r LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2010 with funding from The Library of Congress http://www.archive.org/details/conquestofmexicoOOcorn THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO ^- PEEU PREFACED BY THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC gitt 'gx^UxxM 3^xx)xixvt M^m KINAHAN CORNW^ALLIS, Author of " The Song of America and Columbus; or, the Storv of THE New World," &c. NEW YORK: Published at the Office of the Daily Investigator 52 Broadway. 1893- Original edition. A U rights reserved. jjoc^zy THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO AND PERU: {Prefaced by The Discovery of the Pacific.) AN HISTORICAL NARRATIVE IN VERSE. Book the First. — Prelude. The Discovery of THE Pacific by Vasco Nunez DE Balboa, and the Prog- ress OF Discovery in the New World, from the First Voyage of Columbus to the Conquest of Mexico. Book the Second. — The Conquest of Mexico by CORTEZ. Book the Third. — The Conquest of Peru by PiZARRO. Finale.— The Discovery of the Mississippl — The New World of To-Day. 6 0^1 3^ PREFACE. While each of the following stories in verse of the Discovery of the Pacific and the Conquest of Mexico and Peru, is separate, and complete in itself as far as it -goes, it is really a continuation of the history of America during the period of discovery and explora- tion, from the time embraced in my previous poem, — "The Song of America and Columbus, or the Story of the New World," — to the discovery of the Mississippi, to say nothing of the bird's-eye view of the United States of America. That first volume of the history of America seemed much too colossal for this busy age, but the present one is — like Pelion on Ossa — more colossal still, inasmuch as — to come down from poetical to arithmetical figures — it contains 165 pages more of verse and about 5940 additional lines. This, if not staggering, is anything but a recom- mendation to a man in a hurry, and every one is more or less in a hurry nowadays. Yet " what is writ is writ," and — unlike the man bent on talking us to death — it is always easy to' shut up a book. ii PREFACE. I have nothing to recall, and I can conscien- tiously claim for the volume the same historical accu- racy, in every respect, that marks its predecessor, and while the strict observance of this sine qua non hampered my muse in the composition of the work, it obviously enhances its value as an his- torical study. Excepting Irving and Prescott, probably no prose historian of the age of dis- covery and exploration in the New World ever studied and collated more authorities, original and modern, on the subject, or tried harder, or with a more unbiased mind, to discover and tell the true story of the career and voyages of Columbus and his followers, as well as that of the discovery of the Pacific and the conquest of Mexico and Peru, than I have done. For these extensive and laborious re- searches I have little to show, except to close students of the period, but I feel amply repaid by the consciousness that there is not an error of fact, in verse or foot-note, in the whole of the two vol- umes. This, of course, is a poor claim for a writer of verse to make, for historical accuracy is entirely secondary to its poetical merit, but had I written in prose instead of verse, it would doubtless be appreciated as a cardinal virtue, or, at least, for all it is worth. I may also lay the flattering unction to my soul that probably no other man has worked so hard or so long in studying historical material relating to the progress of discovery and colonization in the PREFACE. iii New World without hope of fee or reward, as I have done in the composition of this history in verse of the European conquests in America. But it has been a source of intellectual pleasure to me from first to last, and I do not regret one moment of the time spent in the task, while I am as indifferent and unexpectant as to its pecuniary results as if we lived in a paradise where money and property were things unknown. Epic poems are, I know, very unfashion- able. The popular taste is for fragments and fric- assees^ but the mere example of non-conformity is often salutary in its effects. At any rate, I have written coji a7nore^ and am not in the least afraid of being out of the fashion ; while, as to money, I would hardly take the trouble to cross the street to make a million of dollars if I had enough without it, for, " Enough is as good as a feast," and, by a mer- ciful dispensation of Providence, we cannot take our ducats away with us to that bourne whence no traveller returns. But I advocate thrift none the less, for no man appreciates the importance of having enough more than I do, and literature — especially verse and all that is embraced in the higher literature — is still, as it was in Dr. Johnson's time, a very poor crutch, although it may be a good walking cane. Hence I make my daily bread in a bakery not devoted to poesy, and far removed from Parnassus. Yet, busy as I have been in Wall Street every day, I have always found enjoyment in turning my iv PREFACE. thoughts and labor, during leisure hours, in other directions, and, in this case, I have been impelled by my enthusiastic devotion to the study of the early history of the New World. For only one thing have I to ask the reader's forgiveness, and that is for telling so long a story, although so alluring and picturesque is the theme, that, for my own part, I should never tire of it if it went on like Tenny- son's brook — forever. As it is, the pictures, or panoramas, I have here painted in words of the Discovery of the Pacific, the Conquest of Mexico and the Conquest of Peru, commemorate the grandest events in the history of America after its Discovery, and these stand out like great landmarks in the history of the World — ■ the stepping-stones to an expanding civilization, while the Discovery of America by Columbus was — in the light of its mighty train of splendid conse- quences — the greatest and the most momentous event in the World's history since the birth of the Redeemer of mankind. KiNAHAN CORNWALLIS. BOOK THE FIRST.— PRELUDE. The Discovery of the Pacific And the Progress of Discovery in the New World After the First Voyage of Columbus, Embracing a Complete Chronicle of Voyages And Events Prior to the Conquest OF Mexico. I. II. Ill, IV. V. VI. Columbus and his Followers. The Pacific Ocean Discovered by Vasco Nunez de Balboa. The Fate of the Discoverer. The Story of Valdivia. The Adventures of Ponce de Leon. The Sea the Region of Romance. BOOK THE FIRST. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. PART I. Columbus and his Followers. When first Columbus found this Western World, And at San Salvador his canvas furled — While gladly bidding that fair island hail,— He drew aside, magician-like, the veil That erst had hid the Old World from the New, And one he made for evermore the two. Four hundred years since then have passed away, And mark the splendid New World of to-day! What grander prize could mortal man have won ? What greater deed could mortal man have done ? Columbia in her grandeur tells the tale, And from her throne now bids Columbus hail— The deathless hero of the hemisphere — The Western Sea's immortal pioneer. Queen of the Western World he lives in thee, Thou Sovereign of a nation vast and free ! 4 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. Columbus sailed through darkness into light, Yet lived and died in nigh Cimmerian night, For though he gave the New World to the Old, He never heard its wondrous story told. To him 't was Asia — not a country new — That burst, where'er he voyaged, on his view. He sought a western passage to Cathay, But found a prize far grander on his way — The richest prize that e'er the sea revealed. 'T was strange the truth to eyes like his was sealed. But none the less the boon to man has been — Save the doomed Indian — and the world has seen No grander growth than this our New World shows. How great the debt the world Columbus owes ! He paved the way to empire in the West, And now behold him by the world caressed ! America illuminates his name. Columbia consecrates anew his fame. And glorifies the hero of the Sea, Who sowed the seed of harvests yet to be. Quadro-Centennial songs to him be sung, And joyous peals of belfry bells be rung. For ne'er again will deed like his be done — The deed by which immortal fame was won ; For now no continent remains unknown To add fresh wealth and glory to a throne. What inspiration led him thus to steer And open to the world a hemisphere ? What happy chance, combined with skilled design, As if the guide had been a hand divine ? Columbus greater, grander, nobler seems As Time upon his mem'ry brightly beams, And more and more, colossal and unique. He through the ages seems to us to speak. COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. 5 His figure through the deep perspective looms, And Fame his name with glowing light illumes. Intrepid searcher of the Western Sea He — in his glory — lives eternally, And all the nations glorify his deed And harvests gather where he planted seed. Momentous deed ! The birth of Christ alone Surpasses that which made this New World known. 11. America ! the Western World's domain, Which, magnet-like, allures across the main, Give fire, and inspiration, to my strain. Let me recall the enterprise of yore. Which led exploring vessels to thy shore. Since first Columbus found San Salvador, And each event, in order, bring to view — The Old World's ancient commerce with the New. The annals of this New World let me tell, And on the deeds of brave explorers dwell. The story of Columbus I have told, But mark the train of navigators bold, Who followed in the great explorer's wake And saw the dawn, through night, barbaric, break. First came the dauntless Cabots — sire, and son — Who glory as the fruit of daring won, And ere Columbus — lo ! — " Eureka ! " — cried, As they the sleeping Continent espied — * * Although the Western Hemisphere was discovered by Columbus in 1492, it was not until his third voyage — in August, 1498 — that he first sighted the Continent of America, where it is intersected by the numerous branches of the Ori- noco, fourteen months previous to which, namely in June, 1497, it had been discovered — in the latitude, it is supposed, of about 6 COL UMB US AND HIS FOLL VVERS. The rich reward of noble enterprise, Which kindled gladness in their searching eyes. From Albion's cliffs, across the stormy main, They sailed, intent on honor more than gain, And ran along the bluff New England shore, And south to where Floridian breakers roar. When Famine o'er their course its shadow threw, And mutineers arose among the crew. Then homeward bound, they left the coast behind- The Western mainland they were first to find. These — after great Columbus — foremost stood In bold adventure o'er Atlantic's flood. And gave the British banner to the breeze Where ne'er before 't was seen upon the seas, And so, by brave example, led the way For Britain's commerce at a later day, And those intrepid toilers it has bred — A race of sailors to the waters wed. Then, German, and Italian, ships were made • The vehicles of England's scanty trade, And maritime adventure scarce was known Where proud Britannia sat her island throne. Thus with this mighty Continent in view. The pilgrims from her sea-beat shores were few, fifty-six degrees, far to the north of the straits of Belle Isle — by John Cabot and his son Sebastian, who had sailed with two vessels in the previous month from Bristol, England, under the auspices of Henry VII., but at their own expense, on a voyage of exploration ; and following this discovery they coasted the mainland as far as the southern end of Florida, when a mutiny breaking out among the crew they returned to England. John Cabot was a Venetian merchant who had long resided in Bristol, and Sebastian was born there. In the following year Sebastian Cabot made a second voyage to the American Continent, his main object, as in the previous in- stance, being the discovery of a northwest passage to India. COL UMB US A ND HIS FOLL O IVERS. 7 And eighty years or more, from Cabot's day Had o'er the New World slowly passed away Ere Britain's flag o'er Britons waved on high Beneath the dome of its expansive sky,* While with each other, other nations vied, The spoils of savage conquest to divide : But ah ! what woes they carried in their train — France, Portugal, and sanguinary Spain, Whose paths with blood where'er they went were dyed. Oft o'er the tragic story I have sighed. There, erst, the Red Man lived in wild delight, — His Past, and Future, like his Present, bright, — Ne'er dreaming of Invasion's cruel blight. Behold, how Cortez ravaged Mexico, And laid the Empire, and its ruler low — Impelled by av'rice, and religious zeal, And fortified with armor's glitt'ring steel. See how Pizarro, with his cruel horde. Laid waste Peru, and put it to the sword, — Its peaceful people slew in wanton hate, — And with them one who'd earned a better fate — Atahualpa, its last Inca, proud, — Its temples ravaged, and an awful shroud * England put forward a claim to vast regions of North America some years after their discovery by the Cabots, a portion of which she ultimately colonized, but more than eighty years elapsed before she took any very decided step toward the permanent occupation of any part of America, and meanwhile the coast was explored by other nations. To the frugal maxims of ?Ienry VII. and unpropitious events of the reign of Henry VIII., Edward VI. and the bigoted Mary, this neglect of the colonization of the country may be attributed. The first real attempt at its settlement was made by Queen Elizabeth in 1576, when Frobisher's expedition sailed. 8 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. Of deep despair, threw o'er the hapless land, Accurst by thai marauding Spanish band. Alas ! for them, the Children of the Sun, Their glory o'er — their race forever run. III. While still Columbus sailed the Western seas, And envied Man his indolence, and ease. Beneath the lustre of a summer sun — His third eventful voyage just begun — Spain made the New World — saving Hayti — free To all her sons, of high and low degree — A royalty exacting on their gains, No cost, but only profit, to be Spain's. 'T was then Alonzo de Ojeda cried — "With Christ, and the Madonna, for my guide, I'll sail again the New World waters, wide. And gather in abundance golden ore, And spread the gospel on each savage shore ; — I, who with great Columbus served of yore. But mark me, mine will yet eclipse his fame. For I'm resoLved to win a grander name ! " Four caravels gave Seville to her son, Who dreamed of triumphs certain to be won, And with Amerigo Vespucci sailed, His mind ambitious, and his body mailed.* * Ojeda, who had sailed with Columbus on his second voyage, aided by Bishop Fonseca, at the head of the Department of the Indies, obtained the royal license for the expedition, and also the charts, and journals of Columbus, and left Spain with four ships equipped by the merchants of Seville, on the 20th of May, 1499, to make discoveries in the New World. Ame- rigo Vespucci, a Florentine gentleman, accompanied Ojeda, and owing to the chart and descriptions of the New World, that he published on his return, it acquired his name, and by universal consent this was retained, notwithstanding its ob- vious injustice to Columbus. COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. 9 He longed to spread discov'ry in the West, And gather laurels on the ocean's breast, And find a realm of beauty in the South. Ere long he reached the Orinoco's mouth. And far along the continent explored, While pearls, and gold, he added to his hoard. Enchanting prospects met his vvond'ring eyes, Which sparkled oft with pleasure^ and surprise. And native throngs regaled him with their songs. Unconscious, then, of their impending wrongs : And there he found a wand'ring English fleet, And marvelled much the rovers, thus, to meet; But England's records fail to tell the tale That from her shores such e'er were known to sail. Anon he touched at Hayti's island shore, By stealth to glean where he had gleaned before ; But he was forced by Roldan thence to fiee, And — homeward bound — again he sailed the sea. And fanned the flame of enterprise in Spain, Though scanty, save in glory, was his gain : But greater glor}^, far, Vespucius gained. Though to the sea, and arms, but little trained. Fame at a bound Americus attained. He told the New World's story with his pen, And brought it thus within the common ken. And drew a chart of all the coasts he'd seen. And all of those where Spaniards e'er had been, A.nd left Columbus coldly in the shade. By selfish ends, and low ambition swayed. Spain quickly with the New World linked his name, And all the world has since prolonged his fame — The fame that by an accident was won. And everlasting wrong was swiftly done. By this caprice Columbus lost his due, The Muse, historic, onl}^ holding true. But in Columbia — mark ! — he lives, anew. 10 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. Alonzo Nino, to adventure prone, And basking in the favor of the Throne, Was next to leave the Spanish shore behind. Expecting- in the New World wealth to find. And reap a splendid harvest of renown. And win both praise, and titles from the Crown. His comrade, Guerra, joined him in the deed, And mingled Christian zeal with boundless greed. Companions of Columbus they had been. And where they'd wandered once they longed to glean. They chose Ojeda's course — the beaten track — And bore, in rich abundance, treasure back. But to the store of knowledge added naught : Yet with incitement their return was fraught. For all who saw the wealth the wand'rers brought Were eager in their track, themselves, to sail — In calm to glide, or face the whistling gale. Then Pinzon followed with his caravels.* " Farewell ! " he cried, and wept the Palos belles. He steered his squadron south, and crossed the line, And felt the sufi with tropic fervor shine, And saw it set with grandeur in the west, With all the sky in gorgeous colors dressed, And ocean bathed in their refulgent glow, While winds to his amazement ceased to blow. None the Equator e'er had crossed before, And all on board a look of wonder wore. He landed with the Amazon in view, And saw its waters join the ocean blue. * Vincent Yanez Pinzon having built four caravels, sailed from Palos, in Spain, in December, 1499, and after touching at the Cape de Verde Islands, steered boldly south and was the first person known to have crossed the Equator. COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS He raised the Cross, and solemnized tlie Mass, But there the natives he enslaved, alas ! He lured them, by a stratagem, from shore, And after that, it met their gaze no more : But Retribution followed at his heels, And tempests thundered grandl}^ o'er his keels, While ocean, in commotion, wildly tossed, And of the four, three caravels were lost. He well deserved his loss, the wretch so base, Who thus could traffic in the human race. From Lisbon sailed ere he returned to Spain — To add renown to King Emanuel's reign — Don Pedro Cabral, bound for Hindostan, And — later on — the realm of Kubla Khan. With thirteen ships, and castled caravels.* As these — so History the story tells — To shun the calms along the Guinea shore Due westward — an imposing squadron — bore, Don Pedro sighted unexpected land — A rugged coast, but picturesque, and grand. Where bloom, and verdure, beautified the view, And royal palms, like sentient beings, grew. And rainbow-tinted birds among them flew. While monkeys climbed the trees to see the fleet, And parrots gave the signal to retreat. Like amethystine drops, and ruby showers. The paroquets emerged from leafy bowers. And flashed in constellations through the air. Don Pedro cried — " The clime is wondrous fair ! ' And, landing, claimed it for the Portuguese ; Then bending in devotion, on his knees. He placed a cross beneath the spreading trees. * The caravels had *' castles," or high cabms, built at the bow and stern . 12 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. And murmured — " Country of the Holy Cross ! The Christian's triumph is the Heathen's loss ! " And so 't was called by Cabral and the Throne, Long ere its modern name — Brazil — was known. Along the coast the vessels held their way, And reached, at length, a broad, majestic bay. Where mighty mountains looked, in splendor, down, And on the shining waters seemed to frown. Their rugged sides, colossal, clear, and bold. Touched by the ardent sun with rays of gold, While further inland, lofty peaks arose, Their pointed summits lightly capped with snows ; And near them, yet apart — alone, and grand — A naked rock o'erlooked the smiling land — A massive peak, but strangely bleak, and bare — A sentinel forever stationed there — And with the mountains round it for a frame — " The Sugar Loaf," its celebrated name. That bay was Rio's, then unknown to fame. IV. Whoe'er has wandered where, now, Rio lies, Has gazed on beauty with admiring eyes. And seen the voiceless Organ Mountains rise, With peaks aspiring to the flashing skies. And felt the charm of grandeur o'er him steal, For there to see the prospect, is to feel. The city's broad, white wilderness of streets. The roving and delighted vision meets. With green hill-sides, and gardens full of bloom, All redolent of exquisite perfume, And girdled by a purple mountain-ring, In whose deep shadows birds of beauty sing, While high above, Bonito's peak is seen — A lance-like mountain, with a point as keen — COL UMB US A ND HIS POLL O WERS. 1 3 And Corcovado's stark, and mighty ridge That spans the sky like some celestial bridge. Far to the right and left the bay extends, And, as it glitters, picturesquely bends. Along its shores the feath'ry palms appear. And orange-groves are clustered far and near. While over all the Sugar Loaf presides. And to the sunlight bares its sweeping sides. Whoe'er has from the city wandered wide, And to the mighty, lonely forest hied, In silent awe its majesty has felt, And on the scene his mind has, later, dwelt ; For. Nature there is lovely, and profound, And man seems but a pigmy on the ground By those colossal trunks that soar so high They seem to reach the over-hanging sky : Yet there embraced by parasites they die. Black tomb-like gorges open to his view — With mountain torrents leaping wildly through, And roaring as they rush to reach the sea, Impatient as a captive to be free — As through the forest he his way pursues, 'Mid vegetation rich in countless hues. Vast granite boulders tapestried with fern, He through the tangled mazes can discern, And over-arching leaves of mammoth size. That strike each fresh beholder with surprise. The dark and gloomy green of orange-trees — Which murmur softly in the summer breeze — Contrasts with the poncetta's crimson flame, While mutely the liana's coils proclaim The fate that waits on all they gather round — Each tree a giant in their meshes bound. The huge and spiky cactus, with its thorns, The undergrowth, at intervals, adorns, And when upon the scene Night's shadows fall. 14 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. The jaguar to his mate is heard to call, The bat whirrs past with shrill and ghostly cry, The wide-winged vulture swoops in search of prey, And fire-flies dance, like spirits blithe, and gay, Or stars descended from the Milky Way. His eastern course Don Pedro still pursued Across the ocean's trackless solitude. But swiftly to the King the tidings sent ^ That he had found — perchance — a continent. The King thereon was eager to explore, And bade Vespucci sail, and seek its shore. Which done, he found the land was known before, By Cabot, and Columbus, brought to view. He hesitated what 't was best to do. The Pope's partition this decreed to Spain — The hemisphere dividing 'tween the twain — But was Don Pedro's deed to be in vain ? No ! not while he— Emanuel— lived to reign ! The rival kings contended for the soil, Each claiming that to him belonged the spoil; But Spain, at length, relinquished all her claim, And so 't was left to swell her rival's fame. VI. Still great in prowess were the Portuguese, Who aimed to rule the empire of the seas ; And saw with hatred, and a jealous eye, Spain's rival flag o'er distant regions fly, And longed to spread discov'ry o'er the main, And dim the glory of that rival's reign. Cortereal espoused his nation's cause, And coveted his countrymen's applause, COL UMB US AND HIS FOLLO IVERS. 1 5 And from his purse the needed means supplied To search the western ocean, far and wide, And, through it, find a passage to the East, Whose pictured riches were his mental feast : But all in vain he sought for famed Cathay, And, disappointed, northward turned away. To sight, at length, the isle of Newfoundland, And then — exploring — pass from strand to strand. And — later — through the broad St. Lawrence glide, And safe in Labrador at anchor ride. And trade with Esquimaux along the shore, Where none — save Norsemen — e'er had been before. There icebergs rose like islands from the sea — A scene the painter's eye delights to see — While on them shone the sun's refulgent rays, And made their sides with dazzling colors blaze — Green, purple, yellow, blue, and orange-red. Rich lights, and shadows, on them grandly played, And all alike in splendid hues arrayed, While Arctic birds, in flights, around them flew, And lent the charm of motion to the view. To Labrador he quickly bade adieu. And Lisbon gave the wand'rer welcome home ; But he was prone, where'er he could, to roam, And sailed, ere long, again, for Labrador, And, after that, was heard of nevermore. VIL Spain toward the New World cast an eager eye, And — "To the Indies ! " was the nation's cry. De Lepe from Palos westward ploughed the main. Though little was his own, or country's gain. By St. Augustine's cape 't was his to sail. But Time has o'er his record thrown a veil. Bastides shared his country's deep unrest. 1 6 COL UMB US AND HIS POLL O WERS. And sailed from Cadiz for the glowing west, With golden visions, born of boundless hope, And fancies wild, unbridled in their scope. He coasted Terra Firma's wooded shore — And gathered, here and there, some golden ore — From Cape de Vela to Darien's bay, But failed to find the riches of Cathay. Ojeda, and Vespucci, sailed anew To swell the knowledge of these regions new, And chose a course they deemed unploughed by man, Which might — who knew ? — lead on to Hindostan, But when they reached — disheartened — Hayti's shore. They found their course Bastides-ploughed before ; And little wealth, or glory, either won By aught on this exploring voyage done : But still the ardor for adventure spread, And all believed the sea to riches led. To Newfoundland a fleet of fishers sped, And reaped the finny harvest of the deep, Which — off the Banks — is rarely prone to sleep. From France, and Spain, and Portugal, they sailed To work a mine of wealth that never failed. There Denys mapped the sea, and shores around, While haply the St. Lawrence, Aubert found. And back to Gaul conveyed an Indian bride, Who'd wandered on the margin of its tide. To find that Western passage to the East — On which their eyes were destined ne'er to feast — From Seville, now, with Solis, Pinzon sped ; And to Brazilian shores their voyage led, Where bright La Plata on their vision shone — A stream, ere this, the white man ne'er had known. The woods primeval there adorned the view. Beside the feath'ry, tall, and straight bamboo, COL UMB US AND HIS FOLLO WERS. 1 7 Cecropias in beauty — slender — grew, And to the breeze their lofty branches threw A hundred feet above the weeds below, While humming-birds were wand'ring to and fro, And captive led the wond'ring gazers' eyes, And arborescent ferns of mammoth size With spreading fronds looked up to court the sky, While mistletoes their tendrils flung on high. Lobelias with spikes of azure bloom Relieved the mighty forest's sylvan gloom. And capheas, with purple blossoms bright, Their odor shed, and charmed, the while, the sight. Acacias, and bromelias, displayed Their wealth of leaf in varied tints arrayed. While mangroves, and bignonias, were seen Among the lowlands, dense and grandly green, With golden maize, the Red Man's native fare, In patches o'er the landscape, here and there. Ere long to Yucatan they ploughed their way. And gazed on spots where ruined cities lay. Whose builders, too, had like them passed away, Nor left a trace on Time's eternal tide. At length, beside La Plata, Solis died — For he, again, from Seville sailed away To seek that mythic channel to Cathay — And on that second voyage he was slain Where glides the river to embrace the main, While comrades round him shared his tragic end And vainly strove existence to defend ; For savage hosts in warlike fury rose. And capped the climax of their earthly woes. VIII. Columbus died, but Spanish conquest spread. And more, and more, the Indians filled with dread. i8 COL UMB US A ND HIS POLL WERS. The poor untutored natives of the soil The Christians treated as their lav/ful spoil, And made them serve as.slaves where they had ruled Ere by their cruel tyrants they were schooled. They fell like wheat before the reaper's hands, Invasion's blight careering o'er their lands. Exhaustion, Famine, Pestilence and Strife, Left Death triumphant o'er barbaric life : And when their numbers dwindled to a few, Their place was filled with slaves of ebon hue, Who, torn away from Africa — their own — In bondage ever after lived to groan : But one among the Spaniards fought for Right, And took in righteous deeds a keen delight. And strove to shield the savage from his foes — To wrest from slavish bonds, and countless woes ; — And Mercy o'er his name a garland throws — Bartholomew Las Casas of Castile.* He labored long, and well, with patient zeal, And for his fellow-man his heart could feel. For fifty years he bore this noble toil To serve the Indian on his native soil. And to the New World, sadly, bade good-by. And mourned the wrongs from which he ne'er could fly. * Bartholomew de las Casas, (pronounce Las Cassas) a native of Seville and a priest, was appointed in 1516, by- Cardinal Ximenes, who acted as regent after the death of King Ferdinand, to the office of Protector of the Indians at his own solicitation. He had accompanied Columbus on his second voyage to the New World, and saw how horribly the Indians were oppressed by the Spanish yoke, and sought to ameliorate their sufferings. In 1551 Las Casas, after having zealously labored for fifty years in behalf of the " Liberty, Comfort and Salvation " of the Indians, returned to Spain, a disappointed man, in the seventy-seventh year of his age. He died there in 1566. COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. 19 May he to fame — Las Casas — long be known — The Red Man's friend, whose cause he made his own. IX. Columbus in the New World lived anew^ When to its shores Don Diego's squadron drew.* He sailed while, still, Ovando sat the throne, Which once his father's, now became his own, And Hayti shone with splendor erst unknown. Then, burning with the glow of enterprise, He toward the mainland turned his eager eyes — Resolved adjacent coasts to colonize — But, quickly, squadrons reached the isle from Spain, Encroaching on Don Diego's wide domain. The King had cut the continent in twain. One half, Castile — the Golden — he had named, Whose ruler Nicuesa was proclaimed ; The rest New Andalusia he called. And in command Ojeda, then, installed. The two commanders — rivals — sailed away To bring the savage land beneath their sway, And naught of this their mission Diego knew Till they at San Domingo met his view. Ere long they bade to Hayti's shores adieu, Ojeda steering east, his rival west, And each with hope, and courage, in his breast. Pizarro — yet to conquer in Peru — Was one, among Ojeda's fiery crew ; And Cortez — yet in Mexico to shine — Disease compelled the voyage to resign. Ojeda steered to Carthagena's shore. Expecting wealth to reap in golden ore, * Don Diego Columbus, the son of Christopher Columbus, succeeded Ovando in the government of Hayti, in 1509. t Pronounce Nee-que-essa. 20 COL UMB US AND HIS POLL O WERS. And revel in a paradise of charms — But landing, faced a multitude in arms. He then advanced, and bade the priests proclaim His holy mission and his lofty aim. And they, in stately form, began to read What Spain's divines and jurists had decreed ; And thus the solemn formula was phrased : — " Jehovah's name — O savages ! — be praised ! Behold a captain of the realm of Spain, Who o'er your native land has come to reign. And o'er your idols raise the Cross, divine ! Idolatry — ye heathen ! — then, resign. The Pope, who holds on earth St. Peter's sway, All savage lands, from here, to far Cathay, Has on the Christian monarchs w^ell bestowed ; And we, their servants, come to point the road. Acknowledge, then, the Christian doctrine true ; Revere the Pontiff, and for favor sue. And to the Spanish Crown allegiance swear, And 3^ou may, each, a crown of glory wear; But fail in this, and woe to all of ye ! From wrath like ours 't were vain to strive to flee ; The sword shall work its havoc, far, and wide, And desolation travel like the tide ; While all your tribes as slaves shall ever toil. And all your riches be our lawful spoil ! " The wond'ring Red Men heard the strange address. Which threatened thus to curse, if not to bless, But on their ears it fell as empty sound. The tongue was new — the argument profound. Thus Spain designed to sanctify her crimes — Her Christian warfare in barbaric climes. Submission was demanded, but in vain. The Red Men spurned the proffered hand of Spain, For Carthagena's sons were strong and brave, COL UMB US AND HIS FOLLO WERS. 2 1 And fiercely, to the soldiers, battle gave. Three hundred men in three light brigantines Were actors in the midst of warlike scenes; And poisoned arrows winged their fatal way From naked hosts assembled for the fray. Ojeda — ever daring — drove them back, And made their masses reel in each attack, Advancing, further inland, day by day. And vigilant assailing foes to slay. At length, when he his conquest deemed complete, He met with overwhelming, dire defeat. His scattered forces went in search of spoils. And fell into the foe's destructive toils. And, save himself, of all who'd landed there Not one was left, the story back to bear. He cut his way through hosts of fighting braves, Who surged around him like engulfing waves, And, 'neath the friendly mantle of the night, He sought escape in swift, and shoreward, flight. Then, with the dawn, he hid himself in trees. And to the Virgin prayed on bended knees, Till Night again with darkness veiled the land. When he renewed his journey toward the strand ; And in a mangrove thicket down he lay When in the east he saw the break* of day. Those on the ships, the while, had anxious grown, For naught, on board, of those ashore was known; And when they searched, their search was all in vain. Save learning this: — their comrades, lost, were slain. 'T was as they neared the beach to re-embark. And flee the coast ere shining day grew dark — That one among them — halting — uttered — " Hark ! " And pointed where the mangroves thickest grew. Then, stooping, peered the swampy thicket through. All near the spot, with eyes dilated, drew, 22 COL UMB US AND BIS POLL WERS. And saw a Spaniard's form reclining there. "Ojeda! " cried tine foremost, " I will swear." Yes ! on the mangroves' matted roots he lay, But, though alive, his strength had ebbed away, And not a word the famished knight could say; Yet on his shoulder still he bore his shield, And in his hand the sword he could not wield. His comrades placed him gently on the sand. And prayed for help from the Almighty's hand. But ere they bore him, shipward, from the strand, They saw his rival's fleet advancing near. And with their great surprise was mingled fear, For he, and their commander, now, were foes. He came, perchance, intent on striking blows. Ojeda whispered — " Go, and leave me here Till he, again, has left the harbor clear : " But when Nicu'sa heard the dismal tale He said — "A crippled foe I'll ne'er assail. But aid him as a brother in distress ! Though once a foe, I'm not a friend the less ! " The two, no longer rivals, met once more. And Vengeance vowed on all that savage shore. Four hundred men were landed, ripe for blood, And marched, in darkness, through the primal wood, While startled parrots vented screaming cries — As if intended to anathemize. At length they reached the village they had doomed, When all around them they with flames illumed. And slaughtered either sex — the young, and old, And stripped them of their ornaments of gold. Not one escaped that fatal night attack, \ And of the village, naught was left but wrack — The hamlets where the Spaniards had been slain. Triumphant o'er the savage, now, was Spain ! The two commanders parted, soon, as friends, Each to pursue his own ambitious ends. COL UMB US AND HIS POLL O WERS. 23 Ojeda east, his comrade to the west, Adventure craving with an equal zest. X. Ojeda landed on a spacious bay. And, to the Virgin, knelt he there to pray. And San Sebastian, called the spot he chose. While all around were arrow-fiinging foes. He sent a ship to Hayti for recruits, And lived, the while, on roots, and scanty fruits. A ceaseless battle here he found his life. And fast his forces perished in the strife, While hunger, and disease, were ever rife. Men welcomed death as yielding sweet relief From horror, and despair, and bitter grief. At length, one bright and hope-inspiring day. As sorely wounded — helpless — there he lay, While tropic vegetation round him bloomed, A sail above the clear horizon loomed. And Gladness banished Sorrow from his heart, And of his wounds he nigh forgot the smart. He deemed it brought him succor, and supplies To push anew his daring enterprise ; And toward it all directed joyful eyes, And gave unfettered play to wild delight As by degrees it sv/elied upon their sight. It anchored where the camp o'erlooked the sea. While on the shore prevailed unbridled glee, And starving men indulged in dreams of bliss : But what a ship, and what a crew was this ! 'T was not the promised bark Ojeda thought, Though succor she to dying Spaniards brought, And though from Hayti's isle her course had been, She came a stranger on the troubled scene. And bartered food for gems, and plates of gold, 24 COL UMB US AND HIS POLL WERS. Her crew a horde of desperadoes, bold, Who cried — " A lawless, pirate gang are we ! " A stolen ship, with stolen freight, was she. With Talavera o'er her in command, Aspiring for the riches of the land. Time passed away, and all she brought had gone. The camp, the while, still dwindling, one by one. And clamor, and dissension, rife within : Yet still Ojeda treasure strove to win, And daily hoped for succor, ne'er to come. At last he said — " The oracles are dumb ; So I, myself, to Hayti's isle will sail, Nor to return, with plenty, I shall fail ; And o'er you all I'll leave — my trusty band — Pizarro — Don Francisco — in command. The pirate's ship will bear me on my way. And here, the while, my faithful comrades stay ! " The pirate crew for home began to yearn, Nor, with Ojeda, trembled to return. So certain death, by ling'ring there, appeared. For Hayti's isle, with him, they gladly steered, And deemed escape from such a coast a boon : But he with Talavera quarrelled soon. And by the gang was fettered to the deck. Ere long they feared their bark would prove a wreck, And then they freed him, and implored his aid. The storm that raged appalling havoc made. And some despaired of reaching Hayti more, But in the end were cast on Cuba's shore, The caravel unfit to longer sail — A leaky vessel shattered by the gale. Against their lot the crew began to rail, But overland Ojeda led the wa}^ — A toilsome march that filled them with dismay — And many perished ere the task was done Beneath the fervor of that torrid sun. COL UMB US AND HIS POLL O WERS. 2 5 At length the wand'rers gained the eastern coast, And met, with joy, a friendly Indian host, And saw Jamaica's mountains far away. For distant twenty leagues the island lay. The natives told of Spaniards there, by signs — Men who, for gold, were prone to search the mines ; And thither sent Ojeda a canoe For succor, from his countrymen, to sue. Don Diego there had placed a trusty band To colonize, and cultivate, the land, With Esquibel — Don Juan — in command, And, when Ojeda's message reached his hand, A vessel spread her sails for Cuba's strand ; And all were thus to fair Jamaica borne. The pirate crew embraced it as their bourn. Ojeda, only, on to Hayti sailed, But there in finding succor sadly failed. And died, ere long, in San Domingo, poor — So poor he found a pauper's grave, obscure ;— Neglected as an unsuccessful man — He' who had oft so proudly led the van. Thus, as a gourd, his glory passed away. And he, to disappointment, fell a prey. The dauntless spirit grief, at last, o'ercame. And briefly he survived the wreck of fame. The chivalry of ocean, he adorned. And, splendid in his courage, cowards scorned, Yet perished like the meanest of mankind, The world to all his ancient prowess blind — Alonzo de Ojeda, reckless, brave — And none could tell where lay his humble grave. Ere this the pirate crew were captive made, And on the gibbet Talavera swayed — Fit end to his adventurous career. Whose moral, like its infamy, is clear. 26 COL UMB US A ND HIS POLL WERS. XI. Don Diego turned his thoughts to Cuba's shore, For rumor made it rich in golden ore, And there he sent a bold exploring band, And to Velasquez gave the chief command. Three hundred strong, the SjDaniards ranged the isle — A Christian host and yet satanic, vile — Nor one of all their number there was slain Ere Cuba passed a conquest o'er to Spain. They swiftly swept the native race away ; And at their feet a groaning people lay And cursed their blighting and tyrannic sway. They fell as falls the grass before the scythe. And on the stake, too oft, were seen to writhe. A chieftain who from Hayti's shore had fied Was to the verge of flaming fagots led, And asked if he'd the Christian faith embrace, And win thereby in Paradise a place. " Will such as you," the savage spoke, " be there 1 " The priest responded with a solemn air — " All righteous Spaniards to that bourn repair." " Then/' said the chief, " I thither ne'er will go. For that would be a heritage of woe. Than with that race accursed ever dwell I'd rather live eternally in Hell." The priest in holy horror raised his eyes. " Torment him," cried Velasquez, " as he dies." A moment later flames around him roared. And he was cut to pieces by the sword ; But ere he died Velasquez raised his voice, And said — " The holy angels all rejoice To see the wTithing infidel expire, And winds from heaven are sent to fan the fire." COL UMB US AND HIS POLL O WERS. 2; When such as he Invasion's vanguard led Well might the name of Spaniard kindle dread, And isles of beauty reek with dusky dead. XII. When from wild Carthagena's gory shore Bold Nicuesa's squadron westward bore, Rude, baffling storms assailed him day by da}^ And left the bark he sailed a castaway — A stranded wreck— one dark, and awful night ; And when the morning shed its welcome light No more her sister vessels met the sight. With thankful hearts, her crew escaped to land, And saw her broken timbers strew the strand. And all she carried swallowed by the tide; And o'er her hapless fate, in anguish, sighed. With scanty raiment, minus arms, and food, They found themselves in savage solitude. And wandered westward by the ocean's verge— And listened, as they journeyed, to its dirge— But sought the missing squadron all in vain. A sailless waste of billows was the main. Thus days, and weeks, in fruitless toil were passed, And some before the prospect stood aghast, And some who seldom mourned were seen to weep. Their only boat beside them skimmed the deep, And, few by few, in this they crossed a bay That in their course along the sea-beach lay. And, landing, found their resting-place an isle, A gulf beyond it stretching many a mile. They longed to flee the spot ere fell the night, But day already showed declining light. And so they camped upon its marshy soil. And sought in slumber rest from anxious toil ; But when the morrow broke no boat was there, 28 COL UMB US A ND HIS FOLL O WERS. And sunken cheeks grew livid with despair. Were those who manned her, Hke her, now no more ? Or had they steered her to some other shore. And left their helpless comrades there to die ? Long, weary weeks again went slowly by. And famine, and disease, and wearing grief Made lives as prone to wither as a leaf ; And thus they saw their numbers dwindle fast, While only shadows on their lot were cast. Some uttered groans, and lamentations, loud, And some in mute despair were sadly bowed : Some called on God for succor, and for grace, And some were Death, impatient to embrace. At length one morn on ocean's wrinkled face They saw a sight that filled them with delight — A swelling sail that shone with golden light. No bounds their transports in that moment knew. On toward the shore the distant vessel flew ; And yet the isle might well escape its view ; But nearer came the welcome, speeding ship, And prayers for rescue rose to ev'ry lip. ^T was of the missing fleet — a brigantine, And in her boat the missing crew were seen. They rowed ashore, and told their stirring tale : — How they had left the isle, to eastward sail. Expecting thus the squadron, soon, to find, And prove their motive for desertion, kind : How when the river Belen met their eyes, They felt rewarded for their enterprise, And saw the squadron's ruins crumbling there. And on the shore their comrades in despair : • And how they thus with succor reached the isle, And turned the frown of Fortune to a smile. The crews embraced on meeting, and with tears, For sorrow makes us kindred, and endears ; And all tosfether sailed for Helen's stream. COL UMB US AND HIS FOLL O WERS. 29 The rescued saw the future brighll}' gleam, So great the change that o'er them came appeared, But those who rescued, worse disaster feared, For they had dwelt where Belen's waters flowed, And all their features woe, and famine showed. They reached the camp — a sorry, dismal scene — And saw their comrades haggard, wan, and lean, Four hundred less than when they landed there. And in their eyes, dejection, and despair. Three hundred still survived, but wrecked in health, And disappointed of their promised wealth. Olano* o'er the squadron held command, And welcomed Nicuesa to the land. But he his false lieutenant met with scorn. And cried — " To be a traitor you were born ! You o'er the squadron longed for boundless SM^ay, And from the bark that bore me steered away, Nor sent a single craft to learn my fate. Such base desertion merits more than hate. Go wail in bondage o'er your cruel crime. And I will slay you at the fitting time ! " And as a traitor he was seized, and bound. While all his fellow captains stood around. " You, too," their chief in indignation, cried, " Are with the stain of crime as foully dyed. Or ye'd have searched the sea, and ranged the shore ! " "We deemed," said they, "yourself, and ship, no more ; That she — alas ! — had foundered in the gale, And all our search, in finding her, would fail : " So he, at lengthy was won to Mercy's side, And by his act not one offender died. * Lope de Olano, Nicuesa's first-lieutenant. 30 COL UMB US A ND HIS FOLL O WERS. XIII. Disease, and Famine, were the Spaniards' foes, And native hosts allowed them no repose. Their hunger forced them, once, to rob the grave, And eat the putrid body of a brave. And thirty perished by the foul repast. Then Nicuesa stood, again, aghast. And from the mournful spot resolved to flee, And trust his damaged fortunes to the sea. Two brigan tines, alone, were left him now, — Save what Olano built — a masted scow, — And he, with these, his way began to plough ; But there a few were forced to linger still, And bow submissive to their Maker's will. Due east along the coast he led the way. And reached, ere long, a small sequestered bay. " Here, in the name of God," ^ said he, " we'll land, And plant the Cross, devoutly, in the sand ! " But Indian foes, and famine, mowed them down, And Fortune, still, was only seen to frown. All living things they welcomed as their food — The alligator, and his slimy brood. And all the crawling reptiles they could find, And loathsome snakes, regardless of their kind. A bark was sent for those they'd left behind, Yet but a hundred met when all were joined. And sick, and wasted, these, with sadness groined. t * From these words it took its name — Nombre de Dios. It was the port which Columbus had previously named Puerto de Pastimientos, or Port of Provisions. Nicuesa had previously louched at Porto Bello, and been driven off by the Indians. t Groin was used by Chaucer as the equivalent of groan, although the word is now obsolete. COL UMB US AND HIS FOLLO WERS. 3 1 The craft to Hayti sailed for fresh supplies, But fatal proved, alas! the enterprise. For ne'er again it reached a friendly shore. Or e'er was heard of, by the Spaniards, more. Time wore away, and horrors greater grew, Till, lo ! the hundred dwindled to a few. And these too weak to guard the fort by night. Or sally forth, assailing foes to fight. Of all that noble squadron's gallant host. Which of so much, of yore, could proudly boast. These — these alone — remained the tale io tell How to the world their comrades bade farewell. XIV. Before Ojeda San Sebastian left — To seek for much of which he stood bereft — His friend Enciso * sailed to lend him aid. But ere he sailed, alas ! too long delayed. When Hayti's palms had vanished from his view. And sky, and ocean, met in kindred blue. He heard a strange, sepulchral voice arise. And cast around a look of wild surprise. But sought the speaker, o'er, and o'er, in vain. '^Perchance some saint addressed me from the skies ! " He whispered to himself, and raised his eyes, " Or from the deep some warning angel spoke. Oh ! may the Lord His blessings ne'er revoke," And on the sea, in silence, down he gazed. And with his lips the holy trio praised. * Bachelor Martin Fernandez de Enciso, a lawyer of San Domingo, who had been induced by Ojeda, before sailing, to promise to fit out a vessel at his own expense, and join "him in the new colony. 