that which con∣cernes Flowers and Pot-hearbes, and that which the Latines call Arbusta, without any men∣tion of Trees. There are some kindes of these shrubbes at the Indies, which are of verie good taste. The first Spaniards named many things at the Indies with such Spanish names, as they [ 60] did most resemble, as Pines, Concombres, and Prunes, although they be very different fruites to those which are so-called in Spaine. The Pines, or Pine-aples, are of the same fashion and forme outwardly to those of Castile, but within they wholly differ, for that they haue neither Apples,

nor scales, but are all one flesh, which may be eaten when the skin is off. It is a fruite that hath an excellent smell, and is very pleasant and delightfull in taste, it is full of iuyce,* 5.169 and of a sweete and sharpe taste, they eate it being cut in morsels, and steeped a while in water and salt. They grow one by one like a cane or stalke, which riseth amongst many leaues, like to the Lillie, but somewhat bigger. The Apple is on the top of euerie cane, it growes in hot and moist grounds, and the best are those of the Ilands of Barlouente. I haue seene in new Spaine, conser••es of these Pines, which was very good. Those which they call Concombres, are no trees, but shrubbes, continuing but one yeare. They giue it this name, for that some of this fruite, and the most part, is in length, and roundnesse like to the Concombres of Spaine: but for the rest they differ [ 10] much, for they are not greene, but violet, yellow, or white, neither are they thornie or rough, but pollished and euen, hauing a verie different taste, and farre better then that of Spaine, for they haue a sharpe sweete taste, very pleasant when it is ripe, yet is it not so sharpe as the Pine. They are very coole, full of liquor and of easie digestion, and in time of heate fit to re∣fresh. They take away the rinde which is white, and all that remaines is meate. They grow in a temperate soile, and require watering. And although for the resemblance they call them Concombres, yet are there many of them round, and others of a different fashion: so as they haue not the figure of Concombres. I doe not remember to haue seene this kinde of fruite in new Spaine, nor at the Ilands, but vpon the Lanos of Peru. That which they call the little fruite of Chille, is of the same sort, verie pleasant to eate, and comes neere the taste of Cherries, [ 20] but in all other things it differs much; for that it is no tree, but an hearbe, which growes little and spreads vpon the earth, casting forth this little fruite, the which in colour and graines, resembles almost the Mulberie, when it is white and not ripe, yet is it more rough and bigger then the Mulberie. They say this little fruite is naturally found in the fields of Chille, where I haue seene of them. They set it vpon Plants and branches, and it growes like any other shrub. Those which they call Prunes, are verily the fruits of trees, and haue more resemblance then the rest to our Plumbs. But to returne to Pot-hearbs, I finde not that the Indians had any Gardens of diuers Hearbes and Plants, but did onely till the Land in some parts for pulses, which they vse, as those which they call Frisolles and Palares, which serue them as our Lentils, Beanes, or Tares: neither haue I knowne that these Pulses, or any other kindes that be in Europe, were there be∣fore [ 30] the Spaniards entred, who carried Plants and Pulses from Spaine thither, where they now grow and increase wonderfully, and in some places exceede greatly the fertilitie of these parts. As if we speak of Mellons which grow in the Vallie of Yuca, in Peru,* 5.170 whose roote becomes a stalk that continues many yeares carrying Mellons yeerely, and they trimme it like vnto a tree; a thing which I doe not know to be in any part of Spaine. But that is more monstrous of the Ca∣libasses or Indian Pompious, and the greatnesse they haue as they grow, especially those which are proper to the Countrie, which they call Capallos, the which they eate most commonly in Lent, boiled and trimmed with some other sawce. There are a thousand kindes of Calibas∣ses, some are so deformed in their bignesse,* 5.171 that of the ••inde cut in the middest and clen∣sed, they make as it were baskets to put in all their meate for their dinner. Of the lesser they make Vessels to eate and drinke in, and doe trimme them handsomely for ma∣nie [ 40] vses.

They haue not found at the West Indies anie kinde of Spices, proper or peculiar to them, as Pepper, Cloues, Cinamon, Nutmegs or Ginger, although one of our companie,* 5.172 who had tra∣uelled much, and in diuers parts, told vs, that in the Desarts of the Iland of Iamaique he had found trees where Pepper grew. But they are not yet assured thereof, neither is there anie trade of these spices at the Indies. The Ginger was carried from the Indies to Hispaniola, and it hath multiplied so, as at this day they know not what to doe with rhe great abundance they haue.* 5.173 In the fleete the, yeare 1587. they brought 22053. quintals of Ginger to Seuille: but the natu∣rall spice that God hath giuen to the West Indies, is that we in Castill call Indian Pepper, and at the Indies, Axi, as a generall word taken from the first Land of the Ilands, which they conque∣red. [ 50] In the language of Cusco, it is called Vchu, and in that of Mexico, Chili. This plant in well knowne, and therefore I will speake a little, onely we must vnderstand, that in old time it was much esteemed amongst the Indians: that they carried into places where it grew not, as a Mar∣chandise of consequence. It growes not vpon cold grounds, as on the Sierre of Peru, but in hot Vallies, where it is often watered. There is of this Axi of diuers colours, some is greene, some red, some yellow, and some of a burning colour, which they call Caribe, the which is extreame∣ly sharpe and biting; there is another sort not so sharpe, but is so sweete, as they may eate it a∣lone as any other fruit. There is some of it verie small and pleasing in the mouth, almost like to the smell of Muske, and is verie good. That which is sharpe and biting in this Axi, be the veines [ 60] and the grain onely; the rest is not: for that they eate it greene & dry, whole and beaten, in the pot, and in sawces, being the chiefe sawce, & all the spice they haue at the Indies. When this Axi is taken moderately, it helps and comforts the stomack for digestion: but if they take too much, it hath bad effects, for of it selfe it is verie hot, fuming, & pierceth greatly, so as the vse thereof is preiudiciall to the health of yong folkes, chiefely to the soule, for that it prouokes to lust. They

vse Salt to temper this Axi, hauing great force to correct it, and so they moderate one with the other by the contrarietie that is in them. They vse also Tomates, which are cold and very wholesome. It is a kinde of graine great and full of iuyce, the which giues a good taste to sawce, and they are good to eate. They haue generally throughout the Indies of this Indian Pepper, at the Ilands, new Spaine, Peru, and all the rest that is discouered. And as Mays is the generall graine for Bread, so Axi is the most common spice for sawces.

The thing wherein was most resemblance, in my opinion, betwixt the Planes at the Indies, and those which the Ancients did celebrate,* 5.174 is the greatnesse of the leaues, for that these haue them very great and coole. But in truth there is no more comparison nor resemblance of the one with the other, then there is (as the Prouerbe saith) betwixt an Egge and a Chesnut. For first, the [ 10] ancient plane carries no fruite, at the least, they made no account thereof, but the chiefest reason why they esteemed it, was, for the shadow, for that there was no more Sunne vnder a Plane than vnder a roofe. And contrariwise, the reason why they should regard it at the Indies, yea make great accompt thereof, is by reason of this fruite, which is very good; for they haue little shade. Moreouer, the ancient Plane had the body so bigge, and the boughs so spread, that Plinie reporteth of one Licinius a Romane Captaine, who with eighteene of his companions dined at ease in th'hollow of one of these Planes:* 5.175 and of the Emperour Caius Caligula, who with eleuen of his ghests feasted vpon the top of another Plane, where he made them a sumptuous banquet. The Indian Planes haue neither so great nor hollow bodies, not so broad boughs.

* 5.176The leaues of the Indian Plane, are of a wonderfull bignesse, and are, in a manner, sufficient to couer a man from the foote to the head. It is a Plant that makes a stocke within the earth, out [ 20] of the which springs many and sundry siens and sprigges, diuided, and not ioyned together. These sprigges grow bigge, euery one making a small tree apart, and in growing they cast forth these leaues, which are of a fine, greene, smooth, and great as I haue said. When it is growne to the height of a stade and a halfe, or two, it puts forth one onely bough of fruite, whereon sometimes there are great numbers of this fruite, and sometimes lesse. I haue told vpon some of these boughs three hundred, whereof euery one was a spanne long more or lesse, and two or three fingers bigge; yet is there much difference herein, betwixt some and others, they take away the rinde, and all the rest is a firme kernell and tender, good to eate, and nourishing. This fruite inclines more to cold then heate. They are accustomed to gather the boughes or clusters, as I haue said, [ 30] being greene, and put them into vessels▪ where they ripen, being well couered, especially when there is a certaine hearbe mingled with it, which serues for this effect. If they suffer them to ri∣pen on the tree, they haue a better taste, and a very good smell, like to Camoisses or sweete Ap∣ples. They last almost all the yeare▪ for that there are alwaies yong ones that grow out of this stocke; so as when one ends, another beginnes to yeelde his fruite, the one is halfe ripe, and the other begins to bud anew, so as one su••ceedes another, and the fruite continues the whole yeare. In gathering the cluster, they cut the sprigge or stalke, for that it beares but one, and neuer but once: but as I haue said, the stalke remaines, and casts forth new sienes or stalkes, vntill it growes old and dies. This Plane continues many yeares, and requires much moisture, and a very hot ground. They put ashes at the foote of it, for the better entertaining thereof, and they make [ 40] small groues and very thicke: the leafe is as broad as a sheete of Paper, or little lesse, and foure times as long.

Although the Plane be the most profitable, yet that Cacao is most esteemed at Mexico, and the Coca in Peru,* 5.177 in which two trees they haue great superstition. The Cacao is a fruite little lesse then Almonds, yet more fat, the which being roasted hath no ill taste. It is so much esteemed a∣mongst the Indians (yea and among the Spaniards) that it is one of the richest and the greatest traffickes of new Spaine: for being a drie fruite, and that keepes long without corruption, they carrie whole Ships loaden from the Prouince of Guatimalla. The last yeare an English Pirat did burne in the Port of Guatulco in new Spaine,* 5.178 aboue a hundred thousand charges of Cacao. They vse it instead of money, for with fiue Cacaos they buy one thing, with thirtie another, and with [ 50] a hundred another, without any contradiction; and they vse to giue it to the poore that beg for almes. The chiefe vse of this Cacao, is in a drinke which they call Chocholate, whereof they make great accompt in that Country, foolishly, and without reason; for it is loathsome to such as are not acquainted with it, hauing a skum or froth that is very vnpleasant to taste, if they be not very well conceited thereof. Yet it is a drinke very much esteemed among the Indians, wherewith they feast Noble men as they passe through their Countrie. The tree whereon this fruite growes, is of reasonable bignesse, and well fashioned, it is so tender, that to keepe it from the burning of the Sunne, they plant neere vnto it, a great tree, which serues onely to shadow it, and they call it the ••••ther of Cacao. There are places where they are like to the Vines and Oliue trees of Spaine. The Prouince where there is greatest abundance for the trafficke of Marchandise, [ 60] is Guatimalla.* 5.179 There growes none in Peru, but Coca, wherein they hold another great superstiti∣on, which seemes to be fabulous. It is a kinde of Marchandise, by the which all their Markets and Faires are made with great expedition. This Coca whereof they make such account, is a small greene leafe, which groweth vpon small trees about a fadome high, and in hot and moist grounds;

eu••ry foure moneths it casts forth this leafe, which they call Tresmitas or Tremoy; it requires great care in planting, being very tender, and much more to keepe it, when it is gathered. They lay it in order in long and narrow baskets, and so lade their sheepe of the Country, which goe in troopes, with one, two, or three thousand baskets of this marchandise.

They bring it commonly from the Andes and vallies, where there is an extreame heate, and where it raines continually the most part of the yeare: wherein the Indians endure much la∣bour and paine to entertaine it, and often many die; for that they goe from the Sierre and cold places to till and gather them in the Andes. Their vse is to carry it in their mouthes,* 5.180 chaw∣ing it, and sucking out the iuice, but they swallow it not. They say it giues them great cou∣rage, and is very pleasing vnto them. They willingly imploy their money [ 10] therein, and vse it as money.

Maguey is a tree of wonders, whereof the Notaries or Chapetons (as the Indians call them) are wont to write miracles, in that it yeeldeth Water, Wine, Oyle, Vinegar, Honie, Sirrope, Thred,* 5.181 Needles, and a thousand other things. It is a tree which the Indians esteeme much in new Spaine, and haue commonly in their dwellings some one of them for the maintenance of life; it growes in the fields, and hath great and large leaues, at the end whereof is a strong and sharpe point, which serues to fasten little pins, or to sew as a needle: and they draw out of this leafe as it were a kinde of thred which they vse. They cut the body which is bigge, when it is tender, wherein is a great hollownesse, by which the substance mounts from the roote,* 5.182 and is a liquor which they [ 20] drinke like water, being sweete and fresh. This liquor being sodden, turnes like Wine, which growes to Vinegar, suffring it to soure, and boiling it more, it becomes as honie, and boiling it halfe, it serues as sirrope: which is healthfull enough, and of good taste; in my iudgement it is better then the sirrope of Raisons. Thus do they boile this liquor, and vse it in diuers sorts, where∣of they draw a good quantitie, for that in some season they draw daily some pots of this liquor. There are also of these trees in Peru, but they are not so profitable as in new Spaine. The wood of this tree is hollow and soft, and serues to keepe fire, like to the match of a harquebuze, and pre∣serues it long: I haue seene the Indians vse it to that end.

The Tunall is another famous tree in new Spaine: if wee may call a tree a heape of leaues ga∣thered together one vpon another, it is the strangest fashiond tree of all other:* 5.183 for first there [ 30] growes one leafe out of the ground, then another vpon it, and so one vpon one, till it commeth to his perfection; but as the leaues grow vp, and on the sides, those vnderneath doe become great, and loose in a manner the forme of leaues, making a body and branches, which are sharpe, prick∣ing, and deformed, so as in some places they doe call it a Thistle. There are Thistles or wilde Tu∣nalls, the which doe carrie no fruite, or else it is very pricking without any profit. There are like∣wise planted Tunalls which yeelde fruite much esteemed amongst the Indians, the which they call Tunas, and they are much greater then Pl••mbes, and long. They open the shell which is fat, and within it is meate and small graines, like to those of figges, which be very sweete; they haue a good taste, especially the white, which haue a pleasing smell, but the red are not vsually so good. There is another sort of Tunalls, which they esteeme much more, although it yeeldes no [ 40] fruit, yet it beares another commoditie and profit, which is of the graine, for that certaine small wormes breede in the leaues of this tree, when it is well husbanded, and are thereunto fastned, couered with a certaine small fine web, which doth compasse them in daintily; and this is that In∣dian Cocheuille, so famous, and wherewith they die in graine. They let it drie, and being dried, car∣rie it into Spaine, which is a great and rich marchandise. The arobe of this Cocheuille or graine is worth many ducats. In the fleete, the yeare 1587. they did bring fiue thousand six hundred se∣uentie seuen arobes, which amounted to two hundred fourescore three thousand seuen hundred and fiftie peeces, and commonly there comes euery yeare as great a wealth.

These Tunalls grow in temperate grounds inclining to cold. In Peru there growes none to this day. I haue seene some Plants in Spaine, but they deserue not estimation.* 5.184 I will speake some∣thing [ 50] likewise of the Anir, although it comes not from a tree, but from an hearbe, for that it serueth for the dying of cloth, and is a marchandise which agrees with the graine; it groweth in great abundance in new Spaine, from whence there came in the fleete I mentioned 5263. aro∣bes, or there abouts, which amounted to so many peeces. Cotten likewise growes vpon small shrubs, and great trees like to little apples, which doe open and yeelde forth this webbe, which being gathered, they spinne to make stuffes: and the yeare that I spake of, there came 64000. arobes.

These Plants we haue spoken of, are the most profitable of the Indies, and the most necessarie for the life of man: yet there are many other that are good to eate,* 5.185 among the which the Ma∣meys are esteemed, being in fashion like to great Peaches, and bigger, they haue one or two stones [ 60] within them, and their meate is somewhat hard. There are some sweete, and others some∣what sowre, and haue the rinde hard. They make conserues of the meate of this fruite, which is like to Marmelade. The vse of this fruite is reasonable good, but the conserues they make thereof, are better. They grow in Ilands. I haue not seene any in Peru. It is a great tree, well fashioned, and a reasonable faire leafe. The Guauyanos be other trees which commonly

carrie an ill fruite, full of sowre kernels, and are like to little Apples. It is a tree little esteemed vpon the firme Land and at the Ilands, for they say it smels like to the P••n••ises. The taste and sauour of this fruite is verie grosse, and the substance vnholesome. In Saint Dominique and other Ilands, there are whole Mountaines full of these Guayanos, and they say, there was no such kindes of trees before the Spaniards came there, but that they brought them they know not from whence. This tree hath multiplied infinitely, for that there is no Beast that will eate the kernels or the graine, so as being thus scattered on the earth, being hot and moist, it multiplies in this sort. In Peru, the Guayanos differs from others, for that the fruite is not red, but white, nei∣ther hath it any ill smell, but is of a very good taste; and of what sort of Guayanos soeuer it be, the fruite is as good as the best of Spaine, especially of those which they call Guayanos de Matos, [ 10] and of other little white Guaynilles. It is a fruite reasonably holesome, and agrees with the sto∣mack, being of a strong digestion, and cold. The Paltas commonly are hote and delicate. The Palto is a great tree, and carries a faire leafe, which hath a fruit like to great Peares: within it hath a great stone, and all the rest is soft meate, so as when they are full ripe, they are as it were But∣ter, and haue a delicate taste. In Peru the Paltas are great, and haue a verie hard skale, which may be taken off whole. This fruite is most vsuall in Mexico, hauing a thinne skinne, which may be pilled like an Apple: they hold it for a very holesome meate, and as I haue said, it declines a little from heate. These Mamayes, Guayanos, and Paltos, be the Indians Peaches, Apples, and Peares; and yet would I rather choose them of Europe.

* 5.186The Marmalad is that which they call Capotes, or Chicoçapotes, which haue a sweete taste, and neere vnto the colour of Marmalade. Some Crollos (for so they called the Spaniards borne at [ 20] the Indies) say that this fruite passeth all the fruites of Spaine in excellencie: yet am I not of that opinion. Those Chicoçapotes or Capotes, wherein there is little difference, grow in the hotest parts of new Spaine, neither haue I knowledge of any such fruite in the firme Land of Peru. As for the Blanckemanger, it is that Annona or Guanauana, which growes in the firme Land, which is fashioned like vnto a Peare, a little sharpe and opened, within it is white, tender and soft like Butter, sweete and of a pleasing taste: It is no white meate, though they call it Blancke∣manger.

There are some grosse Fruites, as those which they call Lucumes (of which fruite they speake in a Prouerbe,* 5.187 that it is a counterfet price.) The Guanos, Pacayes, Hubos, and the Nuts which they call Imprisoned: which fruites seeme to many, to be the same kinde of Nuts we haue in Spaine. I [ 30] doe not thinke it good to passe away vnder silence the Cocos or Indian Palmes, by reason of a verie notable propertie it hath. I call them Palmes, not properly, or that it beares Dates, but that they are trees like to other Palmes. They are high and strong, and the higher they grow, the broader they stretch out their branches. These Cocos yeeld a fruite which they likewise call Cocos, where∣of they commonly make vessels to drinke in,* 5.188 and some they say haue a vertue against poison, and to cure the paine in the side. The nutte and meate being dried, is good to eate, and comes neere in take to greene Chesnuts. When the Coco is tender vpon the tree, the substance within it, is as it were Milke, whith they drinke for daintinesse, and to refresh them in time of heate. I haue seene of these trees in Saint Iean de Port Ricco, and other parts of the Indies, and they report a wonder∣full thing, that euery moneth or Moone, this tree casts forth a new branch of this Cocos; so as it [ 40] yeeldes fruite twelue times in the yeare, as it is written in the Apocalips: and in truth this seemes like vnto it, for that all the branches are of different ages, some beginning, others being ripe, and some halfe ripe. These Cocos are commonly of the forme and bignesse of a small Melon. There is of another kinde, which they call Coquillos, the which is a better fruite, whereof there be some in Chille. They are somewhat lesse then Nuts, but more round. There is another kinde of Cocos, which haue not the kernell so oylie, but within they haue a great number of small fruits like Almonds, like vnto the graines of a Pomgranat.

These Almonds are thrice as bigge as those of Castillo, and resemble them in taste, though they be more sharpe, and likewise moist and oylie. It is a good meate, they vse it also in feasting, for lacke of Almonds to make Marchpanes, and such other things. They call them Almonds of the [ 50] Andes, for that these Cocos grow abundantly vpon the Andes of Peru; they are so strong and hard,* 5.189 as to open them, they must beate them with a great stone, when they fall from the tree. If they chance to hit any one on the head, he hath no more neede of any Surgeon. It is an incredi∣ble thing, that within the hollow of these Cocos, which are no bigger than the rest, or little more, there are such a multitude of these Almonds. But as touching Almonds and other fruits, all trees must yeelde to the Almonds of Chachapoyas, which I cannot otherwise call. It is the most plea∣sing,* 5.190 delicate and wholesome fruite of all that I haue seene at the Indies.

The Indians are great louers of flowers, and in new Spaine more then in any other part of the world, and therefore they are accustomed to make many kindes of Nosegaies, which there they [ 60] call Suchillos, with such prettie varietie and art, as nothing can be more pleasing. They haue a cu∣stome amongst them, that the chiefest man offer their Suchillos or nosegayes in honour to No∣blemen, and to their ghests; and they presented vs with such abundance as wee passed through that Countrey, as wee kn••w not what to doe with them▪ and at this day they vse

the principall flowers of Castile, to that end, for that they grow better there than here, as G••lli-flowers, Roses, Iasmins, Violets, Orange flowers, and other sorts which they haue transported out of Spaine. The Rose tree groweth too fast in some places, so as they beare no Roses. It chanced one day that a Rose tree was burned, and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 which sprowted out,* 5.191 presently bare abundance of Roses, and thereby they learned to pr••••e them, and to cut off the superfluous bran∣ches, so as at this day they yeelde reasonable store of Roses. But besides these kindes of flowers, which haue beene transported from hence, there are many others, whose names I doe not know, whereof some are red, blew, yellow, violet and white, with a thousand different colours, which the Indians did vse to carry on their heads, as feathers for ornament. True it is, that may of these [ 10] flowers are onely pleasing to the sight, hauing no good sauour, either they are grosse, or else they haue none at all; and yet there be some of an excellent sent. As those which grow vpon a tree tearmed by them Floripondio or carry flower, which beares no fruite, but onely these flow∣ers, which are greater than the Lillie, and are like to little Bels, all white, which haue within them small threds, as we see in the Lillie: it leaues not all the yeare to beare these flowers, whose smell is wonderfull sweete and agreeable, especially in the coole of the morning. The Viceroy Don Francisco de Toledo sent of these trees vnto King Phillip, as a thing worthy to be planted in royall Gardens. In new Spaine the Indians esteeme much of a flower, which they call Volosuchil, which signifieth flower of the heart, for that it beares the forme of a heart, and is not much lesse. The flower of Granadille is held for an admirable thing, and they say, it hath in it [ 20] the markes of the Passion, and that therein they note the nailes, the piller, the whips, and crowne of thornes, and the wounds, wherein they are not altogether without reason, and yet to find out and obserue these things, it requires some pietie to cause beleefe: but it is very exquisite and faire to the eye, although it haue no smell, &c.

The balme which comes from the West Indies,* 5.192 is not of the same kinde of right Balme which they bring from Alexandria or Cair••, and in old time was in Iudea, which Iudea (as Plinie wri∣teth) did of all the world possesse this greatnesse, vntill the Emperour Vespasian brought it to Rome and into Italie. At the Indies I haue seene the Tree from whence they draw the Balme,* 5.193 which is as big as a Pomgranat tree, and something neere the fashion: and if my memorie failes me not, it hath nothing common with the Vine, although that Strabo writes,* 5.194 that the ancient [ 30] tree of Balme, was of the bignesse of a Pomgranat tree. But in their accidents & operations, their liquors are alike, as likewise they be in their admirable smels, & in the cure and healing of wounds in colour and substance, seeing they report of other Balmes that there is some white, vermillion, greene and blacke, the which is likewise seene in that of the Indies. And as they drew forth the ancient in cutting and making incisions in the barke, to cause the liquor to distill out, so doe they with that at the Indies, although it distils in greater abundance. And as in the ancient there is one kinde which is pure, the which they call Opobalsamum, which be the verie teares that distill, so as there is another sort which is not so exquisite, the which they draw from the barke and leaues strained and boiled on the fire, the which they call Xilobalssamum. The like is also in the Indian Balmes; there is one pure that distils from the tree, and others that the Indians draw out [ 40] by straining and boiling the leaues and wood. The Apostolike Sea hath giuen libertie to giue Creame of Balme at the Indies, and that they should vse it in Confirmation and other ceremonies which they vse.

Next to Balme, Amber holds the second place: it is another liquor which is likewise sweet and medicinall, but more thicke, and turnes into a paste of a hot complexion,* 5.195 and a good per∣fume. This Amber comes from new Spaine, which hath that aduantage aboue other Prouinces in Gummes, Liquors, and juyce of Trees, whereby they haue such abundance of matter, for per∣fume and physicke, as is the Animè, whereof there comes great store, Copal or Suchicopal, which is another kinde, Storax and Incense, which haue excellent operations, and haue a very good smell fit for fumigations. Likewise the Tacamahaca and Cara••na, which are also very medicinall. They bring likewise from this Prouince oile of Aspicke, which the Physicians and Painters vse much, [ 50] the one for plaisters, the other▪ to vernish their pictures. They bring also for the Physicians Cas∣sia fistula, the which growes plentifully in Saint Dominique. It is a great Tree, which carries these Canes as his fruit.* 5.196 They brought in the fleet wherein I came from Saint Dominique fortie eight Quintals of Cassia fistula. Salcepareille is not lesse knowne, for a thousand remedies wherein it is vsed. There came in the same fleet fiftie Quintals from the same Iland. There is much of this Salcepareille at Peru, and most excellent in the Prouince of Guayaquil, which is vnder the Line. Many goe to be cured into this Prouince, and it is the opinion of some, that the pure water one∣ly which they drinke, giues them health, for that it passeth by rootes as I haue said, from whence it drawes this vertue, so as there needes no great couering or garments to make a man sweat in [ 60] that Countrie. The wood of Guayac, which they call Lignum sanctum, or Indian wood, growes abundantly in the same Ilands, and is as heauie as Iron, so as it presently sinkes in the water:* 5.197 here∣of they brought in the same fleet three hundred and fiftie Quintals, and they might haue brought twentie, yea, a hundred thousand of this wood, if there were vse for it. There came in the same fleet, and from the same Iland, one hundred and thirtie Quintals of Bresil wood, the which is

fiery red, so well knowne, and much vsed in dying and other things. There are at the Indies in∣finite numbers of other aromaticall Woods, Gummes, Oiles, and Drugs, so as it is not possible to name them all, neither doth it now much import. I say onely, that in the time of the Kings In∣guas of Cusco, and the Mexicane Kings, there were many great personages expert in curing of diseases with simples,* 5.198 and did goodly cures, hauing the knowledge of the many vertues and pro∣perties of Herbs, Rootes, Woods, and Plants, which grow there, and whereof the Ancients of Europe haue had no knowledge. There are a thousand of these simples fit to purge, &c.

Woods are so many and great, that it hath beene needfull (passing through some parts of the Indies, especially where they newly entred) to make their way, in cutting downe Trees, and pulling vp Bushes, so that (as some religious men haue written that haue tried it) they could [ 10] not sometimes haue passed aboue a league in a day. One of our brothers (a man worthy of cre∣dit) reported vnto vs, that being strayed in the Mountaines, not knowing which way hee should passe,* 5.199 he fell among such thicke Bushes, that hee was forced to goe vpon them, without setting foot to the ground by the space of fifteen whole dayes: and to see the Sunne, or to marke some way in this thicke Forest full of wood, hee was forced to climbe to the top of the highest Trees to discouer. He that shall reade the discourse of his trauell, how often he was lost, and the wayes hee passed, with the strange aduentures that happened vnto him, the which I haue written briefly, being so worthy the knowledge, and hauing my selfe trauelled a little ouer the Mountaines at the Indies, were it but the eighteene leagues betwixt Nombre de Dios and Pana∣ma, may well iudge what great Forests there are. So as hauing no winter in those parts, to nip them with cold, and the humiditie of the Heauens and Earth being so great, as the Mountaines [ 20] bring forth infinite Forests, and the Playnes which they call Sauanas, great plentie of grasse: there is no want of Pasture for feeding, of Timber for building, nor of Wood for fuell. It is impos∣sible to set downe the differences and formes of so many wilde Trees, for that the names of the greatest part are vnknowne.

Cedars in old time so much esteemed, are there very common, both for buildings and ships, and they are of diuers sorts, some white, and some red, very odoriferant. There are great store of Bay trees, very pleasant to behold vpon the Andes of Peru, vpon the Mountaines, in the Ilands of Nicaragua, and in new Spaine. There are also infinite numbers of Palmes and Ceiuas, whereof the Indians make their Canoes, which are Boates made of one piece. They bring into Spaine [ 30] from the Hauana, excellent timber. In the Iland of Cuba, there are infinite numbers of like trees, as Ebene, Caouana, Grenadill••, Cedars, and other kindes which I doe not know. There are great Pine trees in new Spaine, though they be not so strong as those in Spaine: they beare no pignous or kernels, but emptie apples. The Oakes as they call them of Guayaquil, is an excellent wood and sweet, when they cut it; yea there are Canes or most high Reeds, of whose boughs or small reedes they doe make Bottles and Pitchers to carry water, and doe likewise vse them in their buildings. There is likewise the wood of Ma••sle or Firre, whereof they make masts for their ships, and they hold them as strong as Iron. Molle is a tree of many vertues, which casteth forth small boughes, whereof the Indians make wine. In Mexico they call it the tree of Peru, for that it came from thence: but it growes also in new Spaine, and better then those in Peru. There are [ 40] a thousand other Trees, which were a superfluous labour to intreat of, whereof some are of an exceeding greatnesse, I will speake onely of one which is in Tlaco Chauoya, three leagues from Guayaca in new Spaine:* 5.200 this tree being measured within, being hollow, was found to haue nine fadome, and without, neere to the roote, sixteene, and somewhat higher, twelue. This tree was strooke with lightning from the toppe to the bottome, through the heart, the which cau∣sed this hollownesse: they say that before the thunder fell vpon it, it was able to shaddow a thousand men, and therefore they did assemble there for their dances and superstitions: yet to this day there doth remaine some boughes and verdure, but not much. They know not what kinde of tree it is, but they say it is a kinde of Caedar. Such as shall finde this strange, let them reade what Plinie reporteth of the Plaine of Lidia,* 5.201 the hollow whereof contained fourescore foot [ 50] and one, and seemed rather a Cabbin or a House, then the hollow of a tree, his boughes like a whole wood, the shaddow whereof couered a great part of the field. By that which is written of this Tree, we haue no great cause to wonder at the Weauer, who had his dwelling and Loome in the hollow of a Chesnut tree: and of another Chesnut tree, if it were not the very same, into the hollow whereof there entered eighteene men on Horsebacke, and passed out without distur∣bing one another. The Indians did commonly vse their Idolatries in these Trees, so strange and deformed, euen as did the auncient Gentiles, as some Writers of our time doe report.

* 5.202The Indians haue receiued more profit, and haue bin better recompenced in Plants that haue bin brought from Spaine, then in any other Merchandise, for that those few which are carried from the Indies into Spaine, grow little there, and multiply not, and co••trariwise the great num∣ber [ 60] that haue beene carried from Spaine to the Indies, prosper well and multiply greatly: I know not whether I shall attribute it to the bountie of the Plants that goe from hence, or to the goodnesse of the soyle that is there. Finally, there is at the Indies any good thing that Spaine brings forth: in some places it is better, in some worse, as Wheate, Barley, Hearbes, and all

kinds of Pulses, also Lettuce, Coleworts, Radishes, Onions, Garlike, Parsley, Turneps, Parse∣neps, Becengenes, or Apples of loue, Siccorie, Beetes, Spinage, Pease, Beanes, Fetches: and finally, whatsoeuer groweth here of any profit, so as all that haue voyaged thither, haue beene curious to carry Seedes of all sorts, and all haue growne, although diuersly, some more, some lesse. As for those trees that haue most abundantly fructified, be Orenge-trees, Limons, Citrons, and other of that sort. In some parts there are at this day, as it were whole Woods and Forrests of Orange trees: tha which seeming strange vnto me, I asked who had planted the fields with so many O∣range trees? they made me answer, that it did come by chance, for that Oranges being fallen to the ground, and rotten, their seedes did spring,* 5.203 and of those which the water had carried away into diuers parts, these Woods grew so thicke: which seemed to mee a very good reason. I haue [ 10] said that this fruite hath generally increased most at the Indies, for that I haue not beene in any place but I finde Orange trees, for that all their soile is hot and moist, which this tree most de∣sires. There growes not any vpon the Sierre or Mountaine, but they carrie them from the vallies or Sea coast. The conserue of Oranges which they doe make at the Ilands, is the best I haue seene any where: Peaches, Presses, and Apricockes haue greatly multiplied, especially in new Spaine. At Peru there growes few of these kindes of fruites, except Peaches, and much lesse in the Ilands. There growes Apples and Peares, yet but scarcely: there are but few Plumbs, but aboundance of Figges, chiefly in Peru. They finde Q••inces in all the Countrie of the Indies, and in new Spaine, in such aboundance, as they gaue vs fiftie choice ones for halfe a riall. There is great store of Pomegranats, but they are all sweete, for the sharpe are not there esteemed. There [ 20] are very good Melons in some parts of Peru. Cherries both wilde and tame haue not prospe∣red well at the Indies, the which I doe not impute to want of temperature, for that there is of all sorts, but to carelesnesse, or that they haue not well obserued the temperature. To conclude, I doe not finde that in those parts there wants any daintie fruite. As for grosse fruites, they haue no Beillottes nor Chesnuts, neither doe I finde that any haue growne there to this day. Almonds grow there, but rarely. They carry from Spaine, for such as are daintie mouthed, both Almonds, Nuts, and Filberds: but I haue not knowne they had any Medlers or Seruices, which im∣ports little.

There growes no Wine nor Grapes in the Ilands, nor firme Land, but in new Spaine, there are some Vines which beare Grapes, and yet make no Wine. The cause is,* 5.204 for that the Grape ri∣pens [ 30] not well, by reason of the raine that fals in the Moneths of Iuly and August, which hin∣ders their ripening, so as they serue onely to eate. They car••y Wine out of Spaine, and from the Canaries, to all parts of the Indies, except Peru and the Realme of Chille. There are some places where the Vines are not watered, neither from heauen nor earth, and yet they increase in great abundance, as in the Valley of Yca, and in the ditches that they call Villacuzi, in which places they finde ditches, or th'earth sunke downe amongst the dead Sands, which are thorow∣out the yeare of a wonderfull coolenesse, and yet it raines not there at any time, neither is there any manner of meanes to water it artificially: the reason is, because the soile is spongious, and sucks vp the water of the riuers that fall from the Mountaine, which moisten these Sands, or [ 40] else it is the moistnesse of the Sea, as others suppose, which passing ouer this Sand, is the cause why it is not barren nor vnprofitable, as the Philosopher teaches. The Vines haue so increased there, as for this cause onely the tithes of the Churches are multiplied fiue or six times double within these twentie yeares. And it is strange, that in the Citie of Cusco you shall finde ripe Grapes all the yeare long:* 5.205 the reason is (as they say) for that those Vallies bring forth fruits in diuers moneths of the yeare, either for that they cut their Vines in diuers seasons, or that this va∣rietie proceedes from the qualitie of the soile: but whatsoeuer it be, it is most certaine, there are some Vallies which carrie fruite all the yeare. If any one wonder at this, it may be he will won∣der much more at that which I shall say, and perchance not beleeue it. There are Trees in Peru, whereof the one part yeeldes fruite one sixe moneths of the yeare,* 5.206 and the other halfe part [ 50] yeeldes fruite the other six moneths. In Malla which is thirteene leagues from the Citie of Kings, there is a Figge tree, whereof the one halfe which is towards the South, is greene, and yeeldeth his fruite one season of the yeare, that is, when it is summer vpon the Sierre, and the other moitie towards the Lanos or Sea coast, is greene, and yeeldes his fruite in the other con∣trarie season, when it is summer vpon the Lanos, which groweth from the diuers temperature, and the ayre which commeth from the one part, and the other. The reuenue of Wine there is not small, but it goeth not out of the Countrie. But the Silke that is made in new Spaine is trans∣ported into other Countries, as to Peru. There were no Mulberrie trees in the Indies, but such as were brought from Spaine, and they grow well, especially in the Prouince which they call Mistecqua, where there are Silke-wormes, and they put to worke the Silke they gather, where∣of [ 60] they make verie good Taffataes: yet to this day they haue made neither Damaske, Sattin, not Veluet. The Sugar yet is a greater reuenue, for they not onely spend it at the Indies, but also they carrie much into Spaine, for the Canes, grow exceeding well in manie parts of the Indies. They haue built their engins in the Ilands, in Mexico, in Peru, and in other parts, which yeeldeth them a very great reuenue.

It was told me, that the engine for Sugar in Nasca, was worth yeerly aboue thirtie thousand pieces of reuenue. That of Chica••a ioyning to Truxillo, was likewise of great reuenue, and those of new Spaine are of no lesse; and it is strange thing to see what store they consume at the In∣dies. They brought from the Iland of Saint Dominique, in the fleet wherein I came, eight hun∣dred ninetie eight chests of Sugar, which being (as I did see) shipped at Port Ricco (euery chest (in my opinion) weighed eight Arobes, euery Arobe weighing fiue and twentie pounds, which are two hundred weight of Sugar) is the chiefe reuenue of these Ilands, so much are men giuen to the desire of sweet things.* 5.207 There are likewise Oliues and Oliue trees at the Indies, I say in Mexi∣co and in Peru, yet hath there not beene to this day any Mill for Oile, for that they eate all their Oliues, and dresse them well: they finde the charge is greater to make Oile then the profit, and [ 10] therefore they carry all the Oile they doe spend from Spaine. And here we will end with plants, and will passe to such beasts as be at the Indies.

§. VI. Of Beasts and Fowles in the Indies.

* 5.208I Finde there are three kindes of beasts at the Indies, whereof some haue beene carried from Spaine; others are of the same kinde we haue in Europe, and yet not carried by the Spaniards; and others are proper to the Indies, whereof there are none in Spaine. [ 20] Of the first kinde are Sheepe, Kine, Goats, Swine, Horses, Asses, Dogs, Cats, and o∣ther such beasts, for there are of all these kindes at the Indies. The smaller Cattell haue greatly multiplyed,* 5.209 and if they could make profit of their woolls by sending them into Europe, it were one of the greatest riches the Indies had, for there the flocks of sheepe haue great pastuers, where as their feeding failes not. In Peru there is such store of pastures and feedings, as no man hath any proper to himselfe,* 5.210 but euery man feedes his troups where he pleaseth. For this reason there is commonly great store of flesh, and very good cheape, and all other things that come from sheepe, as Milke, and Cheese. For a time they lost their woolls, vntill that some began to hus∣band it, and to make cloth and couerings, which hath beene a great helpe for the poorer sort of [ 30] the Countrie, for that the cloth of Castile is very deare there. There are many Clothiers in Peru, but more in new Spaine, yet the cloth that comes from Spaine is farre better, whether the wooll bee more fine, or the workmen more expert. In former times there were men that did possesse threescore and ten, yea a hundred thousand sheepe, and at this day they haue not many lesse. If this were in Europe, it were a very great substance, but in that Countrie it is but a meane wealth. In many parts of the Indies, and I thinke in the greatest part, small Cattell doe not increase and profit well, by reason that the grasse is high, and the soile so vicious, that they cannot feede so well as great Cattell.

And therefore there is an infinite number of Kine, whereof there are two kindes. Some are tame and goe in troups,* 5.211 as in the land of Charca, and other Prouinces of Peru, as also in all new Spaine: from these tame Kine they draw such profit as they doe in Spaine, that is, the Flesh, But∣ter, [ 40] Calues, and Oxen to till the ground. The other kinde is wilde, which liue in the Mountains and Forests, and therefore they tame them not, neither haue they any master to whom they are proper, both for the roughnesse and thicknesse of the Forest, as also for the great multitude there is,* 5.212 and he that first kills them is the master, as of any wilde beast. These wilde Kine haue so mul∣tiplyed in Saint Dominique, and thereabouts, that they troupe together in the fields and woods by thousands, hauing no master to whom they appertaine. They hunt these beasts onely for their hides, they goe to the field on horse-backe with their weapons to hough them, coursing the Kine: and when they haue strucken any and stayed them, they are their owne, they slay them and car∣ry the hides home,* 5.213 leauing the flesh, which euery one neglects for the abundance there is, so as [ 50] some haue testified in this Iland, that in some places the aire hath beene corrupted with the a∣bundance of these stinking carkasses. The hides they bring into Spaine, is one of the best reuenues of the Ilands, and of new Spaine. In the fleet the yeere 1587. there came from Saint Dominique 35444. hides,* 5.214 and from new Spaine 64350. which they value at 96532. pieces, so as when they discharge one of these fleets, it is admirable to behold the Riuer of Seuile, and in the Arcenall (where they vnlade) so many hides, and so much merchandize. There are also great numbers of Goats, whose chiefe profit is their tallow, besides their Kid-milke and other commodities, for that both rich and poore vse this tallow for lights. For as ••••ere is a great quantitie, so doe they make very good account of it; yea, more then of oile, but all the tallow they vse is onely of the Males. They vse their skins for shooes, yet I hold them not so good, as those which are car∣ried from Castile. [ 60]

* 5.215Horses haue multiplyed there, and are very excellent in many places; yea in many parts there are Races found as good as the best in Spaine, as well for passing of a Carrier, and for pompe, as also for trauell: and therefore they vse Horses most commonly, although there bee no want of

Moyles, whereof there are many▪ especially where they make their carriages by land. There is no great numbers of Asses, hauing no great vse for them, neither for trauell nor seruice.* 5.216 There are some few Camels; I haue seene some in Peru, that were brought from the Canar••es, and haue multiplyed there a little. In Saint Dominique, Dogs haue so multiplyed in number and bignesse, as at this day it is the scourge and affliction of that Iland: for they eate the Sheepe, and goe in troupes through the fields. Such that kill them are rewarded like to them that kill Wolues in Spaine. At the first there were no Dogs at the Indies but some beasts like vnto little Dogs, the which the Indians call Al••o, and therefore they call all Dogs that goe from Spaine, by the same name, by reason of the resemblance that is betwixt them. The Indians doe so loue these llitle [ 10] Dogs, that they will spare their meat to feed them, so as when they trauell in the Country,* 5.217 they carry them with them vpon their shoulders, or in their bosoms, and when they are sicke, they keepe them with them, without any vse, but onely for companie.

It is certaine that they haue carried from Spaine all these beasts whereof I haue spoken, of which kindes there were none at the Indies▪* 5.218 when they were first discouered about a hundred yeeres since; for besides that it may be well approued by witnesses at this day liuing; It is also a sufficient argument to see that the Indians in their tongue, haue no proper wordes to signifie these beasts, but they vse the same Spanish names, although they be corrupted: for being ignorant of the thing, they tooke the word common to those places from whence they came. I haue found this a good rule, to discerne what things the Indians had before the Spaniards came there, and what [ 20] they had not: for they gaue names to those they had and knew before, and haue giuen new names to these that are newly come vnto them which commonly are the same Spanish names, although they pronounce them after their manner, as for a Horse, Wine, and Wheat. They found of some sorts of beasts that are in Europe, and were not carried thither by the Spaniards. There are Lions, Tigres, Beares, Boares, Foxes, and other fierce and wilde beasts, whereof we haue treated in the first Booke, so as it was not likely they should passe to the Indies by Sea, being impossible to swim the Ocean: and it were a folly to imagine that men had imbarked them with them. It followes therefore that this world ioynes with * 5.219 the new in some part: by which these beasts might passe, and so by little and little multiplyed this world. The Lions which I haue seene, are not red, nei∣ther haue they such haire as they vsually paint them with. They are grey, and not so furious as [ 30] they seeme in pictures. The Indians assemble in troupes to hunt the Lion, and make as it were a circle, which they doe call Chaco, wherewith they inuiron them, and after they kill them with stones, staues, and other weapons. These Lions vse to climbe trees, where being mounted, the Indians kill them with Lances and Crosse-bowes, but more easily with Harquebuzes. The Tigres are more fierce and cruell, and are more dangerous to meet, because they breake forth and assaile men in treason: They are spotted, as the Historiographers describe them. I haue heard some re∣port that these Tigres were very fierce against the Indians, yet would they not aduenture a•• all vpon the Spaniards, or very little; and that they would choose an Indian in the middest of ma∣ny Spaniards, and carry him away.

The Beares which in Cusco they call Otoioncos, be of the same kinde that ours are▪ and keepe in the ground. There are few swarmes of Bees, for that their hony-combs are found in Trees,* 5.220 or [ 40] vnder the ground, and not in Hiues as in Castile. The hony-combs which I haue seene in the Prouince of Charcas, which they call Chiguanas, are of a grey colour, hauing little juyce, and are more like vnto sweet straw, then to hony-combs. They say the Bees are little, like vnto Flies; and that they swarme vnder the earth. The hony is sharpe and blacke, yet in some places there is better, and the combs better fashioned, as in the Prouince of Tucuman in Chille, and in Cartha∣gene. I haue not seene nor heard speake of wilde Boares, but of Foxes and other wilde beasts that eate their Cattell and Fowle, there are more then their Shepherds would willingly haue.* 5.221 Be∣sides these beasts that are furious and hurtfull, there are others that are profitable, and haue not beene transported by the Spaniards, as Stags and Deere, whereof there is great abundance in all the Forests. But the greatest part is a kinde of Deere without hornes, at the least, I haue neuer [ 50] seene nor heard speake of other, and all are without hornes like vnto Corcos.* 5.222 It seemes not hard to beleeue, but is almost certaine, that all these beasts for their lightnesse, and being naturally wilde, haue passed from one World to another, by some parts where they ioyne, seeing that in the great Ilands farre from the mayne land I haue not heard that there are any, though I haue made diligent inquirie.

We may more easily beleeue the same of birds, and that there are of the same kindes that wee haue, as Partridges, Turtles, Pidgeons, Stock-doues, Quailes, and many sorts of Falcons,* 5.223 which they send from new Spaine and Peru, to the Noblemen of Spaine, for they make great account of them. There are also Herons and Eagles of diuers kindes; and there is no doubt but these birds [ 60] and such like, haue sooner passed thither then Lions, Tigres, and Stags. There are likewise at the Indies great numbers of Parrots, especially vpon the Andes of Peru, and in the Ilands of Port Ricco, and Saint Dominique, where they flie by flocks, as Pidgeons doe here. To conclude, birds with their wings may goe where they will; and truly, many kindes might well passe the Gulfe, seeing it is certaine, as Plinie affirmeth, that there are many that passe the Sea,* 5.224 and goe into

strange Regions, although I haue not read that any Fowle hath passed by flight so great a Gulfe, as is the Indian Ocean, yet hold I it not altogether impossible, seeing the common opinion of Mariners, that you shall finde them two hundred leagues and more from the Land. And as Ari∣stotle doth teach, that birds endure the water easily, hauing little respiration, as wee see in Sea fowle, which diue and remayne long vnder the water. Euen so wee may say, that the Fowle which be at this present vpon the mayne land, and in the Ilands at the Indies, might passe the Sea, resting themselues in some small Ilands, or vpon some land which they discouered by a na∣turall instinct (as Plinie reporteth of some) or peraduenture falling into the water,* 5.225 when they were wearie of flying, and after began their flight anew when they had a little rested. As for the Fowles which wee see in the Ilands, where there are no beasts, I beleeue certainly that they pas∣sed [ 10] by one of the foresaid meanes. But for other birds which we finde vpon the mayne land, e∣specially those whose flight is short, it is more credible that they came thither as the beasts did, which are of the same kindes that we haue in Europe. For at the Indies there are great birds, very heauie,* 5.226 as Estridges, whereof there are many in Peru; which doe vse sometimes to terrifie the Indian sheepe as they doe goe with their burthens.

But leauing these birds that gouerne themselues without the care of man, but onely for haw∣king,* 5.227 let vs now speake of tame Fowle. I wondred at Hennes, seeing there were some at the Indies before the Spaniards came there, the which is well approued, for they haue a proper name of the Countrie, and they call a Hen Gualpa, and the Egge Ponto, and they vse the same prouerbe we doe, to call a Coward, a Hen. Those that were at the discouerie of the Ilands of Soloman, doe [ 20] report that they haue seene Hennes there like vnto ours: wee may conceiue that the Hen being so tame a Fowle, and so profitable, men might carry them with them when they passed from one place to another, as we see at this day the Indians in their trauell carry their Hen with them, or chicken vpon the burthen they haue on their shoulders: and likewise they carry them easily in their Cages of reedes or wood. Finally, there be at the Indies many kindes of beasts and birds, such as wee haue in Europe, as I haue specified, and other sorts which I leaue to others to dis∣course of.

* 5.228It were a matter more difficult, to shew, and proue, what beginning many and sundrie sorts of beasts had, which are found at the Indies, of whose kindes we haue none in this Continent. For if the Creator hath made them there, we may not then alleadge nor flie to Noahs Arke, neither [ 30] was it then necessarie to saue all sorts of birds and beasts, if others were to bee created anew. Moreouer, we could not affirme, that the creation of the World was made and finished in sixe dayes, if there were yet other new kindes to make, and specially perfit beasts, and no lesse excel∣lent then those that are knowne vnto vs: If we say then that all these kindes of Creatures were preserued in the Arke by Noah, it followes, that those beasts, of whose kindes wee finde not any but at the Indies, haue passed thither from this Continent, as wee haue said of other beasts that are knowne vnto vs. This supposed, I demand how it is possible that none of their kinde should remayne here? and how they are found there, being as it were Trauellers and Strangers? Truly it is a question that hath long held me in suspence. I say for example, if the sheepe of Peru, and those which they call Pacos and Guanacos, are not found in any other Regions of the world, [ 40] who hath carried them thither? or how came they there, seeing there is no shew nor remaynder of them in al this world? If they haue not passed from some other Region, how were they formed and brought forth there? It may bee God hath made a new creation of beasts! That which I speak of these Pacos and Guanacos may be said of a thousand diffe∣rent kinds of birds and beasts of the Forest, which haue neuer beene known, neither in shape nor name; and whereof there is no mention made, neither a∣mong [ 50] the Latines, nor Greekes, nor any other Nations of the world. Wee must then say, that though all beasts came out of the * 5.229 Arke, yet by a naturall in∣stinct, and the prouidence of Heauen, diuers kinds dispersed themselues into diuers Regions, where they found themselues so well, as they would not part; or if they departed, they did not preserue themselues, but in processe of time perished wholly, as we doe see it chance in many things. For if wee shall looke precisely into it, we shall finde that it is not proper and peculiar alone to the Indies, but ge∣nerall [ 60] to many other Nations and Prouinces of A∣sia, Europe, and Affrike, where they say there are certaine kindes of Creatures, that are not found in

other Regions, at the least if they be any where else, they are knowne to be carried from thence. Seeing then these Creatures came out of the Arke, as for example, the Elephant which wee finde onely in the East Indies, and from thence haue beene imparted to other Regions, wee may say as much of these Creatures of Peru, and of others of the Indies, which are not found in any other part of the World.

We may likewise consider well vpon this subiect, whether these beasts differ in kinde, and essentially from all others, or if this difference be accidentall, which might grow by diuers acci∣dents, as wee see in the linages of men, some are white, others blacke, some Giants, others Dwarfes: and in Apes, some haue no taile, others haue: and in Sheepe, some are bare, others haue fleeces; some great and strong with a long necke, as those of Peru; others weake and little, [ 10] hauing a short necke, as those of Castile. But to speake directly, who so would by this Discourse, shewing onely these accidentall differences, preserue the propagation of beasts at the Indies, and reduce them to those of Europe, hee shall vndertake a charge hee will hardly discharge with his honour. For if wee shall iudge the kindes of beasts by their properties, those of the Indies are so diuers, as it is to call an Egge a Chesnut, to seeke to reduce them to the knowne kindes of Europe.

Of Fowles that are proper to the Indies, and Venison.

THere are many kindes of notable Fowles at the Indies, either of the same sort that ours be, or [ 20] of different. They bring certaine birds from China, that haue no feete,* 5.230 and all their bodies are almost feathers. They sit not vpon the ground, but hang vpon boughs, by strings or feathers which they haue, and so rest themselues like Flies or ayrie things. In Peru there are birds which they call Tomineios, so small, that often-times I haue doubted seeing them flie,* 5.231 whether they were Bees or Butter-flies; but in truth they are birds. Contrariwise, those which they call Condores, be of an exceeding greatnesse, and of such a force,* 5.232 that not only they will open a sheep and eate it, but also a whole calfe. Those which they call Auras, and others Poullaze•• (which in my opinion are of the kinde of Rauens) are of a strange lightnesse, and haue a very quicke sight,* 5.233 being very fit to clense Cities, for that they leaue no Carrion nor dead thing. They passe the [ 30] night on Trees or vpon Rocks, and in the morning they come to the Cities and Townes, sitting on the tops of the highest buildings, where they attend their prey. Their yong haue white fea∣thers, as they report of Rauens, and so change into blacke.

The Guacamayac be birds bigger then Parrets, and resemble them something; they are estee∣med for the varietie of their feathers, which be very faire and pleasing. In new Spaine there are abundance of birds with excellent feathers, so as there bee not any found in Europe that comes neere them, as wee may see by the Images of feathers they bring from thence, the which are (with great reason) much valued and esteemed, giuing cause of admiration, that with the fea∣thers of birds, they should make so excellent a worke, and so perfectly equall,* 5.234 as they seeme properly to be the true colours of a Painter, and haue so liuely and pleasing a regard, as the Pain∣ter [ 40] cannot exceede it with his pencill and colours. Some Indians which are good and expert workmen in this Art, will represent perfectly in feathers, whatsoeuer they see drawne with the pencill, so as the Painters of Spaine, haue in this point, no aduantage ouer them. Don Philip the Prince of Spaine his Schoole-master, did giue vnto him three figures or portraitures made of fea∣thers, as it were to put in a Breuiarie. His Highnesse did shew them to King Philip his father, the which his Maiestie beholding attentiuely, said, that he had neuer seene in so small a worke, a thing of so great excellency and perfection. One day as they presented to Pope Sixtus Quin∣tus, another square bigger then it, wherein was the figure of Saint Francis, and that they had told him it was made of feathers by the Indians, he desired to make triall thereof, touching the table with his fingers, to see if it were of feathers; for that it seemed strange, to see them so properly [ 50] fitted, that the eye could not iudge nor discerne whether they were naturall colours of feathers, or artificiall done with the pencill. It is a goodly thing to see the ••ustre which a greene, an orange tawnie like gold, and other fine colours doe cast, and beholding them another way they seeme dead colours. They make the best and goodliest figures of feathers in the Prouince of Me∣chouacan▪ and in the village of Pascaro. The manner is with small delicate Pinsors they pull the feathers from the dead fowles, and with a fine paste they cunningly ioyne them together. They take the small and delicate feathers of those birds, which in Peru they call Tomineyos, or others like vnto them, which haue the most perfect colours in their feathers. The Indians (besides these Images) did vse feathers in many other most excellent workes, especially for the ornament of Kings and Noblemen, their Temples and Idols.

[ 60] There are also other great birds, which haue excellent and fine feathers, whereof they make plumes of sundrie colours, especially when they goe to warre, inriching them with gold and sil∣uer very artificially, which was a matter of great price. They haue the same birds still, but they are not so curious, neither doe they make so many gentill deuices as they were wont. There are other birds at the Indies, contrarie to these of so rich feathers, the which (besides that they are

ill-fauoured) serue to no other vse but for dung, and yet perchance they are of no lesse profit. I haue considered this, wondering at the prouidence of the Creator, who hath so appointed, that all Creatures should serue Man. In some Ilands or Phares, which are ioyning to the coast of Pe∣ru,* 5.235 we see the tops of the Mountaines all white, and to sight, you would take it for Snow, or for some white Land, but they are heapes of dung of Sea fowle which goe continually thither: and there is so great abundance, as it riseth many Elles, yea, many Lances in height, which seemes but a fable. They goe with boates to these Ilands, onely for the dung, for there is no other profit in them. And this dung is so commodious and profitable, as it makes the earth yeeld great a∣bundance of fruit. They call this dung Guano, whereof the Valley hath taken the name, which they call Limaguana, in the valleys of Peru, where they vse this dung, and it is the most ferrile [ 10] of all that Country. The Quinces, Pomegranets, and other fruits there, exceed all other in boun∣tie and greatnesse; and they say, the reason is, for that the water wherewith they water it, pas∣seth by a Land compassed with this dung.

* 5.236Besides the Beasts of Chase, whereof wee haue spoken, There are beasts called Sainos, made like small Hogs, which haue this singular to themselues, to haue their Nauill vpon the ridge of their backs: these goe by troupes through the Woods, they are cruell and nothing fearfull, but contrariwise they assaile, and haue their tallents sharpe as Rasors, wherewith they make dan∣gerous wounds and incisions, if such as hunt them put not themselues in safetie. Such as hunt them (for the more safer killing of them) climbe vp into Trees, whither the Sainos or Hogs come presently in troupes, biting the Tree when they cannot hurt the man, and then with their Lances they kill what they will. They are very good to eate, but they must of necessitie [ 20] cut off the round piece where the Nauill growes vpon the backe; for otherwise, within a day they corrupt. There is another kinde of little beast like to sucking Pigges, and they call them Guadatinaias. I am in doubt whether there were any Swine at the Indies, before the Spaniards came thither, like to these in Spaine, for that in the discouerie of the Ilands of Soloman, it is said, they found * 5.237 Hennes and Swine of Spaine. But howsoeuer it be, it is most certaine, that this Cattell hath greatly multiplyed at the Indies. They eate the flesh fresh, and hold it to bee as wholesome and as good, as if it were of Mutton; as in Carthagene in some parts, they are become wilde and cruell, the which they hunt like wilde Boares, as wee see in Saint Domi∣nique, and other Ilands where the beasts liue in the Forests. In some places they feede them with the graine of Mays, and they grow wonderfully fat, to haue the grease, which they [ 30] vse for want of Oile; in some places they make Gamons, as in Tolluca of new Spaine, and in Pari•• at Peru. Returning then to such beasts as are peculiar there, euen as the Sainos are like vnto Swine,* 5.238 though somewhat lesse; euen so the Dantes resemble small Kine, but more vnto Mules, hauing no hornes. The Hides of these beasts are much esteemed for jerkins and other co∣uerings, they are so hard as they resist any blow whatsoeuer. And as the Dantes be defended by the hardnesse of their Hides, so those which they call Armadillos are by the multitude of their scales,* 5.239 which open and shut as they please like to a Curasse. There bee little beasts which goe through the Woods, called Armadillos, by reason of the defence they haue hiding themselues within their scales, and opening when they list: I haue eaten of them, and doe not hold it for a meate of any great worth; but the flesh of the Yguanas is a better meate, but more horrible [ 40] to the eye:* 5.240 for they are like to the very Lizardes of Spaine, although they bee of a doubtfull kinde, for that they goe to the Water, and comming to Land they climbe the Trees vpon the bankes; and as they cast themselues from the Trees into the water, the Boates watch vnder∣neath to receiue them. The Chinchilles is an other kinde of small beasts, like Squirrels, they haue a wonderfull smoothe and soft skin,* 5.241 which they weare as a healthfull thing to comfort the stomacke, and those parts that haue neede of a moderate heate; they make Couerings and Rugs of the haire of these Chinchilles, which are found on the Sierre of Peru, where there is likewise a small beast very common, which they call Cuyes, and which the Indians hold for a very good meate,* 5.242 and they are accustomed often to offer these Cuyes in their sacrifices. They are like small [ 50] Conies, and haue their borrowes in the ground, and in some places they haue vndermined all the Land: some are grey, some white, and some speckled. There are other small Animals which they call Viscachas,* 5.243 and are like to Hares, although they bee bigger, they hunt them and eate the flesh. Of common Hares there are great store in some parts. There are also Conies in the Realme of Quitto, but the good are come from Spaine. There is another strange beast, the which for his great heauinesse,* 5.244 and slownesse in moouing, they call Perico-ligero, or the little light Dogge, hee hath three nailes to euery hand, and mooues both hand and feete, as it were by compasse and very heauily: it is in face like to a Monkey, and hath a shrill crie; it climeth Trees, and eates Ants.

* 5.245Throughout all the Mountaines, either of these Ilands of the firme Land, or of the Andes, [ 60] there are infinite numbers of Micos or Monkeys, which are a kinde of Apes, but very diffe∣rent, in that they haue a taile, yea a very long one. And amongst them there are some kindes which are thrice, yea foure times bigger then the ordinarie; some are all blacke, some bay, some grey, and some spotted. Their agilitie and manner of doing is admirable, for that they

seeme to haue reason and discourse to goe vpon Trees, wherein they seeme to imitate Birds. Going from Nombre de Dios to Panama, I did see in Capira, one of these Monkeys leape from one Tree to an other, which was on the other side of a Riuer, making me much to wonder.* 5.246 They leape where they list, winding their tailes about a branch to shake it: and when they will leape further then they can at once, they vse a pretie deuice, tying themselues by the tailes one of another, and by this meanes make as it were a chaine of many: then doe they lanch themselues forth, and the first holpen by the force of the rest, takes hold where he list, and so hangs to a bough, and helpes all the rest, till they be gotten vp. It were long to report the fooleries, tricks, trauerses, and pleasant sports they make when they are taught, which seeme [ 10] not to come from bruit beasts, but from a manlike vnderstanding.* 5.247 I saw one in Carthagene in the Gouernours house, so taught, as the things he did seemed incredible: they sent him to the Tauerne for wine, putting the pot in one hand, and the money in the other; and they could not possibly get the money out of his hand, before he had his pot full of wine. If any children met him in the street, and threw any stones at him, hee would set his pot downe on the one side, and cast stones against the children till hee had assured his way, then would hee returne to carry home his pot. And which is more, although he were a good Bibber of wine (as I haue oftentimes seene him drinke, when his Master hath giuen it him) yet would hee neuer touch it vntill leaue was giuen him. They told me moreouer, that if he saw any women painted, he would fall vpon them, pull off their attire, and would seeke to bite them.* 5.248

[ 20] Amongst the most remarkable things at the Indies of Peru, be the Vicugnes, and sheepe of the Countrie, as they call them, which are tractable beasts and of great profit;* 5.249 the Vicugnes are wilde, and the Sheepe are tame. Some thinke that the Vicugnes are those which Aristotle, Plinie, and other Authors call Capreas, which are wilde Goats, and in truth they haue some resemblance, for the lightnesse they haue in the Woods and Mountaines, but yet they are no Goates, for the Vicugnes haue no hornes, as those haue, whereof Aristotle makes mention; neither are they the Goates of the East Indies, from whom they draw the Bezar stone; for if they be of that kinde, it were a diuerse one, as in the race of Dogs, the Mastife is diuerse from the Grey-hound. The Vicugnes of Peru are not those beasts which carry the Bezar stone, in the Prouince of new Spaine, which there they call Bezaars, for that they are a kinde of Stags [ 30] and Venison; yet doe I not know in any part of the World there bee any of these beasts, but in Peru, and in Chille, which are Countries ioyning one to another. These Vicugnes are grea∣ter then Goates, and lesse then Calues. Their haire is of the colour of dried Roses, somewhat cleerer; they haue no hornes like Stags and Goates. They feede vpon the highest tops of the Mountaines, which they call Pugnas. The Snow nor Frost doth not offend them, but con∣trariwise they seeme to delight in it. They goe in troupes, and runne most lightly; when they meete with any Trauellers or Beasts, they flie away, seeming very fearefull, and in fly∣ing they driue their yong ones before them. They doe not finde that they multiply much: and therefore the Kings Ing••as did defend the hunting of Vicugnes; if it were not for their feasts, or by their commandement. Some complaine, that since the Spaniards entred there, they haue [ 40] giuen too much libertie to hunt the Vicugnes, and by this meanes they are much diminished. The manner the Indians vse in their hunting, they assemble many men together,* 5.250 to the num∣ber of a thousand or two thousand, yea more, and inuironing a great circuit of wood, they hunt their game vntill they haue compassed it in on all parts, and by this meanes they com∣monly take three or foure hundred, and so choosing what they lift, they let goe the rest, espe∣cially the Females for breede. They are accustomed to sheere these beasts, and of their fleece to make Couerings and Rugges of great value, for that this wooll is like to white silke, which lasts long: and as the colour is naturall and not dyed, so is it perpetuall. The stuffes that are made of this wooll, are very fresh and good in Summer, and they hold them profitable for the inflammation of the reines, and other parts, tempering the excessiue heate. This wooll hath the like vertue when it is made in Quilts, and therefore some vse it to that end, for the triall [ 50] they haue made thereof. They say moreouer, that this wooll or couerings made thereof, is physicall for other indispositions, as for the gowt: yet doe I not know that they haue made any certaine triall thereof. The flesh of these Vicugnes is not good, although the Indians eate it, and drie it. For the effects of physicke, I will say what I haue seene vpon the Sierre of Peru, com∣ming one night into a Tambo or Inne, being much afflicted with paine in mine eyes, thinking they would fall out (the which doth commonly happen in those parts) for that they passe through places couered with snow, which is the cause of this accident.* 5.251 Being troubled with this paine, and out of patience, there came an Indian woman which said to me, Father, lay this to thine eyes, and thou shalt bee cured. It was a piece of the flesh of Vicugnes newly killed and all [ 60] bloudie. I vsed this medicine, and presently the paine ceased, and soone after went quite away. Besides these Chacos which is the most common manner of hunting at the Indies, they haue v∣sed another more priuate to take them, which is, that comming neere, they doe cast certaine lines with plummets of lead, which intangle their legges, so as they cannot runne, and by this meanes they take the Vicugne. The chiefe reason why this beast is esteemed, is, by reason of

the Bezars stone they finde in them, whereof wee will intreate hereafter. There is another kinde of beasts,* 5.252 which they call Tarugues, which likewise are wilde, and more ni••ble then the Vicugnes. They are greater of body, and more hot. They haue soft eares and hanging: they goe not in troupes as tke Vicugnes. I haue not seene them but alone, and most commonly in high places. They also draw Bezars stones from these Tarugues, which are greater, and haue more o∣peration and vertue.

* 5.253There is nothing at Peru of greater riches and profit then the Cattell of the Country, which our men call Indian Sheepe, and the Indians in their generall language call them Lama. For all things well considered, it is a beast of the greatest profit and least charge of any that I know: from them they draw meate and clothing, as from the sheepe of Spaine. Moreouer, they haue the be∣nefit [ 10] to carry all things they haue need of, vsing them to beare their burthens: and they haue no need either of shooes or saddles, nor yet of oates, but he serueth his Master for nought, feeding on the grasse he findes in the fields; so as God hath furnished them of Sheepe and Mares, and all in one beast. And as it is a poore Nation, so would hee in this point free them from charge, for that there is much pasture vpon the Sierre: and this kinde of Cattell hath no need of any other charge.* 5.254 There are two kindes of these Sheepe or Lamas, the one they call Pacos, or sheepe bea∣ring wooll, and the others are bare, and haue little wooll, so are they better for burthen; they are bigger then great Sheepe, and lesse then Calues, they haue a very long necke, like to a Camel, whereof they haue good need: for being high of stature, they haue need of a long necke, else should they be deformed. They are of diuers colours, some all white, others all blacke, some grey [ 20] and some spotted, which they call Moromoro. The Indians had great superstitions in choosing the beasts for sacrifices, of what colour they should bee, according to the diuersitie of Seasons and Sacrifices. Their flesh is good, although it be hard, but that of their Lambs is the better, and the most delicate that can be eaten: yet they eate not many, for that the chiefe fruit and profit they yeeld, is their wooll, to make clothes, and their seruice to carry burdens. The Indians make stuffes of this wooll wherewith they clothe themselues: the one is grosse and com∣mon, which they call Hanaca, and the other fine and delicate, which they call Cumbi, they make Carpets and Couerings, and other exquisite workes, which last long, and haue a very faire lustre, like halfe silke: and that which is most rare, is their manner of weauing their workes, being both sides alike, so as you shall not finde any end in a whole piece. The Ingua [ 30] King of Peru had many chiefe workmen, to make this worke of Cumbi: and the which, for the most part, were resident in the Prouince of Capachica, ioyning to the great Lake of Titicaca. They die this wooll into diuers fine colours, with sundrie kindes of herbs, whereof they make many sorts of workes both course and fine. All the Indians, both men and women, worke in the Sierre, and haue their Loomes in their houses, hauing no need to buy any stuffes for their neces∣sarie vses. Of the flesh of these sheepe they make Cuscharg••i, or dryed flesh, the which will last very long, whereof they make great account. They are accustomed to driue troupes of these sheepe with burthens, and to goe in bands, three hundred, fiue hundred, yea a thousand in a companie, with Wine, Mays, Coca, Chuno, Quick-siluer, and all other kindes of merchandise, and of Siluer, which is the best of all. They carry barres of Siluer from Potozi to Ariqua, which [ 40] is three score and ten leagues. I haue often wondered to see these troupes of sheepe laden with a thousand or two thousand barres of Siluer, and much more, which is aboue three hundred thou∣sand ducats, without any other guard or resort then some Indians, which serue onely to guide these sheepe, and to lade and vnlade them, or at the most, some few Spaniards: and they sleepe all night in the middest of the fields, without other guard: and yet in so long a way and so weake a guard, they neuer finde want or losse of any thing in so great a treasure of Siluer, so safe is the way in Peru. The burthen which one of these sheepe doth commonly carry, is of foure or sixe Arrobes:* 5.255 when their voyage is long they goe not aboue two, three, or foure leagues at the most on a day. Those that guide those troupes, haue their ordinarie lodgings, where they are assured to haue water and pasture, and there they vnlade and set vp their Tents, making fire, and dres∣sing [ 50] their meates, which is not painfull, although it be a flegmatike and slow manner of trauell. When there is but one dayes iourney, one of these sheepe will beare eight Arrobes in weight, or more, and beares this burthen eight or ten leagues in a day, as the poore Souldiers were wont to doe, when they marched through Peru. This kinde of Cattell delights most in a cold aire, and for this cause they liue vpon the Sierre, and die in the Lanos, by reason of the heate. Some∣times these sheepe are all couered with Ice and frost, and yet they continue sound and well The bare sheepe are pleasant to behold, for they will stay vpon the way, raysing vp their necks, and will looke vpon any one very wistly, and so they remaine a long time, without moouing or any shew of feare, which giueth occasion of laughter, seeing them thus to stand. And yet sometimes they doe grow amazed sodainly, and runne away with their burthens, euen to the highest Rocks, so as not being able to come vnto them, they are constrayned to kill them with an [ 60] Harquebuze, lest they should lose their barres of Siluer, which they sometimes carry. The Pacos will grow reastie vnder their burthens, lying down, and will endure to be cut in a thousand pieces before they will rise when this humor takes them: wherof the prouerb growes in Peru, to say that one

is reastie, to signifie, he is obstinate; for that when any of these beasts is moodie, it is with ex∣cesse: the remedie they haue is, to stay and sit downe by the Paco, making much on him, vntill the fit be past, and that he rise: and sometimes they are forced to stay two or three houres. They haue a disease like to scabs, which they call Carache, whereof they commonly die. The An∣cients had a remedie, to burie them quicke that had the Carache, lest they should infect the rest, being a very contagious disease, and goes from one to another. An Indian that hath one or two of these sheepe, is not reputed poore, for one of them is worth sixe or seuen pieces of assay, and more, according to the time and places.

The Bezaars stone is found in all these beasts before mentioned, which are proper to Peru, [ 10] whereof some Authors of our time haue written whole bookes,* 5.256 which they may reade that de∣sire to haue a more particular knowledge. For the present subiect it shall be sufficient to say, that this stone which they call Bezaar, is found in the stomacke and belly of this beast, sometimes one alone, sometimes two, three, and foure. They are very different in forme, greatnesse and colour, for that some are small like Filberds, and lesse; others like Walnuts; some like Pid∣geons egges, and others as bigge as a Hens egge: and I haue seene some as bigge as an Orange; in forme some are round, others in fashion like to Lentils, and many other formes. For their co∣lour, some are blacke, some white, some grey, darke greene, and others, as if they had beene gil∣ded. It is no certaine rule to iudge the best and most fine by the colour or forme. All these stones are made and fashioned of diuers films and skins one vpon another. In the Prouince of Xaura and [ 20] other Prouinces of Peru, they finde these stones in diuers kindes of beasts, both wilde and tame, as in the Guanacos, Pacos, Vicugnes, and Tarugues, some adde an other kinde, which they say are wilde Goates, which the Indians call Cypris. These other kindes of beasts are very well known in Peru, whereof we haue alreadie discoursed. The Guanacos or Countrie sheepe, or Pacos, haue commonly the lesser stones, and blacke, neither are they so much approued for the vse of phy∣sicke. They draw the greatest Bezaar stones from the Vicugnes, and they are grey, or white, or of a darke greene, which are held for the better. They esteeme those of the Tarugues for the most excellent, whereof there are some reasonable bigge: they are commonly white, inclining to grey; and they haue the filmes commonly bigger and thicker then the rest.

They finde the Bezaar stone equally both in Male and Female. All beasts that ingender it, [ 30] chaw the cuid, and commonly feede vpon the Snow and Rocks. The Indians report and teach by tradition from their Fathers and Ancients, that in the Prouince of Xaura, and in other Pro∣uinces of Peru, there are many herbs and venemous beasts, which poison the water and the pa∣stures where they eate and drinke, and where they breathe: amiddest which venemous herbs there is one very well knowne of the Vicugne, by a naturall instinct, and of other beasts that in∣gender the Bezaar stone, which eate this herbe, and by meanes thereof they preserue themselues from the poisoned waters and pastures: and they say, that of this herbe the stone is compoun∣ded in the stomacke, whence it drawes all the vertue against poison, and other wonderfull ef∣fects. This is the opinion and tradition of the Indians, discouered by men of great experience in the Kingdome of Peru, which agrees with reason,* 5.257 and with that which Plinie reports of the [ 40] Mountaines Goats, which are nourished and fed vpon poison without suffering any harme. The Indians being demanded, why the Sheepe, Kine, Goats, and Calues, such as are in Castile, haue not the Bezaar stone, seeing that they feede on the same Rocks: their answere is, That they beleeue not, that those beasts of Castile eate of that herbe, or that they haue found the Bezaar stone in Stags and fallow Deere. This seemes to agree with our knowledge, for that in new Spaine they finde the Bezaar stone, although there be no Vicugnes, Pacos, Tarugues, nor Guanacos, but onely Stags, in some of which they finde these stones.

One thing is worthy admiration, that they grow and are fashioned vpon very strange things, as vpon the tagge of a Point, vpon a Pin, or a piece of Wood, which they finde in the centre of this stone, and yet doe they not hold it false, for that the beast might swallow it, and the stone thicken vpon it, and growes one vpon another, and so it increaseth. I did [ 50] see in Peru, two stones fashioned vpon Pignons of Castile, which made vs to wonder much, for that in all Peru, wee had not seene any Pines or Pignons of Castile, if they were not brought from Spaine, which seemes to mee very extraordinarie. This little may suffice touching the Bezaars stone. They bring other physicall stones from the Indies, as the stone of Hyiada, or of Rate, the bloud stone, the stones of Milke, and of the Sea. Those which they call Corneri∣nas, for the Heart, whereof there is no neede to speake, hauing nothing common with the subiect of beasts, whereof wee haue intreated: which giues vs to vnderstand how the great Master and Author of all, hath imparted his benefits and wonderfull secrets, to all parts of the World; for the which he is to be glorified for euer.

[ 60]

REader, I haue here added this worke, for the better and more particular knowledge of the Naturall Historie of the West Indies. This Authour Gonzalo Ferdinando de Ouiedo did first write a Summarie to Charles the fifth (out of which the most part of this is taken) An. 1525. and after that

writ his Generall Historie, enlarging what he had written before this Summarie; and in the diuiding it into three Parts: the first of which contayning principally the Spanish acts and Naturall obseruations in the Ilands, in twentie Bookes, wee haue in Ramusios third Tome of Voyages: the second (in which bee writ of the Continent of New Spaine, and the third of Peru and the Southerne America, with aboue foure hundred pictures of the Plants, Beasts, and other Creatures of those parts, were neuer published; to the great losse of naturall knowledge of those parts. As for the Spanish acts we haue them sufficient∣ly written by others. But Acosta and Ouiedo haue best deserued of the studious of Nature, that is, of the knowledge of God in his workes. In which respect I haue added many things omitted by Master E∣den, and Master Willes in the former publication, both examining this, and translating the rest from Ramusios Italian edition. [ 10]

CHAP. III. Extracts of GONZALO FERDINANDO DE OVIEDO his Summarie and Generall Historie of the Indies.

Of the mynes of gold, and the manner of working in them.

THis particular of the mynes of Gold, is a thing greatly to be noted, and I may much better speake hereof then any other man, forasmuch as there are now twelue [ 20] yeeres past since I serued in the place of the Surueyor of the melting shops, per∣tayning to the gold mynes of the firme Land, and was the Gouernor of the mynes of the Catholike King Don Ferdinando, after whole departure from this life, I ser∣ued long in the same roome in the Name of your Maiestie. The myne or veine which ought to be followed, ought to be in a place which may stand to saue much of the charges of the Labourers, and for the administration of other necessarie things, that the charges may bee recompenced with gaynes. The greatest part of the wrought gold which the Indians haue, is base,* 6.1 and holdeth somewhat of Copper: of this they make Bracelets and Chaines, and in the same they close their Iewels which their Women are accustomed to weare, and esteemed more then all the riches of the World. The manner how gold is gathered, is this, either of such as is [ 30] found in Zauana, that is to say, in the Plaines and Riuers of the Champaine country being with∣out Trees, whether the Earth be with grasse or without, or of such as is sometimes found on the Land without the Riuers in places where Trees grow, so that to come by the same, it shall be requisite to cut downe many and great Trees. But after which soeuer of these two manners it be found,* 6.2 either in the Riuers or Breaches of waters, or else in the earth, I will shew how it is found in both these places, and how it is separate and purged. Therefore when the myne or veine is discouered, this chanceth by searching and prouing in such places as by certaine signes and to∣kens doe appeare to skilfull men apt for the generation of gold, and to hold gold: and when they haue found it, they follow the myne, and labour it, whether it be in the Riuer, or in the Playne, as I haue said. And if it be found on the Playne, first they make the place very cleane where they [ 40] intend to digge, then they digge eight or ten foot in length, and as much in breadth: but they goe no deeper then a span or two, or more, as shall seeme best to the Master of the myne, digging equally,* 6.3 then they wash all the earth which they haue taken out of the said space, and if herein they finde any gold they follow it, and if not, they digge a span deeper, and wash the earth as they did before: and if then also they finde nothing, they continue in digging and washing the earth as before, vntill they come to the hard rocke or stone: and if in fine they finde no gold there, they follow no further to seeke gold in that place, but goe to another part. And it is to be vnderstood, that when they haue found the myne, they follow it in digging, in the same mea∣sure in leuell and depth, vntill they haue made an end of all the myne which that place contay∣neth,* 6.4 if it appeare to be rich. This myne ought to consist of certaine feet or pases in length or [ 50] breadth, according to certaine orders determined, and within that compasse of earth, it is not lawfull for any other to digge for gold: And where as endeth the myne of him that first found the gold, immediatly it is lawfull for any other man that will, with a staffe to assigne himselfe a place by the side of the same, inclosing it with stakes or pales as his owne. These mynes of Za∣uana (that is, such as are found in the Playnes) ought euer to bee sought neere to some Riuer or Brooke, or Spring of water, or Dike, or standing Poole, to the end that the gold may be washed, for the which purpose they vse the labour of certaine Indians,* 6.5 as they doe other in digging of the myne. And when they haue digged out the myne, they fill certaine Trayes with that earth, which other Indians haue the charge immediatly to receiue at their hands, and to carry those Trayes of earth to the water, where it may be washed: Yet doe not they that bring it wash it, [ 60] but deliuer it to other, putting it out of their owne Trayes into theirs, which they haue readie in their hands to receiue it. These Washers for the most part are the Indian women, because this worke is of lesse paine and trauell then any other.* 6.6 These women when they wash, are accusto∣med to fit by the water side, with their legges in the water euen vp to the knees, or lesse, as the

place serueth their purpose: and thus holding the Trayes with earth in their hands by the han∣dles thereof, and putting the same into the water, they mooue them round about, after the man∣ner of sifting, with a certaine aptnesse, in such sort that there entreth no more water into the Trayes then serueth their turne, and with the selfe same apt mouing of their Trayes in the wa∣ter, they euer auoid the foule water with the earth out of the one side of the Vessell, and re∣ceiue in cleane water on the other side thereof, so that by this means by little and little, the water washeth the earth as the lighter substance of the Trayes, and the Gold as the heauier matter re∣steth in the bottome of the same, being round and hollow in the middest like vnto a Barbars Ba∣sen. And when all the earth is auoided, and the Gold gathered together in the bottome of the [ 10] Tray, they put it a part, and returne to take more earth, which they wash continually as before. Furthermore it is to be noted, that for euery two Indians that wash,* 6.7 it is requisite that two o∣ther serue them to bring earth from the Mine, and other two to breake the same small, and fill their Trayes therewith. Also beside these Labourers, it is necessarie that there be other people in the place where they worke and rest in the night: these are such as make their bread, and pro∣uide for victuals, and other necessaries. So that to conclude, there are in all, fiue persons ordina∣rily assigned to euery Tray of washers.* 6.8

There is another manner of working the Mines, in Riuers or Brookes of running waters: and this is, that in auoyding the water of his course, after that the beds of the Riuers are dry and vt∣terly emptied, they find Gold among the breaches, clifts, and rifts of stones, and among all that [ 20] is in the bottome of the Channell, and where naturally the Riuer runneth of greatest force: So that it chanceth sometime, that when the bed of the Riuer is good and rich,* 6.9 they find in it great quantitie of Gold. And therefore your Maiestie ought to vnderstand for a generall rule, as it ap∣peareth in fact, that all Gold is ingendred in the tops and highest places of the Mountaines,* 6.10 and incontinuance of time is by little and little brought downe to the Vales and Plaines by showres of raine, and the fals of Springs, Riuers, and Brookes, hauing their originall in the Mountaines, and descending from the same, notwithstanding it is oftentimes found in the Plaines farre from the Mountains. But when it chanceth to be found in great quantity, it is for the most part among the Mountaines, and in the Riuers, or their branches, more then in any other part of the Plaine: and in these two manners it is commonly found most abundantly. And for the better proose [ 30] that Gold is ingendred on high, and is brought downe into the low places, I haue one great to∣ken thereof, which causeth me to beleeue it for certaine: and this is▪ to consider that coles neuer putrifie nor corrupt vnder the ground, if they be made of strong wood. Whereby it chanceth, that digging the earth by the foulds or indented places of the Mountaines, or on the sides,* 6.11 and breaking a Mine in the earth, where it had beene broken before, and hauing now digged one or two or three Poles in measure, the Miners found certaine coles of wood vnder the same leuell where they found Gold, and this I say in the earth which was taken for a Virgin, that is to say, such as had not before beene opened for any Mine: the which coles could not naturally bee in∣gendred there, or enter in by any meanes, but when the superficiall part of the earth was equall with the leuell where the coles were found, it is like that the coles were left there by some occa∣sion [ 40] of fire, and that they fastened there in time, and that afterward in long continuance of time, they were by little and little couered with the earth, which the often showres of raine washed from the Mountaines, so that by the course of yeeres the earth ouergrew the coles vnto the said leuell and measure, which had before time beene the superficiall part of the earth, where the coles and Gold were found together:* 6.12 whereby it may appeare that the Gold was no more in∣gendred there then were the coles, but brought thither from the Mountaynes by the falls of wa∣ters as we haue said, forasmuch as the Mountaines are the Matrices and bowels of all rich Metals. Further and beside this, I say that in how much more the Gold is gone farre from the naturall place of this generation to the place where it is found, it is so much the more purified and fined, and of a better caract, and the neerer that it is found to his proper Mine or veine where it is in∣gendred, it is so much the baser, fouler, and more crude, and of a baser alay and caract, and doth [ 50] waste so much the more in melting, and remayneth more brickle.

Sometimes there are found graines of Gold of great quantitie,* 6.13 and of great weight aboue the earth, and sometimes also vnder the earth: And the greatest of all other that was found to this day in the Indies, was that which was lost in the Sea about the Iland Beata, which weighed three thousand and two hundred of Castellans of God, which are in value foure thousand a hun∣dred thirtie and eight Ducats of Gold, which weigh one Arroua and seuen pound, or thirtie and two pound, after twelue ounces to the pound, which make threescore and foure Markes of Gold.* 6.14 And I saw in the yeere 1515. in the hands of Michel Passamonte Treasurer to your Ma∣iestie, two graines, of the which one weighed seuen pounds, which are fourteene Markes, and [ 60] are in value about three score and fiue Ducats of Gold euery Marke: the other was of ten Marks, which are fiue pounds of like value, and of very good Gold of two and twentie caracts, and bet∣ter: The••e are also found many other great graines, although not equall vnto these in bignesse. And forasmuch as I haue spoken of Gold, I haue thought good to declare somewhat how the In∣dians can very excellently gild such Vessels of Copper and base Gold as they make: for they can

giue them so faire and flourishing a colour, that all the masse which they gilt, appeareth as though it were Gold of two and twentie caracts, and better. This colour they giue with a certaine hearbe, as though it were wrought by the art of any Gold-smith of Spaine or Italie, and would of them be esteemed as a thing of great riches and a secret manner of gilding. For the desire that our men haue to Gold, they nothing esteeme the Copper, although there might great com∣moditie and profit be had thereby, and also by other Metals, which they nothing regard, except Siluer, which is found abundantly in that part of the firme Land which is called New Spaine.

Of the manner of fishing for Pearles.

THe Indians exercise this kind of fishing for the most part in the Coasts of the North in Cu∣bagua [ 10] and Cumana, and many of them which dwell in the Houses of certaine particular Lords in the Ilands of San Dominico and Sancti Iohannis, resort to the Iland of Cubagua, for this purpose. Their custome is to goe fiue, sixe, or seuen, or more in one of their Canoas or Barkes, earely in the morning to some place in the Sea thereabout, where it appeareth vnto them that there should be great plentie of those shell fishes (which some call Muscles, and some Oysters) wherein Pearles are ingendred, and there they plunge themselues vnder the water, euen vnto the bottome, sauing one that remayneth in the Canoa or Boat, which hee keepeth still in one place as neere as he can, looking for their returne out of the water: And when one of them hath beene a good while vnder the water, he riseth vp, and commeth swimming to the Boat, entring into the same, and leauing there all the Oysters which he hath taken and brought with him (for [ 20] in these are the Pearles found) and when he hath there rested himselfe a while, and eaten part of the Oysters, he returneth againe to the water, where hee remayneth as long as hee can en∣dure, and then riseth againe, and swimmeth to the Boat with his prey, where hee resteth him as before, and thus continueth course by course, as doe all the other in like manner, being all most expert Swimmers and Diuers: and when the night draweth neere, they returne to the I∣land to their houses, and present all the Oysters to the Master or Steward of the house of their Lord, who hath the charge of the said Indians, and when he hath giuen them somewhat to eate, he layeth vp the Oysters in safe custodie, vntill he haue a great quantitie thereof, then he causeth the same Fishermen to open them, and they find in euery of them Pearles, other great or small, two, or three, or foure, and sometimes fiue or sixe, and many small graines, according to the li∣beralitie [ 30] of nature. They saue the Pearles both small and great which they haue found, and either eate the Oysters if they will, or cast them away, hauing so great a quantitie thereof, that they in manner abhorre them. These Oysters are of hard flesh, and not so pleasant in eating as are ours of Spaine. This Iland of Cubagua▪ where this manner of fishing is exercised, is in the North Coast, and is no bigger then the Iland of Zeland. Oftentimes the Sea increaseth greatly, and much more then the Fishers for Pearles would, because whereas the place is very deepe, a man cannot naturally rest at the bottom, by reason of the abundance of airie substance which is in him, as I haue oftentimes proued. For although he may by violence and force descend to the bottome, yet are his feet lifted vp againe, so that hee can continue no time there: and therefore where the Sea is very deepe, these Indian Fishers vse to tye two great stones about them with a coard, on [ 40] each side one, by the weight whereof they descend to the bottome, and remayne there vntill them listeth to rise againe, at which time they vnlose the stones, and rise vp at their pleasure. But this their aptnesse and agilitie in swimming, is not the thing that causeth men most to mar∣uell:* 6.15 but rather to consider how many of them can stand in the bottome of the water for the space of one whole houre, and some more or lesse, according as one is more apt hereunto then an other. An other thing there is which seemeth to me very strange: and this is, that whereas I haue oftentimes demanded of some of these Lords of the Indians, if the place where they are ac∣customed to fish for Pearles, being but little and narrow, will not in short time be vtterly with∣out Oysters, if they consume them so fast: They all answered mee, that although they be consu∣med in one part,* 6.16 yet if they goe a fishing in an other part, or an other Coast of the Iland, or at an [ 50] other contrary wind, and continue fishing there also vntill the Oysters bee likewise consumed, and then returne againe to the first place, or any other place where they fished before, and emp∣tied the same in like manner, they find them againe as full of Oysters as though they had neuer beene fished.* 6.17 Whereby we may iudge, that these Oysters either remoue from one place to an o∣ther, as doe other fishes, or else that they are ingendred and increase in certaine ordinarie places. This Iland of Cumana and Cubagua, where they fish for these Pearles, is in the twelfth degree of the part of the said Coast which inclineth toward the North. Likewise Pearles are found and gathered in the South Sea, called Mare del Sur, and the Pearles of this Sea are very bigge, yet not so bigge as they of the Iland of Pearles, called de las Perlas, or Margarita, which the Indians call Terarequi, lying in the Gulfe of Saint Michael, where greater Pearles are found, and of [ 60] greater price, then in any other Coast of the North Sea, in Cumana, or any other part. I speake this as a true testimonie of sight, hauing beene long in that South Sea, and making curious inqui∣sition to be certainly informed of all that pertayneth to the fishing of Pearles. From this Iland of Terarequi,* 6.18 there was brought a Pearle of the fashion of a Peare, weighing thirtie and one

Caracts, which Petrus Arias had among a thousand and so many pounds weight of other Pearles, which he had when Captaine Gaspar Morales (before Petrus Arias) p••ssed to the said Iland in the yeare 1515. which Pearle was of great price. From the said Iland also,* 6.19 came a great and ve∣ry round Pearle, which I brought out of the Sea, this was as bigge as a small pellet of a Stone∣bow, and of the weight of twentie and sixe Caracts: I bought it in the Citie of Panama, in the Sea of Sur, and paid for it sixe hundred and fiftie times the weight thereof of good Gold, and had it three yeeres in my custodie, and after my returne into Spaine, sold it to the Earle of Nan∣sa•• Marquesse of Zenet•••• great Chamberlaine to your Maiestie, who gaue it to the Marquesse his Wife, the Ladie Mentia of Mendoza. I thinke verily that this Pearle was the greatest, fairest, [ 10] and roundest that hath beene seene in those parts. For your Maiestie ought to vnderstand, that in the Coast of the Sea of Sur,* 6.20 there are found a hundred great Pearles round after the fashion of a Peare, to one that is perfectly round and great.

Of the familiaritie which certayne of the Indians haue with the Deuill, and how they receiue answere of him of things to come, and other Superstitions.

WHen the Indians beginne their battaile, or goe to any combate, or attempt any other great mater, they haue certaine elect men, whom they reuerently esteeme, and call [ 20] them Tequinas, which in their tongue is as much to say as Masters: notwithstanding that they call euery man, that is cunning in any Science, by the same name, as Fishers, Fowlers, Hunters, or makers of Nets. These Tequinas therefore, they call the Masters of their Answeres, because they speake with Tuyra, that is, the Deuill, and bring them answere what he saith,* 6.21 either as tou∣ching such things as they haue to doe, or shall chance to them the day following, or many dayes to come. For the Deuill, being so ancient an Astronomer, knoweth the times of things, and seeth how they are naturally directed and inclined, and maketh them beleeue that they come so to passe by his ordinance, as though he were the Lord and moouer of all that is and shall be, and that he giueth the day light, and raine, causeth te••pest, and ruleth the stations of times, giuing life, or taking away life, at his pleasure: By reason whereof, the Indians being deceiued of him, and [ 30] seeing also such effects to come certainly to passe as he hath told them before, beleeue him in all other things, and honour him in many places with Sacrifices of the bloud and liues of men, and odoriferous Spices: And when God disposeth the contrary to that which the Deuill hath spoken in Oracle, whereby he is prooued a Lyer, hee causeth the Tequinas to perswade the people that he hath changed his mind and sentence for some of their sins, or deuiseth some such lye as liketh him best, being a skilfull Master in such subtill and craftie deuices, to deceiue the simple and ig∣norant people, which hath small defence against so mightie and craftie an Aduersarie. And as they call the Deuill Tuyra, so doe they in many places call the Christians by the same name, thinking that they greatly honour them thereby, as indeed it is a name very fit and agreeable to many of them, hauing laid apart all honestie and vertue, liuing more like Dragons then men, [ 40] among these simple people.

Before the Inhabitants of the Iland of Hispaniola had receiued the Christian Faith, there was among them a Sect of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, which liued solitarily in the Desarts and Woods, and led their life in Silence and Abstinence more streightly then euer did the Philosophers of Pythagoras Sect,* 6.22 abstaining in like manner 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the eating of all things that liue by bloud, contented onely with such Fruites, Herbes, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as the Deserts and Woods ministred vnto them to eate: The Professors of this Sect were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 P••aces. They gaue themselues to the knowledge of naturall things, and vsed certaine secret ••••gicall Operations and Superstitions, whereby they had fami∣liaritie with Spirits, which they a••ured into their owne bodies, at such times as they would take vpon them to tell of t••ings to come, which they did in manner as followeth. When any [ 50] of the Kings had occasion to call any of them ••ut of the Desarts for this purpose, their custome was to send them a portio•• of their fine Bread of Cazabi or Maiz, and with humble request and suite to desire them 〈…〉〈…〉 them of such things as they would demand. After the request granted, and the place a•• day appointed, the Piaces commeth with two of his Disciples wayting on him, where the one bringeth with him a Vessell of a secret Water, and the other a little Siluer Bell When hee commeth to the place, hee sitteth downe on a round seate made for him of purpose ••here hauing his Disciples the one standing on the one hand, and the other on the other,* 6.23 euen the presence of the King and certaine of his Nobles (for the common people are not admitte•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 these Mysteries) and turning his face toward the Desart, he be∣ginneth his Inchant••••••t, and calleth the Spirit with loude voyce by certaine names, [ 60] which no man vnder••••••ndeth but hee and his Disciples. After hee hath done thus a while, if the Spirit yet 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his comming, hee drinketh of the said Water, and therewith waxeth hot and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and inuerteth and turneth his Inchantment, and letteth himselfe bloud with a thorne, maru••••••••usly turmoiling himselfe, as we read of the furious Sybils, not ceasing

vntill the spirit be come: who at his comming entreth into him, and ouerthroweth him, as it were a Greyhound should ouerturne a Squerell, then for a space, he seemeth to lye as though he were in great paine, or in a rapte, wonderfully tormenting himselfe, during which agonie, the other Disciple shaketh the Siluer Bell continually. Thus when the agonie is past, and he lyeth quietly (yet without any sence or feeling) the King, or some other in his stead, demandeth of him what he desired to know: and the spirit answered him by the mouth of the rapte Piaces, with a direct and perfect answere to all points: Insomuch that on a time certaine Spaniards being pre∣sent at these mysteries with one of the Kings, and in the Spanish tongue demanding the Piaces of their Ships which they looked for out Spaine, the spirit answered in the Indian tongue, and told them what day and houre the Ships departed from Spaine, how many they were, and what they brought, without failing in any point. If he be also demanded of the eclipse of the Sunne [ 10] or Moone (which they greatly feare and abhorre) he giueth a perfect answer,* 6.24 and the like of tempests, famine, plentie, warre or peace, and such other things. When all the demands are fi∣nished, his Disciples call him aloud, ringing the Siluer Bell at his eare, and blowing a certaine powder into his nostrils, whereby he is raised as it were from a dead sleepe, being yet somewhat heauy headed and faint a good while after. Thus being againe rewarded of the King with more bread, he departeth againe to the desarts with his Disciples. But since the Christian faith hath beene dispersed throughout the Iland, these diuellish practises haue ceased, and they of the mem∣bers of the Diuell, are made the members of Christ by Baptisme, forsaking the Diuell and his works, with the vaine curiosity of desire of knowledge of things to come, whereof for the most part it is better to be ignorant, then with vexation to know that which cannot be auoided. [ 20]

* 6.25Furthermore, in manie places of the firme Land, when any of the Kings dye, all his houshold seruants, aswell women as men, which haue continually serued him, kill themselues, beleeuing as they are taught by the Diuell Tuyra, that they that kill themselues when the King dyeth, goe with him to heauen, and serue him in the same place and office as they did before on the earth while he liued: and that all that refuse so to doe, when after they dye by their naturall death or otherwise, their soules to die with their bodies, and to be dissolued into ayre, and become no∣thing, as doe the soules of Hogges, Birds, Fishes, or other bruite beasts: and that onely the o∣ther may enioy the priuiledge of immortalitie for euer, to serue the King in heauen. And of this false opinion commeth it, that they which sowe corne, or set rootes for the Kings bread, [ 30] and gather the same, are accustomed to kill themselues, that they may enioy this priuiledge in heauen, and for the same purpose, cause a portion of the graine of Maiz, and a bundle of Iucca (whereof their bread is made) to be buried with them in their graues, that the same may serue them in heauen, if perhaps there should lacke seedes to sowe, and therefore they take this with them, to begin withall, vntill Tuyra (who maketh them all these faire promises) prouide them of greater quantitie. This haue I my selfe seene in the top of the Mountaines of Guaturo, where hauing in prison the King of that Prouince (who rebelled from the obedience of your Maiestie) and demanding of him to whom pertained those S••pultures or graues which I saw in his house: he answered, that they were of certaine Indians which slew themselues at the death of his Fa∣ther. And because they are oftentimes accustomed to bury great quantities of wrought gold with them, I caused two graues to be opened, wherein was nothing found but a vessell full of [ 40] the graine of Maiz, and a bundle of Iucca, as I haue said. And demanding the cause hereof, of the King and the other Indians: they answered, that they that were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 there, were the la∣bourers of the ground, and men skilfull in sowing of seedes, and maki•••• of bread, and seruants to the Kings father, and to the end that their soules should not dye ••ith their bodies, they slue themselues at the death of the King their Master, to liue with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 heauen, and to the intent that they might serue him there in the same office, they reserue that Maiz and Iucca, to sowe it in heauen. Whereunto I answered them in this manner, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 how your Tuyra deceiueth you, and how all that he teacheth you is false. You see how 〈◊〉〈◊〉 so long a time since they are dead, they haue not yet taken away this Maiz and Iucca which is now purified and worth nothing, [ 50] and not like to be sowen in heauen. To this the King replied, saying▪ In that they haue not ta∣ken it away, nor sowen it in heauen, the cause is, that they chanced •• finde enough there, by reason whereof they had no neede of this. To this errour many thing were said, which seemed of little force to remoue him from his false opinion, and especially any ••uch as at that age are oc∣cupied of the Diuell, whom they paint of the selfe same forme and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as he appeared vnto them in diuers shapes and formes. They make also Images of Gold, Co••per, and Wood, to the same similitudes,* 6.26 in terrible shapes, and so variable, as the Painters are a••••••stomed to paint them at the feete of Saint Michael the Archangell, or in any other place, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they paint them of most torrible portrature. Likewise when the diuell greatly intendeth 〈…〉〈…〉 them, he threat∣neth to send them great tempests,* 6.27 which they call Furacanas, or 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and are so vehe∣ment, that they ouerthrow many houses, and great trees. And I haue seen•• Mountaines, full of [ 60] many and great trees, that for the space of three quarters of a league the ••••••ntaine hath beene subuerted, and the tree ouerthrowne, and plucked out of the earth with 〈…〉〈…〉.

The gulfe of Vraba, is distant from the Equinoctiall line, from an hundr•••• and twentie, to a

hundred and thirty leagues, and three quarters of a league, after that accompt of seuenteen leagues and a halfe for euerie degree from Pole to Pole: & thus for a little more or lesse, goeth all the coast. By reason wherof, in the Citie of Sancta Maria, Antiqua, in Dariena, and in all that course of the foresaid gulfe of Vraba, at all times of the yeere the daies and nights are in manner of equall length: and if there be any difference betweene them by reason of this small distance from the Equinoctiall, it is so little, that in foure and twentie houres, making a naturall day, it cannot be perceiued but by the iudgement of speculatiue men, and such as vnderstand the sphere. From hence the North Starre is seene verie low.

[ 10] Of diuers particular things, as Wormes, Serpents, Beasts, Foules, Trees, &c.

I Will first speake of certaine little and troublesome Beasts, which may seeme to be engendred of nature to molest and vexe men, to shew them and giue them to vnderstand, how small and vile a thing may offend & disquiet them, to the end that they may remember the principall end for the which they were created, that is, to know their maker. In manie parts of the firme Land, by the which as wel the Christians as the Indians do trauaile,* 6.28 there are such marishes & waters in the way, that they are faine to go without breeches among the hearbes & weeds, by reason wher of, certain small beasts or wormes (which they call Garapates) much like vnto Ticks, cleaue fast to their legs. These worms are as little as the pouder of beaten Salt, & cleaue so fast, that they can by [ 20] no meanes be taken away, except the place be nointed with oyle: & after that the legs be noin∣ted a while with oyle, or the other parts where these little Tickes are fastened, they scrape the place with a Knife, & so take them away. But the Indians which haue no oyle, smoake them, and burne them with fire, and abide great paines in taking them away by this means. Of other little Beasts which trouble men, and are engendred in their heads or other parts of their bodies, I say that the Christian men which trauaile into these parts, haue them but seldome times, and that not past one or two, and this also very seldome: For passing by the line of the Diameter where the compasse maketh difference of sailing by the winde called Greco (that is, North-east) and Magistral (that is, South-west) which is in the course of the Ilands of Azori, they saile but a little way following our voiage by the West, but that all the Lice which the Christians carrie [ 30] with them, or are engendred in their heads, or other places of their bodies, die and vtterly con∣sume by little and little, and are not engendred in India, except in the heads of little children in those parts, as well among the children of the Christians which are borne there,* 6.29 as also among the naturall Indians, who haue them commonly in their heads, and sometimes in other parts of their bodies, and especially they of the Prouince of Cuena, which is a region containing more then a hundred leagues in length, and embraseth the one and the other coast of the North Sea, and of the East. When these Indians are infected with this filthinesse, they dresse and cleanse one another: And they that exercise this, are for the most part women, who eate all that they take, and haue herein such dexterity by reason of their exercise, that our men cannot lightly attaine thereunto. There is also another thing greatly to be considered: and this is, how the [ 40] Christian men, being there cleane from this filthinesse of India,* 6.30 as well in their heads as the rest of their bodies, yet when they returne to come againe into Europe, and begin to arriue in that place of the Ocean Sea where we said before that these Lice died and forsooke them, sodainely in their repassing by the same clime (as though these Lice had tarried for them in that place) they can by no meanes auoide them for the space of certaine daies, although they change their shirts two or three times in a day. These Lice are at the first as little as Nits, and grow by little and little, vntill they be of the bignesse that they are in Spaine. This haue I oftentimes proued, hauing now foure times passed the Ocean Sea by this voiage. Beside these wormes and vermin wherof we haue spoken, there is another little mischieuous worm, which we may number among the kindes of Fleas, this Pestilence the Indians call Nigua, and is much lesse then a Flea: it pear∣ceth [ 50] the flesh of a man,* 6.31 and so lancheth or cutteth the same (while in the meane time it can neither be seene nor taken) that from some it hath cut off their hands, and from other their feete, vntill the remedy was found to annoint the place with Oyle and scrape it with a Rasor. In the firme Land in golden Castile or Beragua, there are many Vipers like vnto them of Spaine: they that are bitten of them, dye in short space, for few liue to the fourth day,* 6.32 except present remedy. Of these, some are of lesse kinde then other, and haue their taile somewhat round, and leape in the aire to assaile men; and for this cause, some call this kinde of Vipers Tyro: their biting is most venomous••, and for the most part incurable. One of them chanced to bite an Indian Maide which serued me in my house, to whom I caused the Surgians to minister their ordinary cure, but they could doe her no good, nor yet get one drop of blood out of her, but onely a yel∣low [ 60] water, so that she died the third day for lacke of remedie, as the like hath chanced to diuers others. This Maide was of the age of foureteene yeares, and spake the Spanish tongue as if she had beene borne in Castile: she said that the Viper which bit her, on the foot, was two spans long, or little lesse: and that to bite her, she leapt in the aire for the space of more then six paces, as I haue heard the like of other credible persons.

* 6.33I haue also seene in the firme Land a kinde of Adders, very small, and of seuen or eight foot long; these are so red, that in the night they appeare like burning coles, and in the day seeme as red as blood, these are also venemous, but not so much as the Vipers. There are other much lesse and shorter, and blacker: these come out of the Riuers, and wander sometimes farre on the Land, and are likewise venemous. There are also other Adders of a russet colour: these are somewhat bigger then the Viper, and are hurtfull and venemous. There are likewise another sort of ma∣ny colours, and very long: of these I saw one in the yeare of Christ 1515. in the Iland of Hispa∣niola, neere vnto the Sea coasts, at the foote of the Mountaines called Pedernales. When this Ad∣der was slain, I measured her, & found her to be more then twenty foot long, and somewhat more then a mans fist in bignesse: and although she had three or foure deadly wounds with a Sword, yet dyed she not, nor stunke the same day, in so much that her blood continued warme all that [ 10] time. There are also in the Marishes and desarts of the firme Land many other kindes of Lysarts, Dragons,* 6.34 and diuers other kindes of Serpents, whereof I intend not here to speak much, because I haue more particularly entreated of these things in my generall historie of the West Indies. There are tlso Spiders of marueilous bignesse, and I haue seene some with bodie and legges bigger then a mans hand extended euery way,* 6.35 and I once saw one of such bignesse, that onely her body was as bigge as a Sparrow, and full of that Laune whereof they make their webbes: this was of a darke russet colour, with eyes greater then the eyes of a Sparrow, they are venemous, and of terrible shape to behold. There are also Scorpions, and diuers other such venomous wormes. Fur∣thermore in the firme Land, there are many Toades, being verie noious and hurtfull by reason of their great multitude,* 6.36 they are not venemous, they are seene in great abundance in Dareena, [ 20] where they are so big that when they die in the time of drought, the bones of some of them (and especially the ribs) are of such greatnesse, that they appeare to be the bones of Cats, or of some o∣ther beasts of the same bignesse. But as the waters diminish, & the moisture consumeth in the time of drought (as I haue said) they also consume therewith,* 6.37 vntill the yeare next following when the raine and moisture encrease, at which time they are seene againe. Neuerthelesse, at this pre∣sent there is no such quantitie of them, as was wont to be, by reason that as the Land is better cultured by the Christians, as well by the felling of Woods and Shrubs, as also by the Pasture of Kine, Horses, and other beasts, so is it apparant that this poison diminisheth daily, whereby that region becommeth more holesome and pleasant.* 6.38 These Toades sing after three or foure [ 30] sort, for some of them sing pleasantly, other like ours of Spaine, some also whistle, and other some make another manner of noise: they are likewise of diuers colours, as some greene, some russet or gray, and some almost blacke, but of all sorts they are great and filthie, and noious by reason of their great multitude, yet are they not venemous, as I haue said.

