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.

§. 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.* 1.1 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,* 1.2 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,* 1.3 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,* 1.4 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,* 1.5 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,* 1.6 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,* 1.7 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,* 1.8 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,* 1.9 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,* 1.10 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,* 1.11 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.* 1.12 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.* 1.13 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,* 1.14 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,* 1.15 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,* 1.16 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.* 1.17 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.* 1.18 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.

* 1.19Cuitlauaca 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,* 1.20 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,* 1.21 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,* 1.22 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,* 1.23 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,* 1.24 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,* 1.25 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,* 1.26 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,* 1.27 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:* 1.28 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,* 1.29 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,* 1.30 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▪* 1.31 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.

* 1.32They 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,* 1.33 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,* 1.34 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,* 1.35 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,* 1.36 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,* 1.37 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,* 1.38 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,* 1.39 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,* 1.40 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,* 1.41 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.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Vitzilouitli e∣lected King.
• * 1.2

  Marriage ce∣remonie. Lots and Southsaying▪
• * 1.3

  Kings death.
• * 1.4

  Of Chimalpopo∣ca the third King, and his cruell death, & the occasion of warre which the Mexicans made, Chap. 11▪
• * 1.5

  Quarrell with the Tapanecans.
• * 1.6

  King murthe∣red.
• * 1.7

  Of the f••urth King called Izcoalt, and of the warre a∣gainst the Ta∣panecans. Chap. 12.
• * 1.8

  Tlac••ell••••s va∣lour.
• * 1.9

  Ceremonies of defiance.
• * 1.10

  Of the battaile the Mexicans gaue to the Tapanecans, and of the victorie they obtained. Chap. 13.
• * 1.11

  The Battaile.
• * 1.12

  Mexicans con∣quer.
• * 1.13

  Diuision of spoyles.
• * 1.14

  Of the warre and victory the Mexicans had against the Ci∣tie of Cuyoacan. Chap. 14.
• * 1.15

  Temple.
• * 1.16

  Of the warre and victory which the Mex∣icans had a∣gainst the Su∣chimilcos Ch. 15.
• * 1.17

  Temple filled.
• * 1.18

  Causey made.
• * 1.19

  Cuitlauaca.
• * 1.20

  Children in the Couent.
• * 1.21

  Captiues sa∣crificed.
• * 1.22

  Izcoalts death.
• * 1.23

  Of the fift King of Mexico, cal∣led Moteçuma, the first of that name. Chap. 16.
• * 1.24

  Griffons ta∣••ons.
• * 1.25

  Bloudy and di∣uellish institu∣tion.
• * 1.26

  Pompous so∣lemnity.
• * 1.27

  Horrible cou∣rage.
• * 1.28

  Tlascalla to Mexico, as Car∣thage to Rome.
• * 1.29

  Great Temple built.

  Deuillish de∣uotions.
• * 1.30

  How Tlacaellec refused to be King, and of the election and deedes of Ticocic. Chap. 17
• * 1.31

  Fit similitude.
• * 1.32

  Nosthrils pier∣ced.
• * 1.33

  King poysoned
• * 1.34

  Of the death of Tlacaellec, & the deeds of Axayaca the seuenth King of the Mexi∣cans. Chap. 18.
• * 1.35

  Tiquantepec razed.
• * 1.36

  Guatulco.
• * 1.37

  Royall com∣bate.
• * 1.38

  Tlatelulco fired.
• * 1.39

  Of the deeds of Autzol the eight King of Mexico. Chap. 19 The Picture story cals him Tiçocicatzi. Quaxulatlan.
• * 1.40

  Famous Sor∣cerer, or Indian Prote••••.
• * 1.41

  Mexican An∣nalls in the Vatican.