32 COL UMB US AND HIS POLL O WERS. Again the voice was heard, but hoarse, and near, And then the Spaniard showed a trace of fear. And deemed that Satan — not a Saint — was there. " A Spanish oath," Enciso cried, " I swear ! " Yet once again it caught his list'ning ear, And then a blow was heard, resounding, clear. While from a cask the head — projected — flew, And in its place another rose to view — A human head — a Spaniard's face, and form. Enciso seemed himself a gath'ring storm As he surveyed his strange, mysterious guest — One like a poor, but gay, hidalgo dressed — And rudely, then, assailed him where he stood, And asked his mission ere he shed his blood. " This stratagem," the stranger well replied — " May good to you, but ill can ne'er, betide, For I have come to join your daring crew. And this my advent you, nor yours, will rue. I own myself a fugitive, to you. But to your cause you'll find me stanch, and true. My creditors — rapacious — rabid, grew. And to appease them naught but gold would do, And I, alas ! of that had none, I knew. Thus deep in debt, and light of heart and purse, I vowed to flee the isle that seemed my curse. I'm Vasco Nunez de Balboa — yea, A seeker for the riches of Cathay !' I with Bastides left the shores of Spain, Expecting wealth, and great renown, to gain ; Yet, now, behold me poorer than before. But strong, ambitious, brave, I still may soar. I speak the truth, nor falsely e'er averred ; And though — as from an egg escapes a bird — I here appear to seek adventure, new, And for your favor thus to meekly sue — COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. 33 My callow days are numbered with the past, And I aspire to win renown at last ! " Enciso's anger quickly died away, And Vasco Nunez, once again, was gay. XV. The ship to Carthagena found her way, And anchored in its deep, and sheltered bay. The natives brandished weapons on the shore, And feared Ojeda's troops had come once more : But when the Spaniards made them friendly signs They banished with their wrath their fierce designs, And then displayed a calm, pacific mien— So easy 't was their hearts from war to wean — And, hospitably, toward them nearer drew, Though Spaniards there, before, their kinsmen slew, Unmindful of their sex, or yet their age. And hamlets burned, and ravaged, in their rage. They rose above the spirit of revenge, Nor sought their wrongs, terrific, to avenge. As there the vessel lay, a sail was seen, And into port there sailed a brigantine. Enciso marvelled much at such a sight, And some, on board, surveyed her with delight, While others feared the stranger boded harm. And yielded to suspicions, and alarm, For in those lonely seas a sail was rare. Some deemed a phantom ship was sailing there : But on she came, and anchored by their side. While from her prow a Spaniard " Welcome ! " cried. From San Sebastian's shore she'd ploughed her way. Nor longer there her starving crew could stay. Ojeda failed to bring them back supplies, And for a sail they, vainly, strained their eyes. Two brigantines were left, and these were filled, 34 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. But both were light, and fragile, in their build, And one, ere long, went down with all on board, Who, from their comrades, help, in vain, implored. Of all Ojeda's squadron naught remained. Save this lone, feeble craft, by tempests strained, And those she bore — the last surviving few Of his once proud, and truly gallant crew ; And o'er them, still, Pizarro held command, And ruled with kind, and yet determined, hand. XVI. Enciso would to San Sebastian go, Despite the tale he heard of thrilling woe, And on Pizarro he, at length, prevailed To backward turn ; and both, together, sailed : But to his own, and comrades', bitter cost. Just as he reached the port his ship was lost, And with her all — but human lives — she bore, While breakers lashed, and roared, along the shore. The fortress, and the huts, in ruins lay. And hostile natives filled him with dismay. 'T was now that Vasco Nunez forward came, And said that with Bastides — known to fame — He years before had voyaged past the coast, And found the Indians there a friendly host. And rich in food, and gold, the country round, While with a ring of gold the chief was crowned. The spot was by Darien's stream, and west, Where palm-trees threw their shadows on its breast. There went the Spaniards in the brigantine, And charming to the eye appeared the scene. The green enamelled leaves of koo-chook trees * Were whisp'ring softly in the tropic breeze, * Caoutchouc, or India-rubber. COL UMB US AND HIS FOLL O WEKS. 3 5 While from the gramalott — high water-grass — And tabaquills — the weeds of the morass — Aquatic birds, from time to time, arose — Snipes, herons, pipers, fishers, and the rest, Each with a touch of beauty on its breast ; And crocodiles lay gilded by the sun — Grim monsters sunk in slime, and long and dun. Where mangroves in the swamps luxuriant grew The manatus — the sea-cow — met the view; And cormorants were wand'ring to and fro, Or diving in the liquid depths below, And venting screams discordant, harsh, and shrill, Save in the noontide heats, when all was still ; And in his swinging hammock Man reposed, And on the world his eyes — contented — closed. Atrato's waters in the sunlight gleamed. And with the finny tribe — disporting — teemed. While in their champas natives skimmed it o'er. Great caves and grottoes, marked the ocean's shore. Where waves were wont, when tempests raged, to roar; — And boil, and foam, and fret, and plunge, in storms ; — For Neptune here had carved fantastic forms — The work of ages and the sportive brine — The tapestry of rocks, of strange design — The sculpture fashioned by the hand divine. XVII. The forest seemed alive with plumaged throngs, And here, and there, they sang their sylvan songs — The cardinal, and tropeo, and more — While turkeys, toucans, parrots — score on score — 36 COL UMB US A ND HIS FOL L O WERS. With gaudy colors, flamed before the eye ; And crested, white macaws were heard to cry, And mocking-birds to warble in the shade. Where agile monkeys in the branches played. Majestic trees their lofty branches twined. And formed arcades, as if by man designed — Vast avenues, of architecture grand — Their arches, with capricious vines festooned, And Nature's harps aeolian there attuned. The Cordilleras rose against the sky, A mighty background — grand, eternal, high — With splendid vegetation gayly dressed, The verdure reaching almost to their crest. While over all the sun resplendent shone. Diffusing lustre from his dazzling throne. The nights were vocal with the sounds of life — The forest wdth the hum of voices rife : — The night-birds screamed and hooted on the air ; The frogs, in concert, told that they were there ; The monkeys cried, and chattered to the moon. And herons spoke from river, or lagoon. While shining stars — the flow'rets of the skies — Looked down on dancing, gleaming, fiery flies. XVIII. Enciso, landing, stormed the Indian town. And slew the monarch with the golden crown, And drove his people from their wdld domain, Or left them, where they'd bravely battled, slain ; Then plundered where he'd conquered, and, behold ! Ten thousand castellanos gained, of gold. He, then, Darien named the spot, and there Began to rule as the alcalde m.ayor : But in the Spaniards' midst, dissensions rose. Enciso found them, one and all, his foes. COL UMB US AND HIS POLL WERS. 37 And Vasco Nunez fanned the fire of hate, And — with his comrades — stripped him of his state, But ere his place, a new commander filled, And ere the tumult of the camp was stilled, The sound of distant cannon caught the ear. Men paused to list in wonder, and in fear. Then from the brigantine a gun replied. And toward the shore a ship was seen to glide ; Another, too, behind it, soon, was eyed — Two barks for Nicuesa, with supplies. The sight moved all with gladness, and surprise. O'er these one Colmenaris held command, And claimed the coast as Nicuesa's land. To whom for aid the camp resolved to look, And, with him, Colmenaris envoys took. Who found his chief where last we left his band. With hollow cheek, and eye, and shrivelled hand. And only sixty left of all he'd ruled — Men bitterly in want, and warfare, schooled — And begged him to their camp to take his way. And o'er it hold a rightful ruler's sway. He felt as one restored from death to life — As one who'd proved a victor in the strife — But indiscreetly made prophetic signs, And spoke, in vaunting tone, of harsh designs. The envoys heard, and quickly took alarm. For words like his foreboded naught but harm. And speeding back before he left the land They cried — " Beware ! you court a knave's com- mand ! " Then all were sad to contemplate their deed, From which it seemed too late to, now, recede ; But Vasco Nunez said — " No more despair ! For you the evil work can, soon, repair By not receiving him for whom you've sent. He naught can do but rage with discontent." 38 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. His comrades deemed his counsel truly wise, And toward the ocean turned expectant eyes, And saw, ere long, the promised bark appear ; Then gathered on the beach when she was near, And warned him — Nicuesa — from the shore. He marvelled much, and felt exceeding sore. And — night approaching — steered again to sea. But in the morning back, once more, was he. He, then, was asked to parley on the beach, And found himself ensnared within their reach. For as he touched the ground he felt their blows : But he was fleet, and fled his angry foes. He gained the friendly woods, by these pursued, And wandered there, awhile, in solitude. When Vasco Nunez* saw the people's rage He tried their stormy passions to assuage, Repenting of the fury he'd aroused, While those around on native wine t caroused : But all in vain he counselled measures, mild. His comrades seemed with indignation wild. They seized on Nicuesa in the wood, And threatened there, and then, to shed his blood ; But, in the end, resolved his life to spare If he'd to Spain without ado repair. In fear of death, the promise asked he gave. Though he was, like his nation, proud, and brave. They forced him on a leaky brigantine. Which sailed away, but ne'er again was seen, Nor one survived her tragic fate to tell.l Thus Nicuesa bade the world farewell. * After Enciso had been deprived of his office, Vasco Nunez de Balboa, and another, were appointed alcaldes. t Made from maize, and the pineapple. \ Nicuesa sailed on March i, 1511. COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. 39 XIX. The hapless bark had vanished from the view,' But on Darien's strand contention grew. Enciso tried, condemned, and sent to Spain,* Left Vasco Nunez o'er tlie band to reign. Who frank, and fearless, and of courteous ways, Had won his comrades' confidence, and praise. Tall, strongly built, and full of manly grace, With auburn locks and prepossessing face. And young, though verging on the noon of life. He looked a leader, born to conquer strife, And soothe the angry passions of his band . By ruling with a firm, but gentle hand. He labored, now, success, and gold, to win — For these he deemed atoned for ev'ry sin — And prove his skill, and fitness for command By deeds of valor, and achievements grand. He heard of regions rich in precious ore. And sent Pizarro thither to explore. * The bachelor Enciso was charged with usurping the powers of alcalde mayor on the mere appointment of Ojeda, who had no authority over this territory, it being included in the province assigned by the Crown to Nicuesa. He was found guilty, and imprisoned, while his property was confis- cated ; but afterwards he was released, and allowed to return to Spain, where he made representations concerning these harsh measures at the Court, which greatly prejudiced King Ferdinand against Vasco Nufiez de Balboa, and led to the appointment of Don Pedrarias Davila as governor of Darien, who ultimately caused the execution of Vasco Nunez. The latter, however — then about thirty-five years of age — succeeded to the command of the colony after the de- parture of Enciso, and his own fellow-alcalde, Zamudio — who went with him to counteract any injurious representations he might make in Spain — and this command he retained until the arrival of Pedrarias. 40 COLUMBUS AND HIS FOLLOWERS. And when Pizarro back, defeated, came — And left behind a comrade sick, and lame — He made him feel the bitterness of shame. He, then, returned, and so the comrade saved, Though countless perils in the task he braved. To those who'd Nicuesa's fortunes shared — At Nombre Dios — brigantines repaired. And to Darien's camp the remnant bore ; And glad were they to leave that fatal shore. Two Spaniards, who'd deserted long before. Were by them found arrayed in Indian guise, And leaders in barbaric enterprise — The guests of Coyba's chief — Careeta named, And for his might, and prowess, justly famed ; And these, returning, Vasco Nunez told Of all his stores of food, and pearls, and gold, Betraying him who'd sheltered them of old. Then Vasco Nunez planned his overthrow By striking, in the night, a crushing blow. 'T was done, and he — the chief — was plunged in woe. He saw himself, his wives, and children, bound, And gazed, in sadness, on the scene around. When Vasco Nunez met his pensive eye. The captive clanked his chain, and heaved a sigh, And thus, in mournful accents, slowly spoke : — " Why bow me down to such a cruel yoke When I, nor mine, have ever done thee wrong ? 'Tis true I'm weak, and thou, and thine, are strong; But I have seen the Spaniard in his need. And succored him, and proved a friend indeed. I When first I saw thee near my dwelling-place I met thee not with anger in my face. But welcomed thee with brotherly embrace. And gave thee of the best that I possessed. Yet thou wouldst, thus, from me my freedom wrest ! THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 4 1 Oh ! set me free, and I, and mine, will be, For ever, faithful friends to thine, and thee, And all thy wants supply, from time to time, And show thee all the riches of the clime ; And as a pledge of friendship, true, sincere, I'll give thee one I hold supremely dear — Yea love, and cherish as I would my life — My daughter — Vasco Nunez — as thy wife ! " Before his eyes the damsel captive stood — A lovely form in life's expanding bud — Dejected, trembling, beautiful, and chaste, And by the charms of nature only graced — A Venus with a wealth of raven hair. To Vasco Nunez she was wondrous fair. And to Careeta's offer he replied — " I'll take the maiden gladly as my bride. And naught you ask to you shall be denied, For I would turn my native foes to friends ; And wise is he who Cross, and Crown defends ! " That captive fair the captor captive led. For to his heart a dart from Cupid sped. And in the beauty's smiles he found delight. And ne'er before had eyes appeared so bright. PART II. The Pacific Ocean Discovered. I. Don Vasco Nunez kept his promise true. And he and King Careeta friendly grew. He served the chieftain's friends, and fought his foes. And brought his war with Ponca to a close ; 42 THE DISCO VER V OF THE PA CIFIC. For Ponca — like himself a great caziqne — Was in the mountains forced to shelter seek, His country ravaged, and his people slain By Vasco Nunez and the troops of Spain ; Who, then, adventured on Comagre's plain, And reaped a harvest, rich, of virgin gold. A tale to Vasco Nunez there was told, Which fired with ardor, new, the Spaniards' breast. And widened Spain's dominions in the West. A young cazique — with south-extended hand — Said — " See those mountains yonder, tall, and grand! Beyond them lies an ocean, deep, and wide. Where ships with sails — like yours — are seen to glide, * And, with their oars, their course the rowers guide. There — on the shores that stretch along the main — Proud kings, in garments, o'er their people reign, And eat, and drink, from vessels wrought of ore. Which glitters on each river's sandy shore. There that — the yellow gold you precious deem — You'll see where'er you go before you gleam, For earth with shining treasure there doth teem ! But you wall need a thousand men at least Ere on its fruits, and riches, you can feast ! " These welcome words, that Vasco Nunez heard, His heart with joyful expectations stirred. He then resolved to win this dazzling prize. And crown his life with fruitful enterprise. He hastened to Darien to prepare, And found Valdivia f — with provisions, there. * He doubtless referred to the bolsas of Peru — large rafts, nearly square, and each with a single mast, and sail. These vessels are still used on the west coast of South America. t Valdivia, who was chosen Regidor of the colony after the deposition of Enciso, had been sent to San Domingo, for pro- visions, and recruits, on the departure of the latter, who was to touch at that port on his way to Spain. THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 43 " To San Domingo back," said he, " repair. And this dispatch to Hayti's ruler bear, Which tells him of a region, rich and new, That I am eager — Regidor — to view. Solicit him to ask the King for aid, Describing all the progress we have made: And take the treasure with you for the Crown — The royal fifth that we have melted down — And have it sent without delay to Spain ; For gold may win when words are all in vain ! " II. Valdivia sailed, and Vasco Nunez mused. And, then, along the coast, for booty, cruised. He heard of rich Dobayba's golden fane. And sought it long, impelled by thirst of gain, Yet found it not, but met with countless foes, And gave, and took, a hurricane of blows Ere he, with spoils, and captives, journeyed back To find Darien threatened with attack. A secret plot, the native hosts had formed. Darien they determined should be stormed. 'T was then that Vasco's lovely Indian bride Proved unto him, and his, a faithful guide, For from her brother's tongue the plot she gleaned. And, this divulging, Vasco Nunez screened. The plot was foiled, and all its leaders slain, And still triumphant o'er the land was Spain : But factious discontents again arose. And from the camp was banished all repose. While hunger pressed, and no relief appeared. Valdivia's loss, or treachery, was feared. At length two caravels from Hayti came, And fanned, with succor, Hope's expiring flame. While they to Vasco Nunez tidings brought, 44 THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. Which in his mind a revolution wrought; But of Valdivia's fortunes naught was known, Nor he the island reached, to claim his own. Enciso's tale had reached the Sovereign's ear, And Vasco Nunez learned he'd much to fear. His hopes, and fortunes, seemed already crushed, And with chagrin and rage his features flushed. One chance remained — to find the Southern Sea, And let the world his grand achievement see — Before the ro3'al mandate reached the land To rob him — and for ever — of command. Such great success would surely favor win, For crimes atone, and cover ev'ry sin. A thousand men were needed, it was true. And to his standard he could call but few ; Yet fame, and fortune — life itself^ perchance — Hinged on that enterprise — that single chance. The ships had brought recruits to swell the throng, From which he picked the resolute, and strong. And then with scarce two hundred in his train — And bloodhounds, each submissive to a chain — He led the way, a splendid realm to gain. With friendly natives bringing up the rear. He knew his danger, though he felt no fear. A brigantine, and nine canoes, in line. Receded, from Darien, o'er the brine,* And reached, in safety, Coyba's welcome shore. Where gold, and pearls, the chief — Careeta — wore. He met his daughter — Vasco^s beaming bride — As one who felt a father's loving pride. And gave to Vasco Nunez greeting, kind. And precious gifts, their friendship more to bind ; * Vasco Nunez embarked, with 190 Spaniards and a number of Indians, September i, 1513. THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 4 5 And there the Spaniard left his fleet behind — With half his force to guard it where it lay — And toward the mountains, then, pursued his way : But ere he left the coast he knelt in prayer, And Mass was said to all who gathered there. With armor, and with weapons, loaded down, The Spaniards journeyed toward the mountains' crown. Through forests dense, and passes deep, and wild, The valiant band intrepidly defiled. And bravely toiled up precipices steep, And, here and there were fissures forced to leap. With splendid fervor shone the tropic sun. Whose scorching rays the toilers sought to shun, And numbers sank exhausted by the way : But not for these would Vasco brook delay. He bade them back to Coyba slowly go. While he advanced, and left them far below. At length a warlike host appeared in view, And yelled, and menaced, as they near him drew : Then — armed with bows, and arrows, clubs, and spears. And with no outward sign of inward fears — They on the Spanish band, with fury, rushed. And, for a moment, deemed the strangers crushed ; But when they heard the arquebuses roar. And saw their comrades slain, or flecked with gore They felt they fought with demons, thunder-armed. Whose lives against assailing foes were charmed. And in dismay — pursued — away they fled. And left behind them full six hundred dead, Their chieftain Quaraquah among the slain. O'er all the fleeing, Terror held its reign. The bloodhounds tore their victims with their fansfs. Who perished in excruciating pangs. 'i=>- 46 THE DISCO VER V OF THE PA CIFIC. While swordsmen, with their weapons, hundreds slew. And lancers pierced unnumbered bodies through. A group of chieftains — clad in robes of white — Ere long were overtaken in their flight, And by the dogs of war to pieces torn. With none around, their hapless lot to mourn. The victors from the vanquished gathered spoil. And then renewed their journey, and their toil. Save those who — sick, or wounded — helpless lay, Or fell to hunger, and fatigue, a prey. But sixty-eight remained of all the band To scale the heights, and view the ocean strand. Emerging from the forest, with their guides, They climbed the naked mountain's rocky sides, And, in the pure, and balmy, morning air. Beheld the summit near them, gray, and bare. " Halt ! " was the cry of Vasco Nunez then. And not a step beyond advanced his men : But he kept on with palpitating heart — Resolved to play alone his mighty part — And from tlie mountain-top the prospect eyed — A scene that white man ne'er before descried. With rugged mountains, and savannas green. And forests dense, and wand'ring streams between, There, far below, the promised ocean lay — A mirror shining in the beams of day,* Extending far as human eye could reach From w^here he stood above the rocky beach. In gratitude, and rapture, Vasco knelt. And strove, in prayer, to picture all he felt. And uttered thanks, impassioned, and sincere. To Him whose guiding hand had led him here. * This was on September 26, 1513, twenty days after the departure from Careeta. THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CHYC. 47 Then, calling on his comrades to ascend, Before the Throne of Grace he bade them bend. " Behold ! " said he, " this grand, and glorious sight That fills me with unspeakable delight ! Let us to God our thanks, devoutly, give. And pray that we to conquer all may live — The world so new that here before us lies, And ne'er till now was seen by Christian eyes ! Let us this heathen realm evangelize. Nor ever shrink from holy enterprise, But preach the gospel wheresoe'er we wend ; And to His glory may our actions tend ! To me — my comrades! — be ye staunch, and true, And wealth ye'll reap, whose like ye never knew, While great will be your service to the King — So great that poets of your fame will sing ! Eternal glory, too, on high, you'll gain, For winning this barbaric world for Spain, And to the Faith converting all within — Idolaters who, now, are steeped in sin. A new career — my soldiers ! — we begin ! " The Spaniards, then, embraced him as their friend. And vowed devotion ne'er, on earth, to end. While one — a priest — devoutly raised his voice. And said — " My brethren, let us here rejoice," And chanted the Te Deu?n loud, and clear, Which made the heroes feel that God was near; And, kneeling, all the rest, with hearts sincere. Took up the sweet, the grand — majestic — strain, And tears of joy among them fell like rain. With pious fervor each the anthem sung. And inspiration seemed on ev'ry tongue ; And ne'er oblation purer rose on High, Than from this mountain top, beneath the sky — An altar thus so richly sanctified. The Spaniards rose, and — wond'ring — looked awide. 48 THE DISCO VER V OF THE PA CIFIC. Was this some sea embraced by lands unknown, Or some vast ocean, stretching zone to zone. Or that which washed on Oriental shores. Where Marco Polo gathered precious ores ? Was // untraversed save by Indian arks. Or was it swiftly ploughed by splendid barks, Whose sails were spread — like theirs — to catch the wind, And were they laden with the wealth of Ind? Was it bedecked with islands rich in spice. And gems, and gold, and pearls, surpassing price ? What golden realms were those of which they heard, And which their breasts with strange emotions stirred ? A thousand questions seemed at once to rise, To which Imagination gave replies ; And in conjecture all were lost who gazed. The revelation held them rapt, amazed. Then from a stately tree a cross was wrought, And to the spot by zealous toilers brought. And when uplifted, there a shadow threw — The symbol of the faith, divine, and true. And of the Saviour's blood on Calv'ry spilt. A monument of stones was round it built, And on the tree was carved the Sovereign's name — The outward mark of Spain's indubious claim — While Vasco Nunez said — "I now proclaim This ocean, and its realms, belong to Spain, And may its monarchs o'er it ever reign ! " The great Pacific Ocean thus was found. And Vasco Nunez felt himself renowned. He, with his band, descended, now, the slope, — Each one elated — buoyant, gay — with hope, — And toward the ocean boldly led them on ; THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 49 But ere he'd far on this his journey gone, A native host appeared in warlike guise, And warned him back with loud, defiant cries. In Indian terror Spanish safety lay, And Vasco Nunez opened, then, the fray, And filled the savage mind with wild dismay. The arquebuse's flash, and deaf'ning sound, And the impatient bloodhound's fatal bound. Spread consternation through the naked throng — The victims of Invasion's blighting wrong — Who through the forest fled to shun their foes, To them, forever, lost their old repose : But Peace, ere long, o'er brutal War prevailed. And Cheeps, the chieftain, Spanish guests regaled, And calabashes brought them, filled with gold, Which gladdened Vasco Nunez to behold ; Who, in return, gave mirrors, beads and bells, Which charmed the unadorned barbaric belles, And made the chieftain feel unwonted pride. While all his people, too, for baubles sighed. Those left behind where Quaraquah was slain Were ordered on, their comrades to regain. While scouts were sent by Vasco to explore The shortest way to reach the sea-beat shore. Alonzo Martin reached it ere the rest. And there embarked on ocean's tranquil breast, And said—" The first of Spaniards here am I ! Such glory reconciles a man to die! " Then Vasco Nunez with a chosen' few — A band of twenty-six, well armed, and true — Advanced until he gained the ocean's verge * And heard, in whisp'ring tones, its sullen dirge. He knelt beneath a tufted palm-tree there, * He left the village of Cheeps, or Chiapas, on the 29th of September, and reached the ocean on St. Michael's day, and called the spot St. Michael's Bay. 50 THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. And thanked the Holy Trinity in prayer. The rising tide to meet him seemed to run, And shone like molten metal in the sun ; And when it reached his feet, he cried aloud — " Of this achievement I am truly proud ! " And, with the Virgin's banner in his hand, He rose, and left his comrades on the strand, Unsheathed his sword, and wading to his knees, Said — " Mark 1 I take possession of the seas. And all the coasts, and isles, they'll yet reveal. For Arragon, and Leon, and Castile — For Ferdinand, Juana, and the Crown ! Long live the King, and Queen, of great renown ! This gulf I name, as 't is St. Michael's day — In honor of the saint — St. Michael's Bay. Spain here — henceforth — shall hold eternal sway, And, while the world endures, let all obey ! " Those on the shore responded with applause. And vowed, as Spaniards, to defend her cause : Tiien tasting of the waters, rising near, " Each drop," said they, " doth savor of a tear. We taste the ocean in the sparkling brine. The hand that led us is the hand Divine. Thank God once more, to whom the glory be. For guiding Christians to this mighty sea ! " Then crosses on the trees they carved with care, And Vasco Nunez knelt again in prayer. For Chivalry, and Faith went hand in hand — The Sword, and Cross — among the daring band. Whose minds were tinged with superstitious hues. And prone to conjure too romantic views. in. The Spanish chief the country round explored, Inspiring terror oi the Christian's sword, THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 5 1 And adding daily to his golden hoard, While natives told him tales of old Peru, And fired his ardor for adventures new. At length he said — " I'll venture on the deep. And gold, and pearls, in other regions reap," Though warned the stormy season had begun, And of the risk canoes at sea would run. With sixty men, and nine equipped canoes. And stalwart braves to constitute his crews, He started on his enterprising cruise. Across the bay the small armada steered, But those on board ere long the danger feared. For winds blew high, and waves tumultuous rolled, And quicker beat the hearts of e'en the bold : But ere the night they reached an islet's beach, And said — "Once more for help we God beseech ! " They sank to rest, but ere they'd slumbered long The winds, and ocean, sang a wilder song. The waters foamed, and rose by swift degrees. And breakers rushed, and roared, and lashed the trees, And one by one their topmost boughs submerged. The night was dark ; the skiffs were fast below, With billows o'er them dancing to and fro. The ocean round the islet wildly surged. And, fleetly, foot by foot it smaller grew Until at last it vanished from the view ; Yet still the waters round the Spaniards rose — Who felt despairing, agonizing throes — And reached their girdles where they, trembling, stood. The breakers seemed to clamor for their blood. And sounds appalling drifted o'er the flood. " To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, I cry — And to the Holy Virgin — ere I die," Said Vasco Nunez : — " Let their will be done, 52 THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. But still I trust my course has not been run, And that I'll live to see another sun." Just then the moon above the waters shone, A welcome sovereign on her silver throne — And less terrific grew the winds and waves. " Behold, His children thus Jehovah saves ! " The Spanish chieftain cried to those around : — *' In realms above each Christian here is crowned !" The waters slowly ebbed, and land was seen, Touched by the Queen of Night with mellow sheen ; And all rejoiced where all had mourned before, Their awful peril from submersion o'er. When on their Ararat had dawned the day They found their food and clothing washed away. With all that, erst, in their flotilla lay. And shattered wrecks alone of this remained. The spectacle the Spaniards deeply pained. They — faint, and weary — gazed in mute despair. But each for safety spoke, at heart, a prayer. Then Vasco Nunez said — " We'll these repair," And with their girdles some were braced, and bound. But few canoes that still could float were found, And some in splintered fragments strewed the ground. The cracks, and holes, were caulked with pounded weeds. And covered, here and there with riven reeds; And all embarked in these surviving arks — Four fragile, crippled, overladen barks — Which on the bounding waters rose and fell, And trembled in the vortex of the swell. Sunk almost to the foaming verge were they And those within were dashed with flying spray, While ev'ry yawning gulf between the waves Suggested to the gazers wat'ry graves. THE DISCO VER V OF THE PA CIFIC. 53 All day they toiled, both hungered and athirst, And some in silence, Vasco Nunez cursed; But as the sun forsook the western sky, They reached the land, and gave a joyful cry. 'T was midnight ere they gained the Indian town, - Where Vasco Nufiez preached the Cross and ^ Crown, But unsubmissive found the native host, Who warned him, through his guides, to leave the coast ; Whereon he let the raging bloodhounds loose. And fired his arms till all had cried a truce, When he his booty found in gold and pearls, And beauty saw, in all the native girls, While in abundance fruits, and homely fare. Were garnered in the habitations there. The morning proved the land divinely fair. There plantains, and bananas, clustered, grew, And sweet ananas show^ed their golden hue, And pear-like cherimoyas pendant hung. And cocoanuts were nestling in the trees, And yellow maize was waving in the breeze, And pomegranates seemed to blush within. Perchance 't was such that tempted Eve to sin. A wilderness of fruit and bloom was here, And harvest-time for man was all the year. But now, behold ! the Red Man's doom was near. IV. The Spanish leader sent his Indian guides To seek the chief along the mountain sides, And him — Tummakko — there, at length, they found. And begged he'd meet the Spaniards, so renowned. Who served their friends, but punished all their foes. He, with them, sent his son to peace propose, 54 THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. And when with gifts the young caziqiie returned, No more with wrath the injured father burned. Thus friendl}^ actions hatred soon dispelled, And Indians in the Spaniards gods beheld. The chieftain added largely to their spoil, While they in pleasure found relief from toil. Two hundred pearls he gave them, great in size. Which kindled signs of rapture in their eyes, And then he told them where he gathered these — • The precious jewels fashioned by the seas. Five leagues away the pearly islands lay, And he dispatched his divers there for more, And with them journeyed Spaniards, to explore. " Beyond them, further south," said he, " there lies A country that invites your enterprise, Where gold abounds, and lamas burdens bear. Great houses, built of stone and brick are there ; And garments you may see the people wear ; While o'er the realm a mighty monarch reigns. And all is done that he — the chief — ordains." Thus of Peru again Don Vasco heard, And glowing thoughts, once more, his bosom stirred. The chieftain traced, with inartistic hand, The outline of a lama in the sand. " A camel ! " cried Balboa. " 'T is the East, For only there is found that noble beast. How much I long this ocean to explore. But I must first return, the mountains o'er, And gather strength to conquer as I go. For Kubla Khan may prove himself a foe. Behold, my comrades, what Columbus sought ! Who knows with what this great event is fraught ? " To him Tum-mak-ko gave a vast canoe. Hewn from the tallest tree, the country grew. And manned by Indians, o'er a hundred strong. THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 5 5 A hundred feet, and ten, the craft was long, And all its paddles were with pearls inlaid, While in its centre rose a roof for shade. In this the Spanish leader left the shore. Beyond the bay, the seaboard to explore,* And landing there again, with sword in hand, He cried — " I take possession of the land ! " And wading deep — his banner o'er him raised — Said — " Father, Son and Holy Ghost be praised ! " The pencilled forms of islands met his view Against the mighty vault of heavenly blue — The Isles of Pearl that later famous grew — f And .with a wistful eye he scanned them o'er, Athirst to glean the harvest, rich, they bore ; But he was wisely warned not there to go When winds were prone in sudden gusts to blow, And — prudence-led — refused to venture far, For he was born beneath an evil star, And deemed it rash, too much to test his fate. Still later he Tum-mak-ko bade adieu, $ And steered to Tee-o-kan his great canoe. Where he, the chieftain captured, and despoiled, And, then, for gold, and pearls — his plunder — ■ toiled, — And deemed his duty to his country done, — • Yet o'er to friendship, soon, the savage won ; For something in his courtly manner charmed. And enmity in native breasts disarmed. He, now, prepared to leave this Southern Sea, But, ere he journeyed, bent, in prayer, the knee. And asked protection from the Holy Three. * This was on the 29th of October, 1513. t Vasco Nunez named the group the Pearl Islands, and the central and largest one of the number Isla Rica, X He left on the 3d of November, 1513, for the provmce of the Cazique Tee-o-kan, or Teaochan. S6 THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. His course across the mountains, backward, lay, And up the steep ascent he led the way, With all his band, and friendly native guides : But as they climbed the Cordilleras' sides They searched for water, day by day, in vain, And vainly, too, devoutly prayed for rain. The burning sun above them brightly shone ; And tortures made the panting toilers groan ; While many sank exhausted to the ground; And by their thirst all former ills were crowned. At length they found a fountain in a glen. And felt a joy unpictured e'er by pen. The chieftain here was Poncar, rich in gold — Of whose great wealth they long before were told — And to the village, where his wigwam rose. The Spaniards hurried, heedless of repose : But he had fled, distrustful of his foes. Though, in abundance, gold he left behind — Three thousand crowns of precious shining ore — Which only served to make them long for more ; And so they sent their guides to bring him back-r To coax, and soothe, or threaten with attack — And Poncar came, with three exalted braves. The Spaniards said — "Your flight has made you slaves ! Reveal your mines, or perish where you stand ! " They told whate'er they knew of this their land, But those who questioned, doubted as they spoke, And into angry speech before them broke, And tortured them new riches to disclose. Then added brutal murder to their woes ; For they were torn by bloodhounds where they stood ; And Innocence — defenceless — shed its blood. Foul be this blot on daring Vasco's fame ; And vet he did it in the Saviour's name. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC, 57 Where Poncar died they tarried thirty days, And chanted morn, and eve, Jehovah's praise, And met the comrades they had left behind — To whom they found that Fortune had been kind — And gathered gold where'er it met their sight, And wooed the native maidens with delight. Then, through Comagre, by its river, wild, O'er rugged mountains, slowly, they defiled ; And precipices climbed that crossed their course. And heard the condor's cry — above them — hoarse; And into deep, umbrageous valleys passed, While Famine forced them long, at times, to fast; And those — the natives — who their burdens bore, In nmnbers sank, alas ! to rise no more. At length, they reached a village, and supplies. And raised, in prayer, to God their grateful eyes. Though prone to sin their faith was deep and strong, And faith they thought atoned for ev'ry wrong ; And by the sword they deemed they served the Cross ; And saw salvation in their golden dross. By bigotry, and superstition swayed. The Spaniards sinned, and then for pardon prayed, And for their crimes implored Almighty aid. VI. They now advanced to meet a great cazique. Whose name the guides with terror seemed to speak — Tu-ban-a-ma, whose deeds had won renown — And forced a march upon his mountain town. With sixty men — the strongest of his band — 58 THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. Balboa swiftly reached the chieftain's land, And stealthily, and suddenly, by night — When he, and his, were unprepared for fight — Descended on his primitive abode. And blood from unoffending bodies flowed. The chieftain, and his household gathered there, Were captured, as if led into a snare. And he — astounded — groaned in wild despair. To learn the secret of his golden store Balboa told him he should rule no more. And gave the order — " Tie him hand, and foot, And give him to the dogs before his hut ! " And anger with the trembling savage feigned, Who asked the charge on which he stood arraigned. " Take all my gold, and bid me find you more. But spare my life — great swordsman — I implore ! " In touching accents, spoke the mountain chief, While all his wives, and people, shared his grief. Don Vasco, yielding, said — " Your life I spare ! Now let your braves your ransom hither bear ! " Three thousand crowns in gold, at dawn, they brought — Ore into forms artistic rudely wrought — And — later — yet three thousand crowns beside. The Spaniards with delight the treasure eyed, And, Vasco Nunez set the chieftain free. " This much," said he, " he well deserves from me!" Ere long the way-worn band the march resumed. But some to death by fell disease were doomed, And health no more in Vasco's features bloomed, For Fever's burning hand had touched his brow, And to the tyrant he was forced to bow ; But, quickly, he regained his wonted air. And in the toilsome journey bore his share. THE DISCO VER V OF THE PA CIFIC. 59 The sick, in hammocks, followed in the rear, And these he strove to comfort, and to cheer, While down the rugged slope he led the way, And longed once more to sight Darien's bay. The broad Atlantic glittered far below As on they marched with weary steps, and slow, But in the end they reached the northern shore, With all their pearls, and all their golden ore, And haggard faces looks of pleasure wore. They through Comagre passed to Coyba's coast. And met Careeta, and his friendly host. And told their story grand to comrades there. Who longed their glory, and their gold, to share. The brigantine lay waiting on the strand, And Vasco, there embarking, left the land. And reached Darien ere the morrow's eve,* W^iere some the wondrous tale could scarce be- lieve : But when they saw the wealth of pearls, and gold. No more they doubted aught their comrades told. "The ocean that Columbus sought I've found," Don Vasco cried — " Success the search has crowned ! The riches of the Orient are ours. And we, ere long, shall gaze upon its towers, And gather spoil in Mangi, and Cathay, And o'er the East extend the Christian's sway ; For, soon, again I'll seek the other shore, And far and wide that Southern Sea explore 1 " VII. Don Vasco wrote the tidings to the Crown, And felt he'd won the laurels of renown. *The 19th of January, 1514. 6o THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. And to his monarch's favor paved the way. Before him, now, a world of promise lay. He sent the royal fifth, and more, to Spain, And waited for rewards he hoped to gain. His caravel, howe'er, was slow to sail, And — later on — was crippled by a gale, So ere the gold, and tidings, reached the Court, Enciso there had made an ill report, For with his wrongs his nature bubbled o'er. And hate he, toward his rival, Vasco, bore. Who governed but, said he, by force, and fraud, And who had been in Hayti's isle outlawed. " Another I will send to rule the land. And supersede Balboa in command," Exclaimed the King, and Davila* he chose To journey west, Don Vasco to depose. And strip him of the honors that he claimed. A soldier, for his martial prowess famed. This Davila— Pedrarias — was brave. And yet, at heart, a tyrant, and a knave. Zamudio— Don Vasco's friend — in vain For him — Balboa — favor strove to gain, ^ Though he had with Enciso bade him sail To counteract at Court his evil tale. 'T was then that Colmenaris home returned, From whom the monarch cheering tidings learned^ The secret of the mighty Southern Sea. "A thousand men," wrote Vasco, " send to me. That I may cross the mountain range between. And conquer that which Christian ne'er hath seen." Ambition, av'rice moved the monarch's breast. " A fleet," said he, " shall voyage to the West, With Davila — the gallant— in command ; " * Don Pedro Arias Davila, commonly called Pedrarias. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 6i And fifteen ships, and caravels, ere long, — * Manned by chivalrous souls — two thousand strong Sailed down the Guadalquivir, westward bound, To seek the sea Don Vasco erst had found. A little later Vasco's caravel— That came his story of success to tell — Was borne upon the Guadalquivir's swell. Her captain — Arbolanchaf — sought the King, And said — " O Sire ! to you I treasures bring. And tidings of a sea before unknown. And regions that with gold, and pearls are sown — All which are now beneath your righteous sway. That sea, methinks, doth lead to rich Cathay. Don Vasco Nunez 't was who gained the prize — The splendid fruit of noble enterprise — And he is eager still for conquests, new, And fain would reach an empire called Peru, Where cities rise in grandeur on the view. And ships with sails career o'er ocean's blue, And camels bear their burdens to and fro, And gold like vegetation seems to grow. He only waits to swell his valiant band Ere he returns to conquer all the land, And gorgeous Oriental shores explore, And harvests reap of gems, and golden ore." The monarch heard the tale with glad surprise — Which gave a diamond glitter to his eyes — And sore repented of the deed he'd done. Don Vasco Nunez great renown had won, And yet the fleet that westward ploughed its wa}^. Ere long, would leave him shorn of all his sway. * This fleet sailed from San Lucar on the 12th of April, 1514. t Pedro de Arbolancha, a firm friend of Balboa's, who had been in the expedition to the Pacific. 