There are also a strange kinde of Crabbes, which come forth of certaine holes of the earth, that they themselues make:* 6.39 the head and bodie of these make one round thing, much like to the hood of a Faulcon, hauing foure feete comming out of the one side, and as manie out of the o∣ther: they haue also two mouthes, like vnto a paire of small Pincers, the one bigger then the o∣ther, wherewith they bite, but doe no great hurt, because they are not venemous: their skin and bodie is smooth, and thinne, as is the rkinne of a man, sauing that it is somewhat harder; their colour is russet, or white, or blew, and walke sidelong, they are verie good to be eaten, in so much [ 40] that the Christians trauailing by the firme Land, haue beene greatly nourished by them, because they are found in manner euerie where: in shape and forme they are much like vnto the Crabbe which we paint for the signe Cancer, and like vnto those which are found in Spaine in Anda∣lusia in the Riuer Guadalchiber, where it entreth into the Sea, and in the Sea coasts there about, sauing that these are of the water, and the other of the land: they are sometimes hurtfull, so that they that eate of them dye, but this chanceth onely when they haue eaten any venomous thing, or of the venemous apples wherewith the Caniball archers poison their arrowes, where∣of I will speake hereafter, and for this cause the Christians take heede how they eate of these Crabbes, if they finde them neere vnto the said apple trees. Furthermore in these Indies, as well [ 50] in the firme land, as in the Ilands, there is found a kinde of Serpents, which they call Yuanas, which some call Iuannas,* 6.40 these are terrible and fearefull to fight, and yet not hurtfull, they are verie delicate to be eaten, and it is not yet knowne whether they be beasts of the land, or fishes, because they liue in the water, and wander in the woods, and on the land: they haue foure feet, and are commonly bigger then Connies, and in some places bigger then Otters, with tailes like Lysarts or Eutes: their skinne is spotted, and of the same kinde of smoothnesse or barenesse, al∣though of diuers colours: vpon the ridge of their backes, they haue manie long prickes, their teeth are very sharpe, and especially their fangs or dogge teeth, their throates are l••ng and large, reaching from their beards to their brests, of the like skinne to the residue of their bodies: they are dumbe, and haue no voice, or make any noise, or crie, although they be kept tied to the foote of a chest, or any other thing, for the space of twentie or fiue and twentie daies, without any [ 60] thing to eate or drinke, except they giue them now and then a little of the bread of Cazabi, or some such other thing: they haue foure feete, and their fore-feete as long as a mans finger, with clawes like the clawes of a bird, but weaker, and such as cannot grasple or take hold of any

thing: they are much better to be eaten then to behold, for few that see them, will haue desire to eate of them, by reason of their horrible shape, except such as haue beene accustomed to the beasts of these regions, which are more horrible and fearefull, as this is not, but onely in appa∣rence: their flesh is of much better taste then the flesh of Connies, and more holesome, for it hurteth none but onely such as haue had the French poxe, in so much,* 6.41 that if they haue beene touched of that infirmitie, although they haue beene whole of long time, neuerthelesse they feele hurt, and complaine of the eating of these Iuannas, as hath beene oftentimes proued by experience.

There are found in the firme land certaine birds, so little, that the whole bodie of one of them is no bigger then the top of the biggest finger of a mans hand,* 6.42 and yet is the bare body without [ 10] the feathers not halfe so bigge: This Bird, beside her littlenesse, is of such velositie and swiftnesse in flying, that who so seeth her flying in the aire, cannot see her slap or beate her wings after a∣ny other sort then doe the Dorres, or humble Bees, or Beetels: so that there is no man that seeth her flye, that would thinke her to be any other then a Do••re: they make their nests ac∣cording to the proportion of their bignesse, and I haue seene that one of these Birds with her nest put in a paire of gold weights altogether, hath waide no more then 2. Tomini, which are in poise 24. graines, with the feathers, without the which she should haue waied some what lesse. And doubtlesse, when I consider the finenesse of the clawes and feete of these Birds, I know not whereunto I may better liken them, then to the little birds which the lymners of bookes are [ 20] accustomed to paint on the margent of Church Bookes, and other Bookes of Diuine Seruice. Their Feathers are of manie faire colours, as golden, yellow, and greene, beside other variable colours: their beake is verie long for the proportion of their bodies, and as fine and subtile as a sowing needle: they are verie hardy, so that when they see a man clime the tree where they haue their nests, they flye at his face, and strike him in the eyes, comming, going, and returning with such swiftnesse, that no man would lightly beleeue it, that hath not seene it: and certain∣ly these birds are so little, that I durst not haue made mention hereof, if it were not that diuers others which haue seene them as well as I, can beare witnesse of my saying: they make their nests of flocks and cotten, whereof there is great plentie in these regions, and serueth well for their purpose. But as touching the Birds, Foules, and Beasts of these Indies, because they are [ 30] innumerable, both little and great, I intend not to speake much here, because I haue spoken more largely hereof in my generall Historie of the Indies. There is another kinde of Beasts seene in the firme Land, which seemeth very strange and marueilous to the Christian men to behold, and much differing from all other Beasts which haue beene seene in other parts of the world: these Beasts are called Bardati, and are foure footed, hauing their taile and all the rest of their bodies co∣uered onely with a skin like the coperture of a barbed horse,* 6.43 or the checkered skin of a Lisart or Crocodile, of colour betweene white and russet, inclining somewhat more to white. This Beast is of forme and shape much like to a barbed horse, with his barbes and stankets in all points, and from vnder that which is the barbe and coperture, the taile commeth forth, and the feete in their place, the necke also and the eares in their parts, and in fine all things in like sort as in a barbed [ 40] courser: they are of the bignesse of one of these common Dogges, they are not hurtfull, they are filthie, and haue their habitation in certaine hillockes of the earth, where digging with their feete, they make their dens verie deepe, and the holes thereof, in like manner as doe Connies: they are very excellent to be eaten, and are taken with nets, and some also killed with Cros∣bowes: they are likewise taken oftentimes when the Husbandmen burne the stubble in sowing time, or to renew the herbage for Kine and other Beasts. I haue oftentimes eaten of their flesh, which seemeth to me of better taste then Kiddes flesh, and holesome to be eaten. And if these Beasts had euer beene seene in these parts of the world, where the first barbed Horses had their originall, no man would iudge but that the forme and fashion of the coperture of Horses furnish∣ed for the warres, was first deuised by the sight of these Beasts.

[ 50] There is also in the firme Land another beast, called Ors•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that is, the Ante-beare. This beast in haire and colour, is much like to the Bea••e of Spaine,* 6.44 and in manner of the same making, saue that he hath a much longer snoue, and is of euill fight: they are oftentimes taken only with staues, without any other weapon, and are not hurtfull, they are also taken with Dogges, because they are not naturally armed, although they bite somewhat, they are found for the most part about and neere to the hillockes where are great abundance of Antes. For in these Regions is ingendred a certaine kind of Antes, very little and blacke▪ in the Fields and Plaines whereas grow no Trees,* 6.45 where by the instinct of Nature these Antes separate them∣selues to ingender farre from the Woods for feare of these Beares, the which because they are fearefull, vile, and vnarmed (as I haue said) they keepe euer in places full of Trees, vntill very [ 60] famine and necessitie, or the great desire that they haue to feede on these Antes, cause them to come out of the Woods to hunt for them: these Antes make a hillocke of earth to the height of a man, or somewhat more or lesse, and as bigge as a great Chest, and sometimes as bigge as a Bu•• or a Hogshead, and as hard as a stone, so that they seeme as though they were stones, set vp to limit the ends and confines of certaine Lands. Within these hillockes, made of most hard earth,

are innumerable and infinite little Ants, the which may be gathered by bushels when the hillock is broken: the which when it is sometimes moysted by raine, and then dried againe by the heat of the Sunne, it breaketh, and hath certaine small rifts, as little and subtill as the edge of a Knife, and it seemeth that Nature hath giuen sense to these Antes to find such a matter of earth, where∣with they may make the said hillocke of such hardnesse, that it may seeme a strong pauement made of lime and stone:* 6.46 and whereas I haue prooued and caused some of them to be broken, I haue found them of such hardnesse, as if I had not seene, I could not haue beleeued, insomuch that they could scarsly be broken with Pikes of Iron, so strong Fortresses doe these little beasts make for their safegard against their aduersarie the Beare, who is chiefly nourished by them, and giuen them as an enemie, according to the common Prouerbe which saith, Non calcuna persona si libera, a chimanchi il suo Bargello, that is, There is no man so free, that hath not his Persecutor [ 10] or priuie Enemie.* 6.47 And here when I consider the maruellous prouidence which Nature hath gi∣uen to these little bodies, I call to remembrance the wittie Sentence of Plinie, where speaking of such little beasts, he saith thus, Why doe we maruell at the Towre-bearing shoulders of Elephants, and not rather where Nature hath placed so many senses and such industry in such little bodies? Where is Hearing, Smelling, Seeing, and Feeling, yea, where are the Veines and Arteries (without which no beast can liue or moue) in these so little bodies, wherof some are so small that their whole bodies can scarsly bee seene of our eyes: What shall we then say of the parts of the same? Yet euen among these there are many of such sagacitie and industry, as the like is not seene in beasts of greater quantitie, no nor yet in man, &c.

But to returne to the Historie. This Enemy which nature hath giuen to these little Beasts, [ 20] vseth this manner to assaile them: When he resorteth to the Hillocke where the Antes lye hid as in their fortresse, he putteth his tongue to one of the rifts whereof we haue spoken, beeing as subtill as the edge of a Sword, and therewith continuall licking, maketh the place moist, the foame and froth of his mouth being of such propertie, that by continuall licking the place, it in∣largeth the rift in such sort by little and little, that at the length he easily putteth in his tongue, which he hath very long and thinne, and much disproportionate to his bodie, and when he hath thus made free passage for his tongue in the hillocke, to put it easily in and out at his pleasure, then he thrusteth it into the hole as farre as he can reach, and so letteth it rest a good space, vntill a great quantitie of the Antes (whose nature reioyceth in heat and moysture) haue laden his tongue, and as many as he can containe in the hollownesse thereof, at which time hee suddenly [ 30] draweth it into his mouth, and eateth them, and returneth againe to the same practice imme∣diatly, vntill hee haue eaten as many as him listeth, or as long as hee can reach any with his tongue. The flesh of this Beast, is filthy and vnsauourie, but by reason of the extreame shifts and necessitie that the Christian men were put to at their first comming into these parts, they were inforced to prooue all things, and so fell to the eating of these Beasts: but when they had found more delicate meates, they fell into hatred with this. These Antes haue the appearance of the place of their entrance into the hillocke, vnder the ground, and this at so little a hole, that it could hardly bee found, if certaine of them were not seene to passe in and out: but by this way the Beares could haue no such power to hurt them as aboue at the said rifts, as I haue said. [ 40]

There is anoother strange beast, which by a name of contrary effect, the Spaniards call Cag∣nuolo leggiero,* 6.48 that is, The Light Dogge, whereas it is one of the slowest beasts in the World, and so heauie and dull in moouing, that it can scarsly goe fiftie pases in a whole day: these beasts are in the firme Land, and are very strange to behold for the disproportion that they haue to all other beasts: they are about two spans in length when they are growne to their full bignesse, but when they are very young, they are somewhat more grosse then long: they haue foure subtill feet, and in euery of them foure clawes like vnto Birds, and ioyned together, yet are neither their clawes or their feet able to susteine their bodies from the ground, by reason whereof, and by the heauinesse of their bodies, they draw their bellies on the ground: their neckes are high and streight, and all equall like the pestle of a Morter, which is altogether equall euen vnto the top, [ 50] without making any proportion or similitude of a head, or any difference except in the noddle, and in the tops of their neckes: they haue very round faces much like vnto Owles, and haue a marke of their owne haire after the manner of a Circle, which maketh their faces seeme some∣what more long then large: they haue small eyes and round, & nostrils like vnto Monkeyes: they haue little mouthes, and mooue their neckes from one side to another, as though they were asto∣nished: their chiefe desire and delight is to cleaue and sticke fast vnto Trees, or some other thing whereby they may climbe aloft, and therefore for the most part, these beasts are found vpon Trees, whereunto cleauing fast, they mount vp by little and little, staying themselues by their long clawes; the colour of their haire is betweene russet and white, and of the proper colour of [ 60] the haire of a Wesell: they haue no tayles, and their voice is much differing from other beasts, for they sing onely in the night, and that continually from time to time, singing euer sixe notes one higher then another, so falling with the same, that the first note is the highest, and the other in a baser tune, as if a man should say, La, sol, fa, mi, re, vt, so this beast saith, Ha, ha, h••, ha, ha, ha.

And doubtlesse, it seemeth to me, that as I haue said in the Chapter of the beast called Bardati, that those beasts might be the originall and document to imbarbe Horses: euen so, the first in∣uention of Musicke might seeme by the hearing of this beast, to haue the first principles of that Science, rather then by any other thing in the World. But now to returne to the Historie. I say that in a short space after this Beast hath sung, and hath paused a while, shee returneth againe to the selfe-same Song, and doth this onely in the night, and not in the day: By reason whereof, and also because of her euill sight, I thinke her to be a night Beast, and the friend of darknesse. Sometimes the Christian men find these Beasts, and bring them home to their houses, where al∣so they creepe all about with their naturall slownesse, insomuch that neither for threatning or [ 10] pricking they will mooue any faster then their naturall and accustomed pace. And if they finde any Trees, they creepe thither immediately, and mount to the top of the highest branch thereof, where they remayne continually for the space of eight, or ten, or twentie dayes, without ea∣ting of any thing, as farre as any man can iudge. And whereas I my selfe haue kept them in my house, I could neuer perceiue other but that they liue onely of Aire: and of the same opinion, are in manner all men of those Regions, because they haue neuer seene them eate any thing, but euer turne their heads and mouthes toward that part where the wind bloweth most, whereby may be considered that they take most pleasure in the Ayre. They bite not, nor yet can bite, hauing very little mouthes: they are not venemous or noyous any way, but altogether brutish, and vt∣terly vnprofitable, and without commoditie yet knowne to men, sauing onely to mooue their [ 20] minds to contemplate the infinite power of God, who delighteth in the varietie of creatures, whereby appeareth the power of his incomprehensible wisdome and maiestie, so farre to exceed the capacitie of mans vnderstanding.

In these Regions there are likewise found certaine Fowles or Birds, which the Indians call Alcatraz: these are much bigger then Geese,* 6.49 the greatest part of their feathers are of russet co∣lour, and in some parts yellow, their bils or beakes are of two spannes in length, and very large neere to the head, and growing small toward the point, they haue great and large throates, and are much like to a Fowle which I saw in Flanders, in Brussels in your Maiesties Palace, which the Flemmings call Haina: And I remember that when your Maiestie dined one day in your great Hall, there was brought to your Maiesties presence a Caldron of water with certaine fishes a∣liue, [ 30] which the said fowle did eat vp whole, and I think verily that that fowle was a fowle of the Sea, because she had feet like fowles of the water, as haue also these Alcatrazi, which are likewise fowles of the Sea, and of such greatnesse, that I haue seene a whole coate of a man put into the throats of one of them in Panama, in the yeere 1521. And forasmuch as in that Coast of Pa∣ma, there passeth and flyeth a great multitude of these Alcatrazi, being a thing very notable,* 6.50 I will declare the manner hereof, as not onely I, but also diuers other now present in your Maie∣sties Court haue oftentimes seene. Your Maiestie shall therefore vnderstand, that in this place (as I haue said before) the Sea of Sur riseth and falleth two leagues and more from sixe houres to sixe houre: so that when it increaseth, the water of the Sea arriueth so neere to the houses of Panama, as doth our Sea (called Mare Mediterraneum) in Barzalona, or in Naples: and when [ 40] the said increasing of the Sea commeth, there commeth also therewith such a multitude of small fishes called Sardines, that it is so maruellous a thing to behold, that no man would beleeue it that hath not seene it. Insomuch that the Cacique (that is) the King of that Land,* 6.51 at such time as I dwelt there, was bound daily, as he was commanded by your Maiesties Gouernour, to bring or∣dinarily three Canoas or Barkes full of the said Sardines, and to vnlade the same in the Market place, which were afterward by the Ruler of the Citie diuided among the Christian men, with∣out any cost or charge to any of them: Insomuch that if the people had beene a much greater multitude then they were, and as many as are at this present in Toledo, or more, and had none o∣ther thing to liue by, they might haue beene sufficiently susteined by these Sardines, beside the ouerplus which should haue remayned. But to returne to the fowles, whereof wee haue spo∣ken. [ 50] As the Sea commeth, and the Sardines with the same, euen so likewise come the said Alcatrazzi therewith, and flye continually ouer it in such a multitude, that they appeare to couer the vpper part or floore of the water, and thus continue in mounting and falling from the ayre to the water, and from the water to the ayre, during all the time of their fishing: and as∣soone as they haue taken any of these Sardines, they flye aboue the waters, and eate them in∣continently, and suddenly returne againe to the water for more, continuing thus course by course without ceasing: in like manner when the Sea falleth, they follow their fishing as I haue said. There goeth also in the company of these fowles another kind of fowles, called Coda inforcata, (that is) the forked tayle, whereof I haue made mention before, and assoone as the Alcatraz moun∣teth from the water with her prey of the Sardines, suddenly this Coda inforcata giueth her so [ 60] many strokes, and so persecuteth her, that shee causeth her to let fall the Sardines which shee hath in her mouth: the which assoone as they are fallen, and before they yet touch the water, the Coda inforcata catcheth them euen in the fall, in such sort, that it is a great pleasure to behold the combat betweene them all the day long. The number of these Alcatrazzi is such, that the Christian men are accustomed to send to certaine Ilands and Rockes which are neere about Pa∣nama,

with their Boates or Barkes to take these Alcatrazzi, while they are yet young, and cannot flie, and kill as many of them with staues as they will, vntill they haue therewith la∣den their Barkes or Canoas: these young ones are so fat and well fed, that they cannot bee ea∣ten, and are taken for none other intent, but onely to make Grease for Candles to burne in the night, for the which purpose it serueth very well, and giueth a cleere light, and burneth easily. After this manner, and for this purpose, innumerable of them are killed: and yet it seemeth that the number of them that fish for Sardines doe daily increase. There are other fowles called Passere sempie, that is, simple Sparowes: these are somewhat lesse then Seamewes, and haue their feet like vnto great Malards,* 6.52 and stand in the water sometimes, and when the ships saile fiftie or a hundred leagues about the Ilands, these fowles beholding the ships comming toward them, [ 10] breake their flight, and fall downe vpon the Saile yards, Masts, and Cables thereof, and are so simple and foolish, that they tarrie vntill they may easily bee taken with mens hands, and were therefore called of the Mariners simple Sparrowes: they are blacke, and vpon their blacke, haue their head and shoulders of feathers of a darke russet colour: they are not good to bee ea∣ten, although the Mariners haue sometimes beene inforced to eate them. There is another kind of Birds in the firme Land,* 6.53 which the Christians call Picuti, because they haue very great beakes, in respect of the littlenesse of their bodies, for their beakes are very heauie, and weigh more then their whole bodies beside: these Birds are no bigger then Quailes, but haue a much greater bushment of feathers insomuch that their feathers are more then their bodies: their feathers are very faire, and of many variable colours; their beakes are a quar∣ter [ 20] of a yard in length or more, and bending downe toward the Earth, and three fingers broad neere vnto the head: their tongues are very quils, wherewith they make a great hissing: they make holes in Trees with their beakes, in the which they make their Nests. And surely these Birds are maruellous to behold, for the great difference which they haue from all other Birds that I haue seene, aswell for their tongues (which are quils as I haue said) as also for the strangenesse of their sight and disproportion of their great beakes, in respect of the rest of their bodies. There are no Birds found that prouide better for the safegard of their young in the time of their breeding, to be without danger of wilde Cats, that they enter not into their Nests to destroy their Egges or young, and this aswell by the strange manner of building their Nests, as also by their owne defence: and therefore when they perceiue that the Cats approach toward [ 30] them, they enter into their Nests, and holding their beakes toward the entrance of the same, stand at their defence, and so vexe the Cats, that they cause them to leaue their enterprize.

There are also other Birds or Sparrowes, which the Christians by contrary effect call Matti, that is Fooles: Whereas neuerthelesse there is no Bird that sheweth more wit and craft in de∣fending her young from perill.* 6.54 These Birds are little, and in manner blacke, and somewhat big∣ger then our Thrushes: they haue certaine white feathers in their neckes, and the like sagacitie or sharpnesse of sense as haue the Birds or Pyes called Gazzuole: they seldome times light vpon the earth: they make their Nests in Trees separated from other, because the Monkeyes are ac∣customed to leape from Tree to Tree, not descending to the ground for feare of other beasts, ex∣cept when they are enforced by thirst to come downe to drinke, at such times as they are sure not to be molested, and for this cause doe not these Birds make their Nests but in Trees farre di∣uided [ 40] from other, they make them of a Cubit in length, or more, after the manner of bagges or little sackes, large at the bottome, and growing narrower and narrower toward the mouth, whereby they are fastened, hauing the hole whereat they enter into the sacke, of such bignesse as may onely suffice to receiue them. And to the end that the Monkeyes may not deuoure their young, if they chance to mount vpon the Trees where they haue their Nests, they vse another craft, which is, to make their Nests in thicke branches of Trees, and to defend the same with sharpe and strong thornes, implicate and set in such order, that no man is able to make the like, so that the Monkeyes can by no meanes put their legges into the hole of the Nest to take out the young Birds, aswell for the sharpnesse of the thornes, as also for the depth of the Nests, in the [ 50] bottome whereof, the young Birds rest without danger of their enemie: for some of their Nests being three or foure spans in length, the leg of the Monkey cannot reach to the bottome there∣of. They vse also another policie, which is, to make many of their Nests in one Tree, the which they doe for one of these two causes: that is, that either of their owne naturall disposition they are accustomed to goe in great multitudes, and reioyce in the company of their owne generati∣on, as doe the Birds which we call Stares, or else to the intent that if it should so chance that the Monkeyes should climbe the Trees where they make their Nests, they might bee a greater company to resist and molest the Monkeyes, at whose approach they make a fearefull and terrible cry, whereby the Monkeyes are put to flight. Furthermore, in the firme Land, and in the Ilands, there are certaine Birds called Piche, or Gazzuole, somewhat like vnto those which we call Wood-wals,* 6.55 or Wood-peckes, being lesse then ours of Spaine: these [ 60] are altogether blacke, and goe hopping and leaping, their beakes are also blacke, and of the same fashion as are the Popingiayes beakes, they haue long tayles, and are somewhat bigger then Stares.

There are other Birds called Pintadelli, which are like vnto certaine greene Birds,* 6.56 which the Itrlians call Fringuelli, and are of seuen colours: these Birds for feare of the Monkeyes, are euer wont to make their Nests ouer the bankes of Riuers, or the Sea, where the branches of Trees so reach ouer the water, that with a little weight they may bow downe to the water: their Nests are made so neere the tops of the branches, that when the Monkeyes come thereon, the branches bend toward the water, and the Monkeyes turne backe againe for feare of falling: For although no beast in the World be more malicious then this, yet whereas the most part of beasts are natu∣rally inclined to swimme, this Monkey hath no manner of aptnesse thereunto, and is therefore soone drowned or strangled in the water, and by a priuie sense of Nature feareth the danger which he cannot escape. These Birds make their Nests in such sort, that although they bee wet [ 10] and filled with water, yet doe they so suddenly rise vp againe, that the young Birds are not there∣by hurt or drowned. There are also many Nightingales, and other Birds which sing maruellous∣ly with great melodie and difference in singing: these Birds are of maruellous diuers colours the one from the other, some are altogether yellow, and some other of so excellent, delectable, and high a colour, as it were a Rubie, other are also of diuers and variable colours, some of few co∣lours, and other some all of one colour, being all so faire and beautifull, that in brightnesse and shining they excell all that are in Spaine, or Italie, or other Prouinces of Europe. Many of these are taken with Nets, lime-twigs, and Springes of diuers sorts.* 6.57 Diuers other sorts of great fowles like vnto Eagles, and such other as liue of prey, are found in the firme Land, of such diuersitie, [ 20] that it is in manner impossible to describe them all particularly: and forasmuch as I haue more largely intreated hereof in my generall Historie of the Indies, I thinke it not requisite heere to make any further mention of the same.

Of Trees, Fruits, and Plants.

THere is both in the firme Land and the Ilands a certaine Tree called Coco,* 6.58 being a kind of Date Trees, and hauing their leaues of the selfesame greatnesse, as haue the Date Trees which beare Dates, but differ much in their growing, for the leaues of this Coco grow out of the trunkes of the Tree, as doe the fingers out of the hand, wreathing themselues one within ano∣ther, [ 30] and so spreading abroad: these Trees are high, and are found in great plentie in the Coast of the Sea of Sur, in the Prouince of Cacique Chiman. These Date Trees bring forth a Fruit after this sort: being altogether vnite as it groweth on the Tree, it is of greater circumference then the head of a man, and from the superficiall part to the middest, which is the fruit, it is inuolued and couered with many Webs much like vnto those Hirds of Towe which they vse in Andalusia. Of this Towe or Web, the East Indians make a certaine kind of Cloth, of three or foure sorts, and Cordes for the Sayles of Ships: but in these Indies of your Maiestie, they passe not for these Coards, or this Cloth that may be made of the Fruit of Coco, by reason of the great plentie that they haue of the Bombage or Cotton of Gossampine Trees. The Fruit which is in the middest of the said Tow, is (as I haue said) as bigge as a mans fist, and sometimes twice as bigge, and more: [ 40] It in forme like vnto a Walnut, o•• some other round thing, somewhat more long then large, and very hard, the rinde or burke hereof, is as thicke as the circle of Letters of a Riall of Plate, and within, there cleaueth fast to the rinde of the Nut a carnositie or substance of coornell, of the thicknesse of halfe a finger, or of the least finger of the hand, and is very white, like vnto a faire Almond, and of better taste and more pleasant. When this Fruit is chewed, there remayne cer∣taine crummes, as doe the like of Almonds: Yet if it be swallowed downe, it is not vnpleasant. For although that after the iuyce or moysture be gone downe the throat before the said crummes be swallowed, the rest which is eaten, seeme somewhat sharpe or sowre, yet doth it not so great∣ly offend the taste, as to be cast away. While this Cocus is yet fresh and newly taken from the Tree, they vse not to eate of the said carnositie and Fruit, but first beating it very much, and then [ 50] strayning it, they draw a Milke thereof, much better and sweeter then is the Milke of Beasts, and of much substance, the which the Christian men of those Regions put in the Tartes or Cakes which they make of the grain of Maiz whereof they make their Bread,* 6.59 or in other Bread as we put Bread in Pottage: so that by reason of the said Milke of Cocus, the Tartes arm more ex∣cellent to be eaten without offence to the stomacke: they are so pleasant to the taste, and leaue it aswell satisfied as though it had beene delighted with many delicate Dishes. But to proceed further, your Maiestie shall vnderstand, that in the place of the stone or coornell, there is in the middest of the said carnositie a void place, which neuerthelesse is full of a most cleere and excel∣lent water, in such quantitie as may fill a great Egge shell, or more, or lesse, according to the big∣nesse of the Cocos, the which water surely, is the most substantiall, excellent and precious to bee [ 60] drunke, that may be found in the World: insomuch that in the moment when it passeth the pa∣late of the mouth, and beginneth to goe downe the throate, it seemeth that from the sole of the foot, to the crowne of the head, there is no part of the bodie but that feeleth great comfort thereby: as it is doubtlesse one of the most excellent things that may bee tasted vpon the earth, and such as I am not able by writing or tongue to expresse. And to proceed yet further, I say that

when the meate of this fruit is taken from the Vessell thereof, the vessell remayneth as faire and neate as though it were polished,* 6.60 and is without of colour inclining toward black, and shineth or glistereth very faire, and is within of no lesse delicatenesse. Such as haue accustomed to drinke in these Vessels, and haue beene troubled with the Disease called the fretting of the guts, say that they haue by experience found it a maruellous remedie against that Disease, and that it breaketh the stone, and prouoketh vrine. This fruit was called Coca, for this cause, that when it is taken from the place where it cleaueth fast to the Tree, there are seene two holes, and aboue them two other naturall holes, which altogether doe represent the gesture and figure of the Cattes called Mammons, that is, Monkeyes, when they cry, which cry the Indians call Coca, but in very deed, this Tree is a kind of Date Tree, and hath the same effect to heale fretting of the [ 10] guts, that Plinie describeth all kinde of Date trees to haue. There are furthermore in the firme Land, Trees of such bignesse that I dare not speake thereof, but in place where I haue so many witnesses which haue seene the same as well as I.* 6.61 I say therefore, that a league from Dariena or the Gitie of Sancta Maria Antiqua, there passeth a Riuer very large and deepe, which is called Cuti, ouer the which the Indians laid a great Tree, so trauersing the same, that it was in the stead of a bridge, the which I my selfe with diuers other that are at this present in your Maiesties Court, haue oftentimes passed ouer. And forasmuch as the said Tree had lyen long there, and by the great weight thereof was so shrunke downeward, and partly couered with water, that none could passe ouer it, but were wet to the knee, I being then in the yeere 1522. the officiall or Iu∣stice in that Citie at your Maiesties appointment, caused another great Tree to bee laid in that [ 20] place, which in like manner trauersed the Riuer, and reached more then fiftie foote ouer the further side: This Tree was exceeding great, and rested aboue the water more then two Cubits, in the fall, it cast downe all such other Trees as were within the reach thereof, and discouered certaine bynes, which were so laden with blacke Grapes of pleasant taste, that they satisfied more then fiftie persons which ate their fill thereof. This Tree, in the thickest part thereof, was more then sixteene spannes thicke, and was neuerthelesse but little in respect of many other trees which are found in this Prouince. For the Indians of the Coast and Prouince of Cartagenia, make Barkes or Boates thereof (which they call Canoas) of such bignesse, beeing all one whole Tree,* 6.62 that some containe a hundred men, some a hundred and thirtie, and some more, hauing ne∣uerthelesse such void space within the same, that there is left sufficient roome to passe to and fro [ 30] throughout all the Canoas. Some of these are so large, beside the length, that they conteine more then tenne or twelue spannes in breadth, and saile with two sailes, as with the Master saile and the trincket, which they make of very good Cotton. The greatest Trees that I haue seene in these parts, or in any other Regions, was in the Prouince of Guaturo, the King whereof rebel∣ling from the obedience of your Maiestie, was pursued by me, and taken Prisoner: at which time I with my company, passed ouer a very high Mountaine, full of great Trees, in the top whereof, we found one Tree, which had three roots, or rather diuisions of the roote aboue the Earth, in forme of a Triangle, or Treuet, so that betweene euery foot of this Triangle or three feet, there was a space of twentie foot betweene euery foot,* 6.63 and this of such height aboue the Earth, that a laden Cart of those wherewith they are accustomed to bring home Corne in time of Haruest in [ 40] the Kingdome of Toledo in Spaine, might easily haue passed through euery of those partitions or windoores which were betweene the three feet of the said Tree. From the Earth vpward to the trunke of the Tree, the open places of the diuisions betweene these three feete, were of such height from the ground, that a Footman with a Iauelin was not able to reach the place where the said feet ioyned together in the trunke or bodie of the Tree, which grew of great height in one piece, and one whole bodie, or euer it spread in branches, which it did not before it excee∣ded in height the Towre of Saint Romane in the Citie of Toledo: from which height and vp∣ward, it spread very great and strong branches. Among certaine Spaniards which climbed this Tree, I my selfe was one, and when I was ascended to the place where it begunne to spread the branches, it was a maruellous thing to behold a great Countrey of such Trees toward the Pro∣uince [ 50] of Abrayme. This Tree was easie to climbe, by reason of certaine Besuchi, (whereof I haue spoken before) which grew wreathed about the Tree, in such sort that they seemed to make a scaling Ladder. Euery of the foresaid three feet which bore the bodie of the Tree, was twentie spannes in thicknesse, and where they ioyned altogether about the Trunke or bodie of the Tree, the principall Trunke was more then fortie and fiue spannes in circuite. I named the Mountaine where these Trees grow, the Mountaine of three footed Trees. And this which I haue now declared, was seene of all the company that was there with mee when (as I haue said before) I took King Guaturo Prisoner in the yeere 1522. Many things more might here be spoken as touching this matter, as also how there are many other excellent Trees found of diuers sorts and difference, as sweet Cedar Trees, blacke Date Trees, and many other, of the which some are [ 60] so heauie that they cannot float about the water, but sinke immediately to the bottome, and o∣ther againe as light as a Corke. As touching all which things I haue written more largely in my generall Historie of the Indies.

And for as much as at this present I haue entred to entreate of Trees, before I passe any fur∣ther

to other things, I will declare the manner how the Indians kindle fire,* 6.64 onely with Wood and without fire, the manner whereof is this. They take a peece of wood, of two spannes in length, as biggeas the least finger of a mans hand, or as an arrow well pullished, and of a strong kinde of wood which they keepe onely for this purpose: and where they intend to kindle any fire, they take two other peeces of wood, of the driest and lightest that they can finde, and binde them fast together one with another, as close as two fingers ioyned: in the middest or between these, they put the point of the first little staffe made of hard and strong wood, which they hold in their hands by the top thereof, and turne or rubbe it round about continually in one place betweene the two peeces of wood which lye bound together vpon the earth, which by that vn∣cessant [ 10] rubbing and chasing, are in short space kindled, and take fire.* 6.65 I haue also thought good here to speake somewhat of such things as come to my remembrance of certaine Trees which are found in this Land, and sometime also the like haue beene seene in Spaine. These are cer∣taine putrified trunkes, which haue l••en so long rotting on the earth, that they are very white, and shine in the night like burning firebrands, and when the Spaniards finde any of this wood, and intend priuily in the night to make warre and inuade any Prouince, when case so requireth that it shall be necessarie to goe in the night, in such places where they know not the way, the formost Christian man which guideth the way, associate with an Indian to direct him therein, taketh a little starre of the said wood, which he putteth in his cap, hanging behinde on his shoulders, by the light whereof he that followeth next to him, directeth his iourney, who also [ 20] in like manner beareth another starre behinde him, by the shining whereof the third followeth the same way, and in like manner doe all the rest, so that by this meanes none are lost or stragle out of the way. And for as much as this light is not seene very farre, it is the better policie for the Christians, because they are not thereby disclosed before they inuade their enemies. Further∣more, as touching the natures of Trees, one particular thing seemeth worthy to be noted, where∣of Plinie maketh mention in his naturall Historie,* 6.66 where he saith that there are certaine Trees which continue euer greene and neuer loose their leaues, as the Bay-tree, the Cedar, the Orange-tree, and the Oliue-tree, with such other, of the which in altogether he nameth not past fiue or six. To this purpose, I say, that in the Ilands of these Indies, and also in the firme land,* 6.67 it is a thing of much difficultie to finde two Trees that lose or cast their leaues at any time: for although [ 30] I haue diligently searched to know the truth hereof, yet haue I not seene any that lose their leaues, either of them which we haue brought out of Spaine into these regions, as Orange-trees, Limons, Cedars, Palmes, or Date-trees, and Pomegranate-trees,* 6.68 or of any other in these regi∣ons, except onely Cassia, which loseth his leaues,* 6.69 and hath a greater thing appropriate to it selfe onely: which is, that whereas all other Trees and Plants of India spread their rootes no deeper in the earth then the depth of a mans height, or somewhat more, not descending any further into the ground, by reason of the great heate which is found beneath that depth, yet doth Cassia pearse further into the ground, vntill it finde water: which by the Philosophers o∣pinion should be the cause of a thinne and watery radicall moisture to such things as draw their nourishment thereof, as fat and vnctuous grounds with temperate heate, yeelde a fast and firme moisture to such things as grow in them, which is the cause that such Trees lose not their [ 40] leaues, as the said thinne and waterish moisture is cause of the contrarie, as appeareth by the said effect which is seene onely in Cassia, and none other Tree or Plant in all these partes.

Of Reedes or Canes.

IN the firme land there are many sorts of Reedes, so that in many places they make their hou∣ses thereof, couering them with the tops of the same, and making their wals of them in like manner, as I haue said before: and among these kindes of Reedes, there is one so great, that the Canes thereof are as bigge as a mans legge in the knee, and three spans in length from ioynt to [ 50] ioynt, or more, in so much that euery of them is of capacitie to containe a little bucket of wa∣ter. In this kinde, there are found some greater, and some lesse, of the which some they vse to make quiuers for arrowes. There is found another kinde, which surely is marueilous,* 6.70 being lit∣tle bigger then a Iauelin, the Canes whereof are longer then two spannes: these Reedes grow one farre from another, as sometimes twenty or thirty paces, and sometimes also two or three leagues: they grow in manner in all Prouinces in the Indies, and grow neere to very high Trees, whereunto they leane, and creepe vp to the top of their branches, which they imbrace, and descend againe downe to the earth. Their Canes are full of most cleare water, without any manner of taste or sauour, either of the Canes, or of any other thing, and such as if it were ta∣ken out of the freshest Spring in the world, nor yet is it knowne that euer it hurt any that [ 60] drunke thereof. For it hath oftentimes so chanced, that as the Christian men haue trauailed in these regions in desolate waies, where for lacke of water they haue beene in great danger to dye with thirst, they haue escaped that perill by reason that they found the said Reedes, of the wa∣ter of whose Canes they haue drunke a great quantity, without any hurt thereof ensuing. There∣fore when they finde these in any place, they make water vessels of the Canes thereof, and carry

as many of them full of water as may suffice for one dayes iourney: and sometime they carrie so many, that they take for euery man two or three quarts of water, which may serue them for many daies, because it doth not corrupt, but remaineth still fresh and good.

* 6.71There are also certaine Plants, which the Christians call Platani. They are as high as trees, and become as bigge in the trunke as the knee of a man, or more. From the foote to the top, they beare certaine long and large leaues, being more then three spans in largenesse, and about ten or twelue in length: the which when they are broken of the winde, the stalke remaineth whole in the middest. In the middest of this Plant, in the highest part thereof, there groweth a cluster with fortie or fiftie Plantans about it, euery of them being a span and a halfe in length, and as bigge as a mans arme in the small, or more, or lesse, according to the goodnesse of the soile [ 10] where they grow: they haue a rinde not very thicke, and easie to be broken, being within alto∣gether full of a substance like vnto the marie of the bone of an Oxe, as it appeareth when the rinde or barke is taken from the same. This cluster ought to be taken from the Plant, when any one of the Plantans begin to appeare yellow, at which time they take it, and hang it in their houses, where all the cluster waxeth ripe, with all his Plantans. This cluster is a very good fruite, and when it is opened, and the rinde taken off, there are found within it many good drie Figges,* 6.72 which being rosted, or stewed in an Ouen, in a close pot, or some such other thing, are of pleasant taste, much like to the conserue of Hony: they putrifie not on the Sea so soone as some other fruites doe, but continue fifteene daies and more, if they be gathered somewhat greene: they seeme more delicate on the Sea then on the Land, not for that they any thing en∣crease in goodnes on the Sea, but because that wheras on the Sea other things are lacking, where∣of [ 20] is plentie on the Land, those meates seeme of best taste, which satisfie present necessitie. This trunke or sprig which bringeth forth the said cluster, is a whole yeare in growing and bringing forth fruite, in which time it hath put forth round about in ten or twelue sprigges, as bigge as the first or principal, and multiplieth no lesse then the principall in bringing forth of clusters, with fruits likewise at their time, and also in bringing forth other and many sprigges, as is said be∣fore. From the which sprigges or trunkes, as soone as the cluster of the fruite is taken away, the Plant beginneth to drie and wither, which then they take out of the ground, because it doth none other then occupie it in vaine, and without profit. They are so many, and doe so marueilously encrease and multiplie, that it is a thing in manner incredible. They are excee∣ding [ 30] moist, in so much that when they are plucked vp from the place where they grow, there issueth forth a great quantity of water, as well out of the Plant, as out of the place where it grew, in such sort, that all the moisture of the earth farre about, might seeme to be gathe∣red together about the trunke or blocke of the said Plant, with the fruites whereof, the Antes are so farre in loue, that they are seene in great multitudes in the branches of the Plants: so that for the multitude thereof, it sometime so chanceth, that men are enforced to take away the Plants from their possession: these fruites are found at all times of the yeere. There is also another kinde of wilde Plants that groweth in the fieldes, which I haue not seene but in the Iland of Hispaniola, although they be found in other Ilands of the Indies: these they call Tunas. They grow of a Thistle full of thornes, and bring forth a fruite much [ 40] like vnto great Figges,* 6.73 which haue a crowne like Medlers, and are within of a high colour, with graines and the rinde like vnto a Figge: they are of good taste, and grow abundant∣ly in the fields in many places: They worke a strange effect in such as eate them, for if a man eate two, or three, or more, they cause his vrine to be of the very colour of bloud, whith thing chanced once to my selfe. For on a time as I made water, and saw the colour of my Vrine, I entred into a great suspition of my life, being so astonished for feare, that I thought the same had chansed to me vpon some other cause, in so much that surely my imagination might haue done me hurt, but that they which were with me did comfort me immediately, declaring the cause thereof, as they knew by experience, being auncient in∣habitours in those regions. There groweth also another Plant, which the people of the Countrie call Bihaos:* 6.74 this putteth forth certaine straight branches, and very broade leaues, [ 50] which the Indians vse for diuers purposes: for in some places they couer their houses with the leaues thereof, couched and laid after the manner of thatch, whereunto it serueth very well: Sometimes also when it raineth, they cast these ouer their heads, to defend them from the water. They make also certaine chests, which they call Hauas, weaued after a strange sort, and intermixt with the leaues of this Bihaos. These Chests are wrought in such sort,* 6.75 that although it raine vpon them, or they chance to fall into the water, yet are not such things wet as are within them: they are made of the branches of the said Bihaos, with the leaues weaued together therewith. In these they keepe salt, and other subtile things. They vse them also for another purpose, which is this: that finding them in the fields at such time as they haue scarsenesse of victuals, they digge vp the rootes of these Plants while they are yet [ 60] yong, or eate the Plant it selfe, in that part where it is most tender, which is from a foote vnder the ground, where it is as tender and white as a Reede or Bulrush. And for as much as we are now come to the end of this narration, it commeth to my remembrance to make mention

of another thing, which is not farre from my purpose: and this is, how the Indians doe staine or dye cloath of bombage cotton, or any other thing which they intend to dye, of diuers colours,* 6.76 as Blacke, Tawny, Greene, Blew, Yellow, and Red, which they doe with the Barkes, or Rindes, and Leaues of certaine Trees, which they know by experience to be good for this practise: and by this art they make colours in such perfection and excellency,* 6.77 that no better can be de∣uised. But this seemeth a strange thing, that they doe all this in one selfe same Vessell: so that when they haue caused the said Rindes and Leaues to boile together, they make in the same Vessell without any change (as I haue said) as many colours as them listeth. Which thing I suppose to come to passe, by the disposition of the colour which they haue first giuen to the thing that they intend to dye or colour, whether it be Thred, Web, or Cloth, or any thing that [ 10] they intend to colour.

Of venemous Apples, wherewith they poyson their Arrowes.

THe Apples wherewith the Indian Canibals inuenome their arrowes, grow on certaine Trees couered with many Branches and Leaues, being very greene, and growing thicke. They are laden with abundance of these euill fruites, and haue their Leaues like the Leaues of a Peare-tree, but that they are lesse and rounder: the fruite is much like the muscadell Peares [ 20] of the Iland of Sicilie or Naples in forme and bignesse, and are in some parts stained with red spots, and of very sweet sauour: these trees for the most part, grow euer by the Sea Coasts, and neere vnto the water, and are so faire and of pleasant sauour, that there is no man that seeth them, but will desire to eate thereof, insomuch that if it may bee spoken of any fruit yet growing on the earth, I would say that this was the vnhappy fruit whereof our first pa∣rents * 6.78 Adam and Eue tasted, whereby they both lost their felicitie, and procured death to them and their posteritie. Of these fruits, and of the great Ants whose byting causeth swelling (whereof I haue spoken elsewhere) and of the Eu••es, or Lysarts, and Vipers, and such other venomous things, the Canibals which are the chiefe Archers among the Indi∣ans, are accustomed to poyson their Arrowes, wherewith they kill all that they wound: These venomes they mingle together, and make thereof a blacke Masse or composition, which [ 30] appeareth like vnto very blacke Pitch. Of this poyson I caused a great quantitie to bee burnt, in Sancta Maria Antiqua, in a place two leagues and more within the Land, with a great mul∣titude of thei•• inuenomed Arrowes and other munition, with also the house wherein they were reserued: This was in the yeere 1514. at such time as the Armie arriued there with Captaine Pedrarias de Villa, at the commaundement of the Catholike King Don Ferdinando. But to returne to the Historie. These Apples (as I haue sayde,) grow neere vnto the Sea: the Christians which serue your Maiestie in these patties, suppose that there is no remedie so profitable for such as are wounded with these Arrowes, as is the wa∣ter of the Sea, if the wound bee much washed therewith, by which meanes some haue [ 40] escaped, although but few: yet to say the truth, albeit the water of the Sea, haue a certaine caustike qualitie against poyson, it is not sufficient remedie in this case,* 6.79 nor yet to this day haue the Christians perceiued that of fiftie that haue beene wounded, three haue recouered. But that your Maiestie may the better consider the force of the venome of these trees, you shall further vnderstand, that if a man doe but repose himselfe to sleepe a lit∣tle while vnder the shadow of the same, he hath his head▪ and eyes so swolne when he riseth, that the eye lids are ioyned with the cheekes, and if it chance one drop or more of the deaw of the said tree to fall into the eye, it vtterly destroyeth the sight. The pestilent nature of this tree is such, that it cannot be declared in few words. Of these, there groweth great plentie in the gulfe of Vraba, toward the North coast, on the West and East side.* 6.80 The wood of these trees when it burneth, maketh so great a stinke, that no man is able to abide it, by reason it causeth so great a [ 50] paine in the head.

Among other trees which are in these Indies, as well in the Ilands, as in the firme land, there is another kind which they call Xagua, whereof there is great plentie: they are very high,* 6.81 and streight, and faire to behold. Of these they vse to make Pikes, and Iauelins of diuers lengths and bignesse: they are of a faire colour, betweene russet and white: this tree bringeth forth a great fruit as big as Papauer or Poppi••, and much like thereunto, it is very good to be eaten when it is ripe. Out of this they get a very cleare water, wherewith they wash their legs, and some∣times all their bodies, when they feele their flesh weary, faint, or loose: the which water, beside that it hath a binding qualitie, it hath also this propertie, that whatsoeuer it toucheth, it staineth it blacke by little and little, vntill is be as blacke as ••et, which colour [ 60] cannot bee taken away in lesse space then tenne or twelue dayes:* 6.82 And if the nayle bee but touched therewith, it is so stained, that it can by no meanes be taken away, vntill it either fall of, or grow out, and be clipped away by little and little, as I my selfe haue oftentimes seene by experience.

* 6.83There is another kinde of Trees which they call Hohi: these are very great and faire, and cause wholesome aire where they grow, and a pleasant shadow, and are found in great abundance: their fruit is very good, and of good taste and sauour, and much like vnto certaine Damsons or Prunes being little and yellow, but their stone is very great, by reason whereof they haue but little meate: their Barke or Rinde boyled in water, maketh a wholesome Bathe for the legges, because it bindeth and stayeth the loosenesse of the flesh, so sensibly that it is a maruell to consi∣der. It is surely a wholesome and excellent Bathe against such faintnesse, and is the best Tree that may be found in those parts to sleepe vnder: For it causeth no heauinesse of the head, as doe diuers other Trees, which thing I speake, because the Christians are much accustomed in those Regions to lie in the fields. It is therefore a common practice among them, that wheresoeuer [ 10] they finde these Trees, there they spreade their Mattresses and Beds wherein they sleepe.

* 6.84There are also a kinde of high Date trees, and full of thornes: the wood of these is most ex∣cellent, being very blacke and shining, and so heauie that no part thereof can swim aboue the wa∣ter,* 6.85 but sinketh immediatly to the bottom. Of this wood they make their Arrowes and Darts, also Iauelins, Speares, and Pikes: and I say Pikes, because that in the coasts of the Sea of Sur, beyond Esquegua and Vracha, the Indians vse great and long Pikes, made of the wood of these Date trees. Of the same likewise they make Clubs, and Swords, and diuers other weapons: Also vessels and houshold stuffe of diuers sorts, very faire and commodious. Furthermore, of this wood the Christians vse to make diuers musicall instruments, as Claricymbals, Lutes, Gitterns, and such other, the which beside their faire shining colour like vnto jeat, are also of a good sound, [ 20] and very durable, by reason of the hardnesse of the wood.

* 6.86After that I haue said thus much of Trees and Plants, I haue thought good also to speake some∣what of Herbs. You shall therefore vnderstand, that in these Indies there is an herbe much like vnto a yellow Lilly, about whose leaues there grow and creepe certaine Cordes or Laces, as the like is partly seene in the herbe which we call Laced sauory, but these of the Indies are much big∣ger, and longer, and so strong that they tie their hanging beds thereby, which they cell Hama∣cas,* 6.87 whereof we haue spoken elsewhere: these Cordes they call Cabuia, and Henequen, which are all one thing, sauing that Henequen is lesse and of a finer substance, as it were Line, and the o∣ther is grosser, like the wike or twist of Hempe, and is imperfect in comparison to the other: they are of colour betweene white and yellow, like vnto abarne, and some also white. With Henequen,* 6.88 which is the most subtile and fine threed, the Indians saw in sunder Fetters, Chaines, [ 30] or barres of Iron, in this manner: They mooue the threed of Henequen vpon the Iron which they intend to saw or cut, drawing the one hand after the other as doe they that saw, putting euer now and then a portion of fine Sand ••pon the threed, or on the place or part of the Iron, where they continue rubbing the said threed, so that if the threed be worne, they take another, and con∣tinue in their worke as before, vntill they haue cut in sunder the Iron, although it bee neuer so bigge, and cut it as if it were a tender thing, and easie to be sawen.

And forasmuch as the leaues of Trees may be counted among Herbs, I will here speake some∣what of the qualitie of the leaues of certaine Trees which are found in the Iland of Hispaniola.* 6.89 These trees are so full of thornes,* 6.90 that there is no tree or plant that seemeth more wilde and de∣formed: [ 40] so that I cannot well determine whether they bee Trees or Plants: they haue certaine branches full of large and deformed leaues, which branches were first leaues like vnto the other. As the branches made of these leaues grow forth in length, there commeth other leaues of them: so that in fine it is a difficult thing to describe the forme of these trees, except the same should be done by a Painter, whereby the Eye might conceiue that wherein the Tongue faileth in this be∣halfe.* 6.91 The leaues of this tree are of such vertue, that being well beaten and spred vpon a cloth, after the manner of a plaister, and so laid to a legge or arme that is broken in many pieces, it hea∣leth it in fifteene dayes, and maketh it as whole as though it had neuer beene broken: During the time of this operation, it cleaueth so fast to the flesh, that it cannot without much difficultie be taken away, but assoone as it hath healed the sore, and wrought his operation, it looseth it selfe [ 50] from the place where it was laid, as I my selfe, and diuers other which haue proued it, know by experience.

Of Fishes, and of the manner of fishing.

IN the Sea coasts of the firme Land, there are diuers and sundrie kindes of fishes, much diffe∣ring in shape and forme. And although it be impossible to speake of all, yet will I make men∣tion of some. And first to begin at Sardines, you shall vnderstand that there is found a kinde of these fishes very large and with red tailes, being a very delicate fish. The best kindes of other fishes are these, Moxarre, Diabace, Brettes, Dabaos, Thornbacks, and Salmons: All these, and [ 60] diuers▪ other which I doe not now remember, are taken in great quantitie in Riuers. There are likewise taken very good Cre••ishes. There are also found in the Sea, certaine other fishes, as Soles, Mackerels,* 6.92 Turbuts, Palamite, Lazze, Polpi, Chieppe, Xaibas, Locusts, Oisters, exceeding great Tortoises, and Tiburoni of maruellous bignesse: also Manates, and Murene, and many other fishes,

which haue no names in our language, and these of such diuersitie and quantitie, as cannot bee expressed without large writing and long time. But to let passe to intreate particularly of the multitude of fishes, I intend to speake chiefly, and somewhat largely, of three sorts of most no∣table fishes: whereof the first is, the great Tortoises, the second is called Tiburon, and the third Manate. And to begin at the first, I say that in the Iland of Cuba,* 6.93 are found great Tortoises (which are certaine shell fishes) of such bignesse that ten or fifteene men are scarsly able to lift one of them out of the water, as I haue beene informed of credible persons dwelling in the same Iland. But of that which I my selfe haue seene, I can testifie, that in the firme Land, in the vil∣lage of Acla, there are of this sort some taken and killed of such bignesse, that sixe men with much difficultie could scarsly draw them out of the water, and commonly the least sort of them [ 10] are as ••uch as two men may carry at a burden: that which I saw lifted vp by sixe men, had her shell a yard and a quarter in length, and in breadth more then fiue yards. The manner of taking them, is this: It sometimes chanceth that in their great nets (which they call shoote nets) there are found certaine Tortoises of the common sort, in great quantities, and when they come out of the Sea, and bring forth their egges, and goe together by companies from the Sea, to feede on the Land, the Christians or Indians follow their steps which they finde in the Sand, and soone ouer∣take them, because they are very heauie and slow in going, although they make all the haste they can to returne to the Sea, assoone as they espy any body. When they that pursue them haue o∣uertaken them, they put a stake or staffe vnder their legs, and ouerturne them on their backs as [ 20] they are yet running, so that they can goe no further, nor yet rise againe or turne, and thus they suffer them to lye still while they follow after the rest, which they ouerturne in like manner: and by this meanes take very many, at such times as they come forth of the Sea, as I haue said: This fish is very excellent and wholesome to be eaten, and of good taste.

The second of the three fishes whereof I haue spoken, is the Tiburon: this is a very great fish,* 6.94 and very quick and swift in the water, and a cruell Deuourer: these are oftentimes taken, aswell when the ships are vnder saile in the Ocean, as also when they lye at anker, or at any other time, and especially the least kinde of these fishes. When the ships are vnder saile, the biggest sort are taken after this manner. When the Tiburon seeth the ship sayling, hee followeth it swimming behind, the which things the Mariners seeing, cast forth all the filth of the ship into the Sea for [ 30] the fish to eate, who neuerthelesse followeth them with equall pase, although they make neuer such haste with full winde and sailes, and walloweth on euery side and about the ship, and thus followeth it sometime for the space of a hundred and fiftie leagues, and more, and when the Ma∣riners are disposed to take them, they cast downe by the sterne of the ship a hooke of Iron, as bigge as the biggest finger of a mans hand, of three spans in length, and crooked like a fish-hooke, with beards according to the bignesse thereof, and fastned to an Iron chaine of fiue or sixe linkes neere vnto the end, and from thence tyed with a great rope, fastning also on the hooke for a bait, a piece of some fish, or hogs flesh, or some other flesh, or the bowels and intrals of another Tibu∣ron which they haue taken before, which may easily be done, for I haue seene nine taken in one day, and if they would haue taken more, they might also. Thus when the Tiburon hath pleasant∣ly [ 40] followed the ship a long voyage, at the length he swalloweth the bait with the hooke, and aswell by his striuing to flee or escape, as also by the swift passage of the ship, the hooke ouer∣thwarteth and catcheth hold of his chaps: the which fish when it is taken, it is of such huge bignesse, that twelue or fifteene men are scarsly able to draw it out of the water, and lift it into the ship, where one of the Mariners giueth it many knocks on the head with a club or beetle, vntill he haue slaine it: they are sometimes found of ten or twelue foote long, and of fiue, sixe, or seuen spans in breadth, where they are broadest: they haue very great and wide mouthes, to the proportion of the rest of their bodies, and haue two rowes of teeth, the one somewhat separate from the other, of cruell shape, and standing very thicke. When they haue slaine this fish, they cut the body thereof in small pieces, and put it to drie, hanging it three or foure dayes at the [ 50] Cordes of the saile clothes to drie in the winde, and then eate it: It is doubtlesse a good fish, and of great commoditie to serue the ships for victualls for many dayes: the least of these fishes are most wholesome and tender,* 6.95 it hath a skin much like to the skin of a Sole whereunto the said Ti∣buron is like in shape: Which I say, because Plinie hath made mention of none of these three fishes, among the number of them whereof he writeth in his Naturall historie. These Tiburons come forth of the Sea, and enter into the Riuers, where they are no lesse perillous then great Li∣zards or Crocodiles, whereof I haue spoken largely before: For they deuoure Men, Kine,* 6.96 and Hor∣ses, euen as doe the Crocodiles: they are very dangerous in certaine washing places or Pooles by the Riuers sides, and where they haue deuoured at other times. Diuers other fishes both great and small, of sundrie sorts and kindes, are accustomed to follow the ships going vnder saile, of the [ 60] which I will speake somewhat when I haue written of Manate,* 6.97 which is the third of the three whereof I haue promised to entreat. Manate therefore, is a fish of the Sea, of the biggest sort, and much greater then the Tiburon in length and breadth, and is very brutish and vile, so that it appeareth in forme like vnto one of those great vessels made of Goats skins, wherein they vse to carry new wine in Medina de Campo, or in Areualo: the head of this beast is like the head of an

Oxe, with also like eyes, and hath in the place of armes, two great stumps wherwith he swim∣meth: It is a very gentle and tame beast, and commeth oftentimes out of the water to the next shoare, where if he finde any herbes or grasse, he feedeth thereof. Our men are accustomed to kill many of these, and diuers other good fishes, with their Crosse-bowes, pursuing them in Barkes or Canoas, because they swim in manner aboue the water: the which thing when they see, they draw them with a hooke tyed at a small corde, but somewhat strong: As the fish fleeth away, the Archer letteth goe, and prolongeth the corde by little and little, vntill he haue let it goe many fa∣thoms: at the end of the corde, there is tyed a corke, or a piece of light wood, and when the fish is gone a little way, and hath coloured the water with his bloud, and feeleth himselfe to faint and draw toward the end of his life, he resorteth to the shoare, and the Archer followeth, gathe∣ring [ 10] vp his corde, whereof while ••here yet remaine sixe or eight fathoms, or somewhat more or lesse, he draweth it toward the Land, and draweth the fish therewith by little and little, as the waues of the Sea helpe him to doe it the more easily: then, with the helpe of the rest of his com∣panie, he lifteth this great beast out of the Water to the Land, being of such bignesse, that to conuey it from thence to the Citie, it shall be requisite to haue a Cart with a good yoke of Oxen, and sometimes more, according as these fishes are of bignesse, some being much greater then o∣ther some in the same kinde, as is seene of other beasts: Sometimes they lift these fishes into the Canoa or Barke, without drawing them to the Land as before, for as soone as they are slaine, they flote aboue the water: And I beleeue verily that this fish is one of the best in the world to the taste, and the likest vnto flesh, especially so like vnto beefe, that who so hath not seene it whole, [ 20] can iudge it to be none other when hee seeth it in pieces then very Beefe or Veale, and is cer∣tainly so like vnto flesh, that all the men in the world may herein be deceiued: the taste likewise, is like vnto the taste of very good Veale, and lasteth long, if it be powdred: so that in fine, the Beefe of these parts, is by no meanes like vnto this. This Manate hath a certaine stone, or ra∣ther bone in his head within the braine,* 6.98 which is of qualitie greatly appropriate against the dis∣ease of the stone, if it be burnt and ground into small powder, and taken fasting in the morning when the paine is felt, in such quantitie as may lye vpon a peny, with a draught of good whi••e wine: For being thus taken three or foure mornings, it acquieteth the griefe, as diuers haue told me which haue proued it true, and I my selfe by testimonie of sight, doe witnesse that I haue seen this stone sought of diuers for this effect. [ 30]

There are also diuers other fishes as bigge as this Manate, among the which there is one called Vihnella. This fish beareth in the top of his head a sword, being on euery side full of many sharp teeth: this sword is naturally very hard and strong, of foure or fiue spans in length, and of pro∣portion according to the same bignesse: and for this cause is this fish called Spada, that is, the Sword fish. Of this kinde some are found as little as Sardines, and other so great, that two yokes of Oxen are scarsly able to draw them on a Cart.* 6.99 But whereas before I haue promised to speake of other fishes, which are taken in these Seas while the ships are vnder saile, I will not forget to speake of the Tunny,* 6.100 which is a great and good fish, and is oftentimes taken and kild with Trout speares, and hookes, cast in the water, when they play and swim about the ships. In like manner also are taken many Turbuts,* 6.101 which are very good fishes as are lightly in all the Sea. And here is [ 40] to be noted, that in the great Ocean Sea, there is a strange thing to be considered, which all that haue beene in the Indies affirme to bee true:* 6.102 And this is, that like as on the Land there are some Prouinces fertile and fruitfull, and some barren, euen so doth the like chance in the Sea: So that at some windes the ships saile fiftie, or a hundred, or two hundred leagues and more▪ without ta∣king or seeing of one fish: and againe, in the selfe same Ocean in some places, all the water is seen tremble by the moouing of the fishes, where they are taken abundantly. It commeth further to my remembrance to speake somewhat of the flying of fishes,* 6.103 which is doubtlesse a strange thing to behold, and is after this manner. When the ships saile by the great Ocean, following their viage, there riseth sometimes on the one side or on the other, many companies of certaine little fishes, of the which the biggest is no greater then a Sardine, and so diminish lesse and lesse from [ 50] that quantitie, that some of them are very little: these are called Volatori, that is, flying fishes: they rise by great companies and flocks, in such multitudes that it is an astonishment to behold them: Sometimes they rise but little from the water, and (as it chanceth) continue one flight for the space of an hundred paces, and sometimes more, or lesse, before they fall againe into the Sea, sometimes also they fall into the ships. And I remember, that on an euening when all the com∣panie in the ship were on their knees, singing Salue Regina, in the highest part of the Castle of the poope, and sailed with a full winde, there passed by vs a flocke of these flying fishes, and came so neere vs, that many of them fell into the ship, among the which, two or three fell hard by mee, which I tooke aliue in my hand, so that I might well perceiue•• that they were as bigge as Sardines, and of the same quantitie, hauing two wings or quils growing out of their sinnes, like vnto those wherewith all fishes swim in Riuers: these wings are as long as the fishes themselues. As long as [ 60] their wings are moist, they beare them vp in the aire, but assoone as they are drie, they can conti∣nue their flight no further then as I haue said before, but fall immediatly into the Sea, and so rise againe, and flie as before from place to place. In the yeere 1515. when I came first to enforme

your Maiestie of the state of the things in India, and was the yeere following in Flanders in the time of your most fortunate successe in these your Kingdomes of Arragon and Castile, whereas at that voyage I sayled aboue the Iland Bermuda, otherwise called Garza,* 6.104 being the furthest of all the Ilands that are found at this day in the world, and arriuing there at the depth of eight yards of water, and distant from the Land as farre as the shot of a piece of Ordinance, I determined to send some of the ship to Land, aswell to make search of such things as were there, as also to leaue in the Iland certaine Hogs for increase. But the time not seruing my purpose by reason of con∣trarie winde, I could bring my ship no neerer the Iland, being twelue leagues in length, and sixe in breadth, and about thirtie in circuit, lying in the three and thirtieth degree of the North side. [ 10] While I remayned here, I saw a strife and combat betweene these flying fishes, and the fishes na∣med Gilt heads, and the fowles called Sea-mewes, and Cormorants, which surely seemed vnto me a thing of as great pleasure and solace as could be deuised, while the Gilt heads swam on the brim of the water, and sometimes lifted their shoulders aboue the same, to raise the flying fishes out of the water to driue them to flight, and follow them swimming to the place where they fall, to take and eate them suddenly. Againe on the other side, the Sea-mewes and Cormorants, take ma∣ny of these flying fishes, so that by this meanes they are neither safe in the Aire,* 6.105 nor in the Wa∣ter. In the selfe same perill and danger doe men liue in this mortall life, wherein is no certaine securitie, neither in high estate, nor in lowe. Which thing surely ought to put vs in remem∣brance of that blessed and safe resting place which God hath prepared for such as loue him, who [ 20] shall acquiet and finish the trauailes of this troublesome world, wherein are so many dangers, and bring them to that eternall life where they shall finde eternall securitie and rest.

Of the increase and decrease (that is) rising and falling of our Ocean Sea, and South Sea, called the Sea of Sur.

I Will now speake of certaine things which are seene in the Prouince, or at the least in the Ci∣tie of Golden Castile, otherwise called Beragua, and in the coasts of the North Sea,* 6.106 and of the South Sea, called the Sea of Sur, not omitting to note one singular and maruellous thing which I haue considered of the Ocean Sea, whereof hitherto no Cosmographer, Pilot, or Mariner, or any [ 30] other, haue satisfied me. I say therefore, as it is well knowne to your Maiestie, and all such as haue knowledge of the Ocean Sea, that this great Ocean casteth from it selfe the Sea Mediterra∣neum by the mouth of the Straight of Gibralterra, in the which the water,* 6.107 from the end and furthest part of that Sea, euen vnto the mouth of the said Straight, either in the East toward the coast commonly called Leuante, or in any other part of the said Sea Mediterraneum, the Sea doth not so fall nor increase, as reason would iudge for so great a Sea, but increaseth very little, and a small space: Neuerthelesse, without the mouth of the Straight in the mayne Ocean, it increaseth and falleth very much, and a great space of ground, from sixe houres to sixe houres, as in all the coasts of Spaine, Britaine, Flanders, Germanie, and England. The selfe same Ocean Sea in the firme Land newly found, in the coasts of the same lying toward the North, doth neither rise nor fall, nor likewise in the Ilands of Hispaniola and Cuba,* 6.108 and all the other Ilands of the same lying to∣ward [ 40] the North, for the space of three thousand leagues, but onely in like manner as doth the Sea Mediterraneum in Italie, which is in manner nothing, in respect to that increase and decrease which the said Ocean hath in the coasts of Spaine and Flanders. But this is yet a greater thing, that also the selfe same Ocean in the coasts of the said firme Land lying toward the South, in the Citie of Panama,* 6.109 and also in the coast of that Land which lyeth toward the East and West from that Citie, as in the Iland of Pearles or Margarita, which the Indians call Tarrarequi, and also in Taboga and Otoque, and in all other Ilands of the South Sea of Sur, the water riseth and falleth so much, that when it falleth, it goeth in manner out of sight, which thing I my selfe haue seene oftentimes. And here your Maiestie may note another thing,* 6.110 that from the North Sea to the South Sea, being of such difference the one from the other in rising and falling, yet is the Land [ 50] that diuideth them not past eighteene or twentie leagues in breadth from Coast to Coast: So that both the said Seas, being all one Ocean, this strange effect is a thing worthy greatly to bee considered of all such as haue inclination and desire to know the secret workes of Nature, where∣in the infinite power and wisedome of God is seene to be such, as may allure all good Natures to reuerence and loue so diuine a Majestie.

Of the straight or narrow passage of the Land lying betweene the North and South Sea, by the which Spices may much sooner and easilier be brought from the Ilands of Molucca into Spaine by the West Ocean, then by that way where∣by [ 60] the Portugals saile into the East India.

THe firme Land in some parts thereof is so straight and narrow, that the Indians say, that from the Mountaines of the Prouince of Esquegua or Vrraca (which are betweene the one Sea and the other) if a man ascend to the top of the Mountaines, and looke toward the North,* 6.111

he may see the Water of the North Sea of the Prouince of Beragua: and againe looking the con∣trarie way, may on the other side (towards the South) see the Sea of Sur, and the Prouin∣ces which confine with it, as doe the Territories of the two Lords or Kings of the said Prouin∣ces of Vrraca and Esquegua. Some measure this way in this part, to bee from Sea to Sea eigh∣teene leagues, which I suppose to bee rather twentie, not for that it is any more by measure, but because it is rough and difficult, as I haue said, and as I haue found it by experience, ha∣uing now twise passed that way by foote, counting from the Port and Village of Nombre de Dios, vnto the Dominion of the Cacique of Iuanaga, otherwise called Capira, eight leagues, and from thence to the Riuer of Chagre, other eight leagues. So that at this Riuer, being six∣teene leagues from the said Port,* 6.112 endeth the roughnesse of the way: then from hence to the [ 10] maruellous Bridge are two leagues, and beyond that, other two, vnto the Port of Panama: So that all together, in my iudgement, make twentie leagues. It is a maruellous facilitie to bring Spices by this way which I will now declare. From Panama to the Riuer of Chagre, are foure leagues of good and faire way, by the which Carts may passe at pleasure, by reason that the Mountaines are but few and little, and that the greatest part of these foure leagues is a plaine ground void of Trees: and when the Carts are come to the said Riuer, the Spices may be carried in Barkes and Pinases. For this Riuer entreth into the North Sea fiue or sixe leagues lower then the Port of Nomen Dei, and emptieth it selfe in the Sea neere vnto an Iland called Bastimento, where is a very good and safe Port.* 6.113 Your Maiestie may now therefore consider, how great a thing, and what commoditie it may be to conuey Spices this way, forasmuch as the Riuer of [ 20] Chagre, hauing his originall onely two leagues from the South Sea, continueth his course, and emptieth it selfe into the other North Sea. This Riuer runneth fast, and is very great, and so commodious for this purpose as may bee thought or desired:* 6.114 the maruellous Bridge made by the worke of Nature, being two leagues beyond the said Riuer, and other two leagues on this side the Port of Panama, so lying in the mid way betweene them both, as framed naturally in such sort, that none which passe by this voyage doth see any such Bridge, or thinke that there is any such building in that place, vntill they be in the top thereof, in the way toward Pana∣ma: But assoone as they are on the Bridge, looking toward the right hand, they see a little Ri∣uer vnder them, which hath his Channell distant from the feete of them that walke ouer it, the space of two speares length or more. The water of this Riuer is very shallow, not passing the [ 30] depth of a mans legge to the knee, and is in breadth betweene thirtie and fortie paces, and fal∣leth into the Riuer of Chagre. Toward the right hand, standing on this Bridge, there is no∣thing seene but great Trees.* 6.115 The largenesse of the Bridge contayneth fifteene paces, and the length thereof about threescore or fourscore paces: The Arch is so made of most hard stone, that no man can behold it without admiration, being made by the High and Omnipotent Creator of all things.

How things that are of one kinde, differ in forme and qualitie, according to the nature of the place where they are engendred or grow, and of the beasts called Tigres. [ 40]

* 6.116IN the firme Land are found many terrible beasts, which some thinke to be Tigres. Which thing neuerthelesse I dare not affirme, considering what Authors doe write of the lightnesse and agilitie of the Tigre, whereas this beast, being otherwise in shape very like vnto a Tigre, is notwithstanding very slow. Yet true it is, that according to the maruailes of the World, and differences which naturall things haue in diuers Regions vnder Heauen, and diuers constellati∣ons of the same,* 6.117 vnder the which they are created, wee see that some such Plants and Herbes as are hurtfull in one Countrie, are harmelesse and wholesome in other Regions. And Birds which in one Prouince are of good taste, are in other so vnsauourie that they may not bee eaten. Men likewise which in some Countries are blacke, are in other places white: and yet are both [ 50] these and they,* 6.118 men. Euen so may it be, that Tigres are light in some Region, as they write, and may neuerthelesse be slow and heauie in these Indies of your Maiestie, whereof wee speake. The Sheepe of Arabie draw their tailes long and bigge on the ground,* 6.119 and the Bulls of Egypt haue their haire growing toward their heads: yet are those Sheepe, and these Bulls. Men in some Countries are hardie and of good courage, and in other naturally fearfull and bruitish. All these things, and many more, which may be said to this purpose, are easie to bee prooued, and worthy to bee beleeued, of such as haue read of the like in Authors, or trauelled the World, whereby their owne sight may teach them the experience of these things whereof I speake. It is also manifest that Iucca,* 6.120 whereof they make their bread in the Iland of Hispaniola, is deadly poison if it be eaten greene with the juyce: and yet hath it no such propertie in the firme Land, [ 60] where I haue eaten it many times,* 6.121 and found it to be a good fruit. The Bats of Spaine, although they bite, yet are they not venemous: but in the firme Land, many die that are bitten of them. And in this forme may so many things be said, that time shall not suffice to write, whereas my intent is onely to prooue that this beast may be a Tigre, or of the kinde of Tigres, although it

bee not of such lightnesse and swiftnesse, as are they whereof Plinie and other authors speake,* 6.122 describing it to bee one of the swiftest beasts of the Land, and that the Riuer of Tygris for the swift course thereof was called by that name. The first Spaniards, which saw this Tyger in the firme land, did so name it. Of the kind of these, was that which Don Diego Columbo,* 6.123 the Admiral sent your Maiesty out of New Spaine to Toledo. Their heads are like to the heads of Lions, or Lio∣nesses▪ but greater: the rest of all their bodies, and their legs, are full of black spots one neere vnto another, & diuided with a circumference, or fringe of red colour, shewing (as it were) a faire work and correspondent picture, about their croopes or hinder parts, they haue these spots biggest and lesse & lesse toward their bellies, legs, & heads. I haue seen some of three spans in height, and more then fiue in length. They are beasts of great force, with strong legs, and well armed with nayles [ 10] and fanges, which we call Dog-teeth: they are so fierce, that in my iudgement▪ no reall Lyon of the biggest sort is so strong or fierce. Of these, there are many found in the firme Land, which de∣uoure many of the Indians, and doe much hurt otherwise: but since the comming of the Christi∣ans, many haue beene killed with Crosse-bowes after this manner.* 6.124 Assoone as the Archer hath knowledge of the haunt of any of these Tygers, hee goeth searching their trace, with his Crosse-bow, and with a little Hound or Begle, & not with a grey-hound; because this Beast would soon kill any Dogge that would venter on him: When the Hound hath found the Tigre, he runneth about him baying continually, and approacheth so neere him, snapping and grinning▪ with so quicke flying and returning, that he hereby so molesteth this fierce Beast, that hee driueth him to take the next Tree, at the foot whereof he remayneth still baying, and the Tigre grinning [ 20] and shewing his teeth, while in the meane time the Archer commeth neere, and twelue or four∣teene paces off, striketh him with the querell of his Crosse-brow in the brest, and flyeth incon∣tinent, leauing the Tigre in his trauell for life and death, byting the Tree and eating earth for fiercenesse: then within the space of two or three houres, or the day following, the Archer re∣turneth thither, and with his Dogge findeth the place where hee lyeth dead. The Indians (and especially they of the firme Land in the Prouince which the Catholike King Don Ferdinando commanded to bee called Golden Castile) call this Beast Ochi. This thing is strange that chan∣ced of late: that whereas the Tigre whereof we haue made mention before, would haue killed his keeper that then kept him in a Cage, was in few daies after made so tame,* 6.125 that he led her tyed [ 30] only with a small coard, and plaid with her so familiarly, that I maruelled greatly to see it, yet not without certaine beliefe that this friendship will not last long, without danger of life to the Keeper, forasmuch as surely these Beasts are not meet to be among men, for their fiercenesse and cruell nature that cannot be tamed.

Of the manners and customes of the Indians of the Firme Land, and of their women.

THe manners and customes of these Indians, are diuers in diuers Prouinces. Some of them take as many Wiues as them list, and other liue with one Wife, whom they forsake not [ 40] without consent of both parties, which chanceth especially when they haue no children. The Nobilitie aswel men as women, repute it infamous to ioyne with any of base Parentage or Stran∣gers, except Christians, whom they count Noblemen, by reason of their valiantnesse,* 6.126 although they put a difference betweene the common sort and the other to whom they shew obedience, counting it for a great matter and an honorable thing, if they bee beloued of any of them: inso∣much that if they know any Christian man carnally, they keepe their faith to him, so that hee be not long absent farre from them, for their intent is not to be Widdowes, or to liue chaste like religious women. Many of them haue this custome, that when they perceiue that they are with childe, they take an Hearbe wherewith they destroy that is conceiued:* 6.127 for they say that only well aged women should beare children, and that they will not forbeare their pleasures, [ 50] and deforme their bodies with bearing of children, whereby their Teates become loose and hanging, which thing they greatly dispraise. When they are deliuered of their children, they goe to the Riuer and wash them, which done, their bloud and purgation ceasseth immediately: And when after this they haue a few dayes absteined from the company of men, they become so streight, as they say which haue had carnal familiaritie with them, that such as vse them, cannot without much difficultie satisfie their appetite: They also which neuer had children, are euer as Virgins. In some parts they weare certaine little Aprons round about them before and behind,* 6.128 as low as to their knees and hammes, wherewith they couer their priuy parts, and are naked all their bodie beside. The principall men beare their Priuities in a hollow Pipe of Gold, but the common sort haue them inclosed in the shells of certaine great Welkes, and are be∣side [ 60] vtterly naked: For they thinke it no more shame to haue their Cods seene, then any other part of their bodies: and in many Prouinces both the men and women goe vtterly naked, with∣out any such couerture at all. In the Prouince of Cueua they call a man Chuy, and a woman Ira, which name is not greatly disagreeable to many both of their women and of ours.

These Indians giue great honor and reuerence to their Caciques (that is) their Kings and Ru∣lers.

The principall Cacique,* 6.129 hath twelue of his most strong Indians appointed to beare him, when he remoueth to any place, or goeth abroad for his pleasure. Two of them carrie him sitting vpon a long peece of wood, which is naturally as light as they can finde, the other ten follow next vnto him as footemen: they keepe continually a trotting pase with him on their shoulders. When the two that carrie him are wearie, other two come in their places, without any disturbance or stay. And thus if the way be plaine, they carry him in this manner for the space of fifteene or twenty leagues in one day. The Indians that are assigned to this office, are for the most part slaues, or Na∣borit••, that is, such as are bound to continuall seruice.

I haue also noted that when the Indians perceiue themselues to be troubled with too much bloud,* 6.130 they let themselues bloud in the calfe of their legges, and brawnes of their armes: this doe they with a very sharpe stone, and sometimes with the small tooth of a Viper, or with a [ 10] sharpe reede or thorne. All the Indians are commonly without Beards, in so much that it is in a manner a maruell to see any of them either men or women to haue any downe or haire on their faces,* 6.131 or other parts of their bodies: Albeit I saw the Cacique of the Prouince of Cata∣rapa, who had haire on his face and other parts of his body, as had also his wife in such places as women are accustomed to haue. This Cacique had a great part of his body painted with a blacke colour, which neuer fadeth, and is much like vnto that wherewith the Moores paint themselues in Barbarie in token of Nobilitie.* 6.132 But the Moores are painted specially on their visage and throate, and certaine other parts. Likewise the principall Indians vse these pain∣tings on their armes and breasts, but not on their visages, because among them the slaues are so marked. When the Indians of certaine Prouinces goe to the battaile (especially the Caniball [ 20] Archers) they carrie certaine shels of great welkes of the Sea,* 6.133 which they blow, and make therewith great sound, much like the noise of Hornes: they carrie also certaine Timbrels, which they vse in the stead of Drummes: also very faire Plumes of Feathers, and certaine armour of gold,* 6.134 especially great and round peeces on their breasts, and splints on their armes. Likewise other peeces, which they put on their heads and other parts of their bodies: For they esteeme nothing so much as to appeare gallant in the warres,* 6.135 and to goe in most comely order that they can deuise, glistering with precious Stones, Iewels, Gold, and Feathers. Of the least of these welkes or perewincles, they make certaine little Beades, of diuers sorts and colours: they make also little Bracelets, which they mingle with gandes of Gold, these they roule about their armes from the elbow to the wrest of the hand. The like also doe they on their [ 30] legges from the knees to the soles of their feete, in token of Nobilitie, especially their No∣ble Women in diuers Prouinces are accustomed to weare such Iewels, and haue their neckes in manner laden therewith: these Beades and Iewels, and such other trinkets, they call Caquiras. Beside these also, they weare certaine Rings of Gold at their eares and nostrels, which they bore full of holes on both sides, so that the Rings hang vpon their lippes. Some of these Indians are poulde and rounded; albeit commonly both the Men and Women take it for a decent thing to weare long haire, which the women weare to the middest of their shoulders, and cut it equally, especially aboue their browes: this doe they with certaine hard Stones, which they keepe for the same purpose. The principall Women, when their teates fall, or become loose,* 6.136 beare them vp with barres of Gold, of the length of a spanne and a halfe, [ 40] well wrought, and of such bignesse that some of them weigh more then two hundred Caste∣lans or Ducades of Gold: these barres haue holes at both the ends, whereat they tye two small cords made of Cotton at euery end of the barres: one of these cords goeth ouer the shoulder, and the other vnder the arme holes, where they tye both together, so that by this meanes the barre beareth vp their teates. Some of these chiefe Women goe to the battaile with their Husbands, or when they themselues are regents in any Prouinces, in the which they haue all things at commandement, and execute the office of generall Captaines, and cause themselues to be carried on mens backs, in like manner as doe the Caciques, of whom I haue spoken before.

These Indians of the firme Land are much of the same stature and colour as are they of the I∣lands:* 6.137 they are for the most part of the colour of an Oliue: if there be any other difference, it [ 50] is more in bignesse then otherwise, and especially they that are called Coronati, are stronger and bigger then any other that I haue seene in these parts, except those of the Iland of Giants, which are on the South side of the Iland of Hispaniola, neere vnto the coasts of the firme Land, and likewise certain other which they call Iucatos, which are on the North side. All which chief∣ly, although they be no Giants, yet are they doubtlesse the biggest of the Indians that are known to this day, and commonly bigger then the Flemings; and especially many of them, as well wo∣men as men, are of very high stature, and are all archers both men and women. These Coronati inhabit thirtie leagues in length by these coasts, from the point of Canoa to the great riuer which they call Guadalchiber, neere vnto Sancta Maria de gratia. As I trauersed by those coasts, I filled a butt of fresh water of that riuer, six leagues in the Sea from the mouth thereof where it falleth [ 60] into the Sea. They are called Coronati (that is Crowned) because their haire is cut round by their eares, and poulde lower a great compasse about the Crowne, much like the Friers of Saint Augustines Order. And because I haue spoken of their manner of wearing

their haire, here commeth to my remembrance a thing which I haue oftentimes noted in these Indians: and this is, that they haue the bones of the sculs of their heads foure times thicker, and much stronger then ours, so that in comming to handstroakes with them,* 6.138 it shall be requisite not to strike them on the heads with swords, for so haue many swords beene broken on their heads, with little hurt done.

Of the chiefe Ilands, Hispaniola and Cuba.

THe Indians which at this present inhabit the Iland of Hispaniola, are but few in number, and the Christians not so many as they ought to be, for as much as many of them that [ 10] were in this Iland, are gone to other Ilands, and to the firme Land. For being for the most part yong men vnmarried, and desirous daily to see new things,* 6.139 wherein mans nature delight∣eth, they were not willing to continue long in one place, especially seeing daily other new Lands discouered, where they thought they might sooner fill their Purses, by being present at the first spoile: Wherein neuerthelesse their hope deceiued many of them, and especially such as had houses and habitations in this Iland: For I certainely beleeue, confirming my selfe herein with the iudgement of many other, that if any one Prince had no more seignories then onely this Iland, it should in short time be such, as not to giue place either to Sicilie or England,* 6.140 whereas euen at this present there is nothing wherefore it would malice their prosperity, not be∣ing [ 20] inferiour to them in any felicity, that in manner the heauens can grant to any Land: being furthermore such as may inrich many Prouinces and Kingdomes, by reason of many rich Gold Mines that are in it, of the best Gold that is found to this day in the world,* 6.141 and in greatest quantitie. In this Iland, nature of her selfe bringeth forth such abundance of Cotton,* 6.142 that if it were wrought and maintained, there should be more and better then in any part of the world. There is so great plentie of excellent Cassia,* 6.143 that a great quantitie is brought from thence into Spaine, from whencee it is carried to diuers parts of the world, &c.

In this Iland furthermore are many Sheepe, and a great number of Hogges, of the which (as also of the Kine) many are become wilde, and likewise many Dogges and Cats,* 6.144 of those which were brought out of Spaine: These (and especially the Dogs) doe much hurt among the Cattell, [ 30] by reason of the negligence of the Heard-men. There are also many Horses, Mares, and Mules, and such other Beasts as serue the vse of men in Spaine, and are much greater then they of the first broode brought thither out of Spaine.

Saint Domingo was built by line and rule: the Houses of Stone very faire.* 6.145 There is also a Ca∣thedrall Church builded of late, where as well the Bishop according to his dignity, as also the Canons are well endowed. This Church is well builded of Stone and Lime, and of good work∣manship. There are furthermore three Monasteries, bearing the name of S. Dominicke, S. Francis, and S. Marie of Mercedes, the which are al wel builded, although not so curiously as they of Spain. There is also a very good Hospital for the aid & succor of poore people, which was found by Mi∣chael Passamont, treasurer to your Maiestie.* 6.146 The people of this Iland are commonly of somewhat [ 40] lesse stature then are the Spaniards, & of a shining or cleare brown color:* 6.147 they haue Wiues of their own, and abstaine from their Daughters, Sisters & Mothers: they haue large foreheads, long black haire, and no beards or haire in any other parts of their bodies, as well Men as Women, except ve∣ry few, as perhaps scarsly one among a thousand. They goe as naked as they were borne, except that on the parts which may not with honestie be seene, they weare a certaine leafe as broad as a mans hand, which neuerthelesse is not kept close with such diligence, but that sometimes a man may see that they thinke sufficiently hid. In this Iland are certaine Glowormes,* 6.148 that shine in the night as doe ours, but are much bigger, and giue a greater light: In so much that when the men of the Iland goe any iournies in the night, they beare some of these wormes made fast about their feete and head, in such sort that he that should see them a farre, and ignorant of [ 50] the thing, would be greatly astonished thereat. By the light of these also, the women worke in their houses in the night. These wormes they call Cienas. Their light lasteth for the space of three dayes, and diminisheth as they begin to drie vp. There is also a kinde of Crowes, whose breath stinketh in the morning, and is sweete in the afternoone:* 6.149 the excrement which they auoide, is a liuing worme.

In Cuba, is a certaine kinde of Partridges, being very little, with their feathers much of the colour of Turtle Doues, but are of much better taste to be eaten:* 6.150 they are taken in great number, and being brought wilde into the houses, they become as tame within the space of three or foure dayes as though they had beene hatched there: they become exceeding fat in short space, and are doubtlesse the most delicate and pleasant meate that euer I haue eaten. But [ 60] to let passe many other things that might be here said, and to speake of two marueilous things which are in this Iland of Cuba: whereof the one is, that a Valley containing two or three leagues in length betweene two Mountaines, is full of a kinde of very hard Stones, of such perfect roundnesse, and like vnto Pellets of Gunnes,* 6.151 that no art can make bet∣ter or more exactly polished. Of these, some are as small as Pellets for Handgunnes, and

other so encreasing bigge•• and bigger from that quantitie, that they may serue for all sorts of Artillerie, although they be of bignesse to receiue one or two or more Quintales of powder, euery Quintale containing one hundred weight, or of what other quantitie soeuer they be. These Pellets are found throughout all the Valley within the earth, as in a Mine, which they digge, and take out such as they neede of all sorts. The other marueilou•• thing of this Iland is this:* 6.152 That farre from the Sea, there issueth out of a Mountaine a certaine liquor, much like the Clay of Babylon, called Bitumen, or like vnto Pitch, in great quantitie, and such as is very commodious for the calking of Shippes: this falleth continually from the Rocke, and runneth into Sea, in such abundance that it is seene floting aboue the water on euery side of the Sea thereabout, as it is driuen from place to place by the winde, or course of the water. Quintus Curtius writeth in his Historie,* 6.153 that great Alexander came to the Citie of Memi, [ 10] where is a great Caue or Denne, in the which is a Spring or Fountaine that continually auoi∣deth a great quantitie of Bitumen,* 6.154 in such sort, that it is an easie thing to beleeue that the stones of the wals of Babylon might be laid therewith, according as the said Author writeth. I haue seene this Mine of Bitumen, not onely in the Iland of Cuba, but also such another in new Spaine, in the Prouince of Panuco.

Thus farre I haue giuen you from Master Eden his Edition, wherein because many things necessary to the naturall History of the Indies are in the Authors Summarie, and in his 20. Books of a larger Historie, I haue added hither such things as I thought fittest.

The V••ias are like great Rats, and the Cories like Conies, of which the people in Hispaniola eate, as also of the Yuanas. Chemi and Mohni are little creatures also in that Iland: which [ 20] and their little mute Dogges were all the foure footed Beasts they had, saue that of Rats there is some question. The Indians of Iamaica and Cuba vse to catch fish with the fish Rouerso, as Huntsmen or Falconers vse Hounds or Haukes in their game.* 6.155 The Indians take it sometimes in their Nets, of which I haue eaten: and when they will bring vp one of them they feede it in the Sea and carrie it tied to their Canar by a strong line, which when they see a fish fit for pray, they loosen and vse words to excite courage and valour in this fish; which presently flies like an arrow at that fish and fastens thereon, and the Indian lets the line runne out at length (being oiled,* 6.156 of many fadomes, and hauing a peece of wood at the end to buoy it,) till the fish be weari∣ed: this little fish (little aboue a spanne long, vnsightly to looke on) still holding fast, till the Indian gathering in his cord, prepares to shoare to take the greater fish, with much commenda∣tion [ 30] and words of encouragement to this chase-fish, perswading him to let goe his hold, which otherwise should sooner by violence breake in peeces this Huntsman, then force him to vnfa∣sten. Thus will he fasten on the belly of a Tortoise so great that two Indians and sometimes sixe haue enough to doe to carrie the same to their houses. This fish Rouerso hath scailes Staire fashioned, or like the roofe of a mans mouth, and on them certain prickles very sharpe and strong, whereby he fastens himselfe to what fish him pleaseth: and these prickly scales he hath on the most part of his body.

They haue likewise a cunning wild-goose-chase, in a great Lake casting in certaine great emptie Pompons in the season when Geese resort thither, wherewith they being accustomed grow out of feare and will sit on them to bee carried. Being thus acquainted, the Indian puts [ 40] one of these emptie Pompons on his head, and with much dexteritie of swimming enters a∣mongst the Geese, and when one hath made him his Porter, no part of his body being seene, he swimmes from the rest, and then with his hand pulls her in, and hangs her thus strangled at his girdle, and begins a fresh game.

* 6.157When their Caciques are dead they lay them on a piece of wood or stone, and make a fire a∣bout the same which may not burne them, but by degrees draw forth all the moysture in sweat, leauing onely the skin and bones, and then in a place separate repose the same with the Ance∣stors which before had beene so dealt with; this being their best Booke of Heraldrie to recount the Names and seuerall Descents in that Pedegree. If any die in battell, or so that they cannot recouer his body, they compose Songs which the Children learne touching him, and the man∣ner [ 50] of his death,* 6.158 to supply that memoriall. These Songs they call Areytos. As for Letters they were so ignorant, that seeing the intercourse of Spaniards by Letters, they thought that Letters could speake, and were very cautelous in their carriage of them, lest the Letters might accuse them of ill demeanor by the way.* 6.159 When they will disport themselues, the Men and Women meet and take each other by the hand, and one goeth before which is called Tequina or their Ma∣ster, with certaine paces measured to his singing in a low voice what commeth in his minde, and after him all the multitude answereth in a higher voice with like measures proportioned to the tune, and so continue they three or foure houres, with Chicha or Mayz-wine among; sometimes also changing the Tequina and taking another with a new tune and song. Their Houses are com∣monly [ 60] round like a Tent,* 6.160 and sometimes with a double water passage (which they call Buhio) of good Timber, thatched with Straw or long Grasse, the Walls of Reed pitched into the ground. In the Prouince of Abrayne in Golden Castile and thereabouts, there are many Villages of Indi∣ans which dwell on the tops of Trees in Houses or Roomes there made, to which they ascend

by certaine staires of Besuco, which growes about * 6.161 Trees, and is vsed to binde their Walls and Timbers in their houses before mentioned. Beneath, the ground is fenny and couered with wa∣ter not so high as a man: and where it is deeper, they vse Canoas, and therewith passe to drie Land to sow their Mays and Iucca, Battatas and Aies. In those houses they are secured from wild Beasts, Enemies and Fire. They are not Archers, and vse Clubs. In the Gulfe of Vraba where Rio Grande enters the Sea, are many Palme trees in the middest of the Riuer growing neere toge∣ther, on the tops whereof are houses made as the former and much bigger, in which many Inha∣bitants dwell together, and haue their beds tyed to the lower parts of the said Palme trees▪ These beds they call Hamacas, being couerlets of Cotten of good threed and well wouen, of two or three braces long, but narrower, with cordes at the ends. The cordes are of Cotton, or [ 10] of Henequen or Cabuya, this the courser threed, that the finer and able to cut Iron; made of the leafe of a certaine herbe. These Indians fight also with Clubs, and did much harme to Captaine Vasco Nunes di Balboa his men, which returned with losse not able to ouer-come them. I haue also obserued that these Indians haue the bones of their skulls foure times as thicke as those of the Christians, so that to strike them with a Sword must be warily done, the Swords being thereby often broken.

Besides the Tigre and other beasts before mentioned,* 6.162 in the firme Land are the Beori (the Christians call them Dants, not that they are such, but for some resemblance, as is also said of the Tigre) of the bignesse of a meane Mule, without hornes, ash-coloured: they know not to dresse and tanne their hides. They take them with Dogs, but if they take water, they are fierce and [ 20] cruell. The Gatto Ceruiero is as bigge as the Tigre and very fierce,* 6.163 more dreadfull to the Christi∣ans, the swiftest beast yet found in those parts. The Lions are a little lesse then those of Barbarie and not so full of courage, but fearfull and fugitiue, and hurt none but such as assault them. The Leopards are like those of Barbarie, and are swift and fierce,* 6.164 but neither these nor the Lions haue yet done Christians any harme, nor dor they eate the Indians as the Tigres doe. The Foxes are like those of Spaine, but in colour blacker then blacke veluet, and somewhat lesse then of Spaine.* 6.165 The Red Deere are as those of Spaine, but not so swift. Their Fallow Deere are like those of Spaine,* 6.166 but both Red and Fallow exceed the Spanish in taste. Their Conies or Hares are somewhat like ours, but liker Hares then Conies, yet lesse then the Conies of Spaine.* 6.167 The Marterns are like to [ 30] those of Spaine in bignesse, biting and otherwise: some of them are kept tame and are as full of sport and lesse filthy then the Monkeys. The Monkeys are of innumerable sorts and shapes:* 6.168 some of them so suttle as they imitate the actions of men, as breaking of Pine-apples and Al∣monds with stones: some will throw stones at passengers, or breake boughs to fall on them as they passe by to breake their heads, and retort the arrowes shot at them, and doe other things in∣credible. Some are as little or lesser then a mans hand, and some as great as a meane Mastiffe. The Indian Dogs are little and barke not, some hayrie and some bare,* 6.169 but wagge the taile and leape on those which feede them, and are not so tame as ours. The Churchia is as bigge as a small Conie, tawnie, sharpe-snowted, dog-toothed, long-tayled and eared like a Rat. They doe great harme to their Hennes, killing sometimes twentie or more at once to sucke their bloud: And if they [ 40] then haue young, shee carrieth them with her in a bagge of skin vnder her belly, running alongst the same like a Satchell, which shee opens and shuts at pleasure to let them in and out: and if a∣ny come with light when the Damme and young are at their Hen-bloud dainties, shee receiues them into this bagge, and runneth away with them: and if shee finde the way stopped, shee climbeth vp aboue the Hen-roost, and is sometimes taken aliue or dead in this manner, as I haue seene. Her Teats are within her bagge. It is a stinking creature.

Of Fowles, they haue Eagles, Hawkes, Buzzards, Rauens, &c. as in Spaine.* 6.170 Other differing sorts they haue so many that they need rather a Painter then Relator to describe them. Of Par∣rots I carried ten or twelue sorts at once to King Ferdinand. They flie by couples, a Male and Fe∣male together: and doe much harme to their Corne grounds.* 6.171 There are Night-sparrowes which [ 50] flie by night onely, and strike at the Bats, holding a pleasant pursute after them. They are big∣ger and swifter then Swallowes, hauing a row of white feathers ouerthwart the wing▪* 6.172 The Bats draw much bloud by their bitings; and if they bite one man amongst an hundred persons, the same Bat will in the nights following still single the same person. They stanch the bloud with hot ashes, or water as hot as may be endured, and so I haue beene cured. There are Peacocks, some yellow, some blacke, with tailes like those of Spaine: they are better meat: some are wilde, and some tame, which are brought home young. Other Peacocks they haue,* 6.173 of which the Hens are ill shaped, the Males haue not so great a taile as ours: their necke also is bare of feathers, but couered with a skin which they change after their phantasie into diuers colours. They haue a horne as it were on their front, and haires on the breast (the last seeme Turkeys.)

[ 60] The Sea-Crowes are so many which on the coast of Panama follow the Pilchards or Sardines (as is before said of the Alcatrazzi) that lighting or houering on the Sea,* 6.174 they seeme to couer the same with a blacke carpet of cloth or veluet, going and comming with the Sea. There are Wilde Hens as great as Peacocks, blacke, the head part of the necke gray skins,* 6.175 and not feathe∣red: they eate Carrion and are of vnsauourie taste to be eaten; smell like muske whiles they are

aliue, but that sent dyeth with them: neither are they good for any thing, except their quills to feather arrowes.* 6.176 They are desirous to liue about places inhabited to feede on Carrion. The Par∣triches are gray, as sauourie as those of Spaine, and as great as the Spanish Hens: they haue their brawnes or flesh double, one ouer the other. Their egges are as bigge as Hens egges, but rounder, and coloured like a fine Turkesse stone. The Indians making a sound like theirs, draw them to theirs nets.* 6.177 There are also a lesse kinde. The Pheasants are not in feathers like those of Spaine, nor so goodly, but very sauourie meate like the great Partriches, but are not so great; they are gray, haue long legs and tailes, make a loud whistling noise, and are easily shot.

Flies are not there so many as in these parts of Europe. Their Waspes are greater and sting more dangerously.* 6.178 Their Bees are almost as small as flies, and sting not. They haue great Hiues and Combes which hold foure times as much Honie as ours: their Honie is white. Ants are [ 10] great, many, and doe much damage to the Trees, Sugars, and other prouisions. There are of ma∣ny sorts, some little and black (of which and the Ant-beare is spoken before) some called Conix••n halfe Ant, halfe Worme, very hurtfull; they carry earth on their heads, and therewith on trees, walls, or where they please build their nests, three or foure spans large, and are as hurtfull to houses as Moths to clothes. There are others greater of diuers sorts, some as bigge as Bees with vs, so poysonfull that herewith the Indians infect their arrowes so remedilesse, that not foure of an hundred which are wounded escape: and if this Ant bite a Man he presently falls into a grie∣uous feauer, and the place swelleth much. There are others red, yellow, and some winged. Of Hornets or Horse-flies (Tafani) are many sorts, tedious to expresse. There are also Scorpions in the firme Land.* 6.179 An. 1519. and two yeeres after the Ants destroyed in Hispaniola their Canna∣fistola, [ 20] Oranges▪ and fruit Trees, neither in their houses could they keepe victualls for their mul∣titudes, destroying all like the African Grasse-hoppers, in so much that Saint Domingo was nigh dispeopled by them.

* 6.180They laugh in India to heare the disease called French by the Italians, and Neapolitan by the French, which may indeed be called Indian, where the best remedie Lignum Sanctum, and Guaia∣can grow; God so in iudgement remembring mercy, that where our sinnes produce a punishment, he also sends a remedie. I had acquaintance with diuers which went in the first and second voy∣ages of Columbus: of which was Peter Margarite Commendator in the second voyage, of most respect with the King and Queene, who complayned of those paines. Soone after, in the yeere [ 30] 1496. began the disease to arrest some Courtiers; but in those beginnings, it was onely amongst baser persons of small authoritie: and it was thought that they got it with hauing to doe with common women. But afterwards it extended to principall Persons, and the Physicians could not tell what to thinke of it, so that many dyed. When after this Gonzalo Fernandes di Cordoua was sent with a great Armie by the Catholike Kings, in behalfe of Ferdinand the second King of Naples, against Charles the French King, some diseased persons went with that Armie, and by dealing with the women, and by conuersing, spread the disease to the Italians and French-men, which thence got the names aforesaid, but indeed came from Hispaniola: where it is ordinarie, and the remedie also. Our Author l. 17. c. 4. and Ramufio in his Preface to his third Tome say, That the Souldiers of Pamfilo de Nauaz hauing the small pocks infected the Indians, which neuer before had heard of that disease: in so much that of 1600000. soules in that Iland there are so few left, as by [ 40] and by you shall heare.* 6.181 The Niguas also, creatures lesse then Fleas, which eate in the flesh very dangerously, are rife in that Iland. The people of that Iland when first they were diuided a∣mongst the Spanish Planters, were deemed a Million or more (some say 1600000. of which and of their posteritie in the yeere 1535. were not aboue fiue hundred left, little and great, the rest which then were there being Slaues brought thither from other parts. The couetousnesse of the Myne-workers, neglect of Diet, change of Gouernours growing worse and worse, cau∣sed them to poyson, kill, and hang themselues, besides those which were consumed by infectious or pestilentiall pocks * 6.182 and other diseases: Their owne vices, also Sodomitrie, Idolatrie, &c. prouoked diuine Iustice against them. No prouision could hinder their consumption. The King [ 50] sent Religious men of diuers Orders, but this I know that the Dominicans and Franciscans con∣tradicted each other, and what one approued the other disallowed, although after the other had left that opinion, the Contradictors would embrace it, still agreeing in disagreeing: which cau∣sed much danger not onely to new Conuerts, but also to old Christians: whiles one Order would not absolue them except they franchised the Indians,* 6.183 and the other absolued them neuerthelesse. Much disputation hath beene about the Indians seruice amongst the Thomists, Canonists, and fa∣mous Lawyers and Diuines, but their differences haue done little good to the Indians or the plantation; and in a short time both this Iland and the three adioyning, Saint Iohn, Iamaica, and Cuba, remayned desolate, being by the Friars meanes (which I thinke, meant well) dispersed thorow the Iland,* 6.184 to lessen their labours, which the Gentlemen imposed on them. I am of opi∣nion that if a Christian Prince had this Iland of Hispaniola onely, hee might make it as good as [ 60] either England or Sicily: such is the store of Gold, the prosperous successe of things carried from Spaine, the Beeues (which I knew first carried thither from Spaine) being alreadie so multi∣plyed that they kill them for the Hides, leauing the flesh in the fields of fiue hundred at once:

and Roderigo di Bastidas Bishop of Venesuela hath therein 16000. Beeues, and the Treasurer Pas∣samonte as many; others 8000. or more, likewise in other Beasts, Seeds, Oranges, Limons, F••gs, Pomegranets, &c.

Of their Zemes, Idols, Sepulchres, and other things concerning their Religion,* 6.185 the Reader may see enough in the ninth Booke and fourteenth Chapter of my Pilgrimage; and of the Spanish first voyages thither in the beginning of this worke, which Ouiedo handleth in his former Bookes.

Their Huracans (so they call tempests of winde and raine together) are very excessiue. An. 1508. on the third of August,* 6.186 all the thatched houses in Saint Domingo were throwne to the ground, and some also of stone; all the houses also in the Towne Bonauentura, which might thence be named Malauentura: in the Hauen were sunke twentie Ships and Caruels, a North-wind [ 10] first and after a South-wind playing their furious prizes, one carrying out the Vessels in despight of all prouisions to Sea, and the other as terribly forcing them againe to the Ha∣uen (if the losse of ships and men may permit that name) yea on Land many men were carried in the streets and fields diuers bow-shots before they could stay themselues.* 6.187 Hell seemed to haue beene opened, and the Deuils to haue carried things to and fro. Yet in Iuly following was a worse, which now are allayed and not so violent since the Blessed Sacrament hath beene placed in Churches. I haue seene the space of a Crosse-bow shot or two, all the ground couered with Trees plucked vp by the Windes from the Rootes, and ours haue sometime by dangers of the way beene forced to climbe from tree to tree ouer such a passage, with rents and perills enough.

[ 20] The Cocks in Spaine crow at mid-night and towards day: but here in the shutting in of the e∣uening, or two houres within night, and two houres before day, and not at all at mid-night: some crow in the first watch and not else all night. Their Cats also vse their lusts all the yeere and without walling noise, which in Spaine, France, Sicily, and other places in Europe and Afrike which I haue seene goe on Catter-walling onely about Februarie. In the Ile of Nauaza Westward from Hispaniola in the way thence to Iamaica, the Rocks are seene vnder the water: and amongst them a fathome and fiue foote vnder the salt water there ariseth a spring of good fresh water vpon the Sea, spowting vp bigger then a mans arme, higher then the salt water that it may easily be taken in. I haue not seene it, but Stephen Rocca a person of credit testifieth [ 30] this of his owne sight and taste. But I haue seene in the Iland Dominica at the Riuer Acquata, twentie paces wide, and not deeper then the arme pits, there is a hot spring, that if one take vp the Sands they seeme like embers in his fist, and so is the water a span deepe aboue the Sands, which on the top is fresh and like other water.

Ouiedos 8.9.10. and 11. Bookes are of Plants and Trees in those parts.* 6.188 The 12. of Creatures before mentioned: the 13. of Fishes, in which he telleth that An. 1529. going from the Gulfe of O∣rotigua to Panama two hundred leagues Eastward, neere the mouth of the Gulfe, wee saw a Fish or great Water-monster, which at times lifted it selfe right vp aboue the Water so farre that the head and both the armes might bee seene,* 6.189 which seemed higher then our Carauell and all her Masts. Thus did shee rise and fall diuers times beating the water strongly, not casting [ 40] any water out of the mouth. A younger or lesse of the same kinde did likewise, swimme a little distant from the greater. Some iudged it to bee a Whale with her young one, which o∣thers denyed, saying, a Whale had no armes. To my iudgement each arme might be fiue and twentie foote long, and as bigge as a Butt or Pipe: the head fourteene or fifteene foote high and much more in breadth; and the rest of the body larger. That of her which appeared aboue wa∣ter, was aboue fiue times the height of a meane man, which make fiue and twentie paces. * 6.190 Loren∣zo Martino Canon of the Church of Golden Castile, Sancio di Tudela, &c. were with me: and we were all afraid when shee came neere our small Caruell. Shee seemed to disport her selfe at a tem∣pest approching, which suddenly arose much to our purpose, from the West, and brought vs in few dayes to Panama.

In Hispaniola and the neighbouring Ilands is a strange bird of prey, as bigge as a great * 6.191 Gauia [ 50] and much like it: shee preyeth on the Land on birds, &c. and on fish in the Water,* 6.192 shee is footed like water-fowles and goeth like a Goose, but hath talons like Hawkes, and fastens therewith on the fishes which shee eates (so taken) either in the Water or on the Rocks, or as shee flyeth in the Aire holding it betweene her feete.* 6.193 The Christians call them Astori di acqua.

What scath the Ants did in Hispaniola, is before mentioned,* 6.194 in the yeere 1519. and the next following, and the Citie of Saint Domingo, was almost dishabited by this great Armie of little creatures, as in Spaine a Citie was dispeopled by Conies, and which lately happened to the Ile Porto Santo; in Thessalia (which almost fell out to the English Colonie in Bermuda) to another [ 60] Citie by Rats, to the Atariotae by Frogges, to the Mi••ntines by Fleas, to Amicle in Italie by Serpents, and to another part thereof by Sparrowes; to diuers places of Africa often by Locusts: so can the Great God arme the least creatures to the destruction of proud vainglorious men. And this miserie so perplexed the Spaniards, that they sought as strange a remedie as was the disease,

which was to chuse some Saint for their Patron against the Antes.* 6.195 Alexander Giraldine, the Bi∣shop hauing sung a solemne and Pontificall Masse, after the Consecration and Eleuation of the Sacrament, and deuout Prayers made by him and the people, opened a Booke in which was a Catalogue of the Saints, by lot to chuse some he or she Saint, whom God should please to ap∣point their Aduocate against that Calamitie. And the Lot fell vpon Saint Saturnine whose Feast is on the nine and twentieth of Nouember: after which the Ant-damage became more tolera∣ble and by little and little diminished, by Gods mercie and intercession of that Saint: I note it the rather, because the Bishop and that Saint were both Romanes, and as that Martyr had made mute the Idols in Toledo, (as is written in the Historie of his Martyrdome) so now was Idolatry (and I pray what was this?) destroyed in Hispaniola? Hee might haue said exchanged! a piti∣full [ 10] case that when God hath s••nt his owne Sonne made of a woman, made vnder the Law, &c. Who hath dyed for our (yea,* 6.196 that Martyrs) sinnes, risen for our Iustification, ascended on high to giue gifts to men▪ and is there, and therefore, set downe at Gods right hand to make intercession for vs sinners, to take possession for vs mortals, to accomplish, as our Amen, all the promises of this life, and that which is to come, whether against Ants or Deuils; and in him it hath pleased the Father that all fulnesse should dwell; yea (beyond and it pleased) in him dwelleth the fulnesse of the Godhead bodily, and we are compleate in him, and he is all in all, yesterday, to day, the same for euer; which hath loued vs, and gi∣uen himselfe for vs, which is loue, which hath inuited vs, Come to me all ye that labour, which hath incited vs by all attractiues: that after all this, men, Christian men should goe cast Lots for an Intercessor, and neglecting Christ, dreame of Romane carnall phancies, or runne mad with Romish [ 20] superstitious phrensies; wherein if the bodie be deliuered, as happened to the lusting Israelites, with their Quaile-store, the burthen is made double to the soule, when God heareth in his anger. Such Cisternes doe they digge which forsake the Fountaine of liuing waters, euen broken Cisternes which can hold no waters: the best of Saints like the wise Virgins, hauing no more Oile then will suf∣fice their owne Lampes, and that also receiued out of anothers fulnesse, of whose fulnesse wee all haue receiued grace for grace; said a principall Saint.

There are Caterpillers, which shine in the night fiftie or a hundred paces off, only from that part of the bodie whence the legges issue: others only haue their head shining. I haue seene some a spanne long very fearefull, but for any thing I haue heard, harmelesse. Flies are lesse, but more hurtfull then in Spaine: but these in kindes and colours are so diuersified that it is impossi∣ble [ 30] to write them: and so may be said of other small creatures in those parts.

In his sixteenth Booke he declareth the Conquest of the Ile Borichen, or Saint Iohn and the quarrels betwixt the Spaniards,* 6.197 the learning of some breeding such dissentions, that not with∣out cause (saith our Author) in Golden Castile and in other parts,* 6.198 the King forbad Law-learned men and Proctors should passe thither, as men infectious by sowing strife where they ought not. In this Ile, the people and other things are as before is said of Hispaniola▪ there are more Birds in Saint Iohn, rich Mineralls of Gold, certaine Battes which the people eate; and Lig∣num Sanctum groweth there, more excellent then the Guaiacan for the French Disease and others.

* 6.199In his seuenteenth Booke he writeth of Cuba. The people and other things are much like to [ 40] Hispaniola, In their Mariages, all the guests of the Bridegroomes ranke (as Caciques, if hee bee a Cacique or Principall, or Plebeians as he is) lye with the Spouse before he himselfe may doe it: after which she with her fist bent comes crying with a loud voyce, Manicato, Manicato, that is forced and full of force, as glorying in her shame. They are in vices like those of Hispaniola, and will be no better Christians then other Indians, whatsoeuer Peter Martyr writeth from Encises Relations. For I haue seene more Indians then they both, and by experience of those Nations know,* 6.200 that none or very few of them are Christians of their owne will and accord: and when any are baptized being of age, he doth it more for some by-purpose then for zeale of the faith: for there remaines to him nothing but the name, which also soone after he forgets. Perhaps there are some faithfull, but I beleeue they are very rare. [ 50]

The Creatures and Plants of Spaine prosper well there, as doe the naturall which are the same which are in Hispaniola. The people were exhausted when they first went into New Spaine, and with the second Armie of Grigialua, and with the third of Cortese, and with the fourth of Pamphilo di Narbaez, all by order of Lieutenant Velasco: whereby Cuba was in manner dispeo∣pled, and by the former causes mentioned of Hispaniola, and by the contagion of the small Pockes which was vniuersall in all these Ilands: So that the Great God hath in manner wholly extinguished them for their (not without others) sinnes. They haue much Gold and Brasse: vse to fish much with the Rouerso before mentioned, as also that Wild-goose chase. There are innumerable Cranes, such as are in Spaine; the Boyes take infinite Egges and young ones. There are Turtles greater then in Spaine.* 6.201 Euery yeare there passe from the end of Cuba infinite numbers [ 60] of diuers sorts of Birds, which come from the North of the firme Land, and crosse ouer the A∣lacrain Ilands and Cuba, and flye ouer the Gulfe Southwards. I haue seene them passe ouer Da∣rien and Nombre de dios and Panama in diuers yeeres, in the Firme Land; so many that they co∣uer

the Skie: and this passage or march continueth a moneth or more about the moneth of March. I thinke they flie round about the World;* 6.202 for they neuer are seene to returne toward the West or North: and we see them not euery yeere one after another▪ from morning to night the aire is couered, and some flie so high that they cannot bee seene, others lower yet higher then the Mountaines tops. They come from the North-west and North to the Southwards, and then turne South-west, occupying in length more then the eye can discerne, and a great space in breadth. The lowest are Eaglets and Eagles, and all seeme Birds of prey of many kinds and plumes: The higher cannot bee discerned in their plumes, but in manner of flying and q••ant••tie appeare of diuers sorts.

[ 10] There haue beene Serpents killed in Cuba, as bigge as a mans thigh, and fiue and twentie, or thirtie foot long and more. They are tame, and the Indians eate them, and find sometimes in their bellies sixe or seuen creatures bigger then Conies, which they swallow whole.

I am loth to lead you with this Author along with Grigialua,* 6.203 in his long Expedition from hence to Iucatan and other parts. Neere to Porto de termini, he found two Trees seeming set by hand, standing alone, and fifteene paces off diuers Idols of Chalke.* 6.204 They saw two Images made of the wood Copei, in manner of Sodomiticall villenie ioyned together; and another of Chalke with his circumcised member betwixt his hands.

Iamaica was in people, vices, creatures and other things like the former:* 6.205 they were the In∣uentors of the reuerso-fishing and Goose-catching with Gourds or Pompions aforesaid, which [ 20] sometimes they practised also with leaues and greene boughes on their heads, and vsed that Gar∣land, as is before said of the Pompions. Of Cubagua the Pearle Iland and of the Pearle-fishing is spoken before. In Cubagua is a bituminous Fountayne, hauing otherwise no water to drinke,* 6.206 nor Hearbes, nor Trees but a few of Guaiacan, nor any liuing creatures, though at first comming of the Christians there were a few Conies. At the East point is the Fountayne running into the Sea with an Oily substance floating on it, profitable for Medicine there called Deuils Dung. They that liue there, fetch their water seuen leagues off from Cumana, on the firme Land, and wood from Margarita. The Kings fifth of the Pearle-fishing hath yeelded 15000. Duckets yeerly: a thing not knowne that so many Pearles haue beene taken from so small a space, the Iland of Cubagua not compassing aboue three leagues. In the Gulfe of Or••tig••a, and the Ilands [ 30] therein in the Prouince of Nicaragua on the South Sea, are many shel-fishes of a long forme,* 6.207 some a Cubit long, some lesse, creased, growing broader and broader to the end when they are o∣pened: they haue a fishie substance within them, and shine within as the Pearle-oysters doe, halfe their length, thence by degrees loosing that shining toward the broader end. The Pearles within them are not so fine as the other. The Indians vse the shels to digge their loose ground, fastning the shell to a handle of wood, binding it fast and making a kind of Spade thereof.

In the yeare 1517. An Englishman * 6.208 vnder colour of Discouery came with a great ship to∣wards Brasill on the Firme Land, and thence trauersed to Hispaniola,* 6.209 and came neere the Hauen of Saint Domingo, and sent his Boat full of people on shoare, and desired Trade. But the Cap∣taine of the Fort shot from the Castle at the Boate, because shee came directly to the Port; and [ 40] thereupon they returned to their ship. The English seeing this entertainment, tooke their course towards the Iland of Saint Iohn, and entred the Port of Saint German, and there deman∣ded victuals and prouisions for their ship, complaining of the wrong done them at Saint Domin∣go, comming thither for Trade, to buy with their Mony, and to barter Commodities. There they got some victuals for which they paid in wrought pieces of Pewter and other things: and so returned towards Europe, where it is likely they came not; for there was neuer any more heard of them.

The next yeare a French Pirat guided by a Spanish Pilot,* 6.210 came to trade in the Iland of Pearles and a Portugall Carauell which he had taken on the Coast of Brasill, and would haue landed his Boats full of men, but was resisted, and a Battel betwixt both parts followed, in which thirteene [ 50] Frenchmen were slaine, and two of ours. Three or foure Nauarrois and Biskainers fled from them and said the French were Theeues and came to take the Iland: whereupon they went with all their strength, and tooke her Boat, and the ship fled out of sight, &c.

Ouiedos twentieth Booke is of shipwrackes and disaduentures which haue happened to the Spaniards in those parts. One which happened 1514. is admirable, the ship sinking and fiue and twentie persons escaping in the Boat, hast forbidding prouision of Card, Compasse or vi∣ctuall, to saue their liues. Thus liued they twelue dayes at Sea; neither had they any thing to eate or drinke: only a young man had saued two pounds of Bisket, which beeing diuided a∣mongst them, he which had most had not aboue an ounce and halfe. Vrine, or the Sea was their drinke. In this case they made Vowes to our L••die of Antica in Siuill: and on the twelfth day [ 60] hauing made a Saile of their shirts, they came to Siluer-port in Hispaniola. Their Pilot A••to Caluo told me the Storie. The same yeare in the Pleet of Pedrarias de Auilla a Portugal youth, being scof∣fed at, and flouted by the Spaniards, leaped into the Sea in a fresh gale, and not without the won∣der of all men was taken vp by another ship aliue, whom after I saw vaunting of this folly, and saying that no Castilian durst haue done it; which I easily beleeue, as hauing more wit then this

Foole. Yet will I imitate a little this foolish Portugall, and leape out of Ouiedos Spanish ship (for who will not feare such dreadfull shipwrackes as this Booke, the last which hath come * 6.211 to our hands, is full of?) and swim ashoare, or seeke other passage with Acosta, in a new or rather an old Voyage for Discouerie of the Mexican Antiquities.

CHAP. IIII. Mexican Antiquities gathered out of the Writings of IOSE∣PHVS [ 10] ACOSTA a learned Iesuite.

EVery Historie well written is profitable to the Reader: For as the Wiseman saith, That which hath beene,* 6.212 is, and that which shall bee, is that which hath beene: Hu∣mane things haue much resemblance in themselues, and some grow wise by that which happeneth to others. There is no Nation, how barbarous soeuer, that haue not some∣thing in them, good, and worthy of commendation; nor Common-weale so well orde∣red, that hath not something blame-worthy, and to bee controlled. If therefore there were no other fruit in the Historie and Narration of the Deeds and Gests of the Indians, but this com∣mon vtilitie, to be a Relation or Historie of things, the which in the effect of truth haue happened, it [ 20] deserueth to bee receiued as a profitable thing, neither ought it to bee reiected, for that it concernes the Indians. As wee see that those Authors that treate of naturall things, write not onely of gene∣rous Beasts, notable and rare Plants, and of Precious Stones, but also of wilde Beasts, common Hearbes, and base and vulgar Stones, for that there is alwayes in them some properties worthy obser∣uation. If therefore there were nothing else in this Discourse, but that it is a Historie, and no fables nor fictions, it were no vnworthy Subiect to be written, or read. There is yet another more particular reason, which is, that we ought herein to esteeme that which is worthy of memorie, both for that it is a Nation little esteemed, and also a Subiect different from that of our Europe, as these Nations bee, wherein wee should take most pleasure and content, to vnderstand the ground of their beginning, their [ 30] manner of life, with their happie and vnhappie Aduentures. And this subiect is not onely pleasant and agreeable, but also profitable, especially to such as haue the charge to rule and gouerne them; for the knowledge of their Acts inuites vs to giue credit, and doth partly teach how they ought to be intreated: yea, it takes away much of that common and foolish contempt wherein they of Europe hold them, sup∣posing that those Nations haue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 feeling of reason. For in truth wee cannot cleere this errour better, than by the true report of the Acts and deeds of this people. I will therefore as briefly as I can, intreat of the beginning, proceedings and notable deeds of the Mexicanes, whereby wee may know the time and the disposition that the high God would choose, to send vnto these Nations the Light of the Gospell of Iesus Christ his only Sonne our Lord, whom I beseech to second our small labour, that it may bee to the glorie of his Diuine greatnesse, and some profit to these people, to whom he hath imparted the Law [ 40] of his holy Gospell.

§. I Of the ancient Inhabitants of New Spaine, and of the sixe Linages of the Nauatlacas. Of the Mexican Exodus, and Aduentures by the way: the foundation of Mexico, their first King and Tribute.

[ 50]

THe aneient and first Inhabitants of those Prouinces, which wee call New Spaine, were men very barbarous and sauage,* 6.213 which liued onely by hunting, for this reason they were called Chichimecas. They did neither sow nor till the ground, neither liued they together;* 6.214 for all their exercise was to hunt, wherein they were very expert. They liued in the roughest parts of the Mountaynes beast-like, without any policie, and they went all naked. They hunted wilde Beasts, Hares, Conies, Weezels, Mowles, wild Cats, and Birds, yea vncleane beasts, as Snakes, Lizards, Locusts and Wormes, whereon they fed, with some hearbs and roots. They slept in the Mountaynes, in caues and in bushes, and the wiues likewise went a hunting with their husbands, leauing their young children in a little panier of Reeds, tyed to the boughes of a Tree, which desired not to sucke vntill they were returned from hunting. They had no Superiours, nor did acknowledge or worship any gods, neither had any manner of Cere∣monies [ 60] or Religion.

There is yet to this day in New Spaine of this kind of people, which liue by their Bowes and Arrowes, the which are very hurtfull, for that they gather together in troopes to doe mis∣chiefe,

and to rob: neither can the Spaniards by force or cunning reduce them to any policie or obedience: for hauing no Townes nor places of residence, to fight with them, were properly to hunt after sauage beasts, which scatter and hide themselues in the most rough and couered places of the Mountaynes. Such is their manner of liuing euen to this day, in many Prouinces of the Indies. Those in New Spaine, which they call Ottomies, were of this sort,* 6.215 beeing commonly poore Indians, inhabiting a rough and barren Land, and yet they are in good numbers, and liue together with some order, and such as doe know them, find them no lesse apt and capeable of matters of Christian Religion, then others which are held to be more rich and better gouerned. Comming therefore to our subiect, the Chichimeca•• and Ottomies which were the first Inhabi∣tants [ 10] of New Spaine, for that they did neither till nor sowe the Land, left the best and most fertile of the Countrey vnpeopled, which, Nations that came from farre did possesse, whom they called Nauatalcas, for that it was a more ciuill and politicke Nation; this word signifies a people that speakes well, in respect of other barbarous Nations without reason. These second peoplers Nauatalcas, came from other farre Countreyes, which lye toward the North, where now they haue discouered a Kingdome they call New Mexico.* 6.216

There are two Prouinces in this Countrey, the one called Aztlan,* 6.217 which is to say a place of Herons: the other Tuculhuacan, which signifies a Land of such, whose Grandfathers were diuine. The Inhabitants of these Prouinces haue their houses, their Lands tilled, Gods, Customes, and Ceremonies, with like order and gouernment to the Nauatalcas, and are diuided into seuen Tribes [ 20] or Nations: and for that they haue a custome in this Prouince, that euery one of these Linages hath his place and priuate Territorie, the Nauatalcas paint their beginning and first Territorie in figure of a Caue, and say that they came forth of seuen Caues to come and people the Land of Mexico, whereof they make mention in their Historie, where they paint seuen Caues and men comming forth of them. By the supputation of their Bookes,* 6.218 it is aboue eight hundred yeeres since these Nauatalcas came forth of their Countrey, reducing which to our accompt, was a∣bout the yeere of our Lord 720. When they left their Countrey to come to Mexico, they stayed fourescore yeeres vpon the way; and the cause of this their long stay in their Voyage, was, that their Gods (which without doubt were Deuils, and spake visibly vnto them) had perswa∣ded them to seeke new Lands that had certaine signes. And therefore they came discouering the [ 30] whole Land, to search for these tokens which their Idols had giuen them; and in places where they found any good dwellings, they peopled it, and laboured the Land, and as they discouered better Countreyes, they left those which they had first peopled; leauing still some, especially the aged, sicke folkes, and the wearie, yea, they did plant and build there, whereof wee see the remainders at this day. In the way where they passed, they spent fourescore yeeres in this man∣ner of leisurely trauell, the which they might haue done in a moneth. By this meanes they en∣tred the Land of Mexico, in the yeere 902. after our computation.

These seuen Linages I haue spoken of, came not forth altogether:* 6.219 the first were the Suchimil∣cos, which signifie a Nation of the seeds of flowres. Those peopled the bankes of the great Lake of Mexico towards the South, and did build a Citie of their name, and many Villages. Long time [ 40] after came they of the second Linage called Chalcas, which signifies people of mouthes, who also built a Citie of their name, diuiding their limits and Territories with the Suchimilcos. The third were the Tepanecans, which signifies people of the bridge: they did inhabite vpon the banke of the Lake towards the West, and they increased so, as they called the chiefe and Metropolitane of their Prouince, Axcapuzalco, which is to say, an Ants Nest, and they continued long time mightie. After them came those that peopled Tescuco, which be those of Culhua, which is to say, a crooked people: for that in their Countrey there was a Mountaine much bending. And in this sort this Lake was enuironed with these foure Nations, these inhabiting on the East, and the Tepanecas on the North. These of Tescuco, were held for great Courtiers, for their tongue and pronunciation is very sweet and pleasant. Then arriued the Tlalluicans, which signifies men of [ 50] the Sierre or Mountaine. Those were the most rude and grosse of all the rest,* 6.220 who finding all the Plaines about the Lake possessed euen vnto the Sierre, they passed to the other side of the Mountaine, where they found a very fertile, spacious and warme Countrey, where they built many great Villages, calling the Metropolitane of their Prouince Quahunachua,* 6.221 which is as much to say, as a place that sounds the voice of an Eagle, which our common people call by cor∣ruption, Queruauaca, and at this day they call this Prouince, the Marquisate. Those of the sixt Generation, which are the Tlascaltecans, which is to say, Men of bread, passed the Moun∣taine towards the East, crossing all the Sierre, or Mountaine of Menade,* 6.222 where that famous Vul∣can is betwixt Mexico and the Citie of Angels, where they did find a good Countrey, making many buildings. They built many Townes and Cities, whereof the Metropolitane was called [ 60] by their name Tlascala. This is the Nation which fauoured the Spaniards at their entrie, by whose helpe they did winne this Countrey, and therefore to this day they pay no Tribute, but enioy a generall exemption. When all these Nations peopled these Countreyes, the Chinchime∣cans being the ancient Inhabitants, made no resistance, but fled, and as people amazed, they hid themselues in the most obscure of the Rockes. But those that inhabited on the other side of the

Mountaine where the Tlascaltecans had planted themselues, did not suffer, them in quiet, as the rest of the Chichimecans had done, but they put themselues in defence to preserue their Country, and being Giants as the Histories report,* 6.223 they sought to expell the last Commers, but they were vanquisht by the policy of the Tlascaltecans, who counterfeiting a peace with them, inuited them to a great banquet, and when they were busiest in their drunkennesse, there were some laid in ambush, who secretly stole away their weapons, which were great Clubs, Targets, Swords of wood, and other such armes. Then did they suddenly set vpon them, and the Chichimecans see∣king to defend themselues, they did want their armes, so as they fled to the Mountaines and Fo∣rests adioyning, where they pulled downe Trees, as if they had beene stalkes of Lettuces. But in the end, the Tlascaltecans being armed, and marching in order, they defeated all the Giants, not [ 10] leauing one aliue.* 6.224 We must not hold this of the Giants to be strange, or a fable; for at this day we finde dead mens bones of an incredible bignesse.

When I was in Mexico, in the yeere 1586. they found one of those Giants buried in one of our Farmes, which we call Iesus du Mont, of whom they brought a tooth to bee seene, which (without augmenting) was as bigge as the fist of a man, and according to this, all the rest was proportionable, which I saw and admired at his deformed greatnesse. The Tlascaltecans by this victorie remayned peaceable, and so did the rest of the Linages. These sixe Linages did alwayes entertaine amitie together, marrying their children one with another, and diuiding their limits quietly: then they studied with an emulation to encrease and beautifie their Commonweale. The barbarous Chichimecans, seeing what passed, began to vse some gouernment, and to apparell [ 20] themselues,* 6.225 being ashamed of what had passed: for till then they had no shame. And hauing a∣bandoned feare by their communication with these other people, they began to learne many things of them, building small Cottages, hauing some policy and gouernment. They did also choose Lords, whom they did acknowledge for their Superiors, by meanes whereof they did in a manner quite abandon this bruitish life, yet did they alwayes continue in the Mountaines diui∣ded from the rest.

* 6.226Three hundred and two yeeres after the former two Linages had left their Country, to inha∣bite New Spaine, the Country being now well peopled, and reduced to some forme of gouern∣ment, Those of the seuenth Caue or Line arriued, which is the Mexicane Nation, the which like vnto the rest, left the Prouince of Aztlan, and Teuculhuacan, a politike, courtlike, and war∣like [ 30] Nation. They did worship the Idoll Vitzliputzli, the Deuill that was in this Idoll spake, and gouerned this Nation easily. This Idoll commanded them to leaue their Country, promising to make them Princes and Lords ouer all the Prouinces which the other sixe Nations did pos∣sesse,* 6.227 that he would giue them a Land abounding with gold, siluer, precious stones, feathers, and rich mantels: whereupon they went forth, carrying their Idoll with them in a Coffer of Reedes, supported by foure of their principall Priests, with whom he did talke and reueale vnto them in secret, the successe of their way and voyage, aduising them of what should happen. He likewise gaue them Lawes, and taught them the customes, ceremonies, and sacrifices they should obserue. They did not aduance nor mooue without commandement from this Idoll. He gaue them notice when to march; and when to stay in any place, wherein they wholly obeyed him. The first thing [ 40] they did wheresoeuer they came, was to build a House or Tabernacle for their false god, which they set alwayes in the middest of their Campe, and there placed the Arke vpon an Altar, in the same manner as they haue vsed in the holy Christian Church. This done, they sowed their land for bread and pulses, which they vsed: and they were so addicted to the obedience of their god, that if he commanded them to gather, they gathered, but if he commanded them to raise their Campe, all was left there for the nourishment of the aged, sicke, and wearie, which they left purposely from place to place, that they might people it, pretending by this meanes, that all the Land should remaine inhabited by their Nation.

We may well iudge what this Vitzliputzli was, for that there was neuer seene nor heard speake of customes more superstitious, nor sacrifices more cruell and inhumane, then those which hee [ 50] taught them. To conclude, they were inuented by the enemie of mankinde. The Chiefe and Captaine whom they followed, was called Mexi, whence came the name of Mexico, and of the Mexican Nation.* 6.228 This people marching thus at leisure, as the other sixe Nations had done, peopling and tilling the Land in diuers parts, whereof there is yet some shewes and ruines: and after they had endured many trauels and dangers, in the end they came to the Prouince of Me∣chouacan,* 6.229 which is as much to say, as a land of fish, for there is great abundance in goodly great Lakes, where contenting themselues with the situation and temperature of the ground, they re∣solued to stay there. Yet hauing consulted with their Idoll vpon this point, and finding him vn∣willing, they demanded license to leaue some of their men to people so good a Land, the which he granted, teaching them the meanes how to doe it, which was, that when the Men and Wo∣men should be entred into a goodly Lake called Pascuaro, to bathe themselues, those which re∣mayned [ 60] on Land,* 6.230 should steale away all their clothes, and then secretly raise their Campe, and depart without any bruit, the which was effected, and the rest which dreamt not of this deceit (for the pleasure they tooke in bathing) comming forth and finding themselues spoyled of their

garments, and thus mocked and left by their Companions, they remayned discontented and vexed therewith: so as to make shew of the hatred they had conceiued against them, they say that they changed their manner of life and their language. At the least it is most certaine, that the Mechouacans haue beene alwayes enemies to the Mexicans, and therefore they came to con∣gratulate the Marquesse De Valle, after his victorie obtayned when he had conquered Mexico.

From Mechouacan to Mexico, are aboue fiftie leagues, and vpon the way is Malinalco,* 6.231 where it happened, that complayning to their Idoll of a woman that was a notable witch, which came in their company carrying the name of their sister to their god, for that with her wicked artes shee did them much harme, pretending by certaine meanes to bee worshipped of them as their goddesse: the Idoll spake in a dreame to one of those old men that carried the Arke, commanding [ 10] him to comfort the people, making them new and great promises, and that they should leaue this his sister with her family, being cruell and bad, raysing their Campe at mid-night in great si∣lence, leauing no shew what way they passed. So they did, and the Witch remayning alone with her family in this sort, peopled a Towne which they call Malinalco, the Inhabitants whereof,* 6.232 are held for great Sorcerers, being issued from such a mother. The Mexicans for that they were greatly diminished by these diuisions, and by the number of sicke and wearied persons, which they had left behinde, meant to repayre themselues, and to stay in a place called Tula, which signifies a place of Reedes. There their Idoll commanded them to stop a great Riuer, that it might couer a great Playne, and by the meanes he taught them, they did inuiron a little Hill called Coatepec, making a great Lake, the which they did plant round about with Willowes, Elmes, [ 20] Sapines, and other Trees. There began to breede much fish, and many birds came thither: so as it became a very pleasant place. The situation of this place, seeming pleasant vnto them, and being wearied with trauell, many talked of peopling there, and to passe no farther: wherewith the Deuill was much displeased, threatning the Priests with death, commanding them to re∣turne the Riuer to her course, saying,* 6.233 that hee would that night chastise those which had beene disobedient as they had deserued. And as to doe ill is proper to the Deuill, and that the diuine Iustice doth often suffer such to be deliuered into the hands of such a Tormentor, that choose him for their god; It chanced that about mid-night they heard a great noyse in one part of the Campe, and in the morning going thither, they found those dead that had talked of staying [ 30] there. The manner of their death, was, that their stomacks were opened, and their hearts pul∣led out. And by that meanes, this good god taught these poore miserable Creatures, the kindes of sacrifices that pleased him, which was, in opening the stomacke, to pull out the heart, as they haue since practised in their horrible sacrifices. Seeing this punishment, and that the Playne was dryed, the Lake being emptied, they asked counsell of their god what to doe, who commanded them to passe on, the which they did by little and little, vntill they came to Chapultepec,* 6.234 a league from Mexico, famous for the pleasantnesse thereof. They did fortifie themselues in these Moun∣taines, fearing the Nations which inhabited that Country, the which were opposite vnto them, especially for that one named Copil, sonne to this Sorceresse, left in Malinalco, had blamed and spoken ill of the Mexicans: for this Copil by the commandement of his mother, awhile after [ 40] followed the Mexicans course, labouring to incense the Tapanecas, and other neighbours against them, euen vnto the Chalcas: so as they came with a strong Armie to destroy the Mexicans. Co∣pil in the meane space stood vpon a little Hill in the middest of a Lake, called Acopilco, atten∣ding the destruction of his Enemies, and they by the aduice of their Idoll, went against him, tooke him suddenly, and slue him, carrying his heart to their god,* 6.235 who commanded them to cast it into the Lake, fayning that thereof did grow a plant called Tunal, where since Mexico was built. They came to fight with the Chalcas, and other Nations, hauing chosen for their Captaine, a valiant man, called Vitzilonilti, who in an encounter, was taken and slaine by the Enemies. But for all this, they were not discouraged, but fought valiantly; and in despight of their Ene∣mies they brake the squadrons, and carrying their Aged, their Women, and young Children in the midst of their battaile, they passed on to Atlacuyauaya, a Towne of the Culhuans,* 6.236 whom they [ 50] found solemnising of a Feast, in which place they fortified. The Chalcas, nor the other Nations did not follow them, but grieued to be defeated by so small a number of men; they being in so great multitudes retyred to their Townes.

The Mexicans, by the aduice of their Idoll, sent their Messengers to the Lord of Culhuacan,* 6.237 to demand a place to dwell in, who after hee had imparted it to his people, granted them the place of Ticaapan, which signifies white waters, to the end they should all perish there, being full of Vipers, Snakes, and other venemous beasts which bred in a Hill neere adioyning. But being perswaded and taught by their Deuill, they accepted willingly what was offered, and by their deuillish arte, tamed these beasts, so as they did them no harme; yea, they vsed them as meate, [ 60] eating them with delight and appetite. The which the Lord of Culhuacan seeing, and that they had tilled and sowed the Land, he resolued to receiue them into the Citie, and to contract ami∣tie with them. But the god whom the Mexicans did worship (as he is accustomed to do no good, but ill) said vnto his Priests, that this was not the place where hee would haue them stay, and that they must go forth making warres. Therefore they must seeke forth a Woman, and name her

the Goddesse of Discord.* 6.238 Whereupon they resolued to send to the King of Culhuacan, to demand his daughter to be Queene of the Mexicans, and mother to their god, who receiued this ambassage willingly, sending his daughter presently gorgeously attired and well accompanied. The same night shee arriued, by order of the murtherer whom they worshipped, they killed her cruelly; and hauing ••layed her artificially as they could doe, they did clothe a young man with her skin, and thereupon her apparell, placing him neere their Idoll, dedicating him for a Goddesse and the mother of their god, and euer after did worship it, making an Idoll which they called Toccy, which is to say,* 6.239 our grand mother. Not content with this crueltie, they did maliciously inuite the King of Culhuacan, the father of the young Maid, to come and worship his daughter, who was now consecrated a goddesse, who comming with great Presents, and well accompanied with his peo∣ple, he was led into a very darke Chappell where their Idoll was, that he might offer sacrifice to [ 10] his daughter that was in that place. But it chanced that the Incense that was vpon the harth, according to their custome, kindled in such sort, as he might discerne his daughters haire, and ha∣uing by this meanes discouered the crueltie and deceit, he went forth crying aloud, and with all his men he fell vpon the Mexicans, forcing them to retyre to the Lake, so as they were almost drowned. The Mexicans defended themselues, casting certaine little darts, which they vsed in the warres, wherewith they much galled their enemies. But in the end they got Land, and lea∣uing that place, they coasted along the Lake, very weary and wet; the Women and little Chil∣dren crying and making great exclamations against them and their god that had brought them into this distresse. They were inforced to passe a Riuer that could not bee waded thorow, and [ 20] therefore they aduised to make small Boates of their Targets and of Reedes, wherein they passed. Then afterwards, hauing left Culhuacan, they arriued at Iztacalco, and finally to the place where the Hermitage of Saint Anthony now is, at the entrie of Mexico, and to that quarter which they now call Saint Paul. During which time their Idoll did comfort them in their trauels, and in∣couraged them, promising great matters.

* 6.240The time being now come, that the Father of lyes should accomplish his promise made to his people, who could no longer suffer so many turnings, trauels, and dangers, it happened that some old Priests or Sorcerers, being entred into a place full of water-lillies, they met with a very faire and cleere current of water, which seemed to be siluer, and looking about, they found the Trees, Meadowes, Fish, and all that they beheld to be very white: wondering hereat, they remembred [ 30] a prophesie of their god, whereby he had giuen them that for a token of their place of rest, and to make them Lords of other Nations. Then weeping for ioy, they returned to the people with these good newes. The night following, Vitzliputzli appeared in a dreame to an ancient Priest, saying, that they should seeke out a Tunal in the Lake, which grew out of a stone (which as hee told them, was the same place where by his commandement they had cast the heart of Copil, sonne to the Sorceresse their enemie) and vpon this Tunal they should see a goodly Eagle, which fed on certaine small birds. When they should see this, they should beleeue it was the place where their Citie should be built, the which should surmount all others, and be famous through∣out the World. Morning being come, the old man assembled the whole people, from the grea∣test to the least, making a long speech vnto them, how much they were bound vnto their god; [ 40] and of the reuelation, which (although vnworthy) he had receiued that night, concluding that all must seeke out that happy place which was promised them; which bred such deuotion and ioy in them all, that presently they vndertooke the enterprise, and diuiding themselues into Bands, they began to search, following the signes of the reuelation of the desired place. Amid∣dest the thickest of these water-lillies in the Lake, they met with the same course of water they had seene the day before, but much differing, being not white, but red, like bloud, the which di∣uided it selfe into two streames, whereof the one was of a very obscure azure, the which bred ad∣miration in them, noting some great mysterie, as they said. After much search here and there, the Tunal appeared growing on a stone, whereon was a Royall Eagle, with the wings display∣ed towards the Sunne, receiuing his heat. About this Eagle were many rich feathers, white, red, [ 50] yellow,* 6.241 blue, and greene, of the same sort as they make their Images, which Eagle held in his tallants a goodly bird. Those which saw it and knew it to bee the place foretold by the Oracle, fell on their knees, doing great worship to the Eagle, which bowed the head looking on euery side. Then was there great cryes, demonstrations, and thankes vnto the Creator, and to their great god Vitzliputzli, who was their father, and had alwayes told them truth. For this reason they called the Citie which they founded ••here,* 6.242 Tenoxtiltan, which signifies Tunal on a stone, and to this day they carry in their Armes, an Eagle vpon a Tunal, with a bird in his tallant, and standing with the other vpon the Tunal. The day following, by common consent they made an Hermitage adioyning to the Tunal of the Eagle,* 6.243 that the Arke of their god might rest there, till they might haue meanes to build him a sumptuous Temple: and so they made this Hermi∣tage of Flagges and Turfes couered with straw. Then hauing consulted with their god, they re∣solued [ 60] to buy of their Neighbours, Stone, Timber, Lime, in exchange of Fish, Frogs, and young Kids, and for Ducks, Water-hens, Courlieus, and diuers other kindes of Sea fowles. All which things they did fish and hunt for in this Lake, whereof there is great abundance. They went

with these things to the Markets of the Townes and Cities of the Tapanecans, and of them of Tescuco their neighbours▪ and with policy they gathered together by little and little; what was necessarie for the building of their Citie:* 6.244 so as they built a better Chappell for their Idoll of lime and stone, and laboured to fill vp a great part of the Lake with rubbish. This done, the Idoll spake one night to one of his Priests, in these termes; Say vnto the Mexicans,* 6.245 that the Noble∣men diuide themselues euery one with their Kinsfolks and Friends, and that they diuide themselues into foure principall quarters, about the house which you haue built for my rest, and let euery quarter build in his quarter at his pleasure. The which was put in execution: and those be the foure principall quarters of Mexico, which are called at this day Saint Iean, Saint Mary the round, Saint Paul, [ 10] and Saint Sebastian. After this, the Mexicans being thus diuided into these foure quarters, their god commanded them to diuide amongst them the gods he should name to them, and that they should giue notice to euery quarter, principall of the other foure particall quarters, where their gods should bee worshipped. So as vnder euery one of these foure principall quarters, there vvere many lesse comprehended, according to the number of the Idols which their god commanded them to worship, which they called Calpultetco, which is as much to say, as God of the quarters. In this manner the Citie of Mexico Tenoxtiltan was founded,* 6.246 and grew great.

This diuision being made as aforesaid, some old Men and Ancients held opinion,* 6.247 that in the diuision, they had not respected them as they deserued: for this cause, they and their [ 20] Kinsfolke did mutinie, and went to seeke another residence: and as they went through the Lake, they found a small piece of Ground or Terrasse, which they call Tloteloli, where they inhabited, calling it Tlatellulco, which signifies Place of a Terrasse. This was the third diuision of the Mexicans, since they left their Country. That of Mechonacan being the first, and that of Malinalco the second. Those which separated themselues and went to Tlatellulco, were fa∣mous men, but of bad disposition: and therefore they practised against the Mexicans their neighbours, all the ill neighbourhood they could. They had alwayes quarrels against them, and to this day continues their hatred and old leagues. They of Tenoxtiltan, seeing them of Tlatellulco thus opposite vnto them, and that they multiplyed, feared that in time they might surmount them: hereupon they assembled in counsell, where they thought it good to choose a [ 30] King, whom they should obey, and strike terrour into their Enemies, that by this meanes they should bee more vnited and stronger among themselues, and their Enemies not presume too much against them. Being thus resolued to choose a King, they tooke another aduice very profitable and assured, to choose none among themselues, for the auoyding of dissentions, and to gayne (by their new King) some other neighbour Nations, by whom they were inuiro∣ned, being destitute of all succours. All well considered, both to pacifie the King of Culhua∣can, whom they had greatly offended, hauing slaine and slayed the daughter of his predecessor, and done him so great a scorne, as also to haue a King of the Mexican blood, of which genera∣tion there were many in Culhuacan, which continued there since the time they liued in peace amongst them; they resolued to choose for their King, a young man called Acamapixtli,* 6.248 [ 40] sonne to a great Mexican Prince, and of a Lady; daughter to the King of Calhuacan. Pre∣sently they sent Ambassadors with a great Present to demand this man, who deliuered their Ambassage in these termes; Great Lord, wee your Vassals and Seruants▪ placed and shut vp in the Weedes and Reedes of the Lake, alone, and abandoned of an the Nations of the World, led one∣ly and guided by our god to the place where wee are, which falls in the iurisdiction of your limits of Ascapusalco, and of Tescuco: Although you haue suffered vs to liue and remayne there, yet will wee not, neither is it reason to liue without a Head and Lord to command, correct, and gouerne vs, instructing vs in the course of our life, and defending vs from our Enemies: Therefore wee come to you, knowing that in your Court and House, there are Children of our generation, linckt and allied with yours, issued from our entrailes, and yours, of our bloud and yours, among the which wee haue [ 50] knowledge of a Grand-child of yours and ours, called Acamapixth. Wee beseech you therefore, to giue him vs for Lord, wee will esteeme him as hee deserues, seeing hee is of the Linage of the Lords of Mexico, and the Kings of Culhuacan.

The King hauing consulted vpon this point, and finding it nothing inconuenient to bee al∣lied to the Mexicans, who were valiant men, made them answere, That they should take his grand-child in good time, adding thereunto, that if he had beene a woman, hee would not haue giuen her, noting the foule fact before spoken of, ending his discourse with these wordes, Let my grand-child goe to serue your god, and be his Lieutenant, to rule and gouerne his Creatures, by whom we liue, who is the Lord of Night, Day, and Windes: Let him goe and be Lord of the Water and Land, and possesse the Mexican Nation, take him in good time, and vse him as my sonne and grand-child. [ 60] The Mexicans gaue him thankes, all ioyntly desiring him to marry him with his owne hand, so as hee gaue him to wife, one of the noblest Ladies amongst them. They conducted the new King and Queene with all honor possible, and made him a solemne reception, going all in generall forth to see the King, whom they led into Palaces which were then, but meane, and hauing seated them in Royall Thrones, presently one of the Ancients and an Orator

much esteemed amongst them, did rise vp, speaking in this manner, My sonne, our Lord and King, thou art welcome to this poore House and Citie, amongst these weeds and mud, where thy poore fa∣thers, Grand-fathers, and Kinsfolks, endure what it pleaseth the Lord of things created. Remember Lord thou commest hither to be the defence and support of the Mexican Nation, and to be the resem∣blance of our god Vitzliputzli, whereupon the charge and gouernment is giuen thee. Thou knowest wee are not is our Country, seeing the Land we possesse at this day is anothers, neither know we what shall be∣come of vs to morrow, or another day: Consider therefore▪ that thou commest not to rest or recreate thy selfe, but rather to indure a new charge vnder so heauy a burden: wherein thou must continually labour, being slaue to this multitude, which is fallen to thy lot, and to all this neighbour people, whom thou must striue to gratifie, and giue them contentment, seeing thou knowest we liue vpon their Lands, and within their limits. And ending, he repeated these wordes; Thou art welcome, Thou and the Queene our [ 10] Mistris, to this your Realme. This was the speech of the old man, which with other Orations (which the Mexican Histories doe celebrate) the Children did vse to learne by heart,* 6.249 and so they were kept by Tradition, some of them deserue well to bee reported in their proper termes. The King answering, thanked them, and offered them his care and diligence in their defence and aide in all he could. After they gaue him the Oath, and after their manner set the Royall Crowne vpon his head,* 6.250 the which is like to the Crowne of the Dukes of Venice: the name of Acama∣pixtli their first King, signifies a handfull of Reedes, and therefore they carry in their Armouries a hand holding many arrowes of Reedes.

* 6.251The Mexicans hapned so well in the election of their new King, that in short time they grew to haue some forme of a Commonweale, and to bee famous among strangers; whereupon their [ 20] neighbours mooued with feare, practised to subdue them, especially the Tapanecans, who had Az∣capuzalco for their Metropolitane Citie, to whom the Mexicans payed tribute, as strangers dwel∣ling in their Land. For the King of Azcapuzalco fearing their power which increased, sought to oppresse the Mexicans, and hauing consulted with his subiects, he sent to tell King Acamapixili, that the ordinarie tribute they payed was too little, and that from thenceforth they should bring Firre trees, Sapines, and Willowes for the building of the Citie; and moreouer, they should make him a Garden in the water,* 6.252 planted with diuers kindes of Herbes and Pulses, which they should bring vnto him yeerly by water, dressed in this manner, without fayling; which if they did not, he declared them his enemies, and would roote them out. The Mexicans were much troubled at this commandement, holding it impossible: and that this demand was to no other end, but to [ 30] seeke occasion to ruine them. But their god Vitzliputzli comforted them, appearing that night to an old man, cōmanding him to say to the King his sonne in his name, that he should make no dif∣ficultie to accept of this tribute, he would helpe them and make the meanes easie, which after happened: for the time of tribute being come, the Mexicans carried the Trees that were requi∣red, and moreouer, a Garden made and floating in the water, and in it much Mays (which is their Corne) alreadie grayned and in the eare: there was also Indian Pepper, Beetes, Tomates, which is a great sappy and sauourie graine, French Pease, Figs, Gourds, and many other things, all ripe, and in their season. Such as haue not seene the Gardens in the Lake of Mexico, in the middest of the water, will not beleeue it, but will say it is an inchantment of the Deuill whom they wor∣ship:* 6.253 But in truth it is a matter to bee done, and there hath beene often seene of these Gardens [ 40] floating in the water; for they cast earth vpon Reeds and Grasse, in such sort as it neuer wastes in the water; they sow and plant this ground, so as the graine growes and ripens very well, and then they remoue it from place to place. But it is true, that to make this great Garden easily, and to haue the fruits grow well, is a thing that makes men iudge there was the worke of Vitzliputz∣li, whom otherwise they call Patellas, specially hauing neuer made nor seene the like. The King of Azcapuzalco wondred much when he saw that accomplished which he held impossible, saying vnto his subiects, that this people had a great god that made all easie vnto them, and he said vn∣to the Mexicans, that seeing their god gaue them all things perfect, he would the yeere follow∣ing,* 6.254 at the time of tribute, they should bring in their Garden a wilde Ducke, and a Heron, sitting on their egges, in such sort, that they should hatch their young ones as they should arriue, without [ 50] fayling of a minute, vpon paine of his indignation. The Mexicans were much troubled and hea∣uie with this proud and strict command: but their god, as he was accustomed, comforted them in the night, by one of his Priests, saying, that he would take all that charge vpon him, willing them not to feare, but beleeue that the day would come, when as the Azcapuzalcos should pay with their liues this desire of new Tributes. The time being come, as the Mexicans carried all that was demanded of their Gardens, among the Reedes and Weedes of the Garden, they found a Ducke and a Heron hatching their egges, and at the same instant when they arriued at Azca∣puzalco their young ones were disclosed. Whereat the King of Azcapuzalco wondring beyond measure, hee said againe to his people, that these were more then humane things, and that the Mexicans began as if they would make themselues Lords ouer all those Prouinces. Yet did hee [ 60] not diminish the order of this tribute, and the Mexicans finding not themselues mightie enough, endured this subiection and slauerie the space of fiftie yeeres. In this time the King Acamapixtli died,* 6.255 hauing beautified the Citie of Mexico with many goodly buildings, streets, Conduits of

water, and great abundance of munition. He raigned in peace and rest fortie yeeres, hauing beene alwayes zealous for the good and increase of the Commonweale.

As he drew neere his end, he did one memorable thing, that hauing lawfull children to whom he might leaue the succession of the Realme, yet would he not doe it, but contrariwise hee spake freely to the Common-weale, that as they had made a free Election of him, so they should choose him that should seeme fittest for their good Gouernment, aduising them therein to haue a care to the good of the Common-weale, and seeming grieued that he left them not freed from Tribute and subiection, he dyed, hauing recommended his wife and children vnto them, he left all his people sorrowfull for his death.

[ 10]

§. II. Of the second King VITZILOVITLI; and of his Successours and their Acts vntill the Reigne of MOTEZVMA their last King.

THe Obsequies of the dead King performed, the Ancients, the chiefe of the Realme, and some part of the people assembled together, to choose a King, where the Ancients [ 20] propounded the necessitie wherein they were, and that it was m••••dfull to choose for chiefe of their Citie, a man that had pitie of age, of Widdowes, and Orphans, and to be a Fa∣ther of the Common-weale: for in very deed they should be the feathers of his wings, the eye-browes of his eyes, and the beard of his face, that it was necessary hee were valiant, being needfull shortly to vse their forces, as their God had prophesied. Their resolution in the end was to choose a sonne of the Predecessor, vsing the like good office in accepting his sonne for Successor, as hee had done to the Common-weale, relying thereon.

This young man was called Vitz••louitli, which signifieth a rich feather.* 6.256 They set the Royall Crowne vpon his head, and anointed him, as they haue beene accustomed to do to all their Kings, with an Ointment they call Di••me, being the same vnction wherewith they did anoint their [ 30] Idoll. Presently an Orator made an eloquent speech, exhorting him to arme himselfe with cou∣rage, and free them from the trauels, slauerie and miserie they suffered, being oppressed by the Azca∣puzalcos: which done, all did him homage. This King was not married, and his Counsell held opinion, that it was good to marry him with the Daughter of the King of Azcapuzalco, to haue him a friend by this alliance, and to obtaine some diminution of their heauie burthen of Tributes imposed vpon them, and yet they feared lest he should disdaine to giue them his Daughter, by reason they were his Vassals: yet the King of Azcapuzalco yeelded thereunto, hauing humbly required him, who with courteous words gaue them his Daughter, called Ay••nchiguall, whom they led with great pompe and ioy to Mexico, and performed the Ceremonie and Solemnitie of [ 40] Marriage, which was to tie a corner of the mans Cloake to a part of the womans Veile, in signe of the band of Marriage. This Queene brought forth a sonne, of whose name they demanded aduice of the King of Azcapuzalco,* 6.257 and casting Lots as they had accustomed (being greatly giuen to Southsayings, especially vpon the names of their children) hee would haue his Grand-childe called Chimalpopoca, which signifies A Target casting smoke. The Queene his Daughter seeing the contentment the King of Azcupazalco had of his Grand-childe, tooke occasion to intreate him to relieue the Mexicans, of the heauie burthen of their Tributes, seeing hee had now a Grand-childe Mexican, the which the King willingly yeelded vnto, by the aduice of his Counsell, granting (for the Tribute which they paid) to bring yeerely a couple of Duckes and some fish, in signe of subiection, and that they dwelt in his Land. The Mexicans by this meanes remained much eased and content, but it lasted little. For the Queene their Protectrix died soone after: [ 50] and the yeere following likewise V••tzilouitli the King of Mexico died,* 6.258 leauing his sonne Chi∣malpop••ca tenne yeeres old; he reigned thirteene yeeres, and died thirtie yeeres old, or little more. He was held for a good King, and carefull in the seruice of his Gods, whose Images hee held Kings to be; and that the honour done to their God, was done to the King who was his I∣mage. For this cause the Kings haue been so affectionate to the seruice of their Gods. This King was carefull to winne the loue of his neighbours, and to trafficke with them, whereby hee aug∣mented his Citie, exercising his men in Warrelike actions in the Lake, disposing them to that which he pretended, as you shall see presently.

The Mexicans for successor to their deceased King did choose his sonne Chimalpopoca,* 6.259 by com∣mon consent, although he were a child of ten yeeres old, being of opinion that it was alwayes [ 60] necessary to keepe the fauour of the King of Azcapuzalco, making his Grand-childe King. They then set him in his Throne, giuing him the Ensignes of warre, with a Bow and Arrowes in one hand, and a Sword with Rasors (which they commonly vse) in the right, signifying thereby

(as they doe say) that they pretended by Armes to fed them selues at libertie. The Mexicans had great want of water, that of the Lake being very thicke and muddie, and therefore ill to drinke, so as they caused their infant King to desire of his Grand-father the King of Azcapuzalco, the water of the Mountaine of Chapultep••c, which is from Mexico a league, as is said before, which they easily obtained, and by their industrie made an Aquaduct of faggoes, weeds and flagges by the which they brought water to their Citie. But because the City was built within the Lake, and the Aquaduct did crosse it, it did breake forth in many places, so as they could not enioy the water, as they desired, and had great scarcitie: whereupon, whether they did expresly seeke it, to quarrel with the Tapanecans, or that they were moued vpon small occasion, in the end they sent a resolute Ambassage to the King Azcapuzalco, saying, they could not vse the water which he had graciously granted them, and there••ore they required him to prouide them wood, lime, [ 10] and stone, and to send his Workmen, that by their meanes they might make a Pipe of stone and lime that should not breake. This message nothing pleased the King, and much lesse his subiects, seeming to be too presumptuous a message, and purposely insolent, for Vassals to their Lord. The chiefe of the Counsell disdayning thereat, said It was too bold, that not content with permission to liue in anothers Land,* 6.260 and to haue water giuen them, but they would haue them goe to serue them: what a matter was that? And whereon presumed this fugitiue Nation, shut vp in the mud? They would let them know, how fit they were to worke, and to abate their pride, in taking from them their Land and their liues.

In these tearmes and choller they left the King, whom they did somewhat suspect, by reason of his Grand-childe, and consulted againe anew, what they were to doe, where they resolued [ 20] and make a generall Proclamation, that no Tapanecan should haue any commerce or traffique with any Mexican, that they should not goe to their Citie, nor receiue any into theirs, vpon paine of death. Whereby we may vnderstand that the King did not absolutely command ouer his peo∣ple, and that hee gouerned more like a Consull, or a Duke, then a King; although since with their power, the command of Kings increased, growing absolute Tyrants, as you shall see in the last Kings.

The King of Azcapuzalco seeing the resolution of his subiects, which was to kill the Mexi∣cans, intreated them first to steale away the young King his Grand-childe, and afterwards doe what they pleased to the Mexicans. All in a manner yeelded hereunto, to giue the King con∣tentment, [ 30] and for pittie they had of the childe; but two of the chiefest were much opposite, in∣ferring, that it was bad counsell, for that Chimalpopoca, although hee were of their bloud, yet was it but by the Mothers side, and that the Fathers was to be preferred, and therefore they con∣cluded that the first they must kill was Chimalpopoca King of Mexico, protesting so to doe. The King of Azcapuzalco was so troubled with this contradiction, and the resolution they had ta∣ken, that soone after for very griefe he fell sicke, and dyed. By whose death the Tapanecans fi∣nishing their consultation, committed a notable Treason: for one night the young King of Mexi∣co sleeping without guard,* 6.261 or feare of any thing, they of Azcapuzalco entred his Palace, and slue him suddenly, returning vnseene. The morning being come, when the Nobles went to salute the King, as they were accustomed, they found him slaine with great and cruell wounds; then they cryed out and filled all their Citie with teares: and transported with choller, they present∣ly [ 40] fell to Armes, with an intent to reuenge their Kings death. As they ranne vp and downe full of furie and disorder, one of their chiefest Knights stept forth, labouring to appease them, with a graue admonition: Whither goe yee (said he) O yee Mexicans? quiet your selues, consider that things done without consideration are not well guided, nor come to good end: suppresse your griefe, consi∣dering that although your King be dead, the Noble▪bloud of the Mexicans is not extinct in him. Wee haue children of our Kings deceased, by whose conduct, succeeding to the Realme, you shall the better execute what you pretend, hauing a Leader to guide your enterprise: goe not blindly, surcease, and choose a King first, to guide and encourage you against your enemies: In the meane time dissemble discreetly, p••rforming the Funerals of your deceased King, whose bodie you set heere present, for [ 50] hereafter you shall find better meanes to take reuenge. By this meanes the Mexicans passed no farther, but stayed to make the Obsequies of their King, whereunto they inuited the Lords of Tescuco, and Culhuacan, reporting vnto them this foule and cruell fact, which the Tapanecans had committed, moouing them to haue pittie on them, and incensing them against their enemies, concluding that their resolution was to die, or to bee reuenged of so great an indignitie, intrea∣ting them not to fauour so vnjust a fact of their enemies; and that for their part, they desired not their aide of armes or men, but onely to be lookers on of what should passe, and that for their maintenance, they would not stop nor hinder the commerce, as the Tapanecans had done. At these speeches they of Tescuco and Culhuacan made them great shewes of good will, and that they were well satisfied, offering them their Cities, and all the Commerce they desired, that they desired, that they might prouide victuall and Munition at their pleasure, both by land and [ 60] water. After this, the Mexicans intreated them to stay with them, and assist at the election of their King; the which they likewise granted, to giue them contentment.

The Electors being assembled, an old man that was held for a great Orator, rose vp, who (as the Histories report) spake in this manner, The light of your eyes, O Mexicans, is darkened,* 6.262 but not of your hearts: for although you haue lost him that was the light and guide of the Mexican Common-weale, yet that of the heart remaines: to consider, that although they haue slaine one man, yet there are others that may supply with aduantage, the want we haue of him: the Mexican Nobilitie is not extin∣guished thereby, nor the bloud Royall decayed. Turne your eyes and looke about you, you shall see the Nobilitie of Mexico set in order, not one or two, but many and excellent Princes, Sons to Acamapixtli, our true and lawfull King and Lord. Here you may choose at your pleasure, saying, I will this man, and not that. If you haue lost a Father, heere you may find both Father and Mother: make account O Mexicans, that the Sunne is eclipsed and darkened for a time, and will returne suddenly. If Mexico [ 10] hath beene darkened by the death of your King, the Sunne will soone shew, in choosing another King. Looke to whom, and vpon whom you shall cast your eyes, and towards whom your heart is inclined, and this is he whom your God Vitzliputzli hath chosen. And continuing awhile this discourse, he ended to the satisfaction of all men. In the end, by the consent of this Counsell, Izcoalt was chosen King, which signifies a Snake of Rasors, who was Sonne to the first King Acamapixtli, by a slaue of his: and although he were not legitimate, yet they made choice of him, for that hee excee∣ded the rest in behauiour, valour, and magnanimitie of courage. All seemed very well satisfied, and aboue all, these of Tescuco, for their King was married to a sister of Iscoalts. After the King had beene crowned and set in his Royall Seat, another Orator stept vp, discoursing how the King was bound to his Common-weale, and of the courage he ought to shew in trauell, speaking [ 20] thus, Behold this day we depend on thee, it may be thou wilt let fall the burthen that lies vpon thy Soul∣diers, and suffer the old man and woman, the Orphlin and the widdow to perish. Take pittie of the In∣fants that goe creeping in the Ayre, who must perish if our enemies surmount vs: vnfold then, and stretch forth thy Cloake, my Lord, to beare these Infants vpon thy shoulders, which bee the poore and the common people, who liue assured vnder the shadow of thy wings, and of thy bountie. Vttering many other words vpon this subiect, the which, (as I haue said) they learne by heart, for the exercise of their children, and after did teach them as a Lesson to those that began to learne the facultie of Orators.

In the meane time, the Tapanecans were resolute to destroy the Mexicans, and to this end [ 30] they had made great preparations. And therefore the new King tooke counsell for the procla∣ming of Warre, and to fight with those that had so much wronged them. But the common people, seeing their Aduersaries to exceed them farre in numbers and munition for the warre, they came amazed to their King, pressing him not to vndertake so dangerous a warre, which would destroy their poore Citie and Nation: whereupon being demanded what aduice were fit∣test to take, they made answere, that the King of Azcapuzalco was very pittifull, that they should demand peace, and offer to serue him, drawing the••r forth those Marshes, and that hee should giue them houses and lands among his subjects, that by this meanes they might depend all vpon one Lord. And for the obtaining hereof, they should carrie their God in his Litter for an Intercessor. The cries of the people were of such force (hauing some Nobles that approoued [ 40] their opinion) as presently they called for the Priests, preparing the Litter and their God, to performe the Voyage. As this was preparing, and euery one yeelded to this treatie of peace, and to subject themselues to the Tapanecans, a gallant young man, and of good sort, stept out a∣mong the people, who with a resolute countenance spake thus vnto them, What meanes this O yee Mexicans, are yee mad? How hath so great cowardise crept in among vs? Shall wee goe and yeeld our selues thus to the Azcapuzalcans? Then turning to the King he said, How now my Lord, will you endure this? Speake to the people, that they may suffer vs to find out some meanes for our honour and defence, and not yeeld our selues so simply and shamefully into the hands of our enemies. This young man was called Tlacaellec, Nephew to the King,* 6.263 he was the most valiant Captaine and greatest Counsellor that euer the Mexicans had, as you shall see hereafter. Izcoalt encouraged by that his Nephew had so wisely spoken, retained the people, saying they should first suffer him to try [ 50] another better meanes. Then turning towards his Nobilitie, he said vnto them, You are all heere my Kinsmen, and the best of Mexico, he that hath the courage to carrie a message to the Tapanecans, let him rise vp. They looked one vpon another, but no man stirred nor offered himselfe to the word. Then this young man Tlacaellec rising, offered himselfe to goe, saying, that seeing hee must die, it did import little whether it were to day or to morrow: for what reason should hee so carefully preserue himselfe? he was therefore readie, let him command what he pleased. And although all held this for a rash attempt, yet the King resolued to send him, that he might there∣on vnderstand the will and disposition of the King of Azcapuzalco and of his people; holding it better to hasten his Nephewes death, then to hazard the honour of his Common-weale. Tla∣caellec [ 60] being readie, tooke his way, and being come to the Guards, who had commandement to kill any Mexicans that came towards them, by cunning or otherwise: hee perswaded them to suffer him to passe to the King, who wondred to see him, and hearing his Ambassage, which was to demand peace of him vnder honest conditions, answered, that he would impart it to his sub∣jects, willing him to returne the next day for his answere. Then Tlacaellec demanded a

pasport, yet could he not obtaine any, but that he should vse his best skill: with this he re∣turned to Mexico, giuing his words to the guards to returne. And although the King of Az∣capuzalco desired peace, being of a milde disposition, yet his Subiects did so incense him, as his answer was open warre. The which being heard by the Messenger, he did all his King com∣manded him, declaring by this ceremony, to giue armes, and annointing the King with the vnction of the dead, that in his Kings behalfe he did defie him. Hauing ended all, the King of Azcapuzalco suffering himselfe to be anointed and crowned with Feathers, giuing goodly armes in recompence to the Messenger,* 6.264 wishing him not to returne by the Pallace gate, whereas ma∣ny attended to cut him in peeces, but to goe out secretly by a little false Posterne that was o∣pen in one of the Courts of the Pallace. This yong man did so, and turning by secret waies, got [ 10] away in safetie in sight of the Guards, and there defied them, saying, Tapanecans and Azcapu∣zalcans, you doe your office ill, vnderstand you shall all dye, and not one Tapanecan shall remaine aliue. In the meane time the Guards fell vpon him, where he behaued himselfe so valiantly, that he slew some of them: and seeing many more of them come running, he retired himselfe gallant∣ly to the Citie, where he brought newes, that warre was proclaimed with the Tapanecans, and that he had defied their King.

The defie being knowne to the Commons of Mexico, they came to the King, according to their accustomed cowardise,* 6.265 demanding leaue to depart the Citie, holding their ruine certaine. The King did comfort and incourage them, promising to giue them libertie if they vanquished their enemies, willing them not to feare. The people replied. And if we be vanquished, what shall wee doe? If wee be ouercome, (answered the King) we will be bound presently to yeelde our selues into [ 20] your hands to suffer death, eate our flesh in your dishes and be reuenged of vs. It shall be so then (say they) if you loose the victorie, and if you obtaine the victorie, we doe presently offer our selues to be your Tributaries, to labour in your houses, to sowe your ground, to carrie your armes and baggage when you goe to the warres for euer, wee and our descendants after vs. These accords made betwixt the People and the Nobilitie (which they did after fully performe, either willingly or by con∣straint, as they had promised) the King named for his Captaine Generall Tlacaellec: the whole Campe was put in order, and into squadrons, giuing the places of Captaines to the most valiant of his kinsfolkes and friends: then did he make them a goodly speech, whereby he did greatly incourage them, being now well prepared, charging all men to obey the commandement of [ 30] the Generall whom he had appointed: he diuided his men into two parts, commanding the most valiant and hardie, to giue the first charge with him, and that all the rest should remaine with the King Izcoalt, vntill they should see the first assaile their enemies. Marching then in order, they were discouered by them of Azcapuzalco, who presently came furiously forth the Citie, carrying great riches of Gold, Siluer, and Armes of great value, as those which had the Empire of all that Countrie. Izcoalt gaue the signall to battaile, with a little Drumme he car∣ried on his shoulders,* 6.266 and presently they raised a generall showt, crying, Mexico, Mexico, they charged the Tapanecans, and although they were farre more in number, yet did they defeate them, and force them to retire into their Citie, then aduanced they which remained behinde, crying Tlacaellec, Victorie, Victorie, all sodainly entred the Citie, where (by the Kings commande∣ment) [ 40] they pardoned not any man, no not old men, women, nor children, for they slew them all, and spoiled the Citie being very rich.* 6.267 And not content herewith, they followed them that fled, and were retired into the craggie rockes of the Sierres or neere Mountaines, striking and ma∣king a great slaughter of them. The Tapanecans being retired to a Mountaine east downe their Armes, demanding their liues, and offering to serue the Mexicans, to giue them Lands and Gardens, Stone, Lime and Timber, and to hold them alwayes for their Lords. Vpon this con∣dition Tlacaellec retired his men and ceased the battaile, granting them their liues vpon the for∣mer conditions, which they did solemnely sweare. Then they returned to Azcapuzalco, and so with their rich and victorious spoiles to the Citie of Mexico. The day following the King as∣sembled the Nobilitie and the People, to whom hee laid open the accord the Commons had [ 50] made, demanding of them, if they were content to persist therein: the Commons made answer, that they had promised, and they had well deserued it, and therefore they were content to serue them perpetually. Whereupon they tooke an oath, which since they haue kept without contradiction.

This done, Izcoalt returned to Azcapuzalco (by the aduice of his Counsell) he diuided all the Lands and Goods of the conquered among the conquerours, the chiefest part fell to the King, then to Tlacaellec, and after to the rest of the Nobles, as they best deserued in the Battaile. They also gaue Land to some Plebeans, hauing behaued them selues valiantly; to others they distribu∣ted the Pillage, making small account of them as of cowards. They appointed Lands in com∣mon for the quarters of Mexico, to euery one his part, for the Seruice and Sacrifices of their Gods.* 6.268 This was the order which afterwards they alwayes kept, in the diuision of the Lands [ 60] and spoiles of those they had vanquished and subdued. By this meanes they of Azcapuzalco re∣mained so poore, as they had no Lands left them to labour, and (which was worse) they tooke their King from them, and all power to choose any other then him of Mexico.

Although the chiefe Citie of the Tapanecanes, was that of Azcapuzalco, yet had they o∣thers with their priuate Lords, as Tucuba and Cuyoacan. These seeing the storme passed,* 6.269 would gladly that they of Azcapuzalco had renewed the warre against the Mexicans, and seeing them danted, as a Nation wholly broken and defeated, they of Cuyoacan resolued to make warre by themselues; to the which they laboured to draw the other neighbour Nations, who would not stirre nor quarrell with the Mexicans. In the meane time the hatred and malice in∣creasing, they of Cuyoacan began to ill intreate the women that went to their Markets, mock∣ing at them, and doing the like to the men ouer whom they had power: for which cause the King of Mexico defended, that none of his should goe to Cuyoacan, and that they should receiue [ 10] none of them into Mexico, the which made them of Cuyoacan resolue wholly to warre: but first they would prouoke them by some shamefull scorne, which was, that hauing inuited them to one of their solemne Feasts, after they had made them a goodly Banquet, and feasted them with a great daunce after their manner, then sent them for their fruite, womens apparell, forcing them to put it on, and so to returne home like women to their Citie, reproaching them, that they were cowards and effeminate, and that they durst not take armes being sufficiently prouo∣ked. Those of Mexico say, that for reuenge they did vnto them a foule scorne, laying at the gates of their Citie of Cuyoacan certaine things which smoaked, by meanes whereof many women were deliuered before their time, and many fell sicke. In the end, all came to open war, and there was a battaile fought, wherein they imploied all their forces, in the which Tlacaellec, [ 20] by his courage and policie in warre, obtained the victorie. For hauing left King Izcoalt in fight with them of Cuyoacan, he put himselfe in ambush with some of the most valiant Souldi∣ers, and so turning about, charged them behinde, and forced them to retire into their Citie. But seeing their intent was to flie into a Temple which was very strong,* 6.270 he with three other va∣liant Souldiors, pursued them eagarly, and got before them, seising on the Temple and firing it, so as he forced them to flie to the fields, where he made a great slaughter of the vanquished, pur∣suing them two leagues into the Countrie, vnto a little hill, where the vanquished casting a∣way their weapons, and their armes a crosse, yeelded to the Mexicans, and with many teares craued pardon of their ouerweening folly, in vsing them like women, offering to be their slaues: so as in the end the Mexicanes did pardon them. Of this victory the Mexicans did carry away [ 30] very rich spoiles of Garments, Armes, Gold, Siluer, Iewels, and rich feathers, with a great num∣ber of Captiues. In this Battaile there were three of the principals of Culhuacan that came to aide the Mexicans, to win honour, the which were remarkeable aboue all. And since being knowne to Tlacaellec, and hauing made proofe of their fidelity, he gaue them Mexican deuises, and had them alwayes by his side, where they fought in all places very valiantly. It was ap∣parant that the whole victory was due to the Generall, and to these three; for among so ma∣ny captiues taken, two third parts were wonne by these foure, which was easily knowne by a policie they vsed: for taking a Captiue, they presently cut off a little of his haire, and gaue it to others, so as it appeared that those which had their haire cut, amonnted to that number, where∣by they wonne great reputation and fame of valiant men. They were honoured as Con∣querours, giuing them good portions of the spoiles and Lands, as the Mexicans haue alwaies vsed [ 40] to doe, which gaue occasion to those that did fight, to become famous, and to win reputation by Armes.

The Nation of the Tapanecans being subdued, the Mexicans had occasion to doe the like to the Suchimilcos,* 6.271 who (as it hath beene said) were the first of the seuen Caues or linages that peopled this Land. The Mexicans sought not the occasion, although they might presume as Conquerours to extend their limits, but the Suchimilcos did moue them, to their owne ruine, as it happens to men of small iudgement that haue no foresight, who not preuenting the mischiefe they imagined, fall into it. The Suchimilcos held opinion, that the Mexicans, by reason of their victories past, should attempt to subdue them, and consulted hereon among themselues. Some [ 50] among them thought it good to acknowledge them for superiours, and to applaud their good fortune, but the contrary was allowed, and they went out to giue them battaile: which Izcoalt the King of Mexico vnderstanding, he sent his Generall Tlacaellec against them, with his ar∣mie: the battaile was fought in the same field that diuides their limits, which two Armies were equall in men and armes, but very diuers in their order and manner of fighting; for that the Su∣chimilcos charged all together on a heape confusedly, and Tlacaellec diuided his men into squa∣drons with a goodly order, so as he presently brake his enemies, forcing them to retire into their Citie, into the which they entred, following them to the Temple whither they fled, which they fired, and forcing them to flye to the Mountaines: in the end they brought them to this point, that they yeelded with their arme acrosse.* 6.272 The Generall Tlacaellec returning in [ 60] great triumph, the Priests went forth to receiue him, with their musicke of Flutes, and giuing incense. The chiefe Captaines vsed other Ceremonies and shewes of ioy, as they had beene ac∣customed to doe, and the King with all the troupe went to the Temple to giue thankes to their false god.

The day following, the King Izcoalt went vnto the Citie of Suchimilco, causing himselfe to

be sworne King of the Suchimilcos: and for their comfort he promised to doe them good. In to∣ken whereof he commanded them to make a great Cawsey stretching from Mezico to Suchi∣milco, which is foure leagues, to the end there might be more commerce and trafficke among them.* 6.273 Which the Suchimilcos performed, and in short time the Mexican gouernment seemed so good vnto them, as they held themselues happy to haue changed their King and Common-weale. Some neighbours pricked forward by enuie, or feare, to their ruines, were not yet made wise by others miseries.

* 6.274Cuitlauaca was a Citie within the Lake: which though the name and dwelling be changed, continueth yet. They were actiue to swim in the Lake, and therefore they thought they might much indomage and annoy the Mexicans by water, which the King vnderstanding, he resol∣ued [ 10] to send his Armie presently to fight against them. But Tlacaellec little esteeming this warre, holding it dishonorable to lead an Armie against them, made offer to conquer them with the children onely: which he performed in this manner: he went vnto the Temple and drew out of the Couent such children as he thought fittest for the action, from tenne to eighteene yeares of age, who knew how to guide their Boates, or Canoes, teaching them certaine pollicies. The order they held in this warre,* 6.275 was, that he went to Cuitlauaca with his children, where by his pollicie he pressed the enemy in such sort, that he made them to flye; and as he followed them, the Lord of Cuitlauaca met him and yeelded vnto him, himselfe, his Citie, and his peo∣ple,* 6.276 and by this meanes he stayed the pursuite. The children returned with much spoyle, and many Captiues for their Sacrifices, being solemnely receiued with a great Procession, Musicke [ 20] and Perfumes, and they went to worship their gods, in taking of the earth which they did eate, and drawing bloud from the forepart of their legs with the Priests Lancets, with other su∣perstitions which they were accustomed to vse in the like solemnities. The children were much honored and encouraged, and the King imbraced and kissed them, and his kinsmen and allies accompanied them. The bruite of this victory ranne throughout all the Countrie, how that Tlacaellec had subdued the Citie of Cuitlauaca with children: the news and consideration where∣of opened the eyes of those of Tescuco, a chiefe and very cunning Nation for their manner of life: So as the King of Tescuco was first of opinion, that they should subiect themselues to the King of Mexico, and inuite him thereunto with his Citie. Therefore by the aduise of this Coun∣sell, they sent Ambassadours good Orators with honorable presents, to offer themselues vnto [ 30] the Mexicans, as their Subiects, desiring peace and amity, which was graciously accepted; but by the aduise of Tlacaellec he vsed a Ceremony for the effecting thereof, which was, that those of Tescuco should come forth armed against the Mexicans, where they should fight, and presently yeelde, which was an act and ceremony of warre, without any effusion of bloud on either side. Thus the King of Mexico became soueraigne Lord of Tescuco, but he tooke not their King from them, but made him of his Priuie Counsell; so as they haue alwaies maintai∣ned themselues in this manner vntill the time of Moteçuma the second, during whose raigne the Spaniards entred. Hauing subdued the Land and Citie of Tescuco, Mexico remained Lady and Mistris of all the Lands and Cities about the Lake, where it is built. Izcoalt hauing enioyed this prosperitie,* 6.277 and raigned twelue yeares, dyed, leauing the Realme which had [ 40] beene giuen him, much augmented by the valour and counsell of his Nephew Tlacaellec.

Forasmuch as the election of the new King, belonged to foure chiefe Electors, and to the King of Tescuco,* 6.278 and the King of Tacubu, by especiall priuiledge: Tlacaellec assembled these six personages, as he that had the soueraigne authority, and hauing propounded the matter vn∣to them, they made choise of Moteçuma, the first of that name, Nephew to the same Tlacaellec. His election was very pleasing vnto them all, by reason whereof, they made most solemne feasts, and more stately then the former. Presently after his election they conducted him to the Tem∣ple with a great traine, where before the diuine harth (as they call it) where there is continuall fi••e, they set him in his royall throane, putting vpon him his royall ornaments. Being there, the King drew bloud from his eares and legs with a Griffons talons,* 6.279 which was the Sacrifice where∣in [ 50] the diuell del••ghted to be honoured. The Priests, Ancients, and Captaines, made their Ora∣tions, all congratuling his election. They were accustomed in their elections to make great Feasts and Dances, where they wasted many lights. In this Kings time the custome was brought in,* 6.280 that the King should goe in person to make warre in some Prouince, and bring Captiues to solemnize the feast of his Coronation, and for the solemne Sacrifices of that day. For this cause King Moteçuma went into the Prouince of Chalco, who had declared themselues his enemies: from whence (hauing fought valiantly) he brought a great number of Captiues, whereof he did make a notable Sacrifice the day of his Coronation, although at that time he did not subdue all the Prouince of Chalco, being a verie warlike Nation. Manie came to this Coronation from di∣uers Prouinces, as w••••l neere as farre off, to see the feast, at the which all commers were verie [ 60] bountifully en••ertained and clad, especially the poore, to whom they gaue new garments. For this cause they ••roug••t that day into the Citie, the Kings tributes, with a goodly order▪ which cons••sted in S••uffes to make Garments of all sorts,* 6.281 in Cacao, Gold, Siluer, rich Feathers, great bur∣thens of Cotton, Cucumbers, sundrie sorts of P••••s••s, many kindes of Sea fish, and of the fresh

water, great store of Fruits, and Venison without number, not reckoning an infinite number of Presents; which other Kings and Lords sent to the new King. All this Tribute marched in or∣der according to the Prouinces, and before them the Stewards and receiuers, with diuers markes and Ensignes, in very goodly order: so as it was one of the goodliest things of the feast, to see the entrie of the Tribute. The King being crowned, he imploied himselfe in the conquest of ma∣ny Prouinces, and for that he was both valiant and vertuous, he still increased more and more, vsing in all his affaires the counsell and industrie of his Generall Tlacaellec, whom he did alwaies loue and esteeme very much, as he had good reason. The warre wherein he was most troubled and of greatest difficultie, was that of the Prouince of Chalco, wherein there happened great mat∣ters, whereof one was very remarkeable; which was, that they of Chalcas, had taken a brother [ 10] of Moteçumaes in the warres, whom they resolued to choose for their King, asking him verie curteously, if he would accept of this charge. He answered (after much importunitie, still per∣sisting therein) that if they ment plainely to choose him for their King, they should plant in the Market-place, a Tree or very high stake, on the top whereof, they should make a little scaf∣fold, and meanes to mount vnto it. The Chalcas supposing it had beene some ceremonie to make himselfe more apparant, presently effected it: then assembling all his Mexicans about the stake, he went to the top with a garland of flowers in his hand, speaking to his men in this manner, O valiant Mexicans, these men will choose me for their King, but the gods will not permit,* 6.282 that to be a King I should commit any treason against my Countrie, but contrariwise, I will that you learne by me, that it behooueth vs rather, to indure death, then to aide our enemies. Saying these words, [ 20] he cast himselfe downe, and was broken in a thousand peeces, at which spectacle, the Chalcas had so great horror and despite, that presently they fell vpon the Mexicans and slew them all with their Lances, as men whom they held too proud and inexorable, saying, they had diuellish hearts. It chanced the night following, they heard two Owles making a mournfull cry, which they did interpret as an vnfortunate signe, and a presage of their neere destruction, as it succee∣ded: for King Moteçuma went against them in person with all his power, where he van∣quished them, and ruined all their kingdome: and passing beyond the Mountaine Menade, he conquered still euen vnto the North Sea. Then returning towards the South Sea, he subdued many Prouinces; so as he became a mighty King: all by the helpe and counsell of Tlacaellec, who in a manner conquered all the Mexican Nation. Yet he held an opinion (the which was con∣firmed) [ 30] that it was not behoouefull to conquer the Prouince of Tlascalla, that the Mexicans might haue a frontier enemy, to keepe the youth of Mexico in exercise and allarme:* 6.283 and that they might haue numbers of Captiues to Sacrifice to their Idols, wherein they did waste (as hath beene said) infinite numbers of men, which should be taken by force in the wars. The honor must be giuen to Moteçuma, or to speak truly, to Tlacaellec his Generall, for the good order and pollicy setled in the Realme of Mexico, as also for the Counsels and goodly enterprises, which they did execute: and likewise for the number of Iudges and Magistrates, being as well ordered there, as in any Common-weale▪ yea, were it in the most flourishing of Europe. This King did also great∣ly increase the Kings house, giuing it great authoritie, and appointing many and sundry Offi∣cers, which serued him with great pompe and ceremony. He was no lesse remarkable touching [ 40] the deuotion and seruice of his Idols, increasing the number of his Ministers, and instituting new ceremonies, whereunto he carried a great respect.

He built that great Temple dedicated to their god Vitziliputzli,* 6.284 whereof is spoken in the o∣ther Booke. He did Sacrifice at the dedication of this Temple, a great number of men, taken in sundry victories: finally, inioying his Empire in great prosperitie, he fell sicke, and died, hauing raigned twentie eight yeares, vnlike to his successor Ticocic, who did not resemble him, neither in valour, nor in good fortune.

The foure Deputies assembled in counsell, with the Lords of Tescuco and Tacuba,* 6.285 where Tla∣caellec was President in the election, where by all their voices Tlacaellec was chosen, as deser∣uing this charge better then any other. Yet he refused it, perswading them by pertinent rea∣sons, [ 50] that they should choose another, saying, that it was better, and more expedient to haue another King, and he to be his instrument and assistant, as he had beene till then, and not to lay the whole burthen vpon him, for that he held himselfe no lesse bound for the Common∣weale, then if he were King; seeming to him, though he were not King, yet in a manner, that he commanded Kings, suffering him to carry certaine markes, as a Tiara or ornament for the head, which belonged onely to themselues: as in a Comedie he deserues most commendation▪* 6.286 that represents the personage that imports most. In recompence of his modesty, and for the re∣spect which the Mexican Electors bare him, they demanded of Tlacaellec (that seeing he would not raigne) whom hee thought most fit: Whereupon he gaue his voyce to a Sonne of the deceased King, who was then very young, called Ticocic: but they replied▪ [ 60] that his shoulders were very weake to beare so heauie a burthen. Tlacaellec answered, that his was there to helpe him to beare the burthen, as he had done to the deceased: by meanes whereof, they tooke their resolution, and Ticocic was chosen, to whom were done all the accustomed ceremonies.

* 6.287They pierced his nosthrils, and for an ornament put an Emerald therein: and for this reason, in the Mexican Bookes, this King is noted by his nosthrils pierced. Hee differed much from his Father and Predecessor, being noted for a coward, and not valiant. He went to make warre for his Coronation, in a Prouince that had rebelled, where hee lost more of his owne men then hee tooke captiues; yet he returned saying, that he brought the number of captiues required for the Sacrifice of his Coronation,* 6.288 and so hee was crowned with great solemnitie. But the Mexicans discontented to haue a King so little disposed to warre, practised to hasten his death by poison. For this cause he continued not aboue foure yeeres in the Kingdome. But this losse was well re∣paired by a Brother of the deceased, who was also sonne to great Moteçuma, called Axaya∣ca, who was likewise chosen by the aduice of Tlacaellec, wherein hee happened better then before. [ 10]

Now was Tlacaellec very old, who by reason of his age, was carried in a chaire vpon mens shoulders,* 6.289 to assist in counsell when businesse required. In the end he fell sicke, when as the King (who was not yet crowned) did visit him often, shedding many teares, seeming to loose in him his Father, and the Father of his Countrey. Tlacaellec did most affectionately recommend his children vnto him, especially the eldest, who had shewed himselfe valiant in the former warres. The King promised to haue regard vnto him, and the more to comfort the old man, in his pre∣sence hee gaue him the charge and ensignes of Captaine Generall, with all the preheminences of his Father; wherewith the old man remained so well satisfied, as with this content he ended his dayes.

The Mexicans made his Funerall as the Founder of that Empire, more sumptuous and state∣ly, [ 20] then they had done to any of their former Kings. And presently after Axayaca (to appease the sorrow which all the people of Mexico shewed for the death of their Captaine) resolued to make the voyage necessary for his Coronation. He therefore led his Armie with great expediti∣on into the Prouince of Tequantepec, two hundred leagues from Mexico, where he gaue battell to a mighty Army, and an infinite number of men assembled together, as well out of that Pro∣uince, as from their Neighbours, to oppose themselues against the Mexicans. The first of his Campe that aduanced himselfe, to the combate was the King himselfe, defying his enemies, from whom he made shew to flye when they charged him, vntill hee had drawne them into an Ambuscadoe, where many Souldiers lay hidden vnder straw, who suddenly issued forth, and they which fled,* 6.290 turned head: so as they of Tiquantepec remayned in the midst of them, whom they [ 30] charged furiously, making a great slaughter of them: and following their victorie, they razed their Citie and Temple, punishing all their Neighbours rigorously. Then went they on farther, and without any stay,* 6.291 conquered to Guatulco, the which is a Port at this day well knowne in the South Sea. Axayaca returned to Mezico with great and rich spoiles, where he was honourably crowned, with sumptuous and stately preparation of Sacrifices, Tributes, and other things, whi∣ther many came to see his Coronation. The Kings of Mexico receiued the Crowne from the hands of the King of Tescuco, who had the preheminence. Hee made many other Enterprises, where he obtained great victories, being alwayes the first to leade the Armie, and to charge the enemie; by the which he purchased the name of a most valiant Captaine: and not content to subdue strangers, he also suppressed his Subjects which had rebelled, which neuer any of his Pre∣decessors [ 40] euer could doe, or durst attempt. Wee haue alreadie shewed how some seditions of Mexico had diuided themselues from that Common-weale, and built a Citie neere vnto them, which they called Tlatelulco, whereas now Saint Iaques is.

These being reuolted, held a faction apart, and encreased and multiplyed much, refusing to acknowledge the Kings of Mexico, nor to yeeld them obedience. The King Axayaca sent to aduise them, not to liue diuided, but being of one bloud, and one people, to joyne together, and acknowledge the King of Mexico: wherupon the Lord of Tlatelulco made an answer ful of pride and disdaine, defying the King of Mexico, to single combate with himselfe: and presently mu∣stred his men, commanding some of them to hide themselues in the weeds of the Lake; and the better to deceiue the Mexicans, he commanded them to take the shapes of Rauens, Geese, and [ 50] other Beasts, as Frogges, and such like, supposing by this meanes to surprize the Mexicans as they should passe by the wayes and cawsies of the Lake. Hauing knowledge of this defie, and of his Aduersaries policie, he diuided his Armie, giuing a part to his Generall, the sonnne of Tla∣caellec, commanding him to charge this Ambuscadoe, in the Lake; and hee with the rest of his people, by an vnfrequented way, went and incamped before Tlatelulco. Presently he called him who had defied him, to performe his promise, and as the two Lords of Mexico, and Tlatelulco aduanced, they commanded their Subjects not to mooue, vntill they had seene who should bee Conquerour,* 6.292 which was done, and presently the two Lords encountred valiantly, where hauing fought long, in the end the Lord of Tlatelulco was forced to turne his backe, being vnable to in∣dure the furious charge of the King of Mexico. Those of Tlatelulco seeing their Captaine flye, [ 60] fainted, and fled likewise, but the Mexicans following them at the heeles, charged them furious∣ly; yet the Lord of Tlatelulco escaped not the hands of Axayaca; for thinking to saue himselfe, hee fled to the top of the Temple, but Axayaca followed him so neere, as hee seized on him with

great force, and threw him from the top to the bottome, and after set fire on the Temple, and the Citie.

Whilest this passed at Tlatelulco,* 6.293 the Mexican Generall was very hote in the reuenge of those that pretended to defeat him by policie, and after hee had forced them to yeeld, and to cry for mercy, the Generall said he would not pardon them, vntill they had first performed the Offices of those figures they represented, and therefore hee would haue them cry like Frogges and Ra∣uens, euery one according to the figure which he had vndertaken, else they had no composition: which thing he did to mocke them with their owne policie. Feare and Necessitie bee perfect Teachers, so as they did sing and cry with all the differences of voices that were commanded [ 10] them, to saue their liues, although they were much grieued at the sport their enemies made at them. They say that vnto this day, the Mexicans vse to jeast at the Tlatelulcans, which they beare impatiently, when they put them in minde of this singing and crying of beasts. King Azayaca tooke pleasure at this scorne and disgrace, and presently after they returned to Mexico with great joy. This King was esteemed for one of the best that had commanded in Mexico. Hee reigned eleuen yeeres.

Among the foure Electors that had power to choose whom they pleased to be King,* 6.294 there was one endued with many perfections, named Autzol. This man was chosen by the rest, and this election was very pleasing to all the people: for besides that he was valiant, all held him cour∣teous and affable to euery man, which is one of the chiefe qualities required in them that com∣mand, [ 20] to purchase loue and respect. To celebrate the Feast of his Coronation, hee resolued to make a Voyage, and to punish the pride of those of Quaxulatlan, a very rich and plentifull Pro∣uince, and at this day the chiefe of New Spaine. They had robbed his Officers and Stewards, that carried the Tribute to Mexico, and therewithall were rebelled. There was great difficultie to re∣duce this Nation to obedience, lying in such sort, as an arme of the Sea stopt the Mexicans pas∣sage: to passe the which Autzol (with a strange deuice and industry) caused an Iland to be made in the water, of faggots, earth, and other matter; by meanes whereof, both hee and his men might passe to the enemie, where giuing them battell, he conquered them, and punished them at his pleasure. Then returned he vnto Mexico in triumph, and with great riches, to bee crowned King, according to their custome. Autzol extended the limits of his Kingdome farre, by many [ 30] Conquests, euen vnto Guatimal••a, which is three hundred leagues from Mexico. Hee was no lesse liberall then valiant for when as the Tributes arriued which (as I haue said) came in great abundance, hee went forth of his Palace, gathering together all the people into one place, then commanded he to bring all the Tributes, which he diuided to those that had need. To the poore he gaue Stuffes to make them apparell, and meate, and whatsoeuer they had need of in great a∣bundance, and things of value, as Gold, Siluer, Iewels, and Feathers, were diuided amongst the the Captaines, Souldiers, and Seruants of his House according to euery mans merit. This Aut∣zol was likewise a great Politician, hee pulled downe the houses ill built, and built others very sumptuous.

It seemed vnto him that the Citie of Mexico had too little water, and that the Lake was [ 40] very muddie, and therefore hee resolued to let in a great course of water, which they of Cuyoacan vsed. For this cause hee called the chiefe man of the Citie vnto him, beeing a famous Sorcerer, hauing propounded his meaning vnto him: the Sorcerer wished him to bee well aduised what he did, being a matter of great difficultie, and that he vnderstood, if hee drew the Riuer out of her ordinary course, making it passe to Mexico, hee would drowne the Citie. The King supposed these excuses were but to frustrate the effect of his Designe, being therefore in choler, he dismissed him home, and a few dayes after he sent a Prouost to Cuyoacon, to take this Sorcerer: who hauing vnderstanding for what intent the Kings Officers came, he caused them to enter his house, and then he presented himselfe vnto them in the forme of a terrible Eagle,* 6.295 wherewith the Prouost and his companions being terrified, they returned without taking him. Autzol in∣censed herewith sent others, to whom he presented himselfe in forme of a furious Tigre, so as [ 50] they durst not touch him. The third came, and they found him in the forme of a horrible Ser∣pent, whereat they were much afraid. The King mooued the more with these doings, sent to tell them of Cuyoacan, that if they brought not the Sorcerer bound vnto him, hee would raze their Citie. For feare whereof, or whether it were of his owne free will, or being forced by the peo∣ple, he suffered himselfe to be led to the King, who presently caused him to bee strangled, and then then did he put his resolution in practice, forcing a channell whereby the water might passe to Mexico, whereby he brought a great current of water into the Lake, which they brought with great Ceremonies and Superstitions, hauing Priests casting Incense along the bankes, o∣thers sacrificed Q••ailes, and with the bloud of them sprinkled the channell bankes, others soun∣ding [ 60] of Cornets, accompanied the water with their Musicke. One of the chiefe went at∣tired in a habit like to their Goddesse of the water, and all saluted her, saying, that she was wel∣come. All which things are painted in the Annalls of Mexico: which Booke is now at Rome in the holy Library, or Vatican, where a Father of our Company, that was come from Mexico,* 6.296 did see it, and other Histories, the which he did expound to the Keeper of his Holinesse Library,

taking great delight to vnderstand this Booke, which before hee could neuer comprehend. Finally, the water was brought to Mexico, but it came in such abundance, that it had wel-neere drowned the Citie, as was foretold: and in effect it did ruine a great part thereof, but it was presently preuented by the industry of Autzol, who caused an issue to bee made to draw forth the water: by meanes whereof hee repayned the buildings that were fallen, with an exquisite worke, being before but poore Cottages. Thus he left the Citie inuironed with wa∣ter, like another Venice, and very well built: he reigned eleuen yeeres, and ended with the last and greatest Successor of all the Mexicans.

[ 10]

§. III. Of the Election of great MOTEZVMA, the last King of Mexico: his pompe and manner of gouernment, prodigious fore-war∣nings, of his ruine, and the Spanish Conquest.

WHen the Spaniards entred New Spaine, being in the yeere of our Lord 151••. Moteçu∣ma second of that name, was the last King of the Mexicans, I say the last, although they of Mexico, after his death, chose another King, yea, in the life of the same Mo∣teçuma, [ 20] whom they declared an enemy to his Countrey, as wee shall see hereafter. But he that succeeded him, and he that fell into the hands of the Marquesse de Valle, had but the names and titles of Kings, for that the Kingdome was in a manner all yeelded to the Spaniards: so as with reason we account Moteçuma for the last King, and so hee came to the period of the Mexicans power and greatnesse, which is admirable beeing happened among Barbarians. For this cause, and for that this was the season, that God had chosen to reueale vnto them the know∣ledge of his Gospell, and the Kingdome of Iesus Christ, I will relate more as large the Acts of Moteçuma, then of the rest.

Before he came to be King, hee was by disposition, very graue and stayed, and spake little, so as when he gaue his opinion in the priuy Counsell, whereas he assisted, his speeches and dis∣courses [ 30] made euery one to admire him, so as euen then he was feared and respected. He retyred himselfe vsually into a Chappell, appointed for him in the Temple of Vitzliputzli, where they said their Idoll spake vnto him▪ and for this cause hee was held very religious and deuout. For these perfections then, being most noble and of great courage, his el••ction was short and easie, as a man vpon whom all mens eyes were fixed, as worthy of such a charge. Hauing intelligence of this election, he hid himselfe in this Chappell of the Temple, whether it were by judge∣ment (apprehending so heauy and hard a burthen) as to gouerne such a people, or rather, as I be∣leeue, through hypocrisie, to shew that hee desired not Empery: In the end they found him, leading him to the place of Councell, whither they accompanied him with all possible joy: he marched with such a grauity, as they all said the name of Moteçuma agreed very well with [ 40] his nature, which is as much to say, as an angry Lord. The Electors did him great reuerence, gi∣uing him notice, that hee was chosen King: from thence hee was led before the hearth of their Gods, to giue Incense, where he offered Sacrifices in drawing bloud from his eares, and the calues of his legs, according to their custome. They attyred him with the Royall ornaments, and pier∣ced the gristle of his nosthrils, hanging thereat a rich Emerald, a barbarous and troublous cu∣stome: but the desire of rule, made all paine light and easie. Being seated in his Throne, hee gaue audience to the Orations and Speeches that were made vnto him, which according vnto their custome were eloquent and artificiall.

The first was pronounced by the King of Tescuco, which being preserued, for that it was lately deliuered,* 6.297 and very worthy to bee heard, I will set it downe word by word, and thus hee [ 50] said: The concordance and vnitie of voyces vpon thy election, is a sufficient testimonie (most noble young man) of the happinesse the Realme shall receiue, as well deseruing to be commanded by thee, as also for the generall applause which all doe shew by meanes thereof.* 6.298 Wherein they haue great reason, for the Empire of Mexico doth alreadie so farre extend it selfe, that to gouerne a World, as it is, and to beare so heauie a burthen, it requires no lesse dexteritie and courage, then that which is resident in thy firme and valiant heart,* 6.299 nor of lesse wisdome and iudgement then thine. I see and know plainly, that the mightie God loueth this Citie, seeing hee hath giuen vnderstanding to choose what was fit. For who will not beleeue that a Prince, who before his Reigne had pierced the ••ine Vaults of Heauen, should not likewise now obtaine those things that are earthly to relieue his people, aiding himselfe with his best iudgement, being thereunto bound by the dutie and charge of a King? Who will likewise beleeue that [ 60] the great courage which thou hast alwayes valiantly shewed in matters of importance, should now faile thee in matters of greatest need? Who will not perswade himselfe but the Mexican Empire is come to the height of their Souereigntie, seeing the Lord of things created hath imparted so great graces vn∣to thee,* 6.300 that with thy looke onely thou breedest admiration in them that behold thee? Reioyce then, O

happie Land, to whom the Creator hath giuen a Prince, as a firme Pillar to support thee, which shall bee thy Father and thy defence, by whom thou shalt be succoured at need,* 6.301 who will bee more th••n a brother to his subiects, for his pietie and clemenci••. Thou hast a King, who in regard of his estate is not inclined to delights, or will lye stretched out vpon his bed, occupied in pleasures and vices, but contrariwise in the middest of his sweet and pleasant sleep, he will suddenly wake for the c••re he must haue ouer thee, and will not feele the taste of the most sauourie 〈◊〉〈◊〉, hauing his spirits transported with the imagination of thy good. Tell me then (O happie Realme) if I haue not reason to say that thou oughtest reioyce, hauing found such a King; And thou noble young man, and our most mightie Lord, be confident, and of a good courage, that seeing the Lord of things created hath giuen thee this charge, hee will also giue thee force and courage to manage it: and thou mayest well hope, that hee which in times past hath vsed so great [ 10] bountie towards thee, will ••pt now deny thee his greater gift••▪ seeing he hath giuen thee so great a charge, which I wish thee to enioy many yeeres. King Moteçuma was very attentiue to this Discourse: which being ended, they say hee was so troubled, that endeuouring thri••e to answere 〈◊〉〈◊〉, hee could not speake, being ouercome with teares, which joy and content doe vsually cause, in signe of great humility. In the end being come to himselfe, he spake briefly, I were too blind, good King of Tescuco, if I did not know, that what thou hast spoken vnto me, proceeded of meere fauour,* 6.302 is pleaseth you to shew me, seeing among so many noble and valiant men within this Realme, you haue made choice of the least sufficient: and in truth, I find my selfe so incapeable of a charge of so great impor∣tance, that I know not what to doe, but to beseech the Creatour of all created things, that hee will [ 20] fauour mee, and I intreate you all to pray vnto him for me. These words vttered, hee beganne a∣gaine to weepe.

He that in his election made such shew of humility and mildnesse, seeing himselfe King,* 6.303 be∣gan presently to discouer his aspiring thoughts. The first was, hee commanded that no plebeian should serue in his house, nor beare any Royal Office, as his Predecessors had vsed til then▪ blaming them that would be serued by men of base condition, commanding that all the noble and most fa∣mous men of his Realme should liue within his Palace, and exercise the Offices of his Court, and House. Whereunto an old man of great authoritie (who had somtimes bin his Schoolemaster) op∣posed himselfe, aduising him▪ to be careful what he did, and not to thrust himselfe into the danger of a great inconuenience, in separating him selfe from the vulgar and common people, so as they [ 30] should not dare to looke him in the face, seeing themselues so reiected by him. He answered, that it was his resolution, and that he would not allow the Plebeians thus to goe mingled among the Nobles, as they had done, saying, that the seruice they did, was according to their condition, so as the Kings got no reputation, and thus he continued fir•••• in his resolution. Hee presently commanded his Counsell to dismisse all the Plebeians from their charges and offices, as well those of his Houshold as of his Court, and to prouide Knight••, the which was done. After hee went in person to an enterprize necessary for his Coronation. At that time a Prouince lying farre off towards the North Ocean, was reuolted from the Crown, whither he led the flower of his peo∣ple, well appointed. There he warred with such valour and dexteritie, that in the end hee sub∣dued all the Prouince, and punished the Rebels seuerely, returning with a great number of [ 40] Captiues for the Sacrifices, and many other spoyles. All the Cities made him solemne recepti∣ons at his returne, and the Lords thereof gaue him water to wash, performing the offices of ser∣uants, a thing not vsed by any of his Predecessors. Such was the feare and respect they bare him. In Mexico, they made the Feasts of his Coronation with great preparations of Dances, Comedies, Banquets, Lights, and other inuentions for many dayes. And there came so great a wealth of Tributes from all his Countreyes, that strangers vnknowne came to Mexico, and their very e∣nemies resorted in great numbers disguised to see these Feasts, as those of Tlascalla, and Mechona∣can: the which Moteçuma hauing discouered, he commanded they should be lodged and gently intreated, and honoured as his owne person. He also made them goodly Galleries like vnto his owne, where they might see and behold the Feasts. So they entred by night to those Feasts, as [ 50] the King himselfe, making their Sports and Maskes. And for that I haue made mention of these Prouinces, it shall not be from the purpose to vnderstand, that the Inhabitants of Mechonacan, Tlascalla, and Tapeaca, would neuer yeeld to the Mexicans, but did alwayes fight valiantly a∣gainst them; yea, sometimes the Mecho••acans did vanquish the Mexicans, as also those of Ta∣peaca did. In which place, the Marquesse Don Ferrand Cortes, after that hee and the Spaniards were expelled Mexico, pretended to build their first Citie, the which hee called (as I well re∣member) Segure dela Frontiere: But this peopling continued little: for hauing afterwards recon∣quered Mexico, all the Spaniards went to inhabite there. To conclude, those of Tapeaca, Tlascalla,* 6.304 and Mechonacan, haue beene alwayes enemies to the Mexicans; although Moteçuma said vnto Cortes, that hee did purposely forbear•• to subdue them; to haue occasion to exercise his men of [ 60] warre, and to take numbers of captiues.* 6.305

This King laboured to bee respected, yea, to be worshipped as a God. No Plebeian might looke him in the face; if he did, he was punished with death: he did neuer let his foot on the ground, but was alwayes carried on the shoulders of Noblemen; and if he lighted, they laid rich Tapistrie whereon hee did goe. When hee made any Voyage, hee and the Noblemen went as it were

in a Parke * 6.306 compassed in for the nonce, and the rest of the people went without the Parke, enuironing it in on euery side; hee neuer put on a garment twice, nor did eate or drinke in one vessell or dish aboue once▪ all must be new, giuing to his attendants that which had once serued him: so as commonly they were rich and sumptuous. Hee was very carefull to haue his Lawes obserued.* 6.307 And when he returned victor from any warre, hee fained sometimes to goe and take his pleasure, then would hee disguise himselfe, to see if his people (supposing hee were absent) would omit any thing of the feast or reception: If there were any excesse or defect, hee then did punish it rigorously.* 6.308 And also to discerne how his Ministers did execute their Offices, hee often disguised himselfe, offering gifts and presents to the Iudges, prouoking them to doe in-justice. If they offended,* 6.309 they were presently punished with death, without remission or respect▪ were they Noblemen, or his Kinsmen; yea, his owne Brethren. Hee was little conuersant with his [ 10] people, and seldome seene, retyring himselfe most commonly to care for the gouernment of his Realme. Besides that, he was a great Iusticier and very Noble, he was very valiant and happy, by meanes whereof, hee obtayned great victories, and came to this greatnesse, as is written in the Spanish Histories, whereon it seemes needlesse to write mere. I will onely haue a care here∣after to write what the Books and Histories of the Indies make mention of; the which the Spa∣nish Writers haue not obserued, hauing not sufficiently vnderstood the secrets of this Countrey, the which are things very worthy to be knowne, as we shall see hereafter.

It chanced th••t Mot••çuma hauing reigned many yeeres in great prosperitie, and so puft vp in his conceit, as he caused himselfe to be serued and feared, yea to be worshipped as a God, that the Almighty Lord began to chastice him, and also to admonish him, suffering euen the very Deuils [ 20] whom he worshipped, to tell him these heauy tydings of the ruine of his Kingdome, and to tor∣ment him by Visions, which had neuer beene seene; wherewith hee remayned so melancholy and troubled, as he was void of judgement.

* 6.310The Idoll of those of Ch••lol••, which they called Quetzacoalt, declared, that a strange peo∣ple came to possesse his Kingdomes. The King of Tescuco (who was a great Magitian, and had conference with the Deuill) came one day at an extraordinary houre to visit Moteçuma, assu∣ring him that his Gods had told him, that there were great losses preparing for him, and for his whole Realme: many Witches and Sorcerers went and declared as much, amongst which there was one, did very particulary foretell him what should happen: and as hee was with him hee told him that the pulses of his feete and hands failed him. Moteçuma troubled with these [ 30] newes, commanded all those Sorcerers to be apprehended: but they vanished presently in the Prison, wherewith he grew into such a rage, that he might not kill them▪ as hee put their wiues and children to death,* 6.311 destroying their Houses and Families. Seeing himselfe importuned and troubled with these aduertisements, hee sought to appease the anger of his Gods: and for that cause hee laboured to bring a huge stone, thereon to make great Sacrifices: For the effecting whereof hee sent a great number of people with Engins and Instruments to bring it: which they could by no meanes mooue, although (being obstinate) they had broken many Instruments. But as they stroue still to raise it, they heard a voyce joyning to the stone, which said they labou∣red in vaine, and that they should not raise it, for that the Lord of things created would no more suffer those things to be done there. Moteçuma vnderstanding this, commanded the Sacrifice [ 40] to be performed in that place, and they say the voyce spake againe: Haue I not told you, that it is not the pleasure of the Lord of things created, that it should bee done? and that you may well know that it is so, I will suffer my selfe to bee transported a little, then after you shall not mooue mee. Which happened so indeed, for presently they carried it a small distance with great facilitie, then afterwards they could not mooue it, till that after many Prayers, it suffered it selfe to bee transported to the entry of the Citie of Mexico, where suddenly it fell into the Lake, where seeking for it, they could not find it, but it was afterwards found in the same place from whence they had remooued it, wherewith they remayned amazed and confounded.

At the same time there appeared in the Element a great flame of fire, very bright, in the forme of a Pyramide, which beganne to appeare at midnight, and went still mounting vntill the Sunne [ 50] rising in the morning, where it stayed at the South, and then vanished away. It shewed it selfe in this sort the space of a whole yeere, and euer as it appeared the people cast forth great cryes as they were accustomed, beleeuing it was a presage of great misfortune. It happened also that fire tooke the Temple, when as no body was within it, nor neere vnto it, neyther did there fall any lightning or thunder: whereupon the Guards crying out, a number of people ranne with water, but nothing could helpe, so as it was all consumed; and they say the fire seemed to come forth of pieces of timber, which kindled more by the water that was cast vpon it. There was a Comet seene in the day time, running from the West to the East, casting an infinite number of sparkles, and they say the forme was like to a long tayle, hauing three heads. [ 60]

The great Lake betwixt Mexico and Tescuco, without any winde, earthquake, or any other apparant signe, began sudainly to swell, and the waues grew in such sort, as all the buildings neere vnto it fell downe to the ground. They say at that time they heard many voices, as of a

woman in paine, which said sometimes, O my children, the time of your destruction is come: and otherwhiles it said, O my children, whither shall I carry you that you perish not vtterly? There ap∣peared likewise many Monsters with two heads, which being carried before the King,* 6.312 sudainly vanished. There were two that exceeded all other Monsters▪ being very strange; the one was, the Fishers of the Lake tooke a Bird as bigge as a Crane, and of the same colour,* 6.313 but of a strange and vnseene forme. They carried it to Moteçuma, who at that time was in the pallace of teares and mourning, which was all hanged with blacke; for as he had many Pallaces for his recreation, so had he also others for times of affliction, wherewith he was then heauily charged and tormented, by reason of the threatnings his gods had giuen him by these sorrowfull aduer∣tisements. The Fishers came about noone setting this Bird before him, which had on the top [ 10] of his head a thing bright and transparent, in forme of a Looking-glasse, wherein he did be∣hold a warlike Nation comming from the East, armed, fighting, and killing. He called his Di∣uines and Astronomers (whereof there was a great number) who hauing seene these things, and not able to yeelde any reason of what was demanded of them, the Bird vanished away, so as it was neuer more seene: whereupon Moteçuma remained very heauy and sorrowfull. The other which happened, was a Laborer, who had the report of a very honest man; he came vnto him, telling him, that being the day before at his worke, a great Eagle flew towards him, and tooke him vp in his talents, without hurting him, carrying him into a certaine Caue, where it left him; The Eagle pronouncing these words, Most mighty Lord, I haue brought him whom thou hast commanded me: This Indian Laborer looked aboue on euery side, to whom he spake, but he [ 20] saw no man. Then he heard a voyce which said vnto him, Doost thou not know this man, whom thou seest lying vpon the ground? and looking thereon, he perceiued a man to lye very heauy asleepe, with royall ensignes, flowers in his hand, and a staffe of perfumes burning, as they are accustomed to vse in that Country: whom the Labourer beholding, knew it was the great King Moteçuma, and answered presently: Great Lord, this resembles our King Motezuma▪ The voice said againe, Thou sayest true, behold what he is, and how hee lies asleepe, carelesse of the great miseries and afflictions prepared for him. It is now time that he pay the great number of offences he hath done to God, and that he receiue the punishment of his tyrannies, and great pride, and yet thou seest how carelesse he lyes, blinde in his owne miseries, and without any feeling. But to the end thou maiest [ 30] the better see him, take the staffe of perfumes he holds burning in his hand, and put it to his face, then shalt then finde him without feeling. The poore laborer durst not approach neere him, nor doe as he was commanded, for the great feare they all had of this King. But the voice said, Haue no feare, for I am without comparison greater than this King 〈◊〉〈◊〉 destroy him, and defend him, doe there∣fore what I command thee. Whereupon the Laborer tooke the staffe of perfumes out of the Kings hand, and put it burning to his nose, but he moued not, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 shewed any feeling. This done▪ the voice said vnto him, that seeing he had found the King so sleepie, he should goe awake him, and tell him what he had seene. Then the Eagle by the same commandement, tooke the man in hs talents, and set him in the same place where he found him, and for accomplishment of that which he had spoken, he came to aduertise him. They say, that Moteçuma looking on his face, [ 40] found that he was burnt, the which he had not felt till then, wherewith he continued excee∣ding heauie and troubled.

In the foureteenth yeare of the raigne of Moteçuma,* 6.314 which was in the yeare of our Lord 1517. there appeared in the North Seas, Shippes, and men landing, whereat the Subiects of Moteçuma wondred much, and desirous to learne, and to be better satisfied what they were, they went aboord in their Canoes, carrying many refreshings of meates and stuffes to make apparrell, vpon colour to sell them. The Spaniards receiued them into their Shippes, and in ex∣change of their victuals and stuffes, which were acceptable vnto them, they gaue them chaines of false Stones, red, blew, greene, and yellow, which the Indians imagined to be precious stones. The Spaniards inforning themselues, who was their King, and of his great power, dismissed [ 50] them, willing them to carry those Stones vnto their Lord, saying, that for that time they could not goe to him, but they would presently returne and visite him. Those of the coast went pre∣sently to Mexico with this message, carrying the representation of what they had seene, pain∣ted on a cloath, both of the Shippes, Men, and Stones which they had giuen them.* 6.315 King Mote∣çuma remained very pensiue with this message, commanding them not to reueale it to any one. The day following, he assembled his Counsell, and hauing shewed them the painted cloathes and the Chaines, he consulted what was to be done: where it was resolued to set good watches vpon all the Sea coasts, to giue present aduertisement to the King of what they should discouer. The yeare following, which was in the beginning of the yeare 1518. they discouered a Fleete at Sea, in the which was the Marquise of Valle Don Fernande Cortes, with his companions, [ 60] newes which much troubled Moteçuma, and conferring with his Counsell, they all said, that without doubt, their great and auncient Lord Queztzal••oalt was come, who had said, that he would returne from the East, whither he was gone. The Indians held opinion,* 6.316 that a great Prince had in times past left them, and promised to returne. Of the beginning and ground of which opinion shall be spoken in another place. They therefore sent fiue principall Ambassadors

with rich presents, to congratulate his comming, saying, they knew well that their great Lord Queztzalcoalt was come, and that his seruant Moteç••ma sent to visite him, for so he accounted himselfe. The Spaniards vnderstood this message by the meanes of Marina, an Indian woman whom they brought with them which vnderstood the Mexican tongue. Fernande de Cartes fin∣ding this a good occasion for his entry,* 6.317 commanded to decke his Chamber richly, and being set in great state and pompe, he caused the Ambassadors to enter, who omitted no shewes of humili∣tie, but to worship him as their god.