62 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. Had Vasco's vessel sooner come to Spain, Triumphant would have been the hero's reign — . So much on little oftentime doth hinge, And moments, with their stain, may ages tinge. Castile resounded with Don Vasco's praise. And King, and country, wreathed his name with bays. VIII. In peaceful toil he passed his days the while. And made the earth with blooming orchards smile. And fashioned fields, and gardens, fair to view, Where in abundance all he planted grew ; And awed, or won, the natives, far and near, Till sons of Spain from these had naught to fear. His band was, now, five hundred strong, and more, And all the look of gallant spirits bore. They built a city on Darien's shore. Which prospered well beneath their leader's sway, Who looked for coming ships from day to day, Resolving there to wait for news from Spain Ere he rsturned to range the southern main. At length, in June, one splendid moonlit night, Castile's armada slowly hove in sight. And anchored, from the coast, two leagues away. Pedrarias an envoy sent to land. Announcing his arrival, and command. Who marvelled at Don Vasco's simple state — One whose pretensions he had heard were great — An unassuming man in homely dress, But with a courtly mien, and grand address. Don Vasco felt chagrin, and some surprise. Yet none betrayed before the envoy's eyes, And answered — " Tell the Don he's welcome here, Where all the holy Cross, and Crown, revere ; THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 63 And he will find me willing to obey ; And to his hands I, now, resign my sway." But many cried — " Invaders we'll repel. Against them all 't is virtue to rebel. Don Vasco rules : his banner we'll sustain, And o'er us ne'er this new recruit shall reign ! Long live the King,— long live the Queen — of Spain ! " But Vasco said — " Your duty is to yield. Reserve your prowess for a fairer field ; " And all were, then, submissive to his will, Though some exclaimed — " The signs, indeed, are ill," And felt their blood with indignation warm. Each floating hive disgorged its human swarm, And o'er two thousand Spaniards landed there, With flags, and music, floating on the air. While at their head Pedrarias was seen. His wife beside him, gorgeous as a queen. And pomp, and splendor glitt'ring all around. Balboa bowed with rev'rence deep, profound. And said, " I yield obedience, and love," And wished him countless blessings from above, Then led him to the wigwam where he dwelt. And Nature's garden gifts — abundant — dealt. The new commander friendly feelings feigned, And from Don Vasco all his secrets gained, But only then to own himself a foe, And strike a paltry tyrant's cruel blow. He charged him with Enciso's overthrow, And Nicuesa's death, and minor crimes, _ And vengeance vowed in hatred sundry times, So jealous felt he of his great renown. With petty spite he strove to beat him down, And meant, in chains, to send him back to Spain, 64 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. But fearing this might prove the captive's gain, And Vasco be a hero none the less, In other ways he labored to oppress. He tried to colonize the southern coast, That this might ne'er become his rival's boast. And hide, or filch, the laurels he had won — The glory of the deeds that he had done : But Retribution followed him with speed, For Pestilence around him sowed its seed, And nigh a thousand perished of his band. While he was stricken, too, by Fever's hand, And Famine stalked, the while, throughout the land. About the huts, and roads, in dire array — A ghastly sight — the dead unburied lay. Gaunt Hunger triumphed where disease had failed. A carnival of death, and want, prevailed. He said, at length — " All those who will may flee," And many sought a refuge on the sea. Some steered for Cuba's shore their caravel, And, homeward-bound, some bade the West fare- \vell, Of ruined health, and fortunes, tales to tell. IX. When from his couch Pedrarias arose. He found his people still oppressed by woes, And bade them o'er their sorrows cease to brood, And range the country far, and near, for food. Else they would perish in the wild domain. The work was done, nor proved the task in vain. Then other bands were sent in search of gain, Who wheresoe'er they wandered havoc wrought, Nor gave to native rights a single thought, And marred the plans Don Vasco had designed, By making hostile those who erst were kind. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 65 X. At length there came a ship direct from Spain, Whose tidings filled Pedrarias with pain. It bore a note to Vasco from the king, Which seemed his rival's heart with rage to wring. The monarch praised him for his daring deed, And honors, rank, and offices decreed. Which left him nigh co-equal with his foe.* Pedrarias was staggered by the blow. He sought, himself, the letter to retain, And time, by wily subterfuge, to gain, But he was foiled in this ignoble aim ; And, then, he tried to further blast his fame, And justify refusal to obey. " 'T would wrong the king," said he, " to yield him sway. And I should be as nothing where I stand — A ruler with but little to command." A compromise, howe'er, at last was made By which he gave the titles, and the grade, But not the right to govern in the land Till this was granted at the tyrant's hand. Don Vasco placed his trust in Time, and Right, And prophesied a future grand, and bright,- But with his title, friends around him came. Which roused his foe to blacken more his name. He charged him with conspiring to rebel — Yet in substantiation naught could tell — And, seizing him, condemned him to a cage. So great was the suspicious dastard's rage. * Balboa was appointed Adelantado of the South Sea, and governor of the provinces of Panama and Coyba, but subor- dinate to the general command of Pedrarias, who was, how- ever, ordered to consult him on all matters of importance. 66 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. From this, howe'er, the captive soon was freed Ere sentence had been followed by the deed : But Vasco Nunez, persecution-stung, Grew poor in purse, and felt at heart unstrung. XI. The Southern Sea Pedrarias allured, And to the Isles of Pearl his heart was moored, For there he hoped unbounded wealth to reap In jewels formed and cradled in the deep. Like Venus, in her beauty, from the foam, They came perfected from their wat'ry home, Or, as Minerva from the brain of Jove They left their shells — the ocean's treasure-trove. He knew Don Vasco best could lead the way To where those isles of boundless riches lay, But that would yet distinguish him the more. And add a chaplet to the bays he wore. He bade Morales — Caspar — journey there, And named Pizarro, too, the task to share, For he — Francisco — by their shores had been — An actor with Don Vasco on the scene. With sixty daring spirits, born of Spain, They led the van across the mountain chain, And paddling from the Southern Ocean's shore. Their country's banner, to the islets bore : And there they shed, in battle, native gore. While arquebuses spoke with rattling roar. And loosened bloodhounds bayed in hot pursuit, And, Man, in terror, fled each angry brute : But Peace, ere long, o'er cruel War prevailed. And those who erst were foes as friends were hailed. " A wealth of pearls, but little gold have I," The chieftain said, with candor in his eye ; "■ But yonder lies a region where it grows, THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 67 And gilds the course of ev'ry stream that flows, And glitters in each river's sandy mouth," And as he spoke he pointed toward the south — Along the line of mountains tall, and grand, That stretched, till lost to view, beside the strand. Pizarro heard the story, old, anew, And saw with mental eyes the land Peru, And o'er its marvels nigh ecstatic grew, For wealth, and fame, resolving there to sue. The Spanish throng — triumphant — gleaned the spoils, And .deemed themselves repaid for all their toils, Exclaiming — " Fortune's favored ones are we ! " Well freighted with the jewels of the sea They left the isles, again to cross the chain, And tell how great had been their country's gain: But hard indeed they found their journey back, And fierce the Indian warriors in attack. Biru — a great cazique — assailed the band, And forced them, in dismay, to flee the land, And, as they fled, pursued them day by day; I'hen other hosts of Indians gave them fight, And added to the horrors of their flight, And to the awful perils of their plight. A number perished in the bitter strife, And thirst, and famine, in their midst were rife. Back to the Southern Sea their v;and'rings led. Where in canoes from seeming death they sped To climb again the Cordilleras' slope; But fresh reverses nigh extinguished hope. Their journey proved a long-continued fray. At length the remnant reached Darien's Bay, And spread their pearls before astonished eyes, While all forgot their perils in their prize. 68 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. XII. Pedrarias, the while, the land explored, And tried to rule by terror, and the sword. He made the natives, far and near, his foes, And banished from the settlement repose. The Spaniards felt by day, and night, alarm. So much the signs around them boded harm. They watched the plains, the mountains, and the sea. And danger seemed, where'er they gazed, to see. The green savannas waving in the breeze. The silver streams, and patriarchal trees. For lurking foes, by anxious eyes, were scanned. And oft, in prayer for safety, knelt the band. XIII. While thus with cares Pedrarias was vexed, And by his feud with Vasco much perplexed. The Padre — yea, the Bishop — of the fold His plan for peace to him — the leader — told. "Why quarrel thus," said he, "with one so bold. And make a foe when you might win a friend — One who could either punish, or defend. And serve you well, or work you grievous ill ? The bitter cup for him why further fill. And strengthen more your people's evil will ? One course remains to blot the past from view, And this, I pray, with willing heart, pursue. You've daughters fair : on Vasco one bestow. And blessings on your head from this will flow. A popular hidalgo in his prime. And with a record splendid, and sublime. He'll shed his lustre on your own career, THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 69 And while — infirm — you fail from year to year He in the noon, and vigor of his days — And favored by the King with grateful praise — Can guide affairs, and mitigate your toil, And pour on Faction's waters soothing oil." Pedrarias by argument was won. And said — " I'll take Don Vasco as my son." His spouse consented ere the day was done. And Vasco found his courtship had begun — A happy ending he had ne'er divined. The tender vows of marriage, soon, were signed. And Vasco gave his promise to be true : But naught of this the daughter chosen knew. Nor had Balboa e'er the maiden seen. The broad Atlantic rolled, the two, between. For she was still a happy girl in Spain, Though summoned now, in haste, to cross the main. The suitor viewed the. prospect with delight, For sorrow fled, and all around was bright. Though he remembered he'd an Indian bride — A faithful friend, companion, slave, and guide — And o'er the thought of parting faintly sighed. The Bishop deemed his triumph truly great To turn to love such jealousy, and hate. And said — " My friends, I each congratulate ! " XIV. Pedrarias — ihus won to friendship's side — In Vasco Nuiiez felt a sudden pride, And, erst a foe, became his dearest friend. His proffered favors seemed without an end, And all to his aggrandizement to tend. He for the past was eager to atone. And linked Don Vasco's fortunes with his own. He gave him leave to search the Southern Sea, 70 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. And left him in his enterprises free, Which gave ambition to achieve, a zest. His cherished project Vasco forward pressed. And planned to launch a fleet of brigantines To navigate through ultramontane scenes. The timber, and the rigging, he prepared. And then, with zeal, for transportation cared. Across the mighty mountains these were borne By negroes from their native Guinea torn, And Indian braves, who perished by the way. The task stupendous filled them with dismay As on they toiled, and struggled day by day. At length they reached a river by the sea, And Vasco knelt, and thanked the Trinity : But worms, alas ! were boring through the wood. And all, ere long, was swallowed by a flood. Yet Vasco, undiscouraged, planned anew. And stately trees he felled that near him grew, And o'er the Andes sent for fresh supplies, And saw success attend his enterprise. Two brigantines on Bolsas river lay. In which the brave explorer sailed away Triumphant o'er the obstacles opposed. In fervent prayer again his eyes were closed, While in the Faith his confidence reposed. Appalling oft his daring task had seemed, But through the gloom the light of Hope had gleamed. And, now, he felt for all his pains repaid, And asked for triumphs new, Almighty aid. Before him stretched the vast, mysterious sea — The restless emblem of Infinity ; — But who could tell to where its waters led ? A world unknown before his vision spread, And Fancy, and Imagination fed. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC, XV. To Isla Rica, and the isles around, Don Vasco, first, in search of pearls, was bound. And there designed yet other barks to build, Which he, in thought, with glist'ning treasure filled. He reached the group, and soon the work began ; Then down the seaboard south, and eastward, ran : But, twenty leagues beyond St. Michael's Bay, His crews beheld what filled them with dismay — A school of whales, each spouting on its way. They deemed them rocks, and breakers, in the night, And' anchored till the morn had shed its light, Intending, still, their voyage to pursue ; But when it dawned the wind against them blew, And with it Vasco Nunez changed his course, And landed at Chuchama all his force, Avenging there a troop of Spaniards slain — * To glorify the Cross, and Crown of Spain — Till blood had stained the mountains, and the plain, And bloodhounds made a hecatomb of dead. Then to the Isles of Pearl again he sped. Nor knew how much his altered course had cost. By that event, to him, Peru was lost. For had he onward kept his wat'ry way. Perchance he'd soon have found that new Cathay ; And all his future might have thus been changed, And he, a victor, o'er an empire ranged. XVI. On went the work of building brigantines, And Isla Rica witnessed busy scenes, * A party of ten belonging to the expedition of Francisco Pizarro and Caspar Morales. 72 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. While Vasco sent from sea to sea again For fresh supplies — a gang of fitting men. Then tidings from Darien reached his ear, Which made him eager further news to hear. Pedrarias was ordered back to Spain, And, in his stead, another sent to reign. A new commander might his work undo, And, more to learn, he more impatient grew, He chose a comrade he esteemed as true. And said — "Across the mountains journey you, And — as your outward purpose — seek supplies. And act with prudence as becomes the wise. If he — Pedrarias — still ruleth there, A courtly message to the courtier bear. Tell all we've done, and all that lies before. And of munitions ask a further store ; Say, too, of soldiers, that we need some more ; Explain delays, and promise greater speed. And take of all he says respectful heed : But if a ruler, new, has come from Spain, Not there a moment, ere you turn, remain. And hasten back, the tidings to impart, That we, ere orders come, may hence depart. And eastward sail, the country to explore, And gather as we go the golden ore : " But Garabito — such was he by name — Resolved to blight his noble leader's fame. Toward Vasco, long he'd felt a secret hate. And, now, said he — " On me depends his fate ! Vindictive, dastard, foul, and base at heart He gloried in revenge — his cruel part. Ere this he'd warned Pedrarias by stealth That Vasco aimed alone at power, and wealth. And meant to act with independent sway, And make himself the ruler of Cathay, Nor e'er designed his daughter fair to wed THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 73 As by an Indian beauty he was led. Pedrarias — the jealous, and the proud — On reading this, his wrath expressed aloud, And all his old suspicions rose anew. And with the lapse of time but deeper grew. While Vasco'sfoes — of whom he numbered few — Of this distrust, were quick to fan the flame, And strove his name — in malice — to defame. XVII. Perfidious Garabito ! — why so base, And yet a loving friend to Vasco's face ? Know then Careeta's daughter charmed his eye, And words between the friends had once run high ; And those which Vasco spoke in angry heat Were cherished as a morsel — bitter — sweet. Malignant in his spirit, this was bliss, And yet, like Judas, he could Vasco kiss. XVIII. Pedrarias, he found commander, still, Though one, ere this, had come, his place to fill, But in the harbor, ere he landed, died. To rouse suspicion Vasco's envoy tried, And thus was summoned to the ruler's side, And captive held, his purpose to disclose. His capture broke the colony's repose, For all exclaimed — " Behold, the ancient feud 'Twixt Vasco, and Pedrarias, renewed ! " Then Garabito told whate'er he knew, And much beside it wilfully untrue — All he suspected, and surmised, and more, To gratify the malice that he bore. On this a friend of Vasco's felt alarm, 74 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. And warned him that his foes designed him harm, And bade him put to sea without delay, Nor trust to Don Pedrarias a day, But look to the Jeronymites "* for aid If charges e'er against him should be made ; For these — the Fathers — would, in Hayti's isle, On this, his expedition, gladly smile, Believing 't would the holy Faith diffuse, And Spain would gain what infidels would lose. The note was intercepted on its way. Which filled its hapless writer with disma}^ And he was seized, and in a dungeon chained. Pedrarias a love of justice feigned, And said — '^A plot! Behold my knowledge gained!" His aim was, now, Don Vasco to secure. He, therefore, sought his victim to allure, For force would on the Southern Sea be vain With valiant spirits in the hero's train. Dissembling feeling he to Vasco wrote — Nor conscience e'er the simulator smote — And asked him to Careeta to repair, And promised, when he came, to meet him there. Expressing friendship as he'd done before : But fearing Vasco would his note ignore, He sent Pizarro, with a chosen troop, To seek Don Vasco at the island group. And bring him, if he could, the mountains o'er — A fettered captive to Careeta's shore. * Through the representations of Las Casas with respect to the cruel treatment of the Indians, Cardinal Ximenes, in 1516, had appointed three Jeronymite Friars to proceed to San Domingo, and remain there, to remedy all abuses connected with the treatment of the natives ; and the exercise of then- authority had a powerful effect for good in the New World. THE DISCO VER Y OF THE PA CIFIC. 7 5 Balboa's friends to warn him felt afraid, Lest they should captives, too, for this, be made, And Terror seemed among them all to reign. The friendly Bishop erst had left for Spain, Or he — perchance — would here his voice have raised, And, as a friend, the valiant Vasco praised. PART III. . The Fate of Vasco Nunez de Balboa. 'T WAS night at Isla Rica — lustrous night. And brightly shed the moon her silver light, Illuminating grandly sea, and land — The lesser isles, and continental strand. And far away, but vivid to the eye, The Cordilleras, vast, eternal, high — While stars with scintillations filled the sky. The tranquil waters like a mirror shone, And Night's Sultana sat a dazzling throne. Don Vasco stood, a gazer on the scene. His figure lighted with the splendid sheen, And looking upward saw a luckless sign. " 'T is strange," said he, " a star doth yonder shine, That tells me I'm in peril of my life ; Yet naught around me seems with danger rife. In health, and strength, I feel I've naught to crave, Nor fear I, yet, I'll fill an early grave. Three hundred men have I, well armed, and brave, And brigantines — aye, four of these — beside With which to navigate this southern tide. And wealth, and glory, waiting where I go. 76 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. What more could man aspire to here below ? Yet Micer Codro told me years ago That when that star shone where it shineth now Death might condemn me at its shrine to bow. How vain are these predictions," and he smiled, " And yet how oft by such are men beguiled ! " 'T was on the morn succeeding eve so bright, While Vasco viewed his future with delight. That ultramontane tidings reached the isle, And that ensnaring letter, full of guile. Don Vasco — unsuspicious — read it o'er, And all unconscious of the fate in store. Or of a wrong, to kindle wrath, he'd done, Obeyed the summons ere another sun. And left his force to wait his quick return ; For he was slow his danger to discern. A faithful few, from those who held command, Alone he chose of all his valiant band To cross the Andes to the northern strand. 'T was as they climbed the lofty mountain chain — And far below them saw the glitt'ring main — That those who brought the tidings, feeling kind. Told Vasco what Pedrarias designed. He marvelled much, and scarce the truth believed. He felt as if his senses had deceived. What cause so great a change, so soon, could work ? What secret in this sudden wrath could lurk ? Some transient ire — perchance — had moved to hate, Or foes had labored envy to create. But this his presence, soon, would dissipate. Could he who'd pledged his fairest daughter's hand, Her suitor seek to ruin in the land ? Thus musing he continued on his way. Nor sought his forward movement to delay. Though on his course he might have turned the while, THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. And journeyed backward to the southern isle, And there repelled pursuers from the shore, ' And sailed upon his voyage to explore. II. As Vasco climbed the Cordilleras' side, And led the way, his comrades' valiant guide— - While Echo to his mountain song replied He saw a troop, Pizarro at its head, And faster — to embrace him — onward sped: But in his greeting he was strangely cold. And, then, on Vasco's arm laid sudden hold. His story, by the action, he had told. *' I come," said he, " to take you back in chains ; You're branded as an enemy of Spain's." Don Vasco looked, astonished, in his face. Then yielded to be manacled with grace. " Is this," said he — reproachful in his lone— " The way that you, to serve a friend are prone t Francisco, ah ! Francisco, we were friends : Remember God the innocent defends ! " Then he was led to Ada on the coast, Where dwelt Careeta, and his swarthy host, And in a dungeon there was left to mourn. From all his rights, and freedom, rudely torn. III. Pedrarias pretended friendship still. And said— "Toward Vasco I've no evil will;" Then visited the captive in his jail, And told him a dissimulator's tale. " Feel not," said he, " oppressed by this, my son ;- Not less could I, in duty, now have done In view of accusations that were made: — n 78 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. Nor of this transient rigor be afraid ; Your innocence will, doubtless, soon be proved, And these suspicions of your guilt removed — Your loyalty established to Castile, And to your king exhibited your zeal : " But while he thus to soothe his victim spoke, And hope within his drooping breast awoke, He turned to Espinosa,* of the law, And said — " Indict the wretch, without a flaw, For treason to King Ferdinand of Spain — Conspiracy to filch the southern main — And those — his comrades — who are with him, too: Methinks that to the Crown they're all untrue." 'T was done, and Vasco's trial soon began. He stood before the court an injured man, While Garabito swore to heartless lies, And showed the love of vengeance in his eyes. And falsehood in the movement of his hand. Its progress by Pedrarias was scanned, And when the perjured villain told his tale — " Ha, ah," said he, " not, now, will justice fail ! " And sought again the victim of his wiles But he no more bestowed upon him smiles. He pulled the mask of kindness from his face, And showed a foe without a Christian grace. "Till now," he spoke, with fierce, upbraiding tone, " I deemed you true and loyal to the Throne, And unto me, the servant of the Crown : But in your thirst — ambitious — for renown I find you've been rebellious in your aim And on your name, and mine, have cast a stain. For you no more affection I can bear, Nor can you e'er the flagrant wrong repair. * Caspar de Espinosa, the alcalde mayor, and only lawyer and magistrate in the colony. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 79 Henceforth you'll find I'll treat you as a foe, And Justice may return you blow for blow." Don Vasco's indignation flushed his cheek, And he began in self-defence to speak. " Had I been conscious of my guilt," said he, '' Would I for this have left the Southern Sea ? Was my confiding frankness proof of wrong When I was there with barks, and comrades, strong? What need had I, if aught had I to fear, To journey o'er the Cordilleras here ? — To trust to mercy at your cruel hands When straight before me lay inviting lands? If I.had been rebellious in design The fitting opportunity was mine, For ships, and men — an ample force — had I, To win my way and all my foes defy. I'd but to spread my sails, and forward press — Beseeching God the enterprise to bless — To reap a golden harvest far away In regions independent of your sway. Yet in my simple guilelessness of heart — My innocence — I played this fatal part, And at your mere request, in friendly guise. Put off my promised southern enterprise, And came to meet you, willing to obey : And yet behold me where I am to-day — Degraded, slandered, dungeoned, and in chains. What else for me but death itself remains ? " But all in vain Don Vasco thus appealed. He found the tyrant's heart to mercy steeled, For he exasperation showed the more, And multiplied the manacles he wore. And urged with malice, and indecent speed, The inquisition faster to proceed, And all the ancient charges, then, revived, And at conviction with his foes connived : Bo THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. But still the trial slowly dragged along, For Espinosa recognized the wrong, And felt aversion for the task imposed. At length his judicative labors closed, And GUILTY Vasco Nunez was pronounced; But as this cruel verdict was announced He said — " To mercy, Vasco I commend, For empire he has labored to extend. And shed unfading lustre on the Crown, While for himself, achieving great renown, And this will live, and brighter grow with time. The written law convicts him of the crime. But guiltless still his motives may have been: The hearts of men by God alone are seen. I, too, advise permission to appeal From this our court to that of old Castile." The sentence on his comrades v/as the same, * Though guiltless, too, of treasonable aim. IV. Pedrarias with unrelenting hate, " Impatient felt to seal his victim's fate. Exclaiming — " No appeal I'll tolerate, Nor mercy more for such as he have I. If he is guilty, let the traitor die. Nor ere his death must needless moments fly. To execution bear the wretch away." In Vasco's death he deemed his safety lay, For he had gone too far to e'er retreat. And, with the proverb, said—" Revenge is svi^eet." * Three of his officers — Valderrabano, Munos, and Botello — and Hornanda de Arguello, who had written the inter- cepted letter. Garabito, the informer and perjurer, was, however, pardoned. The trial and execution took place in the year 1517. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 8i He'd ever as a rival Vasco viewed, And Garabito's tale his hate renewed — The hate the marriage articles had lulled — A contract thus by death to be annulled. To spurn his daughter, and dispute his sway, Was, to his mind, the part he meant to play: But Vasco ne'er designed his pledge to break — The soon expected maiden to forsake. But gladly would have wed her when she came. While ne'er was he a rebel in his aim, Though, once embarked upon the Southern Sea, He meant his course of action should be free. Resolved capricious orders to discard, Nor let, by these, his enterprise be marred. Though he designed his conquests but for Spain — Nor toward her felt an atom of disdain — His own deserts, the favor of the throne. The jealousies and obstacles he'd known, The offices the Sovereign had bestowed. The love and friendship that compatriots show^ed, Alike encouraged boldness of design. And made him long with lustre, new, to shine. O'er Ada, gloom and horror seemed to reign, When Vasco, and his melancholy train. Emerged upon the populace's view, While still, and breathless, the observers grew. The scene of execution was the square, And all the Spaniards congregated there, And few were they whose eyes were unbedewed. The spectacle with sorrow all imbued. They thought of Vasco's gallant deeds of arms. His noble mien, his chivalry and charms. The persecution he had calmly borne, 82 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. The rights of which they'd seen him rudely shorn, The dauntless, daring enterprise he'd shown, The Southern Sea — a triumph all his own, The glory for the Cross and Crown he'd won, The grander deeds expected, but undone, The coming maiden, ne'er to be his bride, Pedrarias, his tyranny, and pride ; But such was of the tyrant, now, the dread That from each bosom native courage fled. And none for Vasco dared a voice to raise. Hushed, under terror, was the tongue of Praise. The crier, thus proclaiming, led the way — " A traitor, and usurper, dies to-day. One who aspired himself a crown to win. Behold him reap the penalty of sin ! 'T is by the King's command the deed is done. All ye who hearken learn his crime to shun," As Vasco heard the words he cried — " 'T is false : I ne'er rebelled, whate'er have been my faults. Nor harbored of the crime a single thought, But loyally to serve my Sovereign sought, And ever strove to widen his domain. God knows of my fidelity to Spain ! " His dying words were uttered there in vain. But all who heard them spoken knew them true, Though naught could they, to save the culprit, do. The Cordilleras pierced the southern sky. Toward these he gazed as if to say good-by, Then turned away, in sadness, with a sigh. He knelt before the crucifix to pray, Confessed his sins, and felt them washed away, Received the holy Sacrament, divine, And on his bosom, made the Saviour's sign ; Then, strong in faith, reliant on his God, The scaffold with a step courageous trod. The block with calm demeanor boldly faced. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 83 And laid his head where he the cross had traced. A moment more revealed a headless trunk. Before the sight the startled gazers shrunk — All save the tyrant who, in secret, saw ; And said — " At last triumphant is the law ! " Then one by one his comrades forth were led Till three were, like him, numbered with the dead. A fourth remained — Hernando, Vasco's friend, Whose warning note involved this fatal end. Some interceded even now for him And sought the tyrant in the twilight, dim, But he was stern, and cruel as before. And said — " Why ask for pardon o'er, and o'er. I'd sooner die than one of them should live. No other answer 't is for me to give," And in the tropic twilight's gatlVring gloom The stroke was heard that sealed the victim's doom. The concourse vanished in the fading light, And lamentations ushered in the night : But even this to soothe the tyrant failed. " The traitor's head," said he, " I wish impaled ; Erect a pole within the public square, And place it as a ghastly warning there. Whate'er he left I confiscate to Spain. Triumphant over Treason Law must reign." For days the breeze caressed the victim's hair. And fanned the features, picturesque, and fair, While daily there a plaintive moan arose — A woman's groan, suggestive of her woes. Careeta's daughter mourned her idol dead, And o'er his fate her heart — in anguish — bled. The promised bride came radiant from the sea Expecting her hidalgo, brave, to see. Instead of which she heard the awful tale That made her turn, with sick'ning horror, pale, And then she wept, and cried — " Oh, why was this ?" And found to sorrow turned her hopes of bliss. 84 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. VI. Thus passed away the hero in his prime — * A guihless victim, branded deep with crime — Arrested midway in his grand career, Yet meeting death without a trace of fear, His greatest blemish he deserved too well. He bade the world regretfully farewell — The prey of base, perfidious designs : But o'er his grave the myrtle ever twines. Unjustly dealt a cruel death he died, And o'er his fate all but his murd'rer sighed, For Garabito felt at last remorse. And shed a tear o'er Vasco's headless corse. PART IV. The Story of Valdivia. Valdivia's tragic fate can soon be told. When he for San Domingo sailed with goldf Fair blew the winds to waft his caravel, And till he saw Jamaica all was well. A gale — a wreck — and he, and twenty more, A sailless boat directed toward the shore, But they were tossed nigh half a month at sea Ere they beheld a country on their lee, * At the time of his execution Balboa was in his forty-second year. t This was in 151 2, on his voyage from Darien — of which he was Regidor — under the orders of Balboa. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 85 And soon were stranded on its verdant coast, Where round them gathered an unfriendly host, Who dashed their boat in pieces where it lay, And bore them captive — to the chief — away. 'T was on the eastern coast of Yucatan. They heard the name, and thought it Kubla Khan. Fourteen alone — a famished crew — were left, And these of all but scanty garb bereft. The chieftain gave them banquets of the best. And, in their bondage, they were blessed with rest, While thankful for escaping to the land. They saw in this the Lord's protecting hand : But Terror o'er them soon resumed its sway. The chief selected five he meant to slay — Valdivia of the number — and they died. For all in vain for mercy 't was they cried. Before the native idols they were bled, And on their bodies those who slew them fed. The nine surviving heard their comrades' groans. And saw anon their flesh-divested bones. And from their cage, and death so awful, fled, And in the woods a life of hunger led. Another chieftain captured them at length. And made them daily toil beyond their strength, And one by one they died till two remained — Gonzalo, and Jeronimo, a priest.* The first despaired of succor from the east. And hung his nose, his ears, and lip, with rings. Tattooed his form, and copied native kings. And won a chieftain's daughter as his bricle. The other took his calling for his guide, * Gonzalo Guerrero, a sailor, and Jeronimo de Aguilar — a priest. The former became a great warrior, and married a native princess, and the latter was rescued by Cortez, whom he accompanied in his expedition to Mexico, acting in the capacity of interpreter. 86 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. And, meek, and chaste, his way to favor found, And for his wondrous virtues grew renowned. The chief besought him oft to choose a bride. And brought the fairest damsels to his side. But he as oft the proffered boon dechned, And said — " To single life I'm well resigned, And marriage would to me — a priest — be sin." The chief could ne'er the priest for woman win, Though he was left to virgin charms, and wiles, And wooed to bask in loving Beauty's smiles. He gently all caressing nymphs rebuked. Nor e'er with lover's eyes on maiden looked. By patient houris he was fondly wooed. But all in vain bewitching woman sued. Jeronimo preferred his solitude. Though loving looks, and sighs, on him were rained, He zealously from wedded life refrained. And faithful still to priestly vov/s remained. Years passed away : Cordova's squadron came, ^ But though escape had been his constant aim The coast was distant, and his captors keen. And ne'er by him the Spanish ships were seen. A year, and more, and ships again appeared — Grijalva's f squadron — but to flee he feared, For he was still by jealous eyes deterred. And naught Grijalva of the Soaniards heard. Another year, and Cortez reached the strand,$ And, gleaning tidings of Valdivia's band, A greeting penned, and sent it o'er the land. An Indian bore it to the Spaniard's hand. * Francisco Hernandez de Cordova sailed along the coast on his voyage of discovery. This was in 1517. t Juan de Grijalva, vA\o coasted Yucatan in 1518. } This was in 15 19. THE DISCOVERY OE THE FACIEI C. 87 ^xe read the welcome missive with delight, And at the moment meditated flight. The natives stood around with wond'ring eyes, For much the speaking paper roused surprise. Jeronimo said — "Here are mighty men. With ships, and arms, that far surpass your ken. The thunder and the lightning they can mock. And fill the country with the awful shock. They bless their friends, but all their foemen slay. Propitiate them then without delay." "Jeronimo," the chief replied, "depart. And win for me their great commander's heart." He sent Gonzalo word, but he replied He'd evermore in Yucatan abide. He went, and reached Cozumel's isle at last, And — naked — told the story of the past. Though half forgotten seemed his native tongue. A crimson cloak around him Cortez flung, And warmly gave him welcome to the fleet. The long lost wand'rer's heart with rapture beat. For he'd despaired of meeting Spaniards more, And cried — "At length, my savage life is o'er." PART V. The Adventures of Ponce de Leon. I. Romantic and chivalrous sons of Spain Delighted in adventures on the main. And none of all the best and worst of these More loved to range the islands and the seas. Than Ponce de Leon, who, with storied name, Passed through a long knight-errantry to fame. 88 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. In Moorish wars inured, at first, to arms, A warrior's life to him was full of charms, And in Granada many a tilt had he Ere he embarked his fortunes on the sea. The second time Columbus sought the west He bore him out a rover on its breast,* And when Ovando ravaged Hayti's isle, — And o'er his work of slaughter seemed to smile, — Don Ponce de Leon — foremost in the fray — For gold, and glory, battled day by day, — As quick to fight as he was prone to pray, — And cried — " 'T is holy, infidels to slay ! " When Peace, o'er War at last regained its sway He looked around for wdld adventures, new. And Porto Rico's island met his view. From Hayti 't was but forty miles away. And on its lofty mountains green, and gray, He saw the sun — in light, and shadow — play. From native tongues he learned that gold was there, And begged Ovando he might there repair. He landed on its deeply wooded shore. And o'er him saw the scarlet heron soar. And gathered in the streamlets shining ore, And learned that far away were golden mines. The sycamore, and cedar, clad with vines. Grew grandly with the ceiba, and the palm. While willows waved, and blossoms shed their balm, And through the groves the cardinals were heard. And tropeos, and many a mocking-bird ; And fields of yuca, interspersed with maize, Looked golden in the sun's effulgent rays. * Ponce de Leon accompanied Columbus on his second voyage in 1493, and was made lieutenant-governor of the Prov- ince of Higuey, in Hayti, by Ovando, after its subjugation. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 89 To friendly speech the natives coined their breath, Nor saw in him the harbinger of death ; And gifts the chief in rich profusion gave, Nor knew how near the stranger brought the grave. For Hayti's Isle he spread his vessel's sail. And told Ovando his attractive tale, Who Porto Rico's conquest then designed. And boundless riches there aspired to find : But ere for this he found the martial means His thoughts were swiftly turned to other scenes. Don Diego came to govern in his stead. And back to Spain the fierce Ovando sped. And pi-aised his friend De Leon to the Crown, And told how great, for prowess, his renown. Whereon the King, admiring all he'd done, Said — " For himself the island's rule he's won," And sent him word to govern there for Spain, Nor should Don Diego e'er dispute his reign. "Behold my rights invaded," Diego cried, " Though I, in Spain, so long for justice tried ! " II. A bloodless triumph Ponce de Leon gained, For Porto Rico peaceful still remained, Though, with his forces, he was ruling there ; Yet storm impended while the sky was fair. Oppression roused to wrath the native breast. " The Spaniard," said the chief, " is but a guest; Yet like a master he to rule us aims, And — mark me — I repudiate his claims. Is he — my people — an immortal man, Or is his lifetime measured by a span ? If mortal, we can take him by surprise, And spear him, and assail him, till he dies ; 90 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. But if he's everlasting, woe to all, The honey of our lives is turned to gall. To test his immortality we'll seek, And if he dies, then, vengeance we shall wreak ! " A Spaniard slain the mortal story told, By which the savage heart was rendered bold, And all the chiefs and native hosts combined To execute the fatal work designed. At night the warriors met in painted throngs. And sang — in groves — areytos — battle-songs. And danced the war-dance round their fagot fires. And blew their shells, and twanged their native lyres. A Spaniard, hearing, joined them, painted too. And seemed himself an Indian to the view, And, from their language, and suggestive signs, Their plot divined, and all their foul designs. With speed he warned his comrades quartered near, Who marvelled much of such a plot to hear, And scarce believed that all they heard was true. Don Christoval * howe'er distrustful grew. For he a chieftain's daughter there had won. And she had warned him massacre to shun, But he from fondness deemed her fears arose, And not till now believed her kinsmen foes. He hastened to Caparra far awa}'. Where Ponce de Leon with his army lay, But slain was he — with comrades — on the way, While all the towns by Spaniards built were razed, And fires upon the mountain summits blazed. All saving those who to Caparra fled Were left by the avenging warriors dead. * Don Christoval de Sotomayor, who had been for a time alcalde mayor under Juan Ponce de Leon. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 91 A hundred Spaniards perished at a blow, And from the fort no soldier dared to go : * But Ponce de Leon sent to Hayti's shore Don Diego's help in peril to implore, And forces fresh responded to the call. Then Ponce de Leon from his fortress wall Cried — " Christ, and Santiago, sally out ! The Christian's sword the Infidel will rout ! " *' Christo y Santiago ! " was the cry That oft repeated made the echoes fly, And Ponce de Leon must'ring ev'ry man. And shouting — " Adelante ! " led the van. The Indians gazed in wonder at the sight, And consternation moved their hosts to flight. Once more alive they deemed the Spaniards slain. Or why such numbers in De Leon's train ? With men immortal battling seemed in vain. By swift degrees the Spaniards trodihem down, And Ponce de Leon basked in fresh renown. The race of Red Men passed like gourds away, To all the ills invasion brought a prey — Toil, sickness, famine, cruelty, and woe — The tares the Spaniard wearied ne'er to sow : But Ponce ere long was shorn of all his sway. " Don Diego," said the King, " let all obey, For unto him that favored isle belongs. His rights must not be recognized by wrongs ; And Ponce de Leon, though he's nobly done, Must yield to him — the great explorer's son. Thus I a wrong committed now repair : " And Diego after that was ruler there. * There were in the fort, besieged, at this time, a hundred Spaniards, and a bloodhound. 92 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. III. Don Ponce de Leon dreamed of conquests new. Another world he pictured to his view, And in imagination conquered ihis, And reaped renown, and everlasting bliss. The Indians told him of a land of gold, Where none of all its people e'er grew old. And Pleasure reigned and pain had ne'er been known, And where the sun on beauty ever shone. And flowed the river of eternal youth. The eager Spaniard deemed 't was all the truth, And sought this splendid region of delight. Where hearts were glad and eyes forever bright, And only beauty met the ravished sight. Pie felt his youth, and prime, already past, And life too short for enterprises vast. But could he reach this youth-restoring stream, No longer life a fleeting thing he'd deem. Rejuvenized, and yet with all he knew, What thought could compass all he still might do ? So credulous, and fanciful was he That he embarked, for this to search the sea. His youth renew, and gather golden ore. He found his comrades eager to explore. For like him they believed the fiction true, And, in imagination, glowing grew. A fairy-land before them seemed to lie. And there in fancy all were wont to fly. Three caravels, with hope-exalted crews, Their canvas spread on this Quixotic cruise, And, northward steering, passed from isle to isle,* * This fairy-land, the Indians said, lay far north, but an island called Bimini, much nearer, was similarly endowed. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 93 All eyes in expectation strained the while. The green Bahamas one by one were passed Until they reached San Salvador at last, Where first Columbus trod the western world, And by its shores his sails — rejoicing — furled : But all in vain the pilgrims sought the land, And drank of ev'ry stream from strand to strand, And in their waters bathed with zealous zest. With youth, and riches, hoping to be blessed. Yet Ponce de Leon — hopeful none the less — Northwestward, still, his way resolved to press. And sailed till land, and palms, again were seen — A country splendid in its garb of green. Where Flora revelled in undying bloom. And from the shore was wafted sweet perfume. " This is," said he, " the paradise we seek. A monitor, I hear within me speak." 'T was on a Sabbath * in the blush of spring. When through the forest, birds were wont to sing. That, crucifix in hand, he landed there, And with his comrades knelt awhile in prayer, Then rising said — " So flow'ry are the trees, And with such fragrance freighted is the breeze, That I the region Florida baptize, And may its waters all rejuvenize." He cruised for weeks along its flow'ry coast, But met where'er he went an angry host. Nor found the promised stream, nor golden ore. Though still a garb of splendor Nature wore. " Alas ! " he cried, " that clime so fair as this * It was Palm Sunday, (Pascua Florida), March 27, 151 2, in about thirty degrees north latitude, and both from this circumstance, and tlie flowery aspect of the vegetation, Ponce de Leon named the country Florida, its Indian name being Cautio. The coast had, however, been discovered in 1498 by Sebastian Cabot. 94 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. Contains not that perennial source of bliss — The stream of beaut}^ and eternal life, For which I've longed and sought through toil, and strife. A river famous in barbaric lore — And which, if found, would bless me evermore — Might filly grace a paradise so bright. And crown with glory all that meets the sight. Oh ! Life's Elixir ! Lives there such a thing To free this body from its mortal sting ? " Before him in magnificent array The earth revealed its splendors to the day ; But vainly Flora lavished all her charms, And round him threw^ her close-embracing arms. He sighed for something more than she could yield, And in his thoughts surveyed a wider field. There the palmetto, ever graceful, grew. And spread its fan-like leaves to catch the dew ; The date-palm's plumes, majestic, waved on high, And borrowed lustre from the beaming sky ; The breeze, the feather-like acacias wooed. And birds, with music, filled the solitude ; Magnolias, with creamy blossoms gay. And glossy leaves bedecked, adorned the way ; The guava and a fruit of scarlet hue. In tempting beauty blushed upon the view ; Fantastic moss in hoary ringlets hung From cedar, oak, and cypress, while there sung The cardinal and tropeo, on high. And mocking-birds were heard both far and nigh. The fig, the lemon, and the peach displayed Their dainties in the sunlight and the shade ; The citron there exhaled its rich perfume. And roses seemed the pine-woods to illume ; The yellow chaparelle there, too, was seen, With the verbena, and the myrtle, green. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 95 While eglantine and jessamine were found In beds of blossoms, carpeting the ground. A silent river through the forest wound, Where sailed the pelican in stately pride, Where, too, the milk-white heron loved to glide, And by the reedy margin of its tide The pink crane wandered, and the thirsty deer Came down to drink ; and there the waters clear Reflected them upon its tranquil breast, While all around was eloquent of rest ; And pillowed on their velvet leaves, were spread The graceful lilies in their liquid bed. The balmy air was fragrant of the woods ; The sun bathed all the earth in golden floods; The sky was bright, and beautiful, and blue ; And when the Night its sable mantle drew Across the scene, the gleaming, fiery flies Vied with the shooting stars before the eyes; While brightly shone the placid, silver moon, As if to rival Phoebus at his noon. IV. The Seminoles the pilgrims forced to flee, And Ponce de Leon ranged again the sea, The fabled river eager still to find. And fondly to the legend's falsehood blind. Once more his barks from isle to isle careered, But all in vain : no wondrous stream appeared. Nor Bimini — the fairy isle — was seen. Don Ponce de Leon felt at last shagreen, And back to Porto Rico made his way — But grave of mien where he before was gay — Though he a comrade bade the search pursue Till that enchanted island met his view. 'T was found ere long, but not the stream of life. 96 THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. Delusive proved the stones that were rife. 'T was rich in pahris, and brooks, and crystal springs, And birds with golden breasts and scarlet wings, And all its face was picturesque, and fair, But no rejuvenizing stream was there. De Leon, stung by disappointment, sighed For other lands to conquer ere he died, But found them not, and wounded felt his pride. Awhile he languished 'mid the fragrant isles, And prayed in vain for Fortune's cheering smiles. He mourned the day he left his native clime, And uttered lamentations time on time, With deep regrets, and sad forebodings, too, For all his thoughts wore Melancholy's hue. The fountain of eternal youth no more Could fire him with the ardent hopes of yore, For bitter mem'ries round the fable hung. And he no more to hopes delusive clung. He courted in forgetfulness repose, And felt that thorns grew even with the rose. VI. Discouraged, Ponce de Leon sailed to Spain, And honors from the Sovereign sought to gain.