They deliuered their charge, saying, that his seruant Moteçuma sent to visit him, and that he held the Country in his name as his Lieutenant, that he knew well it was the Top••lcin which had beene promised them many yeares since, who should returne againe vnto them. And there∣fore they brought him such Garments as he was wont to weare, when he did conuerse amongst [ 10] them, beseeching him to accept willingly of them, offering him many presents of great value. Cortes receiuing the presents, answered, that he was the same they spake of, wherewith they were greatly satisfied, seeing themselues to be curteously receiued and intreated by him. To con∣clude, the day after this Ambassage, all the Captaines and Commanders of the Fleete, came vnto the Admirall, where vnderstanding the matter, and that this Realme of Moteçuma was mighty and rich, it seemed fit to gaine the reputation of braue and valiant men among this people, and that by this meanes (although they were few) they should be feared and receiued into Mexico. To this end they discharged all their Artillery from their Shippes, which being a thing the Indians had neuer heard, they were amazed, as if heauen had fallen vpon them. Then the Spa∣niards beganne to defie them to fight with them:* 6.318 but the Indians not daring to hazard them∣selues, [ 20] they did beate them and intreate them ill, shewing their Swords, Lances, Pertuisans, and other armes, wherewith they did terrifie them much. The poore Indians were by reason here∣of so fearefull and amazed, as they changed their opinion, saying, that their Lord Topilcin came not in this troupe, but they were some gods (their enemies) came to destroy them. When as the Ambassadors returned to Mexico, Moteçuma was in the house of audience; but before he would heare them,* 6.319 this miserable man commanded a great number of men to be sacrificed in his presence, and with their bloud to sprinkle the Ambassadors (supposing by this ceremony) which they were accustomed to doe in solemne Ambassages) to receiue a good answer. But vnderstan∣ding the report and information of the manner of their Ships, Men, and Armes, he stood per∣plexed [ 30] and confounded: then taking counsell thereon, he found no better meanes, then to labor to stop the entry of these strangers, by Coniurations and Magicke Arts. They had accustomed often to vse this meanes, hauing great conference with the Deuill, by whose helpe they some∣times obtained strange effects. They therefore assembled together all the Sorcerers, Magitians, and Inchanters, who being perswaded by Moteçuma, they tooke it in charge to force this peo∣ple to returne vnto their Country. For this consideration, they went to a certaine place which they thought fit for the inuocation of their Deuils,* 6.320 and practising their Arts (a thing worthy of consideration) They wrought all they could; but seeing nothing could preuaile against the Chri∣stians, they went to the King, telling him that they were more then men, for that nothing might hurt them, notwithstanding, all their Coniurations and Inchantments. Then Moteçu∣ma aduised him of another policie, that faining to be very well contented with their comming, [ 40] he commanded all his Countries to serue these celestiall gods that were come into his Land. The whole people was in great heauinesse and amazement, and often newes came that the Spaniards inquired for the King, of his manner of life, of his house and meanes. He was exceedingly vexed herewith: some of the people and other Negromanciers aduised him to hide himselfe, offering to place him whereas no creature should euer finde him. This seemed base vnto him, and therefore he resolued to attend them, although it were dying. In the end he left his Houses and royall Prllaces to lodge in others, leauing them for these gods as he said.

I pretend not to intreate of the acts and deedes of the Spaniards, who conquered New Spaine, [ 50] nor the strange aduentures which happened vnto them,* 6.321 nor of the courage and inuincible valour of their Captaine Don Fernando Cortes: for that there are many Histories and Relations thereof, as those which Fernando Cortes himselfe did write to the Emperour Charles the fift, although they be in a plaine stile, and farre from arrogancy, the which doe giue a sufficient testimony of what did passe, wherein he was worthy of eternall memory, but onely to accomplish my in∣tention: I am to relate what the Indians report of this action, the which hath not to this day beene written in our vulgar tongue. Moteçuma therefore, hauing notice of this Captains victo∣ries, that he aduanced for his conquest, that he was confederate and ioyned with them of Tlas∣calla, his capitall enemies, and that he had seuerely punished them of Cholola his friends, he studi∣ed how to deceiue him, or else to try him in sending a principall man vnto him, attyred with the lake ornaments and royall ensignes, the which should take vpon him to be Moteçuma, which [ 60] fiction being discouered to the Marquise by them of Tlascalla (who did accompany him) he sent him backe, after a milde and gentle reprehension, in seeking so to deceiue him: whereupon Moteçuma was so confounded, that for the feare thereof he returned to his first imaginations

and practises, to force the Christians to retire, by the inuocation of Coniurers and Witches. And therfore he assembled a greater number then before, threatning them, that if they returned with∣out effecting what he had giuen them in charge, not any one should escape, whereunto they all promised to obey. And for this cause, all the Deuils officers went to the way of Chalco,* 6.322 by the which the Spaniards should passe, when mounting to the top of a hill, Tezcalipuca, one of their principall gods, appeared vnto them, as comming from the Spaniards campe, in the habit of Chal∣cas, who had his paps bound about eight fold with a cord of reedes, he came like a man beside himselfe, out of his wits, and drunke with rage and furie. Being come to this troupe of Witches and Coniurers, he stayed, and spake to them in great choller, Why come you hither? what doth Mo∣tecuma pretend to doe by your meanes? He had aduised himselfe too late: for it is now determined, that [ 10] his Kingdome and honour shall be taken from him, with all that he possesseth, for punishment of the great tyrannies he hath committed against his Subiects, hauing gouerned not like a Lord, but like a traitour and tyrant. The Inchanters and Coniurers hearing these words, knew it was their Idoll, and hum∣bling themselues before him, they presently built him an Altar of Stone in the same place, coue∣ring it with flowers which they gathered thereabouts, but he contrariwise, making no account of these things, began againe to chide them, saying: What come you hither to doe, O ye traitours? Returne presently and behold Mexico, that you may vnderstand what shall become thereof. And they say, that returning towards Mexico to behold it, they did see it flaming on fire. Then the De∣uill vanished away, and they not daring to passe any farther, gaue notice thereof to Motezu∣ma, whereat he remained long without speaking, looking heauily on the ground; then he said, [ 20] What shall we doe if god and our friends leaue vs, and contrariwise, they helpe and fauour our enemies? I am now resolute, and we ought all to resolue in this point, that happen what may, wee must not flye nor hide our seluer, or shew any signe of cowardise. I onely pittie the aged and infants, who haue nei∣ther feete nor hands to defend themselues. Hauing spoken this, he held his peace, being transpor∣ted into an extasie. In the end, the Marquesse approaching to Mexico, Motezuma resolued to make of necessity a vertue, going three or foure leagues out of the Citie to receiue him with a great maiesty, carried vpon the shoulders of foure Noblemen, vnder a rich Canapy of Gold and Feathers. When they met, Motezuma descended, and they saluted one another very curteously. Don Fernando Cortes said vnto him, that he should not care for any thing, and that he came not [ 30] to take away his Realme, nor to diminish his authority. Motezuma lodged Cortes, and his com∣panions in his royall Pallace, the which was very stately, and he himselfe lodged in other pri∣uate houses. This night the Souldiers for ioy discharged their Artillery, wherewith the Indians were much troubled, being vnaccustomed to heare such Musicke. The day following, Cortes caused Motezuma and all the Nobles of his Court to assemble in a great Hall, where being set in a high Chaire, he said vnto them, that he was seruant to a great Prince, who had sent them in∣to these Countries to doe good workes, and that hauing found them of Tlascalla to be his friends (who complained of wrongs and greeuances done vnto them daily by them of Mexico) he would vnderstand which of them was in the blame, and reconcile them,* 6.323 that hereafter they might n•• more afflict and warre one against another: and in the meane time, he and his brethren (which [ 40] were the Spaniards) would remaine still there without hurting them: but contrariwise, they would helpe them all they could. He laboured to make them all vnderstand this discourse, vsing his Interpreters and truchmen. The which being vnderstood by the King and the other Mexi∣can Lords, they were wonderfully well satisfied, and shewed great signes of loue to Cortes and his company. So it is, that by some occasions, many complaints, griefes, and iealousies grew on ei∣ther side. The which Cortes finding, & that the Indians mindes began to be distracted from them, he thought it necessary to assure himselfe, in laying hand vpon King Moteçuma, who was seized on, and his legges fettered. Truely this act was strange vnto all men, and like vnto that other of his, to haue burnt his Shippes, and shut himselfe in the midst of his enemies,* 6.324 there to vanquish or to dye. The mischiefe was, that by reason of the vnexpected arriuall of Pamphilo Naruaes at the true crosse, drawing the Country into mutiny, Cortes was forced to absent himselfe from [ 50] Mexico, and to leaue poore Moteçuma in the hands of his companions, who wanted discretion not had not moderation like vnto him: so as they grew to that dissention, as there was no meanes to pacifie it.

When as Cortes was absent from Mexico, he that remayned his Lieutenant,* 6.325 resolued to pu∣nish the Mexicans seuerely, causing a great number of the Nobilitie to be slaine at a maske, which they made in the Palace, the which did so farre exceed, as all the people mutined, and in a fu∣rious rage, tooke Armes to be reuenged and to kill the Spaniards. They therefore besieged them in the Palace, pressing them so neere, that all the hurt the Spaniards could doe them with their Artillerie and Crosse-bowes, might not terrifie them, not force them to retyre from their enter∣prise, [ 60] where they continued many dayes, stopping their victuals, not suffering any one to enter or issue forth. They did fight with stones, and cast Darts after their manner, with a kind of Lan∣ces like vnto Arrowes, in the which there are foure or sixe very sharpe Rasors, the which are such (as the Histories report) that in these warres, an Indian with one blow of these Rasors, al∣most cut off the necke of a Horse, and as they did one day fight with this resolution and furie,* 6.326

the Spaniards to make them cease, shewed forth Moteçuma, with an other of the chiefe Lords of Mexico, vpon the top of a plat-forme of the house, couered with the Targets of two Souldiers that were with them. The Mexicans seeing their Lord Moteçuma, stayed with great silence. Then Moteçuma caused the Lord to aduise them to pacifie themselues, and not to warre against the Spaniards, seeing that (he being a prisoner) it could little profit him. The which being vn∣derstood by a yong man, called Quicuxtemoc, whom they now resolued to make their King, hee spake with a loud voyce to Moteçuma, willing him to retyre like a Villaine, that seeing he had beene such a Coward, as to suffer himselfe to bee taken, they were no more bound to obey him, but rather should punish him as he deserued, calling him Woman for the more reproach, and then he began to draw his Bowe and to shoot at him, and the people began to cast stones at him, and [ 10] to continue their combate. Many say that Moteçuma was then hurt with a stone, whereof hee dyed. The Indians of Mexico affirme the contrarie, and that hee dyed as I will shew hereafter. Aluaro, and the rest of the Spaniards seeing themselues thus pressed, gaue intelligence to Cap∣taine Cortes, of the great danger they were in: who hauing with an admirable dexteritie and va∣lour, giuen order to Naruaes affaires, and assembled the greatest part of his men, hee returned with all speed to succour them of Mexico, where obseruing the time the Indians rest (for it was their custome in warre,* 6.327 to rest euery fourth day) Hee one day aduanced with great policy and courage, so as both he and his men entred the Palace, where as the Spaniards had fortified them∣selues: they then shewed great signes of ioy, in discharging their Artillerie. But as the Mexi∣cans fury increased (being out of hope to defend themselues) Cortes resolued to passe away se∣cretly [ 20] in the night without bruit. Hauing therefore made Bridges to passe two great and dange∣rous passages, about mid-night they issued forth as secretly as they could, the greatest part of his people hauing passed the first bridge, they were discouered by an Indian woman before they could passe the second, who cryed out their enemies fled, at the which voyce all the people ranne together with a horrible furie: so as in passing the second bridge, they were so charged and pur∣sued,* 6.328 as there remayned aboue three hundred men slaine and hurt in one place; where at this day there is a small Hermitage, which they vnproperly call of Martyrs. Many Spaniards (to pre∣serue the gold and jewels which they had gotten) perished, and others staying to carry it away, were taken by the Mexicans, and cruelly sacrificed to their Idols. The Mexicans found King Moteçuma dead, and wounded as they say with Poniards, and they hold opinion that that [ 30] night the Spaniards slue him with other Noblemen. The Marquesse in his Relation sent to the Emperor,* 6.329 writes the contrary, and that the Mexicans killed him that night with a sonne of Mo∣teçuma, which he led with him amongst other Noblemen, saying, that all the treasure of gold, stones, and siluer, fell into the Lake and was neuer more seene. But how soeuer, Moteçuma dyed miserably, and payed his deserts to the iust iudgement of our Lord of Heauen for his pride and tyrannie: his body falling into the Indians power, they would make him no Obsequies of a King, no not of an ordinarie person, but cast it away in great disdaine and rage. A seruant of his hauing pitie of this Kings miserie (who before had beene feared and worshipped as a God) made a fire thereof, and put the ashes in a contemptible place. Returning to the Spaniards that escaped, they were greatly tyred and turmoyled, the Indians following them two or three dayes very reso∣lutely,* 6.330 [ 40] giuing them no time of rest, being so distressed for victuals, as a few graines of Mays were diuided amongst them for their meate. The Relations both of the Spaniards and Indians agree, that God deliuered them here miraculously, the Virgin Mary defending them on a little Hill, whereat this day three leagues from Mexico, there is a Church built in remembrance thereof, called our Lady of succour. They retyred to their ancient friends of Tlascalla, whence (by their aide, and the valour and policy of Cortes) they returned afterwards to make war against Mexi∣co, by Water and Land, with an inuention of Brigantines, which they put into the Lake, where after many combats, and aboue threescore dangerous battailes, they conquered Mexico, on Saint Hippolitus day, the 13. of August, 1521. The last King of the Mexicans (hauing obstinately maintayned the warres) was in the end taken in a great Canoe, whereinto hee fled, who being [ 50] brought with some other of the chiefest Noblemen before Fernando Cortes, this petie King with a strange resolution and courage, drawing his dagger, came neere to Cortes, and said vnto him, Vntill this day I haue done my best indeuour for the defence of my people: now am I no farther bound, but to giue thee this dagger to kill me therewith. Cortes answered, that he would not kill him, nei∣ther was it his intention to hurt them: but their obstinate folly was guiltie of all the miserie and afflictions they had suffered, neither were they ignorant how often he had required peace and a∣mitie at their hands. Hee the commanded them to be intreated curteously. Many strange and admirable things chanced in this Conquest of Mexico: for I neither hold it for an vntruth, nor an addition, which many write, that God fauoured the Spaniards by many miracles.

It is most certaine by the Relations of many, and by the Histories which are written, that in [ 60] diuers battailes which the Spaniards had, as well in New Spaine, as in Peru, the Indians their ene∣mies did see a Horseman in the ayre, mounted on a white horse, with a Sword in his hand, figh∣ting for the Spaniards, whence comes the great reuerence they beare at the Indies to the glorious Apostle Saint Iames. Otherwhiles they did see in some battailes, the Image of our Lady, from

whom the Christians haue receiued in those parts incomparable fauours and benefits, &c. And therefore we ought not to condemne all these things of the first Conquerors of the Indies, as some religious and learned men haue done, doubtlesse with a good zeale, but too much affected. For al∣though for the most part they were couetous men, cruell, and very ignorant in the course that was to be obserued with the Infidels, who had neuer offended the Christians, yet can we not de∣nie, but on their part there was much malice against God and our Men,* 6.331 which forced them to vse rigour and chastisement.

Euery one may vnderstand by the Relation and Discourse I haue written in these Bookes, as well at Peru, as in New Spaine, when as the Christians first set footing, that these Kingdomes [ 10] and Monarchies were come to the height and period of their power. The Inguas of Peru, posses∣sing from the Realme of Chille beyond Quitto, which are a thousand leagues, being most abun∣dant in gold, siluer, sumptuous seruices, and other things: as also in Mexico, Moteçuma com∣manded from the North Ocean Sea, vnto the South, being feared and worshipped not as a man, but rather as a god. Then was it, that the most high Lord had determined that that stone of Daniel, which dissolued the Realmes and Kingdomes of the World, should also dissolue those of this new World.* 6.332 And as the Law of Christ came when as the Roman Monarchie was at her greatnesse: so did it happen at the West Indies, wherein wee see the iust prouidence of our Lord▪ For being then in the World, I meane in Europe, but one head and temporall Lord, as the holy Doctors doe note, whereby the Gospell might more easily bee imparted to so many People and [ 20] Nations: Euen so hath it happened at the Indies, where hauing giuen the knowledge of Christ to the Monarchs of so many Kingdomes, it was a meanes that afterwards the knowledge of the Gospell was imparted to all the people: yea, there is herein a speciall thing to be obserued, that as the Lords of Cusco and Mexico conquered new Lands, so they brought in their owne lan∣guage: for although there were (as at this day) great diuersitie of tongues, yet the Courtly speech of Cusco, did and doth at this day runne aboue a thousand leagues, and that of Mexico did not extend farre lesse, which hath not beene of small importance, but hath much profited in making the preaching easie, at such a time, when as the Preachers had not the gift of many tongues, as in old times. He that would know what a helpe it hath beene for the conuersion of this people in these two great Empires, and the great difficultie they haue found to reduce those Indians to [ 30] Chris•• which acknowledge no Soueraigne Lord, let him goe to Florida, Bresil, the Andes, and many other places, where they haue not preuayled so much by their preaching in fiftie yeeres, as they haue done in Peru and new Spaine in lesse then fiue. If they will impute the cause to the riches of the Country: I will not altogether denie it. Yet were it impossible to haue so great wealth, and to be able to preserue it, if there had not beene a Monarchie. This is also a worke of God in this age, when as the Preachers of the Gospell are so cold and without zeale, and Mer∣chants with the heat of couetousnesse and desire of command, search and discouer new people whither we passe with our commodities; for as Saint Augus••••ne saith, the prophesie of Esay is fulfilled, in that the Church of Christ is extended, not onely to the right hand, but also to the left: which is (as hee declareth) by humane and earthly meanes, which they seeke more com∣monly then Iesus Christ. It was also a great prouidence of our Lord, that when as the first Spa∣niards [ 40] arriued there, they found aide from the Indians themselues, by reason of their partialities and great diuisions.

This is well knowne in Peru, that the diuision betwixt the two brothers Atahualpa and Guas∣ca, the great King Guanacapa their father being newly dead, gaue entrie to the Marquesse Don Francis Pizarre, and to the Spaniards, for that either of them desired his alliance being busied in warre one against the other. The like experience hath beene in new Spaine, that the aide of those of the Prouince of Tlascalla, by reason of their continuall hatred against the Mexicans, gaue the victorie and siegniorie of Mexico, to the M••rquesse Fernando Cortes and his men, and without them it had beene impossible to haue wonne it, yea, to haue maintayned themselues within [ 50] the Country.

They are much deceiued that so little esteeme the Indians, and iudge that (by the aduantage the Spaniards haue ouer them in their Persons, Horses, and Armes, both offensiue and defensiue) they might easily conquer any Land or Nation of the Indies.

Chille stands yet, or to say better, Arauco and Tuecapel, which are two Cities, where our Spaniards could not yet win one foot of ground, although they haue made warre there aboue fiue and twentie yeeres, without sparing of any cost. For this barbarous Nation, hauing once lost the apprehension of horse and shot, and knowing that the Spaniards fall as well as other men, with the blow of a stone or of a dart, they hazard themselues desperately, entring the Pikes vpon any enterprise. How many yeeres haue they leuied men in new Spaine, to send against the [ 60] Chychymequos, which are a small number of naked Indians, armed only with bowes and arrowes? yet to this day they could not be v••••quished, but contrariwise, from day to day they grow more desperate and resolute. But what shall we say of the Chucos, of the Chiraguanas, of the Piscoco∣nes, and all the other people of the Andes? Hath not all the flower of Peru beene there, bringing with them so great prouision of Armes and Men as we haue seene? What did they? With what

victories returned they? Surely, they returned very happy in sauing of their liues, hauing lost their baggage and almost all their horses. Let no man thinke (speaking of the Indians) that they are men of nothing; but if they thinke so, let them goe and make triall. Wee must then attri∣bute the glorie to whom it appertaynes, that is, principally to God, and to his admirable dis∣position: for if Moteçuma in Mexico, and the Ingua in Peru, had beene resolute to resist the Spaniards, and to stop their entrie, Cortes and Pizarre had preuayled little in their landing, al∣though they were excellent Captaines. It hath also beene a great helpe to induce the Indians to receiue the Law of Christ, the subiection they were in to their Kings and Lords, and also the seruitude and slauerie they were held in by the Deuils tyrannies and insupportable yoke. This was an excellent disposition of the diuine Wisedome, the which drawes profit from ill to a good end, and receiues his good from an others ill, which it hath not sowen. It is most certaine that [ 10] no people of the West Indies haue beene more apt to receiue the Gospell, then those which were most subiect to their Lords, and which haue beene charged with the heauiest burthens, as well of Tributes and Seruices, as of Customes and bloudie Practises. All that which the Mexican Kings and those of Peru did possesse, is at this day most planted with Christian Religion, and where there is least difficultie in the Gouernment and Ecclesiasticall Discipline.* 6.333 The Indians were so wearied with the heauy and insupportable yoke of Satans lawes, his sacrifices and ceremonies, whereof wee haue formerly spoken, that they consulted among themselues, to seeke out a new Law, and an other God to serue. And therefore the Law of Christ seemed vnto them, and doth at this day seeme iust, sweet, cleane, good, and full of happinesse.

And that which is difficult in our Law, to beleeue so high and soueraigne Mysteries, hath beene [ 20] easie among them, for that the Deuill had made them comprehend things of greater difficultie, and the selfe-same things which hee had stolen from our Euangelicall Law, as their manner of Communion and Confession, their adoration of Three in One, and such other like, the which a∣gainst the will of the Enemie, haue holpen for the easie receiuing of the Truth by those who be∣fore had embraced Lyes. God is wise and admirable in all his workes, vanquishing the Aduersa∣rie euen with his owne weapon, hee takes him in his owne snare, and kills him with his owne sword. Finally, our God (who had created this People, and who seemed to haue thus long for∣got them) when the houre was come, hee would haue the same Deuils, enemies to mankinde, whom they falsly held for gods; should giue a testimonie against their will, of the true Law, [ 30] the power of Christ, and the triumph of the Crosse, as it plainly appeares by the presages, pro∣phesies, signes, and prodigies, here before mentioned, with many others happened in diuers parts, and that the same ministers of Satan, Sorcerers, Magicians, and other Indians haue con∣fessed it. And wee cannot denie it (being most euident and knowne to all the World) that the Deuill dareth not hisse, and that the Practises, Oracles, Answers, and visible Apparitions, which were so ordinarie throughout all this Infidelitie, haue ceased, whereas the Crosse of Christ hath beene planted, where there are Churches, and where the Name of Christ hath beene confessed. And if there be at this day any cursed minister of his, that doth participate thereof, it is in Caues, and on the tops of Mountaines, and in secret places, farre from the name and communion of Christians. The Soueraigne Lord be blessed for his great mercies, and for the glorie of his holy [ 40] Name; And in truth, if they did gouerne this people temporally and spiritually, in such sort as the Law of Iesus Christ hath set it downe, with a milde yoke and light burthen, and that they would impose no more vpon them then they can well beare, as the Letters Patents of the good Emperour of happy memorie doe command, and that they would imploy halfe the care they haue to make profit of these poore mens sweats and labours, for the health of their soules, it were the most peaceable and happy Christian part of all the World, &c.

CHAP. V. [ 50] Of the ancient superstitions of the Mexicans and Indians of America, gathered out of the fifth Booke of IOSEPHVS ACOSTA.

FIrst, although the darknesse of Infidelitie holdeth these Nations in blindnesse, yet in many things the light of Truth and Reason workes somewhat in them. And they commonly acknowledge a supreme Lord and Author of all things, which they of Peru called Vnachocha, and gaue him names of great excellence, as Pa∣chacamac,* 6.334 or Pachayachachic, which is, the Creator of Heauen and Earth: and V∣sapu, which is, admirable, and other like names. Him they did worship, as the [ 60] chiefest of all, whom they did honor in beholding the Heauen. The like wee see amongst them of Mexico, and China, and all other Infidels. Which accordeth well with that which is said of Saint Paul, in the Acts of the Apostles, where he did see the Inscription of an Altar; Ignoto Deo:

to the vnknowne God. Whereupon the Apostle tooke occasion to preach vnto them, saying, Hee whom you worship without knowing, him doe I preach vnto you. In like sort,* 6.335 those which at this day doe preach the Gospell to the Indians, finde no great difficultie to perswade them that there is a High God and Lord ouer all, and that this is the Christians God, and the true God. And yet it hath caused great admiration in mee, that although they had this knowledge, yet had they no proper Name for God,* 6.336 if wee shall seeke into the Indian tongue for a word to answere to this Name of God, as in Latin, De••s; in Greeke, Theos; in Hebrew, El▪ in Arabike, Alla; but we shall not finde any in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or Mexican tongues. So as such as preach or write to the Indi∣ans, vse our Spanish name Dios, fitting it to the accent or pronunciation of the Indian tongues, the which differ much, whereby appeares the small knowledge they had of God, seeing they cannot [ 10] so much as name him, if it be not by our very name▪ yet in truth they had some little know∣ledge, and therefore in P••ru they made him a rich Temple, which they called Pachacamac, which was the principall Sanctuarie o•• the Realme. And as it hath beene said, this word of Pachaca∣mac, is as much to say, as the Creator, yet in this Temple they vsed their Idolatries; worshipping the Deuill and Figures. They likewise made Sacrifices and Offerings to Viracocha, which held the chiefe place amongst the worships which the Ki••g•• Iugu•••• made. Hereof they called the Spaniards Vir••cochas, for that they hold opinion they are the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of H••auen, and diui••e▪ e••en as others did attribute a Deitie to Paul and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 calling the one Iupiter,* 6.337 and the other Mer∣curie, so would they offer sacrifices vnto them, as vnto gods and as the Barbarians of M••∣lit•• [ 20] (which is Maltè) seeing that the Viper did not hu•••• the Apostle, they called him God.

NExt to Viracocha, or their supreme God,* 6.338 that which most commonly they haue and doe adore amongst the Infidels, is the Sunne; and after, those things which are most remark••∣able in the celestiall or ••lementarie nature, as the Mo••ne, Starres, Sea, and Land. The Gui••cas, or Oratories, which the I••guas Lords of Peru had in greatest reuerence, next to Viracocha and the Sunne, was the Thunder, which they called by three diuers names, Ch••••••••illa, Catuill••, and I••tiillapa, supposing it to be a man in heauen, with a Sling and a Mace, and that it is in his power to cause Raine, Haile, Thunder, and all the rest that appertaines to the Region of the Aire, where the Cloudes engender. It was a Guac•• (for so they called their Oratories) generall to all the In∣dians [ 30] of Peru, offering vnto him many sacrifices: and in C••sc••, which is the Court and Metro∣politan Citie, they did sacrifice children vnto him, as to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. They did worship these three, Viracocha, the Sunne, and Thunder, after another manner then all the rest, as P••llo writes, who had made triall thereof, they did put as it were a Gantlet or Gloue vpon their hands, when they did lift them vp to worship them. They did worship the Earth; which they called Pacha••a••a, as the Ancients did the goddesse Tellus: and the Sea likewise, which they call Mamacocha, as the Ancients worshipped Thetis, or Neptune. Moreouer, they did worship the 〈…〉〈…〉, which were the Armes and Blazons of the Ingua, with two Snakes stretched out on either side. A∣mongst the Starres they all did commonly worship that which they called Col••a, and wee here Cabrille. They did attribute diuers offices to diuers Starres, and those which had neede of their [ 40] fauour did worship them, as the Shepherd did sacrifice to a Starre, which they called Vrcuhillay, which they hold to be a Sheepe of diuers colours, hauing the care to preserue their Cattell; and they imagine it is that which the Astronomers call Lyra. These Shepherds worship two other Starres, which walke neere vnto them, they call them Catuchillay, and Vrcuchillay; and they fayne them to be an Ewe and a Lambe. Others worshipped a Starre which they called Macha∣cuay, to which they attribute the charge and power ouer Serpents, and Snakes, to keepe them from hurting of them. They ascribe power to another Starre, which they called Ch••g••i••chin∣chay (which is as much as Tigre) ouer Tigres, Beares, and Lions, and they haue generally belee∣ued, that of all the beasts of the earth, there is one alone in heauen like vnto them, the which hath care of their procreation and increase. And so they did obserue and worship diuers Starres, as those [ 50] which they called Chacana, Topatarca, Mam••••an, Mirco, Miquiquicay, and many other. So as it seemed they approched somwhat neere the propositions of Platoes Idees. The Mexicans almost in the same manner after the supreme God, worshipped the S••nne: And therefore they called H••rnando Cortez (as he hath written in a Letter sent vnto the Emperor Charles the fifth) S••nne of the Sunne, for his care and courage to compasse the Earth.* 6.339 But they made their greatest adora∣tion to an Idoll, called Vitzliputzli, the which in all this Region they called the most puiffant, and Lord of all things: for this cause the Mexicans built him a Temple, the greatest, the fairest,* 6.340 the highest, and the most sumptuous of all other. The situation and beautie thereof, may well be conjectured by the ruines which yet remaine in the midst of the Citie of Mexico. But here the Mexicans Idolatrie hath beene more pernicious and hurtfull then that of the I••guas, as wee shall [ 60] see playner hereafter, for that the greatest part of their adoration and Idolatrie, was imployed to Idols, and not to naturall things, although they did attribute naturall effects to these Idols, as Raine, multiplication of Cattell, Warre, and Generation, euen as the Greekes and Latines haue for∣ged Idols of Phoebus, Mercurie, Iupiter, Minerua, and of Mars. To conclude, who so shall neerly looke into it, shall finde this manner which the Deuill hath vsed to deceiue the Indians,

to be the same wherewith he hath deceiued the Greekes and Romans, and other ancient Gen∣tiles,* 6.341 giuing them to vnderstand that these notable creatures, the Sunne, Moone, Starres, and E∣lements, had power and authority to doe good or harme to men. Their manner to pray to Vira∣cocha, to the Sunne, the Starres, and the rest of their Idols, was to open their hands, and to make a certaine sound with their mouthes (like people that kissed) and to aske that which euery one desired in offering his Sacrifices; yet was there great difference betwixt the words they vsed in speaking to the great Tici••iracocha, to whom they did attribute the chiefe power and commandement ouer all things, and those they vsed to others, the which euery one did worshippe priuately in his house, as Gods or particu∣lar Lords, saying, that they were their Intercessors to this great Ticciuiracocha. This manner [ 10] oof worship, opening the hands, and as it were * 6.342 kissing, hath something like to that which Iob had in horrour, as fit for Idolaters, saying, If I haue kissed my hands with my mouth, be∣holding the Sunne when it shines, or the Moone when it is light, the which is a great iniquitie, and to deny the most great God.

* 6.343THe Deuill hath not beene contented to make these blinde Indians to worshippe the Sunne, Moone, Starres, Earth, and Sea, and many other generall things in nature, but he hash pas∣sed on further, giuing them for God, and making them subiect to base and abiect things, and for the most part, filthy and infamous: for they worshipped Riuers, Fountaines, the mouthes of Riuers, entries of Mountaines, Rockes or great Stones, Hils and the tops of Mountaines, which they call Apachitas, and they hold them for matters of great deuotion. To conclude, they did worship [ 20] all things in nature, which seemed to them remarkable and different from the rest, as acknowledg∣ing some particular deitie.

These shewed me in Caxamalca of Nasca a little hill or great mount of Sand, which was the chiefe Idoll or Guaca of the Ancients. I demaunded of them what diuinity they found in it? They answered, that they did worship it for the wonder, being a very high mount of Sand, in the midst of very thicke Mountaines of Stone. We had neede in the Citie of Kings, of great store of great wood; for the melting of a Bell, and therefore they cut downe a great deformed Tree, which for the greatnesse and antiquity thereof had beene a long time the Oratorie and Guaca of the Indians. And they beleeued there was a certaine Diuinity in any thing that was [ 30] extraordinary and strange in his kinde, attributing the like vnto small Stones and Mettals; yea vnto rootes and fruites of the earth, as the rootes they call Papas. There is a strange kinde which they call Lallahuas, which they kissed and worshipped. They did likewise worship Beares, Ly∣ons, Tygres and Snakes, to thend they should not hurt them: and such as their gods be, such are the things they offer vnto them in their worship. They haue vsed as they goe by the way, to caft, in the crosse wayes, on the hils, and toppes of Mountaines, which they call Apachitta••, olde shooes, Feathers, and Coca chewed, being an hearbe they vse much. And when they haue no∣thing left,* 6.344 they cast a Stone as an offring, that they might passe freely, and haue greater force, the which they say increaseth by this meanes, as it is reported in a prouinciall Counsell of Pe∣ru. And therefore they finde in the hie-waies great heapes of Stones offred, and such other things. They vsed another offring no lesse pleasant and ridiculous, pulling the haire from the [ 40] eyebrowes to offer it to the Sunne, Hils, Apachittas, to the Windes, or to any other thing they feare. Such is the miseries that many Indians haue liued in, and doe to this day, whom the De∣uill doth abuse like very Babes, with any foolish illusion whatsoeuer.

They report of one of the Kings Inguis, a man of a subtile spirit, who (seeing that all his pre∣decessours had worshipped the Sunne) said, that he did not take the Sunne to be God, neither could it be, for that God was a great Lord, who with great quiet and leasure performed his workes, and that the Stone doth neuer cease his course, saying, that the thing which laboured so much could not seeme to be God.

* 6.345They came to the height of Idolatry by the same meanes the Scripture maketh mention of: [ 50] first they had a care to keepe the bodies of their Kings and Noblemen whole, from any ill scent or corruption aboue two hundred yeeres. In this sort were their Kings Inguas in Cusco, euery one in his Chappell and Oratory, so as the Marquesse of Canette beeing Viceroy, to root out I∣dolatry, caused three or foure of their Gods to be drawne out and carried to the Citie of Kings, which bred a great admiration, to see these bodies (dead so many yeeres before) remayne so faire and also whole. Euery one of these Kings Inguas left all his Treasure and Reuenues, to enter∣tayne the place of worship where his body was laid, and there were many Ministers with all his Family dedicated to his seruice: for no King Successor did vsurpe the Treasure•• and Plate of his Peedecessor, but he did gather all new for himselfe, and his Palace. They were not content with this Idolatry to dead bodies, but also they made their figures and representations: and eue∣ry King in his life time caused a figure to be made wherein he was represented, which they cal∣led [ 60] Guaoigui, which signifieth Brother, for that they should doe to this Image, during his life and death, as much honour and reuerence as to himselfe. They carried this Image to the warres, and in procession for raine or faire weather, making sundry Feasts and Sacrifices vnto them. There haue

beene many of these Idols in Cusco, and in that Territory, but now they say that this Super∣stition of worshipping of stones hath altogether ceased, or for the most part, after they had beene discouered by the diligence of the Licentiate Pollo, and the first was that of the Inguas Ro∣cha, chiefe of the faction or race of Hanam Cusco. And we find that among other Nations they had in great estimation and reuerence the bodies of their Predecessors, and did likewise worship their Images.

THe Indians of Peru beleeued commonly that the Soules liued after this life, and that the good were in glorie, and the bad in paine;* 6.346 so as there is little difficultie to perswade them to [ 10] these Articles. But they are not yet come to the knowledge of that point, that the bodies should rise with the Soules. And therefore they did vse a wonderfull care, as it is said, to preserue the bodies which they honoured after death: to this end their Successors gaue them Garments, and made Sacrifices vnto them, especially the Kings Inguas, being accompanied at their Funerals, with a great number of seruants and women for his seruice in the other life: and therefore on the day of his decease, they did put to death the woman he had loued best, his Seruants and Officers, that they might serue him in the other life.

When as the Guanacapa dyed (who was father to Atagualpa, at what time the Spaniards en∣tred) they put to death aboue a thousand persons of all ages and conditions,* 6.347 for his seruice to ac∣company him in the other life, after many songs and drunkennesse they slew them; and these [ 20] that were appointed to death, held themselues happy. They did sacrifice many things vnto them, especially yong children, and with the bloud they made a stroake on the dead mans face, from one eare to the other. This superstition and inhumanity, to kill both men and women, to accompany and serue the dead in the other life, hath beene followed by others, and is at this day vsed amongst some other barbarous Nations. And as Pollo w••ites, it hath beene in a manner ge∣nerall throughout all the Indies. The reuerent Beda reports,* 6.348 that before the Englishmen were conuerted to the Gospell, they had the same custome, to kill men to accompany and serue the dead. It is written of a Portugall, who being captiue among the Barbarians, had beene hurt with a dart, so as he lost one eye, and as they would haue sacrificed him to accompany a Nobleman that was dead, he said vnto them, that those that were in the other life, would [ 30] make small account of the dead, if they gaue him a blinde man for a companion; and that it were better to giue him an attendant that had both his eyes. This reason being found good by the Barbarians, they let him goe. Besides this superstition of sacrificing men to the dead, being vsed but to great Personages, there is another farre more generall and common in all the Indies, which is, to set meate and drinke vpon the graue of the dead, imagining they did feede thereon: the which hath likewise beene an errour amongst the Auncients, as Saint Austine writes, and therefore they gaue them meate and drinke. At this day many Indian Infidels, do secretly draw their dead out of the Churchyard, and bury them on hils, or vpon passages of Mountaines, or else in their owne houses. They haue also vsed to put Gold and Siluer in their mouth, hands, and bosome, and to apparell them with new Garments durable, and well lined vnder the [ 40] herse. They beleeue that the soules of the dead wandred vp and downe and indure cold,* 6.349 thirst, hunger and trauel, and for this cause they make their anniuersaries, carrying them cloathes, meate and drinke.

HAuing reported what many Nations of Peru haue done with their dead,* 6.350 it shall not be from the purpose, to make particular mention of the Mexicans in this point, whose mortuaries were much solemnised, and full of notable follies. It was the office of the Priests and religious of Mexico (who liued there with a strange obseruance, as shall be said hereafter) to interre the dead, and doe their obsequies. The places where they buried them, was in their Gardens, and in the Courts of their owne houses: others carried them to the places of sacrifices which were [ 50] done in the Mountaines: others burnt them, and after buried the ashes in their Temples; and they buried them all, with whatsoeuer they had, of Apparell, Stones and Iewels. They did put the ashes of such as were burnt into pots, and with them, the Iewels, Stones, and Eare∣rings of the dead, how rich and precious soeuer. They did sing the Funerall offices, like to answeres, and did often lift vp the dead bodies, doing many ceremonies. At these mortuaries they did eate and drinke; and if it were a person of quality, they gaue apparell to all such as came to the interment. When any one dyed, they laid him open in a chamber, vntill that all his kins∣folks and friends were come, who brought presents vnto the dead, and saluted him as if he were liuing. And if he were a King or Lord of some towne, they offered him slaues to be put to death with him, to the end they might serue him in the other world. They likewise put to death his [ 60] Priest, or Chaplaine (for euery Nobleman had a Priest which administred these ceremonies with∣in his house) and then they called him, that he might execute his office with the dead.* 6.351 They likewise killed his Cook, his Butler, his Dwarfes, and deformed men, by whom he was most ser∣ued: neither did they spare the very brothers, of the dead, who had most serued them: for it was a greatnesse amongst the Noblemen, to be serued by their brethren and the rest. Finally, they

put to death all of his traine, for the entertaining of his house in the other world: and lest po∣uerty should oppresse them, they buried with them much wealth, as Gold, Siluer, Stones, Curtins of exquisite worke, Bracelets of Gold, and other rich peeces. And if they burned the dead, they vsed the like with all his Seruants, and ornaments they gaue him for the other world. Then tooke they all the ashes they buried with very great solemnity. The obsequies continued tenne dayes with songs of plaints and lamentations, and the Priests carried away the dead with so many ce∣remonies, and in so great number, as they could scarce accompt them. To the Captaines and No∣blemen they gaue trophees and markes of honour, according to their enterprises and valor im∣ployed in the wars and gouernments; for this effect they had armes and particular blasons. They carried these markes or blazons to the place where he desired to be buried or burnt, marching be∣fore the body, and accompanying it, as it were in procession, where the Priests and officers of the [ 10] Temple went with diuers furnitures and ornaments, some casting incense, others singing, and some sounding of mournfull Flutes and Drums, which did much increase the sorrow of his kins∣folkes and subiects. The Priest who did the office was decked with the markes of the Idoll which the Nobleman had represented; for all Noblemen did represent Idols, and carried the name of some one; and for this occasion they were esteemed and honoured. The order of Knighthood did commonly carry these foresaid markes. He that should be burnt, being brought to the place ap∣pointed, they inuironed him with wood of Pine trees, and all his baggage, then set they fire vn∣to it, increasing it still with goomie wood, vntill that all were conuerted into ashes, then came there forth a Priest attired like a Deuil, hauing mouthes vpon euery ioynt of him, and many eyes of glasse, holding a great staffe, with the which he did mingle all the ashes very boldly, and with [ 20] so terrible a gesture, as he terrified all the assistants. Sometimes this Minister had other different habits, according to the quality of the dead.

* 6.352There hath beene great curiosity at the Indies in making of Idols and Pictures of diuers formes and matters, which they worshipped for Gods, and in Peru they called them Guacas, being commonly of foule and deformed beasts, at the least, such as I haue seene, were so. I beleeue verily that the Deuill, in whose honour they made these Idols, was pleased to cause himselfe to be worshipped in these deformities, and in truth it was found so, that the Deuill spake and answered many of these Guacas or Idols, and his Priests and Ministers came to these Oracles of the father of lies, and such as he is, such were his Counsels and Prophe∣sies. [ 30] In the Prouinces of New Spaine, Mexico, Tescuco, Tlascalla, Cholula, and in the neighbour Countries to this Realme, this kinde of Idolatry hath beene more practised than in any other Realme of the world. And it is a prodigious thing to heare the superstitions rehearsed that they haue vsed in that point, of the which it shall not be vnpleasant to speake something. The chiefest Idoll of Mexico was, as I haue said Vit••iliputzli. It was an image of wood like to a man, set vpon a stoole of the color of azure, in a brankard or litter, at euery corner was a piece of wood in forme of a Serpents head. The stoole signified that he was set in heauen: this Idoll had all the forehead Azure, and had a band of Azure vnder the nose from one eare to another: vpon his head he had a rich plume of Feathers, like to the beake of a small Bird, the which was couered on the top with Gold burnished very browne: he had in his left hand a white Target, with the figures [ 40] of fiue pine Apples, made of white Feathers, set in a crosse: and from aboue issued forth a crest of gold, and at his sides he had foure darts, which (the Mexicans say) had beene sent from heauen to doe those acts and prowesses which shall be spoken of: In his right hand he had an Azured staffe, cut in fashion of a wauing snake. All these ornaments with the rest he had, carried this sence as the Mexicans doe shew the name of Vitziliputzli signifies the left hand of a shining Feather.

I will speake hereafter of the proud Temple, the Sacrifices, Feasts and Ceremonies of this great Idoll, being very notable things. But at this present we will onely shew, that this Idoll thus richly apparelled and deckt, was set vpon an high Altar, in a small peece or boxe, well couered with linnen cloathes, Iewels, Feathers, and ornaments of Gold, with many run••les of Feathers, the fairest and most exquisite that could be found: he had alwaies a curtaine before him for the greater veneration. Ioyning to the chamber or chappell of this Idoll, there was a peece of lesse [ 50] worke, and not so well beautified, where there was another Idoll they called Tlaloc. These two Idols were alwaies together, for that they held them as companions, and of equall power. There was another Idoll in Mexico much esteemed,* 6.353 which was the god of repentance, and of Iubilies and pardons for their sinnes. They called this Idoll Tezcallipuca, he was made of a blacke shining stone like to Iayel, being attired with some Gentile deuises after their manner; it had earerings of gold and siluer, and through the nether lip a small canon of Christall, in length halfe a foote: in the which they sometimes put a greene feather, and sometimes an azured, which made it resemble sometimes an Emerald, and sometimes a Turquois: it had the haire broided and bound vp with a haire-lace of gold burnished, at the end whereof did hang an ••a••e of gold, with two firebrands of smoake painted therein, which did signifie the praiers of the afflicted and sinners that he [ 60] heard, when they recommended themselues vnto him. Betwixt the two eares hanged a num∣ber of small herons. He had a Iewell hanging at his necke, so great that it couered all his sto∣macke: vpon his armes bracelets of Gold; at his nauill a rich greene stone▪ and in his left hand a

••a••ne of precious Feathers, of Greene, Azure, and Yellow, which came forth of a Looking-glasse of Gold, shining and well burnished, and that signified, that within this Looking-glasse he saw whatsoeuer was done in the world. They called this Glasse or Chaston of gold Ir••••ich••aya which signifies his Glasse for to looke in. In his right hand be held foure darts, which signified the chastisement he gaue to the wicked for their sinnes. And therefore▪ they feared this Idoll most, least he should discouer their faults and offences. At his feast they had pardon of their sinnes, which was made euery foure yeares, as shall be declared hereafter. They held this I∣doll Tescatlipuca for the god of drought, of famine, barrennesse and pestilence:* 6.354 And therefore they painted him in another forme, being set in great maiesty vpon a stoole compassed in with a red Curtin, painted and wrought with the heads and bones of dead men. In the left hand it had a [ 10] Target with fiue Pines, like vnto pine Apples of Cotton: and in the right a little dare with a threatning countenance, and the arme stretcht out, as if he would cast it;* 6.355 and from the Target came foure darts. It had the countenance of an angry man, and in choller, the body all painted blacke, and the head full of Quailes feathers. They vsed great superstition to this Idoll, for the feare they had of it. In Cholu••a which is a Commonwealth of Mexico, they worshipt a famous Idoll which was the god of Merchandise, being to this day greatly giuen to trafficke. They cal∣led it Quetzaalcoalt.

This Idoll was in a great place in a Temple very high: it had about it, Gold, Siluer, Iewels, very rich Feathers, and habits of diuers colours. It had the forme of a man, but the visage of a lit∣tle [ 20] Bird, with a red bill; and aboue a combe full of warts, hauing rankes of teeth,* 6.356 and the tongue hanging out. It carried vpon the head, a pointed myter of painted paper, a sithe in the hand, and many toyes of gold on the legges; with a thousand other foolish inuentions, whereof all had their significations, and they worshipt it, for that he enriched whom he pleased, as Memnon and Plu∣tus. In truth this name which the Cho••uanos gaue to their god, was very fit, although they vn∣derstood it not: they called it Quetzaalcoalt, signifying colour of a rich Feather, for such is the de∣uill of couetousnesse. These barbarous people contented not themselues to haue gods onely, but they had goddesses also, as the Fables of Poets haue brought in, and the blinde gentility of the Greekes and Romans worshipt them. The chiefe goddesse they worshipt was called Tozi, which is to say, our Grandmother, who as the Histories of Mexico report,* 6.357 was daughter to the King of [ 30] Culhuacan, who was the first they stayed by the commandement of Vitzliputzli,* 6.358 whom they sacri∣ficed in this sort, being his sister; and then they began to stay men in their sacrifices, and to clothe the liuing with the skins of the sacrificed, hauing learned that their gods were pleased therwith∣as also to pul the hearts out of them they sacrificed, which they learned of their god, who pulled out the hearts of such as he punished in Tulla, as shall be said in his place. One of these goddesses they worshipt had a son, who was a great hunter, whom they of Tlascalla afterwards tooke for a god, and those were enemies to the Mexicans, by whose aide the Spaniards won Mexico. The Prouince of Tlascalla is very fit for hunting, and the people are much giuen therunto. They ther∣fore made a great feast vnto this Idoll, whom they painted of such a forme, as it is not now need∣full to loose any time in the description thereof. The feast they made was pleasant, and in this [ 40] sort: They sounded a Trumpet at the breake of day, at the sound whereof they all assembled with their Bowes, Arrows, Nets, and other instruments for hunting: then they went in proces∣sion with their Idoll, being followed by a great number of people to a high Mountaine, vpon the top whereof they had made a bower of leaues, and in the middest thereof an Altar richly deckt, where-vpon they placed the Idoll. They marched with a great bruit of Trumpets, Cor∣nets, Flutes & Drums, and being come vnto the place, they inuironed this Mountain on all sides, putting fire to it on all parts: by meanes whereof many beasts flew forth, as Stags, Conies, Hares, Foxes, and Woolues, which went to the top flying from the fire. These hunters followed after with great cries and noise of diuers instruments, hunting them to the top before the Idoll, whi∣ther fled such a number of beasts, in so great a presse, that they leaped one vpon another, vpon [ 50] the people, and vpon the Altar, wherein they tooke great delight. Then tooke they a great num∣ber of these beasts, and sacrificed them before the Idoll, as Stagges and other great beasts, pulling out their hearts, as they vse in the sacrifice of men, and with the like ceremony: which done, they tooke all their prey vpon their shoulders, and retired with their Idoll in the same manner as they came, and entered the City laden with all these things, very ioyfull, with great store of musick, Trumpets, and Drums, vntill they came to the Temple, where they placed their Idoll with great reuerence and solemnity. They presently went to prepare their venison, wherewith they made a banquet to all the people; and after dinner they made their playes, representations, and dances before the Idoll. They had a gr••at number of other Idols, of gods and goddesses;* 6.359 but the chiefe were of the Mexican Nation, and the neighbour people as is said.

[ 60]

AS we haue said that the Kings Inguas of Peru caused Images to be made to their likenesse,* 6.360 which they called their Guacos or brothers, causing them for to be honored like themselues: euen so the Mexicans haue done of their gods, which was in this sort. They tooke a captiue, such as they thought good, & afore they did sacrifice vnto him their Idols; they gaue him the name of

the Idoll, to whom he should be sacrificed, and apparelled him with the same ornaments like their Idoll, saying, that he did represent the same Idoll. And during the time that this repre∣sentation lasted, which was for a yeare in some Feasts, in others six moneths, and in others lesse: they reuerenced and worshipped him in the same manner, as the proper Idoll; and in the meane time he did eate, drinke, and was merry. When he went through the streetes, the people came forth to worship him, and euery one brought him an almes, with children and sicke folkes, that he might cure them, and blesse them, suffering him to doe all things at his pleasure, onely he was accompanied with ten or twelue men lest he should flye. And he (to the end he might be reuerenced as he passed) sometimes sounded vpon a small Flute, that the people might prepare to worship him. The feast being come, and he growne fat, they killed him, opened him, and eate [ 10] him, making a solemne sacrifice of him. It followes that we treat•• of their Religion, or rather Superstition, which they vse in their Sacrifices, Temples, Ceremonies, and the rest.

That which God by his wisedome hath decreed for his honour and seruice, and for the good and health of man,* 6.361 the Deuill striues to imitate and to peruert, to be honored, and to cause man to be damned: for as we see the great God hath Sacrifices, Priests, Sacraments, Religious Pro∣phets, and Ministers, dedicated to his diuine Seruice and holy ceremonies: so the Deuill hath his Sacrifices, Priests, his kindes of Sacraments, his Ministers appointed, his secluded and fained holi∣nesse, with a thousand sorts of false Prophets.

BEginning then with their Temples, euen as the great God would haue a house dedicated, [ 20] where his holy name might be honoured, and that it should be particularly vowed to his seruice; euen so the Deuill, by his wicked practises, perswaded Infidels to build him proud Temples▪* 6.362 and particular Oratories and Sanctuaries. In euery Prouince of Peru, there was one principall Guaca, or house of adoration; and besides it, there was one Generall throughout all the Kingdome of the Inguas; among the which there hath beene two famous and notable, the one which they called Pachamana, is foure leagues from Lima, where at this day they see the ruines of a most auncient and great building, out of the which Francis Pizarre and his people drew infinite treasure, of vessels and pots of Gold and Siluer, which they brought when they tooke the Ingua Altagualpa. There are certaine memories and discourses which say, that in this Temple the Deuill did speake visibly, and gaue answers by his Oracle, and that sometimes [ 30] they did see a spotted Snake: and it was a thing very common and approued at the Indies, that the Deuill spake and answered in these false Sanctuaries deceiuing this miserable people. But where the Gospell is entred, and the Crosse of Christ planted, the father of lyes becomes mute, as Plutarch writes of his time,* 6.363 Cur cessauerit Pithias fundere oracula: and Iustine Martyr treates amply of the silence which Christ imposed to Deuils, which spake by Idols, as it had beene be∣fore much prophesied of in the holy Scripture. The manner which the Infidell Ministers and In∣chanters had to consult with their gods, was as the Deuill had taught them. It was commonly in the night, they entred backward to their Idoll, and so went bending their bodies and head, af∣ter an vgly manner, and so they consulted with him. The answere he made, was commonly like vnto a fearefull hissing, or to a gnashing which did terrifie them; and all that he did aduer∣tise [ 40] or command them, was but the way to their perdition and ruine. There are few of these Oracles found now, through the mercy of God, and great power of Iesus Christ. There hath beene in Peru another Temple and Oratory, most esteemed, which was in the Citie of Cusco, where at this day is the Monastery of Saint Dominicke. We may see it hath beene a goodly and a stately worke, by the pauement and stones of the building, which remaine to this day. This Temple was like to the Pantheon of the Romans, for that it was the house and dwelling of all the gods; for the Kings Inguas did there behold the gods of all the Nations and Prouinces they had conquered, euery Idoll hauing his priuate place, whither they of that Prouince came to wor••hip it with an excessiue charge of things which they brought for his seruice. And thereby they supposed to keepe safely in obedience, those Prouinces which they had conquered, holding [ 50] their gods, as it were in hostage. In this same house was the Pinchao, which was an Idoll of the Sunne, of most fine Gold, wrought with great riches of Stones, the which was placed to the East, with so great Art, as the Sunne at his rising did cast his beames thereon: and as it was of most fine mettall, his beames did reflect with such a brightnesse, that it seemed another Sunne. The Inguas did worship this for their god, and the Pachayacha, which signifies the Creator of Heauen. They say, that at the spoile of this so rich a Temple, a Souldier had for his part this goodly plate of gold of the Sunne. And as play was then in request, he lost it all in one night at play, whence came the prouerbe they haue in Peru for great gamesters, saying, that they play the Sunne before it riseth.

[ 60]

THe Superstitions of the Mexicans, haue without comparison beene greater then the rest, as well in their ceremonies,* 6.364 as in the greatnesse of their Temples, the which in old time the Spaniards called by this word Cu, which word might by taken from the Ilanders of Saint Do∣minique, or of Cuba, as many other words that are in vse, the which are neither from Spaine,

nor from any other language now vsuall among the Indians, as is Mays, Chico, Vaq••ian••, Chape∣t••n, and other like. There was in Mexico, this Cu, the famous Temple of Vitzliputzli, it had a very great circuit, and within a faire Court. It was built of great stones, in fashion of Snakes tyed one to another, and the circuit was called Coatepantli, which is, a circuit of Snakes: vpon the top of euery Chamber and Oratorie where the Idols were, was a fine Pillar wrought with small stones, blacke as jeat, set in goodly order, the ground raysed vp with white and red, which below gaue a great light. Vpon the top of the Pillar were battlements very artificially made, wrought like Snailes, supported by two Indians of stone, sitting, holding Candle-sticks in their hands, the which were like Croisants garnished and enriched at the ends, with yellow and greene [ 10] feathers and long fringes of the same. Within the circuit of this Court, there were many Cham∣bers of religious men, and others that were appointed for the seruice of the Priests and Popes, for so they call the soueraigne Priests which serue the Idoll. This Court is so great and spacious,* 6.365 as eight or ten thousand persons did dance easily in round, holding hands, the which was an vsuall custome in that Realme, although it seeme to many incredible.

There were foure Gates or Entries, at the East, West, North, and South; at euery one of these Gates began a faire Cawsey of two or three leagues long. There was in the midst of the Lake where the Citie of Mexico is built, foure large Cawseys in crosse, which did much beautifie it; vpon euery Portall or Entrie, was a God or Idoll, hauing the visage turned to the Cawsey, right against the Temple gate of Vitzliputzli. There were thirtie steps of thirtie fathome long, and [ 20] they diuided from the circuit of the Court by a street that went betwixt them; vpon the top of these steps there was a walke of thirtie foot broad, all playstered with chalke, in the midst of which walke was a Pallisado artificially made of very high Trees, planted in order a fathome one from another. These Trees were very bigge, and all pierced with small holes from the foote to the top, and there were rods did run from one Tree to another, to the which were chayned or tyed many dead mens heads. Vpon euery rod were twentie Sculls, and these rankes of Sculls continue from the foot to the top of the Tree. This Pallisado was full of dead mens Sculls from one end to the other, the which was a wonderfull mournfull sight and full of horror. These were the heads of such as had beene sacrificed▪ for after they were dead, and had eaten the flesh, the head was deliuered to the Ministers of the Temple, which tyed them in this sort vntill they [ 30] fell off by morsels; and then had they a ••are to se•• others in their places. Vpon the top of the Temple were two Stones or Chappels, and in them were the two Idols, which I haue spoken of, Vitziliputzli, and his companion Tlal••••. These Chappels were carued and grauen very artificial∣ly, and so high, that to ascend vp to it, there was a staire of stone of sixscore steps. Before these Chambers or Chappels, there was a Court of fortie foot square, in the midst whereof, was a high stone of fiue hand breadth, pointed in fashion of a Pyramide, it was placed there for the sacrifi∣cing of men; for being laid on their backs, it made their bodies to bend, and so they did open them and pull out their hearts, as I shall shew hereafter. There were in the Citie of Mexico, eight or nine other Temples, the which were ioyned one to another within one great circuit, and had their priuate Stayres, their Courts, their Chambers, and their Dortoires. The entries of [ 40] some were to the East, some to the West, others to the South, and some to the North. All these Temples were curiously wrought, and compassed in with diuers sorts of Battlements and Pi∣ctures, with many figures of stones, being accompanyed and fortified with great and large Spurres or Plat-formes. They were didicated to diuers gods: but next to the Temple of Vitzi∣liputzli, was that of Tescalipuca, which was the god of Penance and of Punishments, very high and well built.

There were four steps to ascend: on the top was a Flat or Table of sixscore foot broad, and ioy∣ning vnto it was a Hall hanged with Tapistrie and Curtins of diuers colours and workes. The Doore thereof being low and large, was alwayes couered with a vaile, and none but the Priests might enter in. All this Temple was beautified with diuers Images and Pictures most curiously; [ 50] for that these two Temples were as the Cathedrall Churches; and the rest in respect of them as Parishes and Her••••••••ges: they were so spacious, and had so many Chambers, that there were in them places for the Ministerie, Colleges, Schooles, and Houses for Priests, whereof wee will intreat hereafter.

The Deuil counter••ai••ing the vse of the Church of God, hath placed in the order of his Priests,* 6.366 some greater or superiors, and some lesse, the one as Acolites, the other as Leuites, and that which hath made me most to wonder, was, that the Deuill would vsurpe to himselfe the seruice of God; yea, and vse the same name: for the Mexicans in their ancient tongue called their high Priests P••p••s, as they should say Soueraigne Bishops, as it appeares now by their Histories. The Priests of Vitzliputzli succeeded by Linages of certaine quarters of the Citie, deputed for that [ 60] purpose, and those of other Idols came by election, or being offered to the Temple in their infan∣cie. The daily exercise of the Priests was to cast Incense on the Idols, which was done foure times in the space of a naturall day. The first at breake of day, the second at noone, the third at Sunne setting, and the fourth at mid-night. At mid-night all the chiefe officers of the Temple did rise, and in stead of Bells, they sounded a long time vpon Trumpets, Cornets, and Flutes

very heauily, which being ended, he that did the office that weeke, stept forth, attyred in a white Robe after the Dalmatike manner, with a Censor in his hand full of coal••s, which ••ee tooke from the harth burning continually before the Altar; in the other hand he had a Purse full of Incense, which he cast into the Censor, and as he entred the place where the Idoll was, he in∣censed it with great reuerence, then tooke he a cloth, with the which he wiped the Altar and the Curtins. This done, they went all into a Chappell, and there did a certaine kinde of rigorous and austere penance, beating themselues, and drawing of bloud, as I shall shew in the Treatise of Penance, which the Deuill hath taught to his Creatures; and hereof they neuer sayled at these Mattins at mid-night. None other but the Priests might entermeddle with their sacri∣fices, and euery one did imploy himselfe according to his dignitie and degree. They did likewise preach to the people at some feasts, as I will shew when wee treat thereof. They had Reuenues, [ 10] and great Offerings were made vnto them. I will speake hereafter of their Vnction in consecra∣ting their Priests. In Peru the Priests were entertayned of the Reuenues and Inheritance of their god, which they called Chacaras, which were many, and also very rich.

* 6.367There were in Peru many Monasteries of Virgins (for there are no other admitted) at the least one in euery Prouince. In these Monasteries there were two sorts of women, one ancient, which they called Mamacomas, for the instruction of the young; and the other was of young Maidens, placed there for a certaine time, and after they were drawne forth, either for their gods or for the Ingua. They called this House or Monasterie Aclaguagi, which is to say, the House of the Chosen. Euery Monasterie had his Vicar or Gouernour called Appopanaca, who had libertie and [ 20] power to choose whom he pleased, of what qualitie soeuer, being vnder eight yeeres of age, if they seemed to be of a good stature and constitution.

* 6.368These Virgins thus shut vp into these Monasteries, were instructed by the Momacomas, in di∣uers things needfull for the life of man, and in the customes and ceremonies of their gods; and afterwards they tooke them from thence, being aboue fourteene, sending them to the Court with sure guards, whereof some were appointed to serue the Guacas and Sanctuaries, keeping their Virg••nities for euer: some others were for the ordinarie sacrifices that were made of Maidens, and other extraordinarie sacrifices, they made for the health, death, or warres of the Ingua; and the rest serued for Wiues and Concubines to the Ingua, and vnto other his Kinsfolks and Captains, vnto whom hee gaue them, which was a great and honorable recompence: This distribution [ 30] was vsed euery yeere. These Monasteries possessed Rents and Reuenues for the maintenance of these Virgins, which were in great numbers. It was not lawfull for any father to refuse his daughters when the Appopanaca required them for the seruice of these Monasteries. Yea, many fathers did willingly offer their daughters, supposing it was a great merit to be sacrificed for the Ingua. If any of these Momacomas or Acllas were found to haue trespassed against their honor, it was an ineuitable chastisement to burie them aliue, or to put them to death by some other kind of cruell torment.

The Deuill hath euen in Mexico had some kinde of religious women, although their posses∣sion was but for one yeere, and it was in this sort: Within this great circuit whereof wee haue spoken, which was in the principall Temple, there were two Houses like Cloysters, the one op∣posite [ 40] to the other, one of Men, the other of Women: In that of women, they were Virgins onely, of twelue or thirteene yeeres of age, which they called the Maides of Penance. They were as many as the men, and liued chastely and regularly, as Virgins dedicated to the seruice of their god. Their charge was, to sweep and make cleane the Temple, and euery morning to prepare meat for the Idoll and his Ministers, of the Almes the religious gathered. The foode they prepa∣red for the Idoll were small loaues in the forme of hands and feet, as of Ma••ch-pane: and with this bread they prepared certaine sawces which they cast daily before the Idoll, and his Priests did eate it,* 6.369 as those of Baal, that Daniel speaketh of. These Virgins had their haire cut, and then they let them grow for a certaine time: they rose at mid-night to the Idoll•• Mattins, which they daily celebrated, performing the same exercises the Religious did. They had their Abbesses [ 50] who imployed them to make cloth of diuers fashions for the ornament of their Idolls and Tem∣ples. Their ordinarie habit was all white, without any worke or colour. They did their penance at mid-night, sacrificing and wounding themselues, and piercing the top of their eares, they laid the bloud which issued forth vpon their cheekes: and after (to wash off the bloud) they bathed themselues in a Poole which was within their Monasterie. They liued very honestly and dis∣creetly; and if any were found to haue offended, although but lightly, presently they were put to death without remission, saying, she had polluted the House of their god. They held it for an a••gure and aduertisement, that some one of the Religious, Man, or Woman, had committed a fault, when they saw a Rat or a Mowse passe, or a Bat in the Chappell of their Idoll, or that they had gnawed any of the vailes, for that they say, a Rat or a Bat would not aduenture to commit [ 60] such an indignitie, if some offence had not gone before, and then they began to make search of the fact, and hauing discouered the Offendor or Offendors, of what qualitie soeuer they pre∣sently put them to death.

None were receiued into this Monasterie, but the daughters of one of the sixe quarters, named

for that purpose: and this profession continued, as I haue said, the space of one whole yeere: du∣ring the which time, their fathers, and they themselues had made a vow to serue the Idoll in this manner, and from thence they went to be married.

I doe not know that in Peru there is any proper houses for men,* 6.370 but for the Priests and Sorce∣rers, whereof there is an infinite number. But it seemeth, that in Mexico the Deuill hath set a due obseruation: for within the circuit of the great Temple there were two Monasteries, as be∣fore hath beene said, one of Virgins, whereof I haue spoken, the other of young men secluded of eighteen or twentie yeeres of age, which they called religious. They weare shaued crownes, as the Friars in these parts, their haire a little longer, which fell to the middest of their eare, except the hinder part of the head, which they let grow the breadth of foure fingers down to their shoulders [ 10] and which they tyed vp in tresses. These young men that serued in the Temple of Vitzliputzli li∣ued poore and chastly, and did the Office of Leuites, ministring to the Priests and chiefe of the Temple, their Incense, Lights, & garments; they swept and made cleane the holy places, bringing Wood for a continuall fire to the harth of their god, which was like a lampe that still burnt before the Altar of their Idoll. Besides these young men, there were other little boyes, as novices, that serued for manuall vses, as to deck the Temple with boughs, roses, & reeds, giue the Priests water to wash with, giue them their rasors to sacrifice, and goe with such as begged almes to carry it. All these had their superiors, who had the gouernment ouer them, they liued so honestly, as when they came in publike, where there were any women, they carried their heads very low, with [ 20] their eyes to the ground, not daring to behold them: they had linnen garments, and it was law∣full for them to goe into the Citie foure or sixe together, to aske Almes in all quarters: and when they gaue them none, it was lawfull to goe into the Corne fields, and gather the eares of Corne, or clusters of Mays, which they most needed, the Master not daring to speake, nor hinder them. They had this libertie, because they liued poorely, and had no other reuenues, but Almes. There might not be aboue fiftie liue in penance, rising at midnight to sound the Cornets and Trumpets to a∣wake the people. Euery one watched the Idoll in his turne, lest the fire before the Altar should die: they gaue the Censor, with the which the Priest at midnight incensed the Idoll, and also in the morning at noone, & at night. They were very subiect and obedient to their superiors, and passed not any one point that was commaunded them. And at midnight after the Priest had [ 30] ended his censing, they retired themselues into a secret place, apart, sacrificing, and drawing blood from the calfes of their legs with sharpe bodkins: with this bloud they rubbed their tem∣ples, and vnder their eares: and this sacrifice finished, they presently washt themselues in a little poole appointed to that end. These young men did not annoint their heads and bodies with any Petum, as the Priests did: their garments were of course white linnen cloth they doe make there. These exercises and strictnesse of penance continued a whole yeere, during which time they liued with great austeritie and solitarinesse.

It hath beene said that the Priests and religious of Mexico, rose at midnight,* 6.371 and hauing cast Incense before the Idoll, they retired themselues into a large place, where there were many Lighs; and sitting downe, euery one tooke a point of Manguay, which is like vnto an awle or [ 40] sharpe bodkin, with the which, or with some other kindes of Launcets or Rasors, they pierced the calfes of their legs neere to the bone, drawing forth much bloud, with the which they anointed their temples, and dipt these bodkins or lancets in the rest of the bloud, then set they them vp∣on the battlements of the Court, stickt in gloabes or bowles of straw, that all might see and know the penance they did for the people: they doe wash off the bloud in a lake appointed for that purpose, which they call Ezapangue, which is to say, water of bloud.

There were in the Temple a great number of bodkins or lancets, for that they might not vse one twice. Moreouer, these Priests and Religious men, vsed great Fastings,* 6.372 of fiue or ten dayes together, before any of their great Feasts, and they were vnto them as our foure Ember weekes: they were so strict in continence, that some of them (not to fall into any sensualitie) slit their [ 50] members in the midst, and did a thousand things to make themselues vnable,* 6.373 lest they should offend their gods. They drunke no Wine, and slept little, for that the greatest part of their exer∣cises were by night, committing great cruelties and martyring themselues for the Deuill, and all to bee reputed great fasters and penitents. They did vse to discipline themselues with cords full of knots, and not they onely, but the people also vsed this punishment and whipping, in the procession and feast they made to the Idoll Tezcalipuca, the which (as I haue said before) is the god of penance; for then they all carried in their hands new cordes of the threed of Manguey a fadome long, with a knot at the end, and wherewish they whipped themselues, giuing great la∣shes ouer their shoulders. The Priests did fast fiue dayes before this Feast, eating but once a day, and they liued apart from their wiues, not going out of the Temple during those fiue dayes, they did whip themselues rigorously in the manner aforesaid.

[ 60] In Peru to solemnize the feast of the Yta, which was great, all the people fasted two dayes; during the which, they did not accompanie with their Wiues, neither did they eate any meate with Salt or Garleeke, nor drinke Chica. They did much vse this kinde of fasting for some sins, and did penance, whipping themselues with sharpe stinging Net••les, and often they strooke

themselues ouer the shoulders with certayne stones. This blind Nation, by the perswasion of the Deuill, did transport themselues into craggie Mountaynes, where sometimes they sacrificed themselues, casting themselues downe from some high Rocke.

* 6.374Wee may draw all the Sacrifices the Infidels vse into three kindes, one of insensible things; another of beasts, and the third of men. They did vse in Peru to sacrifice Co∣ca, which is an hearbe they esteeme much, of Mays, which is their Wheate, of coloured feathers, and of Chaquira, which otherwise they call Mollo, of shels or Oysters, and sometime Gold and Siluer, being in figures of little beasts. Also of the fine stuffe of Cumbi, of carued and sweet wood, and most commonly Tallow burnt. They made these Offerings or Sacrifices for a prosperous winde, and faire weather, or for their health, and to be deliuered from some dangers and mishaps. Of the second kind, their ordinary Sacrifice was of Cuyes, which are small beasts [ 10] like Rabbets, the which the Indians eate commonly. And in matters of importance, or when they were rich men, they did offer Pacos, or Indian sheepe, bare, or with Wooll, obseruing cu∣riously the numbers, colours, and times. The manner of killing their Sacrifices, great or small, which the Indians did vse according to their ancient Ceremonies, is the same the Moores vse at this day, the which they call Alqulble, hanging the beast by the right fore-legge, turning his eyes towards the Sunne, speaking certayne words, according to the qualitie of the Sacrifice they slue: for if it were of colour, their words were directed to Chuquilla, and to the Thunder, that they might want no water: if it were white and smoothe, they did offer it to the Sunne with certaine words: if it had a fleece, they did likewise offer it him with some others, that he might shine vpon them, and fauour their generation: If it were a Guanaco, which is gray, they dire∣cted [ 20] their sacrifice to Viracocha. In Cusco they did euery yeere kill and sacrifice with this Cere∣mony, a shorne sheepe to the Sunne, and did burne it, clad in a red Waste-coate, and when they did burne it, they cast certayne small baskets of Coca into the fire, which they call Vilcaronca; for which Sacrifice, they haue both men and beasts appointed which serue to no other vse. They did likewise sacrifice small Birds, although it were not so vsuall in Peru as in Mexico, where the sacrificing of Quailes was very ordinary.* 6.375 Those of Peru did sacrifice the Birds of Puna, (for so they call the Desart when they should goe to the Warres, for to weaken the forces of their aduersaries Guacas.) They called these Sacrifices Cuzcouicca, or Conteuicca, or Huallauicca, or Sophauicca, and they did it in this manner: they tooke many kinds of small Birds of the Desart, and gathered a great deale of a thorny wood, which they call Yanlli, the which beeing kindled, [ 30] they gathered together these small Birds. This assembly they called Quico, then did they cast them into the fire, about the which the Officers of the Sacrifice went with certayne round stones carued, whereon were painted many Snakes, Lions, Toades, and Tygres, vttering this word V∣sachum, which signifies, Let the victorie be giuen vnto vs, with other words, whereby they sayd the forces of their enemies Guacas were confounded.* 6.376 And they drew forth certayne blacke sheepe, which had beene kept close some dayes without meate, the which they called Vrca, and in killing them they spake these words; As the hearts of these beasts bee weakened, so let our enemies be weakned. And if they found in these sheepe that a certayne piece of flesh behind the hear were not consumed by fasting and close keeping,* 6.377 they then held it for an ill Augure. They brought certayne blacke Dogges, which they call Appuros, and slue them, casting them into a [ 40] Playne, with certayne Ceremonies, causing some kinde of men to eate this flesh, the which Sa∣crifices they did,* 6.378 lest the Ingua should bee hurt by poyson: and for this cause they fasted from morning vntill the starres were vp, and then they did glut and defile themselues like to the Moores. This Sacrifice was most fit for them to withstand their enemies Gods: and although at this day a great part of these customes haue ceased, the warres being ended, yet remaynes there some Relikes, by reason of the priuate or generall quarrels of the Indians, or the Caciques, or in their Cities.* 6.379 They did likewise offer and sacrifice shels of the Sea, which they call Mollo, and they offered them to the Fountaynes and Springs, saying, that these shels were daughters of the Sea, the mother of all waters. They gaue vnto these shels sundry names, according to the co∣lour, and also they vse them to diuers ends. They vsed them in a manner in all kinde of Sacrifi∣ces, [ 50] and yet to this day they put beaten shels in their Chica, for a superstition. Finally, they thought it conuenient to offer Sacrifices of euery thing they did sow or raise vp. There were Indians appointed to doe these Sacrifices to the Fountayne, Springs, and Riuers which passed through the Townes, or by the their Charcas, which are their Farmes, which they did after Seed time, that they might not cease running, but alwayes water their grounds. The Sorcerers did conjure, to know what time the Sacrifices should be made, which beeing ended, they did gather of the contribution of the people, what should be sacrificed, and deliuered them to such as had the charge of these Sacrifices. They made them in the beginning of Winter, at such time as the Fountaynes, Springs, and Riuers, did increase by the moystures of the weather, which they did [ 60] attribute to their Sacrifices. They did not sacrifice to the Fountaynes and Springs of the De∣sarts. To this day continues the respect they had to Fountaynes, Springs, Pooles, Brookes, or Riuers, which passe by their Cities or Charcas, euen vnto the Fountaynes and Riuers of the De∣sarts. They haue a speciall regard and reuerence to the meeting of two Riuers, and there

they wash themselues for their health, annoynting themselues first with the flower of Mays, or some other things, adding thereunto diuers Ceremonies, the which they doe like∣wise in their Bathes.

THe most pittifull disasster of rhis poore people, is their slauery vnto the Deuill,* 6.380 sacrificing men vnto him, which are the Images of God. In many Nations they had vsed to kill (to accompany the dead, as hath beene declared) such persons as had beene agreeable vnto him, and whom they imagined might best serue him in the other World. Besides this, they vsed in Peru, to sacrifice young children of foure or sixe yeeres olde vnto ten: and the greatest part of [ 10] these Sacrifices were for the affaires that did import the Ingua, as in sicknesse for his health: and when he went to the warres for victory, or when they gaue the wreathe to their new Ingua, which is the mark of a King, as here the Scepter and the Crowne be. In this Solemnitie they sacrifi∣ced the number of two hundred children, from foure to ten yeeres of age, which was a cruell and inhumane spectacle.* 6.381 The manner of the Sacrifice was to drowne them and bury them with cer∣tayne representations and ceremonies: sometimes they cut off their heads annoynting them∣selues with the bloud from one eare to another.

They did likewise sacrifice Virgins, some of them that were brought to the Ingua from the Monasteries, as hath beene said. In this case there was a very great and generall abuse: If any Indian qualified, or of the common sort, were sicke, and that the Diuine told him confidently [ 20] that he should dye, they did then sacrifice his owne sonne to the Sunne, or to Virachoca,* 6.382 desiring them to be satisfied with him, and that they would not depriue the father of life. This crueltie is like to that the holy Scripture speaks of which the King of Moab vsed in sacrificing his first-born Sonne vpon the wall, in the sight of all Israel, to whom this act seemed so mournfull, as they would not presse him any further, but returned to their houses.

ALthough they of Peru haue surp••ssed the Mexicans in the slaughter and Sacrifice of their Children (for I haue not read nor vnderstood that the Mexicans vsed any such Sacrifices) yet they of Mexico haue exreeded them, yea all the Nations of the World,* 6.383 in the great num∣ber of men which they had sacrificed, and in the horrible manner thereof. And to the end wee [ 30] may see the great misery wherein the Deuill holds this blind Nation, I will relate particularly the custome and inhumane manner which they haue obserued: First the men they did sacrifice were taken in the warres, neyther did they vse these solemne Sacrifices but of Captiues: so as it seemes therein they haue followed the custome of the Ancients. For as some Authors say,* 6.384 they called the Sacrifice Victima, for this reason, because it was of a conquered thing: they also called it Hostia quasi ab hoste, for that it was an Offering made of their enemies, although they haue ap∣plyed this word to all kinds of Sacrifices. In truth the Mexicans did not sacrifice any to their Idols, but Captiues, and the ordinary warres they made, was onely to haue Captiues for their Sa∣crifices: and therefore when they did fight, they laboured to take their enemies aliue, and not to kill them, to enjoy their Sacrifices. And this was the reason which Moteçuma gaue to the [ 40] Marquise du Val, when he asked of him, why being so mightie, and hauing conquered so many Kingdomes. he had not subdued the Prouince of Tlascalla, which was so neere? Moteçu∣ma answered him, that for two reasons he had not conquered that Prouince, although it had bin easie, if he would haue vndertaken it: the one was for the exercise of the youth of Mexico, lest they should fall into idlenesse and delight: the other and the chiefe cause why hee had reserued this Prouince, was, to haue Captiues for the Sacrifices of their Gods.* 6.385 The manner they vsed in these Sacrifices, was, they assembled within the Palissadoe of dead mens Sculles (as hath beene said) such as should be sacrificed, vsing a certayne Ceremony at the foot of the Palissadoe, placing a great guard about them. Presently there stept forth a Priest, attyred with a short Surplice full of tassels beneath, who came from the top of the Temple with an Idoll made of Paste of Wheate and Mays mingled with Honey, which had the eyes made of the graines of greene glasse, and the [ 50] teeth of the graines of Mays, he descended the steps of the Temple with all the speed he could, and mounted on a great stone planted vpon a high Terrasse in the midst of the Court. This stone was called Qua••xicalli, which is to say, the stone of Eagle, whereon he mounted by a little Lad∣der, which was in the fore-part of the Terrasse, and descended by another staire on the other side, still imbracing his Idoll. Then did he mount to the place where those were that should be sacri∣ficed, shewing this Idoll to euery one in particular, saying vnto them; this is your God. And ha∣uing ended his shew, he descended by the other side of the staires, and all such as should dye, went in procession vnto the place where they should bee sacrificed, where they found the Mini∣sters ready for that Office. The ordinary manner of sacrificing was▪* 6.386 to open the stomake of him [ 60] that was sacrificed, and hauing pulled out his heart halfe aliue, they tumbled the man downe the staires of the Temple, which were all imbrewed and defiled with bloud: And to make it the more plaine, sixe Sacrificers being appointed to this dignitie, came into the place of Sacrifice, foure to hold the hands and feet of him that should be sacrificed, the fift to hold his head, and the sixt to open his stomake, and to pull out the heart of the sacrificed. They called them Cha∣chalmua,

which in our Tongue is as much, as the Ministers of holy things. It was a high dignitie, and much esteemed amongst them, wherein they did inherit and succeed as in a Fee-simple. The Minister who had the Office to kill, which was the sixt amongst them, was esteemed and honou∣red as the Souereigne Priest and Bishop, whose name was different, according to the difference of times and Solemnities. Their habits were likewise diuers when they came forth to the Sacri∣fice, according to the diuersitie of times. The name of their chiefe dignitie was Papa and Topil∣zin,* 6.387 their Habite and Robe was a red Curtayne after the Dalmatike fashion, with tassels below, a Crowne of rich Feathers, greene, white, and yellow vpon his head, and at his eares like pen∣dants of Gold, wherein were set greene stones, and vnder the lip vpon the middest of the beard he had a Peece like vnto a small Canon of an azured stone. These Sacrificers came with their fa∣ces [ 10] and hands coloured with a shining blacke.* 6.388 The other fiue had their haire much curled, and tyed vp with Laces of Leather, bound about the middest of the head: vpon their forehead they carried small Roundelets of Paper painted with diuers colours, and they were attyred in a Dal∣matike Robe of white, wrought with blacke. With this attyre they represented the very fi∣gure of the Deuill, so as it did strike feare and terrour into all the people, to see them come forth with so horrible a representation. The Souereigne Priest carried a great Knife in his hand, of a large and sharpe flint: another Priest carried a coller of wood wrought in forme of a Snake: All six put themselues in order, ioyning to this Pyramidall stone, wherof I haue spoken, being di∣rectly against the doore of the Chappell of their Idoll. This stone was so pointed, as the man which was to be sacrificed, being laid thereon, vpon his backe, did bend in such sort, as letting [ 20] the Knife but fall vpon his stomack it opened very easily in the middest. When the Sacrificers were thus in order, they drew forth such as had beene taken in warre, which were to bee sacrifi∣ced at that Feast, and being accompanied with a guard of men all naked, they caused them to mount vp these large staires in ranke, to the place where the Ministers were prepared: and as e∣uery one of them came in their order, the six Sacrificers tooke the Prisoner, one by one foote, another by the other, and one by one hand, another by the other, casting on his backe vpon this pointed stone, where the fift of these Ministers put the coller of wood about his necke, and the High Priest opened his stomack with the Knife,* 6.389 with a strange dexteritie and nimblenesse, pul∣ling out his heart with his hands, the which hee shewed smoking vnto the Sunne, to whom hee did offer this heate and fume of the heart, and presently he turned towards the Idoll and did cast [ 30] the heart at his face, then did they cast away the body of the sacrificed, tumbling it downe the staires of the Temple, the stone being set so neere the staires, as there were not two foote space betwixt the stone and the first step, so as with one spurne with their foote, they cast the bodie from the top to the bottome. In this sort one after one they did sacrifice all those that were ap∣pointed. Being thus slaine, and their bodies cast downe, their Masters, or such as had taken them, went to take them vp, and carried them away: then hauing diuided them amongst them, they did eate them, celebrating their Feast and Solemnitie. There were euer fortie or fiftie at the least thus sacrificed, for that they had men very expert in taking them. The neighbour Nati∣ons did the like, imitating the Mexicans in the Customes and Ceremonies of the Seruice of their Gods. [ 40]

* 6.390THere was another kind of Sacrifice which they made in diuers feasts, which they call Raca∣xipe Velitzli, which is as much as the flaying of men. They call it so, for that in some Feasts they tooke one or more slaues, as they pleased, and after they had flayed him, they with that skinne apparelled a man appointed to that end. This man went dancing and leaping thorow all the houses and Market places of the Citie, euery one being forced to offer something vnto him: and if any one fayled, he would strike him ouer the face with a corner of the skin, defiling him with the congealed bloud. This inuention continued vntill the skinne did stinke: during which time, such as went, gathered together much almes, which they employed in necessary things for the Seruice of their Gods. In many of these Feasts they made a Challenge, betwixt him [ 50] that did sacrifice, and him that should bee sacrificed thus: they tyed the slaue by one foote to a Wheele of stone,* 6.391 giuing him a Sword and Target in his hands to defend himselfe: then presently stept forth hee that sacrificed him; armed with another Sword and Target: if hee that should bee sacrificed defends himselfe valiantly against the other, and resisted him, hee then remayned freed from the Sacrifice, winning the name of a famous Captayne, and so was re∣puted: but if hee were vanquished, they then sacrificed him on the stone whereunto hee was was tyed. It was another kinde of Sacrifice, when as they appointed any slaue to bee the re∣presentation of the Idoll, saying that it was his Picture: They euery yeere gaue one slaue to the Priests,* 6.392 that they might neuer want the liuely Image of their Idoll. At his first entry into the Office, after he had beene well washed, they attyred him with all the ornaments of the Idoll, [ 60] giuing him the same name. Hee was that whole yeere reuerenced and honoured as the Idoll it selfe, and had alwayes with him twelue men for his Guard, lest hee should flye, with which Guard they suffered him to goe freely and where he would: and if by chance he fled, the chiefe of the Guard was put in his place to represent the Idoll, and after to bee sacrificed. This Indian

had the most honourable lodging in all the Temple, where hee did eate and drinke, and whither all the chiefe Ministers came to serue and honour him, carrying him meate after the manner of great Personages. When hee went through the streets of the Citie, hee was well ac∣companied with Noblemen, hee carried a l••••tle Flute in his hand, which sometimes hee sounded, to giue them knowledge when he passed: then presently the women came forth with their little children in their armes, which they presented vnto him, saluting him as God. All the rest of the people did the like: at night they put him in a strong Prison or Cage, le••t he should flye; and when the Feast came, they sacrificed him, as hath beene said.

By these and many other meanes hath the Deuill abused and entertayned these poore wret∣ches, and such was the multitude of those that had beene sacrificed by this infernall crueltie,* 6.393 as [ 10] it seemes a matter incredible, for they affirme there were some dayes fiue thousand or more, and that there were aboue twentie thousand sacrificed in diuers places. The Deuill to entertaine this murther of men, vsed a pleasant and strange inuention, which was, when it pleased the Priests of Satan they went to their Kings, telling them how their Gods dyed for hunger,* 6.394 and that they should remember them. Presently they prepared themselues, and aduertised one a∣nother, that their Gods required meate, and therefore they should command their people to bee readie to goe to the Warres; and thus the people assembled, and the companies appointed went to field, where they mustred their forces; and all their quarrell and fight was to take one another for sacrifice, striuing on either side to take what Captiues they could, so as in these battels they [ 20] laboured more to take, then to kill, for that all their intention was to take men aliue, to giue them to their Idols to eate, for after that manner brought they their Sacrifice vnto their Gods, And wee must vnderstand, that neuer King was crowned vntill he had subdued some Prouince, from the which he brought a great number of Captiues for the Sacrifices of their Gods, so as it was an infinite thing to see what bloud was spilt in the honour of the Deuill.

MAny of these Barbarians were now wearied and tyred with such an excessiue crueltie,* 6.395 in shedding so much bloud, and with so tedious a Tribute, to bee alwayes troubled to get Captiues, for the feeding of their Gods, seeming vnto them a matter insupportable; yet left they not to follow and execute their rigorous Lawes, for the great awe the Ministers of these Idols kept them in, and the cunning wherewith they abused this poore people. But inwardly they [ 30] desired to be freed from so heauie a yoke. And it was a great prouidence of God; that the first which gaue them knowledge of the Law of Christ, found them in this disposition: for with∣out doubt it seemed to them a good Law, and a good God, to bee serued in this sort. Heereupon a graue religious man in New Spaine told me, that when he was in that Countrey he had deman∣ded of an ancient Indian, a man of qualitie, for what reason the Indians had so soone receiued the Law of Iesus Christ, and left their owne, without making any other proofe, tryall, or dispute thereon, for it seemed they had changed their Religion, without any sufficient reason to mooue them. The Indian answered him, Beleeue not Father, that we haue embraced the Law of Christ so rashly as they say: for I will tell you, that we were alreadie wearie and discontented with such things as the Idols commanded vs, and were determined to leaue it, and to take another Law. But when as wee [ 40] found that the Religion that you preached had no cruelties in it, and that it was fit for vs, and both iust and good, we vnderstood and beleeued that it was the true Law, and so we receiued it willingly. Which answere of this Indian agrees well with that we reade in the first Discourse, that Fernand Cortes sent to the Emperour Charles the fift, wherein hee reports, that after he had conquered the Ci∣tie of Mexico, being in Cuyoacan, there came Ambassadours to him from the Prouince and Common-wealth of Mechoacan requiring him to send them his Law, and that hee would teach them to vnderstand it, because they intended to leaue their owne, which seemed not good vnto them, which Cortez granted, and at this day they are the best Indians, and the truest Christians that are in New Spaine. The Spaniards that saw these cruell Sacrifices, resol∣ued with all their power to abolish so detestable and cursed a butchering of men, and the ra∣ther, [ 50] for that in one night before their eyes they saw threescore or threescore and tenne Spa∣niards sacrificed, which had beene taken in a battaile giuen at the Conquest of Mexico:* 6.396 and another time they found written with a Coale in a Chamber in Tezcusco these wordes; Heere such a miserable man was Prisoner with his Companions whom they of Tezcusco did sacrifice.

There happened a very strange thing vpon this subiect, and yet true, beeing repor∣ted by men worthy of credit, which was, that the Spaniards beholding these Sacrifices, hauing opened and drawne out the heart of the lustie young man, and cast him from the top of the stayres (as their custome was) when hee came at the bottome, hee said to the Spaniards in his Language, Knights, they haue slaine mee,* 6.397 the which did greatly mooue our [ 60] men to horrour and pitie. It is no incredible thing, that hauing his heart pulled out, hee might speake, seeing that Galen reports that it hath often chanced in the Sacrifice of beasts, after the heart hath beene drawne out, and cast vpon the Altar, the beasts haue breathed, yea,* 6.398 they did bray and cry out aloude, and sometimes did runne.

In the first moneth, which in Peru they called Rayme, and answereth to our December, they made a most solemne feast,* 6.399 called Capacrayme, wherein they made many sacrifices and ceremo∣nies, which continued many dayes: during the which, no stranger was suffered to bee at the Court which was in Cusco. These dayes being past, they then gaue libertie to strangers to enter, that they might be partakers of the feasts and sacrifices, ministring to them in this manner. The Mamacoma of the Sunne, which were a kinde of Nunnes of the Sunne, made little loaues of the flower of Mays, dyed and mingled with the bloud of white Sheepe, which they did sacrifice that day; then presently they commanded that all strangers should enter, who set themselues in order, and the Priests which were of a certaine Linage, descending from Linquiyupangui, gaue to euery one a morsell of these small loaues, saying vnto them, that they gaue these pieces, to the end they should be vnited and confederate with the Ingua, and that they aduised them not to speake nor [ 10] thinke any ill against the Ingua, but alwayes to beare him good affection, for that this piece should bee a witnesse of their intentions and will, and if they did not as they ought, hee would discouer them and bee a∣gainst them. They carried these small loaues, in great Platters of gold and siluer appointed for that vse, and all did receiue and eate these pieces, thanking the Sunne infinitely for so great a fa∣uour which hee had done them, speaking wordes and making signes of great contentment and deuotion: protesting that during their liues, they would neither doe nor thinke any thing against the Sunne nor the Ingua: and with this condition they receiued this foode of the Sunne, the which should remaine in their bodies for a witnesse of their fidelitie which they obserued to the Sunne and to the Ingua their King. This manner of deuillish communicating they likewise vsed in the tenth moneth, called Coyarayme, which was September, in the solemne feast which they called [ 20] Cytua, doing the like ceremonies. And besides this Communion (if it be lawfull to vse this word in so deuillish a matter) which they imparted to all strangers that came, they did likewise send of these loaues to all their Guacas, Sanctuaries, or Idols of the whole Realme, and at one instant they found people of all sides, which came expresly to receiue them, to whom they said (in de∣liuering them) that the Sunne had sent them that, in signe that hee would haue them all to worship and honor him, and likewise did send them in honor of the Caciques. Some perhaps will hold this for a fable and a fiction: yet is it most true, that since the Ingua Yupangi (the which is hee that hath made most Lawes, Customes, and Ceremonies, as Numa did in Rome) this manner of Com∣munion hath continued, vntill that the Gospell of our Lord Iesus Christ thrust out all these super∣stitions, giuing them the right foode of life, which vnites their soules to God: who so would sa∣tisfie [ 30] himselfe more amply, let him reade the Relation which the Licenciate Pollo did write.

* 6.400IT is a thing more worthy admiration, to heare speake of the Feast and solemnitie of the Com∣munion which the Deuill himselfe, the Prince of Pride, ordained in Mexico, the which (al∣though it be somewhat long) yet shall it not be from the purpose to relate as it is written by men of credite. The Mexicanes in the moneth of May, made their principall Feast to their god Vit∣ziliputzli, and two dayes before this Feast, the Virgins whereof I haue spoken (the which were shut vp and secluded in the same Temple, and were as it were Religious women) did mingle a quantitie of the seede of Beetes with roasted Mays, and then they did mould it with honey, ma∣king an Idoll of that paste, in bignesse like to that of wood, putting in stead of eyes, graines of [ 40] greene glasse, of blue, or white; and for teeth, graines of Mays, set forth with all the ornament and furniture that I haue said. This being finished, all the Noblemen came and brought it an ex∣quisite and rich garment, like vnto that of the Idoll, wherewith they did attyre it. Being thus clad and deckt, they did set it in an azured Chaire, and in a Litter to carry it on their shoulders. The morning of this feast being come, an houre before day, all the Maidens came forth attyred in white, with new ornaments, the which that day were called the sisters of their god Vitzli∣putzli, they came crowned with Garlands of Mays r••asted and parched, being like vnto Azahar or the flower of Orange, and about their necks they had great chaines of the same, which went bauldrickwise vnder their left arme. Their cheekes were dyed with Vermillion, their armes from the elbow to the wrist, were couered with red Parrots feathers. And thus attyred, they [ 50] tooke the Idoll on their shoulders, carrying it into the Court, where all the young men were, at∣tyred in garments of an artificiall red, crowned after the same manner, like vnto the women. When as the Maidens came forth with the Idoll, the young men drew neere with much reue∣rence, taking the Litter wherein the Idoll was, vpon their shoulders, carrying it to the foote of the staires of the Temple, where all the people did humble themselues, laying earth vpon their heads, which was an ordinarie ceremonie which they did obserue at the chiefe feast of their gods. This ceremonie being ended, all the people went in Procession with all the diligence and speede they could, going to a Mountayne which was a league from the Citie of Mexico, called Chapul∣teper, and there they made sacrifices. Presently they went from thence with like diligence, to [ 60] goe to a place neere vnto it, which they called Atlacuyauaya, where they made their second sta∣tion: and from thence they went to another Burgh or Village a league beyond Cuyoacan, from whence they parted, returning to the Citie of Mexico, not making any other station. They went in this sort aboue foure leagues in three or foure houres, calling this Procession Ypayna Vitz∣liputzli.

Being come to the foot of the staires, they set downe the Brancard or Litter with the Idoll, tying great Cordes to the armes of the Brancard, then with great obseruance and reuerence, they did draw vp the Litter with the Idoll in it to the top of the Temple, some drawing aboue, and others helping below, in the meane time there was a great noyse of Flutes, Trumpets, Cor∣nets, and Drummes. They did mount it in this manner, for that the stayres of the Temple were very steepe and narrow, so as they could not carry vp the Litter vpon their shoulders,* 6.401 while they mounted vp the Idoll, all the people stood in the Court with much reuerence and feare. Being mounted to the top, and that they had placed it in a little Lodge of Roses, which they held readie, presently came the young men, which strewed many flowers of sundrie kindes, [ 10] wherewith they filled the Temple both within and without. This done, all the Virgins came out of their Couent, bringing pieces of paste compounded of Beetes, and roasted Mays, which was of the same paste whereof their Idoll was made and compounded, and they were of the fashion of great bones. They deliuered them to the young men, who carried them vp and laid them vp, and laid them at the Idols feete, wherewith they filled the whole place, that it could receiue no more. They called these morsels of paste, the flesh and bones of Vitz∣liputzli. Hauing laid abroad these bones, presently came all the Ancients of the Temple, Priests, Leuites, and all the rest of the Ministers, according to their Dignities and Antiquities, for herein there was a strict order amongst them, one after another, with their va••les of diuers colours and workes, euery one according to his Dignitie and Office, hauing Garlands vpon [ 20] their heads, and Chaines of flowers about their necks: after them came their gods and goddesses whom they worshipt, of diuers figures, attyred in the same liuerie; then putting themselues in order about those morsels and pieces of paste, they vsed certaine ceremonies with singing and dancing. By meanes whereof they were blessed and consecrated for the flesh and bones of this Idoll.

This ceremonie and blessing (whereby they were taken for the flesh and bones of the Idoll) be∣ing ended, they honored those pieces in the same sort as their god. Then came forth the Sacri∣ficers, who began the sacrifice of men, in the manner as hath beene spoken, and that day they did sacrifice a greater number then at any other time, for that it was the most solemne feast they obserued. The sacrifices being ended, all the young Men and Maides came out of the Tem∣ple [ 30] attyred as before, and being placed in order and ranke one directly against another, they danced by Drummes the which sounded in praise of the Feast, and of the Idoll which they did celebrate. To which song all the most ancient and greatest noble-men did answere, dancing a∣bout them, making a great circle as their vse is, the young Men and Maides remayning alwayes in the middest. All the Citie came to this goodly spectacle, and there was a commandement ve∣ry strictly obserued throughout all the Land, that the day of the feast of the Idoll Vitziliputzli, they should eate no other meate, but this paste with hony, whereof the Idoll was made. And this should be eaten at the point of day, and they should drinke no water not any other thing till after noone: they held it for an ill signe, yea for sacrilege, to doe the contrarie: but after the ceremonies ended, it was lawfull for them to eate any thing. During the time of this ceremonie, [ 40] they hid the water from their little children, admonishing all such as had the vse of reason, not to drinke any water; which if they did, the anger of God would come vpon them, and they should die, which they did obserue very car••fully and strictly. The ceremonies, dancing, and sacrifice ended, they went to vnclothe themselues, and the Priests and Superiors of the Temple tooke the Idoll of paste, which they spoyled of all the ornaments it had, and made many pieces, as well of the Idoll it selfe as of the Tronchons which were consecrated, and then they gaue them to the Communion, beginning with the greater, and continuing vnto the rest, both Men, Women, and little Children; who receiued it with such teares, feare, and reuerence, as it was an admirable thing, saying, that they did eate the flesh and bones of God, wherewith they were grie∣ued. Such as had any sicke folkes demanded thereof for them, and carried it with great reue∣rence and veneration.

[ 50] All such as did communicate, were bound to giue the tenth of this seede, whereof the Idoll was made. The solemnitie of the Idoll being ended, an old man of great authoritie stept vp into a high place, and with a loud voice preached their Law and Ceremonies.

THe father of lyes would like wise counterfait the (Romish) Sacrament of Confession, and in his Idolatries seeke to be honored with ceremonies very like to the manner of Christians. In Peru they held opinion, that all diseases and aduersities came for the sinnes which they had committed: for remedie whereof they vsed sacrifices: moreouer, they confessed themselues ver∣bally, almost in all Prouinces, and had Confessors appointed by their Superiors to that end, there [ 60] were some sinnes reserued for the Superiors. They receiued penance, yea somtimes very sharply, especially when the Offendor was a poore man, and had nothing to giue his Confessor. This of∣fice of Confessor was likewise exercised by Women. The manner of these Confessors Sorcerers whom they call Ychu••ri or Ychuri, hath beene most generall in the Prouinces of Collasu••••. They hold opinion, that it is a haynous sinne to conceale any thing in confession. The Ychuiri or Con∣fessors

discouered by lots, or by the view of some beast Hides, if any thing were concealed, and punished them with many blowes with a stone vpon the shoulders, vntill they had reuealed all, then after they gaue him penance, and did sacrifice. They doe likewise vse this confession, when their children, wiues, husbands, or their Caciques be sicke, or in any great exploit. And when their Ingua was sicke, all the Prouinces confessed themselues, chiefly those of the Prouince of Collao. The Confessor, were bound to hold their Confessions secret, but in certaine cases limited. The sinnes that they chiefly confessed, was first to kill one another out of warre, then to steale, to take another mans wife, to giue poyson or sorcerie to doe any harme▪ and they held it to be a grieuous sinne,* 6.402 to be forgetfull in the reuerence of their Guacas, or Oratories, not to obserue the Feasts, or to speake ill of the Ingua, and to disobey him. They accused not themselues of any se∣cret [ 10] acts and sinnes. But according to the report of some Priests, after the Christians came into that Country, they accused themselues of their thoughts. The Ingua confessed himselfe to no man, but onely to the Sunne, that hee might tell them to Virachoca, and that hee might forgiue them. After the Ingua had beene confessed, he made a certaine bath to cleanse himselfe in a run∣ning Riuer, saying these words: I haue told my sinnes to the Sunne, receiue them, O thou Riuer, and carry them to the Sea, where they may neuer appeare more. Others that confessed, vsed likewise these baths, with certaine ceremonies very like to those the Moores vse at this day, which they call Guadoy, and the Indians call them Opacuna. When it chanced that any mans children dyed, hee was held for a great sinner, saying, that it was for his sinnes that the sonne dyed before the fa∣ther. And therefore those to whom this had chanced, after they were confessed, were bathed [ 20] in this bath called Opacuna, as is said before. Then some de••ormed Indian, crooke-backt, and counterfait by nature, came to whip them with certaine Nettles. If the Sorcerers or Inchanters by their lots and diuinations, affirmed that any sicke body should die, the sicke man makes no dif∣ficultie to kill his owne sonne, though he had no other, hoping by that meanes to escape death, saying,* 6.403 that in his place he offered his sonne in sacrifice. And this crueltie hath beene practised in some places, euen since the Christians came into that Country. In truth it is strange, that this custome of confessing their secret sinnes, hath continued so long amongst them, and to doe so strict penances, as, to fast, to giue apparell, gold and siluer, to remaine in the Mountaynes, and to re∣ceiue many stripes vpon the shoulders.* 6.404 Our men say, that in the Prouince of Chiquito, euen at this day they meet with this plague of Confessors o•• Ychuris, where as many sicke persons repaire vn∣to [ 30] them: but now, by the grace of God, this people begins to see cleerly the effect and great be∣nefit of our Confession, whereunto they come with great deuotion.

I will report the manner of a strange confession the Deuill hath inuented at Iapon, as appeares by a Letter that came from thence, which saith thus: There are in Ocaca very great and high and steepe Rocks,* 6.405 which haue pricks or points on them, aboue two hundred fathom high. A∣mongst these Rocks there is one of these pikes or points so terribly high, that when the Xama••u∣sis (which be Pilgrimes) doe but looke vp vnto it, they tremble, and their baire stares, so fearfull and horrible is the place. Vpon the top of this point there is a great rod of Iron of three fathom long, placed there by a strange deuice, at the end of this rod is a ballance ••yed, whereof the scarles are so bigge, as a man may sit in one of them: and the Goquis (which be Deuils in humane shape) [ 40] command these Pilgrimes to enter therein one after another, not leauing one of them: then with an engine or instrument which mooueth, by meanes of a wheele, they make this rod of Iron whereon the ballance is hanged, to hang in the aire, one of these Xama••usis being set in one of the scales of the ballance. And as that wherein the man is set hath no counterpoise on the other side, it presently hangeth downe, and the other riseth vntill it meets with and toucheth the rod: then the Goquis telleth them from the Rocke, that they must confesse themselues of all the sinnes they haue committed, to their remembrance, and that with a loud voyce, to the end that all the rest may heare him. Then presently hee beginneth to confesse, whilest some of the standers by doe laugh at the sinnes they doe heare; and others sigh, and at euery sinne they confesse, the other scale of the ballance falls a little, vntill that hauing told all his sinnes, it remaines equall with the [ 50] other, wherein the sorrowfull penitent sits: then the Goquis turnes the wheele, and drawes the rod and ballance vnto him, and the Pilgrime comes forth; then enters another, vntill all haue passed. A Iaponois reported this after he was christned, saying, that hee had beene in this pilgri∣mage, and entred the ballance seuen times, where he had confessed himselfe publikely. Hee said moreouer, that if any one did conceale any sinne, the emptie scale yeelded not: and if hee grew obstinate after instance made to confesse himselfe, refusing to open all his sinnes, the Goquis cast him downe from the top, where in an instant he is broken into a thousand pieces. Yet this Chri∣stian,* 6.406 who was called Iohn, told vs, that commonly the feare and terror of this place is so great to all such as enter therein, and the danger they see with their eyes, to fall out of the ballance, and to be broken in pieces, that seldom there is any one but discouers all his sinnes. This place is called by another name Sangenotocoro, that is to say, the place of Confession. [ 60]

The Priests of the Idols in Mexico were anointed in this sort; they anointed the body from the foote to the head, and all the haire likewise, which hung like tres••es, or a Horse mane, for that they applyed this Vnction wet and moist. Their haire grew so, as in time it

hung downe to their hammes, so heauily, that it was troublesome for them to beare it,* 6.407 for they did neuer cut it, vntill they dyed, or that they were dispensed with for their great age, or being employed in gouernments or some honorable charge in the Commonwealth. They carried their haire in tresses, of sixe fingers breadth, which they dyed blacke with the fume of Sapine, of Firre trees, or Rosin; for in all Antiquitie it hath beene an offering they made vnto their Idols, and for this cause it was much esteemed and reuerenced They were alwayes dyed with this tincture from the foot to the head, so as they were like vnto shining Negroes, and that was their ordinary Vnction: yet when as they went to sacrifice and giue Incense in the Mountaines, or on the tops thereof, or in any darke and obscure Caues, where their Idols were, they vsed an other kinde of vnction very different, doing certaine ceremonies to take away feare, and to giue them courage. [ 10] This vnction was made with diuers little venemous beasts, as Spiders, Scorpions, Palmers, Sala∣manders and Vipers, the which the Boyes in the Colledges tooke and gathered together, where∣in they were so expert, as they were alwayes furnished when the Priests called for them. The chiefe care of these Boyes was, to hunt after these beasts; if they went any other way, and by chance met with any of these beasts, they stayed to take them, with as great paine, as if their liues depended thereon. By the reason whereof the Indians commonly feared not these vene∣mous beasts, making no more account then if they were not so, hauing beene all bred in this ex∣ercise. To make an ointment of these beasts, they tooke them all together, and burnt them vpon the harth of the Temple, which was before the Altar▪ vntill they were consumed ••o ashes: then did they put them in Morters with much Tobacco or Petum (being an herbe that Nation vseth [ 20] much, to benum the flesh, that they may not feele their trauel) with the which they mingle the ashes, making them lose their force; they did likewise mingle with these ashes, Scorpions, Spi∣ders, and Palmers aliue, mingling all together, then did they put to it a certaine seede being grownd, which they call Ololuchqui, whereof the Indians make a drinke to see visions,* 6.408 for that the vertue of this herbe is to depriue man of sense. They did likewise grinde with these ashes blacke and hayrie wormes, whose haire onely is venemous, all which they mingled together with blacke, or the fume of Rosin, putting it in small pots, which they set before their god, say∣ing it was his meat. And therefore they called it a diuine meat.* 6.409 By meanes of this ointment they became Witches, and did see and speake with the Deuill. The Priests being sl••bbered with [ 30] this ointment, lost all feare, putting on a Spirit of crueltie. By reason whereof they did very boldly kill men in their sacrifices, going all alone in the night to the Mountaines, and into ob∣scure Caues, contemning all wilde beasts, and holding it for certaine and approued, that both Lions, Tigres, Serpents, and other furious beasts which breed in the Mountaines, and Forests, fled from them, by the vertue of this Petum of their god.

And in truth, though this Petum had no power to make them flie, yet was the Deuils picture sufficient whereinto they were transformed. This Petum did also serue to cure the sicke, and for children: and therefore all called it the diuine Physicke: and so they came from all parts to the Superiors and Priests, as to their Sauiours, that they might apply this diuine physicke, where∣with they anointed those parts that were grieued. They said that they felt hereby a notable ease, [ 40] which might be, for that Tobacco and Ololuchqui haue this propertie of themselues,* 6.410 to benum the flesh, being applyed in manner of an emplayster, which must bee by a stronger reason being mingled with poysons, and for that it did appease and benum the paine, they held it for an effect of health, and a diuine vertue. And therefore ran they to these Priests as to holy men, who kept the blinde and ignorant in this error, perswading them what they pleased, and making them runne after their inuentions and deuillish ceremonies, their authoritie being such, as their wordes were sufficient to induce beliefe as an article of their Faith. And thus made they a thousand su∣perstitions among the vulgar people, in their manner of offering Incense, in cutting their haire, tying small flowers about their necks, and strings with small bones of Snakes, commanding them to bathe at a certaine time; and that they should watch all night at the harth, lest the fire should [ 50] die, that they should eate no other bread but that which had beene offered to their gods, that they should vpon any occasion repayre vnto their Witches,* 6.411 who with certaine graines told for∣tunes, and diuined, looking into Keelers and Pailes full of water. The Sorcerers and Ministers of the Deuill vsed much to besmeare themselues. There were an infinite number of these Witches, Diuiners, Enchanters, and other false prophets. There remaynes yet at this day of this infection, although they bee secret, not daring publikely to exercise their sacrileges, deuillish ceremonies and superstitions, but their abuses and wickednesse are discouered more at large and particularly in the confessions made by the Prelates of Peru.

There is a kinde of Sorcerers amongst the Indians allowed by the Kings Inguas,* 6.412 which are as it were Sooth-sayers, they take vpon them what forme and figure they please, flying far through [ 60] the aire in a short time, beholding all that was done. They talke with the Deuill, who answereth them in certaine stones or other things which they reuerence much. They serue as Conju∣rers, to tell what hath passed in the farthest parts, before any newes can come. As it hath chanced since the Spaniards arriued there, that in the distance of two or three hundred leagues, they haue knowne the Mutinies, Battailes, Rebellions, and Deaths, both of Tyrants, and of

those of the Kings partie, and of priuate men, the which haue beene knowne the same day they chanced, or the day after, a thing impossible by the course of nature. To worke this diuination, they shut themselues into a house, and became drunke vntill they lost their senses, a day after they answered to that which was demanded. Some affirme they vse certaine Vnctions. The In∣dians say, that the old women doe commonly vse this office of witchcraft, and specially those of one Prouince, which they call Coaillo, and of another Towne called Manchey, and of the Pro∣uince of Guarochiri. They likewise shew what is become of things stollen and lost. There are of these kindes of Sorcerers in all parts, to whom commonly doe come the Anaconas, and Cyua, which serue the Spaniards, and when they haue lost any thing of their Masters, or when they desire to know the successe of things past or to come, as when they goe to the Spaniards Cities for their priuate affaires, or for the publike, they demand if their voyage shall bee prosperous, if [ 10] they shall be sick, if they shall die, or returne sate, if they shall obtaine that which they pretend: and the Witches or Conjurers answer, Yea, or No, hauing first spoken with the Deuill, in an ob∣scure place: so as these Anaconas do well heare the sound of the voyce, but they see not to whom these Conjurers speake, neither doe they vnderstand what they say. They make a thousand ce∣remonies and sacrifices to this effect, with the which they mocke the Deuill and grow excee∣ding drunke, for the doing whereof, they particularly vse an herb called Villea, the j••yce where∣of they mingle with their Chica, or take it in some other sort.

* 6.413THe Indians had an infinite number of other ceremonies and customes, which resembled to the ancient Law of Moses, and some to those which the Moores vse, and some approched [ 20] neere to the Law of the Gospell, as their Bathes or Opacuna, as they call them: they did wash themselues in water, to clense them from their sinnes. The Mexicans had also amongst them a kinde of Baptisme, the which they did with ceremonie, cutting the eares and members of young children new borne, counterfaiting in some sort the Circumcision of the Iewes. This ceremonie was done principally to the sonnes of Kings and Noblemen: presently vpon their birth the Priests did wash them, and did put a little Sword in the right hand, and in the left a Target. And to the Children of the vulgar sort, they put the markes of their offices, and to their Daughters in∣struments to spin, knit, and labour. This ceremonie continued foure dayes, being made before some Idoll.* 6.414 They contracted marriage after their manner, whereof the Licenciate Pollo hath written a whole Treatise, and I will speake somewhat thereon hereafter. In other things their [ 30] customes and ceremonies haue some shew of reason. The Mexicans were married by the hands of their Priests in this sort. The Bridegroome and the Bride stood together before the Priest, who tooke them by the hands, asking them if they would marry; then hauing vnderstood their wills, he tooke a corner of the vaile wherewith the woman had her head couered, and a corner of the mans gowne the which he tyed together on a knot, and so led them thus tyed to the Bride∣groomes house, where there was a harth kindled, and then he caused the wife to goe seuen times about the harth, and so the married couple sate downe together, and thus was the marriage con∣tracted. The Mexicans were very jealous of the integritie of their wiues: so as if they found they were not as they ought to bee (the which they knew either by signes or dishonest wordes) they presently gaue notice thereof to their fathers and kinsfolks of their wiues, to their great shame [ 40] and dishonor, for that they had not kept good guard ouer them. When they went to the house they made an Inuentorie of all the man and wife brought together, of prouisions for the house, of land, of jewels and ornaments, which Inuentories euery father kept, for if it chanced they made any diuorce (as it was common amongst them when they agree not) they diuided their goods ac∣cording to the portion that euery one brought, euery one hauing libertie in such a case, to marry whom they pleased: and they gaue the Daughters to the Wife, and the Sonnes to the Husband. It was defended vpon paine of death, not to marry againe together, the which they obserued ve∣ry strictly. And although it seeme that many of their ceremonies agree with ours, yet differ they much for the great abomination they mingle therewithall. It is common and generall to haue vsually one of these three things, either Crueltie, Filthinesse, or Slouth: for all their cere∣monies [ 50] were cruell and hurtfull, as to kill men and to spill bloud; or filthy and beastly, as to eate and drinke to the name of their Idols, and also to pisse in the honour of them, carrying them vp∣on their shoulders, to anoint and besmeare themselues filthily, and to doe a thousand sorts of vil∣lanies, which were at the least, vaine, ridiculous, and idle, and more like the actions of children, then of men. Whereas the temporall power was greatest, there superstition hath most increa∣sed, as we see in the Realmes of Mexico and Cusco, where it is incredible to see the number of Idols they had:* 6.415 for within the Citie of Mexico there were aboue three hundred. Mango Ingua Yupangui, amongst the Kings of Cusco, was he that most augmented the seruice of their Idols, in∣uenting a thousand kindes of sacrifices, feasts, and ceremonies. The like did King Iscoalt in [ 60] Mexico, who was the fourth King. There was also a great number of superstitions and sacrifices in other Nations of the Indians, as in the Prouince of Guatimala, at the Ilands in the new King∣dome, in the Prouince of Chille, and others that were like Commonwealths and Comminalties. But it was nothing in respect of Mexico and Cusco, where Satan was as in Rome, or in his Ierusalem.

The Inguas Lords of Peru, had two kindes of Feasts. Some were ordinarie, which fell out in certayne moneths of the yeere: and others extraordinarie,* 6.416 which were for certayne causes of importance, as when they did crowne a new King, when they beganne some warre of importance, when they had any great need of water or drought, or o∣ther like things. For the ordinary Feasts, wee must vnderstand, that euery moneth of the yeere they made Feasts, and diuers Sacrifices, and although all of them had this alike, that they offered a hundred sheepe: yet in colour, and in forme they are very diuers. In the first moneth which they call Rayme, which is the moneth of December, they made their first Feast, which was the principall of all others, and for that cause they called it Capacrayme, which is to [ 10] say, A rich and principall Feast. In this Feast they offered a great number of sheepe and Lambes in Sacrifice, and they burnt them with sweet wood, then they caused Gold and Siluer to bee brought vpon certayne sheepe, setting vpon them three Images of the Sunne, and three of the Thunder, the Father, the Sonne, and the Brother. In these Feasts they dedicated the Inguas chil∣dren, putting Guaras, or Ensignes vpon them, and they pierced their eares: then some old man did whip them with slings, and annoynted their faces with bloud, all in signe that they should be true Knights to the Ingua. No stranger might remayne in Cusco during this moneth, and this Feast, but at the end thereof they entred, and they gaue vnto them pieces of the paste of Mays with the bloud of the Sacrifice, which they did eate in signe of confederation with the Ingua, as hath beene said before. It is strange that the Deuill after his manner hath brought a Trinitie into Idolatry, for the three Images of the Sunne called Apomti, Churunti,* 6.417 and Intiquaoqui which [ 20] signifieth Father and Lord Sunne, the Sonne Sunne, and the Brother Sunne. In the like manner they named the three Images of Chuquilla, which is the God that rules in the Region of the Ayre, where it Thunders, Raines and Snowes. I remember, that beeing in Cuquisaca, an ho∣nourable Priest shewed me an information, which I had long in my hands, where it was proo∣ued that there was a certayne Guaca or Oratory, whereas the Indians did worship an Idoll cal∣led Tangatanga, which they said was one in three, and three in one. Comming then to the Feast of the second moneth, which they called Camey, besides the Sacrifices which they made,* 6.418 they did cast the ashes into the Riuer, following fiue or sixe leagues after, praying it to carry them into the Sea, for that the Virochoca should there receiue this present. In the third, fourth and [ 30] fift moneth, they offered a hundred blacke sheepe, speckled, and grey, with many other things, which I omit for being too tedious. The sixt moneth is called Hatuncuzqui Aymorey, which answereth to May, in the which they sacrificed a hundred sheepe more, of all colours: in this Moone and moneth, which is when they bring May from the fields into the house, they made a Feast, which is yet very vsuall among the Indians, and they doe call it Aymorey.* 6.419

This Feast is made comming from the Chacra or Farme vnto the house, saying certayne Songs, and praying that the Mays may long continue, the which they call Mamacora. They take a certayne portion of the most fruitfull of the Mays that growes in their Farmes, the which they put in a certayne Granier which they doe call Pirua, with certayne Ceremonies, watching three nights: they put this Mays in the richest garments they haue, and being thus wrapped and dres∣sed, [ 40] they worship this Pirua, and hold it in great veneration, saying it is the Mother of the Mays of their Inheritances, and that by this meanes the Mays augments and is preserued. In this moneth they make a particular Sacrifice, and the Witches demand of this Pirua, if it hath strength sufficient to continue vntill the next yeere: and if it answeres No, then they carry this Mays to the Farme to burne, whence they brought it, according to euery mans power; then make they another Pirua, with the same Ceremonies, saying, that they renew it, to the end the Seed of Mays may not perish, and if it answers that it hath force sufficient to last longer, they leaue it vntill the next yeere. This foolish vanitie continueth to this day, and it is very common a∣mongst the Indians to haue these Piruas, and to make the Feast of Aymorey. The seuenth moneth answereth to Iune, and is called Aucaycuzqui Intiraymi, in it they made the Feast that is called Intiraymi, in the which they sacrificed a hundred sheepe called Guanacos, and said it was [ 50] the Feast of the Sunne. In this moneth they made many Images of Quinua wood carued,* 6.420 all attired with rich garments, and they made their dancings which they doe call Cayo. At this Feast they cast flowers in the high wayes, and thither the Indians came painted, and their No∣blemen had small plates of Gold vpon their beards, and all did sing; we must vnderstand that this Feast falleth almost at the same time,* 6.421 when as the Christians obserue the Solemnitie of the holy Sacrament, which doth resemble it in some sort, as in dancing, singing and representations. And for this cause there hath beene, and is yet among the Indians (which celebrated a Feast somewhat like to ours of the holy Sacrament) many Superstitions in celebrating this ancient Feast of Inti∣raymi. The eight moneth is called Chahua Huarqui, in the which they did burne a hundred sheep [ 60] more, all grey, of the colour of Viscacha, according to the former order, which moneth doth an∣swere to our Iuly. The ninth moneth was called Yapaguis, in which they burnt an hundred sheepe more, of a Chesnut colour; and they doe likewise kill and burne a thousand Cuyes, to the end that neither the Frost, the Ayre, the water▪ nor the Sunne should hurt their Farmes: and this moneth doth answere vnto August. The tenth moneth was called Coyarami, in the which

they burnt a hundred white sheepe that had fleeces. In this moneth which answereth to Sep∣tember,* 6.422 they made the Feast called Situa, in this manner. They assembled together the first day of the Moone before the rising thereof: and in seeing it they cryed aloude, carrying Torches in their hands, and saying, Let all harme goe away, striking one another with their Torches. They that did this, were called Panconcos: which being done, they went to the common Bath, to the Riuers and Fountaines, and euery one to his owne Bath, setting themselues to drinke foure dayes together. In this moneth the Mamacomas of the Sunne made a great number of small Loaues with the bloud of the Sacrifices, and gaue a piece to euery stranger; yea, they sent to euery Guaca throughout the Realme, and to many Curacas, in signe of confederation and loyaltie to the Sun and the Ingua, as hath beene said.

The Bathes, drunkennesse and some Relickes of this Feast Situa, remayne euen vnto this day, [ 10] in some places, with the Ceremonies a little different, but yet very secretly, for that these chife and principall Feasts haue ceased. The eleuenth moneth Homaraymi Punchaiquis, wherein they sacrficed a hundred sheepe more. And if they wanted water, to procure raine, they set a blacke sheepe tyed in the middest of a Plaine, powring much Chica about it, and giuing it nothing to eate vntill it rayned, which is practised at this day in many places, in the time of our October. The twelfth and last moneth was called Aymara, wherein they did likewise sacrifice a hun∣dred sheepe, and made the Feast called Raymicantara Raquis. In this moneth which answered to our Nouember, they prepared what was necessary for the Children that should bee made Noui∣ces, the moneth following, the Children with the old men made a certayne shew, with rounds and turnings: and this Feast was called Ituraymi, which commonly they make when it raines [ 20] too much, or too little, or when there is a plague.

Among the extraordinary Feasts which were very many, the most famous was that which they called Ytu. This Feast Ytu hath no prefixed time nor season, but in time of necessitie. To prepare themselues thereunto, all the people fasted two dayes, during the which they did neither company with their wiues, nor eate any meate with Salt or Garlicke, nor drinke any Chica. All did assemble together in one place, where no stranger was admitted, nor any beast: they had Garments and Ornaments, which serued onely for this Feast. They marched very quietly in Procession, their heads couered with their Ve••les, sounding of Drummes, without speaking one to another. This continued a day and a night; then the day [ 30] following they danced and made good cheere for two dayes and two nights together, saying, that their Prayer was accepted. And although that this Feast is not vsed at this day, with all this ancient Ceremony, yet commonly they make another which is very like, which they call Ayma, with Garments that serue onely to that end, and they make this kinde of Procession with their Drummes, hauing fasted before, then after they make good cheere, which they v∣sually doe in their vrgent necessities. And although the Indians forbeare to sacrifice beasts, or o∣ther things publikely, which cannot be hidden from the Spaniards, yet doe they still vse many Ceremonies that haue their beginnings from these Feasts and ancient Superstitions: for at this day they doe couertly make this Feast of Ytu, at the dances of the Feast of the Sacrament, in making the dances of Lyamallama, and of Guacon, and of others, according to their ancient Ce∣remonies. [ 40]

* 6.423THe Mexicans haue beene no lesse curious in their Feasts and Solemnities, which were of small charge, but of great effusion of mans bloud. We haue before spoken of the principall Feast of Vitziliputzli, after the which the Feast of Tezcalipuca was most solemnized. This Feast fell in May, and in their Kalender they called it Tozcolt: it fell euery foure yeere with the feast of Penance, where there was giuen full indulgence and remission of sinnes. In this day they did sacrifice a Captiue which resembled the Idoll Tezcalipuca, it was the nineteenth day of May: vpon the Euen of this Feast, the Noblemen came to the Temple, bringing a new Garment like vnto that of the Idoll, the which the Priest put vpon him, hauing first taken off his other Gar∣ments, which they kept with as much, or more reuerence then wee doe our Ornaments. There [ 50] were in the Coffers of the Idoll many Ornaments, Iewels, Earerings, and other Riches, as Bracelets, and precious Feathers which serued to no other vse, but to be there, and was worship∣ped as their God it selfe. Besides the Garment wherewith they worshipped the Idoll that day, they put vpon him certayne ensignes of Feathers, with fannes, shadowes and other things, be∣ing thus attired and furnished, they drew the Curtayn or Veile from before the doore, to the end he might be seene of all men: then came forth one of the chiefe of the Temple, attyred like to the Idoll, carrying flowres in his hand, and a Flute of earth▪ hauing a very sharpe sound, and tur∣ning towards the East, he sounded it, and then looking to the West, North and South he did the like. And after he had thus sounded towards the foure parts of the World (shewing that both they that were present and absent did heare him) he put his finger into the Ai••e, and then gathe∣red [ 60] vp earth, which hee put in his mouth, and did eate it in signe of adoration. The like did all they that were present, and weeping, they fell flat to the ground, inuocating the darknesse of the night, and the winds, intreating them not to leaue them, nor to forget them, or else to take away

their liues, and free them from the labours they endured therein. Theeues, Adulterers, and Murtherers, and all other offenders had great feare and heauinesse, whilest this Flute sounded; so as some could not dissemble nor hide their offences. By this meanes they all demanded no o∣ther thing of their God, but to haue their offences concealed, powring forth many teares, with great repentance and sorrow, offering great store of Incense to appease their Gods. The couragi∣ous and valiant men, and all the old Souldiers, that followed the art of Warre, hearing this Flute, demanded with great deuotion of God the Creator, of the Lord for whom we liue, of the Sun, and of other their Gods, that they would giue them victory against their enemies, & strength to take many Captiues, there with to honour their Sacrifices. This Ceremony was done ten dayes be∣fore [ 10] the Feast: During which ten dayes the Priest did sound this Flute, to the end that all might doe this worship in eating of earth, and demand of their Idoll what they pleased: they euery day made their Prayers, with their eyes lift vp to Heauen, and with sighs and groanings, as men that were grieued for their sinnes and offences. Although this contrition was onely for feare of the corporall punishment that was giuen them, and not for any feare of the eternall, for they certainly beleeued there was no such seuere punishment in the other life.* 6.424 And therefore they offered themselues voluntarily to death, holding opinion that it is to all men an assured rest.

The first day of the Feast of this Idoll Tezcalipuca beeing come, all they of the Citie assem∣bled together in a Court, to celebrate likewise the Feast of the Kalender, whereof we haue al∣ready spoken, which was called Toxcoalth, which signifies A dry thing: which Feast was not [ 20] made to any other end, but to demand raine, in the same manner that wee solemnize the Rogati∣ons: and this Feast was alwayes in May, which is the time that they haue most need of raine in those Countreyes. They beganne to celebrate it the ninth of May, ending the nineteenth. The last day of the Feast the Priests drew forth a Litter well furnished with Curtaynes and Pendants of diuers fashions. This Litter had so many armes to hold by as there were Ministers to carrie it. All which came forth besmeered with blacke and long haire, halfe in tresses with white strings, and attyred in the liuery of the Idoll. Vpon this Litter they set the personage of the Idoll, appointed for this Feast, which they called the resemblance of their God Tezcalipuca, and taking it vpon their shoulders, they brought it openly to the foot of the staires: then came forth the young men and Maydens of the Temple, carrying a great coard wreathed of chaines [ 30] of roasted Mays, with the which they enuironed the Litter, and putting a chaine of the same about the Idols necke, and a Garland vpon his head. They called the coard Toxcalt, signifying the drought and barrennesse of the time. The young men came wrapped in red Curtaines, with Garlands and chaines of roasted Mays. The Maydes were clothed in new Garments, wearing chaines about theirs neckes of roasted Mays; and vpon their heads Mytres made of rods couered with this Mays, they had their feet couered with feathers, and their armes and cheekes painted. They brought much of this roasted Mays, and the chiefe men put it vpon their heads, and about their neckes, taking flowres in their hands. The Idoll being placed in his Litter, they strewed round about a great quantitie of the boughes of Manguey, the leaues whereof are large and pricking.

[ 40] This Litter being set vpon the religious mens shoulders, they carried it in Procession within the circuit of the Court, two Priests marching before with Censors, giuing often Incense to the Idoll; and euery time they gaue Incense, they lifted vp their armes as high as they could to the Idoll, and to the Sunne, saying, that they lifted vp their Prayers to Heauen, euen as the smoke ascended on high. Then all the people in the Court turned round to the place whither the Idoll went, euery one carrying in his hand new coards of the threed of the Manguey., a fadome long, with a knot at the end, and with them they whipped themselues vpon the shoulders▪ euen as they doe here vpon holy Thursday. All the wals of the Court and Battlements were full of boughes and flowres, so fresh and pleasant, as it did giue a great contentment. This Procession being ended, they brought the Idoll to his vsuall place of abode. Then came a great multitude of [ 50] people with flowres, dressed in diuers sorts, wherewith they filled the Temple and all the Court, so as it seemed the ornament of an Oratory. All this was put in order by the Priests, the young men administring these things vnto them from without. The Chappell or Chamber where the Idoll remayned was all this day open without any Veile.

This done, euery one came and offered Curtines, and pendants of Sandally, precious Stones, Iewels, Incence, sweet wood, Grapes, or eares of Mays, Quailes: and finally, all they were ac∣customed to offer in such solemnities. When as they offered Quailes (which was the poore mans offering) they vsed this ceremonie, they deliuered them to the Priests, who taking them, pulled off their heads, and cast them at the foote of the Altar, where they lost their bloud, and so they did of all other things which were offered. Euery one did offer meate and fruite accor∣ding [ 60] to their power, the which was laid at the foote of the Altar, and the Ministers gathered them vp, and carried them to their Chambers. This solemne offering done, the people went to dinner, euery one to his village or house, leauing the feast suspended vntill after dinner. In the meane time, the yong Men and Maidens of the Temple, with their ornaments, were busied to serue the Idoll, with all that was appointed for him to eate: which meate was prepared by

other women, who had made a vow that day to serue the Idoll. And therefore such as had made this vow, came by the point of day, offering themselues to the Deputies of the Temple, that they might command them what they would haue done, the which they did carefully per∣forme. They did prepare such variety of meates, as it was admirable. This meate being ready, and the houre of dinner come, all these Virgins went out of the Temple in procession, euery one carrying a little basket of bread in her hand, and in the other, a dish of these meates; before them marched an old man, like to a steward, with a pleasant habit, he was cloathed in a white Surples downe to the calues of his legges, vpon a doublet without sleeues of red leather, like to a iacket, he carried wings instead of sleeues, from the which hung broad ribbands, at the which did hang a small Calibasse or pumpion, which was couered with flowers, by little holes that were made in it, and within it were many superstitious things. This old man thus attyred, marched very [ 10] humbly and heauily before the preparation, with his head declining: and comming neere the foote of the staires, he made a great obeisance and reuerence. Then going on the one side, the Virgins drew neere with the meate, presenting it in order one after another, with great reue∣rence. This seruice presented, the old man returned as before, leading the Virgins into their conuent. This done, the yong men and ministers of the Temple, came forth and gathered vp this meate, the which they carried to the Chambers of the chiefe Priests of the Temple, who had fasted fiue dayes, eating onely once a day, and they had also abstained from their wiues, not once going out of the Temple in these fiue dayes. During the which they did whip themselues rigorously with cords; they did eate of this diuine meate (for so they called it) what they could, was it Lawfull for any other to eate thereof. All the people hauing dined, they assembled againe [ 20] in the court to see the end of the feast, whither they brought a captiue, which by the space of a whole yeare, had represented the Idoll, being attired, decked, and honoured, as the Idoll it selfe, and doing all reuerence vnto him, they deliuered him into the hands of the sacrificers, who at that instant presented themselues, taking him by the feete and hands. The Pope did open his stomacke, and pull out his heart, then did he lift vp his hand as high as he could, shewing it to the Sunne, and to the Idoll, as hath beene said. Hauing thus sacrificed him that represented the Idoll, they went into a holy place appointed for this purpose, whither came the yong Men and Virgins of the Temple, with their ornaments, the which being put in order, they danced and sung with Drummes and other instruments, on the which the chiefe Priests did play and sound. Then came all the Noblemen with ensignes and ornaments like to the yong men, who danced [ 30] round about them. They did not vsually kill any other men that day, but him that was sacrifi∣ced, yet euery fourth yeare they had others with him, which was in the yeare of Iubile and full pardons. After Sunne set, euery one being satisfied with sounding, eating, and drinking, the Vir∣gins went all to their conuent, they tooke great dishes of earth full of bread mixt with hony, co∣uered with small panniers, wrought and fashioned with dead mens heads and bones, and they carried the collation to the Idoll, mounting vp to the Court, which was before the doore of the Oratorie: and hauing set them downe, they retired in the same order as they came, the steward going still before. Presently came forth all the yong men in order, with canes or reedes in their hands, who began to runne as fast as they could to the top of the staires of the Temple, who should come first to the dishes of the collation. The Elders or chiefe Priests obserued him [ 40] that came first, second, third, and fourth, without regarding the rest. This collation was like∣wise all carried away by the yong men, as great Relicks. This done, the foure that arriued first were placed in the midst of the Ancients of the Temple, bringing them to their chambers with much honour, praising them, and giuing them ornaments; and from thence forth they were re∣spected and reuerenced as men of marke. The taking of this collation being ended, and the feast celebrated with much ioy and noise, they dismissed all the yong men and maides which had ser∣ued the Idoll; by meanes whereof they went one after another, as they came forth. All the small children of the Colledges and Schooles, were at the gate of the court, with bottomes of rushes and hearbs in their hands, which they cast at them, mocking and laughing, as of them that came from the seruice of the Idoll: they had liberty then to dispose of themselues at their plea∣sure, [ 50] and thus the Feast ended.

* 6.425ALthough I haue spoken sufficiently of the seruice the Mexicans did vnto their gods; yet will I speake something of the feast they called Quetzacoalt, which was the god of riches, the which was solemnised in this manner. Fortie dayes before the Marchants bought a slaue well proportioned, without any fault or blemish, either of sicknesse or of hurt, which they did attire with the ornaments of the Idoll, that he might represent it forty dayes. Before his cloathing they did clense him, washing him twice in a lake, which they called the lake of the gods; and being purified, they attired him like the Idoll. During these forty dayes, he was much respected for his sake whom he represented. By night they did imprison him (as hath [ 60] beene said) lest he should flye, and in the morning they tooke him out of prison, setting him vpon an eminent place, where they serued him, giuing him exquisite meates to eate. After he had eaten, they put a chaine of flowers about his necke, and many nosegaies in his hand. He

had a well appointed guard, with much people to accompany him. When he went through the Citie, he went dancing and singing through all the streetes, that he might be knowne for the resemblance of their god, and when he beganne to sing, the women and little children came forth of their houses to salute him, and to offer vnto him as to their god. Two old men of the Ancients of the Temple, came vnto him nine dayes before the feast, and humbling themselues before him, they said with a low and submisse voyce, Sir, you must vnderstand that nine dayes hence the exercise of dancing and singing doth end, and thou must then dye; and then he must an∣swer, ••n a good houre. They call this ceremony, Neyola Maxiltleztli, which is to say, the ad∣uertisement: and when they did thus aduertise him, they tooke very carefull heede whither he [ 10] were said, or if he danced as ioyfully as he was accustomed, the which if he did not as cheere∣fully as they desired, they made a foolish superstition in this manner. They presently tooke the sacrificing rasors, the which they washed and clensed from the bloud of men, which remained of the former sacrifices. Of this washing they made a drinke mingled with another liquor made of Cacao, giuing it him to drinke; they said that this would make him forget what had beene said vnto him, and would make him in a manner insensible, returning to his former dancing and mirth. They said moreouer, that he would offer himselfe cheerefully to death, being inchanted with this drinke. The cause why they sought to take from him this heauinesse, was, for that they held it for an ill augure, and a fore-telling of some great harme. The day of the Feast being come, after they had done him much honour, sung, and giuen him incense, the sacrificers tooke [ 20] him about midnight and did sacrifice him, as hath beene said, offering his heart vnto the Moone, the which they did afterwards cast against the Idoll, letting the body fall to the bottome of the staires of the Temple, where such as had offered him tooke him vp, which were the Marchants, whose feast it was. Then hauing carried him into the chiefest mans house amongst them, the body was drest with diuers sawces, to celebrate (at the breake of day) the banquet and dinner of the feast, hauing first bid the Idoll good morrow, with a small dance, which they made whilst the day did breake, and that they prepared the sacrifice. Then did all the Marchants assemble at this banket, especially those which made it a trafficke to buy and sell slaues, who were bound euery yeere to offer one, for the resemblance of their god. This Idoll was one of the most hono∣red in all the Land: and therefore the Temple where he was, was of a great authoritie.* 6.426 There [ 30] were threescore staires to ascend vp vnto it, and on the top was a Court of an indifferent large∣nesse, very finely drest and plastered, in the midst whereof, was a great round thing like ••nto an Ouen, hauing the entrie low and narrow: so as they must stoope very low that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 enter unto it. This Temple had Chambers and Chappels as the rest, where there were conuents of Priests, yong Men, Maides, and Children, as hath beene said: and there was one Priest alone re∣sident continually, the which they changed weekely: For although there were in euery one of these Temples, three or foure Curates or Ancients, yet did euery one serue his weeke without parting.* 6.427 His charge that weeke (after he had instructed the children) was to strike vp a Drum euery day at the Sunne-setting, to the same end that we are accustomed to ring to Euensong. This Drum was such as they might heare the house sound thereof throughout all the parts of the [ 40] Citie, then euery man shut vp his merchandise, and retired vnto his house, and there was so great a silence, as there seemed to be no liuing creature in the Towne. In the morning when as the day began to breake, they began to sound the Drum, which was a signe of the day beginning, so as trauellers and strangers attended this signall to begin their iournies, for till that time it was not lawfull to goe out of the Citie.

There was in this Temple a Court of reasonable greatnesse, in the which they made great dances, and pastimes, with games or comedies the day of the Idols feast; for which purpose there was in the middest of this court a Theatre of thirty foote square very finely decked and trim∣med, the which they decked with flowers that day, with all the art and inuention that might be, being inuironed round with Arches of diues flowers and feathers, and in some places there [ 50] were tied many small Birds, Conies, and other tame beasts. After dinner all the people assem∣bled in this place, and the Players presented themselues and plaied Comedies,* 6.428 some counterfeit the deafe, and the rheumatike, others the lame, some the blinde, and without hands, which came to seeke for cure of the Idoll, the deafe answered confusedly, the rheumaticke did cough, the lame halted, telling their miseries and griefes, wherewith they made the people to laugh; others come forth in the forme of little beasts, some were attired like Snailes, others like Toades, and some like Lizards: then meeting together, they told their offices, and euery one retyring to his place, they sounded on small flutes, which was pleasant to heare. They likewise counter∣feited Butterflies and small Birds of diuers colours, and the children of the Temple represented these formes, then they went into a little Forrest planted there for the nonce, where the Priests [ 60] of the Temple drew them forth with instruments of musicke. In the meane time they vsed ma∣ny pleasant speeches, some in propounding, others in defending, wherewith the assistants were pleasantly intertained. This done, they made a Maske or Mummerie with all these personages, and so the Feast ended: the which were vsually done in their prin∣cipall Feasts.

CHAP. VI. Ciuill Customes and Arts of the INDIANS taken out of ACOSTAS 6. Boooke.

I Will first shew in what sort the Mexicans counted and diuided their yeere, their moneths,* 6.429 their Kalender, their computations, their worlds and ages. They di∣uided the yeare into eighteene moneths, to which they gaue twentie dayes, wherein the three hundred and threescore dayes are accomplished, not compre∣hending [ 10] in any of these Moneths the fiue daies that remaine, and make the yeare perfect.* 6.430 But they did reckon them apart, and called them the dayes of nothing: during the which, the people did not any thing, neither went they to their Temples, but oc∣cupied themselues onely in visiting one another, and so spent the time: the sacrificers of the Temple did likewise cease their sacrifices. These fiue dayes being past, they began the computa∣tion of the yeare, whereof the first moneth and beginning was in March, when the leaues be∣gan to grow greene,* 6.431 although they tooke three dayes of the moneth of February; for the first day of their yeare was, as it were, the six and twentieth day of February, as appeareth by their Kalender, within the which ours is likewise comprehended and contained with a very ingeni∣ous Art, which was made by the ancient Indians that knew the first Spaniards. I haue seene [ 20] this Kalender, and haue it yet in my custodie, which well deserueth the sight, to vnderstand the discourse and industrie the Mexican Indians had. Euerie one of these eighteene moneths had his proper name, and his proper picture, the which was commonly taken of the principall Feast that was made in that moneth, or from the diuersitie of times, which the yeare caused in that moneth. They had in this Kalender certaine daies marked and distinguished for their feasts. And they accounted their weekes by thirteene dayes, marking the daies with a Zero or cipher, which they multiplied vnto thirteene,* 6.432 and then began to count, one, two, &c. They did like∣wise marke the yeares of these wheeles, with foure signes or figures, attributing to euerie yeare a peculiar signe, whereof one was of a House, another of a Conie, the third of a Reede, and the fourth of a Flint. They painted them in this sort, noting by those figures the yeare that did [ 30] runne, saying of so many Houses, of so many Flints, of such a Wheele, happened such a thing. For we must vnderstand that their wheele, which was an age, contained foure weekes of yeares, euerie weeke containing thirteene yeares, which in all made fiftie two yeares. In the midst of this wheele they painted a Sun, from the which went foure beames or lines in crosse to the circumfe∣rence of the wheele, and they made their course, euen as the circumference was diuided into foure equall parts, euerie one with his line, hauing a distinct colour from the rest, and the foure colours were, Greene, Blew, Red, and Yellow: euery portion of these foure had thirteene separations which had all their signes or particular figures, of a House, a Conie, a Reede, or a Flint, noting by euery signe a yeare, and vpon the head of this signe they painted what had happened that yeare.

And therefore I did see in the Kalender mentioned the yeare when the Spaniards entered [ 40] Mexico, marked by the picture of a man clad in red, after our manner, for such was the habit of the first Spaniard, whom Fernando Cortes sent, at the end of the two and fiftie yeares, which fi∣nished the wheele. They vsed a pleasant ceremonie, which was, the last night they did breake all their vessels and stuffe, and put out their fire, and all the lights, saying, that the world should end at the finishing of one of these wheeles, and it might be at that time: for (said they) seeing the world must then end, what neede is there to prouide meate to eate, and therefore they had no further neede of Vessels nor fire. Vpon this conceit they passed the night in great feare, say∣ing, it might happen there would be no more day, and they watched verie carefully for the day; when they saw the day begin to breake, they presently beat many Drums, and sounded Cor∣nets, Flutes, and other instruments of ioy and gladnesse, saying, that God did yet prolong the [ 50] time with another age, which were fiftie two yeares. And then began another wheele. The first day and beginning of this age they tooke new fire,* 6.433 and bought new Vessels to dresse their meate, and all went to the high Priest for this new fire, hauing first made a solemne Sacrifice, and giuen thanks for the comming of the day, and prolongation of another age. This was their manner of accounting their yeares, moneths, weekes, and ages.

* 6.434ALthough this supputation of times practised amongst the Mexicans, be ingenious enough and certaine, for men that had no learning; yet in my opinion they wanted discourse and consideration, hauing not grounded their computation according vnto the course of the Moone, nor distributed their months accordingly, wherein those of Peru haue farre surpassed them: for they diuided their yeare into as manie daies, perfectly accomplished as we doe here, and into [ 60] twelue moneths or Moones,* 6.435 in the which they imploied and consumed the eleuen daies that re∣maind of the Moone, as Polo writes. To make the computation of their yeare sure and certaine, they vsed this industrie; vpon the Mountaines which are about the Citie of Cusco (where the

Kings Inguas held their Court, being the greatest sanctuarie of those Realms, and as we should say another Rome) there were twelue Pillars set in order, and in such distance the one from the o∣ther, as euerie moneth one of these Pillars did note the rising and setting of the Sunne. They called them Succanga, by meanes whereof they taught and shewed, the Feasts,* 6.436 and the seasons fit to sowe and reape, and to doe other things. They did certaine sacrifices to these Pillars of the Sunne. Euery moneth had his proper name, and peculiar Feasts. They began the yeare by Ia∣nuarie as we doe. But since, a King Ingua called Pachacuto, which signifies a reformer of the Tem∣ple, began their yeare by December, by reason (as I coniectu••e) that then the Sunne returneth from the last point of Capricorne, which is the tropike neerest vnto them. I know not whe∣ther [ 10] the one or the other haue obserued any Bisexte, although some hold the contrarie. The weekes which the Mexicans did reckon, were not properly weekes, being not of seuen daies: the Inguas likewise made no mention thereof which is no wonder, seeing the count of the weeke is not grounded vpon the course of the Sunne, as that of the yeare, nor of the Moone, as that of the moneth; but among the Hebrewes it is grounded vpon the creation of the world, as Moyses reporteth; and amongst the Greekes and Latins vpon the number of the seuen Planets, of whose names the daies of the weeke haue taken their denomination; yet was it much for those Indians, being men without bookes and learning, to haue a yeare, seasons, and feasts, so well appointed as I haue said.

[ 20] LEtters were inuented to signifie properly the words we doe pronounce, euen as words (ac∣cording to the Philosopher) are the signes and demonstrations of mans thoughts and con∣ceptions.* 6.437 And both the one and the other (I say the letters and words) were ordained to make things knowne. The voice of such as are present, and letters for the absent, and such as are to come. Signes and markes which are not properly to signifie words, but things, cann••t be called, neither in truth are they letters, although they be written, for we cannot say that the picture of the Sunne is a writing of the Sunne, but onely a picture; and the like may be said of other signes and characters, which haue no resemblance to the thing, but serue onely for memorie: for he that inuented them, did not ordaine them to signifie words, but onely to noate the thing: neither doe they call those characters, letters, or writings, as indeede they are not, but rather ciphers, [ 30] or remembrances, as those be which the Spherists or Astronomers doe vse, to signifie diuers signes or planets of Mars, Venus, Iupiter, &c.

Such characters are ciphers, and no letters: for what name soeuer Mars may haue in Italian, France, or Spanish, this character doth alwaies signifie it, the which is not found in letters:* 6.438 for although they signifie the thing, yet is it by meanes of wo••ds. So as they which know not the thing, vnderstand them not: as for example, the Greekes nor the Hebrews, cannot conceiue what this word Sol doth signifie, although they see it written▪ for that they vnderstand not the La∣tine word: so as writing and letters are onely practised by them, which signifie words there∣with. For if they signifie things mediately, they are no more letters nor writings, but ciphers and pictures: whereby we may obserue two notable things. The one, that the memorie of Hi∣stories [ 40] and Antiquities may be preserued by one of these three meanes, either by letters and wri∣tings, as hath beene vsed amongst the Latines, Greekes, Hebrewes, and manie other Nations; or by painting, as hath beene vsed almost throughout all the world, for it is said in the second Ni∣cene Counsell, Painting is a Booke for fooles which cannot reade: or by ciphers and characters, as the cipher signifies the number of a hundred, a thousand and others, without noting the word of a hundred, or a thousand. The other thing we may obserue thereby, is that which is pro∣pounded in this Chapter, which is, that no Nation of the Indies discouered in our time, hath had the vse of letters and writings, but of the other two sorts, Images, and figures. The which I obserue, not onely of the Indies of Peru, and New Spaine, but also of Iap∣pon, and China.

[ 50] It is difficul•• to vnderstand how the Chinois can write proper names in their tongue, espe∣cially of strangers, being things they haue neuer seene, and not able to inuent figures proper vnto them. I haue made triall thereof being in Mexico with the Chinois, willing them to write this proposition in their language, Ioseph Acosta is come from Peru, and such like: whereupon the Chinese was long pensiue, but in the end hee did write it, the which other Chinois did after reade, although they did vary a little in the pronuntiation of the proper name. For they vse this deuise to write a proper name: they seeke out some thing in their tongue, that hath resem∣blance to that name, and set downe the figure of this thing. And as it is difficult among so many proper names, to finde things to resemble them in the prolation, so is it very difficult and trou∣blesome to write such names. Vpon this purpose, Father Allonso Sanchez told vs, that when hee [ 60] was in China, being led into diuers Tribunall Seates, from Manderin to Manderin, they were long in putting his name in writing in their Caphas, yet in the end they did write it after their manner, and so ridiculously, that they scarce came neere to the name: and this is the fashion of Letters and Writings which the Chinois vsed. That of the Iapponois approached very neere, al∣though they affirme that the Noblemen of Iappon that came into Europe, did write all things

very easily in their Language, were they of our proper names: yea, I haue had some of their Writing shewed me, whereby it seemes they should haue some kinde of Letters, although the greatest part of their Writings, bee by the Characters and figures, as hath beene said of the Chinois.

An Indian of Peru or Mexico, that hath learned to read & write, knowes more then the wisest Mandarin that is amongst them: for that the Indian with foure and twentie Letters which hee hath learned, will write all the words in the World: and a Mandarin with his hundred thousand Letters, will be troubled to write some proper name, as of Martin, or Alonso, and with greater reason he shall bee lesse able to write the names of things hee knowes not. So as the writing in China, is no other thing but a manner of painting or ciphering.

[ 10]

* 6.439WE find among the Nations of New Spaine a great knowledge and memorie of antiqui∣titie; and therefore searching by what meanes the Indians had preserued their Histo∣ries, and so many particularities, I learned, that although they were not so subtill and curious as the Chinois, and those of Iappon, yet had they some kind of Letters and Bookes amongst them, whereby they preserued (after their manner) the deeds of their Predecessors. In the Prouince of Yucatan, where the Bishopricke is, which they call de Honduras, there were Bookes of the leaues of Trees, folded and squared, after their manner, in the which the wise Indians contained the distribution of their times,* 6.440 the knowledge of the Planets, of beasts and other naturall things, with their Antiquities, a thing full of great curiositie and diligence. It seemed to some Pendant that all this was an Inchantment and Magicke Arte, who did obstinately maintayne, that they [ 20] ought to be burnt, so as they were committed to the fire. Which since not onely the Indians found to be ill done, but also the curious Spaniards, who desired to know the secrets of the Coun∣trey. The like hath happened in other things: for our men thinking that all was but Supersti∣tion, haue lost many memorials of ancient and holy things, which might haue profited much. This proceedeth of a foolish and ignorant zeale, who not knowing, nor seeking to know what concerned the Indians, say preiudicately, that they are all but Witch-crafts, and that all the In∣dians are but Drunkards, incapable to know or learne any thing. For such as would be curiously informed of them, haue found many things worthy of consideration. One of our company of Iesuits, a man very wittie and well experienced, did assemble in the Prouince of Mexico, the [ 30] Ancients of Tescuco, of Talla, and of Mexico, conferring at large with them, who shewed vnto him their Bookes, Histories and Kalenders, things very worthy the sight, because they had their figures and Hierogliphicks, whereby they represented things in this manner: Such as had forme or figure, were represented by their proper Images, and such as had not any, were represented by Characters that signified them, and by this meanes they figured and writ what they would. And to obserue the time when any thing did happen, they had those painted Wheeles, for euery one of them contayned an Age, which was two and fiftie yeeres, as hath beene said; and of the side of those Wheeles, they did paint with figures and Characters right against the yeere, the memo∣rable things that happensd therein. As they noted the yeere when as the Spaniards entred their Countrey, they painted a man with a Hat and a red Ierkin, vpon the signe of a Reed, which did rule then, and so of other accidents. But for that their Writings and Characters were not suffi∣cient [ 40] as our Letters and Writings be, they could not so plainly expresse the words, but onely the substance of their conceptions. And forasmuch as they were accustomed to rehearse Discourses and Dialogues by heart, compounded by their Oratours and ancient Rhethoricians, and many Caphas made by their Poets (which were impossible to learne by their Hierogliphickes and Cha∣racters) the Mexicans were very curious to haue their Children learne those Dialogues and com∣positions by heart. For the which cause they had Schooles, and as it were, Colledges or Semi∣naries, where the Ancients taught Children these Orations, and many other things, which they preserued amongst them by tradition from one to another, as perfectly, as if they had beene written; especially the most famous Nations had a care to haue their children (which had any in∣clination [ 50] to be Rhetoritians, and to practise the Office of Orators) to learne these Orations by heart: So as when the Spaniards came into their Countrey, and had taught them to reade and write our Letters, many of the Indians then wrote these Orations, as some graue men doe wit∣nesse that had read them. Which I say, for that some which shall happily reade these long and e∣loquent Discourses in the Mexican History, will easily beleeue they haue beene inuented by the Spaniards, and not really taken and reported from the Indians. But hauing knowne the certaine truth, they will giue credit (as reason is) to their Histories. They did also write these Discourses after their manner, by Characters and Images: and I haue seene for my better satisfaction, the Pater noster, Auie Maria, and Symboll, or generall Confession of our Faith, written in this manner by the Indians.* 6.441

And in truth whosoeuer shall see them, will wonder thereat. For, to signifie these words, I [ 60] a Sinner doe confesse my selfe, they painted an Indian vpon his knees, at a religious mans feet, as one that confesseth himselfe: and for this, To God most mightie, they painted three faces with their Crownes, like to the Trinitie, and To the glorious Virgin Marie, they painted the face of

our Lady, and halfe the bodie of a little childe: and for Saint Peter and Saint Paul, heads with crownes, and a Key with a Sword: and whereas Images failed, they did set Characters, as Wherein I haue sinned, &c. whereby we may conceiue the quicknesse of spirit of these Indians, seeing this manner of writing of our Prayers and matters of Faith hath not beene taught them by the Spaniards, neither could they haue done it, if they had not had an excellent conception of that was taught them. And I haue seene in Peru, a confession of sinnes brought by an Indian, written in the same sort with Pictures and Characters, painting euery one of the tenne Com∣mandements, after a certayne manner, where there were certayne markes like Ciphers, which were the sinnes hee had committed against the Commandements. I nothing doubt but if [ 10] any of the most sufficient Spaniards were imployed to make memorials of the like things by by their Images and markes, they would not attayne vnto it in a whole yeere, no not in tenne.

BEfore the Spaniards came to the Indies, they of Peru had no kind of writing,* 6.442 either Let∣ters, Characters, Ciphers, or Figures, like to those of China and Mexico: yet preserued they the memory of their Antiquities, and mayntaine an order in all their affaires, of Peace, Warre, and Policie, for that they were carefull obseruers of Traditions from one to another, and the young ones learned, and carefully kept, as a holy thing, what their Superiors had told them, and taught it with the like care to their Posteritie. Besides this diligence, they supplied the [ 20] want of Letters and Writings, partly by painting, as those of Mexico, (although they of Pe∣ru were very grosse and blockish) and partly, and most commonly by Quippos.* 6.443 These Quippos are Memorials or Registers, made of Bowes, in the which there are diuers knots and colours, which doe signifie diuers things, and it is strange to see what they haue expressed and represented by this meanes: for their Quippos serue them insteed of Bookes of Histories, of Lawes, Ceremonies, and accounts of their affaires. There were Officers appointed to keepe these Quippos, the which at this day they call Quipocamayos, the which were bound to giue an account of euery thing, as Notaries and Registers doe heere. Therefore they fully beleeued them in all things, for according to the varietie of businesse, as Warres, Policies, Tributes, Ceremonies and Lands, there were sundry Quippos or branches, in euery one of the which there were so many knots little and great, [ 30] and strings tyed vnto them, some Red, some Greene, some Blue, some White; and finally, such diuersitie, that euen as wee deriue an infinite number of words from the foure and twentie Let∣ters, applying them in diuers sorts, so doe they draw innumerable words from their knots, and diuersitie of colours. Which thing they doe in such a manner, that if at this day in Peru, any Commissary come at the end of two or three yeeres, to take information vpon the life of any Officer, the Indians come with their small reckonings verified, saying, that in such a Village they giuen him so many Egges which he hath not payed for, in such a house a Henne, in another, two burthens of grasse for his Horse, and that he hath payed but so much mony, and remaineth debtor so much. The proofe being presently made with these numbers of knots and handfuls of coards, it remaynes for a certaine testimonie and register. I did see a handfull of these strings, [ 40] wherein an Indian woman carried written a generall confession of all her life, and thereby con∣fessed her selfe, as well 〈◊〉〈◊〉 I could haue done it in written Paper. I asked her what those strings meant that differed from the rest: she answered me,* 6.444 they were certaine circumstances which the sinne required to be fully confessed. Beside these Quippos of threed, they haue another, as it were a kind of writing with small stones, by meanes whereof, they learne punctually the words they desire to know by heart. It is a pleasant thing to see the old and the impotent (with a Wheele made of small stones) learne the Pa••er noster, with another the Aue Maria, with ano∣ther the Creed; and to remember what stone signifies, Which was conceiued by the Holy Ghost, and which, Suffered vnder Pontius Pilate.

It is a pleasant thing to see them correct themselues when they doe erre; for all their corre∣ction consisteth onely in beholding of their small stones. One of these Wheeles were sufficient to [ 50] make me forget all that I doe know by heart. There are a great number of these Wheeles in the Church-yards for this purpose. But it seemes a kind of Witch-craft, to see another kinde of Quippos, which they make of graines of Mays, for to cast vp a hard account, wherein a good Arithmetician would bee troubled with his Penne to make a diuision: to see how much euery one must contribute: they doe draw so many graines from one side,* 6.445 and adde so many to ano∣ther, with a thousand other inuentions. These Indians will take their graines, and place fiue of one side, three of another, and eight of another, and will change one graine of one side, and three of another: So as they finish a certaine account, without erring in any point: and they sooner submit themselues to reason by these Quippos, what euery one ought to pay, [ 60] then wee can doe with the Penne. Heereby wee may judge if they haue any vnderstanding, or bee brutish: for my part, I thinke they passe vs in those things, whereunto they doe apply themselues.

* 6.446IT shall be good to adde hereunto what we haue obserued, touching the Indians Writings: for their manner was not to write with a continued line, but from the top to the bottome, or in circle-wise. The Latines and Greekes doe write from the left hand vnto the right, which is the vulgar and common manner wee doe vse. The Hebrewes contrariwise beganne at the right to the left, and therefore their Bookes began where ours did end. The Chinois write neither like the Greekes nor like the Hebrewes, but from the top to the bottome, for as they bee no Letters but whole words,* 6.447 and that euery figure and Character signifieth a thing, they haue no neede to assemble the parts one with another, and therefore they may well write from the toppe to the bottome. Those of Mexico, for the same cause did not write in line, from one side to another, but contrary to the Chinois, beginning below, they mounted vpward. They vsed this manner of writing, in the account of their dayes, and other things which they obserued: Yet when they [ 10] did write in their Wheeles or Signes, they began from the middest where the Sunne was figu∣red, and so mounted by their yeeres vnto the round and circumference of the Wheele.

By words, Pictures, and these Memorialls, the Kings were often aduertised of that which passed. For this cause there were men of great agilitie, which serued as Curriers, to goe and come, whom they did nourish in this exercise of Running from their youth, labouring to haue them well breathed, that they might runne to the top of a high Hill without wearinesse. And therefore in Mexico they gaue the Prize to three or foure that first mounted vp the stayres of the Temple, as hath beene said in the former Booke. And in Cusco, when they made their So∣lemne Feast of Capacrayme, the Nouices did runne who could fastest vp the Rocke of Ynacauri. And the exercise of running is generall; much vsed among the Indians. When as there chanced [ 20] any matter of importance, they sent vnto the Lords of Mexico, the thing painted, whereof they would aduertise them, as they did when the first Spanish ships appeared to their sight, and when they tooke Topanchan. In Peru they were very curious of Footmen, and the Ingua had them in all parts of the Realme, as ordinary Posts called Chasquis, whereof shall bee spoken in his place.

* 6.448Many Nations of the Indies haue not indured any Kings, or absolute and souereigne Lords, but liue in Comminalties, creating and appointing Captaynes and Princes, for certayne occa∣sions onely, to whom they obey during the time of their charge; then after they returne to their former estates. The greatest part of this New World (where there are no setled King∣domes, nor established Common-weales, neither Princes nor succeeding Kings) they gouerne [ 30] themselues in this manner, although there bee some Lords and principall men raised aboue the common sort. In this sort the whole Countrey of Chille is gouerned, where the A••racanes, those of Teucapell and others, haue so many yeeres resisted the Spaniards. And in like sort all the new Kingdome of Granado, that of Guatimalla, the Ilands, all Florida, Bresill, Luson, and other Countreyes of great circuit: but that in some places they are yet more barbarous, scarce∣ly acknowledging any head, but all command and gouerne in common, hauing no other thing, but will, violence, industry and disorder, so as hee that most may most commands.

They haue onely found two Kingdomes or setled Empires, that of the Mexicans in New Spaine, and of the Inguas in Peru. It is not easie to be said, which of the two was the mightiest Kingdome,* 6.449 for that Moteçuma, exceeded them of Peru, in Buildings, and in the greatnesse of his [ 40] Court: but the Inguas, did likewise exceed the Mexicans, in treasure, riches, and greatnesse of Prouinces. In regard of Antiquitie, the Monarchie of the Inguas, hath the aduantage, although it be not much, and in my opinion, they haue beene equall in feats of Armes and Victories. It is most certaine, that these two Kingdomes haue much exceeded all the Indian Prouinces, dis∣couered in this New World, as well in good order and gouernment, as in power and wealth, and much more in Superstition and Seruice of their Idols, hauing many things like one to another But in one thing they differed much, for among the Mexicans, the succession of the Kingdome, was by election, as the Empire of the Romanes, and that of Peru, was hereditary, and they suc∣ceeded in bloud, as the Kingdomes of France and Spaine.

[ 50]

THe Ingua which ruled in Peru, being dead, his lawfull Sonne succeeded him, and so they held him that was borne of his chiefe Wife,* 6.450 whom they called Coya. The which they haue alwayes obserued since the time of an Ingua, called Yupangui, who married his sister: for these Kings held it an honour to marrie their Sisters. And although they had other Wiues and Concu∣bines, yet the succession of the Kingdome appertayned to the Sonne of Coya. It is true, that when the King had a legitimate Brother, he succeeded before the Sonne, and after him his Nephew, and Sonne to the first. The Curacas, and Noblemen, held the same order of succession in their goods and Offices. And after their manner they made excessiue Ceremonies, and obsequies for the dead. Being dead, they presently held him for a God, making Sacrifices vnto him, Images and such like. By this meanes, there was infinite Treasure in Peru: for euery one of the Inguas, [ 60] had laboured to haue his Oratorie and Treasure surpasse that of his Predecessors. The marke or ensigne,* 6.451 whereby they tooke possession of the Realme, was a red roll of Wooll, more then fine silke, the which hung in the middest of his forehead: and none but the Ingua alone might

weare it, for that it was as a Crowne and Royall Diademe: yet they might lawfully weare a Roll hanging on the one side, neere vnto the eare, as some Noblemen did, but onely the Ingua might carrie it in the middest of his forehead. At such time as they tooke this Roll or W••eathe, they made solemne Feasts, and many Sacrifices, with a great quantitie of vessell of Gold, and Siluer, a great number of small formes or Images of sheepe, made of Gold and Siluer, great a∣bundance of the stuffes of Cumby, well wrought, both fine and courser, many shels of the Sea of all sorts, many feathers, and a thousand sheepe, which must bee of diuers colours. Then the chiefe Priest tooke a young Childe in his hands, of the age of sixe or eight yeeres, pronouncing these words with the other Ministers speaking to the Image of Viracocha, Lord we offer this vn∣to [ 10] thee, that thou mayest mayntayne vs in quiet, and helpe vs in our warres, mayntaine our Lord the In∣gua in his greatnesse and estate, that hee may alwayes increase, giuing him much knowledge to go∣uerne vs.

There were present at this Ceremonie and Oath, men of all parts of the Realme, and of all Guacas and Sanctuaries. And without doubt, the affection and reuerence which this people bare to their Kings Inguas, was very great, for it is neuer found that any one of his subjects commit∣ted Treason against him, for that they proceeded in their gouernments, not only with an abso∣lute power, but also with good order and Iustice, suffering no man to bee oppressed: The Ingua placed Gouernours in diuers Prouinces, amongst the which, some were Superiours,* 6.452 and did ac∣knowledge none but himselfe, others were of lesse command, and others more particular, with [ 20] so goodly an order, and such grauitie, as no man durst be drunke, nor take an eare of Mays from his Neighbour. These Inguas held it for a Maxime, that it was necessary to keepe the Indians alwayes in action: and therefore we see it to this day, long caws••es and workes of great labour,* 6.453 the which they say were made to exercise the Indians, lest they should remayne idle. When hee conquered any new Prouince, hee was accustomed presently to send the greatest part, and the chie••e of that Countrey into other Prouinces, or else to his Court,* 6.454 and they call them at this day in Peru, Mitimas, and in their places he sent others of the Nation of Cusco, especially the O∣••eiones, which were as Knights of an ancient house. They punished faults rigorously. And there∣fore such as haue any vnderstanding hereof, hold opinion, that there can be no better gouernment for the Indians, nor more assured, then that of the Inguas.

[ 30]

TO relate more particularly what I haue spoken before, you must vnderstand,* 6.455 that the di∣stribution which the Inguas made of their vassals, was so exact and distinct, as hee might gouerne them all with great facilitie, although his Realme were a thousand leagues long: for hauing conquered a Prouince, he presently reduced the Indians into Townes and Comminaltie••, the which he diuided into bands, he appointed one to haue the charge ouer euery ten Indians, o∣uer euery hundred another, ouer euery thousand another, and ouer ten thousand another, whom they called Humo, the which was one of the greatest charges. Yet aboue all in euery Prouince, there was a Gouernour of the house of the Inguas, whom all the rest obeyed, giuing vnto him e∣uery yeere particular account of what had passed, that is, of such as were borne, of those that [ 40] were dead and of their troupes and graine. The Gouernours went euery yeere out of Cusco, where they remayned, and returned to the great Feast of Rayme, at the which,* 6.456 they brought the tribute of the whole Realme to the Court; neither might they enter but with this condition. All the Kingdome was diuided into foure parts, which they called Tahuantinsuyo, that is, Chinchasuyo,* 6.457 Collasuyo, And••suyo, and Condesuyo, according to the foure wayes which went from Cusco, where the Court was resident, and where the generall assemblies of the Realme were made. These waies and Prouinces being answerable vnto them, were towards the foure quarters of the world, Collasuyo to the South, Chinchasuyo to the North, Condesuyo to the West, and Andesuyo to the East. In euery Towne and Village, there were two sorts of people, which were of Hanansaya, and Vrinsaya, which is as much to say, as those aboue, and those below. When they commanded any [ 50] worke to be done, or to furnish any thing to the Ingua, the Officers knew presently how much euery Prouince, Towne, and Family, ought to furnish: so as the diuision was not made by equall portions, but by Cottization, according to the qualities and wealth of the Countrey. So as for example, if they were to gather a hundred thousand Fanegues of Mays, they knew presently how much euery Prouince was to contribute, were it a tenth, a seuenth, or a fift part. The like was of Townes and Villages, Aillos••, or Linages. The Quipocamayos, which were the Officers and Intendants, kept the account of all with their strings and knottes, without fayling, setting downe what euery one had payed, euen to a Henne, or a burthen of wood, and in a moment they did see by diuers Registers what euery one ought to pay.

[ 60]

THe Edifices and Buildings which the Inguas made in Temples, Fortresses, wayes,* 6.458 Countrey houses, and such like, were many in number, and of an excessiue labour, as doth appeare at this day by their ruines and remaynders, both in Cusco, Tyaguanaco, Tambo, and other places, where there are stones of an vnmeasurable greatnesse: as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 cannot conceiue how they were

cut, brought and set in their places. There came great numbers of people from all Prouinces, to worke in these Buildings and Fortresses, which the Ingua caused to bee made in Cusco, or other parts of the Realme. As these Workes were strange, and to amaze the beholders, wherein they vsed no Morter nor Ciment, neither any Iron, or Steele, to cut, and set the stones in worke. They had no Engines or other Instruments to carrie them,* 6.459 and yet were they so artificially wrought, that in many places they could not see the ioynts: and many of these stones are so bigge, that it were an incredible thing, if one should not see them. At T••••guanaco, I did measure a stone of thirtie eight foot long, of eighteene broad, and sixe thicke. And in the wall of the Fortresse of Cusco, which is of Moallon, there are stones of a greater bignesse. And that which is most strange, these stones being not cut nor squared to ioyne, but contrariwise, very vnequall [ 10] one with another in forme and greatnesse, yet did they ioyne them together without Ciment, after an incredible manner. All this was done by the force of men, who endured their labour with an inuincible patience. For to ioyne one stone with another, they were forced to handle and trie many of them often, being vneuen. The Ingua appointed euery yeere what numbers of people should labour in these stones and buildings, and the Indians made a diuision amongst them, as of other things, so as no man was oppressed. Although these Buildings were great, yet were they commonly ill appointed and vnfit, almost like to the Mosquites or Buildings of the Barbarians.

They could make no Arches in their Edifices, nor Morter or Ciment to build them withall: when they saw Arches of wood built vpon the Riuer of Xaura,* 6.460 the Bridge being finished, and [ 20] the wood broken downe, they all began to runne away, supposing that the Bridge which was of stone should presently fall; but when they found it to stand firme, and that the Spaniards went on it, the Cacique said to his companions; It is reason we should serue these men, who in truth seeme to be the children of the Sunne.* 6.461 The Bridges they made were of Reedes pleited, which they tyed the bankes with great stakes, for that they could not make any Bridges of stone or wood. The Bridge which is at this day vpon the current of the great Lake Chiquitto in Collao is admirable; for the course of that water is so deepe, as they cannot settle any foundation, and so broad, that it is impossible to make an Arch to passe it: so as it was altogether impossible to make a Bridge either of wood or stone. But the wit and industry of the Indians inuented a meanes to make a firme and assured Bridge being only of straw,* 6.462 which seemeth fabulous, yet is it very true: For as [ 30] we haue said before, they did binde together certaine bundles of Reeds, and Weeds, which doe grow in the Lake that they call Torora, and being a light matter that sinkes not in the water, they cast it vpon a great quantitie of Reeds, then hauing tyed those bundles of Weedes to ei∣ther side of the Riuer, both men and beasts goe ouer it with ease: passing ouer this Bridge I haue wondred, that of so common and easie a thing, they had made a Bridge, better, and more assured then the Bridge of Boates from Seuille to Triane. I haue measured the length of this Bridge, and as I remember, it was aboue three hundred foote; and they say that the depth of this Current is very great: and it seemes aboue, that the water hath no motion, yet they say, that at the bottome it hath a violent and very furious course. And this shall suffice for Buildings. [ 40]

THe Inguas riches was incomparable, for although no King did inherit the riches and trea∣sure of his Predecessor,* 6.463 yet had he at command, all the riches of his Realmes, aswell Sil∣uer and Gold, as the stuffe of Cumbi, and cattell, wherein they abounded, and their greatest ri∣ches of all, was their innumerable number of vassals, which were all imployed as it pleased the King. They brought out of euery Prouince what he had chosen for tribute. The Chicas sent him sweet and rich woods; the Lucanas sent Brancars to carry his Litter; The Chumbilbicas, Dancers; and so the other Prouinces sent him what they had of abundance, besides their generall Tribute, whereunto euery one contributed. The Indians that were noted to that end, laboured in the Mynes of Gold and Siluer, which did abound in Peru, whom the Ingua entertained with all [ 50] they needed for their expences: and whatsoeuer they drew of Gold and Siluer, was for him. By this meanes there were so great treasures in this Kingdome, as it is the opinion of many, that what fell in the hands of the Spaniards, (although it were very much, as wee know) was not the tenth part of that which they hid and buried in the ground, the which they could neuer discouer, notwithstanding all the search couetousnesse had taught them. But the greatest wealth of these barbarous people, was, that their vassals were all slaues, whose labour they vsed at their pleasure: and that which is admirable, they employed them in such sort, as it was no seruitude vnto them,* 6.464 but rather a pleasing life. But to vnderstand the order of Tributes which the Indians payed vnto their Lord, you must know, that when the Ingua conquered any Cities, he diuided all the Land into three parts, the first was, for Religion and Ceremonies, so as the Pachayachaqui, [ 60] which is the Creator, and the Sunne, the Chuquilla, which is the Thunder, the Pachamana, and the dead, and other Guacas and Sanctuaries, had euery one their proper Lands, the fruits whereof were spoyled and consumed in Sacrifices,* 6.465 and in the nourishing of Mini∣sters and Priests; for there were Indians appointed for euery Guaca, and Sanctuarie, and

the greatest part of this reuenue was spent in Cusco, where was the vniuersall and generall sanctu∣arie, and the rest in that Citie, where it was gathered: for that after the imitation of Cusco, there were in euery Citie, Guacas, and Oratories of the same order,* 6.466 and with the same functi∣ons, which were serued after the same manner and ceremonies to that of Cusco, which is an ad∣mirable thing, and they haue found it by proofe in aboue a hundred Townes, some of them distant aboue two hundred leagues from Cusco.

That which they sowed or reapt vpon their Land, was put into houses, as ••ranaries or store-houses, built for that effect, and this was a great part of the Tribute which the Indians paied. I cannot say how much this part amounted vnto, for that it was greater in some parts then in o∣ther, [ 10] and in some places it was in a manner all: and this part was the first they put to profit. The second part of these Lands and inheritances was for the Ingua, wherewith he and his hous∣hold were entertained, with his kinsfolks, Noblemen, Garrisons and Souldiers.* 6.467 And there∣fore it was the greatest portion of these tributes, as it appeareth by the quantity of Gold, Siluer, and other Tributes, which were in houses appointed for that purpose, be∣ing longer and larger then those where they keepe the reuenues of the Guacas. They brought this Tribute verie carefully to Cusco, or vnto such places where it was needefull for the Souldi∣ers, and when there was store, they kept it ten or twelue yeares, vntill a time of necessitie. The Indians tilled and put to profit the Inguas Lands, next to those of the Guacas; during which time they liued and were nourished at the charges of the Ingua, of the Sunne, or of the Guacas, [ 20] according to the Land they laboured. But the old men, women, and sicke folkes were reserued and exempt from this Tribute, and although whatsoeuer they gathered vpon those Lands were for the Ingua, the Sunne, or the Guacas, yet the propertie appertained vnto the Indians and their successours. The third part of these Lands were giuen by the Ingua for the Comminaltie, and they haue not yet discouered, whither this portion were greater, or lesse,* 6.468 then that of the Ingua or Guacas. It is most certaine they had a care and regard, it might be sufficient for the nourish∣ment of the people. No particular man possessed any thing proper to himselfe of this third por∣tion, neither did the Indians euer possesse any, if it were not by speciall grace from the Ingua: and yet might it not be engaged nor diuided amongst his heires.* 6.469 They euerie yeare diuided these Lands of the comminaltie, in giuing to euery one, that which was needefull for the nourish∣ment [ 30] of their persons and families. And as the familie increased or diminished, so did they en∣crease or decrease his portion, for there were measures appointed for euerie person. The Indi∣ans paied no tribute of that which was apportioned vnto them:* 6.470 For all their tribute was to till and keepe in good order the Lands of the Ingua, and the Guacas, and to lay the fruits thereof in their store-houses. When the yeare was barren, they gaue of these fruits thus reserued to the needie, for that there is alwaies superabundance. The Ingua did likewise make destribution of the cattell as of the Lands, which was to number and diuide them;* 6.471 then to appoint the pa∣stures and limits, for the cattell belonging to the Guacas, and to the Ingua, and to euerie Town: and therefore one portion of their reuenues was for religion, another for the Ingua, and the third for the Indians themselues. The like order was obserued among the hunters, being forbidden to [ 40] take or kill any females. The troupes of the Inguas and Guacas,* 6.472 were in great numbers and ve∣rie fruitfull, for this cause they called them Kapaëllama, but those of the common and publike, were few in number and of small value, and therefore they called them Bacchallama. The Ingua tooke great care for the preseruation of Cattell, for that it hath beene, and is yet, all the wealth of the Countrie, and as it is said, they did neither sacrifice any females, nor kill them,* 6.473 neither did they take them when they hunted. If the mangie or the scuruie which they call Carache take a∣nie beast, they were presently commanded to burie it quicke, lest it should infect others. They did sheare their cattell in their season, and distributed to euerie one to spinne and weaue Stuffes for the seruice of his Family. They had searchers to examine if they did employ themselues in these workes, and to punish the negligent. They made Stuffes of the wooll of the Inguas cattell,* 6.474 [ 50] for him and for his family, one sort very fine, which they called Cumbi, and another grosser, which they likewise called Abasca. There was no certaine number of these Stuffes and gar∣ment, appointed, but what was deliuered to euery one. The wooll that remained was put in∣to the storehouses, whereof the Spaniards found them full, and with all other things necessary for the life of man. There are few men of iudgement but doe admire at so excellent & well setled a gouernment, seeing the Indians (being neither religious, nor Christians) maintained after their manner, this perfection, nor to hold any thing proper, and to prouide for all their necessities, en∣tertaining with such abūdance matters of Religion, & that which concerned their King & Lord.

THe Indians of Peru had one perfection, which was, to teach their children all arts and oc∣cupations [ 60] necessary for the life of man; for that there were no particular T••ades-men,* 6.475 as amongst vs, Taylers, Shoomakers, Weauers, and the rest, but euery one learned what was neede∣full for their persons and houses, and prouided for themselues. All could weaue and make their garments, and therefore the Ingua furnishing them with wooll, gaue them cloathes. Euery man could till the ground, and put it to profit, without hyring of any labourers. All built their own

houses, and the women, which vnderstood most were not brought vp in delights, but serued their Husbands carefully. Other Arts and Trades which were not ordinary and common for the life of man, had their proper Companies and workemen, as Goldsmiths, Painters, Potters, Water∣men, and players of Instruments. There were also Weauers and workemen for exq••isite workes, which the Noblemen vsed: but the common people, as hath beene said, had in their houses all things necessary, hauing no neede to buy. This continues to this day, so as they haue no neede one of another for things necessary: touching his person and family, as shooes and garments, and for their house, to sowe and reape, and to make Iron workes, and necessarie instruments. It is worthy obseruation,* 6.476 although the Indians be simple in their manner and habits, yet doe we see great diuersitie amongst the Prouinces, especially in the attire of their head, for in some places [ 10] they carried a long peece of cloath, which went often about, in some places a large peece of cloath, which went but once about, in some parts as it were little morters or hats, in some o∣thers as it were high and round Bonets, and some like the bottome of sacks, with a thousand other differences.* 6.477 They had a straight and inuiolable law, that no man might change the fashi∣on of the garments of his Prouince, although he went to liue in another. This the Ingua held to be of great importance for the order and good gouernment of his Realme, and they doe obserue it to this day, though not with so great a care as they were accustomed.

THere were many Posts and couriers which the Ingua maintained throughout his Realme, whom they called Chasquis,* 6.478 and they carried commandements to the Gouernours, and re∣turned [ 20] their aduises and aduertisements to the Court. These Chasquis were placed at euery course, which was a league and a halfe one from another in two small houses, where were foure Indians of euery Country, and they were changed monthly. Hauing receiued the packet or mes∣sage, they ranne with all their force vntill they had deliuered it to the other Chasquis, such as were ao runne, being ready and watchfull. They ran fiftie leagues in a day and night, although the greatest part of that Countrie be very rough. They serued also to carry such things as the Ingua desired to haue with speede. Therefore they had alwaies Sea-fish in Cusco, of two daies old or little more, although it were aboue a hundred leagues off. Since the Spaniards entred, they haue vsed of these Chasquis, in time of seditions, whereof there was great neede. Don Martin the Viceroy appointed ordinary Posts at euery foure leagues, to carry and recarry dispatches, which [ 30] were very necessary in this Realme, though they run not so swiftly as the ancients did, neither are there so many, yet they are well paied, and serue as the ordinaries of Spaine, to whom they giue Letters which they carry foure or fiue leagues.

EVen as such as had done any good seruice in warre, or in the gouernment of the Common∣weale were honoured and recompensed with publike charges,* 6.479 with Lands giuen them in proper, with armes and titles of honour, and in marrying wiues of the Inguas linage: Euen so they gaue seuere punishments to such as were disobedient and offenders. They punished mur∣ther, theft, and adultery, with death, and such as committed incest with ascendants or descen∣dants in direct line, were likewise punished with death. But they held it no adultery to haue [ 40] many wiues or concubines, neither were the women subiect to the punishment of death, being found with any other, but onely she that was the true and lawfull wife, with whom they con∣tracted marriage;* 6.480 for they had but one whom they did wedde and receiue with a particular solemnitie and ceremonie, which was in this manner: The Bridegroome went to the Brides house,* 6.481 and led her from thence with him, hauing first put an Ottoya vpon her foote. They call the shooe which they vse in those parts Ottoya, being open like the Franciscan Friars. If the Bride were a maide, her Ottoya was of Wooll, but if she were not, it was of Reedes. All his other wiues and concubines did honour and serue this as the lawfull wife, who alone after the decease of her husband carried a mourning weede of blacke, for the space of a yeare; neither did she mar∣ry vntill that time were past; and commonly she was yonger then her husband. The Ingua [ 50] himselfe with his owne hand gaue this woman to his Gouernours and Captaines: and the Go∣uernours or Caciques, assembled all the yong men and maides, in one place of the Citie, where they gaue to euerie one his wife with the aforesaid ceremonie, in putting on the Ottoya, and in this manner they contracted their marriages. If this woman were found with any other then her husband, she was punished with death, and the adulterer likewise: and although the hus∣band pardoned them, yet were they punished, although dispensed withall from death. They inflicted the like punishment on him that did commit incest with his Mother, Grandmother, Daughter, or Grandchilde: for it was not prohibited for them to marrie together, or to haue of their other kinsfolke for concubines; onely the first degree was defended, neither did they al∣low the brother to haue the company of his sister,* 6.482 wherein they of Peru were very much de∣ceiued, beleeuing that their Inguas and Noblemen might lawfully contract marriage with their [ 60] sisters, yea by father and mother: for in truth it hath beene alwaies held vnlawfull among the Indians, and defended to contract in the first degree; which continued vntill the time of Top•• Ingua Yupangui father to Guaynacapa, and grandfather to Atahualpa, at such time as the Spaniards

entred Peru; for that Topa Ingua Yupangui, was the first that brake this custome, marrying with Mamaoello, his sister by the fathers side, decreeing that the Inguas might marrie with their sisters by the fathurs side, and no other.

This he did, and by that marriage he had Guaynacapa, and a daughter called Coya Cussillimay: finding himselfe at the point of death, he commanded his children by father and mother to marrie together, and gaue permission to the Noblemen of his Countrie, to marrie with their si∣sters by the fathers side. And for that this marriage was vnlawfull, and against the law of na∣ture, God would bring to an end this Kingdome of the Inguas, during the raigne of Guascar Ingua, and Atahualpa Ingua, which was the fruite that sprang from this marriage. Who so will more exactly vnderstand the manner of marriages among the Indians in Peru, let [ 10] him reade the Treatise Polo hath written at the request of Don Ieronimo Loaisa Archbishop of Kings: which Polo made a very curious search, as he hath done of diuers other things at the Indies.

BY the commandement of Don Phillip the Catholike King,* 6.483 they haue made the most diligent and exact search that could be, of the beginning, customes, and priuiledges of the Inguas, the which was not so perfectly done as was desired: for that the Indians had no written Re∣cords: yet the haue recouered that which I shall write, by meanes of their Quippos and Regi∣sters. First there was not in Peru in old time, any King or Lord to whom all obeyed, but they were Comminalties, as at this day there is in the Realme of Chille, and in a manner, in all the Prouinces which the Spaniards haue conquered in those Westerne Indies, except the Realme [ 20] of Mexico. You must therefore vnderstand, that they haue found three manner of Gouerne∣ments at the Indies. The first and best, was a Monarchie, as that of the Inguas, and of Mote∣çum••, although for the most part they were tyrannous. The second was of Comminalties, where they were gouerned by the aduise and authority of many, which are as it were Counsel∣lors. Thele in time of warre, made choise of a Captaine, to whom a whole Nation or Prouince did obey, and in time of peace, euery Towne or Comminalty did rule and gouerne themselues, hauing some chiefe men whom the vulgar did respect, and sometime (though not often) some of them assemble together about matters of importance, to consult what they should thinke ne∣cessary. The third kinde of Gouernment, is altogether barbarous, composed of Indians with∣out [ 30] Law, without King, and without any certaine place of abode, but goe in troopes like sauage beasts. As farre as I can conceiue, the first Inhabitants of the Indies, were of this kinde, as at this day a great part of the Bresillians, Chiraguanas, Chunchos, Yscycingas, Pilcocones, and the greatest part of the Floridians, and all the Chichimaquas in new Spaines Of this kinde the other sort of gouernment by Comminalties was framed, by the industry and wisdome of some a∣mongst them, in which there is some more order, holding a more staied place, as at this day those of Auracano, and of Teucapell in Chille, and in the new Kingdome of Grenado, the Moscas, and the Ottomittes in new Spaine: and in all these there is lesse fiercenesse and inciuilitie, & much more quiet then in the rest. Of this kinde, by the valor & knowledg of some excellent men, grew the other gouernment more mighty and potent, which did institute a Kingdome and Monarchy. [ 40] It appeares by their Registers,* 6.484 that their Gouernment hath continued aboue three hundred yeares, but not fully foure, although their Seigniorie for a long time, was not aboue fiue or six leagues compasse about the Citie of Cusco: their originall and beginning was in the valley of Cusco: where by little and little they conquered the Lands which we call Peru, passing beyond Quitto, vnto the riuer of Pasto towards the North, stretching euen vnto Chille, towards the South, which is almost a thousand leagues in length. It extended in breadth vnto the South Sea to∣wards the West, and vnto the great champains which are on the other side of the Andes, where at this day is to be seene the Castell which is called the Pucara of the Ingua, the which is a for∣tresse built for the defence of the frontire towards the East. The Inguas aduanced no farther on that side, for the abundance of water, Marshes, Lakes, and Riuers, which runne in those parts. [ 50] These Inguas passed all other Nations of America, in pollicie and gouernment,* 6.485 and much more in valour and armes, although the Canaries which were their mortall enemies, and fauoured the Spaniards, would neuer confesse it, nor yeelde them this aduantage: so as euen at this day, if they fall into any discourse or comparisons, and that they be a little chased and incensed, they kill one another by thousands vpon this quarrell, which are the most valiant, as it hath happe∣ned in Cusco. The practise and meanes which the Iuguas had to make themselues Lords of all this Countrie, was in faining that since the generall deluge (whereof all the Indians haue knowledge) the world had beene preserued, restored, and peopled by these Inguas, and that seuen of them came forth of the Caue of Pacaricambo, by reason whereof, all other men ought them tribute and vassalage, as their progenitors. Besides they said and affirmed, [ 60] that they alone held the true religion, and knew how God should be serued and honoured: and for this cause they should instruct all men. It is a strange thing, the ground they giue to their customes and ceremonies. There were in Cusco aboue foure hundred Oratories, as in a holy land, and all places were filled with their misteries.* 6.486 As they continued in the conquests of Pro∣uinces, so they brought in the like ceremonies and customes. In all this Realme the chiefe Idols

they did worship, were Viracocha, Pachayachachic, which signifies the Creator of the World, and after him, the Sunne. And therefore they said, that the Sunne receiued his vertue and being from the Creator, as the other Idols doe, and that they were intercessors to him.

* 6.487THe first man which the Indians report to be the beginning and first of the Inguas, was Man∣gocapa, whom they imagine, after the deluge, to haue issued forth of the Caue of Tambo, which is from Cusco about fiue or sixe leagues. They say that hee gaue beginning to two princi∣pall Races or Families of the Inguas, the one was called Hanancusco, and the other Vrincusco: of the first came the Lords which subdued and gouerned this Prouince, and the first whom they make the Head and Stemme of this Familie, was called Ingaroca, who founded a Familie or A••llo, as they call them, named Viçaquiquirao. This although he were no great Lord, was serued [ 10] notwithsta••ding in vessell of gold and siluer. And dying, he appointed that all his treasure should be imployed for the seruice of his Body, and for the feeding of his Familie. His Successor did the like: and this gr••w to a generall custome, as I haue said, that no Ingua might inherit the goods and house o•• his Predecessor, but did build a new Palace. In the time of this Inguaroca, the In∣dians had Images of gold; and to him succeeded Yaguarguaque, a very old man: they say, hee was called by this name, which signifies teares of bloud, for that being once vanq••ished and ta∣ken by his Enemies, for griefe and sorrow hee wept bloud. Hee was buried in a Village called Paullo, which is vpon the way to Omasugo: he founded a Familie called Aocuillipanaca. To him succeeded his sonne Viracocha Ingua, who was very rich, and made much vessell of gold and sil∣uer: he founded the Linage or Familie of Cocopanaca. Gonçales Piçarre sought out his body, for [ 20] the report of the great treasure buried with him, who after hee had cruelly tormented many In∣dians, in the end he found it in Xaquixaquana, whereas they said Piçarre was afterwards van∣quished, taken, and executed by the President Guasca. Gonçales Piçarre caused the body of Viracocha Ingua to be burnt; the Indians did afterwards take the ashes, the which they preser∣ued in a small vessell, making great sacrifices thereunto, vntill Pollo did reforme it, and other Ido∣latries which they committed vpon the bodies of their other Inguas, the which hee suppressed with an admirable diligence and dexteritie, drawing these bodies out of their hands, being whole, and much imbalmed, whereby hee extinguished a great number of Idolatries which they com∣mitted. The Indians tooke it ill, that the Ingua did intitle himselfe Viracocha, which is the name of their God: and he to excuse himselfe, gaue them to vnderstand, that the same Viraco∣cha [ 30] appeared to him in his dreame, commanding him to take this name. To him succeeded Pa∣chacuti Ingua Yupangui, who raigned seuentie yeeres, and conquered many Countries. The be∣ginning of his conquests, was by meanes of his eldest brother, who hauing held the gouernment in his fathers time, and made warre by his consent, was ouer-throwne in a battaile against the Changuas, a Nation which inhabites the Valley of Andaguayllas, thirtie or fortie leagues from Cusco, vpon the way to Lima. This elder brother thus defeated, retyred himselfe with few men. The which Ingua Yupangui, his younger brother seeing, deuised and gaue forth, that being one day alone and melancholy, Viracocha the Creator spake to him, complayning, that though hee were vniuersall Lord and Creator of all things, and that he had made the Heauen, the Sunne, the World, and Men, and that all was vnder his command, yet did they not yeeld him the obedience they ought, but [ 40] contrariwise did equally honour and worship the Sunne, Thunder, Earth, and other things, which had no vertue but what he imparted vnto them: giuing him to vnderstand, that in heauen where hee was, they called him Viracocha Pachayachachic, which signifieth vniuersall Creator; and to the end the Indians might beleeue it to be true, he doubted not although hee were alone, to raise men vnder this title, which should giue him victorie against the Changuas, although they were then victo∣rious, and in great numbers; and make himselfe Lord of those Realmes, for that hee would send him men to his aide inuisibly, whereby he preuayled in such sort, that vnder this colour and con∣ceit, he began to assemble a great number of people, whereof he made a mightie Armie, with the which he obtayned the victorie, making himselfe Lord of the whole Realme, taking the go∣uernment from his father and brother. Then afterwards he conquered and ouer-threw the Chan∣guas, [ 50] and from that time commanded that Viracocha should be held for vniuersall Lord, and that the Images of the Sunne and Thunder, should doe him reuerence and honor: And from that time they began to set the Image of Viracocha aboue that of the Sunne and Thunder, and the rest of the Guacas. And although this Ingua Yupangui had giuen Farmes, Lands, and Cattell to the Sunne, Thunder, and other Guacas, yet did he not dedicate any thing to Viracocha, saying, that he had no neede, being vniuersall Lord and Creator of all things. Hee informed his Souldiers af∣ter this absolute victorie of the Changuas, that it was not they alone that had conquered them, but certaine bearded men, whom Viracocha had sent him, and that no man might see them but himselfe, which were since conuerted into stones; it was therefore necessarie to seeke them out, whom he would know well. By this meanes he gathered together a multitude of stones in the [ 60] Mountaines, whereof he made choice, placing them for Guacas, or Idols, they worshipped and sacrificed vnto; they called them Pururaucas, and carried them to the warre with great deuo∣tion, beleeuing for certaine, that they had gotten the victorie by their helpe. The imagination

and fiction of this Ingua was of such force, that by the meanes thereof hee obtayned goodly vi∣ctories: He founded the Familie called Yuacapanaca, and made a great Image of gold, which hee called Indijllapa, which he placed in a Brancard of gold, very rich, and of great price, of the which gold the Indians tooke great store to carry to Xaxamalca, for the libertie and ransome of Atahul∣pa, when the Marquesse Francis Piçarre held him prisoner. The Licenciate Polo found in his house in Cusco, his seruants and Mamacomas, which did seruice to his memorie, and found that the body had beene transported from Patallacta to Totocache, where the Spaniards haue since foun∣ded the Parish of Saint Blaise. This body was so whole and preserued with a certaine Rosin, that it seemed aliue, he had his eyes made of a fine cloth of gold, so artificially set, as they seemed very [ 10] naturall eyes, he had a blow with a stone on the head, which he had receiued in the warres, hee was all grey and hayrie, hauing lost no more haire then if he had dyed but the same day, although it were seuentie and eight yeeres since his decease. The foresaid Polo sent this body with some others of the Inguas, to the Citie of Lima, by the Vice-royes command which was the Marquesse of Canette, and the which was very necessarie to roote out the Idolatrie of Cusco. Many Spani∣ards haue seene this body with others in the Hospitall of Saint Andrew, which the Marquesse built, but they were much decayed. Don Philip Caritopa, who was grand-child or great grand-child to this Ingua, affirmed that the treasure hee left to his Familie was great, which should bee in the power of the Yanaconas, Amaro, Toto, and others. To this Ingua succeeded To∣paingua Yupangui, to whom his sonne of the same name succeeded, who founded the Familie [ 20] called Cupac Aillo.

TO this latter Ingua succeeded Guaynacapa, which is to say, A young man, rich and valiant,* 6.488 and so was he in truth, more then any of his Predecessors, or Successors. He was very wise, planting good orders throughout his whole Realme, he was a bold and resolute man, valiant, and very happy in warre. He therefore obtayned great victories, and extended his Dominions much farther then all his Predecessors had done before him; he dyed in the Realme of Quitto, the which he had conquered, foure hundred leagues distant from his Court. The Indians opened him after his decease, leauing his heart and entrailes in Quitto, the body was carried to Cusco, the which was placed in the renowmed Temple of the Sunne. Wee see yet to this day many Caw∣seys, [ 30] Buildings, Fortresses, and notable workes of this King: hee founded the Familie of Teme Bamba. This Guaynacapa was worshipped of his subiects for a god, being yet aliue,* 6.489 as the old men affirme, which was not done to any of his Predecessors. When hee dyed, they slue a thou∣sand persons of his houshold, to serue him in the other life, all which dyed willingly for his ser∣uice, insomuch that many of them offered themselues to death, besides such as were appointed: his riches and treasure was admirable. And forasmuch as the Spaniards entred soone after his death, the Indians laboured much to conceale all, although a great part thereof was carried to Xaxamalca, for the ransome of Atahulpa his sonne. Some worthy of credit,* 6.490 affirme that he had aboue three hundred sonnes and grand-children in Cusco. His mother called Mama••ella was much esteemed amongst them. Polo sent her body with that of Guaynacapa very well imbal∣med [ 40] to Lima, rooting out infinite Idolatries. To Guaynacapa succeeded in Cusco a sonne of his called Titocussigualpa, who since was called Guaspar Ingua, his body was burned by the Captaines of Atahualpa, who was likewise sonne to Guaynacapa, and rebelled in Quitto against his bro∣ther, marching against him with a mightie Armie. It happened that Quisquits and Chilicuchi, Captaines to Atahualpa, tooke Guaspar Ingua in the Citie of Cusco, being receiued for Lord and King (for that he was the lawfull successor) which caused great sorrow throughout all his King∣dome, especially in his Court. And as alwayes in their necessities they had recourse to sacrifices, finding themselues vnable to set their Lord at libertie, aswell for the great power the Captaines had that tooke him, as also, for the great Armie that came with Atahualpa, they resolued (some say by the commandement of this Ingua) to make a great and solemne sacrifice to Viracocha Pachayachachic, which signifieth vniuersall Creator, desiring him, that since they could not deliuer [ 50] their Lord, he would send men from Heauen to deliuer him from prison. And as they were in this great hope, vpon their sacrifice, newes came to them, that a certaine people come by Sea, was landed, and had taken Atahualpa prisoner. Hereupon they called the Spaniards Viracochas, beleeuing they were men sent from God,* 6.491 as well for the small number they were to take Ata∣hualpa in Xaxamalca, as also, for that it chanced after their sacrifice done to Viracocha, and there∣by they began to call the Spaniards Viracochas, as they doe at this day. And in truth, if we had giuen them good example, and such as we ought, the Indians had well applyed it, in saying they were men sent from God. It is a thing very well worthy of consideration, how the greatnesse and prouidence of God, disposed of the en••rie of our men at Peru, which had beene impossible,* 6.492 [ 60] were not the dissention of the two Brethren and their Partisans, and the great opinion they had of Christians, as of men sent from Heauen, bound (by the taking of the Indians Country) to la∣bour to win soules vnto Almightie God.

THe rest of this subiect is handled at large by the Spanish Writers in the Histories of the In∣dies,* 6.493 and for that it is not my purpose, I will speake onely of the succession of the Inguas. Atahualpa being dead in Xaxamalca, and Guascar in Cusco, and Francis Piçarre with his people hauing seised on the Realme, Mangocapa sonne to Guaynacapa besieged them in Cusco very straightly: but in the end he abandoned the whole Country, and retyred himselfe to Vilca Bam∣ba, where he kept himselfe in the Mountaines, by reason of the rough and difficult accesse, and there the Successors Inguas remayned, vntill Amaro, who was taken and executed in the market place of Cusco, to the Indians incredible griefe and sorrow, seeing iustice done vpon him pub∣liquely whom they held for their Lord. After which time, they imprisoned others of the Linage of these Inguas. I haue knowne Don Charles, grand-child to Guaynacapa, and sonne to Polo, [ 10] who was baptized, and alwayes fauoured the Spaniards against Mangocapa his brother, when the Marquesse of Canette gouerned in this Country Sarritopaingua, went from Vilcabamba, and came vpon assurance to the Citie of Kings, where there was giuen to him the Valley of Yucay, and other things, to whom succeeded a daughter of his. Behold the succession which is knowne at this day of that great and rich Familie of the Inguas, whose raigne continued aboue three hundred yeeres, wherein they reckon eleuen Successors, vntill it was wholly extinguished. In the other Linage of Vrincusco,* 6.494 which (as we haue said before) had his beginning likewise from the first Mangocapa, they reckon eight Successors in this sort: To Mangocapa succeeded Cin∣choraca, to him Capac Yupangui, to him Lluqui Yupangui, to him Mayraca paest Tarcogumam, vnto whom succeeded his sonne, whom they name not, to this sonne succeeded Don Iean [ 20] Tambo, Maytapanaça. This sufficeth for the originall and succession of the Inguas, that gouer∣ned the Land of Peru, with that that I haue spoken of their Lawes, Gouernment, and man∣ner of Life.

* 6.495ALthough you may see by the Historie written of the Kingdome, succession, and beginning of the Mexicans, their manner of Commonweale and Gouernment, yet will I speake briefly what I shall thinke fit in generall to bee most obserued: whereof I w••ll discourse more amply in the Historie. The first point whereby wee may iudge the Mexican gouernment to bee very politike, is the order they had and kept inuiolable in the election of their King: for since their first, called Acamapach, vnto their last, which was Moteçuma, the second of that name, [ 30] there came none to the Crowne by right of succession, but by a lawfull Nomination and Electi∣on. This election in the beginning was by the voice of the Commons, although the chiefe men managed it. Since in the time of Iscoalt the fourth King, by the aduise and order of a wise and valiant man, called Tlacael, there were foure certaine Electors appointed, which (with two Lords or Kings subiect to the Mexican, the one of Tescuco, and the other of Tucuba) had power to make this election. They did commonly choose young men for their Kings, because they went alwayes to the warres, and this was in a manner the chiefe cause why they desired them so. They had a speciall regard that they should bee fit for the warres, and take delight and glorie therein. After the election they made two kindes of feasts, the one in taking possession of the Royall E∣state, for the which they went to the Temple, making great ceremonies and sacrifices vpon the [ 40] Harth, called Diuine, where there was a continuall fire before the Altar of the Idoll, and after some Rhetoricians practised therein, made many Orations and Speeches. The other feast, and the most solemne, was at his Coronation, for the which hee must first ouercome in battell, and bring a certaine number of Captiues, which they must sacrifice to their gods; hee entred in triumph with great pompe, making him a solemne reception, aswell they of the Temple, who went all in procession, sounding on sundrie sorts of instruments, giuing Incense, and singing like secular men, as also the Courtiers, who came forth with their deuises to receiue the v••ctorious King.* 6.496 The Crowne or royall Ensigne was before like a Myter, and behinde it was cut, so as it was not round, for the forepart was higher, and did rise like a point. The King of Tescuco had the priuilege to crown the King of Mexico. In the beginning when the Mexicans were but poore [ 50] and weake, the Kings were very moderate in their expenses and in their Court, but as they in∣creased in power, they increased likewise in pompe and state, vntill they came to the greatnesse of Moteçuma,* 6.497 who if he had had no other thing but his house of Beasts and Birds, it had beene a proud thing, the like whereof hath not beene seene: for there was in this house all sorts of fish, birds of Xacamamas, and beasts, as in an other Noahs Arke; for Sea fish, there were Pooles of salt-water; and for Riuer fish, Lakes of fresh-water; birds that doe prey were fed, and likewise wilde beasts in great abundance: there were very many Indians imployed for the keeping of these beasts: and when he found an impossibilitie to nourish any sort of fish, fowle, or wilde beast, he caused the Image or likenesse to be made, richly cut in precious stones, siluer, or gold, in marble, or in stone: and for all sorts of entertainments, he had his seuerall Houses and Palaces, some of pleasure, others of sorrow and mourning, and others to treat of the affaires of the Realme. There [ 60] was in this Palace many Chambers,* 6.498 according to the qualitie of the Noble men that serued him, with a strange order and distinction.

THe Mexicans haue beene very curious, to diuide the degrees and dignities amongst the noble men and Lords,* 6.499 that they might distinguish them to whom they were to giue the greatest honor. The dignitie of these foure Electors was the greatest, and most honorable, next to the King, and they were chosen presently after the Kings election. They were commonly brothers, or very neere Kinsmen to the King, and were called Tlacohecalcalt, which signifies Prince of darts, the which they cast, being a kinde of armes they vse much. The next dignitie to this, were those they doe call Tlacatecati, which is to say, Circumcisers or Cutters of men.* 6.500 The third dignitie were of those which they called Ezuahuacalt, which signifies, A shedder of bloud. All the which Titles and Dignities were exercised by men of warre. There was another, a fourth intituled,* 6.501 [ 10] Tlilancalqui, which is as much to say, as, Lord of the blacke house, or of darknesse, by reason of cer∣taine Inke wherewith the Priests anointed themselues, and did serue in their Idolatries.* 6.502 All these foure Dignities were of the great Counsell, without whose aduise the King might not doe any thing of importance: and the King being dead, they were to choose another in his place out of one of those foure Dignities. Besides these, there were other Counsels and Audiences, and some say there were as many as in Spaine, and that there were diuers Seates and Iurisdictions,* 6.503 with their Counsellors and Iudges of the Court, and others that were vnder them, as Corrigidors, chiefe Iudges, Captaines of Iustice, Lieutenants, and others, which were yet inferior to these, with a very goodly order. All which depended on the foure first Princes that assisted the King. These foure onely had authoritie and power to condemne to death, and the rest sent them instructions [ 20] of the Sentences they had giuen. By meanes whereof they gaue the King to vnderstand what had passed in his Realme.

There was a good order and settled policie for the Reuenues of the Crowne, for there were Officers diuided throughout all the Prouinces, as Receiuers and Treasurers, which receiued the Tributes and Royall Reuenues. And they carried the Tribute to the Court, at the least euery moneth; which Tribute was of all things that doe grow or ingender on the Land, or in the wa∣ter, aswell of Iewels and Apparell, as of Meat. They were very carefull for the well ordering of that which concerned their Religion, Superstition, and Idolatries: and for this occasion there were a great number of Ministers, to whom charge was giuen to teach the people the custome and ceremonies of their Law.* 6.504 Hereupon one day a christian Priest made his complaint that the [ 30] Indians were no good Christians, and did not profit in the Law of God; an old Indian answered him very well to the purpose, in these termes: Let the Priest (said he) imploy as much care and di∣ligence to make the Indians Christians, as the Ministers of Idols did to teach them their ceremonies; for with halfe that care they will make vs the best Christians in the world, for that the Law of Iesus Christ is much better; but the Indians learne it not, for want of men to instruct them. Wherein he spake the very truth, to our great shame and confusion.

THe Mexicans gaue the first place of honour to the profession of Armes,* 6.505 and therefore the Noble-men are their chiefe Souldiers, and others that were not noble, by their valour and reputation gotten in warres, came to Dignities and Honors, so as they were held for Noble-men. [ 40] They gaue goodly recompences to such as had done valiantly, who inioyed priuiledges that none else might haue, the which did much incourage them. Their Armes were of Rasors of sharpe cut∣ting flints, which they set on either side of a staffe, which was so furious a weapon, as they affir∣med that with one blow, they would cut off the necke of a Horse.* 6.506 They had strange and heauy Clubs, Lances, fashioned like Pikes, and other manner of Darts to cast, wherein they were very expert; but the greatest part of their combate was performed with stones. For defensiue armes they had little Rondaches or Targats, and some kinde of Morions or Head-pieces inuironed with feathers. They were clad in the skinnes of Tigres, Lions, and other sauage beasts. They came presently to hands with the Enemie, and were greatly practised to runne and wrestle, for thir chiefe manner of combate, was not so much to kill, as to take Captiues, the which they vsed in their sacrifices, as hath beene said. Moteçuma set Knight-hood in his highest splendor, orday∣ning [ 50] certaine militarie orders, as Commanders, with certaine markes and ensignes. The most honorable amongst the Knights, were those that carried the crowne of their haire tied with a little red Ribband, hauing a rich plume of feathers, from the which,* 6.507 did hang branches of fea∣thers vpon their shoulders, and rolls of the same. They carried so many of these rolls, as they had done worthy deeds in warre. The King himselfe was of this order, as may be seene in Chapulte∣pec, where Moteçuma and his sonnes were attyred with those kindes of feathers, cut in the Rocke, the which is worthy the sight. There was another order of Knight-hood, which they called the Lions and the Tigres, the which were commonly the most valiant and most noted in warre, they went alwayes with their Markes and Armories. There were other Knights,* 6.508 as the [ 60] Grey Knights, the which were not so much respected as the rest: they had their haire cut round about the eare. They went to the warre with markes like to the other Knights, yet they were not armed, but to the girdle, and the most honorable were armed all ouer. All Knights might carry gold and siluer, and weare rich Cotton, vse painted and gilt vessell, and carry shooes after their manner: but the common people might vse none but earthen vessell,* 6.509 neither might they

carry shooes, nor attire themselues but in Nequen, the which is a grosse stuffe. Euery order of these Knights had his lodging in the Pallace noted with their markes; the first was called the Princes lodging, the second of Eagles, the third of Lyons and Tigers, and the fourth of the grey Knights. The other common officers, were lodged vnderneath in meaner lodging••: if any one lodged out of his place, he suffred death.

THere is nothing that giues me more cause to admire, nor that I finde more worthy of com∣mendations and memory,* 6.510 then the order and care the Mexicans had to nourish their youth: for they knew well, that all the good hope of a Common-weale, consisted in the nurture and in∣stitution of youth, whereof Plato treates amply in his bookes De Legibus: and for this reason they laboured and tooke paines to sequester their children from delights and liberties (which are [ 10] the two plagues of this age) imploying them in honest and profitable exercises. For this cause there was in their Temples,* 6.511 a priuate house for children, as Schooles, or Colledges, which was seperate from that of the yong men and maides of the Temple, whereof we haue discoursed as large. There were in these Schooles a great number of children, whom their fathers did willing∣ly bring thither, and which had teachers and masters to instruct them in all commendable ex∣ercises, to be of good behauiour, to respect their superiours, to serue and obey them, giuing them to this end, certaine precepts and instructions. And to the end they might be pleasing to No∣blemen, they taught them to sing and dance, and did practise them in the exercise of warre; some to shoote an Arrow, to cast a dart or a staffe burnr at the end, and to handle well a Target [ 20] and a Sword. They suffered them not to sleepe much, to the end they might accustome them∣selues to labour in their youth, and not be men giuen to delights. Besides the ordinary number of these children, there were in the same Colledges, other children of Lords and Noblemen, the which were instructed more priuately. They brought them their meate and ordinary from their houses,* 6.512 and were recommended to ancients and old men to haue care ouer them, who continually did aduise them to be vertuous and to liue chastely; to be sober in their diet, to fast, and to march grauely, and with measure. They were accustomed to exercise them to trauell, and in labori∣ous exercises: and when they see them instructed in all these things, they did carefully looke in∣to their inclination: if they found any one addicted vnto warre, being of sufficient yeares, they sought all occasions to make triall of them, sending them to the warre, vnder colour to carrie [ 30] victuals and munition to the Souldiers, to the end they might there see what passed, and the la∣bour they suffered. And that they might abandon all feare, they were laden with heauie bur∣thens, that shewing their courage therein, they might more easily be admitted into the com∣pany of Souldiers. By this meanes it happened, that many went laden to the Armie, and re∣turned Captaines with markes of honour. Some of them were so desirous to be noted, as they were either taken, or slaine: and they held it lesse honourable to remaine a prisoner. And there∣fore they sought rather to be cut in peeces, then to fall captiues into their enemies hands. See how Noblemens children that were inclined to the warres were imployed. The others that had their inclination to matters of the Temple; and to speake after our manner, to be Ecclesiasti∣call men, hauing attained to sufficient yeares, they were drawne out of the colledge, and pla∣ced [ 40] in the Temple, in the lodging appointed for religious men, and then they gaue them the order of Ecclesiasticall men. There had they Prelates and Masters, to teach them that which concerned their profession, where they should remaine being destined thereunto. These Mexi∣cans tooke great care to bring vp their children: if at this day they would follow this order, in building of houses & colledges for the instruction of youth,* 6.513 without doubt Christianitie should flourish much amongst the Indians. Some godly persons haue begunne, and the King with his Counsell haue fauoured it: but for that it is a matter of no profit, they aduance little, and pro∣ceede coldly.

We haue not discouered any Nation at the Indians, that liue in comminalties, which haue not their recreations,* 6.514 in plaies, dances, and exercises of pleasure. At Peru I haue seene plaies in man∣ner [ 50] of combats, where the men of both sides were sometimes so chafed, that often their Paella (which was the name of this exercise) fell out dangerous. I haue also seene diuers sorts of dances, wherein they did counterfait and represent certaine trades and offices, as shepheards, la∣bourers, fishers, and hunters, and commonly they made all those dances, with a very graue sound and pale: there were other dances and maskes, which they called Guacones, whose actions were pure representations of the deuill. There were also men that dance on the shoulders one of another,* 6.515 as they doe in Portugall, the which they call Paellas. The greatest pars of these dances, were superstitions, and kindes of Idolatries: for that they honoured their Idols and Guacas in that manner. For this reason the Prelates haue laboured to take from them these dances, all they could: but yet they suffer them, for that part of them are but sports of recreation: for alwayes they dance after their manner. In these dances, they vse sundry sorts of instruments, whereof, [ 60] some are like Flutes, or little Canons, others like Drums, and others like Cornets: but common∣ly they sing all with the voyce, and first one or two sing the song, then all the rest answer them. Some of these songs were very wittily composed, containing Histories, and others were full of

superstitions, and some were meere follies. Our men that haue conuersed among them, haue laboured to reduce matters of our holy faith to their tunes, the which hath profited well: for that they employ whole dayes to rehearse and sing them, for the great pleasure and content they take in their tunes. They haue likewise put our compositions of Musicke into their Language, as Octaues, Songs, and Rondels, the which they haue very aptly turned, and in truth it is a good∣ly and very necessary meanes to instruct the people. In Peru, they commonly call Dances Ta∣gui, in other Prouinces, Areittos, and in Mexico, Mittottes. There hath not beene in any other place, any such curiositie of Playes and Dances, as in New Spaine, where at this day we see Indians so excellent Dancers, as it is admirable. Some dance vpon a Cord, some vpon a long and streight [ 10] stake, in a thousand sundry sorts; others with the soles of their feet and their hammes, do handle,* 6.516 cast vp and receiue againe a very heauy blocke, which seemes incredible but in seeing it. They doe make many other shewes of their great agilitie, in leaping, vaulting, and tumbling, sometimes bearing a great and heauy burthen, sometimes enduring blowes able to breake a barre of Iron. But the most vsuall exercise of recreation among the Mexicans is the solemne Mittotte,* 6.517 and that is a kind of dance they held so braue and so honourable, that the King himselfe danced, but not ordinarily, as the King Don Pedro of Arragon with the Barber of Valencia. This Dance or Mittotte, was commonly made in the Courts of the Temple, and in those of the Kings houses, which were more spacious. They did place in the midst of the Court two Instruments, one like to a Drumme, and the other like a Barrell made of one piece, and hollow within, which they [ 20] set vpon the forme of a man, a beast, or vpon a Pillar.

These two Instruments were so well accorded together, that they made a good harmony and with these Instruments they made many kinds of Ayres and Songs. They did all sing and dance to the sound and measure of these Instruments, with so goodly an order and accord, both of their feet and voyces, as it was a pleasant thing to behold. In these Dances they made two Cir∣cles or Wheeles, the one was in the middest neere to the Instruments, wherein the Ancients and Noblemen did sing and dance with a soft and slow motion; and the other was of the rest of the people round about them, but a good distance from the first, wherein they danced two and two more lightly, making diuers kinds of paces, with certayne leaps to the measure. All which to∣gether made a very great Circle. They attyred themselues for these Dances with their most pre∣cious [ 30] apparell and Iewels, euery one according to his abilitie, holding it for a very honourable thing: for this cause they learned these Dances from their infancie. And although the greatest part of them were done in honour of their Idols, yet was it not so instituted, as hath beene said, hut only as a recreation and pastime for the people. Therefore it is not conuenient to take them quite from the Indians, but they must take good heed they mingle not their superstitions amongst them. I haue seene this Mittotte, in the Court of the Church of Topetzotlan, a Village seuen leagues from Mexico: and in my opinion, it was a good thing to busie the Indians vpon Festi∣uall dayes, seeing they haue need of some recreation: and because it is publike, and without the preiudice of any other, there is lesse inconuenience, then in others which may be done priuately by themselues, if they tooke away these.

[ 40]

To the Reader.