=* Then he returned the Carib hosts to fight, But Guadaloupe his forces put to flight. And he again to Porto Rico sped. And then for years a life inactive led, * He was made adelantado of Bimini and the supposed island of Florida, and appointed to command a fleet of three ships which sailed in 1514 to destroy the Caribs, who had been making descents on Porto Rico. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 97 Till Cortez roused him from his long repose, And made him long to meet barbaric foes. Once more his eyes to Florida were turned, For, ripe for conquest, he for booty yearned, And there he, now, the continent discerned. Though but an isle he deemed the land before. With ships equipped to colonize the shore. And thoughts in realms of fancy prone to soar, He westward sailed, ambitious of renown. And eager after laurels from the Crown. With buoyant hope he trod the flow'ry coast. And — " Here I'll conquer ! " was his sanguine boast. The Seminoles, howe'er — a warlike host — Assailed with fury the invading band, And wheresoe'er they went along the strand Thick flights of poisoned arrows coursed the air, And goaded Ponce de Leon to despair. A battle fierce, and bloody, then was fought. And havoc rude on either side was wrought. He saw his soldiers in the combat slain, And " Jesu Christo ! '' cried with sudden pam As arrow-struck he — tott'ring — reached the ground. His bleeding wound his faithful comrades bound, And bore him to his waiting caravel. When to the coast he bade a long farewell, And sailed to Cuba where ere long he died With fevered body, and with humbled pride — A disappointed, broken-hearted man, Whose life was measured by the common span — - One who had hoped to cheat the tyrant Death, But who to Jesus gave his latest breath — A brave, chivalrous knight, but proud, and vain, Who loved the Cross, and next his native Spain — His early fame eclipsed by grander deeds. The garden of his life o'errun with weeds. His body poisoned by the arrow's sting. And no one near him left, his praise to sing. PART VI. The Sea the Region of Romance. I. The region of romance was now the sea, And o'er its waste of waters, vast, and free, The paths of glory, ever widening, led, And nations watched each wand'ring bark that sped, And waited long — unwearied — its return, All eager of the universe to learn — The world they saw expanding on their view. Enthusiastic, wond'ring Europe grew. II. Once more Sebastian Cabot sailed — with Pert — * Far western shores in search of wealth to skirt. They to Brazilian waters ploughed their way, And later steered to Porto Rico's bay ; But spare success their noble efforts crowned. Though in their brave example England found The good which slowly ripened into deeds. They sowed of ocean enterprise the seeds, And Britons on the sea with Spaniards vied. And Albion's commerce spread its sails awide. III. Ambitious of renown, and golden ore, Velasquez sent his ships from Cuba's shore, * Sir Sebastian Cabot, and Sir Thomas Pert, sailed from Bristol in 1516 with two ships fitted out by merchants of that town, and visited the coast of Brazil and touched at Hayti and Porto Rico. The voyage resulted in no profit to the adventur- ers,but it extended English navigation and nautical knowledge. THE DISCOVERY OF THE PACIFIC. 99 And with Cordova — Francis — in command They steered by Yucatan's inviting strand, Where erst had landed wrecked Valdivia's band ; And there he battled hard, but met defeat, And to his squadron turned in swift retreat. Then sorely wounded — back to Cuba sailed, And dying cried — " My enterprise has failed." Velasquez, then, still other ships supplied, And bade Grijalva there his forces guide. And he explored in Yucatan anew, And with remorseless arm the heathen slew ; Then Mexico, in sailing onward, eyed. And, gazing, felt a first discov'rer's pride, While 'Montezuma's fame his wonder raised. And all he heard but left him more amazed. He hastened back the tidings rare to tell. And felt his breast with aspirations sweJl. Pinedo from Jamaica's sunny isle Had sailed, and sighted Mexico, the while ; But he was forced the angry shore to flee, And seek a refuge on the open sea ; And of his ships but one escaped the land, And reached again Jamaica's palmy strand. Of Mexico, with joy, Velasquez heard. And with ambition soaring like a bird — And by the love of gold, and glory spurred — He to Hernando Cortez, turning, said — " Here go, my comrade, and the gospel spread ! Assail the heathen of this savage shore, And reap a harvest of their golden ore. There plant the Cross, and gospel truths proclaim, And put the godless infidels to shame. Nor e'er return until thy work is done. And thou the triumph I foresee hast won." BOOK THE SECOND. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. [Period 1519 to 1523]. PART FIRST. I. The chivalry of ocean found its vent In daring deeds along the continent, And glory was the Spaniard's dream of hope. For this the New World gave unrivalled scope : This — linked with gold — allured him far and wide, A bold crusader o'er the ocean's tide. He lived for gold, for glory, and the Cross, And all beside he counted only dross. In Mexico Velasquez viewed a prize Toward which he looked with keen, and wistful eyes, And to its shores his own armada planned — An armament with Cortez in command — He but alcalde of a Cuban town. Unknown to fame — a stranger to renown, Yet who was destined, soon, to win a name Which through Castile was greeted with acclaim. He well was fitted for the pilgrimage. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. loi Of middle stature and nigh middle age, * Of pale complexion, with a speaking eye, Which at a flash could flatter or defy ; In frame robust, and lithe, and strong of limb. His comrades found a leader bold in him. Inured to toil, and in privation schooled. No litter chief could o'er his camp have ruled ; In manner frank, but truly strong of will. With warlike tastes, and all a soldier's skill ; Not fond of banquets, nor yet prone to wine. But proud of rank, and — dress — its outward sign, And with a hero's yearning after fame — For deeds of glory — an undying name. Such then was Cortez, ripe for dauntless deeds, Whose motto was — audacity succeeds : But ere he sailed Velasquez grave became, And Cortez held, for actions done, to blame. And of his course, too late, repented sore. "I feel," he cried, " in Cortez faith no more. For — daring, and ambitious — he will soar. And aim to rule where he should strive to serve. Not such as he supreme command deserve." Thus deeply jealous, and distrustful, grown. He chose a new commander, tried and known, Who'd labor well, nor for himself alone, Nor dare to call the glory all his own : But Cortez from Saint Jago fled by night — Though ships and crew were found in sorry plight — And left Velasquez in a savage mood O'er thw^arted plans, and blighted hopes, to brood, t * Hernando Cortez, according to Gomara, was born at Ned- ellin, in Estramadura, in 1485, and was therefore between thirty-three and thirty-four years old when, in 1519, he first landed in Mexico. t Cortez sailed, clandestinely, early on the morning of No- vember 18, 1 518, from St. Jago, Cuba, with an ill-provided fleet, 102 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. A fav'ring breeze the squadron seaward bore, But ere receded far the island's shore Velasquez — from his slumbers roused — appeared, And, on the beach, the sailing vessels neared, And cried to Cortez loudly — " Come to me, Nor dare in ships of mine to put to sea ! " And in the moonlight wildly waved his hands, And, with excited motions, trod the sands : But Cortez left Velasquez raving there, And saints, and Virgin, thanked for wind so fair. In flight alone, he knew, his safety lay. " 'T would fatal be," he murmured, "to obe3\ Whate'er I have of wordly wealth is here, for the port of Macaca, fifteen leagues' distant, where he ob- tained supplies and additional volunteers. Thence he sailed to Trinidad, a larger town on the southern coast of Cuba, and secured fresh supplies and reinforcements, Cristoval de Olid, Alonso de Avila, Juan Velasquez de Leon, and Gonzalo de Sandoval, afterward conspicuous in the Conquest, among the number. His fleet afterwards proceeded to Havana with the same objects in view. Before he left St. Jago, however, Velasquez, the governor of the island, having repented of ap- pointing him to the command of the expedition, in vain tried to arrest his departure and subsequent progress. On the loth of Februar}', 1518, the squadron, consisting of eleven sail, var}^- ing in size from open brigantines to vessels of seventy, eighty, and a hundred tons burden, steered for Cape St. Antonio. Landing there, Cortez delivered a stirring address to his fol- lowers, and placing his fleet under the protection of St. Peter, his patron saint, sailed on the iSth of February, 1519, for the coast of Yucatan. His forces at the time numbered one hun- dred and ten sailors, and five hundred and fifty-three soldiers, thirty-two of whom were cross-bowmen, and thirteen arque- busiers. In addition there were two hundred Cuban Indians, a few of whom were women, designed to perform menial labor. The expedition carried ten heavy guns, four brass falconets, an abundant supply of ammunition, and sixteen horses, the latter of inestimable value. The expenses of the squadron prior to its departure from St. Jago were borne by Velasquez and Cortez, who invested all the moderate means at his command in the purchase of ships and supplies. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 103 And death ashore, if I return, I fear." Saint Jago vanished slowly from the view, And Cortez found his comrades stanch, and true. From port to port he sailed along the coast, Increasing as he went his motley host — A reckless band, crusaders in their type, But all for war, and wild adventure, ripe-, And brigantines were added to the fleet. While Cortez vowed he'd ne'er endure defeat. Ten fragile barks, beside his own, had he — And o'er six hundred sons of chivalry — With which to launch his fortunes on the sea. Velasquez strove to seize him as he sailed, But all he did to thwart, or capture, failed. Supplied, and manned, from Cuba sped the ships — Each Spaniard with a prayer upon his lips — And steered for Yucatan's inviting shore. " Adieu ! " said Cortez, " Cuba evermore ! " II. Thus led by greed of conquest, and of gain, From Cuba's isle he wooed the open main. The daring hero, bent on bold emprise, Sailed full of hope, ambition, enterprise. With lust of wealth, and battle, in his eyes, But thus he spoke ere land was left behind, The closer to himself his men to bind : — "Within your reach a prize not all of gold. But gold and glory — Comrades — now behold ! Ere long ye'll be the favored sons of Fame Who'll trumpet to the world each soldier's name. If strong in faith ye bravely fight for Right With Sword, and Cross, against the pagan's might ; And God against barbaric foes will shield All ye who meet them on the battle-field ; I04 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And riches yours — whate'er ye crave — shall be, And Spain will give ye welcome from the sea. Extend ye, then, her sway o'er regions new, And to yourselves, and me, be ever true ! " Then Mass was said ; Saint Peter's aid was prayed, And 'neath the Saint's protection all was laid. Ere long a storm assailed his speeding fleet. When from the blast he turned in swift retreat, And in Cozumel's island found repose, Though there awhile beset by Indian foes. 'T was then he heard from Yucatan the news That on its coast had landed shipwrecked crews Which made him seek them with exploring zeal, Both for their own, and for their country's weal. 'T was there the meek Jeronimo appeared. When from his captors he so gladly steered, In whom he found a servant, and a friend — One whose interpretations served an end That of itself to conquest paved the way. And built on Aztec ruins Spanish sway.* " Jeronimo," said Cortez — " yet once more Come spread the gospel on a heathen shore." III. Along the sunny shore of Yucatan Intrepid Cortez led the Spanish van. And there he landed, fearless of his fate, With music, banners, and the signs of state.* The hills, and valleys bloom, and verdure, wore, * Jeronimo de Aguilar served as interpreter and ambassa- dor to Cortez in Mexico until the final conquest of the coun- try, when he was appointed regidor of the city of Mexico as a reward for the valuable services he had rendered. * Cortez landed at the river of Tobasco on the 13th of March, 1519. THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO. i o 5 And earth her fruits through all the seasons bore. The wand'rers gazed in unrestrained delight, And felt a charm in all that met the sight. But warlike throngs assailed them where they stood, Then vanished in the deep primeval wood, And Cortez called his troops at once to arms, Who dwelt no longer on the prospect's charms. Canoes were marshalled on Tobasco's stream. Which seemed wilh hostile multitudes to teem, And there in force the Spaniards found their way On foot, in boats, and mounted for the fray. " Saint Jago ! Christo ! " Cortez loudly cried, And native blood the flowing river dyed. Then 'dusky legions fought with might and main, And grappled wildly with the boats of Spain, And Spaniard after Spaniard there was slain, While mother earth drank human blood like rain. Both Infidel, and Christian, dyed the sod, And Spanish lips were moved in prayer to God. The Indian arrows bird-like — whizzing — flew, And Spanish arms by thousands foemen slew^ Their strength with guns the arrows tried in vain, And when at length, the horsemen reached the plain, And charged the foe in battle's stern array The native squadrons fled — pursued — away. For man and horse seemed monstrous to their eyes. And roused alike their terror, and surprise. Believing both to one existence wed They felt — nor strangely — overwhelming dread. For ne'er the horse had met "their view before. Nor e'er, till then, they'd heard the cannon's roar. They left the Spaniards victors in the fight. And all Tobasco subject to their might. Next morn, in cotton garments darkly clad Caziques approached, submissive, meek, ai and sad. io6 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And prayed the boon of taking thence their dead. O'er these a solemn Mass the Spaniards said When they — the chiefs — had kissed the cross di- vine, And of allegiance made a fitting sign : And with them twenty blooming maids they brought, As gifts to those they'd erst so bravely fought. Nor such as these the Spaniards failed to win, For they were prone to sentiment and sin ; But sighs, and tears, from breaking hearts escaped As there they stood like statues all undraped. Ere from their native land they turned to go Where'er the winds the Spanish fleet might blow. Down by the river where the mangroves grew. Its ample shade a lordly ceiba threw. And here his sword Hernando Cortez drew. And with it thrice its mammoth trunk he smote, And thus the legend of his conquest wrote — A conquest that was fast and far to spread. And fill an empire with appalling dread. IV. Not long the daring victors lingered here. But re-embarked, their course again to steer Toward Mexico, whose shore was blooming near ; And soon San Juan's island met their view — * Like some bright vision — in a sea of blue. There Cortez landed in ■triumphant mood, His mind with conquest, and with prayer, imbued. Before him rose an empire vast, and great, Whose oracles had long foretold its fate — * The island of San Juan de Uloa nearly opposite the mod- ern Vera Cruz. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 107 A pagan people, civilized withal, Predestined by Invasion's blight to fall. Where this dark Egypt of the New World lay He saw bright promise of a new Cathay. Macaws, and parrots, screamed among the trees, And fragrant of the forest was the breeze ; The dusky buzzards flew in search of prey. The monkeys climbed, and gambolled, all the day ; The luscious cherimoya pear-like hung, And to the locust, passion-flowers clung ; The yellow cedar shed its sweet perfume, And oleanders stood arrayed in bloom. Ananas', rich in scent, and gold and green, With welcome fruit adorned the sylvan scene, And beards of moss festooned the lofty pines, While scarlet blossoms beautified the vines. The squadron by the isle at anchor lay Within the shelter of a bending bay. And high the mainland backed the splendid view Beneath a beaming sky of azure hue. From which canoes, with tawny paddlers, came Attracted by the white invaders' fame. The wond'ring natives brought them fruit and gold. And of their countr}', and its marvels, told. And Cortez gave them trinkets in return. And tried from these whate'er he could to learn. Jeronimo was versed in Mayan lore,* And knew the language of the Mayan shore, But Aztec strove to comprehend in vain, And Cortez viewed his ignorance with pain. 'T was then he saw a houri on the deck *That part of Yucatan where Jeronimo was wrecked was called Maya. io8 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Fall weeping on a greeting Aztec's neck, And utter words all Aztec like his own, And claim him one her early youth had known Ere bitter griefs her tender heart had wrung. Yet she, like him — her kinsman — still was young. From Mexico, and home, she'd erst been torn In Yucatan — a captive child — to mourn. Ere this her father — scarce remembered — died. Whose relict, then, became another's bride, And bore a son for whom her fondness grew, While ne'er for her — her daughter — love she knew. She stole for him the wealth designed for her. And av'rice proved to crime the ready spur. In secret she was sent from home away, And sold to traders one eventful day. While in her stead her parent placed a corse, And feigned distress, nor o'er it felt remorse, And called the lifeless form her daughter dead. The child was soon to far Tobasco led. And by the traders sold for lucre there. A budding beauty she was, fresh, and fair With winning eyes, and lustrous raven hair. And fairy form, and winsomeness of face. And movements witching in their artless grace. She fascinated Cortez by her charms. And wished success, and glory, to his arms. He felt that here indeed he held a prize. And on her features cast admiring eyes, And deemed she'd prove, whate'er betided, true. She spoke the Aztec, and the Mayan, too. And eager seemed an active part to play, And, as his own interpreter, obey. While in the priest Jeronimo of Spain Was one to whom the Mayan tongue was plain. Through strange adventures thus the maid had passed THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 109 To reach again her native land at last. Thenceforth Marina — so by Cortez named — The Spaniards served, and lived both loved and famed. When to the neighb'ring coast the squadron sailed, With plenty there the troops were all regaled ; And there they camped 'tween sea, and mountain- land — Out on a level plain with hills of sand, And all around them picturesque, and grand. Before them nightly flashed the gleaming flies — Like fiery phantoms — dazzling to their eyes. While humming-birds, and butterflies by day, With gaudy flashes, made the prospect gay. There sang the tropeo his joyous lay. And piped the oriole his roundelay. While sky and ocean blended far away. Ere long they called their camping-ground a town, The Vera Cruz that since has won reoown. The natives marvelled more than e'er before. And daily thronged to see them on the shore. While from their sov'reign gifts, and greetings, came, By noble envoys known to Aztec fame. Great Montezuma in his native vale Had heard with wonder of these wand'rers pale, These bearded strangers from a land unknown. Whose ships by winds o'er ocean's breast were blown. And, half in fear, their friendship sought to gain, Yet begged them soon again to sail the main, For from Tobasco tidings grave had he Of these intrepid rovers of the sea. no THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Time fled, and there the Spaniards lingered still Though much against proud Montezuma's will. Yet gifts again by noble hands he sent With kindly words of Aztec compliment, For he to win them o'er from wrath was bent, But prayed they'd soon be gone, the daring band. Nor venture more to spy the Aztec land, And desecrate the soil oe'r which he reigned — A soil till now by strangers unprofaned. No nearer they to where he dwelt could draw, Nor linger longer, by his country's law. The wily Cortez heard the envoys through. And then replied " Believe my friendship true, Nor e'er my advent here you'll live to rue ; But I would fain a realm so wondrous view, And to your sovereign pav the rev'rence due. A monarch truly great, I hear, is he. And gladly I'd his court and person, see. So, with the help of God, I'll onward press, And trust that He the enterprise will bless." Then all the Spaniards to the tolling bell On bended knees in deep devotion fell. Before the Cross they asked Almighty aid. To execute the plans their chief had made, To give them strength, and weaken all their foes, And leave them at the mercy of their blows. Faint on the air their supplications rose. The envoys looked in wonder on the scene With placid but a strange inquiring mien. Then priests, and Cortez, told by word and sign, The story of the Christian faith, divine. And deeper still barbaric wonder grew Ere to the camp the envoys bade adieu.- Still later chiefs from Cempoalla came Attracted by the pale invaders' fame, THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. ir And told how they were Aztecs but by name, A tribe subdued by Montezuma's hosts, Which overran their valleys, and their coasts. Totonacs, they were rich in ancient lore, And sighed for independence as of yore. "Our lord at Cempoalla dwells," said they, " And fain would see you thither take your way, Where gardens blush with roses all the day. And orchard-trees with fruit, and bloom, are gay." VI. Time p-assed away, and Cortez lingered still Though much against the Aztec monarch's will ; But o'er his fortunes oft the leader sighed, For he his ranks contention saw divide. In insubordination troops arose, And, erst his friends, became his open foes. The cry was — " Back to Cuba we'll repair. For well may we of conquest here despair," But Cortez said — " The enterprise is grand ; Why leave behind so rich, and fair, a land With riches — mark me ! Comrades — close at hand ? With trust in God, and courage, strong are we. Why back to Cuba, then, despairing, flee ? Dispel your fears, and bravely follow me ! " Their courage rose, their clamors died away, And all resolved in Mexico to stay. They laid their plans to colonize the shore, And faith in Cortez as their captain swore. And Villa Rica * where they camped they named, And all the region for their monarch claimed. Ere long howe'er a fairer spot they chose * The full name was Villa Rica de Vera Cruz — the Wealthy Town of the True Cross, 112 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Where they the camp could screen from native foes, And where the ships would find a slieltered bay, And all the beach was like a sandy quay : So to the north careered the Spanish fleet From winds, and waves, to seek the calm retreat, While Cortez with his men — a martial host — Marched full in view along the shelving coast Where Orizaba in the distance rose, Its summit hoary with eternal snows. With mountains massed — a rugged chain — below, Bathed in the shining sun's resplendent glow. O'er dreary plains for miles the army toiled. And time on time from grim remains recoiled, Where men had erst in sacrifice been slain Within the portals of some Aztec fane. The Spaniards gazed— astounded— on the sight. And vowed to shed the gospel's holy hght This deep, barbaric darkness to dispel. And of a purer faith— the Christian's — tell. But from a sandy waste to living green Ere long, by Cempoalla, changed the scene. The country, far and near, was grand to view, And all the sky a bright, and mottled, blue, Its sweeping sides the Andes baring still, _ While nearer — seaward — hill succeeded hill. All clothed with vegetation flecked with bloom, Which on the balmy air exhaled perfume. Each glance disclosed new beauties to the eye Down from the peaks that pierced the azure sky To where the spreading sea, with glitt'ring breast. Lay — type of God's immensity — at rest. Here Nature's face was wondrous fair and bright, And of itself existence seemed delight. With light festoons the stately trees were gay, And these with ev'ry breeze were prone to play. While Flora painted earth with colors gay, THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO. 1 1 3 And purple grapes were clustered on the vines — Which wove on high their intersecting lines — And honeysuckles clambered up the pines. The prickly aloe, and the rose, were twined With vegetation of a kindred kind, A rich, and tropic, undergrowth around, And fadeless green to beautify the ground. In herds the timid deer were seen to run, And parrots flashed, while flying, in the sun. Sweet warbling notes by mocking-birds were trilled. Whose woodland songs the gorgeous forest filled, And cardinals, with scarlet plumage bright, Made vocal sounds from early morn till night. The cocoa-palms were bending with their fruit, And tall bamboos returned their proud salute, While turkeys, wild,* and pheasants, sought their shade, Or basked, and chattered, in the leafy glade, And stately Cottonwood, and almond-trees Soft whispers uttered in the idle breeze, Cacaos f with their red and golden pods — Rich theobromas bearing food for gods — And, with their snowy blossoms, thickly flecked, Rose in the shade, with purple leaves bedecked, While, tall and straight, organos tapered there, And on the hillsides bloomed the prickly pear. The cotton-plant its bursting bolls revealed, And golden maize adorned the open field. While fell tobacco's large and lustrous leaf — Whose fumes imparted solace, and relief. Long ere the conquest, to the Aztec race — Disclosed its vivid green with bending grace. * The turkey was first introduced into Europe from Mexico. t Chocolate-trees. Pronounce Ka-ka'os. 114 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. With long, coarse leaves the juicy maguey grew, A plant from which the natives nectar drew, Whose sap — fermented — into pulque turned, And few were they who ne'er for this had yearned, For in the cup intoxication lurked, And, through the brain a strange enchantment worked.* 'Twas to the Aztecs an exciting wine, And in the aloe they beheld their vine, While now, as then, the fluid freely flows, Where in Mexico the aloe grows. It spreads its poison o'er the hapless clime, And stimulates to vice, and deeds of crime. VII. The town of Cempoalla met the sight. Its temples, and its dwelUng-places white. Of sun-dried brick, and sandy stone were they, And thatched with palm-leaves, bleached to sober gray. Young maidens came to greet the Spaniards there. And with their songs of welcome filled the air, And on their leader's helmet chaplets hung. And in their native tongue his praises sung. They lavished roses on his charger, too. And floral favors to the soldiers threw. While picturesque, and fair, were they to view. They, like their swains, in cotton robes were clad. *The sap of the maguey, or great aloe, was gathered by cutting off the centre shoot of the plant, in the hollow of which it formed a basin, holding about a pint. This filled two or three times a day, and was drawn off by mouth suction, through a reed, and after being discharged into a skin, or other vessel, was allowed to ferment, when it became pulque. The custom still prevails. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 115 And seemed, to meet the mailed invaders, glad. In ears and nostrils, rings of gold they wore, Which all could see were made of golden ore. On these the Spaniards cast their eager eyes, And in each jewelled maid beheld a prize. They marvelled much a cultured race to find. And deemed for this they'd been by God designed. Through Cempoalla's narrow streets they passed When from their trumpets rang a martial blast. The chieftain met them as became a brave With friendly motives, but with features grave. And entertained with native fare the troops, Who broke from solid columns into groups. Their captain to the native leader turned. And from his lips the nation's story learned. He told how weak was Montezuma's sway. And how he longed to see it swept away, A feeling o'er the country thousands shared. Though none their discontent to whisper dared. Here Cortez found to great success the key, And murmured " Jesus ! help I ask of Thee ! Let Montezuma's foes in strength arise. And strive the Spanish arms to aggrandize That we may thus the land evangelize. Though yet we've scarce the noble work begun. By Grace divine the prize will soon be won. Against itself divided what can stand.? I trust, O Lord ! to Thy protecting hand ! " VIII. Four leagues from Cempoalla northward lay The chosen spot, and deep but sheltered, bay. So Cortez onward soon resumed his way, While Cempoalla's braves his burdens bore ii6 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. To where the ships were anchored off the shore. There Cempoalla's lord was borne in state With all the pomp environing the great, And while he lingered with the Spaniards there Within a native market-place or square, They saw approach them men of high degree, Who said — "We come Totonac's chief to see." Then when they reached his palanquin they bowed But with the air of equals — great, and proud — And spoke in tones of censure, and command — "Why treat you thus the strangers in the land When Montezuma bids them leave the strand ? We twenty men, and maids, for this demand, And these ere long — a sacrifice — shall die ! Henceforth to Spaniards all relief deny ! " The chief prepared the mandate to obey. But Cortez, when he heard it, bade him stay, And seize the nobles ere they went away. And this, though with reluctance, soon was done. On these as captives sank, that day, the sun. But, ere the night succeeding quite had flown, Hernando sought these envoys from the throne. And o'er their plight distress was quick to feign. And said — " I'll see your freedom you regain. Go tell your monarch he's a friend in me. And that, ere long, I hope his face to see, For which I've journeyed far across the sea. Totonac's braves would slay you where you lie, But from their wrath, in secret, you shall fly. The time has come for hasty flight. — Good-bye 1 " Thus Cortez sought their monarch's smiles to win. And on Totonac throw the weight of sin. Against her Montezuma's ire he'd raise. And both in turn, to serve his purpose, praise, For with Totonac, and the monarch, foes, He saw his way to strike triumphant blows. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 117 The morrow found Totonac wrapped in gloom, Her people apprehensive of their doom, For Montezuma's wrath was feared by all. "No harm on you," said Cortez, "here shall fall. Embrace the Cross ; allegiance own to Spain, And Montezuma's rage shall, then, be vain." With one accord Totonacs bowed the knee. And sought in these invaders from the sea A shield from Montezuma's scourging hand. Thus rent in twain the Spaniards saw the land. The while his nobles toward the monarch sped As from Totonac — halting ne'er — they fled — With. glances backward, still pursued by Fear, a And told their tale in Montezuma's ear. With anger flashed his black, and lustrous eyes, And all his features spoke his great surprise. But fear amid his indignation rose. And, timid still, a peaceful part he chose. Once more he sent ambassadors in state On Cortez, and his warlike band to wait. And bid them on his shores no more delay, Nor hesitate his mandate to obey, And as a golden bribe, in peace, to go — For friendship toward them still he aimed to show — He sent them other presents, rich, and rare, Which only laid his wealth, and weakness, bare. And made the Spaniards as they eyed them swear They'd march ere long to conquest, or would die Beneath the splendors of that glowing sky. To Cempoalla's lord the monarch sent A message grave, and solemn in intent, With threats, and warnings for his guilty course — His blind adherence to a hostile force. But ill Totonac's troubled chief could bow To aught beside the fierce invaders now. ii8 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Disposed to please, eight damsels he bestowed On those who — in command — with Cortez rode. All chieftains' daughters, richly clad were they, With female slaves to fan them as they lay. " But these," said Cortez, " Spaniards ne'er can wed Till to the Christian altar they've been led. And been, with water, there baptized, and named, And, in the faith, with solemn pomp proclaimed; Nor yet till all your gods are overthrown. And in their stead the Cross your priests enthrone, And till your shrines are, with your idols, waste, And by the Virgin and the Child replaced ! " " baptize, and name," Totonac's chief replied, " But in our temples let our gods abide. The Cross, with these, we'll worship day by day, And, like yourselves, before your emblem pray." The Spaniards felt the spur of Christian zeal. And gave the cry of " Jesus, and Castile ! " And marched to Cempoalla's grandest fane. And called on Christ to bless the cause of Spain, Then moving forward tore the idols down. And cried aloud — " Huzzah ! for Cross, and Crown ! " To arms Totonac's chieftain called the town. And sudden sounds of tumult filled the air. The priests — Totonacs — wailed, and tore their hair. And uttered frantic protests all in vain. The fiery Spaniards met them with disdain. Then Cortez captive made the great cazique, And bade him words to calm his warriors speak. Exclaiming — "If Totonac strikes a blow Your blood in expiation here shall flow. Remember Montezuma is your foe. And if you forfeit Spain's protection, lo ! Your land will know the bitterness of woe ! " "The gods," he cried, with anguish in his face. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 119 " Will soon avenge their horrible disgrace," And then lie mourned o'er all his people's loss. No blow was struck. The Spaniards raised the Cross, And where Totonac's idols erst had been The Virgin Mary and the Child were seen. A long procession, bearing lights, was formed, And Mass the priest — Olmedo — there performed, When Cortez set the captive chieftain free, And cried — " Triumphant thus we'll ever be ! " The people deemed their gods were weak indeed When strangers thus could break them like a reed. And of the Spaniards greater grew their fear. "A Christian shrine I leave," said Cortez, " here. And pray you'll learn its teachings to revere. You'll find in me — Totonacs all — a friend. Who'll fight your rights, and dwellings, to defend If ye but prove to all your pledges true," And, then, to Cempoalla bade adieu. The Bible, and the sword, went hand in hand Where'er the stern invaders trod the land. *Fast Villa Rica, labor-planted, grew. And in its midst a chapel met the view. It formed the centre of a fruitful plain Where summer seemed eternally to reign. And walls, and ramparts, all around it rose To bid defiance to aggressive foes. There native thousands toiled from day to day — The while submissive to the Spaniard's sway — And looked on Montezuma as their bane, And welcomed in their midst invasion's reign. They gladly saw beneath their native sky *The spot selected for the future town of Villa Rica de Vera Cruz is called Quiabislau by Solis and Robertson, and Chiahuitztla by Prescott. I20 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. The city's walls, and turrets, rising high. And hoped therein protection long to find From all who ill to them and theirs designed, Ne'er thinking it a harbinger of woe, And that one arm would crush both friend and foe, With all their ancient glory trampled low. " 'T is time," said Cortez, " now to write to Spain, The Crown's approval of my acts to gain, For well I know Velasquez is my foe, Who'll strive where'er he can, to drag me low, And fain would consummate my overthrow. I'll all the tidings glad my sovereign tell, And show Tve served my native country well.* I'll send him all the treasure that I've stored — Yes all my own, and comrades', glitt'ring hoard, — And not his meed — the royal fifth — alone, For this would scarce add lustre to the throne, Or well befit an enterprise so grand. Let Spain behold the riches of the land ! Velasquez, then, will strive to thwart in vain, For in the hearts of Spaniards I shall reign ! " Each man of all his soldiers gave his share When Cortez said — "Awhile from wealth forbear That we may reap, as heroes, great renown, And win unfading laurels from the Crown." The wealth they'd won they yielded for applause — To glorify their enterprising cause — And labored on with self-denying zeal, Their motto — "Gold, and glory, and Castile !" Ere long the ship they freighted passed from view, And Cortez cried with eyes bedewed — " Adieu ! " * In allusion to the first letter of Cortez. which was undoubt- edly written, but cannot be found. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 121 Four Aztec braves had joined her Spanish crew, And welcome gave each seaward wind that blew. No dread of leaving home, and kin, had they. But eager felt to wend their wat'ry way, Athirst to see the wonders of the world. Ere long in Spain they saw her canvas furled. IX. Some still there were who o'er their lot repined And crafty flight from Aztec shores designed, But Cortez foiled them ere they left the shore, When some were maimed and some were seen no more. "The day," said he, "for cowards' plots is o'er. For mark me close to all escape the door. By stratagem I'll sink my floating fleet, And those who can may then, by sea, retreat." Cut off were they — his comrades — at a blow, And down their features tears were seen to flow When first the startling tidings reached their ears, And kindled in their breasts appalling fears, While indignation mingled with their woe. How now to home, and country, could they go With ne'er a caravel to seaward sail ? How now could they to reap disaster fail ? Their murmurs, discontent, and grief, were great, And all on Cortez vented rage, and hate. The stoutest hearts before the prospect quailed, And with dismay their dismal lot bewailed. His danger Cortez knew, but calmly stood. And tried to soothe the anger in their blood, And win them by Persuasion's gentle art, Afraid, as yet, to play a bolder part. "The ships destroyed are mine," said he, "alone. And these unfit to sail the sea had grown. 122 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. While by their loss a hundred men we gain — Who've — guarding these — been stationed by the main — To join us here, and swell our marching train. 1 o look for succor e'er from ships how vain When far behind we've left the murm'ring sea. Let all resolve from foemen ne'er to flee ! To contemplate escape would woo defeat, And cowards only deem that flight is sweet." His arguments impressed his hearers well. And made their breasts with rising courage swell. Resentment fast, like morning vapor, fled When, sun-like, Hope its cheering radiance shed. And few were they who, then, denied him wise. Though keen regrets expressed themselves in sighs. *' My firm resolve," said Cortez, to his band, " Is here to die, or conquer all the land. Our hearts with hopes delusive ships would buoy, And so, a spirit whispered 'These destroy; ' No refuge ours if we defeated be, But conquest waits on all who follow me ! " His comrades, warming, cried " To Mexico ! — To Mexico — with willing hearts — we'll go ! " PART SECOND. I. From Villa Rica's walls the march began With Cortez, gayly mounted, in the van. Four hundred Spaniards, and a group of steeds- With food, and powder, to supply their needs, And loaded guns, and music in the air. And on the lips of each a whispered prayer — • THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 123 Composed the martial host that moved away — A glitt'ring line — one sunny August day.* Their comrades left behind to guard the town Cried "On ye ne'er may Fortune cast a frown," And valiant Escalante, in command, Said — " Here till glory crowns our work I'll stand!" The troops at Cempoalla paused for rest, And once again with garlands these were dressed By maiden hands, ambitious but to please. While roses gave their fragrance to the breeze. But tidings came that ships werehov'ring near, And Cortez of Velasquez felt in fear. To Villa Rica's beach he hastened back Prepared to welcome friends, or foes attack, And saw the squadron sailing by the shore, But these no evil sign about them bore. And to the strand a boat with Spaniards came Who told they'd gold, and glory, for their aim. And from Jamaica's isle had ploughed their way — Commissioned to explore, by Don Garay — t And Cortez, and his comrades, warned away. But he the boat, and Spaniards, captive made, And plans to capture all the squadron laid. When those on board perceiving peril nigh Bade Vera Cruz, ere fell the night, good-bye. Then back to Cempoalla Cortez rode. While in his eyes his burning ardor glowed, *The horses referred to numbered fifteen and the fiekl- pieces seven. t Francisco de Garay, governor of Jamaica, who had equipped four vessels at his own expense to make discov- eries, Spain having previously given him authority over any new lands he might discover. 124 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And Sandoval, and Alvarado, * cried — " We welcome thee compatriot, and guide ! " The morning showed the march again begun^ And arms, and armor, glistened in the sun, While Cempoalla's sons advanced in line — Two thousand strong — the whole a pageant fine.f " On ! " Cortez cried, with pleasure in his glance, And waving in the air a Spanish lance, " On ! comrades, on ! to Mexico we go, And soon we'll leave the tropic plain below, And cross the heights that yonder court the sky, With hearts courageous, and our trust on High. We march beneath the Saviour's guiding eye. And wheresoe'er we meet with heathen foes We'll — God assisted — strike triumphant blows. The ancient Romans great achievements wrought. And battles oft victoriously fought. But greater deeds than ancient Rome could boast Will shed their lustre on our Christian host. We'll fight for gold, for glory, and the Cross, And all our gain will prove but Satan's loss ! No refuge save our arms, and Christ, have we, But one continued triumph I can see. On ! on ! my comrades, on ! to Victory ! " " We'll all obey ! " with one accord they cried, " And conquest's ours with Jesus on our side. We'll follow on where'er you choose to lead. The Christian's arms must — God sustained — suc- ceed ! ■" Here in a land of beauty flashed their steel, * The two officers whom he had left in command of the troops at Cempoalla. t The march from Cempoalla toward the City of Mexico began on August i6, 1519, and 1,300 Indian warriors, and 1,000 tatnanes, or porters, to drag the guns, and carry the bag- gage, accompanied the little army led by Cortez. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 12 Where the vanilla, and the cochineal Were native to the clime, and flowers bloomed The seasons through, and all the air perfumed ; Where fruits in one unbroken circle grew, And, gay with scarlet plumes, flamingoes fiew ; Where insects with enamelled wings were seen That flashed like diamonds on the sunlit scene. Here, climbing up the mountains' sweeping slope, Their hearts were light with rapture-kindling hope, And when Xalapa's city met their gaze They murmured to their Maker words of praise. And looked upon the paradise below With eyes that seemed with ardor keen to glow. Its silver streams, its woods, and meadows green, All warmly bathed in bright Apollo's sheen, With here and there a village like a gem Set, clear and sparkling, in a diadem. While on the far horizon, lo ! a line Told of eternal ocean's restless brine Beyond which home, and kindred, distant lay. Who'd see them e'er again? Ah, who could say? Above, there swelled the grand, and steep ascent O'er which the army's rugged way was bent. Far on the right Sierra Madre rose — Its summit whitened by a wreath of snows — Girt with a belt of low, and sombre, pines, And dusky hills i-n long uneven lines, While in the south, alone and far away, The mighty Orizaba, dark, and gray, In grandeur rose — a thing sublime — on high, And like a giant spectre pierced the sky. II. Still up the mountain slope the army wound — And food for thought where'er they ventured found — 126 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. In battle order massed by night and day, And ever prone, by night and day, to pray; Alert to danger, watchful of surprise. And looking forward with expectant eyes. The more they climbed the more the climate changed, And through a region bleak, and wild, they ranged. From mountain heights there blew a chilly blast. Hail, sleet, and rain, descended on them fast, And Cempoalla's children stood aghast. And one by one beneath their burdens died, While vainly all for sultry valleys sighed, And supplicated oft, in prayer, for aid. There earth and sky alike were cast in shade. The rich banana's dark and glossy leaf No longer gave the wearied eye relief. But still the golden maize its harvest spread — Kind Mother Nature's sweet unfailing bread — And fields, and hedges, of the cactus grew, And great organums, tow'ring proudly, too, While aloes, huge, with stems of vivid green, And golden bloom, in clusters graced the scene. And yuca plants, and native pepper-trees — The ^gis of the Aztec — spiced the breeze. Through towns, and hamlets, on the Spaniards pressed — And on their journey seldom paused for rest — Exciting wonder through the country round, And consternation by the trumpet's sound. Their arms, and dress, their prancing steeds and dogs. Their bearded faces, and their Spanish hogs, Made Aztecs marvel, as at something weird, For ne'er before had men like these appeared, And native eyes saw e'en in such as swine Mysterious things with attributes divine. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 127 III. While far before it spread its flying fame To Tlascala the marching army came. There Cortez said to Cempoalla braves, "Go tell the chiefs that here my banner waves, And I would fain their land adventure o'er,'' But tidings ne'er to Cortez back they bore. For they were captured, and condemned as spies By those they'd rashly ventured to apprise. Know ye for war that Tlascala was famed. And independence long ere this proclaimed Of Montezuma's empire, and alone — A fierce republic — still it held its own. It now prepared, believing Spaniards foes, To strike them down with overwhelming blows. So loudly blew each chief his warning shell,* And on the bold invaders armies fell In battle line, a hundred thousand strong — A picturesque, but nigh appalling throng. With bows, and arrows, jav'lins made with springs, And spears, and darts — all copper barbed — and slings. Which sped their missiles as if borne on wings, While blazoned banners in the distance waved. The Indian masses thus the Spaniards braved. The soldiers with a simple girdle clad. Their bodies painted and their war-songs glad. While drums and trumpets, sounded o'er the roar Of swaying numbers as they onward bore. Each captain was arrayed in feather mail, Whose tints were richer than the peacock's tail, * The conch-shell, which, when blown into, produced a loud shrill summons to battle. 128 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And — half concealing this — a vest of gold — A bright cuirass whose wearer's station told — And leathern boots, or sandals, silver trimmed, While from his helmet rose a plume or crest, Whose colors dimmed the lustre of the rest, And here and there a leader wore a mask Grotesque in form, which made the Spaniards ask If they were men, or demons in disguise, Who in this guise Satanic met their eyes. Then, as the morning sun illumed the scene. And gilded moving hosts with dazzling sheen — Where Christians fighting infidels were seen. While back its rays cuirass and helmet flashed — The horsemen, at a signal, forward dashed. " Christo y Sa?itiagor^ loudly rang Above the battle's far-resounding clang, And ^' Adelante ! Adelante I ^'' too, And fast their lances pierced the heathen through. With headlong pace they ploughed the human tide, And earth where'er they went with slaughter dyed, And by despair emboldened " Conquest ! " cried. The while the Spanish infantry defied The nation's gathered armies with their swords. And cut their battling foemen down like gourds. The foremost in the fray was Cortez there. And ^'- Jesu Christo P' filled at times the air. While oft his lips were seen to move in prayer. The natives paused, and wavered ; then they fled, And left behind them, on the field, their dead. But ere retreating far — pursued, and sore — While in their ears they heard the cannon's roar — They turned, and stood, defiantly, at bay; Again advancing fought, and lost the day. With cruel carnage sore repulsed were they. The Christian troops had closely serried stood, And there the shock of all their arms withstood. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 129 Their panoplies of steel a shelter gave From darts, and spears, and ev'ry heart was brave, Though round in tumult warriors wildly surged, Their shattered ranks by valiant leaders urged. The ancient Greeks and Persians, seemed once more To fight their battle as in days of 3'ore. The cannon boomed and filled the field with slain, And arquebuses threw their leaden rain Till Tlascala, defeated, cried — " 'T is vain To longer combat with the bearded foe Who thus with death can down our columns mow." So back they fell again to music low. Embroidered on the standard of the state, Which — thus repulsed — now trembled for its fate, A golden eagle spread its shining wings* As if to soar from this to better things, While near it — white — the heron on a rockf Waved undisturbed by war's tremendous shock, And other banners here and there were seen — Red, white, and yellow, purple, blue, and green. One last resort to arms — a night attack Still brought these legions to their foemen back. But they were vanquished more than e'er before. For Spanish steel, alas! slew thousands more. IV. Ambassadors were sent ere passed the night To tell the chiefs how great was Christian might, Inviting peace ere dawned the morning's light. The Spaniards — all — were wounded in the strife, * The banner of the Republic of Tlascala was emblazoned with a golden eagle with outstretched wings. t The white heron on a rock was the standard of the house of Xicotencatl of Tlascala. I30 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And passed had some — through mortal wounds — from life, While clamors rose which Cortez grieved to hear. " We'll seek the sea," they cried, " for death is here ! " But Cortez answered — " Comrades, banish fear, For Christ our prayers, where'er we are, will hear." How glad were they when ere the day there came Submission in the fierce Republic's name, Which left them free triumphantly to go Through Tlascala, and on to Mexico. The great caziques extended welcome aid, And with the victors there a treaty made — Declaring thus allegiance firm to Spain — And sanctioned in their clime the stranger's reign ; While Cortez cried — "From ill I'll shield you all. Bear witness now Saint Peter, and Saint Paul ! " So he to steadfast allies turned his foes, And in their leading city found repose, And tarried like a monarch twenty days, Receiving homage, and awarding praise. Alas ! they little knew the depth of woe To follow this their country's overthrow. Or yet how soon the victors they'd have been Had they their strength, while strength availed them, seen. Against the few invaders of their soil — Athirst for conquest, and the victor's spoil. 'Twas strange their legions thus should come to naught When bravely they for life, and country, fought. They deemed their fierce assailants' lives were charmed. And all with thunder, and with lightning armed. In Tlascala — the city — Cortez cried — " Your idols spurn, or else ye woe betide, THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 131 And Christ, and Virgin, in your hearts enthrone, Nor dare to worship gods to us unknown ! " But prieslly words the leader's hand restrained, And blood no more the soil beneath him stained. Six blooming maids, as brides, were tendered there, All chieftains' children, richly dight, and fair, But Cortez said — " Ere Spaniards these can win Freed they must be — baptized — from ev'ry sin, For Christians ne'er with heathen wives can dwell." And to the rite then bowed each Indian belle Ere to the city Cortez bade farewell. V. When Montezuma heard the tidings true Invasion's cloud to him portentous grew. In fear and haste he sent four nobles more With gifts superb which they to Cortez bore — Three thousand ounces weight of golden ore. And fabrics, rich, a monarch well might wear, But prayed from further havoc he'd forbear. Nor nearer to his city e'er advance, For ill might there o'ertake his arms, perchance. VI. Toward Mexico the army moved again. And in its ranks six thousand native men. These Cortez placed from prudence in the van, And with them wide the country round o'erran. Ere long a city vast — Cholula — shone Before his vision, built of brick, and stone — A sacred, and a consecrated jDlace, For to this Mecca pilgrims came for grace. A mighty mound — a pyramidal form. 132 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Which had for countless ages braved the storm — High on its summit reared a jewelled shrine, And there they prayed to gods they deemed divine. From this exalted temple all was grand As Cortez gazed upon the smiling land. Far to the west a rocky barrier rose Designed the mighty valley to enclose— The charming gem of charming Mexico, Which he beheld with admiration's glow — While high above two mountain peaks were seen — A freak of Nature seeming on the scene — Like sentinels to guard this splendid vale, Which looked to him like an enchanted dale. Far to the east still Orizaba's cone Among the clouds stood barren, bleak, alone, And nearer Mount Malinche shadows threw O'er plains below where maize, and aloes grew, The mountains— all volcanoes— ermine crowned. And wide o'erlooking all the region round. Below, the holy city peaceful lay, Its turrets sparkling in the beams of day, Its groves, and gardens, stretching far away, Its pinnacles resplendent in the sky. Such is the prospect still that meets the eye Which o'er the plain of Puebla wanders wide, And all the Spaniards viewed the scene with pride. VII. Cholula gave them welcome with her praise, And strewed their path with fragrant bloom, and bays, While music rose, with incense, on the air, And songs were sung by maidens young and fair. In art, and science, she no rival knew, But, indisposed to fight, her wars were few. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 133 Yet there — " A plot ! — A plot ! " was whispered low, And Cortez cried — "I'll strike a crushing blow. I'll lead the heathen masses to the square, And slay them while they struggle in the snare." No plot was known among the native throng, Yet felt they all the lash of cruel wrong. The deed was done : the signal Cortez gave Which ushered sinless creatures to the grave. The troops — prepared — a dreadful volley fired From arquebuse, and crossbow, then retired A step, again to load, while forward flew The cavalry, and pleading masses slew. Like grain before the reaper's fatal sweep They fell, and Death enfolded them in sleep. While Phoebus brightly from his burnished throne On that terrific scene of carnage shone. Some tried to scale the walls, but wounded fell ; Some perished at the gateways with a yell, The victims of the pikes that pierced them there. 'Mid agonizing shrieks that filled the air Some burrowed under piles of reeking slain, But all from slaughter sought escape in vain. Yet " Jesu Christo ! " Spaniards spoke in prayer, Unmoved by cries of anguish, and despair. Outside the walls that girt the fatal square The people ran their kinsmen there to save, But some who strove to succor found a grave. For on them, lo ! the cannon, now were turned. And homes, and fanes, by Spanish hands were burned. The Tlascalans — their foes — upon them sprang, And thrilling blasts from conches round them rang. And swelled the tempest which still wilder raged As Indian flew on Indian, there, enraged. The flames, and carnage, and the dying groans. 134 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. The cries for mercy, and heartrending moans, The musket's rattle, and the cannon's roar, The spectacle of ruin, and of gore, The pandemonium of sights, and sounds — Where evil passions knew no common bounds — Filled all the scene; and horror, and dismay, Spread through Cholula on that awful day. Then as the storm of battle died away, The troops for plunder through the city sped While o'er six thousand lay — their victims — dead. All this beneath a Christian flag was done. Could worse have acted Vandal, Goth, or Hun? Yet ere the night the victors kneeling prayed, And, looking upward, asked for heavenly aid. And crossed their breasts devoutly in the Mass, Nor grieved that deeds so foul had come to pass. But still there rests on Cortez, and on Spain, This wanton massacre's revolting stain. " Let Christian faith," said Cortez, " supersede The doctrines of Cholula's ancient creed," And where the jewelled shrine on high had stood, Before this hurricane of fire and blood, A mammoth cross was built of lime, and stone, Nor more Cholula's idols there were knov/n. VIII. When Montezuma heard this tale of woe He trembled for his fate, and Mexico. V/ith rage, and consternation, deep, he saw The fierce invader toward his city draw. And envoys sent again to meet the foe. And warn him back to ocean's breast to go, Yet friendship feigned withal, and presents sent To win to this — how vainly ! — his consent. In mind he weakly wavered which to do — THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 135 Oppose him foe-like, or for favor sue. Unable yet to make him flee the soil He feared he'd find in Mexico his spoil, And cried — " My reign, perchance, will soon be o'er When thus Cholula's bathed in Aztec gore. Yet still I'll try to stop the foe's approach, For whose advance not I deserve reproach." The Spaniards soon their lengthy march resumed To meet him — Montezuma — now foredoomed. But Cempoalla's braves the monarch feared The more as they his island city neared, And said, " O Master! let us homeward fly, Nor lead us into Mexico to die, And Cortez — with reluctance — yielding this They found in nearing home, and kindred, bliss. IX. The road awhile through green savannas lay, And rich plantations stretching far away. But soon they climbed the bold Sierra's sides. Which Mexico's from Puebla's plain divides. Its frosted crest above them grandly rose. While condors o'er it soared, and carrion crows. On up the steep ascent the troops defiled Between the two volcanoes, lofty, wild,* Which there in grandeur pierced the vault of blue. And lent majestic beauty to the view. The loftiest peak some daring Spaniards scaled, Yet, then, to reach the belching crater failed. But Cortez sent a troop in later days * Popocatepetl— " The hill that smokes" — rising 17,852 feet above the level of the sea, more than 2,000 feet higher than Mont Blanc, and Iztaccihuatl — " the white woman," — so called from its robe of snow. 136 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. To glean the sulphur from its walls — ablaze, " For we," said he, "can turn to powder this." They heard the deep volcano roar, and hiss. And saw its fires beneath them, strangely bright, Which touched the crater^s walls with lurid light. Down this abyss four hundred feet or more. Their lot was then a Spaniard, bold to lower — * A valiant deed that filled them all with pride. Volcanoes thus with powder Spain supplied. X. Through gorge, and canon, on the army filed, And soon — the summit gained — the valley smiled In blooming beauty — an enchanting vale — As bright as e'er was sketched in fairy tale. Before them there the Mexic garden lay. Bright, picturesque, colossal, green, and gay. Its noble forests stretching far away, With cultured fields, and orchards here and there. Distinct, though distant, in the lucid air. Its shining lakes, and far-extending plains, Its cities with their turrets, and their fanes, And dusky hills, and meads of yellow maize, Appeared before their rapt, admiring gaze, While in the centre of the valley stood — Borne on the bosom of Tezcuco's flood * Great Mexico where Montezuma dwelt. And equal laws to all his people dealt — The stately Venice of the Aztec realm, Which they — so few — were soon to overwhelm. * They cast lots, and it fell on one Montano to descend in the basket, * Lake Tezcuco in the centre of which the city of Mexico was built. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 137 High o'er it all the Royal Hill was seen Crowned with a cypress-grove, gigantic green — The home of Montezuma, and his race, Their cradle, throne, and sacred resting-place. A speck, beyond the waters of the lake — Half screened from view by intervening brake — Told of Tezcuco's city, like it grand. Backed by a porphyritic belt — a band Which girdle-like around the valley wound — A setting meet for all the gems it bound. The Spaniard's breast with warm emotion swelled As he at last the promised land beheld, And Cortez felt as Moses felt of yore When he from Pisgah viewed the happy shore. The fairest scene was this that e'er he'd seen, Bathed in the morning sun's resplendent sheen. But while it charmed it awed the band he led, And while the wealth he saw his av'rice fed His comrades quailed, so great seemed Aztec might, Whose signs where'er they journeyed met the sight. " Oh ! backward," some to Cortez pleaded, " turn ! " But all such pleadings he was quick to spurn. For spoils so rich his ardent spirit yearned, And Christian zeal for Aztec converts burned : Nor failed he languid courage to revive. " For conquest, and conversion," cried he, " strive, Nor, Comrades, e'er of great success despair. The Christianas safety is the Virgin's care ! " And so emboldened, down the mountain-side The army marched with reawakened pride. XI. From many a hamlet startled peasants came To see the White Gods — they had won the name — 138 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And down the valley, far, had spread their fame. All anxious seemed to do whate'er would please, And wond'ring crowds grew denser by degrees. Ambassadors ere long once more appeared From Montezuma who their prowess feared. And these to Cortez rendered gifts of gold, And of their sovereign's might and grandeur told, Yet begged he'd turn, and all his steps retrace, Nor e'er again from ocean turn his face. But Cortez said — " To him — your king — I go, For to his friendship much, methinks, I owe, And I would gaze awhile on Mexico, And more of Spain I ween he'd gladly know." When Montezuma heard the tidings, lo ! He felt a sense of deep, impending woe. The bold Sierra's topmost height was scaled. And all his arts to stay the march had failed. That lofty and defensive screen was leaped, And he in sorrow found his spirit steeped. His martial courage left him, and he cried — " Oh ! that ere this — my destiny — I'd died ! But as so far they've journeyed o'er the plain And all resistance seems, to check them, vain I'll now extend a welcome as a friend. And envoys, new — with gifts — to meet them send. Necessity a virtue thus may seem, And I would fain my course they'd friendly deem." The envoys met their guests by Chalco's lake, And said — " Of all we bring you come partake. We wish you welcome from your distant clime, And Montezuma, whom we call sublime. His gifts, and kindly greetings, bids us bear. To Mexico he prays you'll now repair, THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 139 And in the monarch's name the way we'll lead." "On! Comrades," Cortez cried, "with quickened speed ! " The blooming cacti, and the maguey green, A.nd oaks, and ceibas, beautified the scene; And woodlands plumed with palms, and clad with vines. And hung with moss in countless strange designs — Where sycamores, and willows, rose on high — In patches, here and yonder, met the eye. Across the lake — along the causeway grand — The army marched — a small but gallant band — With water stretching far on either hand. And floating gardens blooming on its face Borne by the restless winds from place to place, While round the margin of the lake were towns — Besprinkled with the palm-trees' spreading crowns — Whose limits ran beyond the solid land — The views around diversified, and grand — And rose on piles above the placid flood. Which skirted league on league of field and wood. And o'er whose surface in the noontide glow A thousand light canoes shot to and fro. So picturesque, and bright, and fair a scene Had ne'er before by Spanish eyes been seen. To Iztapalapan at length they came — Still, as they marched, preceded by their fame — Where, in the palace, all were entertained. And there, with sumptuous cheer, the night remained And wandered through its gardens, vast and gay. Where Flora made a prodigal display. And trees and shrubs — each species in a row — Were gathered from all over Mexico, And as the sun sank grandly in the west 140 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. His beams the city's minarets caressed. The tongue of Cortez uttered words of praise As Mexico, the famous, met his gaze. There shining bright in those inspiring rays Were teocallis^^ palaces, and spires. While on the distant hills blazed beacon-fires To signalize the presence of the band Whose advent spread such wonder through the land. PART THIRD. I. The morrow came : the march was then resumed, While trumpet blasts were heard, and cannon boomed To fill the Aztec multitude with awe, And make them marvel at the things they saw. Like some bright fairy vision shone the scene, With tints of gold and crimson, blue and green. Scarce now four hundred sons of old Castile Advanced in line with arquebuse, and steel, With full six thousand allies in the rear — No man of whom but felt a twinge of fear — To overthrow an empire, and a throne, And claim the country, and its wealth, their own. Along the giant causeway, built of stone, Extending through a broad and placid lake, Not slow were they their onward way to take, For straight it led them to the city's gate. And who could tell what there would be their fate ? Here floating isles of verdure, and of bloom Displayed their beauty and exhaled perfume, * Temples. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 141 And villages, and hamlets, built on piles, The sparkling waters half-concealed for miles. While swift chinampas* here and there were seen, And wondrous fair was all that sunny scene. II. A host of nobles soon were met who came Great Montezuma's advent to proclaim. These cotton skirts, and mantles — woven — wore, And some with feather-work were blazoned o'er, And round their necks and arms mosaics shone, While from each nostril hung a precious stone. And underlips, and ears alike displayed Rich pendants, both of gold and turquoise made. Ere long the monarch's glitt'ring retinue, Around his palanquin, appeared in view. "The Aztec sovereign," Cortez cried, "behold!" 'Mid blazing feather-work, and burnished gold. Beneath a canopy with silver fringed — While all around his faithful vassals cringed — Borne on the shoulders of his lords he came. The mighty Montezuma known to fame. Whose word was law throughout his rich domain. Who'd battles fought, and seldom fought in vain — The sovereign ruler of a warlike race — Here met the white invaders face to face. Alighting from his splendid palanquin. Which brightly sparkled in Apollo's sheen, He stepped to where the Christian leader stood. While shone on either side Tezcuco's flood. In slavish adulation forms were bowed As Montezuma passed among the crowd. He wore his nation's ample cloak and skirt, * The canoes on Lake Tezcuco. 142 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And gaily-colored, much embroidered shirt, And sandals, for his feet a fitting shield. His raven hair a helmet half concealed — A crown in which — Cappilli — * stood revealed — Whereon an eagle, soaring high, was wrought Which lustre from the beams of Phoebus caught, While from its centre rose a royal plume That rivalled in its beauty richest bloom. His garments, too, with gems were thickly set — The chalchuite,^ the ruby, and the jet, And ornaments of gold of strange design. In stature tall — and thin — with look benign He seemed a man by nature formed to shine ; While pale of skin, the fairest of his race. His keen and ebon eyes illumed his face, On which there grew a scant yet comely beard, And seldom such on Aztecs e'er appeared. Both dignity and ease his port combined, And culture gave refinement to his mind. Bright silver casques and plumes his warriors wore, And mantles — gay tilmatli's—X red as gore. But trimmed with fur, and thickly jewelled o'er, And quilted tunics, cotton-wove, and blue. And sashes of a like cerulean hue. To Cortez Montezuma soon was shown, Who to the Spaniard made his mission known. "I come," said he, " with welcome on my tongue, Ye men of whom the oracles have sung ! '' * The name of the Aztec monarch's crown. t The Mexican emerald. X The tihnatli was a mantle of blue-tinted cotton worn over a lightly quilted cotton tunic by the Aztec men generally, but in the case of those of high degree it was of crimson color, jewelled, and trimmed with fur. The sash which bound it was also of cotton and called the maxtlntl. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 143 The Spanish chief dismounted at his side, And through Marina to his words replied, With great respect, and reverence profound. A neckhice round his throat the Spaniard wound. And then embraced the monarch where he stood. Exclaiming — " I esteem thee great, and good !^' But those in waiting on their sovereign cried — " From mighty Montezuma stand aside ! '^ And showed by looks their wonder and alarm. But Cortez answered — " Children, fear no harm, For I embrace your chieftain as a friend. And ne'er may friendships thus cemented end." Surprise was pictured in each Spaniard's eyes As Montezuma praised their enterprise, And feigned to welcome those he held in dread, Whose coming through the clime had wonder spread. Strange men w^ere those he now before him saw. And on their forms the monarch gazed with awe. Their advent in his valley had of old Been by his sacred oracles foretold, And more than human all their prowess seemed. " Yes these," he sighed, " are those of whom I dreamed, Predestined to my country overrun. Such men are surely smiled on by the Sun." The hue of superstition tinged his mind. And, like a bigot led, he wandered blind. His oracles inspired his anxious dread — While with delusions all his fears were fed— When first he heard of this invading horde Who came from ocean armed with fire and sword. These oracles of fell invasion told By strangers from the waters — strong and bold. And prophesied they'd speedy triumphs gain, And ever after in the land remain. 144 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Resistance, then, by him might prove in vain, And why should man of destiny complain ? He felt them his superiors in race, In weapons mighty, and like gods in face. These surely could no other be than those — The wonder, and the terror, of their foes — Predicted by the oracles — whose sway Would sweep for ever Aztec rule away ; And so he yielded — rather than defy. Nor dared to sound his country's battle-cry. It might be, too, some providence had sent — The God, perchance, that starred the firmament — These pale, and bearded men to scan the land For some great purpose none could understand, And good might come from evil things at last. And turn to joy the mourning of the past. Thus o'er their advent Montezuma mused, And none of wrong, or cowardice, accused. Amid a prostrate multitude of braves, Who gladly owned themselves their monarch's slaves. His royal wand great Montezuma waved — While those around; his blessing humbly craved — And stepped into his palanquin in state, And thus returned he to his palace gate. He bade his brother onward lead the guests. Who marched with hope rekindled in their breasts ; And so with flags and music, soon, they came To Tenochtitlan,* great in Aztec fame. * The Aztec name of the city of Mexico, signifying a tunal (a cactus) on a stone — so called by the first settlers there, about 1325. The name Mexico by which the city and coun- try have always been known to Europeans, was derived from that of the Aztec war-god called Mexitli by the Spaniards, but more properly known as Huitzilopotchli — the Mexican Mars. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 145 III. The city's grandeur, now, the Spaniards saw, And admiration ripened into awe. The street they trod was stately, long and wide, With massive buildings ranged on either side Both fanes and dwellings built of reddish stone Whose roofs with blooming plants were half o'er- grown. While gardens lay between them here and there, Diffusing fragrance through the balmy air. Great open squares — tia7iguez — met the eye,' And pyramidal temples rose on high, Colossal in their bulk, with blazing fires — On altars built for solemn fun'ral pyres — Which ever burned in darkness, and in light, And crowned each sanctuary's topmost height. Vast Aztec crowds were gathered by the way — The sight of which made ev'ry Spaniard pray— The pale invaders, as they came, to see, But not a sound was heard of revelry. They thronged the roads, the windows, and the roofs. And started at the sound of horses' hoofs. That clatt'ring trod their pavements smooth and clean. Such monsters, huge, they ne'er before had seen. The music seemed unearthly in their ears. In some awaking mirth, in others fears. For instruments of theirs had never thrilled Their hearts like these, whose strains their citv filled. ^ Bright falchions flashed, and bonnets made of steel, And cries arose of "Jesus and Castile ! " — While in the shining sun the armor glanced — As on the troops with stately tread advanced. 146 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Close in the rear the Tlascalans appeared At whose approach the Aztecs — groaning — sneerecL For these — their safety — Cortez gravely feared, For each the other hated, and with hate That time could ne'er — nor circumstance — abate. O'er bridge on bridge o'er broad canals they passed On which canoes were gliding thick and fast, Each bearing market burdens to and fro, Whose paddlers sang at times in voices low. At length the army halted in a square Where high the war-god's temple pierced the air — The largest fane that rose in Mexico Since Cortez laid Cholula's structure low, And facing this a royal palace stood, While in the distance shone Tezcuco's flood. IV. Here Montezuma came his guests to meet, And gladly seemed their chief again to greet, And round his neck a string of jewels placed, And with a scarlet plume his helmet graced. Then pointing to a palace near his own,* Where long before his father sat the throne. He said — " In peace, I pray you there abide, And daily all your wants I'll see supplied." The Spaniard in return his thanks expressed, And Montezuma, and his empire, blessed. While beads of glass, and baubles, he bestowed, And ardor thus to gain his favor showed. But though so calm, and peaceful, all appeared The Spanish chief surprise, and danger feared. And guns, and troops, disposed in such array * The palace of Axayacatl, Montezuma's father, built about fifty years before, but not occupied by Montezuma. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 147 The palace grounds they guarded either way. A banquet soon was served to all the guests Who murmured — " Thank the Lord ! " with grateful breasts, And then the sweet siesta these enjoyed — A boon that Spaniards ne'er themselves denied, And which they found as needful as their food, For this repose exhausted strength renewed. Anon came Montezuma prone to speak. And said — " Of Spain I more of knowledge seek, And gifts I bring to all who've gathered here, Who well deserve the best of Aztec cheer. Each gift's a pledge of friendship unto ye, Ye pale-faced rovers from a distant sea." Each Spaniard in the army took his share Of gold, and silver, gems, and garb to wear,- And when the monarch with his train withdrew All praised him for this proof of friendship new. And cried — " The tales we heard were all unti ue. Munificence like this who ever knew ? His foes, perchance, their falsehoods yet will me ! " That eve their cannon thundered in the square In celebration of their advent there, And smoke as from volcanoes filled the air. The Aztecs — superstitious — felt afraid. And Montezuma looked like one dismayed. V. The morning dawned, and Cortez, grave with thought. The Aztec monarch in his palace sought, *' For there," said he, " I fain would pay my court." He found it vast, and fashioned like a fort — The buildings low — a long uneven file, But built of stone, and picturesque in style. With fountains in their yards, disporting high, 148 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And touched by rays that brightened earth and sky, While running o'er a hundred baths to fill. Floods from Chapultepec's deep basin'd hill Thus found their way within the palace walls. Hernando Cortez crossed the outer halls — Mid servitors — to Montezuma's throne, Which like a jewel in its splendor shone, While clouds of incense from the censers rose. Magnificence was blended with repose. In nequen robes the servitors were dressed,* Each anxious to obey his King's behest. And Montezuma wore his royal crest — The gay capilli, yea, the Aztec crown. His features seemed to wear a passing frown As unfamiliar footsteps caught his ear, But to his herald he " Admit " replied,^ And Cortez soon was standing at his side. He welcomed him, and asked him why he came. Then Cortez, in pursuance of his aim To make a convert of the nation's head, Explained how Jesus on the Cross had bled. And died for all mankind, who thus were saved If they by grace their own redemption craved. A crucifix he held before his eyes. And said — " Embrace, I pra}^, the Christian's prize, Nor let barbaric learning sway your mind. In this you'll bliss, and life eternal, find. The scheme of man's salvation I'll explain : " But all his exhortation proved in vain, For Montezuma to his gods was true, His faith unshaken still by doctrines new. * The nequen was a coarse white garment made from the fibre of aloes, which was worn by courtiers, and others, in the presence of Montezuma. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 149 VI. Marina as interpreter had served, And well the praise of Cortez she deserved. "Why from his faith has not the monarch swerved ? " He asked in disappointment. She replied — " His faith is that in which his fathers died. He scorns whoe'er would faith so true deride. His nation's gods he loves, respects, and fears, And ne'er will he renounce what he reveres. Lo ! danger lurks in efforts to convert. He handles fire who'd Aztec gods subvert ! "' Marina loved her lord, as well he knew. Her warning voice he heeded and withdrew From Montezuma's presence ere he spoke Another word his anger to provoke. But, ere he left, the monarch gifts bestowed. And friendly feelings toward the Spaniard showed, And sent his soldiers more of gems and gold. And jewels of a strange, fantastic mould. " Such gifts as these," he said, " become the bold ! " VII. To Cortez all was new, and strangely grand, That met his eye where'er he viewed the land, And far surpassing all he hoped to find. The mighty city Art had well designed. And strength with beauty there was well combined, While in the realm an engine vast he saw By reason guided, disciplined by law. And ruled by one whose edicts all obeyed. To fight it well might Cortez feel afraid. His little band had ne'er more helpless seemed 150 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Than when the city first before him gleamed. That city like a citadel was planned, And screened by water from the neighb'ring land. A drawbridge here, and there a dike, were seen, And long canals that basked in sunny sheen. It insulated stood from all around. The houses rose like castles from the ground, And who could tell but Montezuma's nod Might send them to the presence of their God 1 With odds so great could skill and science cope .? Yet plans strategic gave the Spaniards hope. VIII. A week of calm in Mexico had flown When Cortez said — "The monarch I'll dethrone. The royal favor may to fury turn, And where before he flattered he may spurn. The Mexicans may weary of their guests, For secret hatred rankles in their breasts. The bridges raised, where then can we retreat? And we may meet — we know not how — defeat." Thus in the leader's mind distrust arose Which tended much to rob him of repose. To Montezuma's palace he would go To capture him, or strike the monarch low. He bade his captains come in straggling groups, While at their call should wait their bravest troops, To turn his palace to a battle-field If Montezuma there refused to yield. IX. The morning came for meeting, and they met, When Cortez murmured — " Ere the sun doth set The monarch's fate, and mine, perchance I'll seal^ THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO. 1 5 1 For God is good, and trusty is my steel ! " Addressing Montezuma, Cortez spoke As one resolved to wrathful words provoke, But he to rouse his indignation failed. And found himself with gifts again regaled. He none the less, howe'er, with threats assailed The friendly sov'reign seated on the throne. Whose word might then have all his arms o'er- thrown ; But Montezuma still from wrath refrained, And with his foe serenely peace maintained. A pretext for his contemplated act Found Cortez in a city he had sacked, Where of his soldiers two were seized, and slain. "Of this," said he, " I now and here complain, And blame you, Montezuma, for the deed. Let death to all who slew them be decreed. To show your friendship come with us reside Till, like their victims, slaughtered, they have died, And in the palace we will treat you well. A pleasant place it is in which to dwell." Amazement Montezuma then displayed, And o'er his visage passed a sombre shade. And then with indignation he was flushed. A moment more, he trembled, and was crushed. He saw his awful fate before him rise With thoughts which seemed his soul to agonize. He deemed resistance vain against the foe Who stood prepared to strike a deadly blow, Whose might, he knew, had filled the land with woe. He lost his strength by yielding to despair. Which laid his craven heart, before them, bare. Still wore his mind its superstitious hue. The God supreme, who ruled the world, he knew" Had sent these wondrous beings thus to do, And whatsoe'er Mexitli had decreed 152 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. He'd gladly do, nor for protection plead. Yet from his palace walls he ne'er would go To make himself the scorn of Mexico. " No degradation such as this for me," The monarch cried — " No, leave me — Spaniards — free, And justice fairly dealt to all I'll see." In altercation full two hours had passed. And Montezuma sat his throne aghast. When one among the Spaniards — Leon named — * Impatient of the long delay, exclaimed — " Why waste on this barbaric hound our breath .-^ In this attempt, if not the deed, is death To all our hopes if we but falter here. We've gone too far — my comrades — to recede. So let us do whate'er we do with speed. We'll spear him through and through if he resists, And still to linger where he is persists. Arrest him now, and tear him hence away, Or we have lost in Mexico the day ! " Marina into Aztec turned the threat. And Montezuma's brow grew cold and wet, W^hile sadly he with grief, and terpor, sighed. " I would," said he, " ere this that I had died, Ere in the dust was crushed my native pride, And on my country this affliction fell. The oracles have conquest long foretold By fierce invaders, like these Spaniards bold, But few believed the sage prediction true. Tezcatlipoca f thus ^vhy dost thou do .'' " * Velasquez de Leon, the leader of a hundred men, and a kinsman of Velasquez, the governor of Cuba. t A god supposed to have been the creator of the world. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 153 X. Pride came at last to Montezuma's aid. "Let preparations now," said he, "be made To bear me in my palanquin to dwell Where lodge the strangers, more I cannot tell." Then he was carried through the palace gate With all the pomp attending royal state, And passed within the barracks of his foes. The people near in tumult nigh arose Believing Montezuma captive made, But he exclaimed — " No need have I of aid," And^-Cortez-prompted — then, with bearing proud Addressed his sons — a dense, excited crowd — As in the palmy days forever gone, Yet felt dismayed, and looked in visage wan. He said — " My children, angry passions calm," And in his words they found a healing balm. Thus he to rescue closed the open door Lest he should perish ere the strife was o'er. Weak, superstitious, craven-hearted too, He bowed submissive to a tyrant few With stony hearts, and fierce as beasts of prey, Whose impulse was to plunder, and to slay. They feigned respect, for Montezuma now, And Spaniards as they passed him paused to bow, And gave him freedom in those narrow bounds Prescribed by safety and his prison grounds, But guarded him by night and day from flight, For well they knew that this would be their blight. While, through his fears, in bondage he'd remain The friend of Cortez, and the hope of Spain. Through him they'd hold the Aztec realm in awe, For still his word in Mexico was law. 154 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. XL " Tezcatlipoca!^^ Montezuma cried — " Ere this occurred I would that I had died ! " He called the ieotuctli^ to his side, And said — " Methinks I'll here awhile abide, And take the teomoxtli f for my guide, And to the sea-god — Halo — daily pray To take the white invaders far away. In all the teocaUicsX in the land Invoke MexitU's all-protecting hand To screen us from the dangers of the day, And make our foes of Midlan § soon the prey. To ev'ry teule || in ev'ry garden bow, And ask of Quetzal H — mark me ! — wisdom now. To each teotl * * — ev'ry household shrine — A prayer address, and make the sacred sign, And let tamanes^ f bear you to and fro To do the work appointed here below. And o'er the lake in swift chinampas % % speed, And in the signs around the future read." His fav'rite game of totaloque%% no more He played with golden balls, as oft before, *The chief priest, t The Aztec bible. % The temples. § The Aztec hell, symbolized by the owl. II An image of a god generally placed on a pedestal in a garden. *!' Qiietzalcoatl, who taught agriculture and wisdom. ** The image of a god to be found in a niche in every house. ft The porters employed to carry palanquins — the carriages of those of high degree. J J The canoes on Lake Tezcuco. §§ One of the amusements of Montezuma — played with THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 155 But brooded sadly o'er his fallen state, And tujias^ ^ and the choclat^ only ate, Nor drank oipulgice though his heart was sore ; Yet ?iequen still his vassals round him wore— To show that he was monarch o'er them still— And all their actions hung upon his will. Time passed until at length one morn there came An Aztec chief 1: that Cortez held to blame— An escort with him worthy of his fame. He came to answer Montezuma's call, As yet unconscious of the monarch's fall. "Two. Spaniards in your country have been slain, And death alone can wipe away the stain, So you and all your nobles here must die. Apply the torch, and pile the fagots high." Thus Cortez to his answer made reply. The chief, his son, and fifteen nobles died, And o'er their fate a gazing concourse sighed. Who deemed that Montezuma doomed to death Those who in torments thus resigned their breath ; But while the palace-yard was red with flame The captive monarch groaned with grief and shame, For manacled and chained thus soon he lay. He felt at last he'd lost his sov'reign sway. He saw himself insulted and despised, And stripped of all he cherished, loved and prized— A captive where he'd ruled— a helpless slave. Less bitter would to him have been the grave. golden balls— which he relinquished after the invasion of his empire. * Figs. t Choclatl — chocolate. % Quauhpopoca, an Aztec governor of a province. 156 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Deep in his soul the dagger entered then, And clear were all things to his mental ken. "These fetters are," said Cortez, " but your due. Your honored chief — no more — the Spaniards slew. And guilty, with your chief, perchance are you, But I will now unloose your binding chains. For mercy is an attribute of Spain's." The monarch gave him thanks, and gifts of gold, And of his friendship for the Spaniards told — He Montezuma yesterday so great, Who ruled a realm, and lived in splendid state : So mighty then, so abject now, so low. A sad romance was this of Mexico. To tyranny, and fate, he humbly bowed — He who had erst been proudest of the proud. The burning of the chief, and all his train, The valley filled with terror, and with pain, And all the Aztecs marvelled o'er the deed, Nor failed in this still greater woes to read. XII. One who the city near — Tezcuco — ruled. And who in native war was deeply schooled — A kinsman ^ of the captive monarch, too, Indignant with the fierce invaders grew. And vengeance vowed on all who'd gathered there, Nor one of these, his country's foes, would spare. But Cortez said to Montezuma — "Lo! Your kinsman — yea, your nephew — is my foe, And ere he strikes, this hand must leave him low. For him I bid you swiftly weave a snare. Or you no more may breathe your native air: " * A nephew. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 157 And by the snare, by Montezuma laid, The prince who sought his rescue stood betrayed, And chained, and bound, to Mexico was borne O'er cowardice, and perfidy to mourn, But with his Aztec pride unbroken still, And dauntless courage, and unyielding will, While like him, too, by Montezuma's aid. His comrades in the league were captive made. The monarch thus the Spaniards' favor won. And Cortez owned he'd noble service done. Of his — his captor's — wrath he lived in fear. And sold for life w^hat others held more dear. Lo ! on the necks of princes conquest's heel Was planted 'neath the banner of Castile. The priests in solemn prayer their thanks expressed. And to their lips their crucifixes pressed. XIII. "Allegiance, Montezuma, I demand From you and all the princes in the land, And all must render tribute unto Spain, And glorify the Spanish sovereign's reign." Thus Cortez spoke, and thus the king replied — " Crushed in the dust is all my former pride. A captive can but follow where you guide." He summoned, then, his leaders to his side. And begged them all allegiance to declare. And love fraternal toward the Spaniards bear. Amazed, but still submissive, they complied — Though o'er the degradation, deep, they sighed — And tribute sent in silver and in gold To which the monarch added wealth untold."* * The whole was valued at about six millions, three hun- dred thousand dollars or ;^i,4i7,ooo, exclusive of the previous presents. 158 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. The spoils with avaricious eyes were viewed, And o'er their distribution rose a feud, While those who quarrelled gambled with their gains, And angry blood went coursing through their veins. Ere long, as oft before, the luckless swore — With QYQxy peso lost — they'd play no more. XIV. Achieved the conquest of the country seemed, And of a reign of triumph Cortez dreamed. But this still lay through bloody fields remote : Nor yet the Aztecs had their tyrants smote. The Aztec faith in Aztec breasts remained Though Aztec temples Christian hands profaned. Misguided thousands still devoutly stood In prayer, at altars red with human blood, And sacrifices — human — in their eyes — With tragic scenes designed to agonize — Alone their wrathful gods would satisfy. And some there were with longings thus to die. " Idolatry like this," the Spaniards cried, " We pray you leave — with one consent — aside. And Father, Son, and Holy Ghost address," But they idolaters were none the less. With angry eyes the Spaniards on them looked. And oft were they, with Christian zeal, rebuked. '' Mexitli's shrine," said Cortez, "shall be Thine : Where idols are I'll raise the Cross divine, And in the fane in which barbaric rites Present by night and day revolting sights — And earth itself by these are now defiled — I'll bow before the Virgin and the Child.'' And there, where Aztec pagans idols praised, A Christain altar richly dight was raised, THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 159 And side by side the Christians, prone to prayer, And pagans, prone to slaughter, worshipped there. This formed a strange, and inconsistent scene. Which ne'er had erst in heathen lands been seen. Wild chants, and shrill, before the war-god's shrine * Were heard above the Spanish hymns divine. Not discord thus to concord e'er could lead, Nor in the spirit aught but anger breed. The profanation of their sacred fane The Aztec priesthood filled with hate of Spain. These on their people called the foe to smite, And pat the pale invading host to flight. All but this outrage on their sacred fanes The Aztecs bore in silence ; e'en the chains Of captive princes, and the fun'ral pyre Had ne'er aroused their deep and deadly ire Like this foul insult, which united all. They by their gods resolved to stand or fall. XV. On Tenochtitlan seemed to fall a pall Of darkness and of gloom, as when a squall — Before it bursts in fury — shrouds the sk}'. And warns the sailor of the danger nigh. Presaging thunder, lightning, wind, and rain. And foaming billows on the angry main. Then Montezuma Cortez warned to flee From wrath to come, and shelter seek at sea, "For all," said he, "will rise at one command, And slay the pale invaders of the land. *The great Teocalli, or Sanctuary, of Mexico was dedicated to Mexitli, or Huilzilopotchli, the war-god of Anahuac, or Mexico. i6o THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. If you, Malinche'* — list — would shun the fight From Tenochtitlan speed ere comes the night." Surprised, and startled, but with courage armed, No sign he gave that Spaniards felt alarmed. He calmly to the monarch's words replied, And wisely pondered ere he all defied. " 'T would pain me much so quickly hence to fly,'* The Spaniard spoke, " and, then, no ships have I To bear me o'er the vast, cerulean main To tell the tale of Mexico to Spain. But if from Tenochtitlan I should go 'T would only swell the measure of your woe, For on the march a captive you'd remain, And suffer an infinitude of pain. Then spare yourself the journey, and the toil. By pouring on the troubled waters oil. Tell all your sons they'll find my friendship true, And ne'er the Spaniard's advent here will rue." XVI. Still darker Montezuma's brow became On comprehending the invader's aim. A captive on the march he feared to be, And longed to be from Spanish thraldom free. He asked how soon new vessels he could build, And if in building such his men were skilled, And when he heard from Cortez in reply He said, with kindling lustre in his eye, " I'll all the help ^^our men may need supply. To fell the trees that nearest court the sky. And build the barks to bear ye from the soil. The builders of the ships began their toil *The name bestowed upon both Cortez and Marina by the Mexicans. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. i6i At Villa Rica, near the ocean's tide — The Spaniard and the Aztec side by side — While Mexico in sullen mood surveyed, And Spanish lips for God's protection prayed. In Tenochtitlan — Mexico — no more Time passed serenely as in days of yore. For hatred slumbered in the nation's breast, And all around was ominous unrest.* The Spanish army seemed to stand at bay : Its sentinels were doubled night and day. And many a brave hidalgo feared a doom More dreadful than consignment to the tomb — A death upon the sacrificial stone. Where oft was heard some dying victim's groan ; t But boldly there the Christians stood their ground. While signs of siege were gath'ring all around. Six months had passed — since first they came — away, And dark the prospect now before them lay. " Ere long from Spain a fleet may find its way," The trusting Spaniards oft were heard to say. And oft for this they bent their knees to pray. With fresh supplies, and comrades, new, to cheer They felt of future conquest scarce a fear, But minus these, the future who could tell? And some to Hope were prone to cry farewell. * This was the condition of affairs early in May, 1520, six months after the arrival of the army in the capital. t The victim of sacrifice was placed on a large flat stone on the summit of the temple of the war god, and slaugh- tered by a priest making an incision in the breast and pluck- ing out with his hands the reeking heart. [62 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO, PART FOURTH. 