REader, I here present vnto thee the choisest of my Iewels. My trauelling fancis hath inuited ma∣ny Readers to many my labours in strange births already. Q••ae regio in terris nostri non plena la∣boris? Iaponian and China rarities so remote from our world, are neere to our worke, and their chara∣cters communicated here to the Reader; not their arts alone. Thou hast here also Indostan, Arabike, Per∣sian, Turkish, add other Letters, and not onely the transcript from their languages. As for translations and collections, thou hast them here also out of the Hebrew, Auncient and Moderne Greeke, Abassine, Tartarian, Russian, Polonian, Aegyptian, and innumerable other Nations Christian, Iewish, Mahu∣metan, Ethnike, Ciuill, Barbarian and Sauage, innumerable wayes diuersified. Yet all these in letters, [ 50] or characters. In hieroglyphicall mysticall pictures the ancient Aegyptians and Ethiopians, haue by way of Emblemes obscurely and darkly deliuered their obscure mysteries, vncertaine, waxenly, pliant con∣ceits to the world; some of which our Pilgrimage hath mentioned. But a Historie, yea a Politicke, E∣thike, Ecclesiastike, Oeconomike History, with iust distinctions of times, places, acts and arts, we haue nei∣ther seene of theirs, nor of any other Nation, but of this, which our light and slight apprehensions terme not barbarous alone, but wilde and sauage. Such an one we here present, a present thought fit for him whom the senders esteemed the greatest of Princes, and yet now presented to thy hands before it could ar∣riue in his presence. For the Spanish Gouernour hauing with some difficultie (as the Spanish Preface imports) obtained the Booke of the Indians, with Mexican interpretations of the Pictures (but ten daies [ 60] before the departure of the Ships) committed the same to one skilfull in the Mexican language to be in∣terpreted; who in a very plaine stile and verbatim performed the same, vsing also some Morisco words, as Al••aqui and Mezquitas (for Priest and Temples) import. This Historie thus written, sent to Charles the fifth Emperour, was together with the Shippe that carried it taken by F••enchmen of war, from whom Andrew Theuet the French Kings Geographer, obtained the same: after whose death,

Master Hakluyt (then Chaplaine to the English Embassadour in France) bought the same for 20. French crownes, and procured Master Michael Locke in Sir Walter Raleighs name to translate it. It seemes that none were willing to be at the cost of cutting the Pictures, and so it remained amongst his papers till his death, whereby (according to his last will in that kinde) I became possessour thereof, and haue obtained with much earnestnesse the cutting thereof for the Presse. The rather was I eagerly vehe∣ment herein, as being a thing desired by that most industrious Antiquary, iudicious Scholler, Religious Gentleman,* 6.518 our Ecclesiastike Secular, the Churches champion, Sir Henry Spelman, Knight; whom for honors sake I name, that his name may honour our ruder lines; a name so fitting to the Man, as one which ••an, in regard of his wise spell and science in diuine & humane learning, and is ready, with maine courage and alacritie to shew himselfe the Churches Man, and to exhibit himselfe in deede whatsoeuer any man can spell, out of Spel-man. The commending from such a friend (let the Muses impetrate [ 10] pardon for so bold a name) was a commanding vnto me, which here I againe commend to Him and thee.

It is diuided into three parts; the first being the Annales and Mexican Chronicle: the second, their Exchequer or the Accounts of their seuerall Tributes paid them from the Nations and peoples tributary, whereby may be seene the Naturall riches of those parts peculiarly sorted: the third the Mexican Oeconomie and Policie in warre and peace, religious and secular, their priuate and pub∣like rites from the graue of the wombe, to the wombe of the graue. Obscure places I haue explained (besides what before in Acosta thou hast read) comparing the translation with the originall, adding ma∣ny of mine owne: and perhaps there is not any one History of this kinde in the world comparable to this, so fully expressing so much without Letters; hardly gotten, and easily lost, that thou maist here [ 20] finde it.

CHAP. VII. The History of the Mexican Nation, described in pictures by the Mexican Author explained in the Mexican language; which exposition transla∣ted into Spanish, and thence into English, together with [ 30] the said Picture-historie, are here presented.

§. I. The Mexican Chronicle.

HEre beginneth the Historie and foundation of the Citie of Mexico, founded and inhabited by the Mexicans, who at that time were called Meçiti; whose origi∣nall beginning of being Lords, and their acts and liues are declared briefely in [ 40] this Historie, according as it is signified and set out successiuely by the pictures and paintings following.

In the yeare 1324. after the comming of our Lord and Sauiour Iesus Christ, the Mexican people first arriued at the place of the Citie of Mexico, and because they liked well the greatnesse and the scituation of that place, after that they had trauailed in their Iournies, and wandered many yeares from Country to Countrey, & in some of them had made their abode, for some yeares, being come from far Countries in following their Iournies, and not being contented with the other places where they had made their abode, they came and setled themselues in the place of Mexico. The which place at that time was all drowned with water, and was couered with great bogs and bankes of moorish shegs and bulrushes, which they call Tuli, and it had Car∣rizales, [ 50] and great plats of dry ground couered with shrubbes, bushes, and briars like woods. And through all the space of that place there went a spring & streame of fair cleere water which was free from all segges and bushes, which water streame went through it crossewise, in manner of Saint Andrewes crosse, as it is shewed in the picture: and about the middle of that place of that water-streame, the Meçiti found a great rocke of stone, and growing thereon a great Tree or bush called Tunal, wherein a great Eagle Candal had her haunt and abode for her foode, so as all about that place was scattered full of bones and feathers of diuers Birds and Foules of diuers colours. And they hauing gone throughout all that place and Countrie thereabout, and finding it very fruitfull and full of wilde beasts, wilde Foules, Birds, and Fishes, and things of the wa∣ter, wherewith to sustaine themselues and to profit themselues in their businesse in dealing with [ 60] the Townes thereabouts, and finding the water-courses of that place so commodious, and that their Neighbours could not trouble nor hurt them, and for other things and causes to their good liking they determined to passe no further on their iourneyes in trauelling, but to settle

themselues and dwell still. And according to their determination, they did settle themselues there effectually. And made themselues a strong Citie of defence with bankes and walles about the waters, and on the plats of ground among the ••egges and Bushes of Tulis and Carrizales. And for a beginning of that their seate and habitation, it was determined by them, to giue name and title to that place, calling it Tenultitlan. By reason and cause of the Tunal growing out of the Rocke (for Tenuchtitlan interpreted in our Castilian Spanish Tongue is Tunal growing vpon a Rocke.)

The armie of the Mexican people had with them for chiefe Gouernours ten persons named, Ocelopan, Quapan, Acacitli, Ahuexolt, Te••uch, T••cincuh, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Xocoyol, Xuihcaqui, Atototl, [ 10] as it is shewed in the Pictures. And hauing so setled themselues, they did chuse Tenuch for their chiefe Gouernour and Lord to gouerne them, as a person especially chosen thereto and fit for it, hauing in him all parts and abilitie to exercise Lordship. And they appointed the other chiefe Gouernours, that they should be Agents and Captaynes, Gouernours vnder him.

And after some yeeres were pass••d of their dwelling in that place, and the people multiplyed, the Citie likewise was named Mexico, so named and deriued of the Mexicans, calling it the place of setling of the Mexican people.

And when the people were some what multiplyed like bold and warlike people, they tooke beginning of couragious mindes in preuayling ouer their Neighbours, and so shewed themselues in force of armes, whereby they subdued and made tributarie to them two Townes next ad∣ioyning [ 20] to Mexico, named Colhuacan, and Tenaincan; as likewise is set forth in the pictures:* 6.519 the which doings passed in the time of the gouernment of the chiefe Lord Tenuch, which was the space of fiftie one yeares, at the end whereof he died.

Concerning the Pictures of blew in the margents of this Historie, it is to be vnderstood that euery seuerall space or partition doth signifie one yeare, and they bee the numbring of yeares: it is to be vnderstood that euery seuerall space or partition signifie the one seuerall yeare, and so they accounted & numbred euery yeare seuerally, proceeding by the number of rundles or pricks therein contained, beginning at one, and proceeding to thirteene rundles. And from thence they began againe at the beginning in their accompt from one point or rundle, and so according∣ly they did proceede in numbering againe, till they came to thirteene. And although that in [ 30] the partitions or spaces seuerally there be diuers seuerall figures, yet the principall accompt of numbering is that accompt of the pictures or rundles therein contained. And although the names of the yeares that they giue to euery partition from the number of the first point till the thirteenth be to some purpose▪ yet for to aduertise the Reader thereof; here is made by it selfe a declaration of the names, with their interpretations.

In the order and rule of the partitions which are numbred for yeares, that partition where there is a branch with a foote like a flower, it doth signifie a bitter and vnfortunate yeare which the Mexicans had, and did feare, saying that their predecessours time out of minde did giue them warning that such yeares which befell euery two and fiftieth yeare were dangerous, and vnfortunate, and bitter yeares, because that in such yeares there were floods generally, and like∣wise [ 40] darkenesse of the eclips of the Sunne, and vniuersall earthquakes. And likewise in such yeares they made great sacrifice and ceremonies to their gods, and gaue themselues to repen∣tance, and did abstaine from all vices against the very day and houre of such a yeare. In the which day generally they put out all their lights and fires till that day were past; and being pas∣sed they kindled new lights being had out of a Mountaine by a Priest.

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[ 50] This is a weeke of yeares after the Mexican computation (all coloured blew, the Mexican names written ouer in red) the first of which they call Setuchtli, that is, one Conie: the second Omeacalt, or two Canes: the third Yeytecpatl, three Flints: the fourth Macuilituchtli, which signifieth foure hou∣ses: the fifth Criquacenacatl, that is fiue Conies: the sixth, sixe Canes: the seuenth, seuen Flints: the eight, eight Houses: the ninth, nine Conies: the tenth, ten Canes: the eleuenth, eleuen Flints: the twelfth, twelue Houses: the thirteenth, thirteene Conies.

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[ 60] This Picture presents the number of 51. yeares: that is, the time of Tenuchs reigne: in this wheele or square (which, as all the like representing yeares are in the originall picture coloured blew) The pictures of men signifie the ten Lords or Gouernours before mentioned; their names are inscribed in the originall pictures, which here we ••aue by the letters annexed directly to a following glosse. A. Acacitli. B Quapan. C Ocelopan. D Aguexo••l. E T••cineuh. F Tenuch. G Xominitl. H Xocoyol. I Xu••∣caqui.

K Atotl. L Tenochtitlan, representing the armes which they vsed in the conquest of that place, which they so intituled is M the Tunal (painted greene) growing out of a Rock. N the Eagle. O their setling or habitation. P the people of Colhua∣can Q Tenayncan: both which Nations R Tenuch conquered by force of ••rmes, as appeareth S their subiection or bring∣ing vnder. T is the blue square and Saint Andrewes crosse. The former relation doth more fully lay open these things.

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In this figure is represented the raigne of their second Lord or King Acamapich. A is the time of his reigne 21. yeeres. B Acamapichtli the successor. C His target and arrowes in∣struments of warre, by force whereof he subdued these foure townes or peoples figured D Quau∣nahuac. G Mizquic. H Caitlahuac. I Xo∣chimilco. E is the same Acamapichtli as a conqueror. F by foure faces and ensignes shew∣ing [ 50] the men of those foure Townes (to each of which is added like ensigne) subdued. This picture therefore doth in figures signifie, that which we in letters thus;

IN the yeere 1377. in the said Gouernment and Lordship succeeded Acamapichtli. And during his Lordship he subdued and conquered by force of armes the foure Townes contayned and named in the pictures here before, which are these: Quau∣hnahnac, Misquic, Cuitla••aac, and Xochimilco, the [ 60] which were tributaries to him, acknowledging their subiection. In the yeeres that the said Acamapich liued in the said Lordship: his inclination and vse was to haue many wiues, the which were daughters of all the principall men of Mexico, by whom he had many sons which were the beginning and increase of many Caciques, and Captaines, and warlike people, by meanes of whom the Citie of Mexico was enlarged and augmented in great might, as is signified hereafter in the discourses by the pi∣ctures,

with their declarations. The two pictures with their titles & names of Acamapich be one same thing to diuers effects, for the first sheweth his beginning and succession of the said Lordship, and the second sheweth the yeere af∣ter his succession in the said Lordship, when hee began to conquer and subdue the said foure Townes. And in the said Lordship he had his course one and twentie yeeres, at the end whereof the said Acamapich dyed and departed this present life, the which said departure was in the yeere 1398.

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[ 60] A 21. yeeres. B Towne and People of Toltitlan. C Quauztitlan. D Chalco. H Tulancinco. I Xaltocan. K Otunpa. L Acolma. M Tezcuco. E The Cutter hath set letters to diuers figures

whereof I can giue no interpretation: and such is this, except perhaps it signifieth that in his seuenth yeere he began his conquests. For I doe here interpret diuers in which the Spanish is silent, if the conie∣cture seeme easier. F is King Huiçilihuitl. G the instruments of warre.

IN the yeere 1396. in the said Lordship succeeded Huiçilihuitl sonne of Acamapich, and during the time of his reigne in his Lordship, he conquered by force of armes eight Townes, which are contayned in the pictures here before, with the names of the same Townes intituled, the which were made tributarie to the Mexican Lordship acknowledging seruitude. The said Huiçilihuitl was valiant in warres, and inclined to haue many wiues by whom he had many sons, [ 10] wherewith the power of the Mexicans was augmented. The time of the Lordship and life of the said Huiçilihuitl therein was 21. yeeres, at the end whereof he dyed and departed this pre∣sent life, according as by the pictures of blue are numbred.

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[ 50] A tenne yeeres. B Chimalpupuca. C Target and Darts, to intimate his forcible conquest of D Tequixquiac and E Chalco. F sheweth his death. G the Towne of Chalco in rebellion. H the foure Canoas and I the fiue men abouesaid of Mexico, which the Rebels slue. You see this King and euery other both King and Towne distinguished by speciall Armes or Scutchions, with other par∣ticulars, [ 60] which here and in all the rest I leaue to each Readers owne industrie and search.

IN the yeere 1470. after the death of Huicilihuitl succeeded Chimalpupuca in the said Lordship of Mexico, sonne of the said Huicilihuitl, and during his time hee subdued by force of armes the Townes of Tequixquiac, and Chalco, which Chalco is a great Towne and acknowledging ser∣uitude:

they paid tribute to the Lordship of Mexico, according as the pictures doe shew. And hauing the said Townes thus in subiection, at the end of certaine yeeres the said Towne of Chalco, being mightie, rebelled against the Mexicans, and in the rebellion there grew danger to the Mexicans, insomuch that they slue fiue of them, and brake them foure Canoas, according as here is signified by the pictures. The time of the life and Lordship of the said Chimalpupuca was ten yeeres, at the end whereof hee dyed, according as is numbred by the blue pictures in the margent. And likewise the said Chimalpupuca, in the time of his life had many wiues and sons; for it was accounted a matter of reputation.

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[ 40] The explanation of the first Table A 13. yeeres. Yzcoatci. F by force of Armes (signified by this Target and Darts) subdued the Townes and Territories of B Azcapucalco. C Coyvacan. D [ 50] Teocalhucyacan. G Guagua••an. H Tlacopan. I Atlacuihuayan. K Mixcoac. L Quauximal∣pan. M Quauhtitlan. N Tupan. O Acolhuacan.

IN the yeere 1427. in the said Dominion of Mexico, after the death of Chimalpopuca, succee∣ded Yzcoatçi, Sonne of Acamapich, which had beene Lord of Mexico, and during his time hee conquered by force of Armes foure & twentie Townes which are here pictured, which Townes he made subiect to the Lorship of Mexico, at one inuasion which he made; for he was as valiant and warlike in Armes as the said Acamapich, and was a man of good iudgement, and wise in ma∣ny [ 60] matters, and by his good industries he subdued the said Townes which gaue him tribute, and did acknowledge seruitude. The said Yzcoatçi had many Concubines, by whom he had seuen Sonnes and Daughters and he reigned in the said Lordship thirteene yeeres at the end whereof the said Yzcoatçi dyed and departed this present life.

In the other Table (in the originall being another Page) follow A Mizquic B Cuitlahuac. C Xochinuilcopu. D Chalco. E Quauhtlatoa the Lord of Tlatilulco; the Towne also added. F Hui∣cilapan. G Quauhnahuac. H Cuecalan. I Caqualpan. K Iztepec L Xiuhtepec. M Yoalan. N Tepequacnilco.

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IN the yeere 1440. after the death of Yzcoatçi succeeded Gueguemoteçuma in the Lordship of Mexico, the Sonne of Guiçilihuitl which had beene Lord of Mexico: and during his time, he conquered by force of Armes three and thirtie Townes according as they are pictured in that compasse where the Picture of Gueguemoteçuma standeth. And hauing subdued them to the said [ 50] Lordship of Mexico, they payed him tribute, acknowledging their subiection.

This Gueguemoteçuma was a very seuere and graue Lord, and giuen to vertue, and was a man of a good nature and vnderstanding, and an enemie to all euill vices: and beeing of a good incli∣nation, set downe Orders and Lawes in his Common-wealth, and to all his Seruants how they ought to liue, and also ordayned grieuous penalties for the breach of them: which penalties were executed without any remission vpon those that brake the Lawes. He was not cruell, but rather gentle, and desirous of the welfare of his Subiects, not vicious in women; hee had two Sonnes, hee was very temperate in drinking, for in all his life time hee was neuer seene to bee drunke as the naturall Indians which are extremely inclined to drunkennesse, but rather he com∣manded [ 60] him to be corrected and punished that committed such a fact. And by his seueritie and Iustice and good example of life, hee was feared and reuerenced of all his Subiects, all his life time, which was the space of nine and twentie yeeres. At the end whereof he dyed, and passed out of this present life.

A nine and twentie yeeres. C Huehuemotecçuma. D by force of Armes subdued B Lord Atonal and his Towne Coayxtlahuacan. E Mamalhuaztepec. F Tenanco. G Tetuchtepec. H Chiconquianhco. I Xiuhtepec. K Totolapan. L Chalco. M Quauhnahuac. N Atlatlanhca. O Huaxtepec.

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In the second Table. A Yauhtepec. B Tepuztlan. C Tepatzcince. D Yacapichtlan. E Yoalte∣pec. F Tlachco. G Tlalcocauhtitlan. H Tepequacuilco. I Quiyanteopan. K Chontalcoatlan. L. Hucipuchtlan. M Atotonilco. N Axocopan. O Tulan. P Xilotepec. Q Yzquincuitlapilco. R Atotonilco. S Tlapacoyan. T Chapolixitla. V Tlatlauhquitepec. X Cuetlaxtlan. Y Quanh∣tochco.

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IN the yeere 1479. after the death of Gueguemotezuma, succeeded in the Lordship of Mexico Axayacaci sonne of Teçoçomoetliquieto, which was the sonne of Yzcoalt Lord of Mexico. And during the time that the said Axayacaci was Lord, he conquered and won by force of armes se∣uen and thirtie Townes, as hereafter are pictured and named. Amongst which Townes hee sub∣dued vnder his Lordship by force of armes the Towne of Tlatilulco, a thing of great importance. Moquihuix was Lord of Tlatilulco at that time, who being a mightie person of great strength and of a proud nature,* 6.520 began to giue occasion of dissention and warres to the Lords of Mexico, hauing heretofore held them for friends: by occasion whereof hee had great incounters and bat∣tailes, wherein the said Moquihuix Lord of Tlatilulco dyed in throwing himselfe downe from a Cu (or a high Mezcita, or Temple) for he seeing himselfe so hard beset in the battaile, being al∣most ouercome, entred into a Mizcita to saue himselfe, because hee would not be taken prisoner. [ 10] And an Alfaqui (or Priest) which was in the Mezquito,* 6.521 or Temple, reprouing him for it and imputing cowardise vnto him, he threw himselfe downe as aforesaid. At which time the Mexi∣cans had the victorie. And thenceforth the Towne of Tlatilulco was subiect to the Lord of Mexi∣co, paying tribute and acknowledging subiection. Axayacaci was very valiant and warlike in armes, and was viciously giuen to women, hauing had many wiues and sonnes: he was also proud and warlike, whereby all his subiects feared him extremely: hee did maintaine and hold for good all the Lawes and Ordinances that his predecessor Gueguemotizuma had made, according as hath beene mentioned in his Historie; and hee continued the space of twelue yeeres in the said Lord∣ship of Mexico, at the end whereof he dyed and departed out of this present life.

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[ 50] A twelue yeeres. B Axayacaci. C by armed force subdued these Townes following (not as before expressed in picture) Tlatilulco, Atlapulco, Xalatlanhio, Tlacotepec, Motopec, Capulnac, Ocoy••••ac, Quanhpanoayan, Xochiacan, Teotenanco, Caliymayan, Cinacantepec, Tulucan, Xiquipilco, Tenancinco, Tepeyacac, Tlaximaloyan, Oztoma, Xacotitlan, Ocuilan, Oztoticpac, Matlatlan, Cuezcomatlyacac, Tecalco, Cuetlaxtlan, Puxcauhtlan, Alcuilizapan, Tlaolan, Mixtlan, Cuecaloztoc, Tetzapotitlan, Miquizetlan, Tamuoc, Taupatel, Tuchpan, Tenexticpac, Quauhtlan.

IN the yeere 1482. after the end and death of Axayacaci, succeeded in the Lordship of Mexico, Tiçoçicatzi,* 6.522 sonne of the said Axayacaci, and during the time of his raigne he conquered and [ 60] got by force of armes fourteene Townes. The said Tiçoçicatzi was very valiant and warlike in armes,* 6.523 and before that he succeeded in the Lordship of Mexico, he had done dangerous feates of valiantnesse in his owne person in the warres, whereby hee obtayned the title of Tlacatecatl,

which they esteemed for a Title of great honour and estate: and it was a degree where••y that the Lordship of Mexico being vacant, he which had the same degree and title succeeded in the place of the same Dominion of Mexico, which title in like manner his Predecessors, Bro∣thers, and Father, and Grand-father had, whereby they came to bee Lords of Mexico. Also the said Ticocicatzi by the estate and authoritie of the said Lordship of Mexico, had many Wiues and Sonnes which hee had by them, and he was a graue and seuere man in commanding and was feared and reuerenced of his Subjects, hee was likewise enclined to good and vertuous things, and was good for his Commonwealth. He commanded the Lawes and Statutes to bee kept and approoued for good, that his Predecessors had amplified and kept since the time of Gue∣guemotezuma. [ 10] And he was zealous in punishing and chastning the eu••ll vices and offence, that his Subjects committed. And so the Mexican Commonwealth was well ordered and gouerned the time of his life, which was the space of fiue yeeres, at the end whereof he dyed and depar∣ted this present life.

[illustration]

A

[illustration]

B

[illustration]

C

[ 20] [ 30]

A Fiue yeeres. B Ticocicatzi C by armes subdued these Townes, Tonahymoquezayan, Toxico, Ecatepec, Zilan, Tecaxic, Tuluca, Yancuitlan, Tlapan, Atezcahuacan, Mazatlan, Xochi∣yetla, Tamapachco, Ecatlyquapochco, Miquetlan. [ 40]

IN the yeere 1486. after the death of Tizizocatzi, succeeded Ahuizozin, brother to his Prede∣cessor Tizozicatzi, in the Signorie of Mexico. And during the time of his Lordship, he conque∣red by force of armes fiue and fortie Townes, according as hereafter are pictured and named. The said Ahuizozin was like to his Predecessor and Brother Tizizocatzi in valiantnesse and feates of warre, whereby he got the title of Tlacatecatl, which signifieth a great Captaine, and from the same title he came to be Lord of Mexico. The said Ahuizozin was by nature of a good inclinati∣on, and giuen to all vertue, and likewise in the course of his life hee had his Commonwealth ru∣led [ 50] and gouerned well, and he fulfilled and kept the Lawes and Statutes that his Predecessors had maintayned since the time of Gueguemotezuma. And as the state of the Lordship of Mexico was brought to great Majestie, and had the greatest part of this New Spaine subiect, acknowledging their seruice, and by the great and rich tributes which they gaue the said Mexican Lordship, came to much renowme and mightinesse. And he like a mightie and great minded Prince, gaue great things and preferments to his seruants, and he was temperate of condition and mercifull, where∣by his seruants loued him exceedingly, and yeelded him great reuerence. And likewise hee had many wiues, and children by them, because it was a thing adioyned to the Lordship, and a point of great estate. He was of a merrie condition, whereby his seruants did feast him continually in his life time with great and diuers kindes of feasts, and musick, and songs, and instruments, as [ 60] well in the night as in the day: for in his place the Musicians and Singers neuer ceased with ma∣ny Instruments of musicke. The course of his life in that Signiorie was sixteene yeeres, at the end whereof he dyed and passed out of this present life.

[illustration]

A

[illustration]

B

[illustration]

C

A sixteene yeeres. B A∣huizozin. C conquered by armes the townes following, Tziccoac, Tlappan, Molan∣co, Amaxtlan, Zapotlan, Xaltepec, Chiapan, Totote∣pec, Xochtlan, Xolochiuhylan, [ 10] Cozaquan••tenanco, Coço∣huipilecan, Coy••acac, Aca∣tepec, Huexolotlan, Acapul∣co, Xiu••huacan, Apancale∣can, Tecpatepec, Tepechiap∣co, Xicochimalco, Xiuhtecza∣catlan, Tequantepec, Coyo∣lapan, Yztactlalocan, Teo∣cuitlatlan, Huehaetlan, Quanhxayacatitlan, Yzhu∣atlan, [ 20] Comitlan, Nan••zin∣tlan, Huipilan, Cahualan, Ystatlan, Huiztlan, Xolot∣lan, Quanhnacaztlan▪ Ma∣catlan, Ayanhtochiuitlatla, Quanhtlan, Cu••calcuitlapi∣la, Mapachtep••c, Quauhpi∣lolan, Tlaco••••pec, Mizqui∣tlan. [ 30]

IN the yeere 1502. after the end and death of Ahuiçoçin, succeeded in the Lordship of Mexi∣co,* 6.524 Motezuma. Mexico was now growne into great Majestie, Renowme, and Authori∣tie: and he by his grauitie and seueritie enlarged exceedingly the State and Dominion of Mexi∣co, yea a great deale more then his Predecessors. Motexzeuma was the sonne of Axayaçaçi, which had beene Lord of Mexico, and before hee came to the said Lordship hee had the deserts of a worthy Captaine and a valiant man in warres, whereby hee had the title of Tlacatecatl, [ 40] and so hee succeeded in the Lordship of Mexico, as is before rehearsed, and being in the said Lordship he did greatly increase the Mexican Empire, bearing the rule ouer all the Townes in this New Spaine,* 6.525 insomuch that they gaue and payed him great tributes of much riches and val••e: He was feared very much of all his seruants, and likewise of his Captaines and Principals, insomuch that not one when they had any businesse with him, for the great reuerence they had him i••,* 6.526 durst for feare looke him in the face, but that they held downe their eyes and their head low and enclined to the ground, and many other extraordinarie respects and ceremonies they did vnto him for the Maiestie he represented vnto them, not mentioned here for auoyding of te∣diousnesse. After M••t••zuma had succeeded in the said Lordship, hee conquered foure and fortie Townes hereafter named;* 6.527 and hee subdued them vnder his Lordship and Empire, and in their [ 50] acknowledging of seruitude all the continuance of his life, they payed him many and great tri∣butes, as hereafter by their pictures and declarations is made manifest.

* 6.528Moteçuma was by nature wise, and an Astrologer, and a Philosopher, subtile and skilled ge∣nerally in all artes, aswell of warres as all other matters temporall. And for his grauitie and estate he had of his Lordship the beginning of an Empire, according as his seruants did reuerence him with great honor and power, that in comparison of him, not one of his predecessors came to halfe so much estate and Majestie.

* 6.529The Statutes and Lawes of his Predecessors, since the time of Gueguemoteçuma vntill his time, he commanded to bee kept and wholly fulfilled with great zeale. And because hee was a man so wise, by his good nature he ordayned and made other Statutes and Lawes which he thought de∣fectiue [ 60] for the execution of the former, not abrogating any, all which were for the welfare and good gouernment of his Commonwealth and Subjects. Hee was inclined to keepe many houses and women,* 6.530 which were daughters of the Lords his Subjects and Confederates; and by them he had many children; and to haue so many wiues was for to set forth his Majestie the more, for they hold it for a point of great estate. Among which the daugh••ers of the Lords of great au∣thoritie

he held for lawfull wiues, according to their rights and ceremonies, and them hee kept within his Palaces and dwelling houses; and the children that came of them were had in repu∣tation as more lawfull children then the others which hee had by the other women.* 6.531 It were a large historie to tell the order he had in keeping of them, and conuersation with them. And be∣cause this present historie is but briefe, it is left vnrehearsed.

The quantitie, value, and number of the tributes and kindes of things that his subjects did pay for tribute vnto him, shall be seene and vnderstood hereafter, as by the pictures and declarations is signified. And he made a straight order that the tributes which they payed him, should be ful∣filled according as they were leuied by him; for the fulfilling whereof he had in all his subject-townes his Calpixques and Factors, which were as Gouernors, that ruled, commanded, and go∣uerned [ 10] them; and hee was so much feared that none durst disobey nor transgresse his will and commandement, but that they were kept and wholly fulfilled, because he punished and corrected the rebels without remission.

And in the sixteenth yeere of the reigne of Motezuma, the Mexicans had knowledge of certaine Spaniards, which were discouerers of this New Spaine, that at the end of twelue moneths there should come a fleet of Spaniard•• to ouercome and conquer this Country; and the Mexicans kept account thereof, and they found it to bee true, for at the end of the said twelue moneths was the arriuall of the said fleet at a Hauen of this New Spaine, in the which fleet came Don Ferdinando Cortes, Marques del Valle, which was the seuenteenth yeere of the reign of Motezuma; and in the eighteenth yeere he made an end of the continuance of his Lordship [ 20] and Raigne: in the which yeere he dyed and departed this present life. At the time when Mo∣tezuma came to his gouernment, he was fiue and thirtie yeeres old little more or lesse,* 6.532 so that at his decease he was three and fiftie yeeres of age. And straightway in the yeere after his death, this Citie of Mexico, and other Townes adjoyning, were ouercome and pacified by the said Marques del Valle, and his Confederates. And so this New Spaine was conquered and pacified.

A The number of 19. yeeres (18. yeeres of his raigne, and that other which followed in his Successor, wherin Mexico was [ 30] conquered, as you may see in the next chapter) B the fourth yeere of his raigne in which hee began his conquest. C Mote∣zuma. D the instruments of warre by which hee conquered Ach••otlan, Zozolan, Nochiz∣tlan, Tecutepec, Zulan, Tlaniz∣tlan, Huilotepec, Yepatepoc, Yztactlalocan, Chich••••ualtata∣cala, [ 40] Tecaxic, Tlachinolticpac, Xoconochco, Zi••acantlan, Hu∣iztlan, Piaztlan, Molanco, Zaquantepec, Piptyoltepec, Hu∣cyapan, Tecpatlan, Amatlan, Caltepec, Pantepec, Teoazinco, Tecozauhtla, Teochiapan, Za∣catepec, Tlachquiyanhco, Ma∣linaltep••c, Quimichtepec, Yz∣quintepec, Zenzontepec, Quet∣zaltepec, [ 50] Cuezcomayxtlahua∣can, Huexolotlan, Xalapan, Xaltianhnizco, Yoloxonecuila, Atepec, Mictlan, Yztitlan, Tliltepec, Comalt••pec.

[illustration]

A

[illustration]

B

[illustration]

C

[illustration]

D

These townes were gouer∣ned by the Casiques & Prin∣cipals of Mexico, appointed by the Lords of Mexico, for the good defence and go∣uernment [ 60] of the naturall people, and for the securitie of the Townes, that they should not rebell, as also for the charge they had to gather, and command to be gathered the Rents and Tributes, that they were bound to giue and pay to the Dominion of Mexico.

Citlal••epec, Quanhtochco, Mixcoatl, Tlacatectli a Gouernour, Zo••pan••••, X••ltocan, Tlacatectli a

Gouernour, Acalhuacon, Tlacochtectli a Gouernour, Huaxac, Yzteyocan, Coatitlan, Huixachtitlan, Tlacatectl•• a Gouernour, Tlacochtectli a Gouernour, Zozolan, Poetepec, Coatlayancham, Acolnahu∣as, Puputlan, Yztacolco, Chalcoatenco, Tlacochtectly a Gouernour, Tlacatecatl a Gouernour, Oz∣toma, Atzacan, Atlan, Omequuh, Tezcacoacatl a Gouernour, Tlilancalqui a Gouernour, Xoco∣nochco, Tecapotitlan.

§. II. The second part of this Booke contayning the particular Tributes which euery Towne subdued paid vnto the Lords of Mexico.

[ 10]

HEre follow pictured and intituled the kinds of things, that they of Tlatilulco (which at this day is called by the Spaniards, Saint Iames) did pay in tribute to the Lords of Mexico, and the said tribute summed here, is that which followeth.

They were charged for tribute, alwayes to repaire the Church called Huiznahuac. Item, fortie great Baskets (of the bignesse of halfe a Bushell) of Cacao ground, with the Meale of Maiz (which they called Chianpinoli) and euery Basket had sixteene hundred Almonds of Ca∣cao. Item, other fortie Baskets of Chianpinoli. Item, eight hundred burthens of great Mantels. Item, eightie pieces of Armour, of slight Feathers, and as many Targets of the same Feathers, of the deuices & colours as they are pictured. All the which tribute, except the said armes and tar∣gets they gaue euery 24. dayes, and the said armes and targets they gaue for tribute but once in the whole yeere. The said tribute had his beginning since the time of Qua••htlatoa and Moqui∣huix, [ 20] which were Lords of Tlatilulco. The Lords of Mexico, which first enioyned to those of Tlatilulco, to pay tribute, and to acknowledge their subiection, were Yzcoatçi and Axiacaçi.

[illustration]

[ 30]

[ 40] A the Temple of Huizna∣huac. B 20. baskets of Cacao meale (the Eare and Meale figured) C 20. more of the [ 50] same. C 20. D 20. E 20. baskets of Chiaupinoli. F 40. peeces of Armes of this deuice. G 40. of this deuice (like the former, but that is white with blacke streakes, this yellow) H I are each 400. burthens (the ••are signed 400.) of Man∣tles. K These foure like vnto flowres doe signifie foure dayes, [ 60] euery flowre 20. dayes, as they of Tlatilulco did tribute the things pictured and inti∣tuled by taxation of the Lords of Mexico. I. 40, Targets of this deuice (to expresse the difference of

colours in each particular were too tedious.) N Tlatilulco. The names of Quauhtlatoa and Moqui∣huix Lords of Tlatilulco are added, because in their times it began; as also of Tenuxtitlan, Izcoaci and Apayacan to intimate that these two Lords of Mexico or Tenuxtitlan subdued them. The Pictures of them (as of many Townes before) were omitted: being but such descriptions of men and Townes as you haue seene alreadie.

THe Townes pictured in the two Pieces following, and summed heere be twentie three Townes as appeareth by their Titles, and they had a chiefe Gouernour appointed by the Lords of Mexico, called Petlacalcatl, although neuerthelesse, euery Towne had his Calpixque, [ 10] which is at it were a Steward or Bayliffe, whose charge was to gather the Rents & tributes that the said Townes did tribute to the Dominion of Mexico, and all the said Stewards came to the said Petlacalcatl as their Gouernor, and the things and kinds that the said townes did tribute, are these which follow, 2400. burthens of great Mantels of twisted Yarne. Eight hundred burthens of little Mantles, rich attyre, of the colours as they are pictured. Foure hundred burthens of Maxtlac, which serued for little clothes. Foure hundred burthens of Huipiles and Nagnas, all the which they gaue for tribute euery sixe moneths.

Item, They gaue fiue pieces of Armour, of rich Feathers, and as many Targets of the colours and deuices as they are pictured.

Item, They did tribute seuentie pieces of Armour of Feathers of small account, and as [ 20] many Targets of the colours and deuices as they are pictured.

Item, They tributed one Troxes of Frisoles, and another Troxe of Chian, and another Troxe of Mayz, and another of Gu••utli, which is the seed of Bletlos. All the which things of the said Armour and Targets, and Troxes of Frisoles, and the other seeds the said Townes did pay for tribute once euery yeere.

[illustration]

[ 30] [ 40] [ 50] [ 60]

Petlacalcatl a Gouernour (the pictures of men and townes are heere and in the following omitted, being no other then as you haue alreadie seene) The townes are Xaxalpan, Yopico, Tepetlacalco, Tecoloa∣pan, Tepochpan, Tequemecan, Huiçilo Puchco, Colhuaçinco, Cozotlan, Tepepulan, Olac, Acapan, Cuitlahuac, Tezcacoa, Mezquis, Aochpanco, Tzapotitlan, Xico, Toyac, Tecalco, Tlacoxiuloco, Nex∣titlan.

A 400. burthens of Maxtlac of this worke, which be little clothes. B 400. burthens of Naguas, and Huipiles of this worke. C 400. burthens of great Mantels. D 400. burthens of great Man∣tels. E 400. burthens of great Mantels. F 400. burthens of little Mantels, of this worke each diuision of seuerall colours. Red, Blue, Yellow, Greene. G 400. burthens of little Mantels of this worke. H 400. burthens of great Mantels. I 400. burthens of great Mantels. K 400. burthens [ 10] of great Mantels. L A piece of Armour of this deuice of rich Feathers yeerely. M A Target of rich Feathers of this deuice. N A piece of Armour of this deuice of rich Feathers yeerely. O A Target of rich Fea••hers of this deuice. P A piece of Armour of rich Feathers of this deuice yeere∣ly. Q A Target of rich Feathers of this deuice. R A piece of Armour of rich Feathers, of this deuice yeerely. S A Target of rich Feathers of this deuice.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40]

[ 50] A A piece of Armour of rich feathers of this deuice yeerely. B A Target of rich feathers of this deuice. C 20. pieces of Armour of this deuice yeerely they were of red feathers. D 20. Targets of feathers of this deuice. E 20. pieces of Armour of feathers of this deuice yeerely. F 20. Targets of feathers. G 20. pieces of Armour of this deuice, blue, of light feathers yeerely. H 20. Targets of [ 60] feathers of this deuice. I A Troxe of Frisoles and Chiau, one of the one kind and, and another of the other kind. K A Tro••e of Maiz and another of Guautli, which is seed of Bletl••••.

THese Townes pictured and named, ensuing and summed heere, are sixe and twentie townes, wherein from the time of their conquests by the Lords of Mexico, they had set Calpixques, as it were Bayliffes in euery of them, and in the principall Towne a Gouernour bare rule aboue all the rest, because he should mayntaine them in peace and iustice, and make them performe their tributes, and that they should not rebell. The tributes that all the said townes hereafter con∣tayned, did pay together, are these which follow.

Two thousand burthens of great Mantels twisted. Item, 1200. burthens of Canahuac, which be rich Mantels, wherewith the Lords and Casiques were clothed of the colours as they are pic∣tured. Item, 400. burthens of Maxtlactl, which be little clothes. Item, 400. burthens of Hui••∣piles and Naguas, all the which they paid for tribute twice a yeere. Item, they gaue more tri∣bute [ 10] three pieces of Armour garnished with rich feathers, and as many Targets of the colours and deuices as they are pictured, the which they gaue in the space of one yeere. Item, one hundred pieces of Armour garnished with feathers of small value, and as many Targets of the deuices and colours as they are hereafter pictured, the which they tributed once a yeere. Item, foure great Troxes of wood, full, the one of Frisoles, and another of Chian, and another of Maiz, and ano∣ther of Guantli, which is the seed of Blethos. Euery Troxe might contayne foure or fiue thou∣sand Hanegas, the which they tributed once a yeere.

Acolmecalt. Calipixque. Acolhuacan, Huiçi••••••, Tololçinco, Tlachyahnalco, Tepechpa, Aztaque∣meca, Teacalco, Tonanitla, Zenpoalan, Tepetla••z••oc, Achnatepec, Tiçatep, Co••tlan, Yxquenecan, Matixco, Teneazcalapan, Tyzaincan, Tepetlapan, Caliahualco, Tecoyncan, Tlaquilpan, Quauhque∣••ecan, [ 20] Epaçuincan, Ameyalco, Quauhyocan, Ecatepec.

[illustration]

A 400. burthens of Mantels of this co∣lour (red) and worke (edged Blue, Greene, Red, and Yellow) B 400. bundles ••f Man∣tels of this worke (Blacke and White) C Twentie pieces of Armes of rich feathers of this worke. [ 30]

[illustration]

[ 40] A Following two Troxes of Frisoles and Chi••n. B two Troxes, the one of Maiz, the other of Hua••••li (their corne.) The rest are omitted in Picture, beeing resembled as the former, and for the Historie you haue it be∣fore.

[ 50]

THe townes pictured and named, and numbred here are sixteene townes, the which townes did pay for tribute to the Lords of Mexico, the things pictured and intituled. And because they should be well ruled and gouerned, the Lords of Mexico had set Calpixques in euery town, and aboue all them for Gouernour, a principall man of Mexico; the Calpixques also were men of Mexico: which was done by the said Lords for the securitie of the townes, that they should not rebell, and also because they should minister Iustice, and liue in policie. And the said Tri∣butes that the said townes gaue as appeareth by the said Pictures, and summed heere, are those which follow.

[ 60] First, they did tribute twelue hundred burthens of great Mantels of twisted Yarne.

Item, Eight hundred burthens of small white Mantels, of the apparell which they did weare.

Item, Twelue hundred burthens of small white Mantels, richly wrought, which is apparell that the Lords and Casiques did weare.

Item, Foure hundred burthens of Maxilactle, which are small clothes that they weare.

Item, Foure hundred burthens of Huipiles and Naguas, which is apparell for women, all the which they tribute twice a yeere; so that they gaue tribute euery sixe moneths.

Item, They did tribute eight pieces of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with rich fea∣thers of diuers colours as they are pictured, the which they paid for tribute once a yeere.

Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, full of Maiz and Frisoles, and Chian, and Hua••tli, which is the seed of Blethos, euery Troxe might contayne 5000. Hanegas or Bushels, the which they did tribute once a yeere.

Item, Eight Reames of Paper, of the Countrey, which they tributed twice a yeere; so that in all it was euery yeere sixteene thousand sheets of Paper.

Item, In euery tribute 2000. Xicharas, or drinking Cups, which they gaue twice a yeere.

The Townes were Quauhnahuac, Teocalcinco, Chimalco, Huiccilapan, Acatlicpac, Xochitepec, [ 10] Miacatla, Molotla, Coatlan, Xiuhtepec, Xoxoutla, Amacoztitlan, Yztlan, Ocpayucan, Yztepec, Atlicholoayan.

[illustration]

A Eight thou∣sand sheetes of Pa∣per, of the Coun∣trey. B Foure hun∣dred Xicaras, or Cup-dishes of this [ 20] worke. C Foure hundred of this worke. D Foure hundred of this worke. E Foure hundred of this worke. F Foure hundred of his worke. The colours are Yellow and Red. The rest need no presenting in Picture, beeing but as formerly is seene. [ 30]

THe townes following, and numbred here are six and twentie, which did pay tribute of the things pictured and entituled to the Lords of Mexico, and likewise there was resident a Go∣uernour, and Mexican Calipixque, as in the other townes afore mentioned, which were ordained by the Lords of Mexico. And the tributes that they payed, appearing by the Pictures are these which follow. First, they did tribute 400. burthens of Maxilactle, which are little clothes. Item, 400. burthens of Naguas & Huipiles, apparell for women. Item, 2400. burthens of great Mantles, of twisted yarne. Item, 800. burthens of rich Mantles, that the Lords and Principals of Mexico were clothed with, of the colours as they are pictured. Item, 2000. Xicaras varnished, of the colours as they be pictured. Item, 8000. Reames of Paper of the Countrey, all the which they [ 40] gaue in euery tribute, which was euery six moneths. Item, They tributed 40. pieces of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with slight feathers died of diuers colours, as appeareth by the Pictures. Item, Six pieces of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with rich feathers of the deuices and colours as they be pictured. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood like those aforesaid, ful of Maiz and Frisoles, and Chian, and Guautli, all the which they tributed once a yeere.

The townes names are Huaxtepec, Xoxhimilcaçinco, Quauhtlan, Achuchuecp••n, Anenequilco, O∣li••tepec, Quauhnitlyxco, Zoupanco, Hu••zilapan, Tlaltitcapan, Coacalco, Yzamatitla Tepoztlan, Yanhte∣pec, Yacappichtla, Tlayacapan, Xaloztoc, Tecpazino, Nepopoalco, Atlatlanca, T••tolapan, Amilzinco, Atlhuelic.

[illustration]

ABCDE are each of them [ 50] foure hundred Xi∣caras or Cup-dishes.

[illustration]

F Eight thousand sheets of Paper, the [ 60] Pictures of the rest are omitted.

THe Townes pictured and named here are seuen, which paid tribute to the Lords of Mexico, as in the other parts aforesaid haue beene mentioned, and the things they tributed are these that follow.

First, Foure hundred burdens of Mantels of rich workes; and foure hundred burdens of plaine Mantels, of the color as they be pictured. Item, Foure thousand Petates, which are Mats, and other foure hundred backes with their seates made of Segs and other Herbs, the which they did tribute euery six moneths. Item, Two peeces of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with rich Feathers of the deuices and colours as they be pictured. Item, Fortie peeces of Armour, and as many Targets, garnished with sleight Feathers. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood of the big∣nesse of those aforesaid, full of Maiz, Frisoles, Chian and Guautly, which they gaue for tribute [ 10] once a yeare.

The Townes are Quauhtitlan, Tehuiloyocan, Ahuexoyocan, Xalapan, Tepoxaco, C••••••c••mo hua∣can, Xiloçinco.

[illustration]

A Foure hun∣dred burthens of Mantles of this worke (coloured [ 20] with Red, Yellow, &c.) B Foure hundred burthens of Mantles of this worke (Blacke and White.) C Foure hundred burthens of this worke (all White.) D Foure thousand Mats & [ 30] foure thousand Backes: the num∣ber is intimated by the figures following, somewhat like eares of Corne, each of which signifieth foure hundred.

THe Townes pictured and named are tenne, which did paie tribute to the Lords of Mexico, as afore said, and the things that they did tribute doe follow.

First, eight hundred burdens of rich Mantles, and wrought as ap∣peareth

[illustration]

by the titles and pictures. Item, Foure hundred burdens [ 40] of white Mantles, with their border of blacke and white. Item, Eight hundred burdens of white Mantles. Item, Foure hundred burdens of Naguas and H••ipiles. Item, Foure hundred great Pots of thicke Honie of Maques; all the which they tributed euery sixe moneths. Item, They did tribute two peeces of Armour, garnished with rich Feathers, and as many Targets of rich Feathers, of the de∣uices as they be pictured and intituled. Item, Fortie peeces of Ar∣mour, garnished with slight Feathers, and as many Targets, of the deuices as they are pictured. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, of the bignesse of those that are signified in the parts before, the one of [ 50] Maiz, and the other of Frisoles, another of Chian, and another of Guantli seede of Bledos. All the which they tributed once a yeare. The Townes are Axocopan, Atenco, Tetepanco, X••chichiuca, Temo∣huayan, Tezcatepec, Myzquian••••ala, Yz••••yq••ilpan, Tla••••••••lilpan, T••cpatepec.

A Foure hundred Pots of thicke Honie of Magues: this is for the noue•••• figure pictured, the rest not, being as the former in their forme.

THe number of the Townes ensuing, a•••• seuen, and they did tribute to the Lords of Mexi∣co, [ 60] after the order declared in the parts aforesaid; and the things which they did tribute are those which follow.

First, Foure hundred burdens of Mantels of rich workes▪ which was apparell that the Lords and Caciques did put on. Item, Foure hundred burdens of white Mantels, with their borders of

white and black. Item, Eight hundred burdens of great Mantels of twisted Yarne. Item, Foure hundred burdens of Chalk; all the which they did tribute euery six moneths. Item, they did tribute two pee∣ces of Armour garnished with rich Feathers, and two Targets, as ap∣peareth by the deuices and pictures. Item, Fortie peeces of Armor, and as many Targets garnished with slight Feathers, as appeareth by the pictures, deuices and titles. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, of the bignesse of those before, the one full of Maiz, another of Frisoles, another of Clian, and another of Guantli; all of the which they did tribute once a yeare. The Townes are Atotonilco, Guapal∣calco, [ 10] Quecalmacan, Acocolco, Tehuchuec, Otlazpan, Xalac.

[illustration]

A 400. burthens of Chalke or Lime: the marke on the top signifieth 400. the figure is the forme of their burthen. Other figures neede not be presented.

THe number of the Townes following, are nine, according as they be pictured and named. And they paid tribute as fol∣loweth.

First, foure hundred burdens of Mantels of rich workes, which [ 20] the Lords and Casiques did put on. Item, Foure hundred burdens of white Mantels, with their edge of white and blacke. Item, eight hundred burdens of white Mantels of Enequen. Item, Foure hun∣dred Pots of thicke Honie of Maguez. All the which they tribu∣ted euery six moneths. Item, Two peeces of Armour, and as many Targets, garnished with rich Feathers, of the colours and deuises as they be pictured & intituled. Item, threescore peeces of Armor, and as many Targets, garnished with slight Feathers, of the colours and deuises as they be entituled and pictured. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, of the bignesse aforesaid full, the one of Mays, and another [ 30] of Frisoles, another of Chian, and another of Guautly. All the which they tributed once a yeare. The Townes are Hu••ypuchtla, Xalac, Tequix••••iac, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Xical••••••can, X••m••yocan, Acayocan, Tezcatepetonco, Atocpan.

[illustration]

A 400. Pots of Honie of Maguez, paid euery six moneths.

THe number of the Townes follow∣ing be six: and they paid tribute as followeth.

First, Eight hundred burdens of rich [ 40] Mantels apparel that the Lords of Mexi∣co did cloath themselues with, as appea∣reth in the said side by the pictures and titles. Item, One thousand six hundred burdens of white Mantels of Enequen; all the which they did tribute to the Lords of Mexico euery six moneths. I∣tem, Foure peeces of Armour, and as ma∣ny Targets, garnished with rich Feathers of the colours and deuises as they are pi∣ctured [ 50] and intituled. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, of the bignesse of the o∣ther, full of Maiz, Frisoles, Chian, and Guautly. All the which they did tribute once a yeare. The Townes are Atoio∣nilco, Acaxochitla, Xuachquecaloyan, Hue∣yapan, Itzihuinquilocan, Tulancingo.

[illustration]

A Foure hundred burthens of rich Man∣tles of this worke. B Foure hundred bur∣thens of rich Mantels of this worke. C Two troxes, one of Mays, the other of Chian. [ 60] D Two troxes, the one of Frisoles, the other of Guantli Other pictures are omitted, be∣ing like the former.

THe number of the Townes are seuen: and they paid tribute as followeth. First, 400. bur∣thens of very rich Naguas and Huipiles, which is apparell for women. Item, 400. burthens of rich Mantels, Lords apparell. Item, 400. burthens of Naguas wrought. Item, 800. burthens of rich Mantels. Item, 400. burthens of rich small Mantels. Item, 400. burthens of Mantels drawne through the middle with red: all the which they tributed euery sixe moneths.

Item, A liuing Eagle, two, three, or more, according as they could finde them. Item, two pie∣ces of Armour and two Targets, garnished with rich feathers, of the deuice and colour as they are pictured. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, full of Maiz, Frisoles, Chian, and Guautli: all the [ 10] which they tributed once a yeere. The townes names are Xilotepec, Tlachco, Tzayanalquilpa, My∣chnaloyan, Tepetitlan, Acaxochytla, Tecocauhtlan.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] A 400. burthens of very rich Naguas and Huipiles. B 400. burthens of rich Mantels of this worke. C 400. burthens of Naguas of this worke. D 400. burthens of rich Mantels of this worke. E 400. burthens of rich Mantels of this worke. F A liue Eagle that they brought in euery tribute, sometimes [ 40] three, other times foure, and other times more or lesse.

THe number of the Townes following are thirteene. And they payed tribute as fol∣loweth.

First, 800. burthens of rich small Mantles of this worke, as they be pictured. Item, 800. burthens of small, of E••••quen: all the which they did tribute euery sixe moneths.

Item, A piece of Armour and a Target garnished with rich feathers. Item, Fortie pieces of [ 50] Armour and as many Targets garnished with slight feathers: the which Armour they tributed once a yeere.

Item, Foure great Troxes of wood of the bignesse aforesaid, full of Maiz, Frisoles, Chian, and Guautly, which likewise they tributed once a yeere.

Item, 1200. burthens of wood, which they tributed euery foure dayes. Item, 1200. great Beames of Timber, which they tributed euery foure dayes. Item, 2400. great Boards or Planks, which they tributed euery foure dayes. The Townes are, Qua••••••ocan, Tecpa, Chapolnoloyan, Tlalatlauco, Ac••xochic, Ameyalco, Ocotepec, Huizquilocan, Coatepec, Quauhpanoayan, Tlalachco, Chichciquauhtla, Huitziçilapan.

[ 60]

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20] A 400. burthens of wood. A 400. burthens of wood. A 400. burthens of wood. B 400. great beames▪ or pieces of timber B 400. great beames. B 400. great beames. C 400. great plankes of timber: C 400. great plankes of timber. C 400. great boards of timber. D 400. quarters of timber. D 400. quarters of timber. D 400. quarters of timber.

THe number of the townes pictured are twelue. And they tributed as followeth. First, 400. burthens of Cotton-wooll, Mantles white with an edge of Greene, Yellow, Red, and Oliue colour. Item, 400. burthens of Mantles of Enequen, wrought and spotted, with Red, White and Blacke. Item, 1200. burthens of white Mantles of Enequen: all the which they tri∣bu••ed [ 30] euery six moneths. Item, two pieces of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with rich feathers of the colours and deuices as they are pictured. Item, twentie pieces of Armour, with as many Targets, garnished with slight feathers of the colours and deuices as they are pictured. Item, six great Troxes of wood of the bignesse aforesaid, full of Frisoles, Maiz, Chian, and Guautly: All the which they tributed once a yeere.

The townes names are Tuluca, Calixtlahuacan, Xicaltepec, Tepetl••uiacan, Mytepec, Capulteo∣pan, Metepec, Cacalomaca, Calymayan, Teoteuanco, Zepemaxalco, Zoqui••zinco.

[ 40]

[illustration]

A 400. burthens of Cot∣ton-wooll-mantles of this worke. B 400. burthens of Mantles of Enequen, of this worke.

[ 50]

[illustration]

C Two Troxes, the one of Maiz, and the other of Chian. D Two Troxes of Frisoles & Guautly. E Two Troxes, the one of Maiz, and the other of Chian. [ 60]

THe number of the townes intituled and pictured, are sixe. And they paid tribute as fol∣loweth.

First, they did tribute

[illustration]

800. burthens of rich Mantels of Enequen, of the workes as they be pi∣ctured A.

Item, 400. burthens of Cotton-wooll Mantles [ 10] rich, of the worke as they be pictured. B.

Item, 400. rich Man∣tles of Enequen, of this worke pictured. C.

Item, 2000. Loaues of fine white Salt refined & made in long moulds, as letter D each of which signifie 400. (as the Eare [ 20] aboue declares.) It was spent only for the Lords of Mexico, all the which they tributed euery sixe moneths.

Item, a piece of Armor with a Target of rich fea∣thers, of the colours and deuices as they be pictu∣red. Item, Twentie pie∣ces [ 30] of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with slight feathers of the deuices and colours as they are pictured. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, of the bign••sse of those before full of Maiz, Frisoles, Chian, and Guautly. All the which they tributed once a yeere.

The Townes, Ocuilan, Tenantinco, Tequaloyan, Tenatinho, Coatepec, Zincozcar.

[ 40]

THe number of the

[illustration]

townes pictured are three. And they paid tri∣bute as followeth. First, 1200. burthens of great white Mantles of Ene∣quen, ABC.

Item, 400. burthens of [ 50] wrought Mantles of Ene∣quen, all the which they tributed euery sixe mo∣neths.

Item, They tributed once a yeere eight great Troxes of wood, of the bignesse aforesaid, two of Maiz, two of Frisoles, two of Chian, and two of Guautly. The townes were Maly∣nalco, Zonpahnacan, Xocotitlan.

[ 60]

THe number of the Townes following are ten, of a hot Countrey, and they paid tribute as followeth.

First, 400. burthens of rich Mantles made of Cotton-wooll, of the worke as they be pictu∣red. Item, 400. burthens of Naguas and Huipiles. Item, 1200. burthens of white Mantles of smooth and safe Enequen. All the which they did tribute euery six moneths.

Item, 200. pots of Bees Honey. Item, 1200. Xicaras varnished Yellow. Item, 400. Baskets of white Copale for perfumes. Item, 8000. lumpes of vnrefined Copale, wrapt in the leaues of a Palme tree. All the which they tributed euery 400. dayes. Item, Two pieces of Armour, and as many Targets garnished with rich feathers, of the deuice and colour as they are pictured. Item, Two great Troxes of wood of the bignesse of those aforesaid, full, the one of Maiz, and the other of Chian. All the which they doe tribute once a yeere.

The Townes are Tlachco, Acamylixtlahuacan, Chontalcoatlan, Teticpac, Nochtepec, Teotlizto∣can, Tlamacazapan, Tepexahnalco, Tzicapuçalco, Tetenanco.

[illustration]

A 200. pots of Honey, the marke ouer each pot signifieth the number of [ 10] twentie. [ 20]

[illustration]

B 400. Baskets of Co∣pall refined. [ 30]

[illustration]

C 8000. lumps of Copall vnrefined, wrapped in the leaues of a Date Tree: the vpper Figure signifieth the Copall, the later (like a Purse with three Tassells or Targets annexed) is the Character of eight thou∣sand, as before in the sheets [ 40] of Paper is seene.

THe number of the Townes of the hot Countrey pictured, are fourteene Townes. And they paid tribute as followeth,

First, 400. burthens of quilted Mantles. Item, 400. burthens of Mantles striped with blacke and white. Item, 400. burthens of rich Mantles. Item, 400. burthens of Naguas and Huipiles. Item, 400. burthens of white Mantles. Item, 1600. burthens of great Mantles. All the which they did tribute euery sixe moneths.

Item, They tributed 100. Hatchets of Copper. Item, 1200. Xicaras of yellow varnish. Item, [ 50] 200. pots of Bees Honey. Item, 400. little baskets of white Copall for Perfumes. Item, 8000. lumps of Copall vnrefined, which was spent likewise for Perfumes. All the which they tributed euery foure dayes.

Item, Two pieces of Armour, with their Targets garnished with rich feathers of this deuice, as they be pictured. Item, Twentie pieces of Armour with their Targets, garnished with slight feathers.

Item, Fiue strings of rich Bead-stones, which they call Chalchihuitl. Item, Foure great Tro∣xes of wood, of the bignesse of those before full of Maiz, Frisoles, Chian, and Guautly; all the which they tributed once a yeere.

The Townes names are Tepequacuilco, Chilapan, Ohnapan, Huitzoco, Tlachimalacac, Yoallan, [ 60] Cocolan, Atenanco, Chilacachapan, Telogoapan, Oztoma, Ychcliteopan, Alahuiztlan, Cueçalan.

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20] A The Hatchets, the forme below, the number aboue each signifying 20. B 400. little Baskets of white Copall, C Fiue strings of stones. D 8000. lumps of Copall vnrefined. E 200. Pots of Honey.

THe num∣ber

[illustration]

[ 30] of the Townes of the hot Countreies pictured, and intituled in the next diuision, are twelue. And they paid tri∣bute as follow∣eth.

[ 40]

First, sixteene hundered bur∣thens of great Mantles, listed with Orange-tawnie, as is seene in the let∣ters ABCD each marked 400. Item, 1400 [ 50] burdens of great Mantles of twi∣sted yarne. Item, 400. burthens of Cacao, of brown colour, as in let∣ter E. Item, 400. packes of Cotton-wooll, marked Letter [ 60] F. Item, 400. Conchas, which are red shels of the Sea, (mar∣ked GH. each 400.) after the fashion of Veneras, all the which they tributed euery sixe mo∣neths.

The townes are Cihnatlan, Colima, Panotlan, Nochcoc, Yztapan, Petlatlan, Xihnacan, Apancale∣can, Coçohnipilecan, Coyucac, Zacatulan, Xolochuthyan.

[illustration]

THe number of the Townes, of the hot Countreyes pictured following are 14. and they payed tribute as follow∣eth. First, 400. burthens of Naguas and Huipiles. Item, 400. burthens of Mantles striped with red. Item, 800. burthens of [ 10] great Mantles. Item, 800. Xicaras, which they call Tecomates of the best, wherein they drinke Cacao, all the which they tri∣buted euery sixe moneths. Item, Two pieces of Armour, with their Targets garnished with rich feathers of the deuice and colour as they are pictured.

Item, Twenty Xicaras full of Gold in powder, and euery Xicara might con∣tayne two handfuls, with both hands let∣ter [ 20] D.

Item, tenne Plates of Gold of foure fin∣gers broad, and three quarters of a yard long, and as thicke as Parchment figured heere, ABC, all the which they tributed once a yeere.

The townes names Tlapan, Xocatlan, Ychcatepecpan, Amaxac, Ahuacatla, Aco∣cozpan, Yoalan, Ocoapan, Huitzamela, A∣cuitlapan, Malynaltepec, Totomixtlahuacan, [ 30] Tetenanco, Chipetlan.

[illustration]

THe towne named, is called Tlalcocauhtitlan, a hotte towne with the other seuen townes in the first partition, did [ 40] pay tribute as followeth.

First, 400. burthens of great Mantles.

Item, 100. pots of Bees hony.

Item, Twentie pannes of Te∣coçahuitl, which is a yellow var∣nish wherewith they painted themselues (here figured, Letter A) which they tributed euery six moneths. [ 50]

Item, A piece of Armour with a Target garnished with rich fea∣thers, which they tributed once a yeere.

The Townes are, Tlalcocauhtitlan, Tolymany, Quauhtecoma, Ychcatlan, Tepoztitlan, Achnaçi∣çinco, Mitzinco, Cacatla.

[ 60]

THe Townes pictured and Intituled in the second partition, are sixe, and they being of a hot Countrey, tributed as followeth.

First, 400. burthens of great Mantles. Item, Fortie great Belles of Copper. Item, Foure Copper Hatchets: both represented in the Picture, C Bels D Hatchets.

Item, One hundred Pots of Bees Honie: all the which they tributed euery six moneths. I∣tem, A peece of Armour with a Target of rich Feathers. Item, A little Panne full of small Turkess Stones: figured letter B. All the which they tributed once a yeare.* 6.533

The Townes names are Quianhte••pan, Olynalan, Quanhtecomatla, Qualac, Ychcatla, Xala.

THe Townes pictured and intituled in the third partition, are six Townes of the hot Coun∣trie; and they did tribute as followeth.

[ 10] First, 400. burdens of great Mantels. Item, 100. Pots of Bees Honie, which they tribu∣ted euery sixe moneths. Item, A peece of Armour with his Target garnished with rich Fea∣thers, of the deuice and colour as it is pictured. Item, Fortie Plates of Gold, of the bignesse of a Cake, and a finger thicke, figured letter E.* 6.534 Each Cake with his vane intimating twen∣ty. Item, Tenne halfe faces of rich blew Turkey Stones.* 6.535

Item, A great Trusse full of the said Turkey Stones; figured letter F. All the which they tribute•• once a yeare.

[ 20]

[illustration]

[ 30]

The sixe Townes are Yoaltepec, Xhnacalco, Tzi••acaapan, Patlanalan, Yxicayan, Ychçaa∣toyac.

THe number of the Townes following are six, and they paid tribute as followeth. First, 800. burdens of great Mantels, which they tributed euery six moneths. Item, they tribu∣ted two peeces of Armour with their Targets garnished with rich Feathers of the colours as [ 40] they are pictured. Item, Eight great Troxes, of the bignesse of those before, full of Maiz, Fri∣zoles, Chian, and Guautly. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood, of the said bignesse, full of Maiz, All the which they tributed once a yeare. The Townes are Chalco, Tecmilco, Tepuztlan, Xocoyol∣tepec, Malynaltepec, Quauxumulco.

THe number of the Townes of the hot Countries pictured in the next partition are two and twenty: and in euery Towne there was placed Mexican calpixques, and the same order, rule, and gouernment as in the other Townes and Prouinces heretofore declared. And so is it to [ 50] be vnderstood was the state and gouernment of all the other Townes hereafter named, though for breuities sake it is not rehearsed any more. And the things which these Townes did pay for tribute to the Lords of Mexico, are these following.

First, They tributed 4000. burdens of Lime. Item, 4000. burdens of Massie Cane Staues, which they called Otlatl. Item, 8000. burdens of Canes, whereof the Mexicans made Darts for the wars. Item, 800. Deere Skins. Item, 8000. burdens of Acayatl, which are Perfumes which the Indians vse for the mouth. Item, 200. Cacaxtles, which are frames like to Pannels, wherewith the Indians carry burdens on their backes: all the which they tributed euery foure dayes. Item, Foure great Troxes of wood of the measures and greatnesse of those before declared, full, two with Maiz and two with Frisoles, the which they tributed once a yeare.

[ 60] The Townes names are Tepeacan, Quechulac, Tecamachalco, Acatzinco, Tecolco, Yccohinanco, Quauhtinchan, Chictlan, Quatlatlanhcan, Tepixic, Ytzucan, Quauhquechulan, Teonochtitlan, Huechuetlan, Tetenanco, Coat-Teopantlan, zinco, Xpatlan, Nacochtlan, Chiltecpintlan, Oztotla∣pechco, Atczcah••acan.

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20] [ 30] [ 40] A A Target and Club which they vsed for a Sword, garnished with Rasors points. B 4000. burthens of Lime. C 800. Deere skinnes. D 4000. burthens of Cane Staues. E 8000. burthens of Canes to make Darts. F 8000. burthens of Acayetl. G 200. Cacaxtles.

THe number of the Townes of the warme and temperate Countries pictured and intituled in the next figures are eleuen: and that which they did tribute followeth.

First, 400. burdens of quilted Mantels of rich worke. Item, 400. burdens of Mantels striped [ 50] red and white. Item, 400. bu••dens of Mantels striped red and blacke.

Item, 400. burdens of Maxtlaetl, which serued the Indians for little cloathes, or girdles.

Item, 400. burdens of Guipiles, and Naguas. All the which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico euery six moneths.

Item, They tributed two pieces of Armour, and as many Targets, garnished with rich Fea∣thers, of the colours and deuises as they are pictured; letter A.

Item, Two strings of the Bead-stones of Chalchihnitl; rich Stones, greene: letter B. Item, 800. hands full of large and rich greene Feathers, which they call Quecaly, letter D. Item, A peece of Tlalpilony of rich Feathers, which serued for a royall Banner, of the fashion pictured: letter F. [ 60]

Item, Fortie sacks of Graine, which they call the Graine of Cochinilla: Letter C. Item, Twenty Xicaras of Gold in dust,* 6.536 of the finest: letter E. All the which they tributed once a yeare.

[illustration]

The Townes names are Coayx tlahuacan, Texo∣pan, Tamaçola∣dan, Zancuitlan, Tepuzcululan, Nochiztlan, Xal∣tepec, Tamaçolan Mictlan, Coax∣omalo, [ 10] Cuicatla. [ 20] [ 30]

THe number of the Townes of warme and temperate Countries, pictured and entituled in the next diuision, are eleuen Townes: And they tributed as followeth.

First, They did tribute 400. burthen of quilted Mantels of rich worke. Item, 800. burthens of great Mantels, the which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico euery six moneths. Item

[illustration]

They tributed foure great Troxes of [ 40] wood, of the bignesse of those aforesaid, full, two of them with Maiz, another with Frisoles, and another with Chian. Item, Twenty plates of fine Gold,* 6.537 of the bignesse of a middle dish, and an inch thicke: letter A. Item, Twenty sackes of Graine of Cochinilla: letter B.* 6.538 All the which they did tribute once a yeare. The Townes are Coyolan, Etlan, Quauxilotitlan, Guauxacac, Ca∣motlan, Teocuitlatlan, Quautzontepec, [ 50] Octlan, Teticpac, Tlalcuechahnayan, Ma∣cuilxochic.

[illustration]

TLachquiarico, Achiotlan, and Capot∣lan,* 6.539 are three Townes in the warme Countries. And the things which they did tribute to the Lords of Mexico, are those that follow. First, 4. burdēs of great Mantels, which they did tribute euery [ 60] six moneths. Item, They tributed a piece of Armor with a Target, garnished with rich Feathers of the colours pictured. Item, Twenty Xicaras full of fine Gold in powder: letttr A. Item,* 6.540 Fiue Sacks of Graine of Cochinilla: letter D. Item,* 6.541 400. hand fuls of rich greene Fea∣thers, which they call Queçaly: letter C al the which they tributed once a yeare.

THe number of the Townes of warme and temperate Countries, pictured and intituled in the next figure, are two and twentie. And the things which they did tribute to the Lords of Mexico, are these that follow.

First, they did tribute 1600. burthens of rich Mantels, apparell which the Lords and Casiques did weare. Item, 800. burthens of Mantels listed with red, white, and greene. Item, 400. bur∣thens of Naguas and Huipiles: all the which they tributed euery sixe moneths. Item, They tri∣buted a piece of Armour with a Target garnished with rich feathers, with this deuice of a Bird and colours as are pictured letter A. Item,* 6.542 a Target of gold, letter B. Item, a deuice for Armour like a wing of rich yellow feathers, letter O. Item, a Diadem of gold of the fashion as is pictu∣red letter D. Item, a border of gold for the head of a hand breadth, and of thicknesse as parch∣ment, letter E. Item, two strings of Beades, and a collar of gold FG. Item, three great rich [ 10] stones of Chalchihnitl HIK.* 6.543 Item, three strings of round beades rich stones of Chalchihnitl. LMN. Item, foure strings of beades of Chalchihnitl, rich stones. Item, twentie Beçotes of cleere Amber garnished with gold,* 6.544 letter T. Item, other twentie Beçotes of Beriles or cristall V. Item, 80. handfuls of greene rich feathers, which they call Queçaly W. Item, foure pieces of greene rich feathers like hands full, garnished with yellow rich feathers PQRS. Item, 8000. hands full of rich Turquesed feathers a. Item, 8000. hands full of rich red feathers b. Item, 8000. hands full of rich greene feathers c. Item, 100. Pots or Cauters of fine liquid Amber d. Item, 200. burthens of Cacao, letter Z. Item, 1600. round lumps like balls of Oly, which is a gumme of trees, and casting the said balls on the ground, they doe leape vp very high, letter X. all the which they tributed once a yeere. The Townes are Tochtepec, Xayaco, Otlahtlan, Coçamaloapan, [ 20] Mixtlan, Michapan, Ay••tzintepec, Michtlan, Teotilan, Oxitlan, Tzynacanoztoc, Tototepec, Chi∣nantlan, Ayoçintepec, Cuezcomatitlan, Puetlan, Teteutlan, Yxmatlatlan, Ayotlan, Toztlan, Tlacotlalpan.

[illustration]

[ 30] [ 40] [ 50] [ 60]

THe number of the Townes of the warme Countries, pictured and intituled in the next par∣tition are eight. And the things which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico, are these that follow.

First, two great strings of Chalchihnitl rich stones. Item, 1400. handfuls of rich feathers blue, red, greene, turkesed, red and greene, as they are pictured in six handfuls, ABCDEF.

Item, Foure whole skinnes of birds of rich turkesed feathers, with murry breasts, of the colours as they are pictured G. Item, other foure whole skinnes of the said birds L. Item, 800. handfuls of rich yellow feathers HM.

Item, 800. hands full of large rich greene feathers, which they call Queçaly IN. Item, Two Beçotes of cleere Amber garnished with gold KO. Item, 200. burthens of Cacao PR.

[ 10] Item, Fortie Tigres skinnes QS. Item, 800. rich Tecomates wherein they drinke Cacao TV. Item, Two great pieces of cleere Amber of the bignesse of a bricke WX. All which they tributed euery sixe moneths.* 6.545

The Townes names are Xoconochco, Oyotlan, Coyoacan, Mapachtepec, Macatlan, Huiz∣tlan, Acapetlatlan, Huehuetlan.

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50]

[illustration]

[ 60]

THe number of the Townes of warme and temperate Countryes in the next picture, are seuen. And the things that they tributed to the Lords of Mexico, are these that follow.

First, 400. burthens of great Mantels, which they tributed euery sixe moneths. Item, Twentie burthens of Cacao.

* 6.546Item, 1600. Packs of Cotton wooll (represented ABCD. each marked foure hundred) all the which they tributed once a yeere. The Townes are Quanhtochco, Teuhçoltzapotlan, To∣totlan, Tuchconco, Ahnilyzapan, Quauhtetelco, Ytzteyocan.

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20]

[illustration]

THe number of the towns of warme & temperate Countries are sixe, in the next figure. And the things which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico, are these [ 30] that follow.

First, 400. burthens of Guipiles & Naguas, which is womens apparell A. I∣tem, 400. burthens of Man∣tels halfe quilted C. Item, 400. burthens of litle Man∣tels, with a white & black edge B. Item, 400. bur∣thens [ 40] of Mantels of foure Bracas euery Mantell, halfe listed with black & white, and halfe after the fashion of netvvorke of blacke and white D. Item, 400. bur∣thens of great white Man∣tels, of foure Bracas euery Mantell. Item, 160. bur∣thens of very rich Mantels wrought, apparell for the [ 50] Lords & Casiques. Item, 1002 burthens of Mantels listed more with white then with blacke: all the which they tr••buted euery sixe moneths. Item, Two ri••h pieces of Armor with their targets garnished with rich feathers, according as they are pictured. Item, A string of Chilchihnitl rich stones K. Item, 400. handfull of rich large greene feathers, which they call Queçaly E. Item, Twentie Beçotes of Be∣riles [ 60] or Cristall shadowed blue, and set in gold F. Item, Twentie Beçotes of cleere Amber gar∣nished with gold G.* 6.547 Item, 200. burthens of Cacao H. Item, a Quezalclalpilons of rich greene feathers of Quezaly, which serued to the Lords of Mexico for a Royall Ensigne, of the making as it is pictured I. All the which they tributed once a yeer••.

The Townes are Cuetlaxtlan, Mictlanquauhtla, Tlapanicytlan, Oxichan, Acoz∣pan, Teoziocan.

THe number of the Townes, contayned, pictured, and intituled in the next diuision, are seuen Townes. And the things which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico, are these that follow.

First, 400. burthens of Mantels listed blacke and white A. Item, 800. burthens of great white Mantels, the which they tributed euery sixe moneths.

[ 10] Item, They tributed once a yeere two pieces of Armour with their Targets, garnished with rich feathers of the deuice and sorts as they are pictured. B Armour. C Shield▪

The Townes are Tlapacoyan, Xolo••ochitlan, Xochiquauhtitlan, Tuchtlan, Coapan, Azi••a∣pan, Acaçacatla.

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40]

[illustration]

THe number of the Townes pictured next are e∣leuen.

[illustration]

And the things which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico, are these that follow.

First, 1600. burthens of Mantels listed blacke and white A. Item, 8000. loaues or lumps of liquid Am∣ber [ 50] for perfumes, which they call Xochiococotl (B is 8000. C the lump of Amber) all which they tribu∣ted euery sixe moneths.

Item, They tributed two pieces of Armour with their Shields, garnished with rich feathers, of the fashion as they are pictured, which they tributed once a yeere.

The Townes are Tlatlauhquitepec, At••nco, Tezui∣tlan, Ayutuchco, Yayanquitlalpa, Xonoctla, Teotlalpan, [ 60] Ytztepec, Yxcoyamec, Yaonahuac, Caltepec.

THe number of the Townes pictured and entituled in the next side are seuen Townes. And the things which they tributed to the Lords of Mexico, are these which follow.

[illustration]

First, 400. burdens of Mantels like nets of black and white, B. Item, 400. burdens of rich Mantel•• wrought red and white, Lords apparell A. Item, 400. burdens of Ma••∣tlactle, which serued for [ 10] small cloathes. Item, 400. burdens of great white Mantels of foure bracas a peece. Item, 800. burdens of Mantels of eight bracas a peece, listed orange taw∣ni•• and white. Item, 400. burdens of great white Mantels, of eight bracas a Mantell. Item, 400. bur∣dens of Mantels listed, [ 20] with greene, yellow, and red, letter C. Item, 400. burdens of Naguas & Gui∣piles. Item, 240. burdens of rich Mantels wrought with red, white & blacke; very curious, wherewith the Lords and Casiques were cloathed, all the which apparell they tri∣buted [ 30] euery six moneths. Item, They tributed two pieces of Armour, with their Targets, garnished with rich Feathers of the fashion as they are pictu∣red. Item, 800. burdens of dry Ax••, or West Indian Pepper. D. Item, 20. sackes of small white Feathers wherewith they trimmed Mantels.* 6.548 E. Item, Two strings of Chalchihmitl rich Stones. Item, One string of Beades of rich Turkey Stones F. Item, Two pieces like Plat∣ters [ 40] decked or garnished with rich Turkey stones.* 6.549 G. All the which they tributed once a yeare. The towns names are Tuchpa, Tlatiçapan, Cichnanteopan, Papantla, Oçelotepec, Miachnaapā, Mictlā.

[illustration]

ATlan and Teçapotitlan take vp next diuision, which they did [ 50] tribute to the Lords of Mexico. First, 800. burdens of rich Mantels wrought red and white, with an edge of green, red, yellow, and blew. A. Item, 400. burdens of Maztlactl. Item, 400. burdens of Maxtlactl. Item, 400. burdens of great white Mantels, of foure bracas a Mantell: all the which they tributed euery six moneths. I∣tem, They tributed once a yeare 1200. packes of Cotten Woll. lett. B. [ 60]

THe Towne of Oxitipan, did tri∣bute

[illustration]

to the Lords of Mexico. First, 2000. burdens of great Mantels of two bracas a Mantell. Item, 800. [ 10] burdens of great Mantels, listed with yellow, blew, red, and greene, of foure bracas a Mantell. All the which ap∣parel they tributed euery six months. Item, They tributed 400. burdens of Axi, which is their Pepper A. I∣tem, A liue Eagle, and sometimes two or three, as they could catch them.* 6.550 B. All the which they tributed once a yeare.

[ 20] [ 30]

CTzicoac, Molanco,

[illustration]

Cozcatecutlan, Yeho∣atlan and Xocogocan, paid these tributes to the Lords of Mexico. First, 400. burdens of white Mantels with their edge of red, blew, greene and yellow. Item, 400. burdens of Maxtlactle, which are les∣ser [ 40] cloathes B. Item, 800. burdens of great white Mantels of three bracas euery Mantell. Item, 400. burdens of Naguas and Huipiles, which is womans apparell, A. All the which they tributed eue∣ry six moneths. Item, they tributed two pieces of Ar∣mour [ 50] with their Shields decked with rich Feathers of the fashion that they are pictured. Item, 800. packs of Cotten, DE. All the which they tribu∣ted once a yeare. Item, 400 burdens of Axi dried C.

[ 60]

§. III. The third part of this Booke containeth the priuate behauiour in Mariages, education of Children, and Trades; with the Martiall, Ecclesiastike, and Ciuill policie of the MEXICAN people.

A Relation of the manner and custome that the naturall Mexicans had when either a Boy or Girle was borne vnto them. The vse and ceremonies in giuing names to their children, and afterwards to dedicate and offer them either to the Church, or else to the [ 10] warres, according as by the pictures is signified, and briefly declared.

The Woman being deliuered, they laid the childe in a Cradle, according as is pictured, & foure dayes after the birth of the childe the Midwife tooke it in her armes naked, & brought it forth to the yard of the childe wiues house; and in the yard were prepared Bulrushes or Sedges, which they call Tule,* 6.551 and they set vpon them a little pan of water, wherein the said Midwife washed the said childe: after it is washed, three Boyes, which are set by the said Bulrushes, eating tosted Maiz, mingled with sodden Frisoles, which they ••alled Yxicue foode, the which foode made

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A The woman that is deliuered. B These foure Roses signifie foure dayes wherein the Midwife brought forth the childe that was lately borne to wash. C The cradle with the childe. D The Mid∣wife. E The signes, instruments, and the bond (Shield and Darts) FGH the three Boies which name the childe. I The Bulrushes with the pan of water. K The Broome. L The Spindell and [ 60] the Distaffe. M The Basket. N The high Priest. O The childe in his cradle which his Parents offer in the Temple. P The Master or Teacher of boyes and yong men. Q The childes Father. R The childes Mother.

ready, was set in a little pan before the said Boyes, that they might eate it. And after the said bathing or washing, the said Midwife aduertised the said Boyes, that they should with a loud voice giue a new name vnto the childe that she had so washed, and the name that they gaue it was that which the Midwife would impose.

When the childe was brought forth to wash, if it be a man childe they bring him forth with his signe in his hand, and the signe is the Instrument wherewith his Father did exercise himselfe, as well in the Military art, as other arts, as of a Goldsmith, a Grauer, or any other office whatsoe∣uer: And after they had done all the aforesaid, the Midwife brings the childe to his Mother. And if it be a woman-childe, the signe wherewith they bring her to wash, is a Distaffe, a Spindel, a Basket, and a handfull of Broome; which are the things wherewith she should exercise her [ 10] selfe, being of age thereto.

And the bond of the Manchilde with a Shield and Darts for a signe which he brings with him when they bring him for to wash; they offer it to that part and place where are likely to happen warres with his enemies, where they burie it vnder ground. And so likewise of the Woman-childe, her bond they buried vnder the Metate, which is a stone to grinde Cakes vpon.

And after the aforesaid, at the end of twenty dayes, the childes Parents went with the childe to the Temple or Mixquita, which they called Calmecac,* 6.552 and in the presence of the Priests they presented the childe with his offering of Mantels, and Mastelles and some meate: And af∣ter the childe being brought vp by his Parents, and being of age, they committed the childe to [ 20] the high Priest of the said Temple, because there he might be taught that hereafter he might be a Priest.

And if the childes Parents were determined that he (being of age) should serue in warlike affaires, then straight way they offered him to the Master thereof, making him a promise of him (the Master of Boyes and yong men they called Tea••hcauch or Telp••chtlato) which offe∣ring was made with his present of meate and other things for the celebrating thereof. And the childe being of age, they committed him to the said Master.

THe declaration of the pictures contained in the deuision following, wherein is declared at [ 30] what age, and in what manner the naturall Parents did giue counsell to their children, how they ought to liue, as successiuely is pictured in foure partitions, and so the foure partitions of this side are declared in order which are these that follow.

1 The first partition, wherein is declared how that the Parents corrected, their children, in gi∣uing them good counsell when they were three years of age; and the portion of meate that they gaue them euery meale was halfe a cake of bread.

2 The second partition wherein is pictured in what things the Parents did instruct their children when they were of the age of foure yeares, and how they began to exercise them to serue in small things. And the portion of meate which they gaue them at a meale, was a whole Cake.

[ 40]

[illustration]

[ 50] [ 60] A The Boy his Father. B Three yeares of age. C The Boy. D Halfe a Cake. E The Girle her Mother. F Halfe a Cake. G A Girle of three yeares of age. H The Father of the Boy. I A Boy of foure yeares of age. K A Cake. L The Mother of the Girle. M A Cake. N A Girle of foure yeare of age. * A Spindell with a locke of cotten wooll lying on a Mat.

3 The third partition, wherein is shewed that the Parents did exercise their children in bo∣dily labour at fiue yeares of age, in loding their Sonnes with Wood and other things in small burdens, of small weight, and to carry packes of small weight to the Tyangues, or Market place. And they exercised their Daughters of that age, in shewing them how they should handle the Spindell and Distaffe for to spin. And their allowance of meate was a whole Cake of Bread.

4 The fourth partition, wherein is pictured how the Parents instructed their children of six yeares old, and exercised and occupied them in bodily seruice, that they might profit their Pa∣rents in some thing, as in the Tyangues, which are Market-places that they might gather from the ground, the cornes of Maiz and Frisoles that were spilt there by him, and other small things that the buyers and others had left and spilt there. And this was the Boies worke. But the Girles were put to spinne and to doe other profitable seruices, because in time to come, by meanes of [ 10] the said seruices and occupations, they should not spend their time idelly, and should auoide euill v••ces that are wont to grow through idlenesse. And the allowance of meate that they gaue to their children was a Cake and a halfe of Bread.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] O The Father of the Boyes. P Two Boyes of fiue yeares of age▪ Q A Cake. R A Cake. S The Mother of the Girle holding the Spindle and Rocke. T A Cake. V A Girle of fiue yeares old. W The Father of the two Boyes. Two Boyes of six yeares old. X A Cake and a halfe. Y The mother of the Girle. Z A Cake and a halfe. A Girle of six yeares old spinning Cotten wooll.

[ 40]

A Declaration of the figure following, wherein is shewed, at what age and in what things the naturall people of Mexico did instruct their children, and in what manner they corre∣cted them, that they should auoide all idlenesse, and alwayes should be exercised in some profita∣ble things, as successiuely is pictured in foure partitions.

1 The first partition, wherein is pictured how the Parents vse their children of seuen yeares old that is the men children they applyed them in giuing them their fishing Nets. And the Mo∣thers did exercise their Daughters in spinning and in giuing them good counsell that they should alwayes apply and occupie their time in doing some thing for to auoide idlenesse. And the al∣lowance of meate that they gaue to their children at euery meale was a Cake and a halfe of Bread. [ 50]

[illustration]

[ 60] A The Father of the Boyes. B These seuen spots of blew signifie seuen yeares. CF A Cake and a halfe. D A Boy of seuen yeares old, whose Father sheweth him how he should fish with the net he hath in his hand. E The mother of the children. G A Girle of seuen yeares old, whose mother is teaching her to spinne.

2 The second partition: Wherein is pictured, how the Parents did chasten their children of the age of eight yeeres, in laying before them with terrors and feares the thornes of Magu••••, that in being negligent and disobedient to their Parents they should bee chastned with the said thornes, and so for very feare they wept▪ as by the pictures of this partition is signified. And their allowance for a meale, which they gaue them by measure, was a Cake and a halfe.

3 The third partition: Wherein is pictured, how the parents punished their children of nine yeeres of age, because they were disobedient and rebellious to their fathers, they did cha∣stise them with the said thornes of Maguez, binding them naked hand and foot, they thrust the said thornes into their body and shoulders. And they pricked onely the wrists and hands of the Girles with the said thornes▪ as in the said partition is pictured. And their allowance euery [ 10] meale was a Cake and a halfe of bread.

4 The fourth partition: Wherein is pictured, how the parents chastised their children of ten yeeres of age, that is, being rebellious they did chastise them in beating them with a cudgell, and threatning them otherwise as in the fourth partition is pictured. And the allowance which they had giuen them at a meale, was a Cake and a halfe.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] H The father of the children contayned in this row. I These eight spots signifie eight yeeres. KN a cake and a halfe. L a Boy of eight yeeres old, whose father is threatning him that he be not vnhappy, because he will chastise him in thrusting thornes of Maguez into his body. M The mother of the chil∣dren contayned in this row. LO Thornes of Maguez. P a Girle of eight yeeres old, whom her mother [ 50,] threatneth her with thornes of Maguez, that shee bee not vnhappy. Q The father of the children contayned in this side. RW a Cake and a halfe. S These nine spots signifie nine yeeres. T a Boy of nine yeeres old, because he is incorrectible, his father thrusteth thornes of Maguez into his body. V The mother of the children contayned in this row. X a Girle of nine yeeres old, that for her negli∣gence and idlenesse, her mother did chastise her in pricking her hands with thornes of Maguez. Y These ten spots signifie ten yeeres. X The father of the children contayned in this row. ZB a cake and a halfe. A The mother of the children contayned in this row. & a Boy of ten yeeres old, whom his father is chas••••sing with a cudgell staffe. C a Girle of ten yeeres, whom her mother is chastising in bea∣ting her with a cudgell staffe. [ 60]

1. A Declaration of the first partition of the picture following. The Boy or Girle of eleuen yeeres old, which would not bee reformed with wordes nor stripes, their parents did chastise, giuing them into the Nose the smoke of Axi, which was a grieuous and cruell torment, to the intent they should be reformed and not be vicious persons and vagabonds, but should em∣ploy and spend their time in profitable things. And to the children of that age they gaue bread, which are cakes, by measure, only a cake & a halfe at a meale, because they should not be gluttons.

2 In the second partition; The Boy or Girle of the age of twelue yeeres, which would not receiue quietly counsell nor correction at their Fathers hands; the Father tooke that Boy and tyed him hand and foot naked, and stretched him on the ground in a dirtie wet place, where he ••ay so a whole day, because he should be chastised and feared thereby. And the Girle of that age, her Mother made her serue, so that in the night before it were day shee should sweepe all the house and the street, and that alwayes shee might be occupied in bodily seruice. And so likewise their Parents gaue them meat by measure a Cake and a halfe euery meale.

3 In the third partition, the Boy or Girle of thirteene yeeres old, their Fathers employed in bringing wood from the Mountaine, and with a Canoa-boat to bring boughs and other herbs for the seruice of the house. And the Girles should grinde and make Cakes and other mea••es for their Parents. And they gaue their children meat by measure, two Cakes euery meale. [ 10]

4 In the fourth partition; The Boy or Girle of fourteene yeeres old, their Parents did im∣ploy in fishing in Lakes and Riuers with his Canoa. And the Girle was set to weaue yarne of whatsoeuer sort for apparell. And they gaue them to eate two Cakes by measure.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A These eleuen spots of blue signifie eleuen yeeres. B The father of the children. C a Boy of eleuen yeeres old, whose father is chastising him, smoking him at the Nose with Axi dried. D a Cake and a halfe. E a fume or smoke of Axi or Pep∣per, which the Cutter hath not so well expressed. F The mother of the children. G a Girle of eleuen yeeres old, whose mother is chastising her smoking her at the Nose with Axi. H a Cake and a halfe. I a perfume of Axi. K The father of the children. L twelue yeeres. M a Cake and a halfe. N a Boy of twelue yeeres old, tyed hand and foot and laid a whole day on the wet and moist ground. O The mother of the children. P This picture signifieth the night. Q a Cake and a halfe. R a Girle of twelue yeeres old that is sweeping in the night time. S The father of the children. T Thirteene yeeres. V a [ 60] Boy of thirteene yeeres old laden with Sedges. W a Boy of thirteene yeeres which carrieth Sedges in his Canoa. X a Canoa with burdens of Z Canes or Tule. Y Two cakes. Aa The mother of the children. Bb a Girle of thirteene yeeres, which is grinding and making of Cakes, and dressing meat. Cc Two Cakes. Dd a Porenger. Ee Comaly Ff Two Cakes. Gg a pot of boyled meat. Hh Fourteene yeeres. Ii The father of the children. Kk Ll a Boy of fourteene yeeres which goeth a fishing with his Canoa. Mm Two Cakes. Nn The mother. Oo a Girle of fourteene ye••res weauing. Pp Two Cakes. Qq The cloth that shee weaueth.

1 THat which is pictured in the first partition, doth signifie that the Father hauing two sonnes young men, of yeeres able to serue, brought them to the two houses that are pictured, either to the Masters house that did teach and instruct yong men, or else to the Temple, according as the youths were inclined, and so committed them either to the high Priests, or else to the Master of Boyes to the end they might be taught; the youths being fifteene yeeres of age.

2 In the second partition is pictured, the manner and law they had and kept in their Mar∣riages that they made lawfully. The celebration thereof was, that an Amantesa (which is a Broker) carried the Bride on her backe at the beginning of the night, and there went with them foure women with Torches of Pine-tree rosined burning, wherewith they lighted her. And [ 10] being come to the Bridegroomes house, the Parents of the Bridegroome came out to the Court of the house to receiue her, and they carried her into a Hall or some place where the Bridegroome tarried for her. And the betrothed folkes were set on a Mat with their seates neere a pan of fire, and they tyed the one to the other with a corner of their apparell; and made a perfume of Copale to their gods, and two old men and two old women were present as witnesses. Then the mar∣ried folke dined, and afterwards the old folkes. And when dinner was done, the old men and women separated the married folke by themselues, giuing them good counsell how they should behaue themselues and liue, and how they should maintayne the charge and calling they had ta∣ken vpon them, that they might liue with quietnesse.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A The father of the two youths. B a youth of fifteene yeeres old committed to an high Alfaqui or Priest. C Tlam••••••z∣qui, [ 60] which is an high Priest. D a Temple or Mezquita, which they called Calmecac. E a youth of fifteene yeeres, whose fa∣ther putteth him to a Master to be taught. F Tacheauh, a Master. G a house where youths are taught and brought vp in. H Fifteene yeeres. I An old man. K The harth. Copale. L The woman. M The man. N An old woman. * The perfume. O The Mat. P The meat. Q The meat. R An old man. S A Cauter or pot of pulque. T The Cup. V An old woman. W The Bride. X These goe lighting the Bride, whom they goe to leaue at the Bridegroomes house in the beginning of the night. Y Amanteza which carrieth the Bride on her backe. Z These goe lighting of the Bride at the begin∣ning of the night. 1 a torch of Pinetree. 2 a torch. 3 torches of Pinetree. 4 torches of Pine••ree.

1 WHen they entred to bee Priests, the elder Priests occupied them straightway in bodily seruices for their Temples, that afterwards they might bee skil••ull when they were chiefe Priests, that after the same order as they had serued, they might bring vp the other Nouices that should be after them. These Priests are all painted in ash-colour: Other men in an oliue or tawny.

2 In the second partition is declared wherein the young men were occupied and did serue, that thenceforth when they were of yeeres, they might bee skilfull to take charge and command other youths like themselues, that they should not goe idle nor become vagabonds, but that they should alwayes apply themselues to things of vertue.

3 In the third partition is declared likewise the correction and chastising▪ that the chiefe [ 10] Priests did to the Nouice-Priests, which were forgetfull and negligent in their seruices, and for other faults as they committed chastising them according, as is shewed by the pictures.

4 In the fourth partition▪ is declared how the Captaines and warlike men exercised the young men which were of age thereto in warlike affaires, according as their fathers did recom∣mend them.

[illustration]

A Tlama∣caz{que}, A no∣uice Priest that is char∣ged to sweep. [ 20] B A nouice Priest that cōmeth from the wood ladē with boughes for to dresse the Temple. C A nouice Priest laden with thornes [ 30] of Maguez, for to draw bloud with all to offer sacri∣fice to the de∣uill. D A nouice Priest which is la∣den with green cane•• for the [ 40] Temple for to make S••ates and Toe. E A youth which is laden with a great log to keepe fire in the Temple. F Youthes which are la∣den [ 50] with logs of wood for to keepe fire in the Temple. G A youth laden with boughes for to dresse the Temple. H This chiefe Priest is punishing the nouice Priest because he was negli∣gent in his office. I The nouice Priest. K The chiefe Priest. L The nouice Priest. M Another elder Priest. They are punishing this nouice Priest, pricking him with thornes of Magues throughout his body, because he was a rebell and disobedient and negligent in that he was commanded to doe. N This house signifieth that if the nouice Priest went to his house to sleepe three dayes they punished, as is aboue pictured and declared. O Tequigna, which is a valiant War∣riour. [ 60] P The youth. Q The father of the youth that offereth his sonne to the valiant Warriour, to exercise him in warlike affaires, and to carrie him to the warres. R The youth who is publike seruant to the valiant man that goeth to the warre with him, carrying his baggage on his backe with his owne Armour. S Teouina, a valiant man that go∣eth armed to the warres.

1 HEreis declared how the chiefe Priests did exercise and occupie them selues in the night time, whereof some occupied themselues in going to the Mountaynes, to offer sacrifice to their Gods, others in Musicke, and others were obseruers of time by the Starres of the Ele∣ment, and others in other things of their Temples.

2 In the second partition is declared the punishment they did vse to the young men, accor∣ding as the Pictures doe represent. The which was executed according to the Lawes and Statutes of the Lords of Mexico.

4 The punishment that the Beadles Telpuchtlatos did vse to the vicious young men, which went about like Vagabonds according to their Lawes, and the rest pictured and declared in the [ 10] same partition.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A chiefe Priest which goeth in the night with his fire burning to a Mountaine to doe penance. And hee carrieth in his hand a purse of Capaly, which is Perfume to offer Sacrifice to the Deuill. And at his backe Poyson in a vessell for the same Sacrifice, and he carrieth his boughes to beset the place of Sacrifice. And hath after him a nouice Priest, which carrieth other things for the Sacrifice. B A nouice Priest. C A chiefe Priest, which is playing on the Teponaztly, which is an Instrument of Mu∣sicke, and he exerciseth himselfe thereon in the night. D This Picture with eyes doth signifie the night. E This Picture with eyes doth signifie the night. F A chiefe Priest which is looking on the starres of the Element by night, to see what houre it is in the night, which is his charge and office. G A young man that goeth to warre, laden with stuffe and instruments of Armour. H Telpuchtlato. I The youth. K The woman. I. Telpuchtlato The two Telpuchtlato, do signifie Beadles to rule youths, that when any youth did fall in loue with any woman, they chastised the young man, throwing burning fire brands at him, and parted their loue. M A chiefe Priest whose office is to sweepe the Temples, or command them to be swept. N A chiefe Priest. O The nouice Priest. P The woman. Q A chiefe Priest. The declaration of the pictures of these two chiefe Priests is, that if the nouice Priest was negligent or had accesse to any woman, or fell in loue, the chiefe Priests did chastise him, thrusting thornes of Pine-tree made like pricks in all his body. R Telpuchtlato, a Beadle. S The young man. T Teach••auh, the Beadle. By these Pictures is declared that if a young man went about like a Vagabond, the two Beadles did correct him in powling and ••••••dging his head with fire. V A young man that is occupied in carrying stones with his Canoa to repaire the Temple. X The Temple.

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20] [ 30] [ 40]

This Picture expresseth the Priests employments. A A nouice Priest occupied in carrying of stones in his Canoa, for the reparation of the Temple. B The Temple called Ayauhcaly. C A nouice Priest that goeth to the warre with a chiefe Priest carrying his package. D A chiefe Priest that goeth to warre, for to enforce and boulden the Warriours, and to doe other Ceremonies in the Warres.

Their Armes, which signes of Armes were made of more authoritie from degree to degree, according as the worthinesse of the man of warre was knowne, and the number of the Captiues that they tooke. As is shewed sufficiently in the Pictures with their signes and Armes, and fashions of attire, and the degrees whereby they came to be valiant men in Warres. The first degree.

E Tecutlyas, Constable and Iustice of the Lords of Mexico. F An Officer that followeth the Tecutly, as his Sergeant. G A Temple called Sihnateo••aly. H The high way or street with a bridge of wood. I A young man, who if hee tooke any Prisoner in the Warres, they gaue him for reward a Mantle of the fashion, of thi•• quadrant with his followers, in a token of his valiantnesse. K The aboue said Teeth, in these Pictures signifie, that he is occupied in repayring the streets and bridges that goe to the Temple. L A Captiue. M This valiant man all in red, because hee tooke two enemies, they rewarded him with the fashion of Armour he hath on, and more (N) the square Mantle of Orange-tawnie with a red twist▪ in token of his va∣liantnesse. O A Captiue. P This valiant Champion with a reward of the deuice he hath on, and this (Q) Mantle of rich wo••ke for a token that he tooke three enemies in the Warres. R A Prisoner. S This valiant Champion with the deuice he•• [ 60] hath on, and the square Mantle. T Of two colours (blacke and Orange-tawnie) with a list, in token that hee had taken foure enemies in the Wars. V A Captiue. W This valiant man with the deuice of Armour that he hath and his second name Eton∣ti for his valiantnesse, and because he tooke fiue or sixe en••mies in the Wars, the which valiant man is hee that is aboue con∣tayned, who had his beginning of one enemy he tooke in the wars, and so from degree to degree, he hath come to this degree. X A Captiue. Y This valiant man called Quagchil, with the deuice of Armour that he hath on, shewing that hee had taken fiue at the Wars of Gue••o, besides that in other Wars he tooke many of his enemies. Z A Captiue. & And this valiant man named Tlacatecatl, with the fashion of the apparell he hath on, and his tassell and deuice of rich feathers, do shew that he had done all the valiant acts afore pictured and declared, and is knowne to haue more title of valiantnesse of person then are pictured.

1 THe chiefe Priests did exercise warlike affaires, & according as they proued in valiant acts, and as the number of the Captiues were that they tooke, so the Lords of Mexico gaue them titles of honour, and Blasons of Armes with deuices of their valiantnesse, as is shewed by the Pictures, and by the Armor they haue on. In the third partition are the titles of honour, which they obtayned by the exercise of war, whereby they came to a higher degree, the Lord of Mexico making them Captains and Generals of the Souldiers. And those of the one side serued for Mes∣singers and Executioners of that which the Lords of Mexico determined and commanded, aswel in things touching the Common-wealth of Mexico, as also in other townes of their dominions.

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A A Priest that captiued one enemie in the warres. B The same Priest aforesaid, because he tooke two enemies in the warres, he is rewarded with the deuice of Armour he hath on. C The aforesaid Priest, because through his valiant∣nesse he tooke three enemies, he is rewarded with the deuice of Armour he hath on. P P P Captiues. D The same Priest abouesaid, because he t••oke foure enemies in the warre, for a token of his valiantnesse, he is rewarded with the de∣uice of Armour he hath on, blacke and white. E The same Priest because he tooke fiue of his enemies in warres, for [ 60] a token of his valiantnesse, he is rewarded with the deuice of Armour he hath on, all red. F The same Priest for that he tooke sixe enemies in the warres, for a token of his force and valour, the Lord of Mexico rewarded 〈◊〉〈◊〉 w••th the de∣uice of Arm••u•• he hath on. His person yellow, feathers greene, target red, greene, yellow. G Quauhnochtli, an Officer which put Mandats in execution. H Tlilancalqui, another kind. I Atenpanecatl, a third sort. K Ez∣guagacatl, a fourth sort. These foure in this rowe did serue for Messingers and Executioners of that which the Lords of Mexico determined and did command. L Tlacochcalcatl. M Tezcacoacatl. N Tycocyahuacatl. O Te∣quiltecatl. These foure on this rowe are valiant men in warre, and Captaines of the Armies of the Mexicans and per∣sons which executed the charge of Generals ouer the Mexicans Armies.

THe Casique (that is, a Lord of a Towne) because hee rebelled against the Lordship of Mexico by the Executioners afore contayned, had a rope cast about his necke wherewith for his re∣bellion, he was condemned by the Lords of Mexico to die, and his wife and children to be taken and brought prisoners to the Court of Mexico. And for the accomplishing of the condemnation the officers are executing the penalties wherein he was condemned, as is signified by the pictures.

2 He together with his seruants and towne are condemned to be destroyed. And so the Exe∣cutioners, by the commandement of the Lords of Mexico, are giuing him to vnderstand of the said condemnation, in token whereof they marke him with the signes that ••hey set on his head, and the Target that they present him with, because he should not be ignorant of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••struction. And the pictures of men with mortall wounds, doe signifie that they were Merchants and Occu∣piers of Mexico, which came with things to the Countrie and Towne of the said Casique; and [ 10] the seruants of the Casique assaulted them on the high-way, killing them and taking away the merchandise they carried, which was the occasion of the destruction of the Towne.

3 In the third partition: The foure Officers or Ambassadors of the Lords of Mexico, doe sig∣nifie that they haue warned the said Casique contayned in the second partition before this, as is abouesaid, at the returning of the Executioners towards Mexico, there came out to the high-way certaine seruants of the said Casique to misse-vse them, shooting arrowes at them in token of war.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A Huiznahuatlan, officer and executioner as a Sergeant. B Executioner. C Casique. D Executioner. E The wife of the Casique imprisoned, with a yoke of Iron about her necke. F The sonne of the Casique taken prisoner with a yoke of Iron. G The seruant of the Casique. H The merchant. I a bundell [ 60] of merchandise. K The merchant. L The seruant of the Casique. M Executioner. N Execu∣tioner. O Casique. P An Executioner or Ambassador of the Lord of Mexico. Q An Executio∣ner or Ambassador of the Lord of Mexico. R a seruant of the Casique. S An Executioner or Am∣bassador of the Lord of Mexico. T An Executioner or Ambassador of the Lord of Mexico. V a ser∣uant of the Casique. W a seruant of the Casique which shooteth at the Ambassadors of the Lords of Mexico, for more occasion of warre.

1 THe Tequichna signifieth Spies, sent to the Towne of the Casique by the Lord of Mexi∣co, that in the night time they might goe and walke it secretly vnknowne to their e∣nemies, to aduertise and giue warning vnto the Souldiers, where they should enter with the bat∣taile. And so the Tequichna goe round about the Towne, Houses, Market place, and Church, at the time that they of the Towne are asleepe and at rest, for to finde a place where they may giue the onset with the lesse trouble and resistance.

2 A de••l••ration of the pictures in the second partition. The Mexican that is pictured and at his shou••d ••s a Target and Darts, doth signifie the Mexicans being mooued to destroy a cer∣taine Towne by warres, because they had rebelled against the Lordship of Mexico. And the o∣ther three that are pictured and set ouer against the Mexicans are seruants of the Casique, which [ 10] doe signifie that the whole Towne of the Casique being afraid of the warres and destruction that the Mexicans would bring vpon them, they come to Mexico to entreat a peace, submitting themselues for seruants of Mexico, and protesting to acknowledge the Lordship, by meanes whereof they receiue them in friendship and for their seruants, laying aside that which was de∣termined by their counsell.

The foure valiant men pictured and intituled, with their Speares in their hands, and made readie for the warres, and the deuices of Armour that they haue on, doe signifie that they are Captaines of the Mexicans armies.

[illustration]

[ 20] A Tequihna. B Tequihna. C Tianguas, a Marquet place. D ••e∣quihna. FE [ 30] houses. F Te∣quihna. G a Temple. H Tequihna. I Tequihna. K T••quihna. L Tequihna. •• This par••i∣tion 〈…〉〈…〉 is the towne [ 40] of the Ca∣sique afore-contayned. MNO these three are ser∣ua••••s of the Casique. P Mexicans. Q a Target and Darts. [ 50] R Captaine Tlacatecatl. S Captaine Tlacochcal∣catl. T Captaine 〈◊〉〈◊〉. V Captaine Ticocyahud∣catl. [ 60]

1 HE that is set and at his backe a woman spinning, signifieth that it is his wife new married, and because he had taken the state of matrimonie vpon him, hauing been a Messenger with the rest that are pictured before him, which are fiue, named Tetpuchtly, which are Messengers likewise. The married man gi∣ueth them a reason why hee leaueth the charge of a Messenger by reason of his marriage, and that hee will rest and leaue off his seruice past. And to please them more, and that they should grant his request, hee maketh them a banquet in giuing them well to eate and drinke, and moreouer the present that bee giueth them is a handfull of perfumes, a copper Hatchet and two Mantels, as by the pictures of these things are intituled. And by this solemnitie the married man is free from the said Office.

2 In the second partition: Hee that is set downe and intituled, doth signifie the Lord of Mexico, that when any Messenger Telpuchtly pictured in the partition before this had giuen a good account of his office, and hauing taken vpon them the state of marriage, the Lords of Mexico from that they were but Messengers, did [ 10] promote them to a be••ter title and degree, in so much that he made them Tequihna, which is signified by the pictures and titles of Tequihna, with their Speares and Fannes, giuing them authoritie to bee his Ambassadors and Officers in the warres, which they held for an office of great honour.

3 The Alcaldes doe signifie Iustices, appointed by the Lords of Mexico, that they should heare matters aswell Ciuill as Criminall. And the pictures of men and women which are before them, are Pleaders and Sui∣tors which doe aske iustice. And the foure pictures that are intituled Teeth, that are behinde the Alcaldes, are principall young men that ioyne with the Alcaldes in their audience, to learne and instruct themselues in matters of iudgement, and afterwards to succeede in the Offices of the Alcaldes. From these Alcaldes, there was an appellation before the counsell Chamber of Moteçuma, as hereafter is pictured.

[ 20]

[illustration]

AAAAA The [ 30] Telpuchtly or yong men which are of∣ficers or messen∣gers. B Two man∣tels. C a handful of perfumes. D Ta∣males or bread. E a copper hatchet. F a boyled hen. G Xicara with Ca∣cao to drinke. H Telpuchtly maried [ 40] I The wife of the maried Telpuchtly K The Lord of Mexico. L Te∣quihna. N Te∣quibna. OOO Tectly. P Tectly Mixcoatlaylotlac a Iustice like an Al∣calde. Q Ezgua∣gacatl Alcalde. R Acatlyacapanecatl [ 50] Alcalde. S Te∣quixquinahuacatl Alcalde. T These sixe pictures three of men and three of women, are plea∣ders and suitors which aske Iustice of the Alcaldes. [ 60]

THe fashion of the Counsell Chambers of the Lord or King of Mexico, and of his Royall Houses and Courts, and the steps where they entred in, and the Throne and Seate of Mote∣çuma, and in the spaces of euery thing is declared and intituled what they signifie, and so in this declaration it is not repeated. But that in one Counsell Chamber, when that by way of offence they were agrieued, and hauing a iust cause not being sentenced and determined by the Alcaldes, then by degree of appellation they appealed from the Alcaldes before the Counsell. And if it were a matter of importance they appealed from the Counsell Chamber before Moteçuma the King himselfe, where the matter was concluded.

In the Chamber, that is intituled, The Counsell Chamber of warre, were prouided Captaines [ 10] and Armies for the warres, as was appointed by Moteçuma.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A The Throne and Maiestie of Moteçuma where he sate on Court-dayes, and on iudgement. B Mo∣teçuma. C a house where the Lords of T••nay••ca, Chienauhtla, and Colhuacan, were lodged that were friends and confederates of Moteçuma. D a house where the chiefe Lords of Tezcucoytacuba were lodged that were Moteçuma his friends. EFG The Court of the royall houses of Moteçuma. HK These lines that goe vpward are the steps to the Courts of the royall houses of Moteçuma. I The counsell chamber of warre. K The counsell chamber of Moteçuma. L These foure are as Auditors of the counsell of Moteçuma, wise men. M Pleaders and Sutors that in the degree and appellation from the Alcaldes, doe present themselues and appeare before the Auditors of the counsell of Moteçuma.

[ 60]

THe father and the sonne that sit against each other face to face, signifie that the father giueth his sonne good counsell, that he be not vicious, laying before him for example, that those which come to vertue come afterwards in credit with the Lords and Casiques; In that they giue

them honest offices, and doe vse them to be their Messengers, and they doe admit Musicians and Singers vnto their feasts and weddings for the credit they beare.

2 The pictured in the house, where they meane to talke and prouide for publike affaires, and the Steward that sitteth therein, doth signifie that there are before him weeping, because it hath happened vnto them to be occupied in bodily labour, that the Coas and Guacales doe represent. And the Steward is giuing them good counsell, and exhorting them to flee idlenesse, is the cause that they come to be Theeues and players at the Ball, and players at Patol, after the manner of Dice, from which Games doe spring theft for to satisfie and fulfill such vices.

3 The Carpenter, Lapidane, Painter, Gold-smith, and garnisher of feathers, signifie that those Artificers teach their sonnes their occupation from their childhood, that when they are [ 10] men they might follow their Trade, and spend their time in things of vertue, giuing them coun∣sell that of idlenesse commeth euill vices, and so euill tongues, tale-bearing, drunkennesse, and theeuerie, and many other euill vices.

[illustration]

[ 20] [ 30] [ 40] [ 50] A a Messenger. BCD The father counselleth his sonne to apply himselfe to all vertue. E One hauing a ghest, entertayneth a Musician. FGI a house where they me••t for publike affaires. H The Petlacalcatl. KM Coa and Guacal. LN Touthes. O a vagabond. P a player at the ball. Q a Thiefe. R a player at Patol or Dice after their manner. S a Carpenter. T The Carpenters sonne. V a Lapidarie. W The Lapidaries sonne. X a Painter Y The Painters sonne. Z a Gold-smith. [ 60] & The Gold-smiths sonne. Aa An ill tongued man and tale-bearer. Bb An artificer that garnisheth with feathers, Cc The artificers sonne. Dd a drunkard. Ee a drunkard and thiefe, the last worke like a halter seemes to signifie the euill ends which such come to. The particular punish∣ments follow in the next picture.

[illustration]

[ 10] [ 20] [ 30] [ 40] A These two Pictures signifie that the young men that were drunke with Wine, dyed for that ac∣cording to the Law. B A young man that was drunke. C A young woman if shee were drunke with Wine was killed heere according to the Lawes of Mexico. D A Thiefe, they stoned him to death according to the Lawes of the Lords of Mexico. E These two Pictures layed and couered with clothes, doe shew that if any man had carnall dealing with a married woman, they stoned them both to death, according to the Lawes of the Lords of Mexico. F An old man of [ 50] threescore and tenne yeeres, hath licence to drinke Wine and to bee drunke aswell publikely as secret∣ly because he is so old, and hath Sonnes and Nephewes, at which yeeres Wine and drunkennesse was not forbidden them. G An old woman, wife to the old man aboue pistured, had priui∣ledge to bee drunke as well as her Husband, because shee had children, and childrens children and to all those of the like age, drunkennesse was not forbidden them.

[ 60]

CHAP. VIII. Conquest of Mexico and New Spaine by HERNAN∣DO CORTES.

HErnando a 6.553 Cortes was borne at Medellin in Andulozia, a Prouince of Spaine, An∣no 1485. When he was nineteene yeeres old, he sayled to the Iland of Saint Do∣mingo, where Ouando the Gouernour kindly entertayned him. He went to the conquest of Cuba in the yeere 1511. as Clerke to the Treasurer, vnder the con∣duct of Iames Velasques, who gaue vnto him the Indians of Manicorao, where [ 10] hee was the first that brought vp Kine, Sheepe and Mares, and had heards and flockes of them: and with his Indians he gathered great quantitie of Gold, so that in short time he was able to put in two thousand Castlins for his stocke, with Andres de Duero, a Merchant. At this time Christopher Morante had sent (Anno 1517.) Francis Hernandes de Cordoua, who first discouered Xucatan, whence he brought nothing (except the relation of the Country) but stripes: whereupon Iames Velasques in the yeere 1518. sent his Kinsman Iohn de Grijalua, with two hundred Spaniards b 6.554 in foure ships: he traded in the Riuer of Tauasco, and for trifles re∣turned much Gold, and curious workes of feathers, Idols of Gold, a whole harnesse or furniture for an armed man of Gold thin beaten, Eagles, Lions, and other pourtratures found in Gold, &c. But while Grijalua deferred his returne, Velasques agreed with Cortes to bee his partner in the [ 20] Discouery, which he gladly accepted, and procured licence from the Gouernours in Domingo, and prepared for the Voyage.

Velasques afterward vsed all meanes to breake off, in so much that Cortes was forced to engage all his owne stocke, and credit, with his friends in the Expedition, and with fiue hundred and fiftie Spaniards in eleuen ships, set saile the tenth of February 1519. and arriued at the Iland of Acusamil. The Inhabitants at first fled, but by the kind entertainment of some that were taken, they returned, and receiued him and his with all kind offices.

They told him of certayne bearded men in Yucatan, whither Cortes sent; and one of them, Geronimo de Aguilar came vnto him, who told him, that by shipwracke at Iamaica, their Caruell [ 30] being lost, twentie of them wandred in the Boat without sayle, water or bread, thirteene or fourteene dayes, in which space the violence of the current had cast them on shoare in a Prouince called Maija, where, as they trauelled, seuen dyed with famine; and their Captayne Valdinia and other foure were sacrificed to be Idols by the Cacike, or Lord of the Coun••rey, and eaten in a solemne Banquet, and he with sixe other were put into a Coope or Cage, to bee fatned for a∣nother Sacrifice. But breaking Prison, they escaped to another Cacike, enemy to the former, where all the rest dyed, but himselfe, and Gonsalo Gu••rrer a Mariner. Hee had transformed him∣selfe into the Indian cut, boring his nose full of holes, his eares jagged, his face and hands pain∣ted; married a Wife, and became a Captaine of name amongst the Indians, and would not re∣turne with this Aguilar.

Cortes with this new Interpreter passed vp the Riuer Tauasco, called of the former Discouerer, [ 40] Grijalua; where the Towne that stood thereon, refusing to victuall him, was taken and sacked. The Indians herewith inraged, assembled an Armie of fortie thousand, but Cortes by his Horse and Ordnance preuayled;* 6.555 the Indians thinking the Horse and Rider had beene but one creature, whose gaping and swiftnesse was terrible vnto them, whereupon they submitted themselues. When they heard the Horses ney, they had thought the Horses could speake, and demanded what they said: the Spaniards answered, These Horses are sore offended with you, for fighting with them, and would haue you corrected: the simple Indians presented Roses and Hens to the beasts, desiring them to eate, and to pardon them.

Cortes purposed to discouer further Westward, because hee heard that there were Mines of [ 50] Gold, hauing first receiued their Vassallage to the King his Master, to whom (he said) the Mo∣narchie of the Vniuersall did appertayne. These were the first Vassals the Emperour had in New Spaine. They named the towne, where these things were done, Victorie, before called Po∣tonchan, contayning neere fiue and twentie thousand houses, which are great, made of Lime, and Stone,* 6.556 and Bricke, and some of mud-wals and rafters, couered with straw; their dwelling is in the vpper part of the house, for the moystnesse of the soyle. They did eate mans flesh sacrificed.

The Spaniards sayled Westward, and came to Saint Iohn de Vlhua, where Tendilli the Gouer∣nour of the Countrey, came to him with foure thousand Indians. Hee did his reuerence to the Captayne, burning Frankincense (after their custome) and little strawes, touched in the bloud of his owne bodie: and then presented vnto him victuals and Iewels of Gold, and other curious [ 60] workes of feathers; which Cortes requited with a Collar of Glasse, and other things of small va∣lue. A woman-slaue, giuen him at Potonchan, vnderstood their language, and shee with Agui∣lar, were his Interpreters. Cortes professed himselfe the seruant of a great Emperour, which had

sent him thither, whose power he so highly extolled, that Teudilli maruelled, thinking there had beene no such Prince in the World, as his Master and Soueraigne, the King of Mexico, whose Vassall he was, named, Mutezuma. To him he sent the representations of these bearded men, and their Horses, Apparell, Weapons, Ordnance, and other Rarities, painted in Cotton-clothes, their ships and numbers. These painted Cottons he sent by Posts, which deliuered them from one to another with such celeritie, that in a day and night the message came to Mexico, which was two hundred and ten miles distant. Cortes had demanded, whether Mutezuma had Gold? Teu∣dilli affirmed, and Cortes replyed, That he and his fellowes had a disease of the heart,* 6.557 whereunto Gold was the best remedie.

Mutezuma sent him many Cotton-clothes of diuers colours, many tuffes of Feathers, two [ 10] Wheeles, the one of Siluer, with the signe of the Moone, and the other of Gold, made like the Sunne;-which they hold for Gods, and giue vnto them the colours of the Metals most like them. Each Wheele was two yards and a halfe broad. These with other parts of the Present were esteemed worth twentie thousand Duckets. Mutezuma also professed ioy, to heare of so great a Prince, & so strange people, & promised prouision of all necessaries, but was very vnwilling that Cortes should come to see him, as he pretended. Yet Cortes persisted in that his desire of see∣ing Mutezuma, that he might further acquaint himselfe with the knowledge of those parts.

The silly Indians hauing neuer seene such strange sights, came daily to the Campe to see them and when they heard the Ordnance discharged, they fell downe flat, thinking the Heauens had falne: the ships they thought were the God of the Ayre, called Quezalcouolt, which came with [ 20] the Temples on his backe, for they daily looked for him. Amongst the rest, or rather aloofe off from the rest, were certayne Indians of differing habit, higher then the other, and had the gristles of their Noses slit, hanging ouer their mouthes, and Rings of Iet and Amber hanging thereat: their neather lips also bored, and in the holes, Rings of Gold and Turkesse-stones, which weighed so much, that their lips hung ouer their chinnes, leauing their teeth bare. This vglinesse they ac∣counted gallantry, and such vncouth deformitie to be the only brauery. And thou Gallant,* 6.558 that readest and deridest this madnesse of Fashion, if thine eyes were not dazeled with lightnesse (light I cannot call it) of selfe-reflected Vanitie, mightest see as Monster-like fashions at home, and a more fashionly Monster of thy selfe; thy clothes and oathes, thy gestures and vestures, make thy naked Deformitie worse then their thus deformed nakednesse: both in deed seeme to haue re∣ceiued [ 30] some hellish Character (if there may bee bodily representation) of that olde Serpent in these new fashions, striuing who shall shape himselfe, neerest to that misse-shapen vglinesse, wherein the Indian-jagges himselfe out of humane lineaments, the other swaggers himselfe further out of all Ciuill and Christian ornaments. But these Fashion-mongers haue made mee almost out of my fashion, and to forget my selfe, in remembring their forgetfulnesse.

These Indians of this New-cut, Cortes caused to come to him, and learned that they were of Zempoallan, a Citie distant thence a dayes journey,* 6.559 whom their Lord had sent to see what Gods were come in those Teucallis, that is Temples (so, it seemeth, they called the ships:) which held no conuersation with the other Indians, as being not subject to Mutezuma, but onely as they were holden in by force. He gaue them certaine toyes, and was glad to heare that the Indians [ 40] of Zempoallan, and other their Neighbours were not well affected to Mutezuma, but readie, as farre as they durst, to entertayne all occasions of warre with him.* 6.560 Hee sayled from thence to Pa∣nuco, and passed the Riuer farther, till he came to a little Towne, where was a Temple, with a little Towre, and a Chappell on the top ascended by twenty steps, in which they found some I∣dols, many bloudy Papers, and much mans bloud, of those which had beene sacrificed, the blocke also whereon they cut open those Sacrifices, and the Razors made of flint, wherewith they ope∣ned their brests, which strucke the Spaniards with some horrour and feare. They passed a little further, and there hauing taken possession, in the Emperours name, of the whole Countrey, they founded the Towne De la vera Crux, Cortes resigning his authoritie, and Officers being elected;* 6.561 and lastly, all with generall consent appointing Cortes their Captaine.

Cortes went forward to Zempoallan, where hee was solemnely receiued and lodged in a great [ 50] house of lime and stone, whited with playster, that shined in the Sunne, as if it had beene Siluer; so did the Siluer-conceits of the Spaniards imagine, the desire of that Metall hauing made such an impression in their imagination, that they told Cortes before hee came at it, they had seene a house with wals of Siluer. Here, and at Chiauiztlan, Cortes incited them to rebell against Mu∣tezuma, and to become seruants to the Spaniards, which they did: and he vnder-hand so wrought, that Mutezuma tooke him for his friend.

All his intent was to fish in troubled waters, and to set them both by the eares, that hee might watch oportunitie to benefit himselfe. His owne people rebelled, some of whom he cha∣stised with the halter and the whip for example to the rest: and after caused all his ships to bee [ 60] sunke closely, that they should not minde any returne. He left 150. man for the guard of the new Towne, vnder Pedro de Henrico, and with 400. Spaniards, fifteene Horses, and sixe Peeces of Ar∣tillery, and 1300 Indians, they went from Zempoallan, and came to Zaclotan, the Lord whereof was Olintler the subject of Mutezuma, who to testifie his joy, and to honour Cortes, commanded fifty men to be sacrificed, whose bloud they saw, new and fresh.

They carried the Spaniards on their shoulders, sitting on Beeres, such as whereon they vse to carry dead men. He bragged as much of the power of Mutezuma, as their Spaniards of their Em∣perour. He said he had thirty Vassals, each of which was able to bring into the field an hundred thousand men of Warre,* 6.562 and sacrificed 20000. men yearely to the gods: in this he somewhat exceeded; the other was true, although some yeares, the Sacrifices also were thought to amount to 50000. This Towne was great, and had thirteene Temples, in each of which were many I∣dols of stone, of diuers fashions, before whom they sacrificed Men, Doues, Quailes, & other things with great perfumes and veneration. Here Mutezuma had 5000. Souldiers in Garrison. Cortes passed from thence to Mexico by the Frontiers of Tlaxcallon, which were enemies to Mutezu∣ma, whom he might easily haue ouercome, but reserued, partly for the exercise of his Subiects to the Warre, par••ly for the Sacrifices to his gods. [ 10]

These ioyned an hundred and fifty thousand men against Cortes, taking him for Mutezuma's friend: and yet euery day sent him Guinney-cockes and Bread, partly to espie his strength, and partly in a brauery, lest their glory should be obscured in the conquest of men already starued. But when in many skirmishes and fights they could not preuaile against that handfull of Spaniards, they thought they were preserued from harme by inchantments: and sent him three presents with this message; That if he were that rigorous god which eateth mans flesh, he should eate those fiue slaues which they brought him, and they would bring him more: if he were the meeke and gentle god, behold Frankinsence, and Feathers: if he were a mortall man, take here Fowle, Bread, and Cherries. At last they made peace with him, and submitted their City to him. Their City Tlaxcallan was great,* 6.563 planted by a Riuers side, which issued into the South-Sea. It had foure [ 20] Streetes, each of which had their Captaine in the time of Warre. The gouernment was an Ari∣stocraty, hating Monarchy no lesse then tyranny. It had eight and twenty Villages, and in them an hundred and fifty thousand Housholds, very poore, but good warriors. They had one Market-place so spacious, that thirty thousand persons in a day came thither to buy and sell by exchange: for money they had none.

Mutezuma had sent before to Cortes, and promised tribute to the Emperour, whatsoeuer should be imposed; onely he would not haue him come to Mexico. And now he sent againe, that he should not trust that new friendship with the beggerly Nation of Tlaxcallan; and they againe counselled him not to aduenture himselfe to Mutezuma. Cortes held his determination for Mexico, and being accompanied with many of the Tlaxcantlexas, he went to Chololla, a lit∣tle [ 30] from whence Mutezuma had prepared an Army to intrap him in the way; but he finding the trechery,* 6.564 it redounded vpon the Cholollois, the same day they had thought to haue executed the same vpon him. For this end they had sacrificed ten children, fiue males, and as many females, three yeares old, to Quezalcouatl their god, which was their custome when they began their Wars. He out-going them in their owne art of subtilty, intrapped their Captains in Counsell, and sent his Army to spoile the City, where were slaine thousands. There were twenty Gentle∣men, and many Priests which ascended vp to the high towre of their Temple, which had an hun∣dred and twenty steps, where they were burned, together with their gods and Sanctuary.

This Citie had twenty thousand Housholds within the Wals, and as many in the Suburbs. It [ 40] shewed outward very faire and full of Towres,* 6.565 for there were as many Temples as dayes in the yeare, and euery one had his Towre. The Spaniards counted foure hundred Towers. It was the Citie of most deuotion in all India, whither they trauelled from many places farre distant in Pil∣grimage. Their Cathedrall Temple was the best and highest in all New-Spaine, with an hun∣dred and twenty steps vp to it. Their chiefe god was Quezalcouatl, god of the Ayre, who was (they say) founder of their Citie being a Virgin, of holy life and great penance. He instituted fasting, and drawing of bloud out of their eares and tongues, and left precepts of Sacrifices. Hee neuer ware but one garment of Cotten, white, narrow, and long, and vpon that a Mantle, beset with certaine red crosses. They haue certaine greene stones which were his, and are kept for great relikes: one of them is like an Apes head. Eight leagues from Chololla is the hill Popoca∣tepec,* 6.566 [ 50] or smoake-hill, which the Earth seemeth to haue erected as a Fort to encounter and as∣sault the Ayre: now with smoky mists endeuouring to choake his purer breath, another while with violent flames, and naturall fire-workes threatning to ioyne league with his elder and su∣periour brother to disinherit him: sometimes with showers of ashes and embers, as it were, put∣ting out the eyes, and sometimes with terrible and dreadfull thunders, rending the eares of that Airy Element; alwayes (such is the euent of warre) hurting and wasting it selfe, to indamage the enemy. The Indians thought it a place of Purgatory, whereby tyrannicall and wicked Officers were punished after their death, and after that purgation passed into glory. The Spaniards ad∣uentured to see it, but two onely held on their iourney, and had there beene consumed, had they not by a Rocke bin shadowed from the violent eruption of the fire which then hapned. It [ 60] chanced that the Earth, weary it seemeth of the warre, as hauing spent her store and muniti∣on, agreed on a truce which continued ten yeares: but in the yeare 1540. it brake forth into more violent hostility then before, quaking and renting it selfe with vnbridled passion: and whereas the Ayre had alwaies a snowie Garrison about her high tops and frontiers, to coole and

quench her fiery showers, yet these did but kindle a greater flame, the ashes whereof came to Huexozinco, Quelaxcopon, Tepiacac, Chololla and Tlazcallan, and other places, ten, or as some say, fifteene leagues distant, and burned their hearbs in their Gardens, their fields of Corne, Trees and cloathes that they laid a drying. The Vulcan, Crater, or mouth whence the fire issued, is about halfe a league in compasse. The Indians kissed their garments (an honour done vnto their gods) which had aduentured themselues to this dreadfull spectacle.

Cortes drawing neere to Mexico, Mutezuma feared, saying, These are the people which our gods said should come and inherit this Land. He went to his Oratory,* 6.567 and there shut vp him∣selfe alone, abiding eight daies in praier and fasting, with sacrifice of many men, to aslake the [ 10] fury of his offended deities. The Deuill bids him not to feare, and that he should continue those bloudy Rites, assuring him that he should haue the gods Vitziliputzli and Tesca••lipuca to preserue him, saying, That Quezalcouatl permitted the destruction at Chololla, for want of that bloudy sacrifice. Cortes passed a Hill six miles in height, where, by the difficulty of the passage, and of the cold (being alway couered with Snow) the Mexicans might easily haue preuented his passing further. Hence he espied the Lake, whereon Mexico and many other great Townes did stand, Ixtacpallapan a Towne of 10000. housholds, Coyocan of six thousand, Vizilopuchtli of fiue thou∣sand. These Towns are adorned with many Temples and Towres, that beautifie the Lake. From Iztacpalapan to Mexico is two Leagues, all on a faire causey, with many draw-bridges, thorow which the water passeth.

[ 20] Mutezuma receiued Cortes with all solemnity on the eight of Nouember 1519. into this great Citie, excusing himselfe of former vnkindnesses the best he could. Of his house, and Maiestie, and the diuine conceit the people had of him, we shall speake after more fully, as also of the Temples, Priests, Sacrifices and other remarkeable things of Mexico.

Mutezuma prouided all things necessary for the Spaniards and Indians that attended them: euen beds of flowers were made, in place of litter for their Horses. But Cortes disquieted with those thoughts which commonly attend Ambition (discontent in the present, hopes and feares of the future) vsed the matter so, that he tooke Mutezuma prisoner, and detained him in the place appointed for the Spaniards lodging, with a Spanish Guard about him, permitting him o∣therwise to deale in all priuate or publike affaires, as before. Hereupon Cacama, Lord of Texcu∣co, [ 30] Nephew to Mutezuma, rebelled, but by treachery of his owne people was presented priso∣ner to Mutezuma. He, after this summond a Parliament, where hee made an Oration vnto his Subiects, saying, a 6.568 That He and his Predecessours were not Naturals of the Countrey, but his Fore-fathers came from a farre Country; and their King returned againe; and said, he would send such as should rule them. And he hath now sent these Spaniards, saith he. Hereupon he counselled them to yeelde themselues Vassals to the Emperour, which they did at his command, though with many teares on his part and theirs, at this farewell of their liberty. Mutezuma presently gaue to Cortes, in the name of tribute, a great quantity of Gold and other Iewels, which amoun∣ted to sixteene hundred thousand Castlins of Gold, besides Siluer.

Cortes had hitherto a continuall victory in Mexico without any fight: but news was brought [ 40] him of Pamphilo de Naruaes, who was sent with eighty Horse, and some hundreths of Spaniards by Velasques, to interrupt the proceedings of Cortes: who leauing two hundred men in Mexico, with two hundred and fifty other came suddenly in the night, and tooke Naruaes prisoner, and returned to Mexico with Naruaes his Company, now his followers also, where he found his men exceedingly distressed by the Citizens for a murther committed in the great Temple at a so∣lemne Feast, wherein a religious dance they were slaine, for the rich garments and Iewels they ware, by the Spaniards. Cortes came in good time for the reliefe of his men: and Mutezuma caused the Mexicans to bridle their rage, which presently was renewed;* 6.569 and when Mutezu∣ma, was againe by his Guardians, the Spaniards, caused to speake to the people, a blow of a stone on his Temples wounded him, whereof three daies after he died.

[ 50] Cortes had some thousands of the Tlaxoltecas to helpe him, but was driuen to flye from Mexi∣co with all his Spaniards and Indians, which he did closely in the night, but yet an alarme was raised, and the Bridges being broken, much slaughter of his people was made by the Mexicans, and all his treasure in manner lost. They pursued after him also, and had two hundred thousand in the field: when it was Cortes his good hap to slay the Sandardbearer, whereupon the Indians forsooke the field. This battell was fought at Otumpan.

At Tlazcallan, he and his were kindely entertained; they had prepared before 50000. men to goe to Mexico for his helpe, and now they promised him all offices of loyalty and seruice. With their helpe he subdued Tepeacac; and built certaine Brigandines, or Frigats, which were carried many leagues on the backes of those Indians, and there fastned and finished, without which he [ 60] could neuer haue won Mexico.

In Tezcuco certaine Spaniards had beene taken, sacrificed and eaten, which Cortes now reuen∣ged on them. Eight thousand men had carried the loose peeces and timber of this Nauie, guar∣ded with twenty thousand Tlaxcallans, and a thousand Tamemez, or Porters (which carried vi∣ctuals) attending. They calked them with Towe, and for want of Tallow and Oyle, they vsed

Mans Grease, of such as had beene slaine in the Warres. For so the Indians vsed, to take out the Grease of their Sacrifices. Cortes had here nine hundred Spaniards, of which fourescore and six were Horse-men, three cast peeces of Iron, fifteene small peeces of Brasse▪ and a thousand weight of Powder, and 100000. Indian Souldiers on his side. He made a sluce or trench aboue twelue foot broad, and two fathome deepe, halfe a league long, in which 40000. men wrought fifty dayes. He lanched his Vessels, and soone ouercame all the Canoas of the Lake, of which were reckoned in all fiue thousand. The Spaniards brake the Conduits of sweet water, wherewith the City was wont to be serued.

Quabutimoc, now the new King of Mexico, receiuing incouragement from the Deuillish O∣racle, caused to breake downe the Bridges, and to exercise whatsoeuer wit or strength could doe [ 10] in defence of his Citie, sometimes conquering, sometimes (as is doubtfull chance of warre) con∣quered. Cortes had in Tezcuco ordained a new King, a Christian Indian, of the royall bloud, who much assisted him in this siege. The Spaniards being Lords of the Lake, and of the Causeyes, by helpe of their Galliots and Ordinance, they fired a great part of the Citie. One day the Mexi∣cans had gotten some aduantage, and thereupon celebrated a Feast of Victory. The Priests went vp into the Towers of Tlatelulco, their chiefe Temple, and made there perfumes of sweet Gums, in token of victory, and sacrificed forty Spaniards (which they had taken captiues, opening their brests, and plucking out their hearts) sprinkling their bloud in the Ayre; their fellowes looking on, and not able to reuenge it. They slew likewise many Indians, & foure Spaniards of Aluarado's company, whom they ate in the open sight of the Army. The Mexicans danced, drank themselues [ 20] drunke, made bonefires, strucke vp their Drums, and made all solemne expressings of ioy. Dread, Disdaine, and all the Furies that Passion or Compassion could coniure vp, had now filled the Spa∣niards hearts and their Indian partakers: and Cortes, that hitherto had hoped to reserue some part of the Citie, now did the vtmost that Rage aed Reuenge could effect, helped no lesse with∣in with Famine and Pestilence, then with Sword and Fire without. At last Mexico is razed, the Earth and Water sharing betwixt them what the Fire had left, and all which had sometime challenged a lofty inheritance in the Ayre. Their King also was taken; all that mightie State subuerted. And as the Mexicans before had prophesied, That the Tlaxantleca's should againe build the Citie, if conquered, for them; if conquerors, for the Spaniards: It was re-builded with a hundred thousand houses, fairer and stronger then before. The Siege lasted three Moneths, and [ 30] had therein two hundred thousand Indians, nine hundred Spaniards, fourescore Horses, seuenteene Peeces of Ordinance, thirteene Galliots, and sixe thousand Canoas. Fiftie Spaniards were slaine, and sixe Horses: of the Mexicans, a hundred thousand, besides those which died of Hun∣ger and Pestilence.

This was effected Anno 1521. on the thirteenth day of August, which for that cause is kept festiuall euery yeare. For the Description of the Country wherein Mexico is situate. Cortes in his second Narration to the Emperour saith, it is enuironed with hils: (He telleth of some hils also in his iourney, wherein diuers of his people died with cold) in the middest is a plaine of 70. leagues compasse, and therein two Lakes which extend the circuit of 50. leagues; the one salt, which ebbeth and floweth (an argument for Patritius his opinion, that saltnesse is a chiefe cause [ 40] of that vicissitude of ebbing and flowing, in the Ocean) the other fresh: When the water of the Salt Lake increaseth, it runneth l••ke a violent streame into the fresh Lake, which when it decrea∣seth, is repaired againe by the like issue of this into the former.

Nunno di Gusmau b 6.570 hath written his expedition into M••choacan and other Countries of New-Spaine 1530. subduing and taking possession for the Emperour: He found some of them Sodo∣mites, others Sacrificers of mens flesh, and some closly practising this butchery after they had pro∣fessed themselues Christians▪ none of them which durst looke a Horse in the face, but were a∣fraid that that Beast would eate them. The seuerall peoples by him reckoned, would here be te∣dious to name: which we may say of the like made by Godoy and Aluarado c 6.571. Of the Customes of the Auntient Mexicans, one of Cortes his Gentlemen hath written a Treatise d 6.572 extant in Ra∣musius. [ 50] wherein are described their Citie, Temples, Rites of Sacrifice, and the like, as after fol∣loweth out of him and others.

CHAP. IX. Larger Relations of things most remarkeable obserued by the Spaniards at their first comming: Cholollas holies; Popocatepecs ashes. Mutezumas multiforme mag∣nificence and maiestie. Mexican Citie and Temple, with other antiquities gathered out of the Third part of the Historie of Francis Lopez * 6.573 de Gomara.

[ 10]

CHololla is a Citie as Tlaxcallan, and hath but one person who is Gouernour and generall Captaine, chosen by the consent of all the Citizens. It is a Citie of twenty thousand housholds within the wals, and in the suburbs as much more. It sheweth outwards very beautifull, and full of Towers, for there are as many Temples as dayes in the yeare, and euery Temple hath his Tower. Our men counted foure hundred Towers. The men and women are of good disposition, well fauoured, and very wittie. The women are Goldsmiths and also Caruers, the men are war∣riers, and light fellowes, and good Maisters for any purpose: they goe better apparelled then a∣ny other Indians yet seene. They weare for their vpper garment, cloakes like vnto Moriscos, but [ 20] after another sort. All the Countrey round about them is fruitfull and errable ground, well wa∣tered, and so full of people, that there is no waste ground, in respect whereof, there are some poore which begge from doore to doore. The Spaniards had not seene any beggers in that Coun∣trey before they came thither.

Chololla is a Citie of most deuotion and religion in all India, it is called the Sanctuary, or ho∣ly place among the Indians, and thither they trauelled from many places farre distant in Pilgri∣mage, and for this cause there were so many Temples. Their Cathedrall Temple was the best and highest of all the New Spaine, with a hundred and twenty steps vp vnto it, The greatest I∣doll of all their gods was called Quezalcouately, God of the Aire, who was (say they) the foun∣der of their Citie, being a Virgin of holy life, and great penance. He instituted fasting, and [ 30] drawing of bloud out of their eares and tongues, and left a precept, that they should sacrifice but onely Quailes, Doues, and other foule. He neuer ware but one garment of Cotten, which was white, narrow, and long, and vpon that a mantle beset with certaine red crosses. They haue cer∣taine greene Stones which were his, and those they keepe for relickes. One of them is like an Apes head. Here they abode twenty dayes, and in this meane while there came so many to buy and sell, that it was a wonder to see. And one of the things that was to be seene in those faires, was the earthen vessell, which was exceeding curious and fine.

The hill called Popocatepec.

[ 40] THere is a hill eight leagues from Chololla, called Popocatepec, which is to say, a hill of smoake, for many times it casteth out smoake and fire. Cortes sent thither ten Spaniards, with ma∣ny Indians, to carry their victuall, and to guide them in the way. The ascending vp was very troublesome, and full of craggie rocks, They approached so nigh the top, that they heard such a terrible noise which proceeded from thence, that they durst not goe vnto it, for the ground did tremble and shake, and great quantity of ashes which disturbed the way: but yet two of them who seemed to be most hardie, and desirous to see strange things, went vp to the top, be∣cause they would not returne with a sleeuelesse answer, and that they might not be accounted cowards, leauing their fellowes behinde them, proceeding forwards. The Indians said, what meane these men? for as yet neuer mortall man tooke such a iourney in hand.

These two valiant fellowes passed through the Desart of Ashes, and at length came vnder a [ 50] great smoake very thicke, and standing there a while, the darkenesse vanished partly away, and then appeared the vulcan and concauity, which was about halfe a league in compasse, out of the which the ayre came abounding, with a great noise, very shrill, and whistling, in such sort that the whole hill did tremble. It was to be compared vnto an Ouen where Glasse is made. The smoake and heate was so great, that they could not abide it, and of force were constrained to returne by the way that they had ascended: but they were not gone farre, when the vulcan be∣gan to lash out flames of fire, ashes, and imbers, yea and at the last, stones of burning fire: and if they had not chansed to finde a Rocke, where vnder they shadowed themselues, vndoubtedly they had there beene burned. When with good tokens they were returned where they left [ 60] their fellowes, the other Indians kissed their garments as an honour due vnto gods. They presen∣ted vnto them such things as they had, and wondred much at their fact.

The simple Indians thought, that that place was an infernall place,* 6.574 where all such as gouer∣ned not well, or vsed tyrannie in their offices, were punished when they died, and also beleeued, that after their purgation, they passed into glory. This Vulcan is like vnto the Vulcan of Sicilia,

it is high and round, and neuer wanteth snow about it, and is seene afarre off in the night, it la∣sheth out flames of fire. There is neere about this Hill many Cities, and Huexoxinco is one of the nighest. In tenne yeeres space this strange hill of working did expell no vapour or smoke: but in the yeere 1540. it began againe to burne, and with the horrible noyse thereof, the Neighbours that dwelt foure leagues from thence were terrified, for the especiall strange smoakes that then were seene, the like to their Predecessors had not beene seene. The ashes that proceeded from thence came to Huexozinco, Quelaxcopan, Tepiacae, Quauhquecholla, Chololla, and Tlaxcallan, which standeth ten leagues from thence, yea some say, it extended fifteene leagues distant, and burned their hearbes in their Gardens, their Fieldes of Corne, Trees, and cloathes that lay a drying.

He left the way that the Mexicans had perswaded him to come, for it was both euill and [ 10] dangerous, as the Spaniard which went to the Vulcan had seene, he went another plainer way, and neerer. He ascended vp a Hill couered with snow, which was sixe miles of height, where if the 30000. Souldiers had waited for them, they might easily haue taken them, by reason of the great cold: and from the top of that Hill, they discouered the Land of Mexico, and the great Lake, with his Villages round about, which is an exceeding goodly sight. But when Cortes saw that beautifull thing, his joy was without comparison.

There came twelue Lords from Mexico, among whom was Cacama, Nephew to Mutezuma, who was Lord of Tezcuco, a young man of fiue and twentie yeeres of age, whom the Indians did much honour: he was carried vpon their shoulders, and when they set him downe, one went be∣fore with a Broome to sweepe the dust out of his way. In this order hee came to Iztacpalapan. [ 20] Euery two houres came messengers betwixt Cortes and Mutezuma: then came Cuetleuac Lord of that Towne, with the Lord Culhuacan his Kinsman to receiue him, who presented vnto him slaues, garments, and feathers, and to the value of foure thousand Duckets in Gold. Cuetualac receiued all the Spaniards into his owne house, which hath very faire Lodgings all of stone, and Carpenters worke, exceeding well wrought, with high and low roomes, with all kind of ser∣uice: The chambers were hanged with cloth of Cotton very rich, after their manner. There were faire Gardens replenished with many sweet flowres, and sweet trees garnished with Net∣worke, made of Canes, and couered with Roses and other fine hearbes▪ with sundry ponds of sweet water. There was another Garden very beautifull of all sorts of fruits and hearbes, with a great pond walled with lime and stone, and was foure hundred paces square, made with faire [ 30] steps to descend vnto the bottome in many places, and was full of diuers kinds of fishes, and ma∣ny kind of water Birds, which sometimes couered the pond, as Guls, and Mewes, and such like. Iztacpallapan is a Towne of 10000. housholds, and is planted in a Lake of Salt-water, the one halfe of the Towne built on the water, and the other on the Land.

From Iztacpallapan to Mexico is two leagues all vpon a faire Calsey, vpon the which eight Horsemen may passe on ranke,* 6.575 and so directly straight as though it had beene made by line. And whosoeuer hath good eye-sight might discerne the gates of Mexico from thence. Coyoacan is a Towne of sixe thousand dwellers, Vizilopuchtli is of fiue thousand. These Townes are planted in the Lake, and are adorned with many Temples, which haue many faire Towres, that doe [ 40] beautifie exceedingly the Lake. There is great contractation of Salt, which is made there, and from thence is carried abroad to Faires and Markets, which thing was a great rent to Mutezu∣ma. Vpon this Calsey are many drawne Bridges built vpon faire arches, that the water passeth thorow.

Cortes passed this Calsey with 400. Spaniards, and 6000. Indians his friends: their passage was with much adoe, by reason of the great multitude of Indians which came to see him, and com∣ming neere the Citie, there adjoyned another Calsey with a broader passage, where standeth a strong Bulwarke of stone, of the heigth of two fathome with two Towres on each side, and two gates very strong. Here at this Fort came three thousand Courtiers and Citizens to receiue him, and euery of them touched the ground with his right hand and kissed it, and passed forwards in [ 50] the order as they came. These salutations endured an houre and more. From the Bulwarke the Calsey lyeth directly, and before the entrance into the street there is another draw Bridge made of timber ten paces broad, vnder the which the water passeth too and fro. At this Bridge came Mutezuma to receiue Cortes vnder a Canopie of greene feathers and gold,* 6.576 with much Argentery hanging thereat, which Canopie foure Noble-men did carrie. And the two Princes Cuetlauac and Cacama his Nephewes, did leade him by each arme: all three were rich apparelled and all of one fashion, except Mutezuma, which had a paire of shooes of gold beset with precious Stones, and the soles were tyed to the vpper part with latchets, as is painted of the Antikes. His Gentlemen went by two and two, layng downe and taking vp Mantles and Couerle••s vpon the ground, because his feet should not touch the same: then followed him as in Procession, 200. [ 60] Noblemen bare-footed, with garments of a richer Liuery then the first three thousand. Mute∣zuma came in the middest of the street, and the others came behind him as nigh the wall as they might, their faces towards the ground, for it was a great offence to looke him in the face. Cortes alighted from his Horse, and according to our vse went to embrace him, but the Princes who led

him by the armes, would not suffer him to come so nigh, for they held it for sinne to touch him, but yet saluted each one the other.

Cortes put about Mutezuma his necke a coller of Margarites, Diamonds, and other stones all of glasse. Mutezuma receiued it thankfully, and went before with one of the Princes his Ne∣phewes, and commanded the other to leade Cortes by the hand, next after him in the midst of the street: and proceeding forward in this order, then came the Gentlemen in the richest Liue∣ry to welcome him, one by one, touching the ground with their hands, and after returned to their standing. And if the Citizens had come as they requested, all that day would not haue serued for salutations. The coller of glasse pleased well Mutezuma, and because hee would not [ 10] take without giuing a better thing▪ as a great Prince, hee commanded to be brought two collers of red Prawnes, which are there much esteemed,* 6.577 and at euery one of them hanged eight Shrimps of gold, of excellent workmanship, and of a finger length euery one, he put these collers with his owne hands about Cortes his necke, the which was esteemed a most great fauour, yea and the Indians maruelled at it. At this time they were come to the street end, which was almost a mile long, broad, streight, and very faire, and full of houses on each side, in whose doores, win∣dowes and tops, was such a multitude of Indians to behold the strangers, that I know not who wondred most, our men to see such a number of them, or else they to see our men, their Ordnance and Horses, a thing so strange vnto them. They were brought vnto a great Court or house of I∣dols, which was the Lodging Axaiaca, at the doore whereof, Mutezuma tooke Cortes by the [ 20] hand, and brought him into a faire hall, and placed him vpon a rich Carpet, saying vnto him, Sir, now are you in your owne house, eate and take your rest and pleasure, for I will shortly come and visit you againe. Such (as you heare) was the receiuing of Hernando Cortes by Mutezuma a most mightie King, into his great and famous Citie of Mexico, the eight day of Nouember, 1519.

The house where the Spaniards were lodged was great and large,* 6.578 with many faire chambers sufficient for them all: it was neate, cleane matted, and hanged with Cloth of Cotton, and Feathers of many colours, pleasant to behold. When Mutezuma was departed from Cortes, hee beganne to set his house in order and placed the Ordnance at his doore, and hauing all his things in good sort, he went to a sumptuous Dinner that was prepared for him. Assoone as Mu∣tezuma had made an end of his Dinner, hearing that the Strangers were risen from the Table, [ 30] and reposed a while, then came hee to Cortes, saluting him, and sate downe by him. He gaue vnto him diuers Iewels of Gold Plate, Feathers, and many Garments of Cotton, both rich, well wouen, and wrought of strange colours, a thing comely, that did manifest his great∣nesse, and also confirme their imagination. This gift was deliuered honourably, and then be∣ganne his talke as followeth: Lords and Gentlemen, I doe much reioyce to haue in my house such valiant men as yee are, for to vse you with courtesie, and intreate you with honour, according to your desert and my estate. And where heretofore I desired that you should not come hither, the onely cause was, my people had a great feare to see you, for your gesture and grimme beards did terrifie them, yea, they reported that yee had such beasts as swallowed men, and that your com∣ming was from Heauen, bringing with you Lightning▪ Thunder, and Thunder-bolts, wherewith [ 40] you made the Earth to tremble and to shake, and that yee slue therewith whom yee pleased. But now I doe see and know that you are mortall men, and that yee are quiet and hurt no man: also I haue seene your Horses, which are but your Seruants, and your Gunnes like vnto shooting Trunkes. I doe now hold all for Fables and Lyes which haue beene reported of you, and I doe also accept you for my meere Kinsman. My Father told mee that hee had heard his forefathers say, of whom I doe dis∣cend, that they held opinion how they were not Naturals of this Land, but come hither by chance, in companie of a mightie Lord, who after a while that hee had abode here, they returned to their naturall soyle: After many yeeres expired, they cam•• againe for those whom they had left heere behind them,* 6.579 but they would not goe with them, because they had here inhabited, and had Wiues and Children, and great gouernment in the Land. Now these mightie Lords seeing that they were so stubborne, and would not returne with them, departed from them sore displeased, saying, that hee would send [ 50] his Children that should both rule and gouerne them, in Iustice, Peace, and ancient Religion. And for this consideration, wee haue alwayes suspected and beleeued, that such a people should come to rule and gouerne vs, and considering from whence you come, I doe thinke that you are they whom wee looked for, and the notice which the great Emperour Charles had for vs, who hath now sent you hither. Therefore Lord and Captaine, bee well assured, that wee will obey you, if there bee no feyned or deceitfull matter in your dealings, and will also diuide with you and yours all that we haue. And although this which I haue said were not onely for your vertue, fame, and deeds of valiant Gentle∣men, I would yet doe it for your worthinesse in the battailes of Tauasco, Teocazinco, and Chollolla, being so few, to ouercome so many.

[ 60] Now againe, if yee imagine that I am a God, and the walls and rooffes of my houses, and all my ves∣sell of seruice, to be of pure Gold, as the men of Zempoallan, Tlaxcallan, and Huexozinco, haue infor∣med you, it is not so, and I iudge you to bee so wise, that you giue no credit to such Fables. You shall also note, that through your comming hither, many of my subiects haue rebelled, and are become my

mortall enemies, but yet I purpose to breake their wings. Come feele you my bodie, I am of flesh and bone, a mortall man as other are, and no God, although as a King I doe esteeme my selfe, of grea∣ter dignitie and preheminence then others. My houses you doe also see, which are of timber and earth, and the principallest of Masons worke, therefore now you doe both know and see what odious lyers those Tale-bearers were. But troth it is, that Gold Plate, Feathers, Armour, Iewels, and other Riches. I haue in the Treasury of my Forefathers a long time preserued, as the vse of Kings is, all the which you and yours shall enioy at all times. And now it may please you to take your rest, for I know that you are weary of your iourney. Cortes with ioyfull countenance humbled himselfe, seeing some teares fall from Mutezuma his eyes, saying vnto him, vpon the trust I haue had in your clemencie, I insisted to come both to see, and talke with your Highnesse, and now I know that all are lyes which [ 10] hath beene told mee. The like your Highnesse hath heard reported of vs, assure your selfe, that the Emperour King of Spaine is your naturall Lord, whom yee haue expected, hee is the onely heire from whence your Linage doth proceed, and as touching the offer of your Highnesse treasure, I do most heartily thanke you.

After all this communication, Mutezuma demanded whether the bearded men which came with him; were either his vassals, or his slaues, because hee would entertayne each one accor∣ding to his estate.* 6.580 Cortes answered, that they were all his brethren, friends, and fellowes, ex∣cept some that were his seruants.

Then he departed, and went home to his Palace, and there informed himselfe particularly who were Gentlemen, and who were not, and according thereunto, sent euery one particular [ 20] gift or present. To the Gentlemen he sent his reward by his Comptroller, and to the Mariners and other Seruitors, by a Page of his houshold.

Mutezuma was a man of a small stature, and leane, his colour tawnie as all the Indians are.* 6.581 Hee had long haire on his head, sixe little haires vpon him, as though they had beene put in with a Bodkin. His thinne beard was blacke. Hee was a man of a faire condition, and a doer of Iustice, well spoken, graue and wise, beloued and feared among his subjects. Mu∣tezuma doth signifie Sadnesse.

* 6.582To the proper names of Kings and Lords, they doe adde this syllable Cin, which is for courte∣sie and dignitie, as we vse Lord. The Turke vseth Zultan. The Moore or Barbarian calleth his Lord Mulley,* 6.583 and so the Indians say Mutezumazin, His people had him in such reuerence, [ 30] that hee permitted none to sit in his sight, nor yet in his presence to weare shooes, nor looke him in the face, except very few Princes. Hee was glad of the conuersation of the Spaniards, and would not suffer them to stand on foote, for the great estimation hee had of them, and if hee liked any of the Spaniards garments, hee would exchange his apparell for theirs. He changed his owne apparell foure times euery day, and hee neuer clothed himselfe againe with the Garments which hee had once worne,* 6.584 but all such were kept in his Guard∣robe, for to giue in Presents to his Seruants and Ambassadours, and vnto valiant Soul∣diers which had taken any enemy Prisoner, and that was esteemed a great reward, and a title of priuiledge. The costly Mantles whereof had beene diuers sent to Cortes, were of the same Guardrobe.

* 6.585Mutezuma went alwayes very neate and fine in his attyre. Hee bathed him in his Hot-house [ 40] foure times euery day. Hee went seldome out of his Chamber, but when hee went to his meate. Hee eate alwayes alone, but solemnely, and with great abundance. His Table was a Pillow, or else a couple of coloured Skinnes. His Chaire was a foure-footed stoole made of one piece, and hollow in the middest, well wrought and painted. His Table-clothes, Napkins, and Towels, were made of Cotton-wooll, very white and new, for hee was neuer serued but once with that Naperie. Foure hundred Pages brought in his meate, all sonnes of great Lords, and placed it vpon a Table in his great Hall.* 6.586 The meate being brought in, then came Mutezuma to behold the Dishes, and appointed those Dishes that liked him best, and Chafing-dishes were prepared to keepe that meate warme, and seldome would he eate of any other Dish, except the [ 50] Lord Steward or Comptroller should highly commend any other Dish.

Before hee sate downe, came twentie of his Wiues of the fairest and best esteemed, or else those that serued weekly by turne,* 6.587 brought in the Bason and Ewre, with great hum∣blenesse. This done, hee sate him downe, and then came the Lord Steward, and drew a woodden Nette before him, because none should come nigh his Table. And this Noble man alone placed the Dishes, and also tooke them away, for the Pages who brought in the meate, came not neere the Table, nor yet spake any worde, nor no man else.

While the Lord Mutezuma was at his meate, except some Ieaster, they all serued him bare-footed.* 6.588 There assisted alwayes somewhat a farre off, sixe ancient and Noblemen, vnto [ 60] whom he vsed to giue of the Dish that best liked him, who receiued the same at his hand with great reuerence, and eate it incontinent, without looking in his face, which was the grea∣test humilitie that they could vse before him.* 6.589 Hee had musicke of Fiddle, Flute, and of a

Snaile-shell, and a Cauldron couered with a skinne, and such other strange Instruments. They had very euill voyces to sing. Alwayes at dinner time he had Dwarfes, crooke-backes, and other deformed counterfeits, all for maiestie and to laugh at, who had their meate in the Hall among the Iesters and Idiots,* 6.590 which were fed with part of the meate that came from Mutezuma his table, all the rest of the meate was giuen to three thousand of the guard, who attended ordi∣narily in the yard or Court, and therefore they say that there was brought for his Table three thousand dishes, and as many pots of wine, such as they vse, and that continually the Buttrey and Pantrey stood open, which was a wonder to see what was in them. The platters, dishes, and cups, were all of earth, whereof the King was serued but once, and so from meale to meale new. He had likewise his seruice of Gold and Plate very rich, but hee vsed not to bee serued with it [ 10] (they say) because hee would not bee serued twice therewith, the which hee thought a base thing.* 6.591

Some affirme, that young children were slaine and dressed in diuers kinde of dishes for Mute∣zuma his table, but it was not so, onely of mans flesh sacrificed he fed now and then.* 6.592 The table being taken vp, then came againe the Gentlewomen to bring water for his hands, with the like reuerence as they vsed at the first, and then went they to dinner with the other wiues, so that then the Gentlemen and Pages waited as their course fell.

When his table was taken vp, and his Seruitors gone to meate, Mutezuma sate still: then came in the suiters that had any affaires to deale with him, bare-footed, for all the persons did [ 20] vse that reuerence, except some Princes his Kinsmen, as the Lords of Tescuco, and Tlacopan, and a few others: and beeing cold weather,* 6.593 they vsed to weare olde ragged clothes vpon their rich garments. All suiters vsed to make three or foure courtesies, not looking toward his face, and speaking vnto him their heads dowwards, and in that order retyred backe againe. Mutezuma answered his suiters very grauely, with low voyce, and in few words, and not to all suiters, for others his Secretaries or Counsellers that stood by, answered for him, and hauing their answere, they returned backwards, not turning their tailes to the Prince. After these businesses done, he vsed some recreation, hearing Iesters or Songs, wherein he delighted much,* 6.594 or else to looke vpon the Players, who play with their feet, as we doe with our hands. These haue a cudgell like vn∣to a Pastlers rowler, which they tosse high and low as it were a ball in the Ayre, strange to be∣hold. [ 30] They vse other Playes to passe the time, in such an order,* 6.595 that it seemed maruellous to the lookers on. Cortes brought into Spaine some of these Players. Also they vse Matachines, in such sort they doe play, that there stand each vpon other shoulders, and hee that standeth highest, sheweth many feates. Sometime Mutezuma did behold the Players, who played at a game cal∣led Pacoliztli, which is much like our Tables, and they play with beanes, squared like Dice, which they call Patolli, and throw them out of both their hands vpon a matte, or else vpon the ground, where are made certain strikes, vpon which they set downe the chance that is throwne: and at this game they play all that they haue, and many times they value their owne bodies, and play that into captiuitie, and to remayne a slaue, I meane, such as are common Gamesters of small estate.

[ 40] Sometimes Mutezuma went to the Tennis Court. Their ball is celled Villamaliztli, and is made of the gumme which commeth from a tree called Vlli.* 6.596 This tree groweth in a hot Coun∣trey. The gumme being kneaded together, and so made round, is as blacke as pitch, and some∣what heauie, and very hard for the hand, but yet good and light to rebound, and better then our wind-bals. They play not at Chases, but at Bandy, or at Check, that is, if the ball touch the wall it looseth. They may strike the ball with any part of their body, but there is alwayes a penaltie if they onely strike not with the buttocke or side, which is the finest play: whereof they vse a skinne vpon each buttocke. They play so many to so many for a packe of Mantles, or according to the abilitie of the Players. Also they play for gold and feathers, and sometime for their owne bodies, as they vse at Patolli, which is there permitted and lawfull. The Tennis Court is called Tlachco, and is a Hall long and narrow, but wider vpwards, then downewards, [ 50] and higher on the sides then at the ends, which is an industry for their play. The house is alwayes white and smooth in the side walles they haue certaine stones like vnto Milstones, with a little hole in the middest that passeth through the stone, the hole is so small, that scarcely the ball may passe through, but he that chanceth to strike the ball into the hole, which seldometh happeneth, winneth the game, and by an ancient Law and custome among Tennis Players, he ought to haue the Cloakes of all those that stand and behold the play, on that side that the ball went in, and in some Tennis Courts, the halfe of the garments of them that stand looking on. The Winner is then bound to make certaine Sacrifice to the God of the Tennis play, and to the stone where the ball entred. The beholders of the play would say, that such a Winner should be a Thiefe and an Adulterer, or else that he should die quickly.

[ 60] They vsed in the Temple of the Tennis play, two Images of the God of the Ball,* 6.597 which stood vpon the two lower walles. The Sacrifice was celebrated at mid-night, with many Ceremonies and Witch-crafts, and Songs for that purpose. Then came a Priest from the Cathedrall Church, with other Religious persons to blesse the Sacrifice, saying certain deuillish Prayers, and throw∣ing

the ball foure times in the Tennis Court. In this order was the Tennis play consecrated, and after this consecration it was lawfull to play, or else not, for this diligence was first to bee done when any Tennis Court or play was newly built. The owner of the Tennis Court also would neuer suffer any to play, vntill he had first offered something to the Idoll, their Superstition was so great.

* 6.598Mutezuma had many houses as well in Mexico as without, for his recreation and pleasure, as also for his ordinary dwelling. To write of all it should bee tedious, but where his continuall abiding was,* 6.599 he named Tepac, that is to say, Palace. And that Palace had twentie doores or gates which had their out-comming into the common streets. It hath three Courts, and in the one standeth a faire Fountaine, many Hals, and a hundred Chambers of twentie three, and thirtie foot [ 10] long, an hundred Bathes and Hot-houses: and although the building was without nayles, yet very good workmanship. The walles were made of Masons worke, and wrought of Mar∣ble, Iaspe, and other blacke stone, with veines of red, like vnto Rubies and other Stones, which glistered very faire: the roofes were wrought of Timber, and curiously carued: the Timber was Cedar, Cypresse, and Pine-tree: the Chambers were painted and hung with Cloth of Cotton, and Cloth made of Conies haire and feathers. The beds were poore and of no value, for they were nothing but Mantles laid vpon Mats, or vpon Hay, or else Mats alone: few men lay with in those Houses.

* 6.600There were a thousand women, and some affirme that there were three thousand, accounting Gentlewomen, Seruants and Slaues: the most were Noblemens Daughters, Mutezuma tooke of [ 20] them for his selfe, those that liked him best, and the others he gaue in mariage to Gentlemen his Seruants. The saying was, that hee had at one time a hundred and fiftie women his wiues with childe, who through the perswasion of the Deuill, tooke Medicines to cast their creatures, be∣cause they knew that they should not inherit the State: these his wiues, had many old women for their Guard, for no man was permitted to looke vpon them.

* 6.601The shield of Armes that is set in his Palace, and likewise carried to the Warres, is an Eagle soaring vpon a Tigre his tallons, bent as taking prey. Some thinke it is a Gryffon and not an Eagle. The Griffons in time past, say they, did cause the Vale of Auacatlan to bee dispeopled, for they were great deuourers of men, and that their abiding was in the Mountaines of Teoacan: they approue that these Mountaines were called Cuitlachtepelt, of Cuitlachtli, which is a Gryffon, [ 30] bigger then a Lion: but the Spaniards did neuer see any of them. The Indians by their old Pi∣ctures doe paint those Gryffons to haue a kind of haire and no feathers, and also affirme, that with their tallons and teeth they breake mens bones. They haue the courage of a Lion, and the countenance of an Eagle: they paint him with foure feet, and teeth, with a kinde of downe, more like wooll then feathers, with his beake, tallons, and wings. There are also other Lords that giue the Gryffon in their Armes, flying with a heart in his tallons.

* 6.602Mutezuma had another house, with very good lodgings and faire galleries, built vpon Pillars of Iaspe which extendeth toward a goodly Garden, in the which there are ten ponds or moe, some of salt-water for Sea-fowle, and other some of fresh water for Riuer-fowle, and Lake-fowle, which ponds are deuised with sluces to emptie and to fill at their pleasure, for the clean∣nesse [ 40] of the feathers. There is such a number of Fowle that scarcely the ponds may hold them, and of such diuers kindes both in feathers and making, as sure it was an admiration for the Spa∣niards to behold, for the most of them they knew not, nor yet had at any time seene the like. And to euery kind of Fowle they gaue such bayte as they were wont to feede of in the Fields or Riuers. There did belong to that house three hundred persons of seruice some were to clense the ponds: other some did fish for baite: other some serued them with meate: other did loose them and trimme their feathers: others had care to looke to their Egges: others to set them abrood: others cured them when they were sicke: and the principallest Of∣fice was to plucke the Feathers: for of them was made rich Mantles, Tapissary, Tar∣gets, tuffes of Feathers, and many other things wrought with Gold and Siluer: a most per∣fit [ 50] worke.

* 6.603There is another House with large quarters and lodgings, which is called a House for Fowle, not because there are more then in the other, but because they bee bigger and to hawke with all, and are Fowle of rapine, wherefore they are esteemed as more nobler then all the others.

There are in this House many high Hals, in the which are kept men, women and children: in some of them are kept such as are borne white of colour:* 6.604 which doth very seldome happen: in other some are Dwarfes, Crooked-backes, Burstenmen, Counterfeites, and monstrous Per∣sons, in great number: they say, that they vsed to deforme them when they were Chil∣dren, to set forth the Kings greatnesse: euery of these persons were in seuerall Halles by [ 60] themselues.

* 6.605In the lower Halles were great Cages made of timber: in some of them were Lions, in o∣ther Tigres, in other Ounces, in others Wolues: in conclusion, there was no foure-footed beast that wanted there, onely to the effect that the mightie Mutezuma might say that hee had such

things in his house. They were fed with their ordinary, as Ginea cockes, Deere, Dogges, and such like.

There was also in other Hals great earthen vessels, some with earth, and some with wa∣ter, wherein were Snakes, as grosse as a mans thigh, Vipers, Crocodiles,* 6.606 which they call Cay∣manes, or Lizarts of twenty foote long, with such Scales and head as a Dragon hath: Also other little Lizarts, and other venemous Beasts and Serpents as well of the water as of the land, a terrible sight for the lookers on.

There were also other Cages for foule of rapine of all sorts, as Hawkes, Kites, Boyters,* 6.607 and at the least nine or ten kinde of Haukes. This house of foule had of daily allowance fiue hundred [ 10] Gynea cockes, and three hundred men of seruice, besides the Falconers and Hunters, which are infinite. There were many other sorts of Foules that our men knew not, which seemed by their beake and talents good to Hauke withall.

To the Snakes and other venemous Beasts they gaue the bloud of men sacrificed, to feede them, and some say, they gaue vnto them mans flesh, which the great Lizarts doe eate ve∣ry well. The Spaniards saw the floore couered with bloud like a iellie in a Slaughter-house, it stunke horribly. It was strange to see the Officers in this House, how euery one was oc∣cupied. Our men tooke great pleasure in beholding such strange things, but they could not away with the roaring of the Lyons, the fearefull hissing of the Snakes and Adders, the dolefull howling and barking of the Wolues, the sorrowfull yelling of the Ownzes [ 20] and Tigres, when they would haue meate. Most certaine, in the night season it seemed a Dungeon of Hell, and a dwelling place of the Deuill, and euen so it was indeede,* 6.608 for neere at hand was a Hall of a hundred and fiftie foote long, and thirty foote broad, where was a Chappell with the Roofe of Siluer and Gold in leafe Wainescotted, and decked with great store of Pearle and Stone, as Agattes, Cornerines, Emeralds, Rubies, and diuers other sorts, and this was the Oratory where Mutezuma prayed in the night season, and in that Chappell the Deuill did appeare vnto him, and gaue him answere according to his prayers.

He had other houses like vnto Barnes, onely for the feathers of foules,* 6.609 and for mantels which proceeded of his rents and tributes, a thing much to be seene: vpon the doores was set his armes, [ 30] which was a Conie. Here dwelled the chiefe Officers of his house, as Treasurer, Controller, Re∣ceiuers and other officers appertaining to the Kings reuenews.* 6.610 Mutezuma had no house wherein was not an Oratorie for the Deuill, whom they worshipped for the Iewels there. And therefore those houses were great and large.

Mutezuma had some houses of Armor, vpon the doores wherof stood a Bowe and Arrows. In these houses was great store of all kinde of Munition which they vse in their wars: as Bowes,* 6.611 Arrowes, Slings, Launces, Darts, Clubbes, Swords and Bucklers, and gallant Targets more trim then strong, Skuls and Splints, but not manie, and all made of wood, gilt or couered with lea∣ther. The wood whereof they make their Armour and Targets, is verie hard and strong,* 6.612 for they vse to toast it at the fire, and at their Arrow ends they enclose a little peece of Flint stone, [ 40] or a peece of a Fish bone called Libisa, and that is venemous, for if any be hurt therewith and the head remaine in the wound, it so festereth, that it is almost incurable.

Their Swords are of wood, and the edge thereof is of flint stone, enclosed or ioyned into a staffe, with a certaine kinde of glew which is made of a roote called Zacolt, and Teuxalli,* 6.613 which is a kinde of strong sand, whereof they make a mixture, and after kneade it with bloud of Bats or Rearemice, and other Foule, which doth glew maruellous strong, and lightly neuer vnclea∣ueth: of this stuffe, they make nailes, pearcers, and augers, wherewith they bore Timber and stone: with their Swords they cut Speares, yea and a Horse necke at a blow, and made dents in∣to Iron, which seemed a thing vnpossible and incredible. In the Citie no man may weare wea∣pon, but onely in warres, hunting, and among the Kings Guard.

[ 50] Besides the foresaid houses, he had manie others for his onely recreation and pastime,* 6.614 with ex∣cellent faire Gardens of medicinall Hearbes, sweete Flowers, and Trees of delectable sauour. In that Garden were a thousand personages, made and wrought artificially of leaues and flow∣ers. Mutezuma would not permit that in this Garden should be any kinde of pot Hearbes,* 6.615 or things to be sold, saying, that it did not appertaine to Kings to haue things of profit, among their delights and pleasures, for such things (said he) did appertaine to Merchants. Yet not∣withstanding he had Orchards with manie and sundrie fruites, but they stood farre from the Citie, and whither seldome times he went:* 6.616 he had likewise out of Mexico pleasant houses in Woods and Forrests, of great compasse, enuironed with water, in the which he had Fountaines, Riuers, Ponds with fish, Warrens of Conies, Rockes and couert where were Harts, Bucks, Hares, [ 60] Foxes, Wolues, and such like, with wildernesse for euerie sort. To these places the Lords of Mexico vsed to goe and sport themselues, such and so many were the houses of Mutezuma, wherein few Kings were equall with him.

He had daily attending vpon him in his priuate Guard, sixe hundred Noblemen and Gentle∣men,

and each of them three or foure seruants,* 6.617 and some had twentie seruants or moe, according to his estate: and in this manner he had three thousand men attendant in his Court, and some affirme more, all the which were fed in his house of the meate that came from his table. The seruing men alwaies abode below in the Court all the day, and went not from thence till after Supper.

It is to be thought that his Guard was the greater, because the strangers were there, although in effect of truth it is most certaine,* 6.618 that all the Lords that are vnder the Mexicall Empire (as they say) are thirtie persons of high estate, who are able to make each of them a hundred thou∣sand men. There are three thousand Lords of Townes, who haue many vassals. These Noble∣men did abide in Mexico certaine times of the yeare,* 6.619 in the Court of Mutezuma, and could not depart from thence without especiall licence of the Emperour, leauing each of them a sonne [ 10] or brother behinde them for securitie of rebellion, and for this cause they had generally houses in the Citie: such and so great was the Court of Mutezuma.

* 6.620There is not in all the Dominions of Mutezuma any subiect that paieth not tribute vnto him. The Noblemen pay their tribute in personall seruice. The Husbandmen called Maceualtin, with body and goods. In this sort they are either Tenants, or else heires to their possessions. Those which are heires, doe pay one third part of all their fruite and commoditie that they doe reape or bring vp, as Dogges, Hennes, Foule, Conies, Gold, Siluer, Stones, Salt, Waxe, Honie, Mantels, Feathers, Cotten, and a certaine fruite called Cacao, that serueth for money, and also to eate. Also all kinde of Graine, and Garden Hearbes, and Fruites, whereof they doe main∣taine [ 20] themselues.

The Tenants doe pay monethly, or yearely, as they can agree, and because their tribute is great, they are called slaues, for when they may haue licence to eate Egges, they thinke it a great fauour. It was reported that they were taxed what they should eate, and all the residue was taken from them.* 6.621 They went verie poorely cloathed, yea and the most of their treasure was an earthen Pot, wherein they boiled their Hearbes, a couple of Milstones to grinde their Corne, and a Mat to lye vpon. They did not onely paie this Rent, and Tribute, but also serued with their bodies at all times when the great King should command. They were in such great sub∣iection to their Prince, that they durst not speake one word although their daughters should be taken from them to be vsed at pleasure. All the aforesaid rents they brought to Mexico vpon their backes, and in Boates, I meane so much as was necessarie for the prouision of the House and [ 30] Court of Mutezuma, all the rest was spent among Souldiers, and bartred for Gold, Plate, Preci∣ous stones, and other rich Iewels, esteemed of Princes, all the which was brought to the Treasu∣rie. In Mexico was large and great Barnes and Houses to receiue and keepe the Corne for proui∣sion of the Citie,* 6.622 with Officers, and vnderofficers, who did receiue the same, and kept account thereof in Bookes of painted figures.

And in euery Towne was a Receiuer, who bare in his hand a rod or a bush of Feathers, and those gaue vp their accounts in Mexico.* 6.623 If any such had beene taken with deceit and falshood, death was his reward, yea and his kinred punished with penalties, as of a linage of a traitour to his Prince. The Husbandmen, if they paid not well their Tribute, were apprehended for the [ 40] same, and if they were found to be poore through sicknesse and infirmitie, then they were borne withall, but if they were found to be lazie and sloathfull, they should be vsed accordingly: but in conclusion, if they paied it not at a day appointed, then they should be sold for slaues to pay their debt, or else be sacrificed.

There were many other Prouinces, which paid a certaine portion, and reknowledged seruice, but this Tribute was more of honour then profit. In this sort Mutezuma had more then suffiti∣ent to prouide his house and wars, and to heape vp great store in his Treasury. Moreouer, he spent nothing in the building of his houses, for of long time he had certaine Townes that paid no other Tribute,* 6.624 but onely to worke and repaire continually his Houses at their owne proper cost, and paid all kinde of workemen carrying vpon their backes, or drawing in sleds, Stone, Lime, [ 50] Timber, Water, and all other necessaries for the worke. Likewise they were bound to prouide all the firewood that should be spent in the Court, which was a great thing, and did amount to two hundred and thirty weight a day, which was fiue hundred mens burdens, and some dayes in the winter much more. And for the Kings Chimneys they brought the barke of Oake trees, which wes best esteemed for the light thereof, for they were great Sorcerers. Mu∣tezuma had one hundred Cities with their Prouinces, of whom he receiued Rents, Tributes, and V••ssalage, where he maintained Garrison of Souldiers, and had Treasurers in each of them.

His dominion did extend from the North sea to the South sea, and six hundred miles in lon∣gitude within the maine Land, although in very deede there were some Townes, as Tlaxcal∣lon, [ 60] Mechuacan, Panuco, and Teocantepec, which were his enemies, and paid him neither Tribute nor Seruice: but yet the Ransome was much, when any of them was taken. Also there were o••her Kings and Noblemen, as of Texcuto, and Tlacopan, which were not in subiection vn∣to

him, but onely in homage and obedience, for they were of his owne linage, vnto whom Mu∣tezuma married his Daughters.

Description of Mexico as it flourished in those times.

MExico at the time when Cortes entred, was a Citie of sixtie thousand houses. The Kings house, and o••her Noblemens houses were great, large, and beautifull, the other were small and meane, without either doores or windowes: and although they were small, yet there dwel∣leth in some of them, two, three, yea and ten persons, by reason whereof, the Citie was wonder∣fully [ 10] replenished with people.

This Citie is built vpon the water, euen in the same order as Venice is. All the body of the Citie standeth in a great large Lake of water.* 6.625 There are three sorts of streetes very broad and faire, the one sort are onely water, with many Bridges: another sort of onely earth: and the third of earth and water: that is to say, the one halfe earth to walke vpon, and the other halfe for Boates to bring prouision of all sorts. These streetes are kept alwayes cleane, and the most part of the houses haue two doores, the one towards the Cawsey, and the other towards the water, at the which they take Boate to goe where they list. And although this Citie is founded vpon water, yet the same water is not good to drinke, whereof there is brought by conduit wa∣ter from a place called Capultepec, three miles distant from the Citie, which springeth out of a [ 20] little hill, at the foote whereof standeth two Statues or couered Images wrought in stone, with their Targets and Lances, the one is of Mutezuma, and the other of Axaiaca his Father. The water is brought from thence in two Pipes or Canals in great quantity, and when the one is foule, then all the water is conueied into the other, till the first be made cleane. From this Fountaine all the whole Citie is prouided, so that they goe selling the same water from streete to streete in little Boates, and doe pay a certaine tribute for the same.

This Citie is diuided into two streetes, the one was called Tlatelulco, that is to say, a little Iland, and the other Mexico, where Mutezuma his dwelling and Court was, and is to be inter∣preted a Spring. This streete is the fairest and most principall, and because of the Kings Pallace there, the Citie was named Mexico, although the old and first name of the Citie was Tenuch∣titlan, [ 30] which doth signifie Fruite out of stone, for the name is compounded of Tetl, which is, Stone, and Nuchtl••, which is a Fruite in Cuba and Hispaniola called Tunas; the Tree (or to speake properly, the Thistle) that beareth this fruite, is named Nopal,* 6.626 and is nothing almost but leaues of a footebroad and round, and three inches thicke, some more, and some lesse, according to the growth, full of thornes which are venemous: the leafe is greene, and the thorne or pricke rus∣set. After that is planted, it encreaseth, growing leafe vnto leafe, and the foote thereof com∣meth to be as the body of a tree, and one leafe doth onely produce another at the point, but at the sides of the same leaues proceede other leaues. In some Prouinces where water is scant, they vse to drinke the iuice of these leaues. The fruite thereof called Nuchtli, is like vnto Figges, and euen so hath his little kernels or graines within, but they are somewhat larger, and crowned [ 40] like vnto a Medler. There are of them of sundry colours, some are greene without, and Car∣nationlike within, which haue a good taste. Others are yellow, and others white, and some speckled: the best sort are the white: it is a fruite that will last long. Some of them haue the taste of Peares, and othersome of Grapes: it is a cold and a fresh fruite, and best esteemed in the heate of Summer. The Spaniards doe more esteeme them then the Indians. The more the ground is laboured where they grow, the fruite is so much the better. There is yet another kinde of this fruite red, and that is nothing esteemed, although his taste is not euill, but because it doth co∣lour and dye the eaters mouth, lippes, and apparell, yea, and maketh his vrine looke like pure bloud. Many Spaniards at their first comming into India, and eating this Fruite, were in a maze, and at their wits end, thinking that all the blood in their bodies came out in vrine: yea and many Phisitions at their first comming were of the same beliefe: for it hath happened, when [ 50] they haue bin sent for vnto such as haue eaten this fruite, they not knowing the cause, and be∣holding the vrine, by and by they ministred medicine to stanch the bloud: a thing ridiculous, to see the Phisitians so deceiued. Of this fruite Nuchtli and Tetl, which is a Stone, is compoun∣ded Tenuchtlitan. When this City was begun to be founded, it was placed neere vnto a great Stone that stood in the middest of the Lake, at the foote whereof grew one of these Nopal trees, and therefore Mexico giueth for armes and deuise the foot of a Nopal tree springing from a stone, according to the Cities name.

Mexico is as much to say, as a Spring or Fountaine, according to the property of the vowell and speech. Others doe affirme, that Mexico hath his name of a more ancient time,* 6.627 whose first [ 60] Founders were called Mexiti, for vnto this day the Indian dwellers in one streete of this City are called of Mexico. The Mexiti tooke name of thir principallest Idoll called Mexitli, who was in as great veneration as Vitzilopuchtli, god of the warre. Mexico is enuironed with sweet water, and hath three wayes to come vnto it by cawsie, the one is from the West, and that cawsie is a mile and a halfe long. Another from the North, and containeth three miles in length. Eastward

the Citie hath no entrie. But Southward the Cawsey is sixe miles long, which was the way that Cortez entred into the Citie.* 6.628 The Lake that Mexico is planted in, although it seemteh one, yet it is two, for the one is of water saltish, bitter, and pestiferous, and no kinde of fish liueth in it. And the other water is wholesome, good, and sweet, and bringeth forth small fish. The salt wa∣ter ebbeth and floweth,* 6.629 according to the winde that bloweth. The sweet water standeth higher, so that the good water falleth into the euill, and reuerteth not backward, as some hold opinion. The salt Lake contayneth fifteene miles in breadth, and fifteene in length, and more then fiue and fortie in circuit; and the Lake of sweet water contayneth euen as much, in such sort, that the whole Lake contayneth more then thirtie leagues, and hath about fiftie townes situated round about it, many of which townes doe contayne fiue thousand housholds, and some ten thou∣sand, yea and one towne called Tezcuco, is as bigge as Mexico. All this Lake of water springeth [ 10] out of a Mountaine that standeth within sight of Mexico. The cause that the one part of the Lake is brackish or saltish, is, that the bottome or ground is all salt, and of that water great quan∣titie of salt is daily made.

In this great Lake are aboue two hundred thousand little boates, which the Indians call A∣calles,* 6.630 and the Spaniards call them Canoas, according to the speech of Cuba and Santo Domingo, wrought like a kneading trough: some are bigger then other some, according to the greatnesse of the body of the tree whereof they are made. And where I number two hundred thousand of these boats, I speake of the least, for Mexico alone hath aboue fiftie thousand ordinarily to carry and bring vnto the Citie victuall, prouision, and passengers, so that on the market day all the streets of water are full of them. [ 20]

* 6.631The Market is called in the Indian tongue Tlanquiztli: euery Parish hath his Market place to buy and sell in: but Mexico, and Tlatelulco onely, which are the chiefest Cities, haue great Faires and places fit for the same, and especially Mexico hath one place where most dayes in the yeere is buying and selling, but euery fourth day is the great Market ordinarily: and the like custome is vsed throughout the Dominions of Mutezuma. This place is wide and large, compassed round about with doores, and is so great, that a hundred thousand persons come thither to chop and change, as a Citie most principall in all that Region. Wherefore the resort is from farre parts vnto that place. Euery occupation and kinde of merchandise hath his proper place appointed, which no other may by any meanes occupie or disturbe.* 6.632 Likewise pesterous wares haue their [ 30] place accordingly (that is to say) stone, timber, lime, bricke, and all kinde of stuffe vnwrought, being necessarie to build withall. Also Mats both fine and course of sundrie workmanship, also Coales,* 6.633 Wood, and all sorts of earthen vessell, glased and painted very curiously: Deere skinnes both raw and tanned in haire and without haire, of many colours, for Shoomakers, Bucklers, Targets, Ierkins, and lining of woodden Corselets: also skinnes of other beasts and fowle in fea∣thers readie dressed of all sorts, the colours and strangenesse thereof was a thing to behold. The richest merchandise was Salt, and Mantels of cotton wooll of diuers colours, both great and smal, some for beds, others for garments and clothing, other for tapissarie to hang houses, other cotten cloth for lining breeches, shirts, table clothes, towels, napkins, and such like things.

There were also Mantels made of the leaues of the tree called Metl, and of Palme tree, and Cony haire, which are well esteemed, being very warme, but the Couerlets made of feathers [ 40] are the best: they sell threed made of Cony haire, pieces of linnen cloth made of cotton wooll, also skaines of threed of all colours: also it is strange to see the great store of fowle, some wilde, some tame, some water fowle, and other some of rapine. All the brauerie of the Market, is the place where gold and feathers ioyntly wrought is sold, for any thing that is in request is there liuely wrought in gold and feathers,* 6.634 and gallant colours. The Indians are so expert and perfect in this science, that they will worke or make a Butter-flie, any wild Beast, Trees, Roses, Flowers, Herbs, Rootes, or any other thing, so liuely, that it is a thing maruellous to behold. It hapneth many times that one of these workmen in a whole day will eate nothing, onely to place one fea∣ther in his due perfection, turning and tossing the feather to the light of the Sunne, into the [ 50] shade or darke place, to see where is his most naturall perfection, and till his worke be finished he will neither eate nor drinke. There are few Nations of so much patience. The Art or Science of Gold-smiths, among them is the most curious, and very good workmanship engrauen with tooles made of flint,* 6.635 or in mold. They will cast a platter in mold with eight corners, and euery corner of seuerall metall, that is to say, the one of gold, and the other of siluer, without any kind of solder: they will also found or cast a little caldron with loose handles hanging thereat, as wee vse to cast a bell: they will also cast in mold a fish of metall with one scale of siluer on his backe, and another of gold: they will make a Parret or Popinjay of metall, that his tongue shall shake, and his head mooue, and his wings flutter: they will cast an Ape in mold, that both hands and feet shall stirre, and hold a spindle in his hand seeming to spin, yea and an Apple in his hand, as though he would eate it. Our Spaniards were not a little amazed at the sight of these things. For [ 60] our Gold-smiths are not to be compared vnto them. They haue skill also of Amell worke, and to set any precious stone. But now as touching the Market, there is to sell Gold, Siluer, Copper, Leade, Latton, and Tin, although there is but little of the three last metals mentioned. There are

pearles, precious stones, diuers and sundrie sorts of shells, and bones, spunges and other Pedlers ware, which certainly are many and strange sorts, yea, and a thing to laugh at their Haberdash toyes and triffles. There are also many kinde of Hearbs, Roots, and Seedes, as well to bee eaten, as for medicine, for both men, women, and children, haue great knowledge in hearbs, for through pouertie and necessitie, they seeke them for their sustenance and helpe of their infirmities and dis∣eases. They spend little among Physicians, although there are some of that Art, and many Apo∣thecaries, who doe bring into the market Ointments, Sirrops, Waters, and other drugs, fit for sicke persons: they cure all diseases almost, with hearbs; yea, as much as for to kill Lice, they haue a proper hearbe for the purpose.

[ 10] The seuerall kindes of meates to bee sold are without number, as Snakes without head and taile, little Dogs gelt, Molls, Rats, long Wormes, Lice, yea and a kinde of earth,* 6.636 for at one sea∣son in the yeere they haue Nets of maile, with the which they rake vp a certaine dust that is bred vpon the water of the Lake of Mexico, and that is kneaded together like vnto Oas of the Sea: they gather much of this victuall, and keepe it in heapes, and make thereof Cakes like vnto brick-bats: they sell not onely this ware in the Market, but also send it abroad to other Faires and Markets afarre off: they eate this meate with as good stomacks as wee eate cheese, yea and they hold opinion that this skum or fatnesse of the water, is the cause that such great number of fowle commeth to the Lake, which in the winter season is infinite. All the Sellers pay a certaine summe for their shops or standings to the King, as a custome, and they to bee preserued and de∣fended [ 20] from theeues: and for that cause there goe certaine Sergeants or Officers vp and downe the Market to espie out malefactors. In the middest of the Market standeth a house which may bee seene throughout the Faire, and there sitteth twelue ancient men for Iudges to dispatch Law matters: their buying and selling is to change one ware for another, as thus,* 6.637 one giueth a Hen for a bundell of Maiz, other giue Mantels for Salt, or money which is Cacao, and this is their order to chop and change: they haue measure and strike for all kinde of Corne, and other earthen mea∣sures for Hony and Wine, and if any Measure bee falsified, they punish the offenders, and breake their measures.

The Temple is called Teucalli, that is to say, Gods House; Teutl, signifieth God;* 6.638 and Calli is a House, a name very fit, if that house had beene of the true God. The Spaniards that vnderstand [ 30] not the language, doe pronounce and call those Temples Cues, and the God Vitzilopuchtli, Vchi∣lobos. There are in Mexico many Churches with Towres for their Parishes and Streets, where∣in are Chappels and Altars where the Images and Idols doe stand, and those Chappels doe serue for buriall places of their Founders; for others are buried in the ground about them or Church∣yards. All their Temples are of one fashion, therefore it shall bee now sufficient to speake of the principall Church. This Temple is square, and doth contayne euery way as much ground as a Crosse-bow can reach leuell: it is made of stone, with foure doores that abutteth vpon the three Cawseys, and vpon another part of the Citie, that hath no Cawsey but a faire street. In the middest of this Quaderne standeth a mount of earth and stone, square likewise,* 6.639 and fiftie fathom long euery way, built vpward like vnto a Pyramide of Egypt, sauing the top is not sharpe, but [ 40] plaine and flat, and ten fathom square: vpon the West side, were steps vp to the top, in number an hundreth and fourteene, which being so many, high, and made of good stone, did seeme a beautifull thing. It was a strange sight to behold the Priests, some going vp, and some downe with ceremonies, or with men to be sacrificed.* 6.640 Vpon the top of this Temple are two great Al∣tars, a good space distant the one from the other, and so nigh the edge or brim of the wall, that scarsly a man may goe behinde them at pleasure. The one Altar standeth on the right hand, and the other on the left: they were but of fiue foot high, each of them had the backe part made of stone, painted with monstrous and foule figures, the Chappell was faire and well wrought of Masons worke and timber, euery Chappell had three lofts, one aboue another, sustayned vpon pillars, and with the height thereof it shewed like vnto a faire Towre, and beautified the Citie [ 50] afarre off: from thence a man may see all the Citie and Townes round about the Lake, which was vndoubtedly a goodly prospect. And because Cortes and his companie should see the beautie thereof; Mutezuma brought him thither, and shewed him all the order of the Temple, euen from the foot to the top. There was a certaine plot or space for the Idoll Priests to celebrate their seruice without disturbance of any. Their generall prayers were made toward the rising of the Sunne. Vpon each Altar standeth a great Idoll. Beside this Towre that standeth vpon the Py∣ramide,* 6.641 there are fourtie Towres great and small belonging to other little Temples which stand in the same circuit, the which although they were of the same making, yet their prospect was not Westward, but other wayes, because there should be a difference betwixt the great Temple and them. Some of these Temples were bigger then others, and euery one of a seuerall God,* 6.642 [ 60] among the which there was one round Temple, dedicated to the God of the aire, called Quecal∣couatl, for euen as the aire goeth round about the Heauens, euen for that consideration they made his Temple round. The entrance of that Temple had a doore,* 6.643 made like vnto the mouth of a Serpent, and was painted with foule and deuillish gestures, with great teeth and gums wrought, which was a thing to feare those that should enter in thereat, and especially the Christians

vnto whom it represented very Hell, with that vgly face and monstrous teeth.

There were other Teucalles in the Citie, that had the ascending vp by steps in three places: all these Temples had houses by themselues with all seruice, and Priests and particular Gods. At euery doore of the great Temple standeth a large Hall and goodly Lodgings, both high and low round about,* 6.644 which houses were common Armories for the Citie, for the force and strength of euery Towne is the Temple, and therefore they haue there placed their store-house of munition. They had other darke houses full of Idols,* 6.645 great and small, wrought of sundrie metals, they are all bathed and washed with bloud, and doe shew very blacke through their daily sprinkling and anointing them with the same, when any man is sacrificed: yea, and the walls are an inch thicke with bloud,* 6.646 and the ground is a foot thick of bloud, so that there is a deuillish stinch. The Priests [ 10] or Ministers goe daily into those Oratories,* 6.647 and suffer none others but great personages to enter in. Yea, and when any such goeth in, they are bound to offer some man to bee sacrificed, that those bloudie Hangmen and Ministers of the Deuill may wash their hands in bloud of those so sacrificed, and to sprinkle their house therewith.

For their seruice in the Kitchin they haue a Pond of water that is filled once a yeere, which is brought by conduit from the principall Fountaine. All the residue of the foresaid circuit serueth for places to breede fowle, with Gardens of herbs and sweet trees, with Roses and flowers for the Altars. Such, so great and strange was this Temple of Mexico, for the seruice of the Deuill who had deceiued those simple Indians. There doth reside in the same Temple continually fiue thousand persons,* 6.648 and all they are lodged and haue their liuing there, for that Temple is maruel∣lous rich, and hath diuers Townes onely for their maintenance and reparation, and are bound to [ 20] sustaine the same alwayes on foot. They doe sowe Corne, and maintayne all those fiue thou∣sand persons with bread, fruit, flesh, fish, and fire-wood, as much as they neede, for they spend more fire-wood then is spent in the Kings Court: these persons doe liue at their hearts ease, as seruants and vassals vnto the Gods.

* 6.649The Gods of Mexico were two thousand in number, as the Indians reported, the chiefest were Vitzilopuchtli, and Tezcatlipuca, whose Images stood highest in the Temple vpon the Al∣tars: they were made of stone in full proportion as bigge as a Giant. They were couered with a lawne, called Nacar. These Images were beset with pearles, precious stones, and pieces of gold, wrought like birds, beasts, fishes, and flowres, adorned with Emeralds, Turquies, Calce∣dons, [ 30] and other little fine stones, so that when the lawne Nacar was taken away, the Images seemed very beautifull to behold.* 6.650 The Image had for a girdle great Snakes of gold, and for Col∣lars and Chaines about their necks, ten hearts of men made of gold, and each of those Idols had a counterfait visard with eyes of glasse, and in their necks death painted: each of these things had their considerations and meanings. These two Gods were brethren, for Tezcatlipuca was the God of Prouidence, and Vitzilopuchti God of the Warres, who was worshipped and feared more then all the rest.

There was another God, who had a great Image placed vpon the top of the Chappell of Idols, and he was esteemed for a speciall and singular God aboue all the rest. This God was made of all kinde of seedes that groweth in that Country, and being ground, they made a certaine paste, [ 40] tempered with Childrens bloud, and Virgins sacrificed, who were opened with their Rasors in the breasts, and their hearts taken out, to offer as first fruits vnto the Idoll. The Priests and Mi∣nisters doe consecrate this Idoll with great pompe and many ceremonies. All the Comarcans and Citizens are present at the consecration, with great triumph and incredible deuotion. After the consecration,* 6.651 many deuout persons came and sticked in the dowie Image precious stones, wedges of gold, and other jewels. After all this pompe ended, no secular man may touch that holy I∣mage, no nor yet come into his Chappell, nay-scarsly religious persons, except they were Tlama∣caztli, who are Priests of order. They doe renew this Image many times with new dough, ta∣king away the old, but then blessed is he that can get one piece of the old raggs for reliques, and chiefly for Souldiers, who thought themselues sure there with in the warres. Also at the conse∣cration [ 50] of this Idoll, a certaine vessell of water was blessed with many wordes and ceremonies, and that water was preserued very religiously at the foot of the Altar, for to consecrate the King when he should be crowned, and also to blesse any Captaine generall, when he should be elected for the warres, with onely giuing him a draught of that water.

* 6.652Without the Temple, and ouer against the principall doore thereof, a stones cast distant, stan∣deth the Charnell house onely of dead mens heads, prisoners in warres, and sacrificed with the knife. This monument was made like vnto a Theater, more larger then broad, wrought of lime and stone, with ascending steps, in the walls whereof was grafted betwixt stone and stone a Scull, with the teeth outwards. At the foot and head of this Theater, were two Towres, made onely of lime and sculls,* 6.653 the teeth outward, and this wall hauing no other stuffe, seemed a [ 60] strange sight. At and vpon the top of the Theater, were seuentie Poles, standing the one from the other foure or fiue foot distant, and each of them was full of staues from the foot to the top. Each of these staues had others made fast vnto them, so that euery of them had fiue sculs broched 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Temple. Andrew de Tapia did certifie me, that he and Gonçalo de Vmbria did rec∣kon

them in one day, and found a hundred thirtie and sixe thousand sculls on the poles, staues, and steps. The other Towres were replenished out of number, a most cruell custome, being one∣ly mens heads slaine in sacrifice, although it hath a shew of humanitie for the remembrance there placed of death. There are also men appointed, that when one scull falleth, to set vp another in his place, so that the number may neuer want.

Other Mexican Antiquities, Letters, Numbers, Yeeres, Dayes, Weekes, &c.

[ 10]

THere hath not beene found Letters at any time in the West India, onely in new Spaine were vsed certaine figures which serued for letters, with the which they kept in memorie and preserued their Antiquities. The figures that the Mexicans vsed for letters are great, by reason whereof they occupie great Volumes: they engraue them in stone or timber, and paint them vpon walls, and also vpon a paper made of cotton wooll, and leaues of the tree Metl. Their bookes are great and folded vp like vnto our broad cloathes, and written vpon both sides. There are some bookes rolled vp like a piece of flannell. They pronounce not v, g, r, s, y, therefore they vse much p, c, l, x. This is the Mexican speech, and Nahual, which is the best, playnest, and the most eloquent, in all new Spaine. There are some in Mexico that doe vnderstand each other by whistling, which is ordinarily vsed among Louers, and Theeues, a speech truly to wonder at, and none of our men could come to the knowledge thereof.

[ 20]

Their reckoning by numbers was in this sort.

Ce,

One,

Ome,

Two,

Ei,

Three,

Naui,

Foure,

Macuil,

Fiue,

Chicoace,

Six,

Chicome,

Seuen,

Chicuei,

Eight

Chiconaui,

Nine,

Matlac,

Ten,

Matlactlioce,

Eleuen,

Matlactliome,

Twelue,

Matlactlomei,

Thirteene,

Matlactlinaui,

Fourteene,

Matlactlinacui,

Fifteene,

Matlactlichicoace,

Sixteene,

Matlactlichicome,

Seuenteene,

Matlactlichicuei,

Eighteene,

Matlactlichiconaui,

Nineteene,

Cempoalli,

Twentie.

[ 30] Euery number is simple vntill you come to sixe, and then they count, sixe and one, sixe and two, sixe and three. Ten is a number by himselfe, then you must count ten and one, ten and two, ten and three, ten and foure, ten and fiue. Then you count, ten, fiue, and one; ten, fiue, and two; ten, fiue, and three. Twentie goeth by himselfe, and all the greater numbers.

The Mexican yeere is three hundreth and sixtie dayes, for they haue in their yeere eighteene moneths, and euery moneth contayneth twentie dayes. They haue other fiue odde dayes, which goeth by themselues, in the which they vsed to celebrate great feasts of cruell and bloudy sacrifice, with much deuotion. And reckoning after this sort they could not choose but erre, for they could not make equall the punctuall course of the Sunne. Yea the Christian yeere is not perfect, although wee haue learned Astronomers. But yet these simple Indians went neere the marke.

[ 40] The names of the moneths. Tlacaxipeualiztli, Tozcutzli, Huei Tozeuztli, Toxcalt, Ecalcoa∣liztli, Tocuilhuicintli, Hueitecuilhuitl, Miccailhuicintli, Veymiccailhuitl, Vchpaniztli, Pachtli, Huei Pachtli, Quecholli, Panquecaliztli, Hatemuztli, Tititlh, Izcalli, Coa Vitleuac.

The names of Dayes, were Cipactli, A Spade; Hecatl, Aire or Winde; Calli, A House; Cuez Pali, A Lizzart; Coualt, A Snake; Mizquintli, Death; Macatl, A wilde Hart; Toohtli, A Cony; Atl, Water; Izcuyntli, A Dogge; Ocumatli, An Ape; Malinalli, A Broome; Acatlh, A Caue; Ocelotl, A Tigre; Coautli, An Eagle; Cozcaquahutl, A Buzzard; Olin, A Temple; Tepatlh, A Knife; Quiauitl, Raine; Xuchitl, A Rose.

Although these twentie names serue for the whole yeere, and are but the dayes of euery moneth, yet therefore euery moneth beginneth not with Cipactli, which is the first name, but as they follow in order, and the fiue odde dayes is the cause thereof. And also because their weeke is of thirteene dayes, which [ 50] changeth the names, as by example, Cecipactli can goe no further then vnto Matlactlomeiacatl, which is thirteene, and then beginneth another weeke: and we doe not say Matlactlinaui Ocelotl, which is the fourteenth day, but wee say Ceocelotl, which is one, and then reckon the other sixe names vnto twentie. And when all the twentie dayes are ended, begin againe to reckon from the first name of the twentie, but not from one, but from eight. And because yee may better vnderstand the matter, here is the example.

Cecipactli, Omehecatl, Ei Calli, Naui Cuezpali, Macuilcouatl, Chicoacen Mizquinth, Chi∣come Macatl, Chicu••i Tochtli, Chiconauiatl, Matlaciz Cuintli, Mailactlioce Ocumatli, Mat∣lactliome Malinalli, Matlactlomei Acatlh. The next weeke following doth begin his dayes from one. And that one is the fourteenth name of the moneth and of the dayes, and saith: Ceotelotl, Omecoaut∣li, [ 60] E••cozcaquahutli, Naui Olui, Macuil Tecpatl, Chicoacen Quiauitl, Chicome Xuchitl, Chicoei Cipactli. In this second weeke, Cipactli came to fall on the eight day, being in the first weeke the first day. Cemacatl, Ometochtli, Eiatl, Naui Izcuintli, Macuil Ocumatli. And so proceede on to the third weeke, in the which this name Cipactli entreth not, but Macatl, which was the seuenth day in the

first weeke, and had no place in the second, and is the first in the third. The reckoning is no darker then ours, which we haue in a, b, c, d, e, f, g. For they also change with time, and run in such sort, that a, which was the first letter of this moneth, commeth to be the fift day of the next moneth, and the third mo∣neth he counteth to be the third day, and so orderly doth the other sixe letters.

These Mexicans had another order to reckon their yeeres, which exceeded not aboue foure in number, as one,* 6.654 two, three, foure, wherewith they account a hundred, fiue hundred, a thousand, and as many moe as they list. Those foure figures or names, are, Tochtli, Acatlh, Tecpatlh, Calli, and doe signifie a Cony, a Caue, a Knife, and a House, saying: Ce Totchtli, One yeere; Ome Acatlth, Two yeeres; Ei Tecpatlh, Three yeeres; Naui Calli, Foure yeeres; Macuil Tochtli, Fiue yeeres; Chioacen A∣catlh, Sixe yeeres; Cicome Tecpatlh, Seuen yeeres; Chicuei Calh, Eight yeeres; Chiconaui Tocht∣li, Nine yeeres; Matlactli Acatlh, Ten yeeres; Matlactlioce Tecpatlh, Eleuen yeeres; Mat∣lactliome [ 10] Calli, Twelue yeeres; Matlactliomei Tochtli, Thirteene yeeres. So that the reckoning passeth not aboue thirteene, which is one weeke of the yeere, and endeth where he began.

The second weeke. Ce Acatlh, one yeere; Ome Tlepatlh, two yeeres; Ei Calli, three yeeres; Naui Tochtli, foure yeeres; Macuil Acatlh, fiue yeeres; Chioacen Tecpatlh, sixe yeeres; Chico∣me Calli, seuen yeeres; Chicuei Tochtli, eight yeeres; Chiconaui Acatlh, nine yeeres; Matlact∣li Tecpatlh, ten yeeres; Matlactlioce Calli, eleuen yeeres; Matlactliome Tochtli, twelue yeeres; Matlactliomei Acatlh, thirteene yeeres. The third weeke of yeeres. Ce Tecpatlh, one yeere; Ome Calli, two yeeres; Ei Tochtli, three yeeres; Naui Acatlh, foure yeeres; Macuil Tecpatlh, fiue yeeres; Chioacan Calli, sixe yeeres; Chicome Tochtli, seuen yeeres; Chicuei Acatlh, eight yeeres; Chiconaui Tecpatlh, nine yeeres; Matlactli Calli, ten yeeres; Matlactliome Tochtli, eleuen yeeres; [ 20] Matlactliome Acatlh, twelue yeeres; Matlactliomei Tecpatlh, thirteene yeeres.

The fourth weeke. Ce Calli, one yeere, Ome Tochtli, two yeares; Ei Acatlh, three yeares; Na∣ui Tecpatlh, foure yeares; Macuil Calli, fiue yeares; Chioacen Tochtli, six yeares; Chicome Acatch, seuen yeares; Chieuei Tecpatlh, eight yeares; Chiconaui Calli, nine yeares; Matlactli Tochtli, ten yeares; Matlactlioce Acatlh, eleuen yeares; Matlactliome Tecpatlh, twelue yeares; Matlactlio∣mei Calli, thirteene yeares. Each of these weekes, which our men call Indition, doth containe thirteene yeares, so that all the foure weekes make two and fiftie yeares, which is a perfect number in their recko∣ning, and is called the yeare of grace, for from fiftie two yeares, to fiftie two yeares, they vsed to make so∣lemne feasts, with strange, Ceremonies, as hereafter shall be declared. And when fiftie two yeares are [ 30] ended, then they begin againe, by the same order before declared, vntill they come to as many moe, be∣ginning at Ce Tochtli, and so forward. But alwayes they begin at the Conie figure. So that in the forme of reckoning they keepe and haue in memory, things of eight hundred and fiftie yeares: and by this Chronicle they know in what yeare euery thing hapned, and how long euery King reigned: how many chil∣dren they had, and all things else that importeth to the estate of the gouernment of the Land.

The Indians of Culhua did beleeue that the Gods had made the World, but they knew not how, yet they beleeued that since the creation of the world foure Sunnes were past,* 6.655 and that the fift and last is the Sunne that now giueth light to the World. They held opinion that the first Sunne perished by water, and at the same time all liuing creatures perished likewise. The second Sunne (say they) fell from the hea∣uens, with whose fall all liuing creatures were slaine, and then (said they) were many Giants in that Coun∣trey, and certaine monstrous Bones, which our men found in opening of graues, by proportion whereof, [ 40] some should seeme to be men of twenty spans high. The third Sunne was consumed by fire, which burned day and night, so that then all liuing creatures were burned. The fourth Sunne finished by tempest of Ayre or Winde, which blow downe Houses, Trees, yea and the Mountaines and Rockes were blowen a sunder, but the linage of Mankinde perished not, sauing that they were conuerted into Apes. And touching the fift Sunne, which now raigneth, they know not how it shall consume. But they say, that when the fourth Sunne perished, all the world fell into darkenesse, and so remained for the space of fiue and twenty yeares continually, and at the fifteenth yeare of that fearefull darkenesse, the Gods did forme one man and woman, who brought forth children, and at the end of the other ten yeares, appeared the Sunne which was newly borne vpon the figure of the Conie day, and therefore they begin their account [ 50] of yeares at that day, and reckoning from the yeare of our Lord 1552. their age or Sunne is 858. so that it appearreth that they haue vsed many yeares their writing in figures: and they had not onely this vse from Cetochli, which is the beginning of their yeare, moneth, and day, of their fifth Sunne, but also they had the same order and vse in the other foure Sunnes which were past: but they let many things slip out of me∣mory, saying, that with the new Sunne, all other things should be likewise new. They held also opinion, that three dayes after this last Sun appeared, all the gods did dye, and that in processe of time, the gods which now they haue, and worship, were borne.

Although one brother was heire to another among the Mexicans, and after their decease, did inherit the Sonne of the eldest Brother,* 6.656 yet they tooke no possession of the state or name of King, vntill they were an∣nointed and crowned openly.

As soone as any King of Mexico deceased, and his Funerals ended, then were called to Parliament [ 60] the Lord of Tezcuco and the Lord of Tlacopan, who were the chiefest estates, and then in order all other Noblemen, who owed any seruice to the Mexican Empire. And being come together; if any doubt of the in∣heritance

of the Crowne happened, then the matter was decided with all haste: then the new King being knowne, he was stripped starke naked, except a cloath to couer his priuie parts, and in this sort was carri∣ed among them, to the great Temple of Vitzilopuchtli with great silence, and without any ioy or plea∣sure: Two Gentlemen of the Citie, whose office it was, led him vp the staires of the Temple by the armes, and before him went the Princes of Tezcuco and Tlacopan, who that day did weare their roabes of Coronation, whereupon was painted their armes and title. Verie few of the Laitie went vp into the Chap∣pels, but onely those that were appointed to attire the new King, and to serue in other Ceremonies, for all the residue stood vpon the steps and below, to behold the Coronation. These Magistrates being aboue in the Chappell, came with great humility and reuerence, kneeling downe vpon their knees before the Idoll of Vitzilopuchtli, and touched the earth with one finger, and then kissed the same. Then came the high [ 10] Priest cloathed in his pontificall vestments, with many others in his company, who did weare Surplices: and without speaking any word, they painted or coloured the Kings person, with Inke made for the pur∣pose, as blacke as any coale. After this Ceremonie done, they blessed the annointed King,* 6.657 and sprinkled him foure times with a certaine holy water, that was made at the time of consecration of the God, made of dowe or paste, with a sprinkle made of bowes of Cane leaues, Cedar, and Willow leaues. Then they put vpon his head, cloth painted with the bones and souls of dead men, and next they cloathed him with a blacke garment, & vpon that another blew, and both were painted with the figures of dead mens sculs and bones. Then they put about his necke certaine laces, whereat did hang the armes of the Crowne. And behinde his back they did hang certain little bottels full of powders, by vertue wherof he was deliuered from pestilence and diseases, according to their opinion: yea, and thereby Witches, nor Witchcrafts could not hurt him, [ 20] nor yet euill men deceiue him. In fine, with those relicks he was sure from all perill and danger. Vpon his left arme they bound a little bagge of Incense, and then brought vnto him a chaffing-dish of imbers made of the barke of an Oke tree. Then the King arose, and with his owne hand threw of the same Incense, into the chaffing-dish, and with great reuerence brought the same to the god Vitzilopuchtli, and after he had smoaked him therewith, he sat him downe, then came the high Priest and tooke his oath to main∣taine the religion of the gods, to keepe also all the lawes and customes of his predecessours, to maintaine iustice, and not to aggrauate any of his vassals or subiects, and that he should be valiant in the warres, that he should cause the Sunne to giue his light, the clouds to yeelde raine, the riuers to runne, and the earth to bring forth all kinde of graine, fruites, and other needefull hearbs and trees. These and many o∣ther [ 30] impossible things the new King did sweare to performe: and then he gaue thankes to the high Priest, and commended himselfe to the gods, and to the lookers on, and they who brought him vp in the same or∣der, carrieth him downe againe. Then all the people cried, the Gods preserue the new King, and that he may raigne many yeares in health with all his people. But then some began to dance, other to play on their instruments, shewing outwardly their inward ioyes of heart. And before the King came to the foote of the steps, all the Noblemen came to yeelde their obedience, and in token of louing and faithfull subiects, they presented vnto him Feathers, strings of Snaile-shels, Collers, and other Iewels of Gold and Siluer, also Mantels painted with death, and bare him company vnto a great hall within the compasse of the Temple, and there left him, The King sitteth downe vnder his cloath of estate, called Tlacatecco, and in foure dayes departeth not out of the circuit of the Temple, the which hee spends in [ 40] prayers, sacrifice, and penance; he eates then but once a day, and euery day he bathes himselfe, and a∣gaine in the night in a great pond of water, and then lets himselfe bloud in his eares, and senseth there∣with the god of water, called Tlaloc: he likewise senseth the other Idols, vnto whom he offereth Bread, Flowers, Papers, and little Canes, died in the bloud of his owne tongue, nose, hands, and other parts of his body. After the foure dayes expired, then come all the Noblemen to beare him company to his Pal∣lace, with great triumph and pleasure of all the Citie, but after his consecration few or none dare looke him in the face.

And now with the declaration of the Acts and Ceremonies that the Mexican Kings are crow∣ned, I shall not neede to rehearse of other Kings, for generally they all doe vse the same order, sauing that other Princes goe not vp to the top of the Temple, but abide at the foote of the steps to be crowned, and [ 50] after their Coronation they come to Mexico for their confirmation, and then at their returne to their Countrey, they made many drunken feasts and banquets.

The Mexicans did beleeue that the Soule was immortall,* 6.658 and that they receiued either ioy or paine according to their deserts and liuing in this world, vnto which opinion all their religion did attaine, and chiefly appeare at their burials. They held for an assured faith, that there were nine places appointed for soules, and the chiefest place of glory to be neere vnto the Sunne,* 6.659 where the soules of those which were good men slaine in the warres, and those which were sacrificed were placed, and that all other sorts of euill persons their soules abode on the earth, and were deuided after this sort, children that were dead borne went to one place, those which died of age or other disease went to another, those which died of sud∣den death to another, those which died of wounds or contagious diseases went to another place, those which [ 60] were drowned went to another, those which were put to death for offence by order of Iustice, as for rob∣bery and adultery to another: Those which slew their Fathers, Mothers, Wiues or Children, to another place by themselues: also those who slew their Masters or any religious person went to another place. The common sort of people were buried, but Lords and rich men had their bodies burned, and their ashes buried. In their shrowdes they had a great difference, for many dead bodies were buried better apparel∣led

then when they were on liue. Women were shrowded after another sort. And hee that suffered death for adultery, was shrowded like vnto the God of lecherie, called Tlazoulteutl; he that was drowned like vnto the god of water, named Tlacoc; and he that died with drunkennesse was shrowded like vnto the god of wine, called Ometochtli. But the Souldier had an honorable shrowde like vnto the attire of Vitzilo∣puchtli, and the like order in all other sorts of deaths.

When any King of Mexico happened to fall sicke, they vsed forthwith to put a visor vpon the face of Tezcatlipaca,* 6.660 or Vitzilopuchtli, or some other Idoll, which Visor was not taken away, vntill they saw whether the King did amend, or else dye: But if he chanced to dye, then word was sent throughout all his Dominions to bewaile his death, and also other postes were sent is call the Noblemen that were his nigh∣est kinsmen, and to warne them within foure daies to come vnto his buriall. [ 10]

The dead body was laid vpon a faire Mat, and was watched foure nights, with great lamentation and mourning: then the body was washed, and a locke of haire cut from the crowne of his head, which was preserued as a great relicke, saying, that therein remained the remembrance of his soule. This done, a fine Emerald was put in his mouth, and his body shrowded in seuenteene rich Mantels, of colours, both rich and costly wrought. Vpon the vpper Mantle was set the deuise or armes of Vitzilopuchtli or Tez∣calipuca, or some other Idoll, in whom the King had great confidence in his life time, and in his Temple should the body be buried. Vpon his face they put a visor, painted with foule and Deuillish iestures, be∣set with many Iewels, Precious stones, and Pearles, Then they killed his slaue, whose office was to light the Lampes, and make fire vnto the gods of his Pallace. These things done, they carried the dead body vn∣to the Temple: some followed him with dolefull tune, others sung the death of the King by note, for so was the custome. [ 20]

The Noblemen and Gentlemen of his houshold carried Targets, Arrowes, Mases, and Ensignes to throw into the fire where the body should be buried in the Temple. The high Priest and all the Clergie receiued him at the Temple gate, with a sorrowfull song, and after he had said certaine words, the body was throne into a great fire made for the purpose, with all the Iewels that he had about him, and all the other things which was brought to honour the buriall: also a Dogge newly strangled with an Arrow, which was to guide him his way. In the meane while that the King and Dogge were burning the Priests sacrificed two hundred persons, howbeit in his Ceremonie there was no ordinary taxe, for sometimes they sacrificed many moe: they were opened with a Rasor of flint in the breasts, and their hearts taken out and throwne into the fire where the Kings body was. These miserable persons being sacrificed, and [ 30] their bodies throwne into a hole; they beleeued assuredly that those should serue for his slaues in another world: some of them were Dwarffes, monstrous and deformed persons, with some women. They placed about the dead body of the King before his buriall, Roses, Flowers, and sundrie dishes of meate and drinke, and no creature durst touch the same, but onely the Priests, for it seemed to be an offering.

The next day following, all the ashes were gathered together, and the teeth with the Emerald that was in his mouth, the which things were put into a Chest, painted on the inside with horrible figures of de∣uils, and the locke of haire which was cut from his crowne, and another locke of haire which was pre∣serued from the time of his birth. Then the Chest was lockt, and an Image of wood made and cloathed like vnto the Kings person, which was set on the top of the Chest. The obsequies endured foure dayes, in the which the wiues and daughters of the King offered great offerings at the place where his body was [ 40] buried, and before the Chest and his Image.

On the fourth day after the buriall, fifteene slaues were sacrificed for his soule; and on the twentieth day, other fiue persons were also sacrificed; likewise on the sixtie three and fourescore, which was like vnto the yeares minde.