'T WAS then from Villa Rica tidings came — Which filled the camp with gladness, and acclaim — That there a Spanish fleet one morn appeared, And straight for Villa Rica's shelter steered. But soon to apprehension joy was turned When of the strange armada more was learned. Nine hundred men and eighteen caravels, As ancient writ the simple story tells — In days like those a mighty armament — From Cuba's shore Velasquez there had sent To take from Cortez all his former sway, And force his band Velasquez to obey. O'er this armada Narvaez * held command. And cried — " Surrender ! " when he touched the land, And all his men exclaimed — "With Cortez down 1 " And camped in peace in Cempoalla's town. " Surrender ! Cortez," cried they, " now your sword, Your gold and silver — all your precious hoard ; Surrender ! ye at Villa Rica, too," But to their trust, and Cortez, they were true, And shouted in defiance — " Spaniards, nay. We'll ne'er surrender while our chief's away ! " In Tenochtitlan Cortez heard the news, And then resolved to perpetrate a ruse. "You, good Olmedo, both my priest and friend, f * Pronounce Narvaz. t Father Olmedo, who through the campaign had shown himself able and discreet in secular as well as spiritual affairs. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 163 To Narvaez with the olive-branch I'll send. A welcome to my rival I'll extend, But all my rights as captain still defend. I'll greet him as a comrade where he stands, But spurn his chief, and all that chief's demands. He'll ne'er, I know, consent to this — not he. Let this, howe'er, your mission seem to be. And keep concealed your object from his ken — To gain adherents there among his men ; For we, with these divided, ne'er can fail Success to reap when we his ranks assail. The diplomatic task with speed begin. And strive by words from anger these to win. Go seek the camp and turn our foes to friends. Be rich in promise, so to serve your ends. And scatter gold through all the hostile camp, Nor tardy be a wondrous tale to vamp Of Mexico — a great and dazzling prize — The fruit of our unrivalled enterprise — Whose like has ne'er in other lands been seen — And from its riches all who come can glean." Olmedo went, and served his leader well Ere out of favor he with Narvaez fell. Then he was seized and, guarded, sent away, No more within the hostile camp to pray. But ere he left he'd sown dissension's seeds, Which were anon to germinate in deeds. The new commander spurned his rival's claims, And uttered threats of sentence to the flames If Cortez bade defiance to his swa}^. But promised much if he'd his rule obey. II. To Tenochtitlan back Olmedo sped. And told to Cortez all that Narvaez said, i64 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And all he'd done adherent troops to gain — To serve the cause of Jesus, and of Spain. Then Cortez saw with some chagrin, and pain, In Tenochtitlan he must now remain To meet the onset of this daring foe, Or boldly to his camp — to battle — go. A scanty force had he to charge him there, But fruit Olmedo's words perchance would bear, And, though the bolder course, he'd this pursue. And Alvarado leave — a soldier true — "^ In Mexico the garrison to rule, And warn him to be prudent, firm, and cool. He left him forty and a hundred men f To guard the fallen monarch in his den, And overawe a nation prone to arms — A land already rife with wild alarms. The dike across the silent lake he trod, While prayers he breathed of gratitude to God. " I go," said he, " with scanty troops to fight In what I deem the sacred cause of Right. But sixty-nine intrepid souls have I With which imposing numbers to defy. Yet on their arms for triumph I rely. They're of my army's chivalry the bloom, And fear no more their foemen than their tomb. May Samson's strength to ev'ry arm be lent!" Great Montezuma with the Spaniards went In royal state beyond the city's gate, Then parted with no outward sign of hate, * Pedro de Alvarado, the Tonatiiih of the Mexicans. t In addition to this number of Spaniards there were left in the garrison on the departure of Cortez from the city of Mexico about 6,500 Tlascalans, and Cempoallans. He left about the middle of May, 1520, more than six months after his arrival there. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 165 Escorted to his. prison by his foes To meditate again o'er all his woes. III. Ere long Cholula met the Spaniards' view, And long-expected comrades near them drew. De Leon * first, then Sandoval, appeared. And loudly the approaching columns cheered. The little band now nigh quadrupled pressed Right on to meet the foe, nor paused for rest, But at the dead of night the camp surprised. And, rushing in, the troops demoralized. Then Narvaez, springing from his hammock bed, Was captive made, and up to Cortez led. " Surrender ! " was the victor's thrilling cry. And — *' We surrender ! " was the camp's reply. Thus many yielded quickly to the few, And in the fight but little blood they drew. The victors and the conquered one became, And followed Cortez, sharers in his fame. The vanquished leaders were alone consigned To such a fate as they'd for him designed. And sent to Vera Cruz in chains to toil. All helpless now his daring schemes to foil. Capricious Fortune played fantastic tricks, Nor slow was she the bitter draught to mix. Around them lay a region of delight Where earth and sky with tropic tints were bright. * Velasquez De Leon, who had previously been sent by Cortez to form a colony, with a hundred and twenty Spanish troops, joined Cortez at Cholula, and Sandoval, soon after- wards, with sixty men from the garrison at Vera Cruz. The army of Cortez now numbered two hundred and sixty-six men, five of whom were mounted. 1 66 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. To yellow cedars passion-flowers clung, And birds amid their wealth of verdure sung. Silk-cotton trees their lengthy branches spread Umbrella-like — fantastic — overhead, And threw around their buttresses to shield — The strangest forms in Flora's fertile field.* Macaws and parrots, rich in many a hue, Both in and out of leafy bowers flew. The monkeys frolicked in the almond-trees, And cherimoyas trembled in the breeze. Where water-lilies grew the heron soared, And pomegranate boughs revealed their hoard. While, far and near, a wealth of maize was seen, And here, and there, palmettos graced the scene. Ananas, and bananas — gold and green — In rich profusion, charmed the searching eye. And gorgeous insects wandered idly by To sip the nectar from the rose's bloom, And revel in the jessamine's perfume. The glossy-leaved magnolia arose. Its sweet and creamy blossoms to disclose, While mangoes waved among the nodding palms, And aromatic shrubs diffused their balms. The tamarind, with elephantine trunk, From all the wild-fig's close embraces shrunk. But shrank in vain : it climbed it to its crown, And, swaying in the wind, threw blossoms down. The land was clad with verdure to the shore. Where, too, a tinge of green the ocean wore, Though far away its color changed to blue. And on the line which bounded human view It softly blended with the bending sky. As deep and clear as indigo in dye. * The silk-cotton tree throws out its flat buttresses, and spreads its branches one or two hundred feet in diameter. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 167 IV. Across the mountain range the tidings flew — Which Cortez found were but, alas ! too true — That slaughter was in Tenochtitlan rife, And all the city filled with sounds of strife. He to the army's valor now appealed. And into line with one acclaim they wheeled — A thousand foot, a hundred horse, with spears, While martial music lulled their rising fears. On toward the mountains, looming high, they marched, And 'neath the burning sun with thirst were parched. At length they climbed the steep Sierra's slope, With wearied limbs, but full of ardent hope. And saw above them rise volcanic smoke, While on their view a charming prospect broke. Dark forests of the cedar and the pine. With here and there a cypress and a vine Around them grew ; through which they, now and then. Caught glimpses of a chasm, or a glen, Or sweeping valleys in the depths below. Refulgent with a semi-tropic glow. Then from the Cordillera's crest they gazed Upon a scene that all, with pleasure, praised. The broad expanse of country they had crossed Before them spread, till far away 't was lost In fair Cholula's plains of living green, While to the west the valley's charms were seen — Its lakes still trembling in the shining light. And on their bosom towns and hamlets, bright; — Its fanes surmounted by a gleam of fire, "^ * The teocallis had blazing fires on their summits night and dav. 1 68 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Sustained by hands that never seemed to tire ; — Its cultivated slopes and sombre hills, Its blooming orchards, and its sparkling rills ; While at their feet, 'yond groves of cypress, lay Tezcuco, t flashing in the beams of day. And in the distance Mexico reposed, Its varied splendors to the eye disclosed. As down the western slope the troops defiled, No longer on their ranks the natives smiled, For hatred and distrust inspired them all, And by their country they would stand or fall — Fight to repel the fierce invading foe. Whose deeds had plunged all Mexico in woe. No longer to their banner thousands flocked, And, there disporting, nigh their pathway blocked. A sullen silence ev'rywhere prevailed, Nor were they, as before, with cheer regaled. The people fled their presence, as a pest. By dark forebodings, wrath, and grief oppressed. So unopposed they gained the palace yard, Where Alvarado's troops were still on guard, Awaiting their commander's slow return With anxious hearts that never ceased to yearn. There Cortez sought the story of the strife, Which nigh had ended ev'ry soldier's life. The storm had for the moment lulled, but lo ! Like an avenging angel, sure if slow, Came Famine to destroy ; and slumb'ring fires Might soon — perchance — be turned to fun'ral pyres. t The city of Tezcuco, by which the Spaniards, on this occasion, entered the valley. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 169 VI, In Tenochtitlan one inspiring day — • When eartli was loaded with the bloom of May — The Mexicans had gathered in their fane, Where worshipped, too, the heroes born of Spain. A festival they'd met to celebrate — Mexitli's day — the war-god's solemn y?/. But we must hurl the monarch from his throne. And plant the Cross where infidels have reigned, And God, and all His works, on earth profaned ! We come, as His crusaders, to redeem The land from darkness, where the truth may beam. May Jesus help us to accomplish this. His will be done — our crown eternal bliss !" Brief, at Tacuba, was the army's stay, For danger would have followed on delay. And Cortez longed his camp, again, to greet. And there survey, with hopeful pride, the fleet. O'er flooded roads, while torrents fell, he passed, Till to Tezcuco's gates he came at last. And, as a brother, Sandoval embraced, Then cried — "Now on to Mexico we'll haste ! " Three weeks had flown since he the march began. And toward the bold Sierra led the van. The while beneath the builders' cunning hand. The brigantines were fitted, rigged, and manned, And made all ready for the golden tide, As for the bridal is the virgin bride. The circuit of the valley had been made, And now the time had come for the blockade. xn. But little Cortez thought of treason then, Among his soldiers and brave countrymen. Yet foul conspiracy, deejD-laid and dark, 274 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Which had his life, and others', for its mark — Beneath the tranquil surface lay concealed. 'T was only by an accident revealed : A conscience-stricken wretch confessed the plot, And saw its leader* hung upon the spot. The rest of these conspirators were spared, t And in the future battles gladly shared, Though by their guilt they merited the fate Which doth on mutineer, and traitor wait ; But Cortez deemed his Spanish troops too few — In view of all the work he had to do — For more to fall by his avenging hand. He needed all, to devastate the land ! And while his foes in camp his murder planned, His enemies in Cuba and in Spain His downfall sought, nor seemed to seek in vain, But time, and distance, proved a double shield To one who marched to conquest in the field, And in the end their machinations failed, And Cortez as a conqueror was hailed. xni. The morning of the launch was fair and bright, And all the army hailed it with delight. To Cortez 't was a solemn, great event — First of its kind upon the continent — X And in its celebration Mass was said, * Antonio Villafana, a common soldier who came over with Narvaez. He was hung from the window of his quarters. t Cortez did not even intimate to them that he was aware of their complicity in the plot to assassinate himself, and his officers, but during the rest of the campaign he was provided with a bodj'guard of trusty Castilians. % The first navy worthy of the name ever launched upon American waters. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 275 While banners to the winds were gayly spread, And on the air the cannon loudly boomed, As if to say that Mexico was doomed. Then, one by one, before rejoicing eyes — Amid a chorus of exulting cries — The stately vessels glided toward the lake, With silver ripples sparkling in their wake. Down the canal, for half a league, they sped Ere they were to the lake's broad waters wed. * Then, with expanded wings, to catch the breeze, They sailed as proudly as if on the seas, With music, and with musketry, and cheers Resounding in a hundred thousand ears. 'T was then that Spanish breasts with rapture swelled. And Cortez conquest, in his fleet, beheld. And all an anthem sang with one accord — The grand 2e Deiwi—gioxy to the Lord. XIV. Before the camp the forces, now, were massed. And in review— by Cortez eyed— they passed, t When he harangued them in a stirring strain : — "Brave soldiers of the Cross, and sons of Spain, * This event took place on the 2Sth of April, 1521, the troops being drawn up under arms, and the whole population gathered to witness the ceremony. The canal, half a league in length, twelve feet wide and as many deep, was a work of immense labor, having occupied eight thousand men nearly two months. Its sides were strengthened by palisades of masonry and timber, and it was furnished with dams and locks, and cut through hard rock, at intervals. t The Spanish portion of the army now numbered eight hundred and eighteen foot, of which a hundred and eighteen were arquebusiers, and crossbowmen, and eighty-seven cavalry— a force larger than had gathered at any time since 276 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. I've brought you to the wished-for goal at last, Through stormy scenes, and perils that are past ! The gates of Mexico we'll soon assail, Nor to subdue the city can we fail. For — God-defended — we are strong, and bold. Our present, and our former state behold ! The Providence that rules in this we see ! Thanks to a watchful, guiding deity ! Less than a year ago we fled pursued. With broken ranks, in melancholy mood, And refuge sought from our exultant foes, To find in Tlascala, at length, repose. How they contrast — our fortunes then, and now! Ne'er to the infidel our arms shall bow ! Of future triumphs, past achievements tell. Who doubts that all, with us, will prosper well ? The battles of the faith we're here to fight. And spread abroad the holy Gospel's light ! We fight, too, for our honor, and revenge — We, yet, have much, in duty, to avenge — For riches, and for glory, and renown, The Christian Cross, and the Castilian crown ! I've brought you to your foe, now, face to face. 'T is yours to triumph o'er the Aztec race. And gain, by conquest, all this smiling land. Go then, and reap ! the harvest lies at hand ! " There came, in answer, acclamations loud From all the Spaniards in that warlike crowd. Who cried — " Hurrah ! for Cortez 1 Only lead, And we will do whate'er may be decreed." the flight from Mexico under the banner of Cortez. The artillery consisted of three large iron fieldpieces, and fifteen lighter guns of brass. Three hundred Spaniards were detailed to man the brigantines, and each brigantine carried a piece of heavy ordnance. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 277 Then Cortez thus his officers addressed, And, with his daring spirit, all impressed. " In three divisions, let the army fight. * While Alvarado will command the right — His quarters at Tacuba, by the dike, Where with advantage he, the foe, can strike — The left will be by Sandoval employed. From Chalco he his native troops will guide To Iztapalapan, and there destroy Whatever in the future might annoy ; And Olid will the third division lead To Cojo-hu-a-can, and' there await The proper moment to co-operate With Sandoval, and Alvarado, who With him, in concert, will the fight renew — While I upon the lake will guide the fleet. And overwhelm the Aztecs with defeat. By one day's march the allies will precede The Spanish troops, for longer rest they need. The time has come for them to forward go, And help to lay their ancient tyrants low. Their eighty thousand arms will not in vain, For freedom strike, and their adopted Spain." XV. The bravest chieftain of the Land of Bread, f Who first had filled the Spanish troops with dread, When on the plains of Tlascala he fought, And in their ranks unlooked-for havoc wrought. Deep hatred for them, still, in secret, felt, * Alvarado's division included 30 horse, 168 Spanish infantry and 25,000 Tlascalans; Sandoval's 24 horse, 167 infantry and 30,000 mixed allies, and Olid's y^ horse, 178 infantry, and 20,000 Tlascalans. t Xicotencatl of Tlascala. 278 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Though he, a convert, 'neath the Cross had knelt. He loathed the war, though holding a command, And mourned — how sadly ! — o'er his fated land. 'T was he who in the councils of the State Had warned his elders, ere it seemed too late. To drive the white invaders from the soil. Ere they, by them, were doomed to fight, and toil. But they the young hot-blooded chief reproved. And all his angry counsel disapproved. This chieftain from the camp his army led, And to the breeze his native banner spread, But when it halted for the night he said — " Against this warfare I rebel at heart. And wish no more in such to act a part. I, with a chosen few, will homeward hie. But ye can forward march to fight, and die ! " So saying he departed on his way, And Cortez learned the tidings with dismay, And sent some friendly natives to pursue, And urge him to his army to be true. But he refused to all they said to list. And in his purpose vowed that he'd persist. Then Cortez cried — "I'll take him by surprise ; A troop of horse shall seize him as he flies ! " 'T was done, and, to the camp he, captive, came. Where he was told his sentence, and his shame. A gallows was erected in the square,* And he was led, and executed, there. His wealth was confiscated to the Crown, And ignominy covered his renown. Thus perished one who'd glorified his State — A hero who deserved a nobler fate, Who spurned at heart the fierce, invading horde. * Fronting the camp at Tezcuco. No disturbance followed the execution. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 279 That carried devastation with the sword, And loved his country, hating these its foes, Foreseeing, in their train, its endless woes. If all had, like him, with prophetic eye, Seen ruin follow when they ventured nigh, And felt the courage that imbued his breast. Not Cortez thus would have their land oppressed, Nor that proud Aztec empire passed away. Like morning mist before the beams of day. PART TENTH. The moving army met the monarch's eyes, And well he watched the martial enterprise — Watched ev'ry movement with untiring gaze, And planned its sore defeat in divers ways. He saw Don Olid Alvarado, meet. While standing in his eyrie-like retreat, And then upon Chapultepec advance. There, to the aqueduct, he turned his glance, And saw the Spanish troops his own attack. And drive them, in the battle, further back, Then cut the pipes that led to Mexico, Which made the city's fountains cease to flow ; Nor e'er again the sparkling fluid ran Through these, to satisfy the thirst of man. While that great monument of art, and skill. Which crowned Chapultepec's dark cypressed hill. Was left dismantled at the victor's hands. And crystal floods escaped among the sands. He saw the two commanders, lead the way, And storm the fatal dike, and heard the fray, 28o THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. But though they battled hard 't was all in vain The causeway's nearest bridge they strove to gain. He saw his hosts upon the lake and dike, With valor, and determination strike, And then repulse, with slaughter, all their foes, While deadly were their well-directed blows. He saw those foes, discomfited, depart For shelter to their camps, two leagues apart. And thanked Mexitli for this battle won. And prayed that thus henceforth the tide would run. The while the troops of Sandoval had gained The streets of Iztapalapan, and stained With blood, anew, the city, sacked before. Ere in revenge, 't was deeply flooded o'er : And there they paused, awaiting the command To further ravage the benighted land. II. The brigantines now glided o'er the lake, JEach leaving silver bubbles in its wake, While on the shore the natives gazed with eyes That eloquently told their great surprise. Each craft to them was like a thing of life, — Some white-winged demon on a sea of strife, — Which called the winds to aid it in its flight, And bore the white men on its breast to fight. How wondrous to their vision was the sight ! . As this flotilla passed a rocky height, A cloud of missiles from its summit fell, While echoed through the chasms yell on yell. There Cortez landed, climbed the steep ascent — On punishing his foes, audacious, bent — And to the sword the garrison consigned, Then, with his troops, his fleet, in triumph, joined. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 28 1 The waters of the lake were swarmhig now With war-canoes, well manned from stern to bow, Each paddling toward the brigantines with speed — The Aztec's never-failing water-steed. A calm prevailed, but suddenly a breeze, As welcome as 't was e'er in tropic seas. Caressed the bosom of the shining lake. Which seemed from dreamy slumber to awake, And breathed new life into the listless sails, While wafting perfume from the hills and dales. The brigantines, in line of battle, flew Before this Providential * wind, that blew, And overturned, by hundreds, the canoes, And helpless swimmers left their dusky crews. The brigantines their fatal volleys fired, And as they fired the fleeing foe expired. But few escaped of all the Aztec fleet, For they were intercepted in retreat. The brigantines borne onward by their wings — Which to the foe were strange, and wondrous things — Gave chase, like eagles pouncing on their prey, And easy was the task to crush, and slay. Defeat so utter greater seemed than aught That Cortez yet, in Mexico, had wrought, And ever after, o'er this inland sea, He ranged in undisputed mastery. III. The twilight, with its shades, the prospect veiled As, when the fight was o'er, the squadron sailed Along the southern causeway, to the west, * So considered by Cortez, who, like his age, was super- stitious. 282 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And found at anchor, nigh to Xoloc, rest.* There, where the smaller joined the larger dike. Two ston}^ turrets rose up fortress-like. And wider grew the causewa}^ Cortez cried — " This suits me well, and I will here abide. The garrison I'll quickly put to flight, And pitch m\^ camp within their walls to-night ! " When on the causeway shone the morrow's sun. It showed the work of Cortez had been done. The cannon from the fleet were landed there, And in position placed, with skill and care. Of Olid's troops, one half were ordered on. And messengers to Sandoval had gone Commanding him to haste, with all his force. To Olid's camp, and by the straightest course. f The Aztecs now discovered, but too late, Here lay the key to Tenochtitlan's gate, And stormed the camp with fury, night and day, To drive the hated Spanish troops away. The lake again was dark with war-canoes, All filled with yelling, fierce, and fighting crews, Who, on the side where lay the Spanish fleet. Kept at a distance, mindful of retreat, But on the other, with the dike between. Close ventured, and attacked with savage mien, And with their missiles wrought such havoc, rude, * Xoloc was that point of the great southern causeway, extending from the city of Mexico to the mainland, where it was joined by a branch causeway from Cojohuacan, and was situated half a league from the capital, and nearly midway in Lake Tezcuco between the city and the shore. The towers referred to were fortresses surrounded by stone walls, and occupied by an Aztec garrison. t Olid was stationed at Cojohuacan, near the shore end of the causeway leading to the spot occupied by Cortez, so that the latter through him could obtain supplies from the sur- rounding country. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 283 That Cortez through the dike a channel hewed, Through which two brigantines in safety passed, And so no more the foe the camp harassed. IV. The two great highways, now, to Mexico — Those west, and south — were wrested by her foe. A third remained, upon the northern side, The dike of Tep-e-jac-ac, long, and wdde. Thence Alvarado from Tacuba went. And bravely fought, and scaled each battlement, Till, on the dike, he, in his camp, reposed, With all the causeways to the city closed. Not more complete the blockade could have been, And Quahtemozin saw it with chagrin ; But Cortez, not content with this alone, More quickly sought the monarch to dethrone, And, to surrender, Tenochtitlan force ; So to the march again he'd swift recourse. V. Once more at dawn the Spanish troops arose, And, under arms, prepared to meet their foes. The solemn, stately, and imposing Mass — No morn without it was allowed to pass — Was then performed to reverential ears, And from believing minds it banished fears, For to their faith the sons of Spain were true. Yet wickedness they practised, daily, too. The Spanish chieftain marched before the van, Along the dike, which to the city ran. Designing Tenochtitlan to attack And leave a line of ruin in his track. Ere long he halted at a bridgeless breach, 284 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Where, on the other side, beyond his reach, A solid rampart rose to screen his foes, Who yelled defiance as they struck their blows. The Spaniards fought, but to dislodge them failed Till on each side a brigantine assailed. The Aztecs, then, retreated from the fire, Though not till racked and rent by carnage, dire, And from the brigantines the soldiers leapt, And in pursuit along the causeway swept. While Cortez, and his comrades swam the space, And followed, close behind them, in the race. Till to another open breach they came. There foes again from ramparts took their aim, And those pursued, behind them shelter found. Each swam the gap as swiftly as a hound, While Aztec arrows thickly flew around. The brigantines again were brought to bear. And musketry, and cannon thundered there Until the place was captured as before Amid the battle's cries, and angry roar. Thus breach on breach was carried to the end. The Aztecs, eager, each one, to defend. The victors, in their course, the ramparts razed, And massive stones from out the dike were raised, With which they filled the chasms in their way, A source, as they progressed, of much delay ; But in the end the capital was gained. And Aztec blood again its precincts stained. VI. They now were in the same broad avenue As they, on coming first, paraded through. When Montezuma welcomed them in peace, And they from warfare found a brief release. It crossed the city, running north to south — THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 285 *T was known to all as Tenochtitlan's mouth — And straight, and wide, with buildings lined, it ran. In triumph, Cortez forward led the van. With combatants the roofs were covered o'er, Whose missiles through his ranks in torrents tore. While in the distance dusky masses thronged To fight the foe, for whose defeat they longed, And who, so foully, had their country wronged. " Destroy the buildings ! " was the stern command. And to obey each soldier raised his hand. The allies who had labored on the dike. And filled the chasms, now were first to strike. For to Destruction's work they gladly sprang. And shrill, and loud, their savage war-cries rang. The Spanish troops advanced ; the foe retired. But turned at times, and on their foemen fired. A wide canal, across the street, at length Gave to the fleeing Aztecs fleeting strength. They crossed in safety, and the bridge destroyed, And screened by ramparts, on the other side. Their missiles showered, and pursuit defied; But when the heavy guns were brought to play They opened for the musketry a way : The breach grew wider, and they fled the fray. And those who'd stood for two long hours at bay Crossed o'er the stream, and followed up the chase Until they'd reached their former camping-place — The square where, erst, their palace-barracks lay, From which they fled to suffer fresh dismay On that wild night of carnage on the dike. For that in vengeance they had yet to strike. On one side Montezuma's palace stood, And on another rose that scene of blood — The war-god's mammoth pyramidal fane. Which though by fire assailed, and filled with slain, Still reared its mighty figure to the skies — 286 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Like Cheops, which both Time and man defies — Surrounded by a wall* and lesser fanes, Or of those sacred places, the remains. The Spaniards halted as they faced the view. They felt this second advent they might rue, ButCortez gave his well-known battle-cry — " St. Jago ! Comrades, let us at them fly, Ere they can rally ! " and he waved on high His own true sword, while with the other hand He grasped his target, leading his command. And took them boldly through the temple's gate Where fled the Aztecs to escape their fate, P'or they with terror there beheld their foe Again the scourge of hapless Mexico. The frantic priests, with cries, and gestures wild, From terraces upon the temple piled — Which round it, in their convolutions, coiled — Urged on their people to the deadly fray, And chanted in their ears some v^'arlike lay. A squad of Spaniards by their chieftain led. Up to the terraced temple's summit sped. And from the heights the priests, in fury, threw, And all beside within its cloisters slew. The holy cross, and symbols, they had placed Within its waMs, could nowhere, now, be traced. But where they'd once the war-god overthrown, Another idol occupied a throne. Rich in barbaric ornament, and bright With sparkling gems — a strange, fantastic sight. The Christians laid it low with fierce delight. And then rejoined their comrades massed below, As on them sprang the wildly-maddened foe. * The coatepantli, or wall of serpents, which enclosed the great teocalli, and its extensive array of religious edifices. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 2S7 The sacrilegious outrage on their fane — The spectacle of priests, and teachers slain — The desecration of their sacred shrine, Led all as one with fury to combine, And, with a yell of frantic horror, rush The panoplied iconoclasts to crush. These, taken thus by storm, in sad surprise Awoke the echoes with their battle-cries. And desperately fought to stem the tide, But by the torrent they were forced aside. Or trodden down, and many, fighting, died. They backward fell, disordered, to the square, But legions, fresh, gave battle to them there. And ere they rallied they were put to flight 'Mid Aztec yells of triumph, and delight. Their cannon they abandoned to the foe. And reeled as if beneath a crushing blow. The allies, caught the panic as they fled, And through their ranks confusion quickly spread, While from the house-tops missiles thickly flew. And blinded those retreating to the view, And hard it was to single foe from friend. While harder still they found it to defend. 'T was all in vain that Cortez cried aloud To that excited, and retreating crowd. His voice was in the stormy uproar drowned. The torrent swept in fury all around, And all seemed lost indeed when— lo ! — he heard Approaching sounds that all his feelings stirred. The tramp of horses, swiftly drawing near. Fell like enchanting music on his ear. And, with delight, he saw the troop advance. And deal destruction with the sword, and lance. They charged where they their foemen thickest found. And trampled them by hundreds on the ground, 288 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. While they with terror all the Aztecs filled, And strewed their path with wounded, and the killed ; For though so few, gigantic they appeared To those who horse and rider doubly feared. With superstitious, and o'erwhehning dread. They from their fierce assailants turned, and fled. And panic through the Aztec legions spread. Then Cortez rallied his retreating troops. Formed into battle-line disordered groups, And joined his horsemen in a swift pursuit. The Aztecs with a mighty yell, and hoot, Rushed through the temple gates in wild retreat, And in confusion down the stately street. While Cortez, in possession of the square,"* Recaptured all the guns he'd planted there. The hour of vespers had already come. And from the trumpet, and resounding drum. There sounded the loud summons to return. In this the army safety could discern. For night would soon o'ertake them, and 't were vain To longer in the battling throng remain. The Aztecs followed as they marched aw^ay. And left them disappointed of their prey. And filled the air with cries, and bowlings wild, When toward the dike, in order, they defiled ; But all their missiles failed to turn the tide, And Spain again all Mexico defied. The camp at Xoloc was regained at length, And wearied Nature sought in slumber strength. The tiano-uez. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 289 VII. In Tenochtitlan rage, alarm, and gloom, This shadow of a dark, impending doom, Stirred all the city to its inmost core ; And Quahtemozin's heart, with grief, was sore. Of what avail had his defences been. The Valley's Queen,* from fresh assault, to screen ? Surprise, and disappointment, he expressed, But patriotic ardor warmed his breast. He still would battle to defeat the foe. Nor cease to fight while he could strike a blow. Deep consternation through the city spread. While all the country round was filled with dread. And some who unto him before were true — t The chiefs of places distant to his view — Now to his foes, for friendship, sent to sue. Thus undermining, more, and more, his throne, And leaving him, the more, to fight alone. While adding fuel to Invasion's fire. And heaping up — alas ! — disasters dire. VIII. Tezcuco's prince % and fifty thousand braves. Prepared for battle, fearless of their graves, Now joined the camp of Cortez on the dike. " Such hosts," he cried, " must conquer when they strike!" To each division he assigned a third, * Tenochtitlan, or the city of Mexico. t The territory of Xochimilco, and several tribes of Oto- mies, dwelling on the western confines of the valley, among others. } Ixtlilxochitl, who had been placed on the throne of Tez- cuco by Cortez. 290 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And to this distribution none demurred. Then he a fresli assault, with method, planned, By which he hoped to triumph o'er the land. The three divisions under his command Were ordered to advance, before the foe Had well recovered from the latest blow, And so along the dikes which spanned the lake The martial lines were seen their way to take. The three long causeways Quahtemozin eyed, And o'er this fresh invasion sadly sighed. Yet to resist it all his forces massed. Determined to do battle to tlie last, And urged his troops to conquer, or to die. And ne'er from Spain's invading host to fly. IX. 'Twas with dismay that Cortez saw the foe Had cleared the breaches of the wreck below,* And through them left the floods again to flow. While each one, as before, was fortified, And held by troops, who bravely his defied. Once more all o'er the work had to be done. But breach by breach, the path was slowly won. The brigantines assisting on each side, And firing till the foe had fled, or died. 'Twas afternoon ere all the gaps were gained. And all alike with blood were deeply stained. Then Cortez to the city led the way, His forces eager to renew the fray, For they like bloodhounds were for blood athirst. And deemed their foes, as infidels, accurst: Yet, step by step, they found their march opposed, * About two-thirds of their number had been thus restored to their previous state by the Aztecs. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 291 So well the hostile legions were disposed, And with such resolution they were armed ; But death the bravest of the brave disarmed. In anger Cortez reached the open square, While cries of hate, and triumph filled the air. The war-god's sacred pyramid rose high, Beneath the splendor of the beaming sky. And the low range of palace buildings lay * As when they held all Mexico at bay. The ancient palace was the nation's pride, Within whose walls great Montezuma died. And to destroy it Cortez, now, desired. "Apply the torch ! " he cried, and it was fired. While, from within, the lurid flames escaped, The city with a pall of smoke was draped. And while to ashes fell the blazing pile, The face of Cortez wore a bitter smile. The burning ruins, crashing, reached the ground, And Tenochtitlan mourned to hear the sound. All save the stone-work vanished from the view, While clouds of dust far o'er the city flew. The House of Birds, f which, too, adorned the square. Was quickly made its fiery fate to share; And all its feathered captives perished there. Save some that from their burning prisons broke, And soared through the ascending flame, and smoke — Their plumage gay with yellow, red, and green — * The old palace of Axayacatl, formerly the Spanish bar- racks. t It was a light and elegant building, of wood and bamboo, standing near Montezuma's palace on the side of the square which was opposite to the barrack-palace just destroyed, and contrasting with the heavy stone buildings around. It con- tained specimens of all the richly-plumaged birds found in and near Mexico. 292 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Then hovered far above the troubled scene, And, screaming, to their native forests, fled, Of man, and fresh captivity, in dread. With horror, and chagrin, the Aztecs gazed Upon the buildings as they brightly blazed, And hatred into savage fury swelled As they, their foes, the Tlascalans, beheld, The work of desolation urging on ; And with them fighting, as if both were one, Their neighbors the Tezcucans, forward led By one of yore in Tenochtitlan bred,* " False-hearted traitor ! " from the roofs, they cried, " Who thus would fight on the invaders' side I False to thy country, to thy race untrue, For ever hide thy visage from the view ! " But taunts like these, though full of wrath and gall. Seemed lightly on the chieftain's ear to fall. And he his way with resolution held. Though kinsmen round him — " Traitor ! traitor ! '* yelled. Ambition had his love of country killed. And, by success, remorse in him was stilled. His aim was now fresh infamy to earn. It was, he knew, too late to backward turn. X. In vain the havoc Cortez wrought was done : — No triumph, by the flames, his arms had won. His foes were lashed to fury by the fire. And meditated vengeance, deep, and dire, And hurled their missiles with still deeper hate. At those who came to burn, and desecrate. * The young prince Ixtlilxochitl. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 293 The Spanish leader, disappointed, sighed To see how boldly they his arms defied, And gave the trumpet-signal to retreat. For dying day was speeding night to meet. The Aztecs on his army wildly sprang, And loudly through the air their voices rang, As toward the causeway the invaders turned, And madly they for Spain's destruction yearned. They closely followed the receding rear. And bravely fought with arrow, sling, and spear, While, when the horsemen turned to drive them back. They desperately parried each attack, And tried to tear the riders from their steeds. Not more heroic could have been their deeds ; They gave their lives to strike a single blow, Content to die if they could smite the foe. They threw themselves beneath the horses' feet. The better, thus, the horsemen to defeat. And none that night the camp at Xoloc gained Whose garments by his wounds had not been stained. XI. 'T was well that while the conflict here was waged The Aztecs, at the dikes were, too, engaged, Where Sandoval, and Alvarado fought — But, vainly, to advance to Cortez sought — For, thus divided, Cortez found his foe Less able to inflict a deadly blow. Yet Cortez though so savagely assailed — While to induce surrender he had failed — Determined to continue his attacks. Nor for a day his enterprise relax. The morning saw his troops advance, in force ; The evening saw them backward take their course. And, under cover of the shades of night. 294 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. The Aztecs labored with persistent might To clear the breaches the invaders filled, And new defences on their banks to build.* Thus o'er, and o'er again, the work was done, And neither seemed a triumph to have won. The three divisions daily tried to meet, But all their efforts ended in retreat. In vain they rest, in storm and darkness, sought: By night as well as day the Aztecs fought.t The three divisions were, at once, assailed. And neither side, in making havoc, failed. The day and night alike were battle-stained, And yet no conquest the invaders gained. The bleak, and rainy, season of the year % Afforded little that the heart could cheer, As shelterless the troops in camp reposed, And on their arms their weary eyelids closed ; Prepared to rise to Battle's trumpet call. And into line, with martial ardor, fall. Three months of stern privation, toil, and strife, § * Alvarado guarded the breaches in the dike he occupied at night, and so saved this endless labor, but Cortez said that this duty was beyond the strength of men engaged in such arduous service "^during the day as were those of his own division. t This was contrary to the previous habits of the Aztecs. Their forces moved at night from different points in concert, at the signal of a beacon-fire, or the war-god's drum. X From July to September. § Prescott says that the surface of the causeways, flooded by the storms, and broken up by the constant movement of large bodies of men, was converted into a quagmire, which added inconceivably to the distresses of the army. Diaz, who served in Alvarado's division, remarks : " Through the long night we kept our dreary watch, neither wind, nor wet, nor cold availing anything. There we stood, smarting from the wounds received in the fight of the pre- THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 295 While in iheir ranks disease, and death were rife — Thus, on the causeways, slowly passed away, And Mexico still held them all at bay ; But Famine, by degrees, was stealing in, And, in the end, its victory would win. Already 'twould have devastation wrought Had not canoes the country's products brought By stealth, in darkness, from the friendly shore — A source which, now, would yield, but little more. For as the country round renounced its sway This succor, with its sources, passed away : But though the ancient trunk its branches lost — Nipped by Invasion's blight, and killing frost — It still defied the storm that raged around. And — firmly rooted — bravely held its ground. Not only on the land the contest raged. For war upon the water, too, was waged. Where stratagem supplied the place of force — In Aztec arms a favorite resource. Thus, once in ambuscade canoes were laid. Where reedy thickets hid them in their shade, While piles were driven in the shallows near ; Then boats decoyed the brigantines, that here Became entangled in the trap below. When from the ambush shot the angry foe. And on the brigantines fell blow on blow. Nigh all on board were wounded ; some were slain. And Cortez heard the tidings, sad, with pain. vious day. In short so unintermitting were our engage- ments, both by day and by night, during the three months we lay before the capital, that to recount them all would make the reader fancy he was perusing the incredible feats of a knight-errant of romance." 296 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. XII. The cities, which had Spain's protection sought, Now, to his camp their warlike legions brought, "^ Who bravely with their brother allies fought. And at each dike, like demons, havoc wrought. Supplies were gathered from the country round. And in abundance maize, and fruits were found. The allies oft — if history be true — Their bodies nourished with the foes they slew, While in the ancient city Aztecs ate The immolated victims of their hate ; And this with holy zeal, and solemn show, For their religion — woeful ! — taught them so. f Alas 1 that stain so foul, on face so fair, Should e'er have marred the lines of beauty there. The storm around the city gathered force, But Quahtemozin swerved not from his course, And with undaunted courage faced the foe, Resolved to rise or fall with Mexico. He saw his vassals to the stranger turn — The sway of their declining empire spurn ; He saw his city wasted day by day. His armies decimated by the fray. And night illumined by the glaring light Of burning buildings — an appalling sight; *To the number, according to Cortez, of a hundred and fifty thousand. t The Aztecs did not, however, partake of human flesh to gratify a depraved animal appetite, but in obedience to the behests of their religion, and their cannibal repasts were con- fined to the bodies of those who had perished on the altar of sacrifice at the hands of the priests, who having gashed their prostrate victims' breasts with a sharp razor, inserted their hands and drew forth the quivering hearts, which they held aloft to the Sun. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 297 He Pestilence, and Famine, saw advance, Each armed, by Death, with a destroying hmce, But all the horrors of the siege grew dim In his fierce hatred of his foemen, grim. That hatred served to fire the drooping heart. To wing the arrow, and to point the dart. And Quahtemozin, still, for vengeance cried, And all the legions of his foe defied. XIII. Impatience in the Spanish camp prevailed. While all, the rigors of the siege, bewailed. And deemed their lot was harder than the foe's. "Cut short," they cried to Cortez, "these our woes, And let us in the city deal our blows — There have our camp, and nightly court repose ; Our conquest sooner we can there achieve. And gladly we these roofless dikes will leave." To please his comrades Cortez gave assent, And with rejoicing cheers the air was rent. " Prepare ye then to make a grand attack. And if ye, to the dikes, are driven back, Lay not to me, but to yourselves, the fault Of making what I deem a rash assault. Advance not where ye cannot well retreat, For Aztec foemen, as ye know, are fleet ; Fill all the gaps, and breaches, as ye go. And stand prepared for ev'ry sudden blow. The three divisions will together strike. And each in concert move along its dike,* All aiming in the market-place to meet, And resolute the heathen to defeat ! " * Sandoval was, however, ordered to remove most of his forces from the northern causeway, and join Alvarado. 298 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Thus Cortez spoke, and dawned ere long the day On which his troops were marshalled for the fray. The ne'er omitted morning Mass was said Ere they were forward, to the city, led. The brigantines advancing at their side. With native boats which through canals could glide, All armed, and manned, to pierce that city's heart, And through its water highways swiftly dart. The suburbs, which had oft with gore been stained. In safety by the Spanish chief were gained. Thence to the market square ^ three roads appeared, And, quickly, into these a way was cleared. Thus one division into three was formed. While stones, and arrows, on the army stormed. On either side the wadest road there ran A deep canal, of nigh as great a span. And through it breaches, here and there, were made. Through which the troops, advancing, had to wade, For all the bridges had been torn away. The movements of the army to delay. The squadron that along this road defiled t Grew with success, and carnage, rash and wild, And, like the wind, pursued the flying foe. While the canoes to follow were not slow. They paused not bridgeless breaches to repair. Nor deemed how soon they'd prove a fatal snare : They only cared to reach the market square. Of all their comrades in advance they swept, And ev'ry gap they found they swam, or leapt. The goal for w^hich they longed was nearly gained, And each canal with Aztec blood was stained, * The Square of Tlatelolco, the largest open space in the city, and the market for its supplies. t This was commanded by Alderete, the royal treasurer, an officer of much distinction. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 299 When Cortez, who another squadron led, Was by this rapid movement filled with dread. He, as he went, had all the breaches closed, But those in whom he'd confidence reposed Did not, he feared, this weighty duty heed. Why fled the foe with such uncommon speed, If not his forces to destruction lead ? Surprise, and stratagem, might havoc work, And in success, disaster here might lurk. His troops were halted, while he crossed to view The dike-like street, so swiftly hurried through. There — to his consternation — open lay The breaches, left unclosed to save delay. A chasm, wide, his further progress stayed, While by a sudden sound he stood dismayed. 'T was of a distant conflict, loud and fierce. Which seemed alike the earth and sky to pierce, And yells, and war-cries, o'er the clamor rose. The Aztecs — lo ! — had turned upon their foes. And toward the breach the tide of battle rolled. There Cortez stood, and with him some as bold, Who strove the breach to fill, but strove in vain Ere he beheld with growing fear and pain, A rushing, roaring multitude advance. He read the dreadful story at a glance. Just then the blast of Quahtemozin's horn Awoke the echoes of the tragic morn, And seemed with savage fury hosts to fire. Who wreaked on the invaders vengeance, dire. On came the Spanish troops in headlong haste, By countless maddened Aztecs hotly chased, All surging in the battle's deadly throes, And, mingled in confusion, friends, and foes. Fresh Atzec legions poured upon the scene. And none more stormy Cortez e'er had seen ; But bravely, with his comrades, at the breach 300 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. He stood a helping hand, across, to reach, And horror-stricken at the waste of life Involved in this, to him, disastrous strife. He saw his soldiers' blows at random fell, While their assailants made their weapons tell, And from the house-tops blinding volle3's flew, And many of the flying squadron slew, Who in their rout each other trampled low. And, like a torrent, flew before the foe. Into the chasm * plunged the foremost files — The victims of the Aztecs' fatal wiles — And one another trod beneath the flood. Which soon was crimsoned with their ebbing blood. Some strove, but vainly, o'er the gulf to swim, While some reeled backward from the chasm's brim, Or from its glassy, and deceptive, tide, And in its troubled waters, mangled, died ; Some over heaps of fallen comrades passed, And some into the foes' canoes were cast. And to the fanes, in triumph, borne away For immolation — yea, Mexitli's prey. But at the breach still Cortez stood, to save. And rescued hundreds from a yawning grave. And many from the captive's awful fate. While striving hard the panic to abate.t Yet vainly to the fugitives he called ; They fled, confused, distracted, and appalled. Darts, stones, and arrows thickly fell around. But these no entrance in his armor found. And from his polished helmet glanced aside. * It was ten or twelve paces wide, and filled with water, at least two fathoms deep, by which communication was estab- lished between the canals on either side of the dike-like road- way. t The breach at this spot was, subsequently, named by Cor- tez thepuente cuidada, or sorrowful bridge. THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO. 30 1 At length—" Malinche ! See ! " the Aztecs cried, And held two gory Spanish heads in view, While " Sandoval ! " and " Alvarado ! " too. They shouted as their trophies they displayed. And signs that both had perished thus they made. Which blanched the cheek of Cortez as he gazed, Alarmed, defiant, wond'ring and amazed. Then rushed they on him, like a hungry wolf. And dragged him down into the fatal gulf. And strove to place him in a war-canoe. To succor him — his faithful comrades flew. And in the struggle, fierce, their weapons drew. With sword, and lance, they ran assailants through, But for the contest they were nigh too few. Lo ! o'er his wounded, and his prostrate form, Those heroes fought amid the deadly storm, And rescued him, at last, from Death's embrace — A sign, to them, of sanctifying grace — Though of their number some there v/ere who fell — Slain, captured, wounded — where they strove so well. A steed was brought to Cortez, and he rode Along the miry and the crowded road. Pursued, on either side, by war-canoes. And pelted by the volleys from their crews. Who captured all that stumbled down the slope, And these forever bade adieu to hope. But one, who held the banner of Castile, Plied with such havoc his destroying steel As, from their clutches, freedom to regain, And shun the horrors of the war-god's fane. While with him he his country's standard bore — A tattered rag, bespattered with their gore.* A cry of disappointed rage arose * This was the ensign, Corral, who had slipped down into the canal. 302 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. At that glad moment from his baffled foes, For in the flag they saw, with longing eyes, A priceless trophy, and a splendid prize. At length the open city Cortez gained, And to his warlike purpose true remained. Behind the loud artillery he stood, And backward forced the wild, pursuing flood. And made the roadway red, with Aztec blood. Then rallied he his broken files, in haste, And with his horsemen, brave, his foemen faced, ^ And gave the trumpet-signal to retreat. To linger would, he knew, bring worse defeat. But he would yet the tide of triumph turn. And from the day's disaster wisdom learn. XIV. To Sandoval, and Alvarado — two As brave commanders as e'er weapons drew — He sent the dismal tidings of the day. And bade them to their causeways speed away ; But they already moved in full retreat, For, like their comrades, they had met defeat. All with their arms that morn had prospered well Till Quahtemozin's horn — a startling knell — Upon their senses from the temple fell. Then, though their goal — the market square — was near. And though they heard their distant comrades cheer. Their instincts told them they had much to fear, And ere the signal's echoes died away, They heard the sound of an appalling fray, * The cavalry had not been previously brought into action. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 303 While, with redoubled fury, on them rose Their erst retreating multitude of foes. The struggle lasted till the distant roar Grew faint as surf upon a stormy shore ; When, sudden as the lightning, legions new Broke, like a flood, upon their troubled view, And rushing forward cried " Malinche's dead !'* And on the pavement threw a gory head, Then sweeping, in a torrent, down the street, Compelled an instantaneous retreat, And followed in pursuit, with savage hate, Like an avenging Nemesis of fate ; Till back upon the dikes their foes retired. And from intrenchments there their cannon fired, Which swept the causeways, while the brigan tines Performed the part they played in former scenes. The xVztecs, from the guns, once more recoiled. And felt themselves for further havoc foiled. XV. The while the troops of Cortez in retreat. Again the causeway felt beneath their feet, While the pursuing legions here, at last. Before the ships, and cannon, stood aghast, And those who ventured on the dike were slain — Cut down as, by the sickle, is the grain. On high, in noonday splendor, shone the sun. And yet so much, that morning, had been done. Dejected, Cortez to Marina turned. For wisdom rare in her he'd oft discerned. " Alas ! Marina," mournfully he spoke, " To all your truths I have at last awoke. These Aztecs are unyielding as the grave, And of our allies none are half so brave. 304 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 'Tvvere vain to hope the city, now, to save. Ere we can conquer, we must raze it low. And bring to ashes haughty Mexico ! This grieves me much, for I would gladly spare The structures of a capital so fair. But, for the present, I must linger here, And look to thee for solace, help, and cheer. My wounds oppress me, and demand repose. 'T is well to rest from combat for awhile, And bask — how fondly ! — in thy sunny smile." Then to the camp there came, with flying speed. Well mounted on his faithful, foaming steed. The brave, heroic Sandoval we know, Who ne'er deserted friend, or shrank from foe. He came the tidings, sad, to glean, and tell, And learn if all had gone, with Cortez, well. The Aztec hosts had cried that he was slain, And through the army went a thrill of pain. " Don Sandoval," said Cortez to his friend, " You to the army, while 1 rest, attend, For Alvarado is I fear too brave. And I would save him from a captive's grave. These wounds of mine have crippled me so sore. That 1 can battle, ere they heal, no more. Our losses have been heavy, for the foe Struck, in his fury, a destructive blow, And sixty-two Castilians, alive. Now in the temple with their captors hive, Besides a multitude of allies, bold ; While killed, and maimed, in numbers yet untold, Fill up the measure of our sore reverse ; Yet thouo-h so bad it might have ended worse.* *Two field-pieces and seven horses also fell into the hands of the Aztecs on this occasion. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 305 'T was through a comrade's rashness all was done.* We but for this a triumph might have won. Still all is not by this disaster lost, Though much in life, and prestige, it has cost. We, by these dikes, the city still command. And Conquest, yet, will give us all the land ! So cheer thee up, my brave, heroic friend : The Lord of Hosts his servants will defend. For are we not crusaders of the Cross, Whose death would be the great Jehovah's loss ? " Then to his camp the rider hurried back. And, as he went, he braved each scout's attack. The sun still shone above the western heights, Recalling days of joy, and past delights, And o'er the splendid valley poured his beams, And made the temples gay with golden gleams, While all the towers glistened in his light. The city lay calm, beautiful, and bright. Contrasting with the sable scenes of strife, Which but that morn, within it, were so rife. The sun sank lower in the golden west ; The time drew near for vespers, and for rest. And far, and wide, a tranquil silence reigned, As if o'er all Queen Peace had sway regained. When suddenly was heard that awful sound. The war-god's drum, which rang the valley round. The horrors of the past were all recalled. And nigh the boldest of the bold appalled. t The startled soldiers to the temple turned. And winding up its mighty sides discerned * Alderete, the royal treasurer, who commanded the squad- ron between the canals. t This was the second time the great drum was heard by the Spaniards, the only other occasion being that of the noche t)'iste. 3o6 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. A long procession — for the air was clear, And distant figures seemed like objects near.* Some solemn act of Aztec faith, they knew Was now transpiring there, within their view. They needed not the captives, stripped, and white — To them a galhng, and impressive sight — To tell them of their comrades' mournful plight, And of the scene of sacrifice so drear. The thought of which, from many, drew a tear. They saw the captives, urged along by blows. And made to dance in concert with their foes. They saw them laid on — one by one — the stone. And, in imagination, heard them groan As, from their breasts, their bleeding hearts were torn. 'T was sad to see those war-worn heroes mourn As they beheld their fellow-soldiers' fate, Nor knew when such might e'en themselves, await. Each reeking heart was on the altar laid, While round it gory priests, with fervor, prayed Before their idol, gorgeously arrayed — The image of the Mars of Mexico — Mexitli, fatal to both friend, and foe.f To depths below the mangled forms were thrown. Where fierce fanatics claimed them for their own, And made a solemn feast of their remains, In honor of their deity, and fanes. The Aztecs near the dikes, united, rose, With frantic fury, to destroy their foes. When they the distant spectacle beheld. * Alvarado's camp was hardly a mile trom the city. t It was a part of the religious duty of the Mexicans to sac- rifice their own people on certain occasions, as well as their captured enemies, at the shrine of the war-god. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 307 And wildly charged, while they as madly yelled. " Death, thus, to all our enemies ! " they cried, And, sweeping on, the Spanish hosts defied. But these, not unprepared for their attack, With muskets, guns, and arrows drove them back. And, while the cannon thundered in the air. The Mexicans, abandoned to despair. Retreated — mangled — in their camp to grieve. And schemes of vengeance, in the future, weave. PART f:leventh. I. There followed now, five weary, strifeless davs, Save when the Aztecs turned from hymns of praise To make a sortie on their tranquil foes. Who sought, in peace, the healing balm repose. The Mexicans, elated with success, The while arrayed themselves in gala dress. And feasted, danced, and sung the time away, And with rejoicing made the city gay. But this glad jubilee, to Spanish eyes. Was like a flame that flickers ere it dies. II. Within the war-god's fane, the highest priest Predicted, as he closed the solemn feast — To cheer the monarch, and his soldiers, brave — That naught could, now, the Spanish forces save, And that Mexitli ere eight days were o^er. Would lead them captive, there to fight no more — Prophetic words the Aztecs all believed, 3o8 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And dreamed of conquest, and of peace achieved, And thundered the prediction to their foes, While aiming to destroy them with their blows. The oracle's prediction, like a knell Upon the native allies, fighting, fell. Their arms against their country's gods were raised. They read in all the beacon-fires that blazed The prophecy they felt would be fulfilled. What ground had they on which escape to build, Save by retreating from this failing cause, Which outraged all their liberties, and laws 1 In secret they resolved on speedy flight. And, under cover of the shades of night, They stole, in silence, from their camping-ground. And o'er the valley journeyed, homeward-bound. Thus troop by troop, deserting, disappeared Before the coming wrath — the doom they feared. Few^, now, of all the allied host remained, And o'er them — blighting courage — Terror reigned. Tezcuco's chief, and Tlascala's were true, But from their flags nigh all their troops withdrew. The breath of superstition, which they felt, Seemed, all the fabric they had raised, to melt, Like icicles that glisten in the sun, And then, invisibly, to water run. The Spanish soldiers saw, with sore dismay, The army of their allies pass away — The dusky troops on whom they'd long relied. And by whose numbers they'd their foes defied. The darkest hour, before the dawn, had come, And some grew sad, and silent as the dumb. To them the Spanish cause looked hopeless now. And to the storm they stood prepared to bow. Like brave men on a sinking ship, resigned — All at the mercy of the sea, and wind. Their ammunition, and supplies were low. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 309 And all around them, bristling, stood the foe. But, on the prospect, Cortez gazed, serene, And saw beyond the dark and troubled scene. The prophecy he treated with disdain, And on the dikes, defiant, would remain. But those deserting thus he feared would rise Ere long, against him, and his enterprise, And so, to urge them to return, and wait — And boldly share the Spanish army's fate, Till the predicted time had passed them by And proved the prophecy a priestly lie — He sent his trusty scouts, who pleaded hard, And promised, from disaster, all to guard : But vainly, now, those legions, they implored, Who cried — " Alas ! we perish by the sword ! " III. The Spanish arms were overcast by gloom, And many saw, in sacrifice, their doom. But though by wounds, and ceaseless vigils, tried, They steadfastly all Mexico defied. The Aztecs, by success, had daring grown. And felt their foes, as captives, soon would groan ; And day by day, in sorties, they essayed. Through Spanish blood, as victors proud, to wade. And sprang like tigers to the deadly fray. But ever by the guns were held at bay. Night after night the pealing drum awoke The echoes, and the sleepers, as it spoke In tones of thunder^ o'er the silent lake. While captives round the temple's walls would take Their mournful way to sacrifice, a fate. For them, most horrible to contemplate. * * The Aztecs sacrificed only a few of their captives at a 310 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. The light of countless torches on them gleamed, And through the fiery glare the pageant seemed A spectacle of horror, born of hell, Which made each Spanish breast with hatred swell. As from the camps the army eyed the scene With sad forebodings, and with deep shagreen. IV. The Spanish army constant were, and true, Nor faltered in the work they had to do. A brave example husbands found in wives Who in the battle's front exposed their lives — Brave heroines who with the camp had come. Prepared to follow — with their lords — the drum. And who, in time of need, Uke men would fight, And find, in martial deeds, a keen delight. * '^We Spanish wives our husbands love," they cried. " In danger, duty calls us to their side, With them to share it, and with them abide ! " Oft one of these her consort's armor wore — While he by slumber would his strength restore — And mounted guard where he had stood before. Another, like her, armed with sword, and lance, Once rallied routed squadrons with her glance. And led them backward great success to gain, Though in the struggle she — alas ! — was slain. time, and thus were enabled to lay fresh victims nightly on the altar of their war-god. Guzman, the chamberlain of Cortez, who was one of the last to perish, lingered eighteen days in captivity. * These were Castilian women, the wives of soldiers, who had accompanied the expedition when it sailed from Cuba. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 311 V. Though deep were their distresses, and their woes, The Spanish troops still boldly faced their foes ; Their cannon swept the dikes, and drove them back. With slaughter, to their camp, at each attack ; Still on the lake their brigantines were seen, Nor more severe the blockade e'er had been ; And while fallacious hopes the Aztecs buoyed, They saw gaunt Famine through their army stride, And, undisputed, in their city reign — A foe more fatal than the arms of Spain. VI. At length, the time predicted passed away, And still the Christians held their foes at bay. For these the prospect still more gloomy grew ; How false had proved their oracle, they knew. Yet they for peace, nor quarter e'er would sue, But battle bravely to the bloody end, And to the last their liberties defend. The chiefs who to the Spanish cause were true, * Now, to their banners, the deserters drew. And thousands of the allied host returned When they the priestly artifice discerned. To whom forgiveness Cortez freely gave, Though, as deserters, their offence was grave — And welcomed them, with gladness, to the lake. Where lay the fortunes of the war at stake. "They come," he cried, "as from the silent land, And here I see an all-protecting hand ! " * The Tezcucan and Tlascalan chiefs. 3 1 2 THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO. His army still was weak, but he was bold, And to his trusty comrades cried, " Behold ! Our distant allies for our aid appeal, And though so weak, our weakness to conceal, Two hundred of our bravest we can spare. To them, the succor which they need, to bear. The Aztec monarch has his allies there. Who fain would battle to restore his sway. These we can sweep like autumn leaves away. And when the Cross, and Crown, have won the day Our soldiers can return, with flying speed. To join the camp where we their valor need. To Sandoval this duty I assign. And let his days of absence be but nine.'^ * The work was. as commanded, bravely done. The Spanish heroes all their battles won. Laid waste the hostile regions where they fought. And to the camp their spoils, and trophies brought. There on their ears the welcome tidings fell That with the camp the while all prospered well, And that a vessel freighted with supplies, At Vera Cruz had cheered the watchers' eyes. She erst for blooming Florida had sailed, But winds and waves against her long prevailed, And when this port of refuge she had found. No more was she to Flora's region bound, For she was seized, and with her all she brought. No service she for Ponce de Leon wrought, Though all her f reightage with his purse was bought.f * Tapin was associated with Sandoval on this occasion, and with two hundred and eight Spanish troops, including twenty-eight cavalry, about equally distributed between them, they took opposite directions, and accomplished their pur- pose, returning within ten days. t The vessel was one of Ponce de Leon's fleet, and con- tained among her cargo an abundance of powder — what Cortez most wanted. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 313 Romantic knight, he cursed his luckless star, And all who dared his vessel's course to mar: But Cortez saw in this a watchful care, And, with his army, bowed the knee in prayer. Then, gladly, with rejoicings rent the air, And thanked the Lord for having sent her there, (With powder, too, of which he nigh was bare). " His eye," he cried, "is on us everywhere. And, 'mid our perils, we His mercies share ! " VH. 'T was now, with strength renewed, that Cortez rose Again to strike his sore beleaguered foes. But not as he had struck in days before. Where he of yore had spared he'd spare no more. "'Tis with reluctance, comrades," he exclaimed, As, to the army, he his plans proclaimed, "That I decree the city, waste be laid. For all its walls against us are arrayed, And all its bridges, and canals, are snares, Where we may be entangled unawares. The flooded depths with ruins we must fill And raze the buildings with determined will. Before advancing we must these destroy. For thus alone can horse and foot deploy ! And thus alone we can our foes disarm. And leave them impotent for further harm. Behold them still defiant, as of old — Undaunted by disaster, fierce and bold ! Such natures to submission ne'er will bend, While strength is left them still their foes to rend ; Nor can misfortunes crush them ere they die : They to the last will sound their battle-cry. And their young monarch peace and friendship spurns, 314 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And only for our capture vainl)^ 3'earns, All heedless of his train of future woes, And only burning to destroy his foes. Alas ! that Tenochtitlan, grand and great, Should meet with such a melancholy fate, And that a trophy, rich in wealth, and charms, Should thus be lost to our triumphant arms ! The stern necessity of war we see : — Go forth, and execute this hard decree I " VIII. The work of devastation then began, And Cortez labored, bravely, in the van. To ruins fell the structures in his way. While raged around a well-contested fray. For step by step his progress was delayed By squadrons in hostility arrayed. Canals, and breaches, turned to solid land, Beneath his strong, and desolating hand, And all the glory of the Valley's Queen, As he advanced, departed from the scene. The ray of promise, which had shed its light, And filled the Aztecs with profound delight. Was now succeeded by the gloom of night. More hopeless to their eyes the prospect seemed Because that ray had for a moment gleamed. But they with Hatred and Despair were armed, For these not foes, nor Famine, had disarmed, And with the fury born of passions wild, They fought, and, fighting, still those foes reviled. IX. One effort more still Cortez yet would make, The resolution of the kino; to break. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 315 Three captured nobles he, as envoys sent To beg that he'd to terms of peace consent, And further waste of Hfe, and wealth, prevent, Though with reluctance 't was that they obeyed. Their mission made them of their fate afraid. "Tell him that he," the Spanish chieftain spoke, " His evil fortune should no more provoke. All that he e'er can do, has, now, been done. And 3'et behold ! how soon will set his sun. His troops have bravely for their country fought, Yet see to what a pass at length they're brought ! What hope for him, and them, can, now, remain ? To battle longer would be worse than vain. He stands besieged, deserted, and alone. With all around him hostile to his throne — His ancient allies eager for his life. Can he survive on such a sea of strife .'' His safety only in surrender lies. Has he no feeling for what meets his eyes — His dying people, and these crumbling walls ? Has he no ear for Mercy when she calls .»* Let him allegiance to this flag proclaim, And I will greet him in my sov'reign's name, And write Forgiveness over all the past ; But — mark ! — this proffered pardon is my last. If 'tis, as here I tender it, embraced. The crimes of all the Aztecs are effaced. Their rights shall be respected as my own, And Quahtemozin still shall grace his throne ; But if rejected woe be unto ye ! For from impending doom ye ne'er can flee \ " The monarch heard the tale, with flashing eye, And cried — " Than thus surrender, I would die ! " But still he called a council of the wise. With whom he had no close, or kindred, ties, 3i6 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. To say what course his country should pursue. Like him they to their native land were true, But some to peace, and some to war were prone, And all the priests said — " Peace is good we own, But not with these invaders of our soil. Who come, alone, to vanquish, and despoil. Let us remember Montezuma's fate, And how ihey dragged him from his high estate, And paved his way with sorrows — captive, chained. Can we forget how they our shrines profaned. Or yet with slaughter all our city stained ? They've stripped its treasures from our bleeding land. And, now, surrender, to their arms, demand. No ! better it will be, our gods to trust, Than to be trampled deeper in the dust ; And better, battling for our country, die, Than with the wishes of our foes comply, And live henceforth in bondage and in pain. No ! we may yet our native land regain ! " '^ Since this is so," then Quahtemozin cried, " Let us to conquer, or to die, decide. And ne'er again of base surrender speak, But on our foes devouring vengeance wreak ; And if we ne'er can this our empire save. We still can perish as becomes the brave ! " X. The army on the dikes, in waiting, lay To hear what Quahtemozin, now, would say, And paused the while from havoc, and the fray, Till — on the morning of the second day — The answer came, but not in peaceful guise : And Cortez saw it with astonished eyes. 'T was sudden, and intended to surprise, THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 317 And Cortez cried — " He still our arms defies ! " On came the Aztec forces with a roar That sounded to the lake's remotest shore. Through all the city's gates the hosts advanced, And brightly in the sun their weapons glanced. On poured the mighty, and the swelling tide Whose course 'twas Quahtemozin's lot to guide — And stormed, with fury, the besieging foe, Who staggered — as they struck — beneath the blow. By numbers overwhelmed they seemed at last, But still withstood the sortie's angry blast; And from their loud-mouthed cannon missiles flew, And, tearing through the masses, hundreds slew. While by each dike the brigantines were fought, And, with their guns, rude, deadly havoc wrought. The musketeers their volleys thickly poured. And, all around, the raging battle roared, 'Mid clouds of smoke which o'er the waters rolled. The Spanish fire, upon the Aztecs, told. And, soon, in wild confusion back they reeled. And left the Christians masters of the field, Their fury dying into murmurs low As they receded into Mexico. XI. Again the city's streets were wet with gore, And devastation progressed, as before. Day after day the work of ruin sped. And gloomy desolation wider spread. The Aztecs' rage was impotent to save The Valley's Queen, though all her sons were brave. Alas ! that they were born to such a fate — Men who in courage proved so truly great. They saw their stately edifices fall. 3 1 8 THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO. The honey of existence turned to gall ; They saw their shrines swept ruthlessly away, And all they loved, beneath the Spaniards' sway- The wealth, and beauty of their city fled, Their ancient fame, like Montezuma, dead. The great canals they labored long to build Were with the ruins of their glory filled. And where the sun had gilded palace heights Was now a desert with extinguished lights. Well might the scene to frenzy drive them on — Thus to behold their cherished glory gone, And all their treasures laid before them waste. This, this indeed 't was bitterness to taste. But they were still defiant to their foes, And bore up grandly under all their woes. *' Go on," they to the Spanish allies cried, "And bury in the dust your native pride ! Where ye destroy ye'U have again to build. And with deep sorrows, and remorse, be filled. If those ye fight for conquer, woe to ye, And if we triumph, ye our slaves wall be ! " And, in the end, the prophecy proved true. Their country's conquest they survived to rue. PART TWELFTH. I. Untiring, still, was Devastation's hand. And ruin gloated o'er the prostrate land. The Spanish arms no rest, or mercy knew, And fiercer this unhappy conflict grew. Day after day Destruction's work was done, And battles by Invasion's hosts were won, THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 319 But, step by step, Resistance curbed their course, And force was met, defiantly, by force. Yet while they gained in strength, from day to day. They saw the Aztecs dwindling fast away. For to their camp fresh native allies came, But on their foes preyed Famine, like a flame. Oh ! countless horrors of a siege so dire. Behold, a nation, in its throes, expire ! II. Weeks passed away, and Horror rampant, reigned, But on the foe Invasion slowly gained. The Spanish forces met as they advanced. And in their joy they gaily sang, and danced. The three commanders, now, each other faced,* And fervently as comrades, old, embraced. The dead, unburied, thickly round them lay, As forward the invaders took their way — A sign the living, by their woes oppressed, Cared not for those already gone to rest ; A sign, too, of extremity, and need. No more the Aztecs to their dead gave heed, For, famine-stricken, they were weak indeed. The ground was stripped of herbage, root, and weed, And ev'ry tree was shorn of leaves, and bark — Till each was like a phantom, strange, and stark — To feed the famished legions of the brave. Who tottered on the confines of the grave. Yet, who would rather suffer here, and die Than — conquered — to the foe for mercy fly. * Cortez, Sandoval, and Alvarado. 320 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. III. Within their houses when the Spaniards came, Lay prostrate bodies — dying, dead, or lame — And mothers who no more their babes could feed, Who from their woes by Deatli would soon be freed, The fountains of their nature famine-dry. But not in peace were these allowed to die. The Spanish allies razed their dwellings low, And all within thus perished at a blow. No age, or sex was spared. A common fate Awaited all the victims of their hate. But even here not one for mercy cried. For as he lived the Aztec bravely died. The Aztec women like their lords were brave. And labored hard their country's cause to save. With missiles they the soldiers' arms supplied, And o'er the wounded and the dying sighed. They felt the glow of patriotic pride. And courage, and a constancy, sublime, Like those of Carthage in the olden time, And Saragossa's maids in modern days. Heroic Spirits ! Let us sing their praise. IV. The spacious market square at length was gained, And Spanish hands the temple, near, profaned,^ And gave its idols to the roaring flames, Amid vociferously loud acclaims. * This was a teocalli on the north side of the city, inferior only in size to that of the war-god. It was captured and burned by Alvarado. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 321 Though long and fierce the battle raged below Ere it was wrested from the bleeding foe. All save the pyramid to ashes fell, But that remained the tragic tale to tell,* While o'er it waved the banner of Castile, And at its base flashed bright Toledo steel. Ascending to its summit Cortez viewed The region he had made a solitude. The palaces, and temples, were no more, And all the scene a look of ruin wore. The busy marts of industry and trade, With all their splendors, in the dust were laid. The groves and gardens, too, had passed away, And Tenochtitlan in her ashes lay, Save where some mighty temple rose on high. As if Invasion's ravage to defy. Unrazed a narrow section still remained. Within whose limits Famine rampant reigned.* The people, yet surviving, gathered there. While Pestilence was floating in the air. And by their numbers, for these still were vast. Increased the horrors even of the past ; But though enfeebled by their countless woes, They hurled their missiles still upon their foes. And 'neath the victor's charge exhausted fell While battling for the land they loved so well. * Like the war-god's teocalli, it was a pyramidal structure, built of sun-dried brick, and only the wood and fancy-work about it was combustible. * Seven-eighths of the city had been destroyed. The re- maining eighth— between the'great northern and western cause- ways, the modern Barrio de San Jago— comprehended the district of Tlatelolco, into which the population, still large, was crowded, although there were not accommodations for a third of their numbers. 322 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. As from the teocalUs in the square, The raging flames diffused a lurid glare, The lamentations of their race arose. " Our gods," they cried, " are victims to our foes ! The tragic drama must be near its close ! " The pent-up Mexicans, in mute despair, Their fate awaited, willing death to share, While, daily, greater grew the heaps of dead, And less and less their scanty stock of bread : Not bread indeed, but aught that crept, or grew ; And even babes, their starving mothers slew, To satisfy the cravings which they felt. A bitter lot to these had Fortune dealt. The streets were filled with famished, houseless throngs. Who bore, in silence, all their woes, and wrongs. In ragged raiment all exposed were they To rains by night, the burning sun by day. And one by one they yielded up their breath. Among the dead they fell asleep in death. At ev'ry step the dead, in piles, were seen, And Horror brooded grimly o'er the scene. The city was a charnel-house, and all Was covered by Corruption's deadly pall. The pestilence, the multitude appalled. To stay it to their deities they called. But all their oracles, at length, were dumb. " Whence, now," they asked, " can succor to us come ? " They sought relief in superstitious rites. And fancies wild — imagination's flights — But no relief from earth — or heaven — came. In vain they cried aloud the war-god's name. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 323 Yet in the midst of all these scenes behold ! The monarch Quahtemozin still was bold — Calm, and courageous ever, as of old. With death, and ruin, round about him, lo ! He yet refused submission to the foe. VI. For days the Spanish forces hushed the fray, And cried — " Surrender ! ere we further slay," Expecting to submission they would bend. Wrung by distresses, which the heart might rend, But none surrendered to that stern demand. True was each Aztec to his native land. Then Cortez said — " Prepare for fresh assault ; I'll sow the ground with carnage, and with salt!" As he advanced, to meet him chiefs appeared. Who cried aloud as they his presence neared — "Ye are, we know, the children of the sun ! Behold how swift is he his course to run ! Why, then, so tardy ye ? why here delay To end our griefs, and terminate the fray? Oh ! crush us, all at once, and give us rest From all the woes by which we stand oppressed ? Our war-god waits us in another clime ! We yearn to meet him. Hasten, pray, the time." *' I come," said Cortez to the famished chiefs. Who piteously showed their wounds, and griefs, " To ask you to submit, and not to kill. Though ye are at the mercy of my will. Why does your monarch in the war persist, When he can see 't is futile to resist ? Confer with him, and bid him meet me here; His person I will spare, nor need he fear." That he would come, they brought the tidings back, But he the while prepared for fresh attack, 324 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Nor meant to meet the Spanish chieftain there. The promises they brought were false, but fair. Twice these were pledged, and broken, ere the blow Was struck by Cortez to disarm his foe. He led his forces forward yet once more. The battle opened with the cannon's roar ; The musketeers their deadly volleys poured; The horsemen charged, with lance, and burnished sword ; The brigantines shot missiles from the lake. While thunder o'er the valley seemed to break ; The allies rushed, like hounds, upon their prey, And clouds of smoke obscured the light of day. For this assault the Aztecs stood prepared. And boldly the invading legions dared. The strongest of their troops were in the front To face the battlers devastating brunt. To shield the feeble, and the crippled crowds. Who threw their weapons from the city's shrouds. The roofs were covered with excited throngs. Who scowled upon the authors of their wrongs, With hatred, and defiance, in their eyes. And thirst for vengeance in their frantic cries ; While mingled with them women bravely stood, And babes with lives thus blasted in the bud — All destined, soon, to welter in their blood. VII. The Aztecs' battle-cries rose shrill and clear As that invading multitude drew near, And from their shrunken arms their weapons flew. While fierce and wild the bloody conflict grew. THE CONQ UES T OF MEXICO . 325 Stones, darts, and arrows, from azoteas ^ rained, And all around with running blood was stained. The women and the children missiles threw, And cried — " We, too, to Mexico are true ! " But from such feeble hands the volleys came They missed, too oft, the object of their aim, And fell with little damage on the foe, Who swarmed around, and madly surged below. The Aztecs, hemmed within a narrow space. Were brought, with fierce destruction, face to face. The scythe of Death — remorseless — mowed them down. And Cortez cried — "We fight for Cross, and Crown ! " With heaps of slain the ground was covered o'er, And deep in channels ran, like water, gore. Till each canal with crimson floods was dyed, But still the Aztecs all their foes defied. Confusion thickened, turmoil louder grew ; Like tigers at each other foemen flew. Barbaric yells rang hideously shrill. And seemed, for miles, the valley round to fill ; While o'er the groans of men in dying throes Vile Spanish oaths, and execrations, rose. The wounded in their anguish cried aloud, Ere they were trampled by the rushing crowd. The women, and the children, wildly shrieked, While vengeance, by the sword, was on them wreaked. The victors' heavy blows fell thick and fast. Men stood before the spectacle aghast. The rapid roll of musketry was -heard, While through the air the missiles hissed, and whirred, * The roofs of the houses. 326 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And blazing buildings into ruins fell, Consigning hundreds to their burning hell. The dust, in clouds, was mingled with the smoke. And roaring cannon distant echoes woke. " The women, and the children, pray ye, spare ! " Cried Cortez to his allies fio-htino; there, But all unheeded fell his words on them : The tide of death he could no longer stem. The hurricane had passed beyond control. He saw in man a brute without a soul. 'T was not till forty thousand had been slain That to its sheath returned the sword of Spain.* VIII. The Spanish arms retreated for the night, And on the dikes awaited morning's light, Then to renew, if needed, the attack, And all, now, left of Mexico, to sack. The hours of darkness were in silence passed. Where the besieged, unyielding still, were massed. No sounds save those of agony were heard. Nor aught, that caught the ears of watchers, stirred. 'T was like the gloom, and silence, of the grave Where stunned by the terrific blow, but brave. The Aztecs, speechless, and despairing, lay Awaiting, like their foes, another day. Home, kindred, fortune, friends were swept away! With naught to live for, life had lost its charm. And death seemed like a shield to screen from harm. Death had for them no terrors, and no stings : Through it they soared, to Paradise, on wings. * This is the number given by Cortez himself. Ixtlilxochitl, the Aztec historian, says that 50,000 were slain and captured in this terrific onslaught. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 32 But in the Spanish quarters mirth prevailed, And with their best the forces were regaled, While sounds of music from the causeways came, And voices rent the air with their acclaim. Lights, from the scenes of revel, brightly gleamed. And blazing fires across the waters beamed, While all was ready for the morrow made, And all for conquest on that morrow prayed. IX. The morning chased the gloom of night away. And Cortez led his army to the fray, To crown the work of the preceding day. Ere Mexico could rally from the blow : Now was the time he knew to strike her low, And end the struggle with his daring foe.^ Across the waste where once the city stood — A blasted plain of ashes, dyed with blood — The troops advanced, from calm Tezcuco's flood — For ever on the dikes they camped at night. But with the dawn marched forward to the fight. Before he battled Cortez called a halt. " I would not now," he cried, " again assault The feeble remnants of the Aztec race, Or turn to shambles their abiding-place. If they would but surrender to the sword, For I can, mercy, to the weak afford. Let all embrace — submissively — Castile ! " By Aztec lips he sent a last appeal. To Quahtemozin of the lion heart, Who vowed he'd from his purpose ne'er depart. * It was the 13th of August, 1521, the day of St. Hypolito- the patron saint of modern Mexico. 328 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. He sent to Cortez, briefly, this reply — " Beliold me willing here to fight, and die, And all the foes of Mexico defy, And ne'er will I surrender unto them; I'll to the last defend my diadem. Let the invaders do whate'er they will, My fated land shall find me faithful still ! " "Go," Cortez to the messengers replied, " And bid your people stem the bloody tide. Their hour is come, for death awaits them all, And Mexico for evermore must fall. Tell Quahtemozin that his reign is o'er, And what he knew of yore he'll know no more, For I must end this tragedy, in gore. And pierce the dying empire to its core ! " His troops became impatient of delay, And clamored to be guided to the fray. Then Cortez gave the order to advance. And waved, he from a roof, anon, his lance. The signal to attack the fated foe, Who stones, and arrows, now, began to throw. The Aztecs, densely massed, with angry eyes, Let loose, in hate, their thrilling battle-cries. And threw their feeble volleys through the air, With energy that savored of despair. The heavy guns, in thunder tones, replied, And forward rushed the devastating tide ! The allies, with a frantic thirst for blood. Swept all before them like a roaring flood. And spared not, in their fury, sex, or age. But vented on their foes devouring rage. Why tell the tale of horror o'er and o'er? Worse was the carnage than the day before. And each canal was bridged across with slain. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO, 329 While women begged for mercy, but in vain, And Terror held an undisputed reign. The earth was wet with blood, as if with rain, And over all there waved the flag of Spain. The Christian's hand was on his victim's throat, And o'er his tortures he was seen to gloat. He slew the heathen in Jehovah's name. And Christian clergy sanctified the shame. Some plunged into the lake to flee their foes. But even there were pelted by their blows. Some sought to cross the waters in canoes, But baffling found the cruising Spanish crews. Who, from the brigantines, their missiles aimed. Death, wheresoe'er they turned, its victims claimed. The combat quickly thickened on the lake. And thunder o'er its bosom seemed to break. The brigantines were wrapped in clouds of smoke. Whose cannon echoes, all around, awoke. In hot pursuit of swift canoes they sailed, Nor to o'ertake the flying foemen failed, But even here the Aztecs bravely fought, And havoc in return for havoc wrought. Three war-canoes at length were there espied Retreating, swiftly, o'er the golden tide. With wings outspread a brigantine pursued. They tried, but vainly, to, pursuit, elude, For like a hawk that gives a sparrow chase. The brigantine was victor in the race. The Spanish crews were slowly taking aim. When " Stay ! oh ! stay ! " they heard a voice ex- claim, " The monarch of the Aztecs is on board. We would not have him perish by the sword," And Quahtemozin rose, and stood erect. 330 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. " With me," he cried, " do what ye may elect For I'm the ruler of this stricken land, And seek no mercy at the victor's hand To Cortez — your commander — lead me, pray. But spare my wife, nor these — my nobles — slay ! " f pray. The brigantine her captives bore away To where the ruins of the city lay. The fallen monarch listened to the fray. " Poor Mexico," he sighed, " has lost the day ! No longer will my valiant heroes fight, When they behold me captured in my flight. Their sun, alas ! has set in endless night ! ^' The tidings of his capture quickly spread, And then arose 'a wail as for the dead. While sounds of battle swiftly died away. The conflict ended with the monarch's sway. His people cared not to prolong the fray When he had fallen to their foes a pre}^, And so threw down their weapons in despair. And beat their breasts, in grief, and tore their hair. The boats upon the lake surrendered, too, And followed Quahtemozin, two, and two. X. When Cortez of the royal capture heard, With exultation all his blood was stirred. He summoned those who wrangled o'er the prize f * Among those with him were Coanaco, the deposed lord of Tezcuco, and the lord of Tlacopan. t The brigantine which captured the Aztec emperor was commanded by Holguin, but as Sandoval had command of the fleet he demanded that Quahtemozin should be surren- dered to him on board his own vessel, which Holguin refused, and so a hot dispute arose. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 331 To bring him, as he stood, before his eyes, But on the way to treat him as a king, Nor add to his captivity a sting. He spread a crimson cloth, and homely fare, And bade Marina for a guest prepare. She — ever lovely, and as true as fair — Through all the conquest's troubled scenes had passed. And now she gazed on victory at last. XI. Escorted by the troops, the monarch came As proudly as became his royal fame. And Cortez met him with a greeting grave. And bowed in honor of the hero brave. The captive's eye was lustrous, dark, and full. Which in its depths, revealed him sorrowful. While passive resignation, in his face, Concealed the courage that had fired his race. Fair in complexion, and robust of form He looked the hero who had braved the storm. And yet in manner he was calm, and mild. And gentle, and engaging as a child. " All that I could I've done," he bravely spoke. As 'mid his captors he the silence broke. " I labored to defend my country well, And struggled harder than the tongue can tell To crush the fierce invaders of the soil. But such has proved, alas ! a barren toil. For I'm at last, a captive where I stand, And conquered is my hapless native land ! What care I now what happens unto me ? I would, in death, from all these horrors flee. Deal unto me, Malinche, what you will. But on the wife I love, inflict no ill. 332 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. Despatch me with the weapon that you wear : — Why need I longer for this body care ? The glory of my race has passed away, Nor Hope upon the future sheds a ray. Why then, to suffer, should I wish to stay ? " Marina caught his words, as fast they fell, And as interpreter she acted well, And roused in Cortez admiration^s glow. He saw a hero in his captive foe, Who in misfortune showed a spirit brave. And, cool with courage, shrank not from the grave. " Fear not," said Cortez, " I will spare your life. And treat with care, and tenderness, your wife. With valor you have fought, and nobly done. And though the Spanish arms success have won, I laurel courage even in a foe, And own you've lustre shed on Mexico ! " Then Quahtemozin's bride was forward led. Who to her lord when first enthroned was wed. Thus through her brief and blissless wedded life Her lot was cast 'mid thrilling scenes of strife. Yet she was scarce a woman in her years, But for herself had, like her lord, no fears, Though for her country grief, her husband tears. She was her father's — Montezuma's — pride. And deeply she had mourned him when he died, But now her cup of sorrow overflowed.