The Kingdome of Michuacan is almost as great as the Empire of Mexico, and when any King of that Countrey happened to be visited with sicknesse,* 6.661 and brought to such extremitie, that hope of life were past, according to the opinion of Phisitions, then would he name and appoint which of his Sonnes should inherite the estate; and being knowne, the new King or heire, incontinent sent for all the Gouernours, Captaines, and valiant Souldiors, who had any office or charge to come vnto the buri∣all [ 50] of his Father, and he that came not, from thenceforth was held for a Traitour, and so punished. When the death of the old King was certaine, then came all degrees of Estates and brought presents to the new King, for the approbation of his Kingdome, but if the King were not throughly dead, but at the point of death, then the gates were shut in, and none permitted to enter; and when his life was de∣parted, then began a generall cry and mourning, and they were permitted to come where their dead King lay, and to touch him with their hands: this being done, the carkasse was washed with sweete wa∣ters, and then a fine shirt put vpon him, and a paire of shooes made of a Deere skinne put on his feete, and about his anckles were tied certaine Bels of Gold, about his wristes of his hands were put Manyllias of Turkies, and other Bracelets of Gold, likewise about his necke they hung other col∣lers of precious stones, and gold, and rings in his eares, with a great Turkise in his neather lippe. [ 60] Then his body was laid vpon a large beere, whereon was placed a good bed vnder him: on his one side lay a Bowe with a quiuer of Arrowes, and on his other side lay an Image made of fine Mantels of his owne stature or highnesse▪ with a great tuffe of fine feathers, shooes vpon his feete, with Bracelets, and a coller of gold. While his worke was a doing, others were busied in washing the men and wo∣men

which should be slaine for to accompany him into Hell: these wretched folke that should be slaine were banqueted and filled with drinke, because they should receiue their death with lesse paine. The new King did appoint those who should dye for to serue the King his Father, but yet many of them had ra∣ther haue beene without his seruice, notwithstanding some simple soules esteemed that odious death for a thing of immortall glory. First, seuen Gentlewomen of noble parentage were appointed to dye, the one to haue the office of keeper of his Iewels which he was wont to weare, another for the office of Cup-bearer, another to giue him water with a Bason and Ewer, another to giue him alwayes the Vrinall, another to be his Cooke, and another to serue for Laundresse. They slew also many woman-slaues, and free maidens, for to attend vpon the Gentlewomen, and moreouer, one of euery occupation within the [ 10] Citie. When all these that were appointed to dye were washed, and their bellies full with meate and drinke, then they painted their faces yellow, and put garlands of sweete flowers vpon each of their heads. Then they went in order of procession before the beere whereon the dead King was carried, some went playing on Instruments made of Snailes shels, others played vpon bones and shels of Sea-tur∣tils, others went whistling, and the most part weeping: the Sonnes of the dead King and other No∣blemen carried vpon their shoulders the Beere where the Course lay, and proceeded with an easie pace toward the Temple of the god Curicaueri: his kinsmen went round about the Beere, singing a sor∣rowfull song. The officers and houshold seruants of the Court with other Magistrates and Rulers of iu∣stice bare the Standards and diuers other armes.

About midnight they departed in the order aforesaid, out of the Kings pallace, with great light of [ 20] fire brands, and with a heauie noise of Trumpets and Drummes. The Citizens which dwelt where the Corse passed, attended to make cleane the streete. And when they were come to the Temple, they went foure times round about a great fire made of the wood of Pine tree, which was prepared to burne the dead body: then the Beere was laid vpon the fire, and in the meane while that the body was burning, they mawled with a club those which had the Garlands, and afterward buried them by foure and foure, as they were apparelled behinde the Temple.

The next day in the morning, the ashes, bones and Iewels, was gathered and laid vpon a rich Man∣tle, the which was carried to the Temple gate, where the Priests attended to blesse those deuellish relickes, whereof they made a dough or paste, and thereof an Image which was apparelled like a man, with a visor on his face, and all other sorts of Iewels that the dea•• King was wont to weare, so that it seemed a gal∣lant [ 30] I doll. At the foote of the Temple staires they opened a graue ready made, which was square, large, and two fadom deepe, it was also hanged with new Mats round about, and a farre bed therein, in the which a religious man placed the Idol made of a••hes, with his eyes toward the East part, and hung round about the wals, Targets of Gold and Siluer, with Bowe and Arrowes, and many gallant tuffes of Feathers, with earthen vessels, as Pots, Dishes, and Platters, so that the graue was filled vp with houshold stuffe, Chests couered with Leather, Apparell, Iewels, Meate Drinke, and Armor. This done, the graue was shut vp, and made sure with be••mes, boords, and flored with earth on the top.

All those Gentlemen which had serued or touched any thing in the buriall, washed themselues, and went to dinner in the Court or yard of the Kings house without any table, and hauing dined, they wiped their hands vpon certaine locks of Cotten woll, hanging downe their heads, and not speaking any word, ex∣cept [ 40] it were to aske for drinke. This Ceremonie endured fiue dayes, and in all that time no fire was per∣mitted to be kindled in the Citie, except in the Kings house and Temples, nor yet any Corne was ground, or Market kept, nor none durst goe out of their houses, shewing all the sorrow that might be possible for the death of their King.

In Mexico were twelue Iudges, who were all Noblemen, graue,* 6.662 and well learned in the Mexican Lawes. These men liued onely by the rents that properly appertaine to the maintenance of Iustice, and in any cause iudged by them, it was lawfull for the parties to appeale vnto other twelue Iudges, who were of the Princes bloud, and alwayes abode in the Court, and were maintained at the Kings owne cost and charges. The inferiour Iudges came ordinarily once euery moneth to consult with the higher. And in euery fourescore dayes came the Iudges of euery Prouince within the Mexican Empire, to consult with the Iudges of Mexico, but all doubtfull causes were reserued to the King, onely to passe by his [ 50] order and determination. The Painters serued for notaries,* 6.663 to paint all the cases which were to be resol∣ued, but no suite passed aboue fourescore dayes without finall end and determination. There were in that Citie twelue Sergeants, whose office was to arrest, and to call parties before the Iudges. Their gar∣ments were painted Mantels, whereby they were knowne a farre off. The Prisons were vnder ground,* 6.664 moist and darke, the cause whereof, was to put the people in feare to offend. If any witnesse were called to take an oath, the order was, that he should touch the ground with one of his fingers,* 6.665 and then to touch his tongue with the same, which signified that he had sworne and promised to speake the troth with his tongue, taking witnesse thereof, of the earth which did maintaine him. But some doe interprete the oath, that if the pa••tie sware not true, that then he might come to such extremitie, as to eate earth. Some∣time [ 60] they name and call vpon the God of the crime, whose cause the matter touched.

The Iudge that taketh bribes or gifts, is forthwith put out of his office, which was accounted a most vile a••d 〈◊〉〈◊〉 reproach.* 6.666 The Indians did affirme that Necau••lpincint•• did hang a Iudge in Tez∣••••••o, for 〈…〉〈…〉 sentence, be himselfe knowing the contrary.* 6.667 The Murtherer is executed

without exception. The woman with childe that wilfully casteth her creature, suffereth death for the same.* 6.668 The Theefe for the first offence, was made a slaue, and hanged for the second. The Traitor to the King and Common-weale, was put to death with extreame torments. The Woman taken in Mans apparell died for the same, and likewise the Man taken in Womans attire. Euery one that challengeth another to fight,* 6.669 except in the warres, was condemned to dye. In Tezcuco the sinne of Sodomie was punished with death, and that Law was instituted by Necaualpincinth, and Neca∣ualcoio, who were Iudges,* 6.670 which abhorred that filthy sinne, and therefore they deserued great praise, for in other Prouinces that abhominable sinne was not punished, although they haue in those places common Stewes, as in Panuco. [ 10]

[ 20]

The end of the fift Booke.

[ 30] [ 40] [ 50] [ 60]

Notes

• * 1.1

  I found this Worke transla∣ted in M. Hak∣luyts Papers; but I can scars∣ly call it Eng∣lish, it had so much of the Spanish garbe, in lieterall and verball affecta∣tion and obscu∣ritie. I haue examined it with the Spa∣nish Originall, and compared it also with the Latine Transla∣tion, with great paines for thy greater plea∣sure & profit, correcting and illustrating the phrase and sence; being before very rude, obscure and in very many places vtterly sencelesse. But hauing none to write for mee but my owne hands, I rather chose to amend this as I could, then to translate it anew. I haue seene it also in French. The Latine is exceeding false in some numbers, as 2000. for 20000. diuers times, &c. which I note for their sakes which reade that and haue not the Spanish I haue not contracted ••••is (as I haue done diuers other Relations) because it is a briefe contraction of the Spanish-Indian Contractation, presenting the Spanish Proceedings, Colonies, Townes Officers and Gouernment Spiritual and Temporall in the Indies. This Author hath written eight Decades of the Spanish Acts in the West Indies, which giue great light to those parts, but would be too long for this Worke.
• * 2.1

  Ramusio vncha∣ritably taxed: for he doth but blame the fol∣ly of Spanish Authors which are more curi∣ous to set downe the names, &c. of those which haue there done any thing though but re∣bellions, then the description of the beasts, fishes, fowles, plants, Earth, Heauen, &c. in the Indies: for which hee there com∣mends Ouiedo.
• * 2.2

  Chap. 1. Of the bounds and diuision of the West Indies.
• l 2.3

  The Spaniards haue surpassed all Nations of the World, in Nauigation of high built ships. Remem∣ber that a Spa∣niard speakes it.)
• * 2.4

  Pallos, is to say staues, or stickes.
• m 2.5

  The Spa∣niards did not, or would not know any Pas∣sage.
• n 2.6

  How the de∣grees of longi∣tude are rec∣koned.
• * 2.7

  What is disco∣uered and na∣uigated. The English haue discouered far more: From 81. in Green∣land, and from 78. in Groin∣land to 57. of South latitude.
• * 2.8

  A maruellous effect of the Loadstone. Don Antonie Ossorio, disco∣uereth a great secret of the Loadstone.
• * 2.9

  Chap. 2. Of the Naui∣gation of the Indies.
• * 2.10

  How many Nauigations there bee to these Indies.
• * 2.11

  Difficultie in going out of the Barre of Saint Lucar. In what times these Nauiga∣tions are to be made.

  Monsons.
• * 2.12

  The voyage of the Fleets till they come to the place wher they goe.
• * 2.13

  What thing the Brises are.
• * 2.14

  They take wa∣ter alreadie in the Ile of Gua∣dalupe, where the Courses are diuided.
• * 2.15

  Which is the best Nauigati∣on from that Cape of S. An∣tonie, to S. Iohn de Vlua.
• a 2.16

  Of little Venice.
• b 2.17

  Or of the Needle.
• * 2.18

  The voyage of Hunduras and Guatemala.
• c 2.19

  Or little black Moore.
• * 2.20

  Chap. 3. Wherein hee prosecuteth the Nauiga∣tions of the Indies.

  The Fleets doe returne to Ca∣stile by another way.

  When the fleets ought to depart to come for Castile.

  Whither the Fleets doe goe from Cartage∣na.
• d 2.21

  Or take a∣way sleepe. The ships of Hunduras re∣knowledge the Cape of Saint Antonie.

  When the Fleets of Noua Espanna doe depart thence. The voyage of them of Santa Martha and Venezuela. Nauigation from the Aua∣na to Castile. Nauigation from the Ilands of Azores vnto Saint Lucar.
• * 2.22

  Nauigation to the Riuer of Plata.
• * 2.23

  Nauigation of the South Sea.
• * 2.24

  Nauigation of Panama to the Citie de los Reyes.
• * 2.25

  Nauigation of th•• West In∣dies.
• * 2.26

  Chap. 4. Of the Indies of the North. Here was inser∣ted a Map of the North par••s of America. But Master Briggs hath in the former booke giuen you a farre farre bet∣ter, to which I referre you. Which bee the Indies of the North and which of the South.

  Wherefore it was called New Spaine.

  Great pastures in New Spaine.
• * 2.27

  The wea∣thermost or vpper Ilands.
• * 2.28

  Chap. 5. Of the bounds of the iurisdi∣ction of Saint Dominicke.
• * 2.29

  Chap. 6. Of the Iland Hispaniola and of Cuba.
• * 2.30

  Cazabi bread. Ten Spanish Townes.
• * 2.31

  The Citie of Saint Domingo.
• * 2.32

  Peso is foure shillings En∣glish.
• * 2.33

  Salualyon of Yguey.
• * 2.34

  The Village of Zeybo. El Cotuy.
• * 2.35

  Azua.
• * 2.36

  Who carried to the Indies the sugar Canes. La Yaguana.
• * 2.37

  Concecion de la Vega.
• * 2.38

  The wood of the Crosse of the Valley. Saint Iago de los Caualleros.
• * 2.39

  Puerto de Plata.
• * 2.40

  Monte Christe.
• * 2.41

  La Isabella.
• * 2.42

  La Verapaz. Saluatierra.
• * 2.43

  The Maguana. Villanueua.
• * 2.44

  El Bonao.
• * 2.45

  La Buenauen∣tura.
• * 2.46

  14000. Spani∣••rds there were in the Hispanio∣la at her be∣ginning Ports & Points most notable▪
• * 2.47

  Puerto Hermoso.
• * 2.48

  Or Gnats.
• * 2.49

  Where they tooke armes the first time against Indians.
• * 2.50

  Cuba.
• * 2.51

  S. Iago.
• * 2.52

  Baracoa.
• * 2.53

  Bayam••.
• * 2.54

  Puerto del Prin∣cipe. Sancti Spiritus.
• * 2.55

  El Albana, or the Hauana.
• * 2.56

  Puerto de Ca∣rennas.
• * 2.57

  Wherefore it was called the Slaughters.
• * 2.58

  Or Slaugh∣ters.
• f 2.59

  Or Red.
• * 2.60

  Chap. 7. Of the Ilands of Iamayca, S. Iohn, the Lu∣cayos, & the Caniballs.
• * 2.61

  Siuill, Melilla, & Oriston, inha∣bitings of Ia∣mayca.
• * 2.62

  Cape of Mo∣ranta.
• * 2.63

  The first ciuill warre among the Spaniards, was in Iamayca.
• n 2.64

  Or Lizards.
• o 2.65

  Or Negrillo.
• p 2.66

  Or open the eye.

  S. Iuan de puer∣to Rico.
• * 2.67

  S. Iohn.
• * 2.68

  The Arrecibo. Guadianilla. S. German.
• * 2.69

  The tree Ta∣bernacle.
• * 2.70

  The hauens of this Iland.
• * 2.71

  Who carried the Ginger to the Ilands of Barlouento. The Ilands of the Lucayos.
• * 2.72

  Where the Channell of Bahama is. Admirable Current. Baxos de Bimini
• * 2.73

  Guanahani the first Land that was discouered in the Indies.
• * 2.74

  Or Indian ••anibals. What a Cani∣ball signifieth.
• * 2.75

  The Caniba••••.
• * 2.76

  Men hunters.
• * 2.77

  Frier vnwhol∣some food.
• * 2.78

  The discouery of the Iland of the Trinitie, the yeare 1498
• * 2.79

  Arrogancie of Americus Ves∣pucius.
• * 2.80

  Wherfore men do say that the fishing of the Pearles passed from the Iland of Cubagua to the Margarita. Iland of Cuba∣gua.
• * 2.81

  Or the Friers
• * 2.82

  Chap. 8. Of Venezuela, riuer of Hacha, new Florida, and Gulfe of Noua Hispania, which is the rest that remaineth of the limits of this Counsell.
• * 2.83

  Wherefore it was called Ve∣nezuela, or lit∣tle Venice.
• * 2.84

  The Citie of Coro.
• * 2.85

  Our Lady of Carualleda.
• * 2.86

  S. Iago de Leon.
• * 2.87

  Xerez.
• * 2.88

  Segouia. Tucuyo.
• * 2.89

  Trucillo.
• * 2.90

  The Lake Ma∣racaybo.
• * 2.91

  The ports and points of the Gouernment of Venezuela.
• * 2.92

  Riuer Morauion
• * 2.93

  The Iland of Cubagua.
• * 2.94

  Strange Hogs.
• * 2.95

  An earthquake in the coast of Terra firme, the yeare 1530. ve∣ry admirable.
• * 2.96

  Margarit.
• * 2.97

  Florida.
• * 2.98

  The spring which Iohn Ponce did seeke that renued the old men.
• * 2.99

  They of Flori∣da knew nei∣ther Gold, Sil∣uer, nor Monie.
• * 2.100

  Porn, Capes, and Points of Florida.
• * 2.101

  Or Mosquitos. Slaughter of the French in Florida. See Hak. to 3.
• * 2.102

  The Coast of the North vnto the Baccallaos.
• * 2.103

  Or Los Gamos. The great Ri∣uer of S. Marie.
• * 2.104

  La•• Tortugas.
• * 2.105

  Ba••ia de Carlos.
• * 2.106

  The Gulfe of noua Espania.
• * 2.107

  The Channell of Bahama.
• * 2.108

  Chap. 9. Of the limits of the Coun∣cell of Mexico. Don Sebastian Ramirez Iudge of Granada go∣eth for Presi∣dent of S Do∣minicke.

  Great confor∣mity betweene Don Sebastian Ramirez and Don Hernando Cortes.
• * 2.109

  New Spaine.
• * 2.110

  Tenoxtitlan. Mexico descri∣bed, it is from Toledo 1740. leagues.
• * 2.111

  That is, the Sunne riseth eight houres sooner at Tole∣do, then at Me∣xico: which seemes not iustly calcula∣ted.
• * 2.112

  Suffraganes of the Archbisho∣pricke of Me∣xico.
• * 2.113

  L••s ciento y cinco cabeceras de doctrina. I thinke he mea∣neth some Pa∣rishionall diui∣sion, in each of which the Indians had their peculiar Pri••sts and Schooles of priests to teach them reli••ion. After in cap. ••5 he cals ••hem beneficios cura dos, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Per••onages.
• m 2.114

  Sc. of the life they led in the S••ewes.
• n 2.115

  From the World.
• * 2.116

  Don Sebastian Ramirez brought in the breeding and ploughing. Gouernment of Panuco.
• * 2.117

  S. Iago de los Valles.
• * 2.118

  Los Angelos.
• * 2.119

  The Bishop Don Sebastian Ramirez built the Citie of the Angels.
• d 2.120

  Vulcan or Bolcan, is a place whence fire issueth, as Etna, Hecla, &c
• * 2.121

  Tlascala.
• * 2.122

  The Valley of Atlisco famous.
• * 2.123

  La Veracruz. San Iuan de Vlua.
• * 2.124

  A kinde of Parish or Schoole diui∣sion. Spa. parti∣dos de doctrina▪
• * 2.125

  Chap. 10. Of the Bisho∣prickes of Gua∣xaca Mechoacan and Yucatan: & of the Pro∣uince of Tabas∣co, which is the rest of the bounds de∣scribed.
• * 2.126

  Guaxaca Title of the Mar∣quesse of the Valley.
• * 2.127

  Stinking Riuer
• * 2.128

  Tutepeque.
• * 2.129

  S. Alifonso of the Zapotecas.
• * 2.130

  S. Iames of Nexapa. El Espirito San∣to.
• * 2.131

  Golden Riuers
• * 2.132

  Cacao money and Wine.
• * 2.133

  The Indians should pay no Tithes.
• * 2.134

  Riuer of Alua∣rado.
• * 2.135

  Guatulco.
• * 2.136

  The Bisho∣pricke of Me∣choacan.
• * 2.137

  Pazcuaro.
• * 2.138

  Zinzonza.
• * 2.139

  Guanax••ato.
• * 2.140

  Re••les. Village of S. Michaell. The Concep∣tion of Salaya.
• * 2.141

  The Village of S. Phillip.
• * 2.142

  Zacatula.
• * 2.143

  Colima.
• * 2.144

  Yucatan.
• * 2.145

  It was a deuise of those which said the Cros∣ses were found of Latten in Yucatan, where∣as there neuer was Crosse in the Indies be∣fore the Spani∣ards.

  A Man of 300. yeares old.
• * 2.146

  Merida.
• * 2.147

  Valladolid.
• * 2.148

  Campeche.
• * 2.149

  Salamanca.
• * 2.150

  Shallow Coa∣sting.

  Tides.

  The Ports and points of this Gouernment.
• a 2.151

  Or Sharpe.
• b 2.152

  Or Bermeia.
• c 2.153

  Or Alacranes.
• * 2.154

  A famous wor∣shipping place of the Gentiles in Cozumel.
• * 2.155

  Or take away sleepe.
• * 2.156

  Tabasco.
• * 2.157

  Riuers of this Prouince. Lake of Xica∣lango.
• * 2.158

  Chap. 11. Of the bounds of the Counsel of Guadalaiara.
• * 2.159

  Guadalaiara.
• * 2.160

  The Holy Ghost. Sancta Marie of the Lakes.
• * 2.161

  The Chichime∣cas Sauages.
• * 2.162

  Xalisco.
• * 2.163

  The Zacatecas.
• * 2.164

  The Erena.
• * 2.165

  Or Sombrerece
• * 2.166

  The Name of God.
• * 2.167

  Nueua Vizcaya.
• * 2.168

  Chiametla.
• * 2.169

  S. Michael.
• * 2.170

  Ciualoa.
• * 2.171

  Quibira. Cibola.
• * 2.172

  California.
• * 2.173

  Chap. 12. Of the Bounds of the Counsel of S. Iames of Guatemala.
• a 2.174

  Or true Peace.
• b 2.175

  Or Rich coast.
• * 2.176

  Guatemala.
• * 2.177

  Saint Iames.
• * 2.178

  Saint Saluador.
• * 2.179

  The Trinitie.
• * 2.180

  Saint Michael.
• * 2.181

  Xerez.
• * 2.182

  Or fierie mouthes like Aetna.
• * 2.183

  Cacao descri∣bed.
• * 2.184

  Ports of this Gouernment.
• * 2.185

  Bottomlesse Lake. Soconusco.
• * 2.186

  Chiapa.
• * 2.187

  Or true peace.
• * 2.188

  Verapaz.
• * 2.189

  Picture fea∣thers.
• * 2.190

  Golf•• dulce.
• * 2.191

  Manati a fish described.
• * 2.192

  Chap. 13. Of Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, or the Rich Coast. Honduras.
• * 2.193

  Or of our Lady of the F••uour.

  Visitation of the Inginer Baptista Antone∣li of the way of the Port of Ca∣uallos or Horses, to the Bay of Fonseca.
• * 2.194

  Thankes bee to God.
• * 2.195

  Saint Peter.
• * 2.196

  Saint Iohn.
• * 2.197

  Truxillo.
• * 2.198

  Saint George.
• * 2.199

  Valley of O∣lancho.
• * 2.200

  Points and Ports of this Gouernment.
• * 2.201

  Or Shrimpe.
• * 2.202

  Babia honda. Cabo de Gracias a Dios.
• * 2.203

  Nicaragua.
• * 2.204

  Or rich Coast.
• * 2.205

  Granada▪
• * 2.206

  Lake of Nica∣ragua.

  Volcan of Mas∣sayatan and Mombacho.
• * 2.207

  Segouia.
• * 2.208

  Iaen.
• * 2.209

  Realeio.
• * 2.210

  Ports and Ri∣uers of this coast.
• * 2.211

  De Salinas.
• * 2.212

  Bruxelles.
• * 2.213

  Costa Rica▪
• * 2.214

  Aranjuez. Cartago.
• * 2.215

  Chap. 14. O•• the ••ndies of the South.
• * 2.216

  A great diffe∣rence of t••m∣perature in the two rowes of Piru.
• * 2.217

  The two rowes doe runne al∣most 1000. leagues equall.
• * 2.218

  Qualities of the Prouince of Collao.
• * 2.219

  Quantities of the Countrie of Panama, and her bounds.
• * 2.220

  Panama.
• * 2.221

  Portebello.
• * 2.222

  Saint Iames of Nata.
• * 2.223

  Acla.
• * 2.224

  A strange case of a Lizard.
• * 2.225

  Veragua.
• * 2.226

  The Conception. The Trinitie.
• * 2.227

  Holy Faith. Charles.
• * 2.228

  The Ports.
• * 2.229

  El Escudo.
• a 2.230

  Or L••c••sts.
• b 2.231

  Las Miras.
• c 2.232

  Or Little Pil∣cherd.
• d 2.233

  Or Pilchard.
• * 2.234

  Chap. 16. The limits of the Counsell of Sancta Fe of Bogota: which is the new Kingdome of Granada.
• * 2.235

  Holy Faith.
• * 2.236

  Lake of Gua∣tauita.
• * 2.237

  Saint Michael.
• * 2.238

  Tocayma.
• * 2.239

  The Trinitie.
• * 2.240

  Or Flies.
• * 2.241

  The Palma.
• * 2.242

  Tunia.
• * 2.243

  Pamplona.
• * 2.244

  Or Crying.
• * 2.245

  Merida.
• * 2.246

  Belez.
• * 2.247

  Thunderbolts.
• * 2.248

  Mariquita.
• * 2.249

  Ybague.
• * 2.250

  Victorie de los Remedios.

  Saint Iohn of the Plaines.
• * 2.251

  Or Flyes.
• * 2.252

  Or Water∣course.

  Rio Grande or Magd••len Riuer.
• * 2.253

  Sancta Martha.
• * 2.254

  Tenerife.
• * 2.255

  Tamalameque.
• * 2.256

  The Kings.
• a 2.257

  Sancta Ramada
• * 2.258

  Ocan••a.
• b 2.259

  Or Yong Pi∣geon.
• c 2.260

  Or Nookes.
• d 2.261

  Or the Needle. Cartagena.
• * 2.262

  Citie of Carta∣gena.
• * 2.263

  Amazonian women.
• * 2.264

  Valiant Virago.
• * 2.265

  Saint Iames of Tolu.
• * 2.266

  The Village of Marie.
• * 2.267

  Holy Crosse.
• * 2.268

  Saint Sebastian.
• * 2.269

  Or Water∣course.
• * 2.270

  The Barranca.
• * 2.271

  El Darad••. Guiana.
• * 2.272

  Great Tydes.
• * 2.273

  Piru, or Peru.
• * 2.274

  The two Rowes of the Indies of the South.
• * 2.275

  Of Magellan.
• * 2.276

  The two great wayes of Piru.
• * 2.277

  Postes.
• * 2.278

  Piru is not all the Indies of the South.
• * 2.279

  Los Llanos. Las Sierras.
• * 2.280

  Diuersitie of nature.
• * 2.281

  Chap. 17. Of the Coun∣cell of Saint Francis of the Quito.
• * 2.282

  Or Cyna∣mon.
• * 2.283

  El Quito.
• * 2.284

  Aire and sea∣sons.
• * 2.285

  Athanalpa or 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪
• * 2.286

  Friars de la M••r••ed, or our Lady of Grace.
• * 2.287

  Riuer Bamba▪
• * 2.288

  Cuenca.
• * 2.289

  Loxa.
• * 2.290

  Or Briar.
• * 2.291

  Zamora.
• * 2.292

  Iaen.
• * 2.293

  Saint Michael of Piura.
• * 2.294

  Raine a won∣der.
• * 2.295

  Payta.
• * 2.296

  High-way ad∣mirable.
• * 2.297

  San Iago de Guayaquil.
• * 2.298

  The Riuers that g••e to the North Sea are greater then those ••hat goe to the South S••a.

  H••w the riuers are passed in Piru.
• * 2.299

  Castro.
• * 2.300

  Vili.
• * 2.301

  Or old Por••.
• * 2.302

  Manta.
• * 2.303

  How the Eme∣ralds do grow.
• * 2.304

  Ports & Points of the co••st of this gouern∣ment.
• c 2.305

  Or Nooke.
• d 2.306

  Or Puc••e. A towne 〈◊〉〈◊〉 blacke Moores.
• e 2.307

  Or white Cape.
• f 2.308

  Or woolues.
• * 2.309

  The Giant•• of the Point of Santa Helena.
• * 2.310

  Chap. 18▪ Of Popayan▪ Quixos, Canela, Pacamor••s, and Gualsongo, which are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 rest of the bounds of the Councell of Quito.

  The Citie of Popayan.
• * 2.311

  Cali.
• * 2.312

  Or great Cappes.
• * 2.313

  Antiochia.
• * 2.314

  Caramanta.
• * 2.315

  Arma.
• * 2.316

  Canibals. Inhumanitie of the Indians of the borders of Arma.
• * 2.317

  Ancerma.
• * 2.318

  Cartago.
• * 2.319

  Or Buffes.
• * 2.320

  Timana.
• * 2.321

  Inhumanitie of these In∣dians.

  Where the Load-stone is found.
• * 2.322

  Or eaters of humane flesh.

  Buga. Saint Sebastian of the Plate.
• c 2.323

  Or Canibals.
• * 2.324

  Almaguer.
• d 2.325

  Hisp. Iudge of Residencia.
• * 2.326

  Truxillo.
• * 2.327

  Agreda.
• * 2.328

  Saint Iohn de Pastor.
• * 2.329

  Religion.
• * 2.330

  What the Aet∣naes are, and whereof they proceede.
• e 2.331

  Or the ranke Village of Pa∣sture.
• * 2.332

  Neyua.
• * 2.333

  Saint Vincent.
• * 2.334

  The Angels.
• * 2.335

  Riuers, Capes, and Points of the Coast of this gouern∣ment.
• f 2.336

  Or Cedars.
• * 2.337

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gualsongo▪
• * 2.338

  In how many sorts the gold is gotten out in Piru, and o∣ther places.
• * 2.339

  Barleuento.
• * 2.340

  Chap. 19. Of the bounds of the Councel or Audience of The Kings, or los Reyes.
• * 2.341

  Mountaines cause that it rayneth not in the Playnes of Piru.
• h 2.342

  Some are of opinion that all plants and trees are nou∣rished by va∣pours: yea that the vapours of the bloud nou∣rish liuing Creatures. So Gen. 2. a mist in Paradise, &c. The Sunne as Head of the World, the Hart as Sunne in the Body, causeth nou∣rishment by vapours.
• * 2.343

  The Citie of The Kings, or los Reyes.
• * 2.344

  Such holinesse of faith, such meanes to e∣stablish it, force gluing lips and Lettice toge∣ther, as Acosta complayneth. Vniuersitie and Iesuites.

  Sea cooleth.
• * 2.345

  Women and Negros. Arnedo.
• * 2.346

  Or Gridir••ni
• * 2.347

  Truxillo.
• * 2.348

  Miraflores.
• * 2.349

  Chachapoyas.
• * 2.350

  Faire Indians.
• * 2.351

  Saint Iames of the Valleys.
• * 2.352

  Lion of Gua∣nuco.
• * 2.353

  Qualities of the Millet.
• * 2.354

  Guamanga.
• * 2.355

  Great buil∣dings.
• * 2.356

  Transplanting as of Egyptians Gen. 42.21. the Israelites, 2. Reg. 17. Iewes to Bab. &c.
• * 2.357

  Temple of the Sunne.
• * 2.358

  Chap. 20. Of that which remayneth of the Councell of the Kings.
• * 2.359

  Profit of quick siluer.
• * 2.360

  Spring turning into stone, and k••lling.
• * 2.361

  Hot and cold Bathes.
• * 2.362

  Salt spring. Cordilleras or rowes diuided. Collao.
• * 2.363

  The Lake Titi∣caca.
• * 2.364

  Cuzco.
• * 2.365

  Foure high wayes most admired.
• * 2.366

  No venemous wormes.
• * 2.367

  Coca a tree.
• * 2.368

  Saint Francis of the victorie.
• * 2.369

  Saint Iohn of the Gold.
• * 2.370

  Arequipa.
• * 2.371

  Earth-quakes in the Indies very terrible and strange.
• * 2.372

  From whence the earth-quakes doe proceede.
• * 2.373

  Saint Michael of the Riber.
• * 2.374

  Valverde.
• * 2.375

  Guarco.
• * 2.376

  Fertilitie with∣out raine. Pilchards.
• * 2.377

  Ocanna.
• * 2.378

  Ports, Capes, and Points of these Bounds of the Counsel of The Kings.
• * 2.379

  Chap. 21. Of the Bounds of the Counsel or Audience of the Plate, or of Charcas.
• * 2.380

  Heredades de grangerias.
• * 2.381

  Our Lady of the Peace.
• * 2.382

  Chicuito.
• * 2.383

  Oropesa.
• * 2.384

  Potosi.
• * 2.385

  Arica.
• * 2.386

  Porco.
• * 2.387

  The holy crosse of the Hill.
• * 2.388

  This Apostle after his mira∣cles, many was for wickednes hanged at Po∣tozi. See Ac. l. 7. c. 27.
• * 2.389

  Ports & Points of this Coun∣sell.
• * 2.390

  Los Farallones.
• * 2.391

  Punta Blanca. Quebrada Hon∣da.

  Prouince of Tucaman.
• * 2.392

  Saint Iames of the Marsh.
• * 2.393

  Talauera. Saint Michael. New London.
• h 2.394

  Hisp. Nueua Cordura.
• l 2.395

  A kinde of Thistle that groweth euery stemme foure inches square; and as high as a man on horse backe, and ta∣keth much ground, for there grow many out o•• one roote.
• * 2.396

  Chap. 22. Of the bounds of the King∣dome of Chile.
• * 2.397

  Rio de la Sal.
• * 2.398

  Saint Iames.
• * 2.399

  The Serena.
• * 2.400

  Raines seldom and ••euer. Coquimbo.
• * 2.401

  Mendoza. Saint Iohn of the Frontier.
• * 2.402

  Now village of the Infants.
• * 2.403

  The Imperiall.
• * 2.404

  Hisp. Villa∣rica.
• d 2.405

  Cordillera Neuada.
• * 2.406

  Valdinia.
• * 2.407

  Os••rno.
• * 2.408

  Castro.
• g 2.409

  Oro ••olador.
• * 2.410

  Ports and Ri∣uers of this go∣uernment.
• e 2.411

  Or Horse∣shooe.
• * 2.412

  Chap. 24. Of the Prouin∣ces of the Streight.
• * 2.413

  Ports, Capes, and Points of these two Coasts.
• g 2.414

  Hisp. Alcar∣ch••fado, of the colour of an Artichoke.

  Or Ferdinando of Gallicia.
• * 2.415

  Sir Richard Hawkins.
• * 2.416

  Streight of Magellan.
• * 2.417

  This is not true: for Cap∣taine Winter & others haue done it; which howsoeuer he cals Pi••ats, yet they haue bet∣ter descouered these Straights then the Spani∣ards.
• * 2.418

  Or Vine Twig.
• * 2.419

  Or Ordinance.
• * 2.420

  Hisp. rio Galle∣go.
• * 2.421

  Chap. 24. Of the Prouin∣ces of the Ri∣uer of Plate, & of Brasile.

  Sebastian Gabo∣te remaineth in the Riuer of Solis, which is called of the Plate. He was an English-man by breeding, borne a Vene∣tian, but spen∣ding most part of his life in England and English imploy∣ments.

  See the former Booke.

  Plentifulnesse of the Prouin∣ces of the Ri∣uer of Plate.
• * 2.422

  The Assump∣tion.
• * 2.423

  Note.
• * 2.424

  Cirdad real.
• * 2.425

  Fall or Cata∣ract very terri∣ble.
• * 2.426

  Or Good ayres
• * 2.427

  Ports and Points of this Coast.
• b 2.428

  Hisp. Puerto cer∣rado. Riopoblado. Babia onda.
• * 2.429

  Riuer of Plate.
• * 2.430

  The chance of the Captaine Salazar with a Tigre.
• * 2.431

  Tigre killeth and is killed.
• * 2.432

  Chap. 25. Of the Prouin∣ces and Coun∣trie of Brasil.
• * 2.433

  Vincent Yanes Pinzon, borne in the Village of Palos disco∣uered the Brasil, and then Diego de Lepe.
• * 2.434

  Inhabitings of the Coast of Brasil.
• * 2.435

  Many Iesuites Colledges.
• * 2.436

  Puerto seguro.
• * 2.437

  Ambar.
• * 2.438

  The principal∣lest Ports of this Coast.
• * 2.439

  Cabo Frio.
• * 2.440

  Chap. 26. Of those which men call the Indies of the West, which are the Ilands Phi∣lippinas, coast of China, Ia••an, and the Lequias.
• * 2.441

  Of these ••ee l. 4 c. 1. and other English voi••ges in the first Tome.

  See Magelanes Voyage. ••om. 1. l. 2.

  Certaine Tree bearing a kind of Date.
• * 2.442

  Cinamon and long Pepper.
• * 2.443

  In Màtan it was where Ferdinan∣do Magelanes was slaine.
• * 2.444

  Aluaro of Saaue∣••ra tooke pos∣session of the Philippine for the Crowne of Castile, in the yeare 1527.
• * 2.445

  The Citie of Manilla.
• * 2.446

  His voiage you haue before. 11000. Ilands.
• * 2.447

  Since, the Hol∣landers haue expelled the Portugals.
• * 2.448

  China: see our former Rela∣tion.
• * 2.449

  The Prouinces and Kingdoms of China.
• * 2.450

  Macao▪
• * 2.451

  Or Terra firme
• * 2.452

  Ainan.
• * 2.453

  Iapan.
• * 2.454

  Characters as Ciphers.
• * 2.455

  Lequios.
• * 2.456

  Chap. 27. Of the new Guinea, Ilands of Salomon, and the Theeues, whe••ewith en∣deth that which they cal West Indies. The Lequ••os▪ Sir R. Hawkins.
• * 2.457

  Ilands and Ports of the coast of Guin••••▪
• a 2.458

  Or Curled.
• b 2.459

  Hisp. Puntasa∣lida. Buena p••z.
• c 2.460

  Abrigo.
• * 2.461

  Ilands of Sal••∣mon.
• * 2.462

  I. de Arrazi••••s.
• d 2.463

  Or Good ••ight.
• e 2.464

  Or Boughes.
• f 2.465

  Or Franticke.
• * 2.466

  Hisp. Nombre de Dios.
• g 2.467

  Or Candle∣masse.
• * 2.468

  La Ingles•• Ilands of the Ladrones. La Ingle••a. The Kings. Ilands o•• Cerral The Gardens.
• g 2.469

  Or Aethnaes.
• h 2.470

  Or Euill haire
• * 2.471

  A Tree so called.

  Two sisters. S. Bartholomew.
• * 2.472

  Martin. Saint Peter, and Saint Paul.
• * 2.473

  Chap. 28. Of the ••uprem Counsel of the Indies, and of the spirituall gouernment, and Ecclesiasti∣call Royall Pa∣tronage.

  Counsell of the Indies.
• * 2.474

  How many Archbishop∣ricks, Bishop∣ricks, Mona∣steries, and Schooles of Doctrine are in the Indies. So Humillade∣••os is said to signifie the translator had, Shrines: the la∣tine hath P••••∣nitentiarij.
• * 2.475

  How the Ec∣clesiasticall Patronage is gouerned.
• * 2.476

  Of Images or Pictures.
• * 2.477

  Las 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 2.478

  He con••inueth the gouerne∣ment o•• the Ecclesiasticall Patronage.
• * 2.479

  Or Pentioners.
• * 2.480

  Prouision of the Prebends, and Benefices▪
• * 2.481

  Chap. 29. Of the Sp••••itu∣all Gouerne∣ment, Goods of Men decea∣sed: of the married: and of the holy of∣fice of the holy and general In∣quisition.

  Building of an Hospitall.
• * 2.482

  Orders for the goods o•• ••he deceased.
• * 2.483

  Touching mar∣ried men.
• * 2.484

  The holy Of∣fice of the In∣quisition.
• * 2.485

  Chap. 30. Of the forme of the gouern∣ment of the su∣preame Coun∣sell of the In∣dies, and of the Institution of the Counsels, and Chanceries royall of those parts.
• * 2.486

  Appeales.
• d 2.487

  Which is 100. pound English, taking two Ry∣als for one shil∣ling.
• e 2.488

  Which as we accompt 441. pound 3 shil∣lings and one third part of a pennie.
• * 2.489

  He continueth the order•• of the supreame Counsell.
• * 2.490

  I••stitution of the Courts royall of the Indies.
• * 2.491

  The Court of the Hispanyo••a.
• * 2.492

  Or Ordinary Iustice, &c.
• * 2.493

  The Court of Mexico.
• * 2.494

  The Court of Panama.
• * 2.495

  Wherefore it was called Ter∣ra firme.
• * 2.496

  Court of the Citie of the Kings.
• * 2.497

  The Court of Guatemala.
• * 2.498

  The Court of the new King∣dome.

  The Court of the new King∣dome of Galicia
• * 2.499

  The Court of Quito.
• * 2.500

  The Court of the Charcas.
• * 2.501

  Counsell of Panama.
• * 2.502

  Sc. a Soldiour. The Court of the Phillipines.
• * 2.503

  Chap. 31. Of the things that are proui∣ded in the su∣preme Coun∣cell of the In∣dies with con∣sulta••ion of the Kings.
• * 2.504

  The gouern∣ments which the King pro∣uideth in the Indies.
• * 2.505

  The Rulerships that his Maie∣stie doth pro∣uide,
• * 2.506

  Or the name of God.
• * 2.507

  That which is forbidden the Vice-royes, and Iudges.
• * 2.508

  Where herd•• of Cattell are bred.
• * 2.509

  Chap. 32. Wherein hee continueth the matter of the good go∣uernment of the Indies.
• * 2.510

  Interpreters.
• * 2.511

  Schooles for Indians to learne the Spa∣nish tongue.
• * 2.512

  Sc. of the Ca∣stillanes, and the Countriwo∣men.
• * 2.513

  Or accompts of the Iudges, or Iustices.
• * 2.514

  That they be no slaues.
• * 2.515

  About vnquiet persons.
• * 2.516

  Matters of warre.
• * 2.517

  The house of contrataction of Siuil.
• * 2.518

  Instruction of the Councell of Camara, or of Houshold.
• * 2.519

  That the Indies shall not bee alienated.
• * 4.1

  Or of the examination of a Iudge or Iustice, or o∣ther Officer after their time is expired, to see if any will complaine of any wrong done to him in that time, and to pay the da∣mage so sustai∣ned by his de∣fault.
• * 5.1

  Lib. 1. cap. 5.
• * 5.2

  Plin. lib. ••. c. 22.
• * 5.3

  See 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Voyage.
• * 5.4

  Height taken by the Sunne.
• * 5.5

  Via lactea.
• * 5.6

  Shewing the reason why the Sunne without the Tropicks, causeth grea∣test quantitie of waters when it is farthest off; and con∣trariwise, with∣in them it bree∣deth most, when it is nee∣rest. l. 2. chap. 7.
• * 5.7

  Exceptions to generall rules▪
• * 5.8

  The Authors experience.
• * 5.9

  Various and diuersified tempers of the Torrid Zone.
• * 5.10

  Causes of tem∣peraten••sse vnder the Line and within the Tropicks.
• * 5.11

  Second cause.
• * 5.12

  That there bee other reasons besides the for∣mer mentio∣ned, which shew, that the burning Zone is temperate, especially a∣longst the O∣cean. Chap. 11.
• * 5.13

  Arist. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 5.14

  Dionys. c. 15. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 c••••l. ••ierar.
• * 5.15

  That the cold windes bee the principal cause to make the burning Zone temperate. Chap. 13.

  It is noted by trauellers that there is a hot winde some∣times neere to Balsara and Or∣mus which swalloweth mens breath and suddenly kils them. Lin∣schoten obserue at Goa the wind to blow twelue houres from the Sea, and other twelue constantly from the land.
• * 5.16

  Temper of the Indies.
• * 5.17

  Of the windes, their differen∣ces, properties, and causes in generall lib. 3. cap. 2.
• * 5.18

  We haue ab∣breuiated and to preuent te∣diousnesse cut off a great part of Acostas ob∣seruations in the two former bookes, as ha∣uing handled the same in our Pilgrimage l. 8. where we haue shewed whence men and beasts might come thither, and that the opini∣on of the worlds vnhabi∣tablenesse be∣twixt the Tro∣picks is false: for the daily raines when the Sunne is neerest, the long nights & therein great dewes, the bree∣zes and con∣stant course of the windes, the great Lakes & Riuers, height of Hills, &c. make those parts not onely habitable, but more tempe∣rate then o∣thers and fitter for mans life: there being more heat at, and on this side the Tro∣picks then vn∣der the Line. We here doe but cull ou•• choise things for better vn∣derstanding the naturall historie of those parts; for other things refer∣ring the Rea∣der to the Authour himselfe. Occasionally our notes shall elucidate those things also, which are in the Text omitted.
• * 5.19

  Vulcans, as Aet••••, Hecla, &c. sulphurous earth whence ••••re issueth. Generall windes▪ Monso••••▪ Windes receiue their qualities from the places by which they passe.
• * 5.20

  Psalme 134. Ieremie 10.
• * 5.21

  Herera hath shewed the height of the Hills to bee the cause of the windes con∣stancy and raines raritie.
• * 5.22

  Eastern winde raineth be∣twixt the Tro∣picks.

  That the bur∣ning Zone, the Brises, or Ea∣sterly windes, doe continual∣ly blow, and without the Zone the We∣sterne, and that the Easterly are ordinarie alwayes there. Chap. 4.

  Iuan de Gacos in Decade 1. lib. 4. cap. 6. They goe one way to the In∣dies and return another, why.
• * 5.23

  Sayling 2700. leagues with∣out sight of Land in two moneths. See Candishes voy∣age.
• * 5.24

  Cause of the Brises.
• * 5.25

  Motion of the Primum Mobile carrieth the inferiour aire with it.
• * 5.26

  The Comet 1577. seene eight dayes sooner in Peru then in Spaine.
• * 5.27

  The Brize (or motion of the air with the heauens) is a winde.
• * 5.28

  Why withou•• the Zone, in a greater alt••∣tude, we finde alwaies We∣sterly windes. Chap. 7.

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 windes.
• * 5.29

  Of the excep∣tions to the foresaid Rules, & of the winds and calmes both at Land and at Sea. Chap. 8.

  Cause of the variety of windes.
• * 5.30

  Simile.
• * 5.31

  Note.
• * 5.32

  Of some mar∣uellous effects of the windes, which are in some parts of the Indies. Chap. 9.

  Silkewormes killed with South-west windes. Exo. c. 10. & 14. Iob 17. Ioan 4. Os••e 13. Dan. 3.

  The like Lins∣choten obser∣ueth in the Terceras.
• * 5.33

  Sea sicknesse whence.
• * 5.34

  Agitation and Sea ayre.
• * 5.35

  Strange passi∣on at Pariacaca by the ayre there.
• * 5.36

  Height of Pari∣acaca.
• * 5.37

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 too subtile for mens bo∣dies. So we see Horses to beate the water with their feete to make it more grosse and thereby more agreeable to their bodies.
• * 5.38

  Vicunos.
• * 5.39

  Great Desart.
• * 5.40

  Punas ayre kil••ing.
• * 5.41

  Strange Story.
• * 5.42

  The same con∣firmed by a Ie∣suites report, and a Domini∣cans.
• * 5.43

  Such effects of cold w•• haue obserued in Russia, and o∣ther Northern parts: and the like Master Kniuet will tell▪ vs at the Mag∣gelan Straits.
• * 5.44

  No Mediterra∣nean Sea of great note in America.
• * 5.45

  Terra firme.
• * 5.46

  Straight of land but eight leag. betwixt North & South Seas.
• * 5.47

  Herodotus.
• * 5.48

  Iouius▪
• * 5.49

  Experience in Drakes and Maires voyage haue found them no straights but broken Ilands to the South, contrary to our Author here.
• * 5.50

  See of this Sir Francis Drakes Voyage. to. 1. l. 2 I haue omit∣ted Sarmientoes voiage. &c. The supposed Straight in Florida.
• * 5.51

  Of the ebbing and flowing of the Indian O∣cean. Chap. 14. The Philoso∣phers in search¦ing the cause of ebbing and flowing haue easily erred, following the Greekes and La∣tines which knew not the Ocean, and could not ther∣fore know the cause.
• * 5.52

  Hernando A∣lonso which with Sarmiento had gone to the Straights to seeke Cap∣taine Drake.
• * 5.53

  At the Downes on our coast two tides meet one from the Westerne Sea or slewe, the other from the North, which there cause much varietie.
• * 5.54

  Of sundry Fishers, and their manner of fishing at the Indies.
• * 5.55

  The Manati a strange fish. The Whales also bring forth their yong aliue, and nourish them with their brests, being in that huge crea∣ture scarce twice so big as the breasts of a woman, and farre lesse then those of many women. Their foode is also Sea weedes. Sharking sharkes.
• * 5.56

  They haue rough heads whereby they cleaue and sticke fast to the Sharke, which thus are forced to ca••ry them with their swift motion, of whose off all also they liue. Crocodiles.
• * 5.57

  Yet so as euer and anon hee dips it in the water his tongue being so short, that otherwise he could not swal∣low it.

  Tigre kils a Crocodile.
• * 5.58

  Indians exploit on a Crocodile
• * 5.59

  Whale killed by the Sauages
• * 5.60

  Of Lakes and Pooles that be at the Indies. Chap. 16.
• * 5.61

  Thicke water.
• * 5.62

  Fishes and fishing.
• * 5.63

  Originall of Lakes.
• * 5.64

  Greatest riuers flow from Lakes.
• * 5.65

  Hot Lake, and many wonders thereof.
• * 5.66

  Lakes of Mex∣ico salt and fresh.
• * 5.67

  R••ch Lake.
• * 5.68

  Of many and diuers Springs and Fountains Chap. 17.
• * 5.69

  Hot Spring turning into Stone.
• * 5.70

  Fountaine of Pitch.
• * 5.71

  Cold and hot Springs toge∣ther.
• * 5.72

  Salt Spring which yeeldes Sal•• without boiling.
• * 5.73

  Pocke-••pring.
• * 5.74

  Smoak Spring.
• * 5.75

  Inke, &c.
• * 5.76

  Of Riuers. Chap. 18.

  Maragnon or Amazons.
• * 5.77

  Water-fall.
• * 5.78

  Golden thirst.
• * 5.79

  Riuer of Plata, increasing as Nilus.
• * 5.80

  How they passe their Riuers.
• * 5.81

  Haire and Straw Bridges.
• * 5.82

  L. 3. C. 19▪
• * 5.83

  Decay of peo∣ple in the Indies by the Spani∣ards.
• * 5.84

  Corn ground••▪
• * 5.85

  The Indies mountainous, and thereby temperate.
• * 5.86

  Of the proper∣ties of the land of Peru. Chap. 20
• * 5.87

  One winde onely.
• * 5.88

  The Plaines, the hils, and the Andes. See sup. in Herera.
• * 5.89

  Raine almost euer, and al∣most neuer.
• * 5.90

  Diuers Beasts.
• * 5.91

  Their bread.
• * 5.92

  The reason why it raines on the Lanos, along the Sea coast. Chap. 21.
• * 5.93

  Of the proper∣tie of new Spaine, of the Ilands, and of other Lands. Chap. 22.

  Peru wine.
• * 5.94

  Sugar workes and Hides.
• * 5.95

  Indians wasted.
• * 5.96

  Of the vn∣knowne Land, and the diuer∣sitie of a whole day, betwixt them of the East and the West. Chap. 23.
• * 5.97

  Of the Volcans or Vents of fire. Chap. 24.
• * 5.98

  Terrible earth∣quake at Gua∣timala.
• * 5.99

  Couetous Priest.
• * 5.100

  Causes of this burning.
• * 5.101

  Basil. Psal. 28. & in exa••.
• * 5.102

  Of Earth∣quakes. Cap. 26.
• * 5.103

  Great earth∣quakes.
• * 5.104

  Noyse before the earthquake.
• * 5.105

  Why the Sea coast is subiect to earth∣quakes.
• * 5.106

  Earthquake at Ferrara ter∣rible.
• * 5.107

  A•• Angoango.
• * 5.108

  Metals grow as plants.
• * 5.109

  Animalia.
• * 5.110

  Arist. 5. Ethic. cap. 5.
• * 5.111

  Eccles. 10.
• * 5.112

  Of the qualitie and nature of the earth wher the metals are found, and that all these metals are not im∣ployed at the Indies, and how the Indians v∣sed them. l. 4. Chap. 3.

  Plin. lib. 5. de Genes. mund. Euseb. lib. 8. de praepar. euang. cap. 9.
• * 5.113

  No money of gold, but of fruits, &c.
• * 5.114

  Plin. lib. 33. c. 3.
• * 5.115

  Plin. lib. 33. c. 4.
• * 5.116

  Coine of lea∣ther.
• * 5.117

  Of gold which they digge and refine at the Indies. Chap. 4.
• * 5.118

  Plin. lib. 33. c. 3.
• * 5.119

  Apoc. 3. & 21. Cant. 3. Psal. 67. 3. Reg. 6.
• * 5.120

  See before in I. dos Santos, and in Herrera.
• * 5.121

  Plin. lib. 3. cap. 4.
• * 5.122

  Of the Siluer at the Indies. Chap. 5.
• * 5.123

  Note.
• * 5.124

  Of the Moun∣taine or Hill of Potozi, and the discouery thereof. Chap. 6.
• * 5.125

  Euery piece is worth thir∣teene Rials and a fourth part.
• * 5.126

  Plin. lib. 33. c. 6.
• * 5.127

  Huge summes of siluer.
• * 5.128

  E••••aim.
• * 5.129

  Preciosa pericu∣la, Speciosa supplicia.
• * 5.130

  Intolerable paines and darknesse in the Mynes, and if in the Mindes farre more intole∣rable remay∣ning.
• * 5.131

  Euery Arobe is 25. pound.
• * 5.132

  Plin. in proem. lib. 33. cap. 6.
• * 5.133

  How they re∣fine the metall of siluer. Chap. 9.
• * 5.134

  Plin. l. 33. c. 6.
• * 5.135

  Sympathie with gold.
• * 5.136

  Plin. l. 33. c. 6▪
• * 5.137

  Of the place where they finde quick-siluer, and how they discoue∣red these rich mynes in Gu∣ancavilca. Chap. 11.
• * 5.138

  Labirinths.
• * 5.139

  Mines of Quick-siluer found.
• * 5.140

  The manner how to draw out Quick sil∣uer, and how they refine Silu••r. Chap. 12.
• * 5.141

  Dangers by Quick-siluer. Force of Straw Pl••n. l. 33. c. 4. Abundance of Mettals.
• * 5.142

  Manner of working.
• * 5.143

  Fine Siluer for worke must be alloyed.
• * 5.144

  Mat. 3. Eccles. 2. Psal. 11.
• * 5.145

  Of their En∣gins to gr••nde the Mettall, and of their triall of Siluer. Chap. 13.
• * 5.146

  Pli lib. 37. ca. 3.
• * 5.147

  A pretty storie
• * 5.148

  How Emeralds grow.
• * 5.149

  Admirable E∣merald.
• * 5.150

  Church of Cor∣duba.
• * 5.151

  Of Pearles. Chap. 15.
• * 5.152

  Plin. lib. 3. ca. 35.
• * 5.153

  Cleopatras va∣ni••y.
• * 5.154

  Pearle fishings.
• * 5.155

  Manner there∣of.
• * 5.156

  Long winded slaues.
• * 5.157

  Of the Indian Bread, and of Mays. Chap. 16.
• * 5.158

  We call it also Virginia wheat.
• * 5.159

  How it groweth
• * 5.160

  I haue had it ripen reasona∣bly in my Gar∣den in ••ssex.
• * 5.161

  Malt & strong drinke made of it.
• * 5.162

  Chica good a∣gainst the Stone.
• * 5.163

  Of Yucas, Caça∣ui▪ Papas, Chunes and Ri••. Chap. 17.
• * 5.164

  Iuice of Caçaui poison.
• * 5.165

  Wheat, why it groweth not in those parts▪
• * 5.166

  Papas and Chuno.
• * 5.167

  Of diuers roots which grow at the In∣dies, Chap. 18.
• * 5.168

  Of diuers sorts of green hearbs and Pulses, and of those they call Concom∣bres, Pines, or Pine Apples, small fruits of Chille, and of Prunes. Cha. 19.
• * 5.169

  Pines.
• * 5.170

  Pulses, Melons and Pompe••s carried out of Europe and thriuing better there.
• * 5.171

  These Calibasses seeme the Guin∣ny Gourds car∣ried from the African coast thither.
• * 5.172

  Of Axi or Indi∣an Pepper. Chap. 20.
• * 5.173

  Ginger.
• * 5.174

  Of the Plane tree. Chap. 21.
• * 5.175

  Plin. lib. 2. cap. 1.
• * 5.176

  Pli. lib. 11. ca. 16.
• * 5.177

  Of Cacao and Coca. Chap. 2••.
• * 5.178

  Cacao money.
• * 5.179

  Coca.
• * 5.180

  Of Maguey Tu∣nal, Cocheuille. Anir, and Cot∣ton. Chap. 23.
• * 5.181

  Maguey.
• * 5.182

  Manifold com∣modities of the Maguey.
• * 5.183

  Tunall tree.
• * 5.184

  I thinke hee meaneth Anill or Indico: of which see To. 1, l 4. in ••i••che•• Iournall. Cotten.
• * 5.185

  Of Mameys, G••auyanos, and P••ltos. Chap. 24.
• * 5.186

  Chicopotes.
• * 5.187

  Of many sorts of fruit Trees, of Cocos, Al∣monds, of the Andes, and Al∣monds of Cha∣chapoyas. Cha 26
• * 5.188

  Cocos.
• * 5.189

  Almonds.
• * 5.190

  Of many and diuer••flowers, and of some trees which yeelde onely a flower, & how the Indians doe vse them. Ch. 27.
• * 5.191

  Accidents pro∣duce most arts.
• * 5.192

  Of Balme.
• * 5.193

  Plin. lib. 12. c. 15▪ Chap. 28.
• * 5.194

  Strab. lib. 16. Geograp.
• * 5.195

  Of Amber, and other Oyles, Gummes, and Drugs, which they bring from the Indies Chap. 29.
• * 5.196

  Cas. Fistula. Salceparilla.
• * 5.197

  Lig••um vi••ae.
• * 5.198

  Auncient Phy∣sicians.
• * 5.199

  Strange trauil.
• * 5.200

  Great Tree.
• * 5.201

  Plin. lib. 12. c. 1.
• * 5.202

  Of Plants and fruites which haue bin c••rri∣ed out of Spain to the Indies. Chap. 31.
• * 5.203

  Natures hus∣bandrie.
• * 5.204

  Of Grapes, Vines, Oliues, Mulberries, and Canes of Sugar. Chap. 32.
• * 5.205

  Grapes all the yeere.
• * 5.206

  Strange fructi∣fying.
• * 5.207

  Oliues but no Oile.
• * 5.208

  Of beasts bea∣ring wooll, and of Kine. Cap. 33.
• * 5.209

  Europaean beasts.
• * 5.210

  Store of sheep.
• * 5.211

  Store of Kine.
• * 5.212

  Wilde herds.
• * 5.213

  Killed only for the hides.
• * 5.214

  Almost 100000 hides trans∣ported at once. How rich might Virginia be∣come, if!
• * 5.215

  Horses.
• * 5.216

  Asses. Camels. Dogs multi∣plyed to noy∣somnesse.
• * 5.217

  Indian Dogs.
• * 5.218

  Of some beasts of Europe, vvhich the Spaniards found at the Indies, and how they should passe thither. Cap. 34. No••e.
• * 5.219

  But vvhere? our Nauigati∣ons beyond 80. haue shew∣ed open and vvid•• Seas be∣tvvixt. Lions.

  Circles are v∣sed in hunting by Persians, Tartars, &c. Tigres.
• * 5.220

  Beares. Be••s.
• * 5.221

  Foxes and beasts of spoile.
• * 5.222

  Deere vvith∣out hornes.
• * 5.223

  Of Fovvles vvhich are ••ere and are at th•• Indies, and hovv they could passe thither. Cap. 35.
• * 5.224

  Plin. lib. 10. c ••3▪
• * 5.225

  Plin. l 10. c. 25.
• * 5.226

  Estridges.
• * 5.227

  Hennes.
• * 5.228

  How it should be possible, that at the Indies there should be any sorts of beasts, whereof the like are no where else. Chap. 36.
• * 5.229

  The same pro∣uidence which brought all beasts and fowles from all their natiue diuersified residencies thorow all the world to the Arke (which no naturall instinct in such antipa∣thies and at once, could doe) and kept them safe in the Arke, did also dispose them to their designed abodes after. For I hold it vnchristian with Mercator to say, America was not drowned with the Floud. And the same scruple might bee made for beasts, &c. in other parts; the t••mper of the Arke, or of the place where the Arke rested, not agree∣ing naturally to the Zebra, Elephant, Riuer-horse, Crocodile, and many other hott••r creatures of Africa; nor to the other peculiar crea∣tures of many other Regions. In things aboue nature (as is both the historie and mysterie of the Arke) we must flee necessarily to a super∣naturall cause. For except wee would imagine the most part of the Sea to haue beene lands or Ilands from beyond the cold Magellan to the coldest Purchas plus vltra▪ that is from 57. South latitude, to aboue 81. of North latitude, all the Sea is known, and voyages many in this work deliuerd which ex••ludes al possibilitie of such passages of beasts especially such as cannot endure cold, as our Author imagineth. For men in boats, that might happen accidentally, which voluntarily hath beene attempted by Ours, a little boat comming home from Bermuda to England? and the Dutch open boats from Noua Zembla to Norway: further and longer distances then is needfull from Iland to Iland for crossing from Europe to some parts of America; that I mention not the Carthaginian and Owen Gwyneds voyages, and other casuall tempests, &c. in which by fishing, fishermen might liue long at Sea with their wiues▪ and be carried by a higher coworking ouer-ruling prouidence to people this new World, which (it is likely) at diuers times and by diuers meanes receiued her inhabitants; God which made all men of one bloud, alotting to all Adams sonnes their portions and the seuerall bounds of their habitation. Act. 17.20.
• * 5.230

  See Iobson Tom. 1. l. 9. of such in Guine••▪
• * 5.231

  Tomineios.
• * 5.232

  Condores.
• * 5.233

  Rauens.
• * 5.234

  Feather pi∣ctures.
• * 5.235

  The like is in the East Indies.
• * 5.236

  Of beasts for the Chases. Chap. 38.
• * 5.237

  These might come from the East parts thi∣ther by means of those Ilands which you see in Schoutens voyage.
• * 5.238

  Dantes.
• * 5.239

  Armadillos.
• * 5.240

  Yguanas.
• * 5.241

  Chinchilles.
• * 5.242

  Cuyes.
• * 5.243

  Viscachas.
• * 5.244

  Light-Dogge.
• * 5.245

  Of Micos or Indian Mon∣keys▪ Chap. 39.
• * 5.246

  Lustie leape. Strange sight.
• * 5.247

  Monkey lear∣ned.
• * 5.248

  Zealous.
• * 5.249

  Of Vicugnes, and Tarugnes of Peru▪ Chap▪ 40. Aristot. lib. 3. de partib. animal. c. 2. lib. 10. c. 7••▪
• * 5.250

  Indian hun∣ting.
• * 5.251

  Experiment for the eyes.
• * 5.252

  Bezar stone. Tarugues.
• * 5.253

  Of Pacos, Gua∣nacos, and In∣dian Muttons. Chap. 41.
• * 5.254

  Two kindes.
• * 5.255

  Sixe Arobes is a hundred and fiftie pounds weight.
• * 5.256

  Of the Bezaars stone. Chap. 42.
• * 5.257

  Plin. l. 10. c. 72.
• * 6.1

  Gold of Indi∣ans base.
• * 6.2

  Manner of mynes and searching for gold.
• * 6.3

  Gold in mynes.
• * 6.4

  Spanish cu∣stomes for vsage of mynes.
• * 6.5

  Water a good neighbour.
• * 6.6

  Women gold-washers.
• * 6.7

  Other Labou∣rers.
• * 6.8

  Fiue to a tray.
• * 6.9

  Gold in Riuers or poulder.
• * 6.10

  Gold engen∣dred on hill tops.
• * 6.11

  His reason.
• * 6.12

  Some may thinke that coles, shels & other ludibria naturae, natu∣rally grow there.
• * 6.13

  Gold in graines. One huge piece of gold.
• * 6.14

  A Marke is a pound of 8. ounces summa, 16. pound weight eight ounces, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 12. ounces to the pound. Indian gilding.
• * 6.15

  Men continue an houre vnder water.
• * 6.16

  Naturall suc∣cession.
• * 6.17

  Of this read more largely in the Decads.
• * 6.18

  Huge Pearle.
• * 6.19

  By the compu∣tation of Ve∣nice, foure graines make a Caract.
• * 6.20

  Peare-pearles▪
• * 6.21

  Deuils Impo∣sture.
• * 6.22

  Pythagorea•• P••aces.
• * 6.23

  Indian coniu∣rings or con∣sultations.
• * 6.24

  Eclipses and Prognosticati∣ons.
• * 6.25

  Reason why men kill them∣selues to serue their Masters in the other world.
• * 6.26

  Images of the Diuell.
• * 6.27

  Tempests.
• * 6.28

  Small Wormes troublesome.
• * 6.29

  Lice forsake them.
• * 6.30

  Lice finde them againe▪
• * 6.31

  Nigua.
• * 6.32

  Vipers.
• * 6.33

  Adders.
• * 6.34

  Dragons.
• * 6.35

  Spiders huge.
• * 6.36

  Toades.
• * 6.37

  Their renuing.
• * 6.38

  Singing.
• * 6.39

  Crabs or ra∣ther Tortoises.
• * 6.40

  Serpents cal∣led Iuanni.
• * 6.41

  N••te.
• * 6.42

  Small Birds. T••mineios.
• * 6.43

  Bardati or Ar∣madillos; a kinde of Moles
• * 6.44

  Beare••▪
• * 6.45

  Ante••.
• * 6.46

  Iohson mentions the like neere Gamb••a.
• * 6.47

  Great wonders in least crea∣tures.
• * 6.48

  A strange beast which seemeth a kind of Ca∣melion.
• * 6.49

  Foules and Birds. Alcatraz.
• * 6.50

  Panama.
• * 6.51

  Pilchards.
• * 6.52

  Passere sempie.
• * 6.53

  Picuti, Birds with bils hea∣uier then bo∣dies.
• * 6.54

  Foolish Spa∣rowes, wisely prouident.
• * 6.55

  Gazzuole.
• * 6.56

  Pintadelli.
• * 6.57

  Great Fowles.
• * 6.58

  Cocos.
• * 6.59

  I haue seene one of these Fruits opened, the which when it was whole, if it were shaken the water was hard shogge therein as it were in a Bot∣tle, but in time it consumed & was partly congealed into a salt substance
• * 6.60

  Good against the wind and stone Collick.
• * 6.61

  Great Trees.
• * 6.62

  Great Canoas
• * 6.63

  A maruellous Tree.
• * 6.64

  Kindling of fire without fire.
• * 6.65

  Putrified wood shining in the night.
• * 6.66

  Plinie.
• * 6.67

  Almost ••ll In∣dian trees con∣tinue euer greene.
• * 6.68

  Cassia.
• * 6.69

  E••rth hot low∣er then a fa∣dome.

  A secret thing. Radicall moi∣sture.
• * 6.70

  Reed-springs or fountaines of water.
• * 6.71

  Platani, or Plantans.
• * 6.72

  Figges.
• * 6.73

  Tunas.
• * 6.74

  Bihaos.
• * 6.75

  Hauas.
• * 6.76

  Dying of Cotton.
• * 6.77

  A strange thing.
• * 6.78

  It was not a venemous iuce of the fruit, but spir••••uall diso∣bedience in ea••ing contra∣rie to Gods comm••n••e∣ment, whi••h poysoned A∣dams soule with sinne, the wages whereof is death.

  Canibals inue∣nome their Arrowes. Petrus Arrias.
• * 6.79

  The water of the Sea.
• * 6.80

  The gulfe of Vraba.
• * 6.81

  Xagua.
• * 6.82

  Blacke ••••aines.
• * 6.83

  Hohi. Some thinke these to be mi∣robalanes.
• * 6.84

  Date trees.
• * 6.85

  The Inhabi∣tan••s of the Sea of Sur.
• * 6.86

  An herbe that beareth cordes.
• * 6.87

  Cabuia and He∣nequen.
• * 6.88

  A strange thing.
• * 6.89

  Leaues.
• * 6.90

  Thistle trees.
• * 6.91

  A leafe of great vertue.
• * 6.92

  Tiburons. Manates.
• * 6.93

  Great Tortoi∣ses.
• * 6.94

  Tiburons of Sharkes.
• * 6.95

  Plinie.
• * 6.96

  Crocodiles.
• * 6.97

  Manates.
• * 6.98

  The fish Ma∣nate.

  A remedie a∣gainst the stone.
• * 6.99

  The Sword fish.
• * 6.100

  Tunny.
• * 6.101

  Turbut.
• * 6.102

  Note. The Sea some∣where fertile, somewhere barren.
• * 6.103

  Flying fishes.
• * 6.104

  The Iland of Bermuda.
• * 6.105

  Not too hie for the Pie,

  Nor too low for the Crow.
• * 6.106

  Beragua.
• * 6.107

  The West Ocean.

  The Sea Medi∣tarraneum.
• * 6.108

  Hispaniola. Cuba.

  Ocean without ebbing and flowing.
• * 6.109

  The ebbe at Panama falleth two leagues or sixe miles.
• * 6.110

  The South Sea.
• * 6.111

  Esquegua and Vrraca.
• * 6.112

  The Riuer of Chagre.
• * 6.113

  The Iland Ba∣stimento.
• * 6.114

  The maruel∣lous Bridge.
• * 6.115

  Naturall stone Bridge.
• * 6.116

  Tigres.
• * 6.117

  Plants and herbes. Birds.
• * 6.118

  Men.
• * 6.119

  Sheepe. Bulls.
• * 6.120

  Iucca.
• * 6.121

  Bats,
• * 6.122

  Plinie.
• * 6.123

  The Tigre.
• * 6.124

  The hunting of Tigres.
• * 6.125

  A Tigre made tame.
• * 6.126

  The Indian women.
• * 6.127

  Vnnaturall ab∣ortions.

  Large breasts▪ Child-birth.
• * 6.128

  The men of India.
• * 6.129

  The King is borne on mens backes.
• * 6.130

  Letting of bloud.
• * 6.131

  They haue no beards.
• * 6.132

  They paint their bodies.
• * 6.133

  The Canibals Trumpets.
• * 6.134

  Armor of gold.
• * 6.135

  Their gallant∣nesse in the warres.

  Their Iewels.
• * 6.136

  How the wo∣men beare vp their teates with bars of Gold.
• * 6.137

  The stature & colour of the Indians.

  The Indians called Coronati. The Iland of Giants. Iucatos.
• * 6.138

  The sculs of Indians heads.
• * 6.139

  Men are desi∣rous of new things.
• * 6.140

  The commo∣dities of Hispa∣niola, England, and Sicilie.
• * 6.141

  Gold Mines.
• * 6.142

  Cotton.
• * 6.143

  Cassia.
• * 6.144

  Sheepe and Hogs.

  Dogs and Cats become wilde. The scituation of Hispaniola.
• * 6.145

  A Cathedrall Church and Monasteries in Hispaniola.
• * 6.146

  An Hospitall.
• * 6.147

  The people.
• * 6.148

  Cienas a kinde of Glowormes
• * 6.149

  Crowes stink∣ing and sweet.
• * 6.150

  partridges.
• * 6.151

  Bullets for Guns wrought by nature.
• * 6.152

  A Fountaine of th•• Pitch of Bitumen.
• * 6.153

  Quintus Curtius
• * 6.154

  Bitumen of Ba∣bylon.
• * 6.155

  The Rouerso a strange fish to hunt with.
• * 6.156

  Perhaps this Rouerso is the little fish which cleaueth to the Sharke and is by him carried in all his Cha∣ses, feeding on the scrap••.
• * 6.157

  Memorials of the dead.
• * 6.158

  Ignorance of Letters.
• * 6.159

  Areytos, songs and dances.
• * 6.160

  Houses of three sorts.
• * 6.161

  Besuco seemes to be as bind-weed or Iuie, but stronger and more pliant.
• * 6.162

  The beasts of those parts. Dants.
• * 6.163

  Gatto Ceruiero.
• * 6.164

  Leopards.
• * 6.165

  Foxes.
• * 6.166

  Red and fal∣low Deere.
• * 6.167

  Marterns.
• * 6.168

  Monkeys.
• * 6.169

  Dogs. Churchia.
• * 6.170

  Fowles. Parrots.
• * 6.171

  Night-sparrows▪
• * 6.172

  Bats.
• * 6.173

  Peacocks and Turkeys.
• * 6.174

  Sea-crowes.
• * 6.175

  Wilde Hennes.
• * 6.176

  Partriches.
• * 6.177

  Pheasants.
• * 6.178

  Flies, and Wasps, Bees, Ants, &c.
• * 6.179

  Hist. ••. l. 15. c. 1. vid. inf. Historia Gen. l. 2. c. 14.
• * 6.180

  Beginnings of th•• foule dis∣ease.
• * 6.181

  Lib. 3. c. 6.
• * 6.182

  Those before m••ntioned out of Ramu••io. Friars quar∣rels.
• * 6.183

  Lib. 4. c. 2.
• * 6.184

  Lib▪ 3. c. 11.
• * 6.185

  Ouiedos fift Booke is of their religion▪ &c.
• * 6.186

  Lib. 6. c. 3.
• * 6.187

  Superst••tious conceit of the Sacrament. It was orday∣ned against the Hura••ans of the consci∣ence, not of the weather. Lib. 7. c. 10. Cock•• & Cats differing from the Spanish: wherein our English doe much agree with the Indian. Strange water-spout.
• * 6.188

  Lib. 13. c. 2.
• * 6.189

  Sea Monster stupendious.
• * 6.190

  25. passa, which some∣times signifieth fathoms.
• * 6.191

  An Italian fowle.
• * 6.192

  Lib. 14. c. 7.
• * 6.193

  Water hawkes.
• * 6.194

  L. 15. c. 1. Greatest harme by least crea∣tures.
• * 6.195

  Vncertainty of Superstition.
• * 6.196

  Gal. 4. Rom. 4. Eph. 4. Rom. 8. Ioh. 14. ••. Tim. 4. Col. 1. Col. 2. Col. 3. Heb. 13. Eph. 5. 1. Io••. 4. Mat. 11. Num. 11. Ier. 2.13. Mat. 25. Ioh. 1.
• * 6.197

  L. 16. c. 15.
• * 6.198

  Lawyers dan∣gerous in the Spanish Indies.
• * 6.199

  L. 17. c. 4. Filthy Mar∣riages.
• * 6.200

  Ouied••s testi∣mony of Indian Christianity. He thinkes it a Fable that is told of Crosses found in Iuca∣••an.
• * 6.201

  Strange passa∣ges of Fowles.
• * 6.202

  L. 17. c. 15.
• * 6.203

  L. 17. c. 18.
• * 6.204

  Abom••n••ble deuo••ions.
• * 6.205

  L. 18. c. 2.
• * 6.206

  L 19▪ c. 2. Pi••ch Foun∣taine.
• * 6.207

  C. 9. Two shel-fishes which yeeld Pearles.
• * 6.208

  He cals him a Pirate, but sheweth no reason of that name.

  Pewter.
• * 6.209

  English voyage to the W••st Indies, A. 1517. L. 19. c. 13.
• * 6.210

  L. 20.
• * 6.211

  Ouiedo writ other Bookes of the firme Land, which are not extant.
• * 6.212

  L. 7. Eccles. 1.
• * 6.213

  L. 7. c. 2.
• * 6.214

  Chichimecas. Their sauage course of life.
• * 6.215

  Ottomies.
• * 6.216

  New Mexico.
• * 6.217

  Aztlan. Tuculhuacan.
• * 6.218

  Their begin∣nings 900. yeeres agoe▪ A.D. 720.
• * 6.219

  How the six Linages of Na∣uatalcas peo∣pled the Land of Mexico. Chap. 3.

  Suchimilcos. Chalchas. Tepanecans. Azcapuzalco. Tescuco. Culhua.
• * 6.220

  Tlalluicans.
• * 6.221

  Quabunachua▪
• * 6.222

  Tlascaltecans.
• * 6.223

  Giants.
• * 6.224

  Note of Gi∣ants.
• * 6.225

  Beginnings of ciuilitie.
• * 6.226

  Of the Mexi∣cans departure, of their iour∣ney and peo∣pling the Pro∣uince of Me∣chouacan Ch. 4.
• * 6.227

  Deuills emula∣tion of that worke of God in bringing Israel out of Egypt, and pas∣sing thorow the desert to Canaan.

  Tabernacle. Arke.
• * 6.228

  Mexi their Moses.
• * 6.229

  Mechouacan.
• * 6.230

  Pascuaro.
• * 6.231

  Of that which happened in Malinalco Tula, and in Chapul∣tepec. Chap. 5.
• * 6.232

  Witch forsa∣ken.
• * 6.233

  Deuils proud emulation in punishing dis∣obedience, and teaching mur∣therous sacri∣fices.
• * 6.234

  Chapultepec.
• * 6.235

  Metamorpho∣sis.
• * 6.236

  Atlacuyauaya▪
• * 6.237

  Of the warres the Mexicans had against them of Cul∣huacan. Chap. 6. Ticaapan.
• * 6.238

  Queene of Discord made b•• the King of Pride.
• * 6.239

  Toccy.
• * 6.240

  Of the foun∣dation of Mex∣ico. Chap. 7.
• * 6.241

  Eagle glorious adored.
• * 6.242

  Tenoxtiltan.
• * 6.243

  Tabernacle for their De∣uils Arke.
• * 6.244

  Stone Chap∣pell.
• * 6.245

  Oracle.
• * 6.246

  God of the quarters.
• * 6.247

  Of the sedition of those of Tla∣telulco, and of the first Kings the Mexicans did choose. Chap. 8.
• * 6.248

  Acamapixtli first King of the Mexicans.
• * 6.249

  How Orations were kept in memorie.
• * 6.250

  Crowne and coronation.
• * 6.251

  Of the strange 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Mexicans pay∣ed to them of Azcapuzalco. Chap. 9.
• * 6.252

  Garden in the water.
• * 6.253

  How made.
• * 6.254

  New Pharaoni∣call taxes.
• * 6.255

  Acamapixtli dyeth.
• * 6.256

  Vitzilouitli e∣lected King.
• * 6.257

  Marriage ce∣remonie. Lots and Southsaying▪
• * 6.258

  Kings death.
• * 6.259

  Of Chimalpopo∣ca the third King, and his cruell death, & the occasion of warre which the Mexicans made, Chap. 11▪
• * 6.260

  Quarrell with the Tapanecans.
• * 6.261

  King murthe∣red.
• * 6.262

  Of the f••urth King called Izcoalt, and of the warre a∣gainst the Ta∣panecans. Chap. 12.
• * 6.263

  Tlac••ell••••s va∣lour.
• * 6.264

  Ceremonies of defiance.
• * 6.265

  Of the battaile the Mexicans gaue to the Tapanecans, and of the victorie they obtained. Chap. 13.
• * 6.266

  The Battaile.
• * 6.267

  Mexicans con∣quer.
• * 6.268

  Diuision of spoyles.
• * 6.269

  Of the warre and victory the Mexicans had against the Ci∣tie of Cuyoacan. Chap. 14.
• * 6.270

  Temple.
• * 6.271

  Of the warre and victory which the Mex∣icans had a∣gainst the Su∣chimilcos Ch. 15.
• * 6.272

  Temple filled.
• * 6.273

  Causey made.
• * 6.274

  Cuitlauaca.
• * 6.275

  Children in the Couent.
• * 6.276

  Captiues sa∣crificed.
• * 6.277

  Izcoalts death.
• * 6.278

  Of the fift King of Mexico, cal∣led Moteçuma, the first of that name. Chap. 16.
• * 6.279

  Griffons ta∣••ons.
• * 6.280

  Bloudy and di∣uellish institu∣tion.
• * 6.281

  Pompous so∣lemnity.
• * 6.282

  Horrible cou∣rage.
• * 6.283

  Tlascalla to Mexico, as Car∣thage to Rome.
• * 6.284

  Great Temple built.

  Deuillish de∣uotions.
• * 6.285

  How Tlacaellec refused to be King, and of the election and deedes of Ticocic. Chap. 17
• * 6.286

  Fit similitude.
• * 6.287

  Nosthrils pier∣ced.
• * 6.288

  King poysoned
• * 6.289

  Of the death of Tlacaellec, & the deeds of Axayaca the seuenth King of the Mexi∣cans. Chap. 18.
• * 6.290

  Tiquantepec razed.
• * 6.291

  Guatulco.
• * 6.292

  Royall com∣bate.
• * 6.293

  Tlatelulco fired.
• * 6.294

  Of the deeds of Autzol the eight King of Mexico. Chap. 19 The Picture story cals him Tiçocicatzi. Quaxulatlan.
• * 6.295

  Famous Sor∣cerer, or Indian Prote••••.
• * 6.296

  Mexican An∣nalls in the Vatican.
• * 6.297

  King of Tescu∣cos Oration.
• * 6.298

  Mexican great∣nes••e.
• * 6.299

  Their opinions of God and 9. Heauens.
• * 6.300

  Elegant Pros••∣popoeia.
• * 6.301

  Elegant Pros••∣p••oeia.

  Kings Office.
• * 6.302

  Motezuma answere.
• * 6.303

  How Mote••u∣ma ordered the seruice of his house, and of the warre he made for his Coronation. Chap. 21.

  Pride before the fall.
• * 6.304

  Seg••••a de la Frontiere.
• * 6.305

  Of the beha∣uiour and greatnesse of Motezuma. Chap. 22. His proud state.
• * 6.306

  Or betwixt railes.
• * 6.307

  His liberalitie.
• * 6.308

  His seueritie.
• * 6.309

  His policie to fift men.
• * 6.310

  Quetzacoalt.
• * 6.311

  His crueltie a true effect of the Deuils foretellings. God fore∣warneth men to bring them to repen∣tance: the De∣uill to fill them with feates, perfidious and cruell iealou∣sies, superstious shifts, and to maintaine his credit, by his diuining, see∣king to prooue his diuinity (al which is heere euident) in things which Gods iustice lets him know he will do•• to punish such impious pietie. Prodgies or Deuillish Mi∣racles.

  A Comet by day.
• * 6.312

  Monsters.
• * 6.313

  Prodigious Foule.
• * 6.314

  Of the newes Moteçuma re∣ceiued of the Spaniards arri∣ual in his Coun¦try, and of the Ambassage he sent them, Chap. 24.
• * 6.315

  Relation or writing by Pi∣ctures.
• * 6.316

  Effects of su∣perstitious le∣gends.
• * 6.317

  Cortes admits diuine worship agreeing more with his coue∣tous designes then Christian religion, which thriued there according to these begin∣nings.
• * 6.318

  Egregiam vero laudem.
• * 6.319

  Needes must they goe whom Deuill driues.
• * 6.320

  Protean shifts.
• * 6.321

  Of the Spani∣ards entrie in∣to Mexico. Chap. 25.
• * 6.322

  Tezcalipuca a Deuill-god.
• * 6.323

  Good fishing in troubled waters.
• * 6.324

  Cortes his two strange at∣tempts.
• * 6.325

  Of the death of Motezuma, and the Spani∣ards departure out of Mexico. Chap. 26.
• * 6.326

  Indian armies.
• * 6.327

  Fourth dayes rest in warre.
• * 6.328

  300. Spaniards lost.
• * 6.329

  And can you blame him to write the best of himselfe?
• * 6.330

  Succession of superstition. Royall cou∣rage.

  You here hear a Iesuit. Gold is a miracle-working God in couetous hearts. Quid. non mortali•• pectora cogit Auri sacro fa∣mes? this sacer∣rima fames wrought mira∣cles in all the Spanish Indies▪ and still doth at Saints shrines, and in European pil∣grimages, and Purgatorie vi∣sions, &c.

  Great is (cryed the shrine-ma∣kers) Diana of the Ephesians.
• * 6.331

  Si ego (might America say) digna sim hac contumeliâ maximè; At t•• (Hispane) in∣dignus qui face∣res tamen.
• * 6.332

  What diffe∣rence twixt Wordes and Swords, twixt Apostles and greedie Soul∣diers? The Prince of peace sent men not to kill, but to be killed, & came to bee a slaine Lamb, that the World might be saued; not to slay a World that himselfe might be a co∣uetous worldly sauer and con∣queror. Nimrod or Alexander had been fitter Preachers in this kinde then Peter and Paul•• their examples (not of these) did Cortes and Pizarro follow: and the Chri∣stianitie of those parts more sm••lls of the Sword then the Word, as the Iesuit in bookes de pro∣curanda Ind. sal. hath shew∣ed, as is shew∣ed sup. To. 1. l. 2. c. 1. in bayting the Popes Bull. A••gust. lib. 2. de com. euang. c. 36. This was the greatest helpe of the Spanish conquest. Indi∣an qua••rels made that ea∣sie which their gold made de∣sirable.

  Diuers Nati∣ons which the Spaniards could neuer conquer to this day.
• * 6.333

  Deuill insup∣portable.
• * 6.334

  They acknow∣ledge one su∣preme Deitie.
• * 6.335

  Acts 17.
• * 6.336

  No proper name for God.
• * 6.337

  Acts ••••.
• * 6.338

  Of the first kinde of Ido∣latrie, vpon naturall and vniuersall things. Chap. 4. Sunne their se∣cond God: and then other heauenly Bo∣dies in their order.

  Temples to the Thunder their third God.

  Iupiters fulmen. Humane sa∣crifices.

  Earth, Sea, Raine-bow, Starre•• wor∣shipped.
• * 6.339

  Mexicans wor∣ship the Sunne &c.
• * 6.340

  Vitzliputzlis Temple.
• * 6.341

  Idolatrising rite the same to all their I∣dols with words different.

  Lares: as Po∣pish mediators of intercession.
• * 6.342

  Adoration h••d the n••me of ad and os: k••ssing the hand with bowing of the body, &c. See Min. Fael. lob 31.
• * 6.343

  Of the Idola∣try the Indians vsed to parti∣cular things. Chap. 5.
• * 6.344

  Concil. Limensi. 2 p. 2. cap. 99.
• * 6.345

  Of another kinde of Idola∣try vpon the dead. Chap. 6. Wisd. 14.
• * 6.346

  Of Superstiti∣ons they vsed to the dead. Chap. 7.

  Immortality of soules belee∣ued but not re∣surrection of the bodies: as ar. 17.
• * 6.347

  1000. slaine to attend one dead man.
• * 6.348

  Superstitions of the old Eng∣lish.

  Portugall w••le.
• * 6.349

  Purgatoryian∣cies as in Po∣pish legends.
• * 6.350

  Of the manner of burying the dead among the Mexican and sundry o∣ther Nations. Chap. 8.

  Places of bu∣riall.
• * 6.351

  Chaplen and other Officers killed.
• * 6.352

  The fourth & last kinde of of Idolatry the Indians vsed, especially the Mexicans to I∣mages and I∣dols. Chap. 9. Images the fourth kinde of Indian Ido∣latry.
• * 6.353

  The Deuils Paenitentiary.
• * 6.354

  Their Nemesis▪
• * 6.355

  Varro makes this difference betwixt R••li∣gion and Su∣perstition.

  Qui Deum non ••ere••tur vt ••a∣tre•• timebunt vt h••stem.
• * 6.356

  Indian Mercury.
• * 6.357

  Goddesses.
• * 6.358

  See former Chap.
• * 6.359

  They sat down to eate and drinke and rose vp to play.
• * 6.360

  Of a strange manner of Ido∣latry practised amongst the Mexicans. Ch. 10
• * 6.361

  How the Deuil hath laboured to make him∣selfe equall vn∣to God, and to imitate him in his Sacrifices, Religion and Sacraments. Chap. 11.
• * 6.362

  Of the Tem∣ples that were found at the Indies. Chap. 12.
• * 6.363

  Flu lib. de tract. Iust. in apol. pro christ.
• * 6.364

  Of the proud 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at Mexico. Cha. 13.
• * 6.365

  Mexican Popes.
• * 6.366

  Of the Priests and their offices. Ch. 14. The Deuill had his Popes or Vicars at Mexico for the new World, as at Rome for the old▪ and now for both. Mid-night Mattins.
• * 6.367

  Of the Mona∣sterie of Vir∣gins which the Deuill hath inuented for his seruice. Chap. 15.
• * 6.368

  Vestall Vir∣gins, or Nunns of Peru.
• * 6.369

  Dan. 14.
• * 6.370

  Of the Mona∣steries of reli∣gious men, that the Deuil heth inuented for superstition. Chap. 16.

  Indian shauen Friars, & their show of sancti∣tie, wi••h pouer∣ty, chastity, &c.
• * 6.371

  Of Penance, & the strictnesse the Indians haue vsed at the Deuils per∣swasion. Ch. 17.
• * 6.372

  Their seuere Fasts.
• * 6.373

  Monsters of Wil-worship.
• * 6.374

  Of the Sacri∣fices the Indi∣ans made to the Deuill, & whereof. Chap. 18.

  Sacrifices of things insensi∣ble.

  Sacrifices of beasts.
• * 6.375

  Sacrifices of Birds.
• * 6.376

  Blacke sheepe.
• * 6.377

  Extispicia. Blacke Dogs.
• * 6.378

  Fasting till stars appeared.
• * 6.379

  Shel-offerings.
• * 6.380

  Of the Sacrifi∣ces they made of men. Cha. 19.
• * 6.381

  Two hundred children sacri∣ficed.
• * 6.382

  Pa••ricide.
• * 6.383

  Of the horri∣ble Sacrifices of men which the Mexicaas vsed. Chap, 20.
• * 6.384

  Captiues only sacrificed. Victima & hostia.
• * 6.385

  Manner of hu∣mane (im∣mane) sacrifi∣cing.
• * 6.386

  Bloudie Rites.
• * 6.387

  Their Papa.
• * 6.388

  The other fiue Priests.
• * 6.389

  Deuillish dex∣teritie.

  Fume of the heart offered to the Sunne.
• * 6.390

  Of other kinds of Sacrifices of men which the Mexicans vsed. Chap. 21. Flaying Sacri∣fices.
• * 6.391

  Challenge-sa∣crifices.
• * 6.392

  Idols-Idol-sa∣crifice.
• * 6.393

  Incredible numbers sacri∣ficed.
• * 6.394

  Deuill hungry for mans flesh.
• * 6.395

  How the In∣dians grew weary, and could not en∣dure the cruel∣tie of Satan. Chap. 22.
• * 6.396

  Spaniards sacri∣ficed.
• * 6.397

  A man speakes after his heart is out.
• * 6.398

  Galen, lib. 2. de Hi••. & Platon. placit. cap. 4.
• * 6.399

  How the De∣uill hath la∣boured to imi∣tate and coun∣terfait the Sa∣cramēts of the holy Church. Chap. 25.

  Indian Com∣munion.
• * 6.400

  In what man∣ner the Deuill hath laboured in Mexico to counterfait the feast of the holy Sacra∣ment vsed in the Popish Church. Chap. 24.
• * 6.401

  The Deuill li∣king that vn∣christian, An∣tichristian prodigious o∣pinion of tran∣substantiation, and the conse∣quents, eleua∣tion, adorati∣on, reseruati∣on, Corpus Chri∣sti mad solem∣nities and ido∣latrous pro∣cessions, with rites beyond any former paganisme, in disgrace of the true Sacra∣ment, falsly calling this their Idoll an vnbloudy sacri∣fice, which hath cost so many thousands their bloud in fire and other∣wise (the Pa∣pists at once disputing of Christs natu∣rall body and despiting and renting his mysticall bo∣dy) hath found nothing fitter to transport into the Indies, nothing more contrarie to sense, reason, religion, hu∣manitie, or wherein more to triumph o∣uer mankinde in all these, then this bru∣tish opinion and bloudie solemnitie, here descri∣bed.

  Communica∣ting.

  Idol. sermon. Of Confessors and Confes∣sion which the Indians vsed. Chap. 25.

  Reserued ea∣ses as in Papall penance.
• * 6.402

  Sinnes of o∣mission.
• * 6.403

  Wicked effect of deuillish di∣uinations.
• * 6.404

  Penances.
• * 6.405

  Iapon confes∣sion.
• * 6.406

  Of the abomi∣nable Vnction which the Mexican Priests and other Nations vsed, and of their witch cra••ts. Chap. 26.
• * 6.407

  Haire-super∣stition.
• * 6.408

  Vision oint∣ment.
• * 6.409

  Like lips, like Lettuce.
• * 6.410

  Benumming force of To∣bacco.
• * 6.411

  Diuination••.
• * 6.412

  Strange Sor∣cerers.
• * 6.413

  Of other Ce∣remoni••s a••d Customes of th•• Indians, which are like vnto ours. Chap. 27.

  Mexican Bap∣tisme.
• * 6.414

  Marriage ce∣remonies.
• * 6.415

  300. Mexican Idols.

  Mangos man∣gled deuoti∣ons.
• * 6.416

  Feasts ce••ebra∣ted by them of Cusco▪ and n••w the Deuil•• would imitate the mystery of the holy Trini∣ti••. Chap. 28. Rayme feast.
• * 6.417

  Indian Trinity.
• * 6.418

  Camey-feast.
• * 6.419

  Aymorey-feast.
• * 6.420

  Intiraymi-feast.
• * 6.421

  Corpus Christi day resembled
• * 6.422

  Situa-feast.
• * 6.423

  Of the feast of Iubilee which the Mexicans celebrated. Chap. 29.
• * 6.424

  No feare but of temporall pu∣nishment.
• * 6.425

  Of the Feast of Marchants, which those of Cholutecas did celebrate. Ch. 30
• * 6.426

  Stately Tem∣ple.
• * 6.427

  Drums vsed in stead of Bels.
• * 6.428

  Comedies.
• * 6.429

  Of the suppu∣tation of times and the Kalen∣de••••h Mexi∣cans vsed. Cha. 2.
• * 6.430

  Mexican yeare & 18. moneths.
• * 6.431

  New yeares day.

  Their Kalen∣der.
• * 6.432

  Weeke of 13. daies, or years. See this in the Mexican Chro∣nicle in their owne figures.
• * 6.433

  New Age.
• * 6.434

  How the Kings Inguas accoun∣ted the yeares and moneths.
• * 6.435

  Better compu∣tation of times in Peru.
• * 6.436

  12. Pillars of the Sunne.
• * 6.437

  That no Nati∣on of ••he Indies hath beene found to haue had the vse of Letters. Chap. 4
• * 6.438

  Three wayes of remem∣brance to po∣sterity; letters, as we haue; pi∣ctures, as the Mexicans cha∣ract••rs, as in China.

  Such fool••s did that wise coun∣sell make the Christiā Church, in decreeing I∣mages not one∣ly to be bookes for such as can∣not read••, but obiects of wor∣ship to learned and vnlearned.
• * 6.439

  Of the fashion of Letters and writings which the Mexicans vsed. Chap. 7.
• * 6.440

  Bookes of leaues of trees heere folium & liber, or codex, from the rinde in which the Ancients writ. Blind zeale.
• * 6.441

  Confession by picture.
• * 6.442

  Of Registers and the man∣ner of re••ko∣ning which the Indians of Peru vsed. Chap. 8.
• * 6.443

  Quippos.
• * 6.444

  Writing with small stones.
• * 6.445

  Accounts by graines of May••.
• * 6.446

  Of the order the Indians hold in their Writings. Ch. 9.
• * 6.447

  Diuers man∣ners of wri∣ting.
• * 6.448

  Diuers formes of gouern∣ment.
• * 6.449

  Whether the Mexican or Pe∣ru Kingdome was greater.
• * 6.450

  Of the gouern∣ment of the Kings and In∣guas of Peru. Chap. 12.

  Incestuous Marriages.
• * 6.451

  Diadem.
• * 6.452

  Exact Iustice.
• * 6.453

  No idlenesse permitted.
• * 6.454

  Transmigra∣tion.
• * 6.455

  Of the distri∣bution the Inguas made of their Vassals. Chap. 13.

  Gouernours.
• * 6.456

  Tribute yeere∣ly paid at Cusco.
• * 6.457

  Fourefold prouinciall partition.
• * 6.458

  Of the Edifices and manner of building of the Inguas. Chap. 14.
• * 6.459

  Neat art in ioyning huge stones.
• * 6.460

  Arches.
• * 6.461

  Bridges.
• * 6.462

  Straw Bridge.
• * 6.463

  Of the Inguas reuenues, and the order of Tributes they imposed vpon the Indians. Chap. 15.
• * 6.464

  All slaues and none.
• * 6.465

  Lands sacred.
• * 6.466

  Order in their Religion.
• * 6.467

  Royall d••∣m••snes.
• * 6.468

  Lands of the comminaltie in common.
• * 6.469

  No proprieti•• of Lands.
• * 6.470

  Their Tribute▪ what.
• * 6.471

  Cattell distr••∣buted
• * 6.472

  Hunter lawe••
• * 6.473

  Prouisions for cattell.
• * 6.474

  Negligence punished.
• * 6.475

  Of Arts and offices which the Indians did exercise. Ch. 16. All men of all trades▪
• * 6.476

  Diuersitie of head-••••re.
• * 6.477

  V••iformity of habit.
• * 6.478

  Of the Posts and Chasquis the Indians did vse. Chap. 17.
• * 6.479

  Of the Iustice, Lawes and pu∣nuishments which the Ing∣uas haue esta∣bl••shed, and of their mariages Chap. 18.
• * 6.480

  Adultery.
• * 6.481

  Marriage so∣lemnitie.
• * 6.482

  Incest forbid∣den.
• * 6.483

  Of the Origi∣nall of the In∣guas Lords of Peru, with their Conquests and Victories. Chap. 19.
• * 6.484

  Continuance of their Mo∣narchy.
• * 6.485

  Strife twixt Inguas and Canaries.
• * 6.486

  400. Oratori•••• in Cusco.
• * 6.487

  Of the first Ingua, and his Successors. Chap. 20.
• * 6.488

  Of the greatest and most fa∣mous Ingua called Guay∣nacapa. Ch. 22.
• * 6.489

  Guaynacapa worshipped for a god.
• * 6.490

  His 300. sonnes &c.
• * 6.491

  Spaniards e∣steemed men sent from God.
• * 6.492

  Peru could not haue beene conquered but ••y diuision of themselues.
• * 6.493

  Of the last Successors Inguas. Chap. 23.
• * 6.494

  Pedegree of Vrincusco.
• * 6.495

  Of the manner of the Mexi∣cans Com∣monweale. Chap. 24.
• * 6.496

  Royall Dia∣dem. See the picture storie.
• * 6.497

  House of li∣uing Crea∣tures.
• * 6.498

  His Palaces.
• * 6.499

  Of the Titles and Dignities the Indians v∣sed. Chap. 25. Foure Ele∣ctors.
• * 6.500

  Men-cutters.
• * 6.501

  Bloud-shed∣ders.
• * 6.502

  Lord of darke∣nesse.
• * 6.503

  Other Offi∣cers.

  See the pi∣cture historie.
• * 6.504

  Priests and Teachers of the Law.
• * 6.505

  How the Mexi∣cans made war, and of the Or∣ders of knight∣hood. Chap. 26.
• * 6.506

  Their Armes.
• * 6.507

  Eagle-order.
• * 6.508

  Order of Li∣ons and Ti∣gres.

  Gray Knights.
• * 6.509

  Knights pri••••∣lidges.
• * 6.510

  Of the great ord••r and dili∣gence the Mex¦icans vsed to in∣struct their youth. Chap. 27.
• * 6.511

  See the picture story.

  Colledges.
• * 6.512

  Their employ∣ments and tri∣als.
• * 6.513

  The baine of Plantations is expectation of present and externall gain.
• * 6.514

  Plaies and dances. Military games.
• * 6.515

  Idoll gam••s Exo. 32. a thing vsuall to Hea∣thens, as their Comedies, &c. mani••est. Musicke.
• * 6.516

  Curious Dan∣cers.
• * 6.517

  Great agility.
• * 6.518

  Sir. Hen. Spel∣man.
• * 6.519

  Tenuchtitian. Mexican Lords Tenuch chosen chiefe Lord. Mexico.

  Colhuacan and Tenayncan sub∣dued.
• * 6.520

  See the storie before in A∣costa.
• * 6.521

  Tlatilulco sub∣dued b••fore as Acosta saith the Mexicans were subiect to them.
• * 6.522

  Ticocicatzi.
• * 6.523

  Title Tlacatecatl that is, Great Captaine.
• * 6.524

  Motezuma.
• * 6.525

  His weale and greatnesse.
• * 6.526

  Maiestie.
• * 6.527

  Conquests.
• * 6.528

  Wisdome and learning.
• * 6.529

  Lawes.
• * 6.530

  Many women, some wiues, some Concu∣bines.
• * 6.531

  See before in Acosta, and af∣ter in Gom••ra mor•• large re∣la••ions of Mu∣tezuma, in a wilde kinde of state and ma∣iestie, equal∣ling in many things, in some exceeding most Princes of the elder world.

  First notice of the Spaniards.
• * 6.532

  Mutezumas death.
• * 6.533

  Turkey stones.
• * 6.534

  Cold.
• * 6.535

  Turkey stones.
• * 6.536

  Cochinilla. Gold.
• * 6.537

  Gold.
• * 6.538

  Cochinilla.
• * 6.539

  Warme Coun∣trie.
• * 6.540

  Gold.
• * 6.541

  Cochinilla.
• * 6.542

  Target of gold.
• * 6.543

  Emerald stones.
• * 6.544

  Amber. Cristall.
• * 6.545

  Amber.
• * 6.546

  Cotton wooll.
• * 6.547

  Cristall. Amber.
• * 6.548

  Pepper.
• * 6.549

  Precious Stones.
• * 6.550

  Pepper.
• * 6.551

  A kinde of Baptisme with the naming of their children.
• * 6.552

  Presentation in the Temple
• a 6.553

  Gomara his third part of the Conquest of the West In∣dies, translated into English by T. Nicolas.
• b 6.554

  Of this voy∣age▪ Reade P. Martyrs fourth Decade: and Gomara part. 1. & of all which followes in this Chapter. P. Ma••t. Dec. 5. Gom. vbi supra. and Cortes his owne large narration to the Emperour, ap. Ramus. Vol. 3.
• * 6.555

  Indian simpli∣citie.
• * 6.556

  Potonchon cal∣led Victory.
• * 6.557

  Spanish incura∣ble sicknesse.
• * 6.558

  Note for fashi∣on-mongers.
• * 6.559

  Zempoallan.
• * 6.560

  Panuco.
• * 6.561

  Vera Crux.
• * 6.562

  Bloudy Sacri∣fices.
• * 6.563

  Tlaxcallan a great Citie.
• * 6.564

  Chololla.
• * 6.565

  Store of Tem∣ples and deuo∣tions.
• * 6.566

  Popocatepec a burning Hill.
• * 6.567

  Mutezumas re∣ligion.
• a 6.568

  The like speech he had made at first to Cortes, who ea∣sily wrought on that aduan∣tage, applying this Tradition to the Spani∣ards, Cortes Narrat.
• * 6.569

  Mutezuma•• death.
• b 6.570

  N. di Gus. ap. Ram. vol. 3.
• c 6.571

  Lit. P. Alua∣rado & Dieg. Godoy ap. Ram. vol. 3.
• d 6.572

  Relat. del Te∣mistitan ca.
• * 6.573

  This part of Lopez was long since transla∣ted and pub∣lished by Tho. Nichols. I haue here in diuers places amēded it by the Ita∣lian translation of Agostino di Craualiz: for the Spanish ori∣ginall I haue not.
• * 6.574

  Purgatory▪
• * 6.575

  The solemne pompe where∣with Cortes was receiued into Mexico.
• * 6.576

  Mutezumas state and Ma∣iestie.
• * 6.577

  Spaniards giue gawdy glas••e for gold and glory.
• * 6.578

  The Oration of Mutezuma to the Spa∣niards.
• * 6.579

  A strange opi∣nion.
• * 6.580

  A louing an∣swer••.
• * 6.581

  Mutezuma de∣scribed.
• * 6.582

  Cin.
• * 6.583

  Title Cin.
• * 6.584

  Change of Apparell.
• * 6.585

  His Wardrobe. His diet••rites.
• * 6.586

  Magnificent attendance.
• * 6.587

  His wiues.
• * 6.588

  Bare-foot ser∣uice.
• * 6.589

  Musicke.
• * 6.590

  Iesters.
• * 6.591

  Plate.
• * 6.592

  Mans flesh.
• * 6.593

  State ceremo∣nies.
• * 6.594

  Iesters and Players.
• * 6.595

  Games.
• * 6.596

  The Tennis play in Mexico.
• * 6.597

  God of the Ball.
• * 6.598

  His Palace.
• * 6.599

  Twentie doores.

  Three Courts. Hals, cham∣bers, wals, &c.
• * 6.600

  Multitude of women.
• * 6.601

  His Armes hee after saith a Conie was his armes, but this Eagle was ge∣nerall to all the Mexican Kings Gryffon-tale.
• * 6.602

  A house of fowle, which were only pre∣serued for
• * 6.603

  their feathers. A house of fowle for haw∣king and other strange things.
• * 6.604

  White men.
• * 6.605

  Wild beasts.
• * 6.606

  Snakes, &c.
• * 6.607

  Foules of prey
• * 6.608

  Deuils den.
• * 6.609

  Store-houses.
• * 6.610

  Officers.
• * 6.611

  The Armory of Mutezuma.
• * 6.612

  Wood for Armes.
• * 6.613

  Wodden Swords with stone edges.
• * 6.614

  The Gardens of Mutezuma.
• * 6.615

  Note of a magnificent minde.
• * 6.616

  Houses of plea∣sure.
• * 6.617

  The Court and Guard of Mu∣tezuma.
• * 6.618

  Great Vassals.
• * 6.619

  State-caution.
• * 6.620

  Tributes and subiection of the Indians to their King.
• * 6.621

  Pouerty of the Tenants.
• * 6.622

  See our picture booke.
• * 6.623

  Receiuers.
• * 6.624

  Tribute of mens labours.
• * 6.625

  Three sorts of Streetes.
• * 6.626

  It groweth al∣so in Bermuda.
• * 6.627

  The name of Mexico.
• * 6.628

  Two Lakes, one s••lt the other fresh.
• * 6.629

  E••bing and flowing by the winde. Some (as Pairitius) hence moued, deriue the cause of the Seas flowing from the salt∣nesse.

  Cause of the saltnesse.
• * 6.630

  200000. Ca∣noas.
• * 6.631

  The Market place of Mexi∣co.
• * 6.632

  Order of Sel∣lers.
• * 6.633

  The diuers wares.
• * 6.634

  Indian worke∣manship.
• * 6.635

  Gold-smiths artifices.
• * 6.636

  Victuall of di∣uers sorts.
• * 6.637

  Bartering.
• * 6.638

  The great Temple of Mexico.
• * 6.639

  Chiefe Temple described.
• * 6.640

  Two Altars.
• * 6.641

  Fortie towres.
• * 6.642

  Seuerall Tem∣ples to seue∣rall gods.
• * 6.643

  A strange doore.
• * 6.644

  Temple-halls.
• * 6.645

  Idoll-holes.
• * 6.646

  Bloudie walls.
• * 6.647

  Deuillish Priests.
• * 6.648

  5000. resi∣dents.
• * 6.649

  The Idols of Mexico. 2000. gods.
• * 6.650

  A wicked at∣tyre.
• * 6.651

  A mad offe∣ring.
• * 6.652

  The Charnell house, or place of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 mens Sculls.
• * 6.653

  Terrible spe∣ctacle.
• * 6.654

  The accoun∣ting of yeares.
• * 6.655

  The Indians beleeued that fiue ages were past, which they called Sunnes.
• * 6.656

  The Corona∣tion of the Kings of Mex∣ico.
• * 6.657

  The ointment.
• * 6.658

  The opinion of the Mexi∣cans concer∣ning the Soule
• * 6.659

  Nine places for Soules.
• * 6.660

  The buriall of Kings in Mex∣ico.
• * 6.661

  The order of buriall of the Kings of Mi∣chuacan.
• * 6.662

  Iudges.
• * 6.663

  Painters.
• * 6.664

  Sergeants▪ Prisons.
• * 6.665

  Witnesses and oathes.
• * 6.666

  Bribery.
• * 6.667

  Murther.
• * 6.668

  Theft.
• * 6.669

  Disguise of se••e.
• * 6.670

  Duels capitall.