* Her face the anguish of her feelings showed. Her beauty by the tempest had been swept. And, with unrest, her heart within her leapt, * She — Tecuichpo by name — was the youngest daughter of the unfortunate Montezuma, and had married her cousin, Quah- •emozin, on his accession to the throne. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. yy. But still her charms enraptured those who gazed ; And all her grace, and lovely features, praised. XII. The hour for vespers had already passed, And all the sky with clouds was overcast. To Sandoval the captives were assigned, And to their fate they — sadly — seemed resigned. " To Co-jo-hu-a-can convey them all. And I will follow ere the night doth fall ! " Cried Cortez to his comrade, bold, and true, And Quahtemozin from his side withdrew. While with him went the empress of his heart. " Such loving souls 't would be a sin to part. The woman's beauty enmity disarms!" Exclaimed the chieftain of the Spanish arms, Won by the magic of her peerless charms. The Spanish forces to the dikes returned* To seek the rest for which their spirits yearned, For, where they'd battled, thickly lay the dead, And by the carnage pestilence was bred. The rain descended as they marched away. And darkness gathered o'er the dying day. Ere long a tropic storm, in fury, broke. And God, in thunder, from the heavens spoke, While lightning through the valley, grandly flashed. Peal after peal among the mountains crashed, And o'er the ruined city, rumbling, rolled, Which struck with awe the boldest of the bold, And shook the crazy ruins, as they stood, And echoed o'er the hills, and foaming flood. The Aztecs heard their gods amid the blast And at their shrieks, and meanings, felt aghast. * Under the command of Alvarado, and Olid. 334 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. They heard them fly affrighted, howling on, And when the storm was hushed they deemed them gone — For ever from their ravaged valley fled — To join the spirits of their people, dead. XIII. The fallen monarch on the morrow cried — "Who for the living remnant will provide ? Mexitli ! o'er the dikes my people guide, And let the wants that wring them be supplied, For 'mid those ruins they are life denied, And little longer they can there abide, Where Famine stalks, and all with blood is dyed," While as he spoke he o'er their fortunes sighed, And murmured — " Would that I, ere this, had died ! " Though still unbroken was his native pride. The wish was quickly gratified, and, lo ! Along the dikes defiled the ranks of woe — The legions, who survived their empire's doom, And in the future saw but pain, and gloom. That tens of thousands still were left to mourn. When hosts so vast had reached their final bourne, Awoke among the conquerors surprise. Who on them gazed, with wonder in their eyes.* The straggling files moved slowly to the shore. And three days passed ere all had journeyed o'er. They formed a melancholy, dismal train That spoke of famine, pestilence, and pain. The sick and wounded on each other leaned, * The number who survived the siege is variously estimated at from thirty to seventy thousand souls, including women, and children, Herrara, and Torquemada agreeing upon the lowest estimate, and Orieda swelling the number to the high- est. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 335 With ghastly gashes from the sight unscreened, And feebly tottered, dying on the way. Nor cared they longer in the world to stay. Men, women, children, — wasted, and in woe, ' Turned, as they went, to look on Mexico — To cast a long, and loving glance behind — And on the city's site a blank to find, Where lay the bodies of their kindred, slain — Men who had fought like heroes, but in vain. There on unburied heaps the vultures preyed, While weeping widows for the fallen prayed, And maidens in their anguish cried aloud. And to the earth were down, with sorrow, bowed. Ah ! who can tell how many of the brave Found in that awful siege a bloody grave t * XIV. The victors burned, and buried, now, the dead, And here and there a spoil their av'rice fed, Though scanty was the treasure that they found.f But wealth lay hidden in the lake, and ground. Where it would glisten ne'er upon their view ; How, thus, to foil their foes the vanquished knew. But coarser booty to the allies fell, With which they deemed themselves rewarded well. No more were they by Cortez needed here, * The estimates of the number of the Aztecs who were killed during the siege, which lasted about three months, varies from one hundred and twenty thousand to two hundred and forty thousand, the highest estimate being given by Ixtlilxo- chitl. This is quite possible, considering that the capital in addition to its own population was filled with recruits from the surrounding country. The losses of the allies during this time were also heavy, the Aztec historian asserting that of the Tezcucans some thirty thousand perished. t About a hundred and thirty thousand castellanos of gold. 336 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And so their chiefs he summoned to appear, And then dismissed them with a brief address, In which he praised their valor, and success. So to their homes in triumph they returned. How brief that triumph they ere long discerned ! The Spanish soldiers, too, were glad, and gay, And gave themselves to revels for a day, But, on the next, they met, in grand array, To celebrate the conquest they had won. And crown, with prayer, the valiant work they'd done. Above them waved their banners in the sun — The soiled, and tattered flags by battle stained — The emblems of the glory they had gained. These, which so oft through scenes of strife had passed. Their shadows, now, on peaceful heroes cast, Who, piously, their litany rehearsed. And in devotion were, like priests, immersed, While they, aloft, the Virgin's image raised, And this, their sign of man's redemption, praised; Then bowed the knee in sacramental prayer, While strains of music floated on the air, And asked their God, who'd led them to success, Their triumph o'er the infidel to bless. XV. Thus after all the siege the city fell — Nine months of strife, each army fighting well. With courage, and with constancy sublime The Aztecs battled through that awful time, Preferring there to shed their blood, and die, Than to their foemen — " We surrender 1 " — cry. Three hundred years, and more, had passed away Since in the valley first they made their stay — THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 337 A wand'ring tribe from far northwestern plains, Who conquered as they came, and built their fanes. And cried — " Thus much our oracle ordains : That we should roam no more, but here abide, And raise a city that shall be our pride, Whose name shall Tenochtitlan ever be, And all our foes before our arms shall flee ! " Their conquests, by degrees, the valley swept, And then across their mountain-wall they leapt, And, o'er the broad extent of tableland. Descended with destruction in each hand, And onward rolled to where the ocean lay. Till they were held by distant tribes at bay. The while their city with their progress grew, And rose a splendid object on the view, Where art, and science, trade, and busy life, 'Mid rude barbaric rites, were strangely rife, Till, in the end, unrivalled was its fame. And feared, if not revered, its mighty name. Then o'er the sea, from lands unknown, there came — As by their ancient oracles foretold — The pale and fierce invaders, strong, and bold, Who laid their empire, and their city, low, And filled the land with carnage, and with woe. They in the zenith of their glory fell. Though they resisted the invaders well. And from the roll of nations passed away. Like those who, for themselves, of yore made way. But not by foreign foes alone they died : Internal hate, they saw, their hosts divide, And this Invasion, as a weapon, used, And rancor, wheresoe'er it could, diffused. The weakness of the nation bare was laid : Against itself its forces were arrayed ; And so it yielded, where it could not stand, And fell, a conquest, at the victor's hand. 338 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. It served to point a moral in its fall, Which 't is not wholly idle to recall — That nations, and that rulers, lose their sway- And to their rivals fall an easy prey — Who rule not by the sceptre, but the sword : These, in the end, must perish like the gourd. EPILOGUE. The story of the Conquest, now, is told, And little more the poem can unfold. The city from jts wreck began to rise Beneath the spur of Spanish enterprise. And legions of the vanquished toiled to build For those who'd all their land with mourning filled. The victors discontented with their spoils — Too small a prize for their excessive toils — For Quahtemozin's torture loudly cried, And Cortez, basely, with their wish complied. But firm, through all, his fortitude remained. No treasure-tidings from his lips they gained. Not here his griefs were ended for, alas ! His days in bondage he was forced to pass. For years he saw the seasons come and go, But naught they brought his race, save woe on woe. Yet Mexico again adorned the view — Upon the ancient site, a city new, Which he had watched as day by day it grew Beneath the busy hands of mighty throngs, Who sang, but not with joy, their native songs. Yes, Mexico again was grand, and great. ^ *In less than four years from the destruction of the city Mexico was rebuilt. The new city was less extensive than the THE CONQUEST OE MEXICO. 339 She rose as if superior to Fate, And native hosts who'd with the Spaniards fought Now day by day with those re-building, wrought. So proving the prediction uttered, true. That victors thus their victory would rue : And while the hapless natives of the soil Were sore oppressed by never-ceasing toil The flag of Spain waved o'er the hapless land, — From the Atlantic to Pacific's strand, — For Cortez spread his empire far and wide, And onward swept, resistless as the tide.* Few were the foes who e'er his sword defied. Yet while he labored for the cause of Spain, And for her sought fresh conquests to attain, Velasquez, and Fonseca crushed him down, t But to his succor came at last the Crown, And he received his well-deserved renown. % Velasquez broken-hearted, ruined, died. While to the earth was bent his lofty pride, And soon Fonseca, like him, passed away, Chagrined to find he held no longer sway.§ old, but its superior in strength, and magnificence, and it occupied exactly the same site, and was constructed on the same general plan. * Within three years after the conquest Cortez had brought under Spanish dominion a region more than four hundred leagues in length on the Atlantic coast, and five hundred leagues in length on the Pacific. t Velasquez, governor of Cuba, and Bishop Fonseca, the Spanish Colonial Secretary, both of whom were his inveter- ate foes, the former for reasons already explained, the latter because he espoused the cause of Velasquez. % His acts vi^ere confirmed, and he was made Governor, Captain-General and Chief Justice of New Spain by Charles the Fifth by a commission dated Oct. 15, 1522. § He died in 1523, the year after the acts of Cortez were confirmed against his protest. 340 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. For thirty years a living blight was he, On those who won their glory o'er the sea. He checked Columbus in his enterprise, And long on Cortez cast his evil eyes. Ere this had Cortez, still on conquest bent, Brave Alvarado, with an army, sent To sweep the Cordillera's southern slope — An enterprise from which he'd much to hope — And not in vain he prayed for great success, And asked the Lord his gallant troops to bless, For Alvarado Guatemala gained, Though not, alas ! till blood its valleys stained. To far Honduras other squadrons sailed. Who, too, with speedy conquest were regaled, While o'er the victors Olid held command. But traitor-like he claimed the conquered land, And vowed no more he'd leader recognize, " For this," said he, " I claim my own emprise." " Not thus will I be cheated of my prize," Cried Cortez, with revengeful, flashing eyes, " I'll go myself, and this my foe chastise ! " And so he to Honduras led the way, There to extend his conquests, and his sway. And with the army marched the throneless King — The eagle that no more its way could wing — Whose heart with anguish he was prone to wring. For as a captive he a burden proved. And Cortez wished him from his sight removed, Yet feared to set so great a hero free. Who knew what Quahtemozin yet might be ? He still in him could strength, and danger see, And watched him with a timid, jealous eye. As if he felt a potent foeman nigh. Ere long vague whispers of a plot he heard, And this within him cruel passions stirred THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 341 " The monarch, he is guilty ! " he averred, " And I, from justice, ne'er will be deterred ! " With treason he poor Quahtemozin charged, And on its great enormity enlarged. This capped the climax of his countless woes. And brought his sad existence to a close. For Cortez cried — " The traitor I will hang ! " And to the work his soldiers, gladly, sprang. These to a ceiba-tree the victim led — A tree whose limbs in majesty were spread. There, with intrepid spirit, he exclaimed — "Naught have I done of which I feel ashamed, Yet I, though guiltless, thus am foully blamed. And sentenced to be murdered where I stand By those who robbed me of my native land. But I foresaw the fate for me in store When I was captured, to be free no more. I knew Malinche's words would prove untrue, And that I'd live my trust in him to rue. Oh ! that I'd perished when my empire fell. The story of my life is sad to tell." Then, as he to his nobles said good-by, The face of Cortez met his sparkling eye. And he was heard reproachfully to cry — " Why so unjustly do you take my life, And wring with anguish my devoted wife, When you protection promised t — Base indeed Must be your heart to do so foul a deed. And God will scourge you, Cortez, for the crime ! Remember this ! I leave the rest to time ? " And with him perished on that ceiba-tree Tacuba's lord, and other nobles, three.* * His execution took place at the beginning of Lent, 1525, after a captivity of more than four years. 342 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. As bravely as he'd lived the monarch died. And o'er his fate his scattered subjects sighed. While he survived, their eyes were turned to him, Whose lustrous deeds not even time could dim, But when, at length, from life he passed away They seemed no more to wish on earth to stay, And to the yoke of their oppressors bowed. With bitter lamentations, deep, and loud. Without a struggle thus, resigned, they sank, And to the dregs Submission's potion drank. His bride survived to mourn his hapless fate, And, in her sorrow, was disconsolate. But soon a Spanish knight the empress wooed. And not in vain he for her favor sued, For Spanish nobles traced descent, with pride, In after ages, from the Aztec bride * Marina still with Cortez — at his side — Was seen upon the toilsome march to ride. And she was still the gallant army's pride ; But near the time approached when she no more Would be what she had been so long before. She saw, with gladsome eyes, one smiling morn The once familiar spot where she was born.f "This is," she cried, " the fairest place on earth, And, oh ! my mother — she who gave me birth^ — I love her though she sold me as a slave ! Is she alive, or sleeps she in her grave ? " She lived, and Cortez bade her, then, appear. And to the camp she came with doubt, and fear. Marina ran to meet her, and the two. Across the gulf of Time, each other knew. And there the mother, and the child embraced. * The Princess Tecuichpo married successively three Castil- ians of noble descent. t In the province of Coatzacualco. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 343 While all the past from mem'ry was effaced, And, when from other lips reproaches fell, 'T was filial love that made her bosom swell, And she replied — " My mother I forgive. And may she long in peace, unbroken, live. She knew not what she did with me, of old, When to the traders I, for life, was sold. But all is good that leads to good, I feel. And I am now a daughter of Castile, While as a Christian I am rich in grace, And far above my poor, benighted race, Who worship gods that can no help afford. My trust is in the Christian's cross, and sword ! " Then, as if back her mother's love to win, A ring she gave her, and a golden pin. And other jewels, rare, of those she wore, For she of trinkets had a goodly store. " This reconciliation seemeth sweet, And it hath gladdened me to see you meet," Said Cortez to the mother, and the child. And as he spoke the rugged soldier smiled. Then turning to Marina, speaking low. While from his heart his language seemed to flow, He added — " You have loved, and labored well, Through all the fortunes which my lot befel, And I am moved to gratitude, and fain Would see you reap a rich reward from Spain, For you have nobly served both Cross, and Crown, And who deserves, if 'tis not you, renown ? If 3'ou would here abide I'll give you lands, And, wath a Spanish knight's, wdll join your hands. In marriage you, with him, will little rue. For his regard, like mine, for you is true. The son you bore me I will watch with pride, * * Cortez had one child by Marina — Don Martin Cortez — 344 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And he shall reap his honors at my side. Would I could do for you, Marina, more, But I have told the story oft before ! " The proferred land, and proferred hand she took, * Though with a trace of sadness in her look. She felt at heart a widow, though a bride, And o'er the loss of him, so loved, she sighed. He loved her too, but his ambition soared. To wed Marina he could ne'er afford. If he would reap the harvest of his sword. But there, in happiness, she passed her days, And, to the last, Castilians sang her praise. To royal heights he cast aspiring eyes, Now that he stood absolved from nuptial ties. The wife he married in his manhood's morn Was, like himself, of humble parents born. And when — his conquest won — she sought him here. But little in his home she found to cheer. For her no more had Cortez love and smiles. And, sickened by the journey from the isles, She died ere three short months had passed away, And dying sighed — " Farewell ! I would not stay." f When Cortez reached the region of his quest, And in Honduras forests courted rest, He found the traitor Olid lived no more. An envoy he had sent had shed his gore. And Olid died, beheaded where he'd reigned, who rose to a high position, and was made comendador of the Order of St. Jago ; but in 1568 he was accused of treasonable designs against the government, in the city of Mexico, and put to the torture. * She was lawfully married to Don Juan Xamarillo, a Cas- tilian knight. t Her death occurred in Mexico in 1524, three months after her arrival from Cuba. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 345 While true to Cortez still his troops remained. Here Nicaragua's conquest next he planned, * For he had heard of treasures in the land, But tidings came which moved him to return, For danger he, in tumult, could discern. And Mexico proclaimed that he was dead. So o'er the sea, by briganiine, he sped, But thrice was backward swept by wind, and wave, And nigh beneath the billows found his grave. At last on Cuba's shore his bark was casl:. And two long years of pain had o'er him passed— Since he from Mexico had turned his face Ere he returned to his accustomed place. Then like a pilgrim from the grave he came. His rights as chief of Mexico to claim. This fanned the fiame of his expiring fame ; And men with bated breath pronounced his name. 'T was like a resurrection from the dead. And wonder, through the land, his coming spread.* The shadow of his former self he seemed. And ardor in his eye no longer beamed. For he was sick in body, and in mind. And deemed that Fortune was no longer kind, While former friends, of foes had played the part ; But his reception warmed his drooping heart. In triumph o'er his enemies he rode, And, bright with hope, again the future glowed. Not long howe'er this triumph he enjoyed. His joy with sorrow soon became alloyed. For Spain humiliation dealt him now. And to another he was forced to bow. f *He returned to Mexico, in June, 1526. t Louis Ponce de Leon arrived in Mexico in July, 1526, to supersede Cortez temporarily in the government, and investi- gate charges made against him to the Court of Madrid. He died withm a few weeks, but delegated his authority. 346 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. O'er his success his foes had bitter grown, And calumny, with tongues of hatred, sown. " Aspersed, accused, I will not linger here, But go to Spain, and prove my record clear," Said Cortez proudly, and he boldly sailed To meet whoe'er his character assailed. The comrades he had trusted long, and most — Whose deeds of glory were their country's boast- Went with him on his voyage o'er the main. And, with rejoicing, saw the shores of Spain. The port of Palos burst upon their view. And there they first heard tidmgs of Peru, For Cortez by Pizarro then was told Of that far country of romance, and gold,"*^ From which he came for needed aid to sue, To rally round him, too, a warlike crew. But, newly found, it still unconquered lay — A western wonder, and a rich Cathay — Already doomed to fall an easy prey To ruthless hands whose mission was to slay, " A noble conquest you have bravely won ; And I my work begin wdien yours is done !" Exclaimed the future hero of Peru. " Be to yourself, your Cross, and country true, And as I've done you, too, perchance may do," Said Cortez, in reply : — " Behold we meet Where great Columbus landed from his fleet When first he from the New World came to tell The story of the work he did so well. But five, and thirty years since then have passed, Yet what events are crowded in the Past ! The New World woos the Old World's enterprise, And vast achievement in its future lies." * Cortez reached Palos in May, 1528, and there met Pizarro who had just arrived from the Pacific to solicit aid and au- thority, for his conquest of Peru, which he had just discovered. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 347 At Palos Death took Sandoval away, While Cortez knelt beside his bed to pray. He sadly mourned his comrade, true and brave, And wept, in tender sorrow, o'er his grave."* Then onward to Toledo he repaired. And like a monarch on his journey fared. For Aztec chieftains swelled his pomp, and train, And Spanish nobles welcomed him to Spain. The people thronged the conqueror to view, And gazed in wonder on his retinue. Since first Columbus from the New World came No sou of Spain had earned such splendid fame, And — Charles — the haughty monarch of Castile — A greeting gave which filled his heart with weal. The man the monarch had been told to fear, As one who to the throne would ne'er give ear. But make himself of Mexico the king, And at his native land defiance fling, Had come a loyal vassal to the throne, Not claiming aught he'd conquered as his own. The Marquess of the Valley he became,t And royal honors clustered round his name, *Gonzalo de Sandoval died at the age of thirty-one. t The Emperor Charles V. conferred the title of Marquess of the Valley upon Cortez on July 6, 1529, together with vast estates in Mexico. He also gave him the rank of Captain- General of New Spain and the South Sea coasts, but would not restore him to the Governorship, a Viceroy of Mexico with concurrent military authority being subsequently appointed, in the person .of Don Antonio de Mendoza. It was the policy of the Crown to encourage him, and explorers generally, as discoverers, but not as rulers of the countries they had con- quered. We saw a conspicuous instance of this in the case of Columbus. Cortez was thereupon presented with a charter giving him the right to explore and conquer, at his own ex- pense wherever he pleased in the Southern ocean, his compen- sation to be one twelfth of all his discoveries. 348 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. While wealth in lands with these the Monarch gave As just rewards for enterprise so brave. Thus basking in the favor of the Crown, And in the full enjoyment of renown, With traces still of youth, and comely looks, A mind not wholly uninformed by books, And manners that were courtly, and refined, Which brilliance with gentleness combined — Bland, winning, always elegant, and kind — The hero of the conquest wooed his bride And led her captive with exulting pride. For she was lovely in her form, and face. Her youth, and beauty, glorified by grace — A noble creature of a noble race."* With her — the joy of these his halcyon days — Existence seemed a dream of love, and praise, And both, ere long, together crossed the deep, His riches in the conquered land to reap. There, on his laurels, he reposed awhile, And made the cultured earth, in harvests, smile, While with abundance Ceres blessed his toil. And brought him riches from the teeming soil. At length he wearied of his calm pursuits. And, in adventure, sought for other fruits. He yearned to find, and conquer, regions new. And of the future glowing pictures drew. Both north, and west, his squadrons ranged the main, But little glory brought to him, or Spain,* *This the second wife of Cortez was Juana, daughter of Count de Aguilar, and niece of the Duke de Bejar. t Cortez fitted out two squadrons in 1532, and 1533, for dis- covery to the northwest, on the Pacific, and another in July, 1539, which resulted in important contributions to geographi- cal discovery along the Pacific coast, but in the loss of three hundred thousand castellanos of gold to Cortez, whereby he was much embarrassed during the rest of his life. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 349 Though they had ranged the ocean far, and wide, From Rio Colorado's blushing tide To Panama's bright island-studded ba}', And to the isle of Cedros, far away. Where, rich in treasure, California lay. Of these adventures Cortez met the cost. " Three hundred thousand casteUanos lost. And not a ducat gained,"^— he murmured low, *• Is all I have for all I've done to show ! Though rich before I, now, am poor in purse, And I have borrowed gold, and, worse, oh ! worse, I've pawned the very jewels of my wife, And made myself a slave to Debt for life ! " But he the Sea of Cortez had explored,* And Science gained a triumph o'er the Sword. While thus, an errant knight, he roved the sea His bride had sighed — " He'll ne'er come back to me ! " For she within her palace walls was left Of much for which she 3^earned too long bereft, And shipwreck oft wms pictured to her mind As in the night she listened to the wdnd. Alone, and but a stranger in the land, She felt the absence of a guiding hand, And when the tidings came that he had come, She wept in gladness, and with joy was dumb. Though baffled, still for conquest Cortez yearned. And to the north his eager e3^es were turned. Another expedition he designed Another land like Mexico to find, But here Mendozaf foiled him in his plan, And placed the enterprise beneath his ban, * The Gulf of California. t The Spanish Viceroy. 350 THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. And curbed him here, and there, in divers ways. " Not thus," said Cortez, " I will spend my days, To see my rights so filched from me away. Before the Crown my wrongs I'll quickly lay. And go in person to the Spanish court, Mendoza's interference to report." To those he loved he fondly said adieu. And toward the Old World vanished from the New. His son, and heir, a boy of tender age, * Alone was sharer in this pilgrimage. The Monarch, then, was absent from his realm. And Spain was like a ship without a helm, But to the Royal Council he complained. And hoped — how vainly ! — he his suit had gained. Long, long he lingered, suing for his rights, Through weary days of pain, and sleepless nights. All barren proved where wealth he hoped to find. For justice here was slow as well as blind. At length Castile's proud Emperor returned. And from his lips the wrongs he suffered learned. But Cortez was no more the shining star Which once had beamed so grandly from afar. Pizarro's star had flashed upon the view. And fixed the eyes of Europe on Peru, While Cortez stood eclipsed by heroes new. The Monarch heeded little his appeal, And cold he felt the heart of Old Castile, But still he w'aited, suing for his due. And years elapsed ere he despairing grew. Then he began for Mexico to yearn, And pictured bliss in store on his return. For there his bride, a lordless lady, sighed. *Don Martin, eight years of age. The voyage was made in 1540, ten years after the return of Cortez to Mexico with his second wife, the Marchioness. THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO. 351 And back she longed to see him at her side, And consolation sought in solitude, And o'er her desolation loved to brood. But ere he left his native land behind, And while for home, and kin, he sadly pined. He sickened, slowly sank, and calmly died,* And o'er his corse his son, in sorrow, cried. Spain's greatest nobles bore him to the grave. And Seville mourned the loss of one so brave, f Thus passed the hero from the world away, Aspiring to a realm of endless day, Nor shrinking from his journey to its shore Across the gulf that all at last explore. *Coitez was taken sick at Seville on his way to embark for Mexico, and on the 2d of December, 1547 — more than seven years after his last return from Mexico — he died at the neighboring village of Castilleja de la Cuesta, in the sixty- third year of his age. His son, then fifteen years of age, was with him when he expired, and he left besides three daugh- ters by his second wife, then residing in Mexico, all of whom made brilliant marriages. t Cortez was buried with pomp in the Monastery of San Isidro in Seville, but in 1562 his remains were removed to Mexico by order of his son, Don Martin, and placed in the Monastery of St. Francis in Tezcuco. In 1629 the remains were again removed, and on the decease of Don Pedro, the fourth Marquess of the Valley, they were transferred by the government to the Church of St. Francis, in the city of Mex- ico, and re-interred with great ceremony. In 1794 they were removed to the Hospital of Jesus of Nazareth. The male line of the Marquesses of the Valley became extinct in the fourth generation, when the title and estates descended to a female branch. BOOK THE THIRD. THE CONQUEST OF PERU, PREFATORY. The Progress of Discovery. [Period from 1520 to 1530.] The sea was Europe's field of enterprise, And to it nations looked with wistful eyes. A western passage to the glowing East Alike engrossed the merchant and the priest, And to a science navigation grew. O'er the Atlantic white-sailed coursers flew. Thus, steering south, Magellan found the Straits, That to the Southern Ocean proved the gates, And, sailing through, the vast Pacific found, And made his name forevermore renowned.* For Asiatic shores he steered his bark. But Death soon chose the hero for its mark — Let fly an arrow from its mighty bow — And laid Magellan, ere he reached them, low. t * Magellan entered the famous Straits named after him on November 7, 1520, and on the 28th of the same month sailed into the great Southern Ocean, which he called the Pacific. t Ferdinand Magellan died on the outward voyage to India. He was a Portuguese, in the service of Spain. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 353 His ship, returning, passed by islands new — The Phillipines, all wondrous fair to view, — And speeding by where Table Mountain rose, — * Crowned with its fleecy coronet of snows — Sailed back, in triumph, to the coast of Spain. She round the world was first to plough the main — To circumnavigate this earthly sphere — And make the way, for those who followed, clear. Ere long Bermudez, roving o'er the sea. Discovered islands, rising on his lee, That in their name immortalized his own. f Then Verrazzani on the ocean shone — His flag the FIcu?'-de-lis of France, — Whose ship was named befittingly — ■" Advance," His mission north, the mainland to explore. Eight hundred leagues of our Atlantic shore, From Florida to Massachusetts Bay — He journeyed past upon his wat'ry way ; Then onward, with exploring ardor, steered, And soon bleak, rocky Nova Scotia neared. But perished, in the end, a castaway, Though when or how no mortal e'er could say. Italians were famous on the deep. Yet, though they found, they ever failed to keep, And in the New World ne'er a rood of soil Rewarded them for all their zeal and toil. They strove for others, who the glory won, And reaped rewards for deeds that they had done. Columbus gave the western world to Spain, And Cabot crossed the main for Britain's gain — * The Table Mountain, near the entrance to Table Bay, Cape of Good Hope, so called by John the Second, after being named by Diaz the Stormy Cape. t The Bermudas were discovered in 1522 by Juan Bermudez. 354 THE CONQUEST OE PERU. Though, too, he sailed for Spain, in later days, * To search for Ophir's, and Cipango's bays, And gaze on Tharsis — great in ancient lore — And riches draw from its abundant store. But though toward oriental goals he toiled, Disasters, one by one, his purpose foiled ; Yet where Brazil blooms under blushing skies He well displayed his hardy enterprise. Through virgin forests, where La Plata flowed. He, on its azure tide, far inland, rowed ; And saw the Uruguay, with smiling face. The waters of San Salvador embrace ; And ploughed the Paraguay two hundred leagues, While braving countless perils and fatigues. Mendoza followed where he'd paved the way, And Buenos Ayres rose beneath his sway.t To Florida, the land of endless bloom — Where many went for wealth, but found a tomb — Spain looked as to a region of delight. Where all was bright, and lovely to the sight, And Luke Velasquez, eager to explore, Sailed once again to cruise along its shore ;$ But he, ere long, deplored, he e'er embarked, * Cabot, not finding public patronage in England, sought employment from Spain, and in 1526 sailed from Seville with five vessels, but owing to shipwreck, mutiny and the want of provisions, he was unable to pass through the Straits of Ma- gellan. He therefore landed on the east coast of South America, and explored the rivers La Plata and Uraquay, and then remained two years on the Paraguay, after which he re- turned to Spain. t Pedro de Mendoza, with twelve ships and two thousand men, reached the river La Plata in 1535, and made settlements there, and on the Paraguay. X He sailed with three ships in 1524, four years after his first expedition, when he kidnapped a number of natives for the slave market. One of his ships was wrecked, and two hun- dred of his men were Cut off by the natives. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 355 For by misfortunes all his course was marked. Then Narvaez sailed to claim it for the Crown,* And make a conquest pregnant with renown, His laurels, lost in Mexico, regain, And from his reputation wash the stain , But warlike natives drove him from the land, And, still in sight of its alluring strand, His ship was swallowed by the raging sea, Which swept him, too, into eternity. Then Gomez from Corunna ploughed his way f To find an eastern passage to Cathay, And searched among the seas where summer smiles, For storied regions — the Molucca isles. He found them ne'er, but Cuban waters wooed, And continental shores, with wonder viewed. Of natives of Castile 't was long his boast That he was first to skirt this northern coast. Adventure spread its sails from Britain's shore. The western world, with ardor, to explore. And, through it, seek a passage to the East, And on its splendors and its riches feast. $ *Pamphilo de Narvaez having received a commission from Charles V. to conquer and govern Florida, sailed in March, 1528, with five, ships and four hundred men, but after disas- trous encounters with the natives, he was lost off the coast in November the same year, and the enterprise failed. t Stephen Gomez was sent by Charles V., Emperor of Spain, in 1525 on this mission, and he was the first Spaniard who sailed along the northern coast of America, he having on his return voyage, after sighting Florida, gone as far north as Cape Razo in the 46th degree of north latitude. X In 1526 Thomas Tison, an Englishman, was resident in the West Indies; and in 1527 two ships equipped by Henry VIII. sailed to search for a northw^est passage to India. One of these was wrecked on the shores of Newfoundland, but the other returned to England. William Hawkins of Plymouth, also, voyaged to Brazil about this time. 356 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. Thus Hawkins to Brazil his way pursued, And gorgeous scenes of tropic beauty viewed,* While France again adventured on the sea. And Cartier sailed — his ship — the " Fleur-de-lis "- And to the broad St. Lawrence found his way, But saw no passage leading to Cathay — The geographic phantom of the day.f Another voyage made the gallant Gaul, And gave its royal name to Montreal Ere Champlain, De la Roche, and Roberval Had journeyed from the New World to the Old, And glory won as navigators bold. Champlain of these was blazoned most by Fame, And in the noble Lake which bears his name He lives a deathless hero of renown. Not thus Columbus has been handed down On this great New World continent of ours, But none the less on high Columbus towers. Americus % America has named, But in Columbia is Columbus famed. And laurels evermore will round him twine. Too oft caprice and accident combine To dim the deeds that best deserve to shine. * William Hawkins of Plymouth returned to England from his voyage to Brazil in 1530, a native chief accompanying him. t Cartier, with a squadron of three ships, sailed from France on May 19, 1535, and arrived off Newfoundland on August 10, 1535, which being the day of St. Lawrence the name of that martyr was given to the gulf opening before the expedition. In September of the same year the vessels ascended the river and anchored at the island since known as Orlea.ns. From this Cartier proceeded in a boat to the principal Indian settlement on the island of Hochelaga, where the city of Montreal now stands, at the foot of a hill which Cartier called Mont-Real (Royal Mountain.) X Americus Vespucius. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 357 PART I. Preparing for the Conquest of Peru. [Period from 1525 to 1533.] The Aztec conquest stirred the wond'ring world, And bold explorers' sails anew unfurled To seek some undiscovered Mexico From which both fame and boundless wealth would flow, And, magnet-like, Peru attracted these — By Indian signs, the marvel of the Seas. Ere Vasco Nunez de Balboa died In view of the Pacific's waters, wide, That martyred hero — deathless be his fame — Heard stories of a land — Peru by name,* And planned adventure to its distant shore, Paved, he was told, with gems and golden ore, But death cut short his truly grand career, And Justice o'er his murder shed a tear. Pedrarias, his slayer, little knew In losing him, perchance, he lost Peru, For years went by, and still unfound it lay, And ere its conquest he had passed away.f Yet on the sea not idle had been Spain. From Panama her ships had ranged the main In quest of that chimera of the age — Which led Columbus to his pilgrimage — * Vasco Nunez De Balboa was beheaded by order of Pedrarias, the governor of Darien, in 1517, and the conquest of Peru did not take place till 1533 — 1534, ^Yhile Pedrarias was superseded in the governorship in 1527. t Peru under the Incas was called Tavantiiisuyu, signifying " the four quarters of the World." 358 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. A Strait that linked ihe oceans by its span, And led from Europe through to Hindostan. Thus to the north the coast had been explored, And conquered by the all-unsparing sword. The Spanish flag o'er Costa Rica waved; The Spanish troops had Nicaragua braved ; Veiagwa"* was a conquest at their hands, And far they plunged into Honduras lands, Where — ruling o'er the dusky native race — They met the troops of Cortez face to face. 'T was not till dazzled by the enterprise Which Mexico presented to their eyes That, one and all, they felt an impulse, new, To seek and conquer beautiful Peru. Then from their ranks Pizarro forward stood, Prepared for deeds of blood on field or flood. II. Pizarro was no longer young, but brave, And felt no fear of danger, or the grave. For he had in the New World long explored, And carved his way to glory with the sword, t Yet Fortune ne'er had blessed his lot with gold, Though, in the future, wealth he saw, untold, If he could but discover that Peru, Which almost seemed to lie within his view, * Veragua. t Francisco Pizarro was bom in Truxillo, in Estramadura, Spain, about 147 1, and was therefore about fifty years old at the time of the conquest of Mexico in 1521. It is uncertain when he emigrated to the New World, but history first makes mention of him at Hispaniola in 1510. He was afterwards one of the followers of Balboa, in Darien, and was with him at the time of the discovery of the Pacific. Subsequently he settled at Panama, with Pedrarias, and took part in the expe- ditions to the north. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 359 For he had heard vague rumors of the land Since first he reached the vast Pacific's strand. But one with ducats, and with enterprise, — Who'd ever looked on him with kindly eyes- He found in Luque— a vicar of the church—* Who gave his purse to aid him in the search ; And one with courage equal to his own, Who with himself to local fame had grown, In Diego de Almagro he perceived. With favor he Pizarro's plans received, And in a common cause embarked the three, To gather wealth, and laurels from the sea. A vessel these equipped, and quickly manned — Her hundred headed crew, a reckless band— Of which Pizarro took supreme command, And to the south, in Andagoya's track, f He sailed to find, to conquer, and to sack; — And Panama receded to a speck As he surveyed his kingdom from the deck, And gazed upon the islet-studded bay With eyes that saw bright visions of Cathay. November's storms were coursing o'er the main, And weeping skies shed floods of tropic rain, * Hernando de Luque was a Spanish ecclesiastic, and Vicar at Panama, who had control of funds, and in this transaction acted as the agent of Caspar de Espinosa of Panama, while Almagro was a soldier of fortune, over fifty years old, and they became with Pizarro equal partners in the expedition to the South. This was in 1524. t Andagoya had made a voyage from Panama to the south in 1522, and proceeded as far as a headland which he called Puerto de Pinas, when he returned bringing more glowing ac- counts of the people and countries beyond than had been previously received. Pizarro sailed from Panama with about a hundred men in the middle of November, 1524, and Almagro was to follow in another and smaller vessel as soon as it could be equipped, Pedrarias, the governor, having consented to the expedition in consideration of a share of the profits. 36o THE CONQUEST OF PERU. But bravely on his way Pizarro held, While high along the coast the Andes swelled — Far-stretching, and magnificent to view, O'er which the condor, sailing slowly, flew. He anchored in the river of Birii, But finding naught to cheer him where he lay He to the south again pursued his way, Once more to land where tangled thickets rose — Man's progress through the forest to oppose — And then o'er ocean steer again his course. Ere long rude tempests with appalling force — Their mighty thunder, pealing loud, and hoarse — Broke o'er, and nigh engulphed, his crazy craft, Which seemed as unprotected as a raft. As on the mountain waves it rose, and fell. And reeled, and shivered on the bounding swell, While backward it was beaten by the gale — A helpless thing, with neither spar, nor sail. Unceasing toil, and famine, told their tale In wasted bodies and in wolfish eyes. In looks of anguish, and despairing sighs, But to the joy of all on board, at last The vessel found a refuge from the blast. Yet on the shore they succor sought in vain, And almost longed to sail again the main, And cursed their lot, and clamored to return. For there no wealth, or laurels they could earn : But in Pizarro they a leader saw. Whose stubborn will was to himself a law. He faced privation with determined front, And like a hero bore misfortune's brunt. ' " To fail will be my ruin ! " he exclaimed, "And I shall be by enemies defamed. Though all I see around me now is drear, Protected by the Cross I'll linger here. While on, my bark shall, to the islands, speed, THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 361 To gather fruits my gallant troops to feed, Ere I with them the way to glory lead ! " His crippled ship receded from the view, And vanished on the distant waters, blue ; But long he waited for that ship's return, And vainly strove its coming to discern. Till six sad, weary weeks had passed away. And twenty soldiers fell to death a prey. Then far at sea the welcome sail was seen. And like a thing of life it graced the scene. The famished throng, ashore, the prospect hailed, And with abundance all were, soon, regaled, While ghastly features brightened into smiles Before the banquet from the pearly isles. Upon their wasted forms, and hollow eyes Their comrades gazed in pity and surprise. And gladly all the Port of Famine fled. And left a cross to show where lay their dead. Still to the south his ship Pizarro steered, But from the shore to wander far he feared, And so its windings slowly he pursued, And with an anxious eye the prospect viewed. He searched for El Dorado day by day, While cheered by Hope upon his weary way. Anon he landed, and a battle fought. And havoc, rude, among the Indians wrought. Who, seeking vengeance, then, invaders slew. While from their bows their feathered arrows flew. * Discomfited, Pizarro sailed away Toward Panama's bright azure-tinted bay. And landed at Chicama on its shore, f For he no more could sail the ocean o'er *This was at a headland called Pueta Quemada, where five Spaniards were killed, and many wounded, t A short distance west of Panama. 362 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. Until his shattered ship was rigged anew, And fresh recruits had reinforced his crew. Here he, awaiting her return, remained. While, with the golden trophies he had gained, She for the city sailed, the tale to tell Of cruel fortunes that her lot befell : And while he waited with a chosen few A caravel, one morning, near him drew. It bore Almagro, and a warlike band, And shouts of gladness rose from sea, and land. The two old comrades then each other faced. And with a more than Spanish warmth embraced."* Almagro told Pizarro how he'd sailed. And been by strange, and warlike, tribes assailed, But to discover countries, new, had failed ; How by a weapon he had lost an eye. And been compelled from hostile lands to fly ; And how he for his comrade searched the main, And coasts, and the horizon scanned in vain. Till fearing he, and all his soldiers, brave. Had in the restless ocean found their grave — And finding that his craft was leaking fast, While stormy winds had sprung her only mast — He homeward turned her weather-beaten prow, And much rejoiced to find his comrade now. t More than Pizarro's, was Almagro's spoil — The fruit of daring and incessant toil — And as they viewed the mass of golden ore. With avaricious eyes they longed for more. * Almagro with the assistance of Luque had fitted out a small caravel, and sailed from Panama, with between sixty and seventy men, to join Pizarro, but not till long after the departure of the latter. t He had called at the Pearl Islands, and ascertained where Pizarro was to be found. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 363 III. Almagro back to Panama repaired, But to return, not yet Pizarro cared. His comrade to Pedrarias appealed, And begged for aid to plough this fallow field, And reap the rich rewards that it would yield ; But he condemned the enterprise as vain, And spoke of bold Pizarro with disdain. Yet, to that hero, Father Luque was true, And placed his voyage in a fairer view. By which his friend Pedrarias was won. Though to Pizarro justice scant was done. He made Almagro equal in command. With equal rights in each discovered land, And this Pizarro learned with wounded pride. " How cruel is Pedrarias ! " he sighed, While of Almagro, now, he jealous grew. And murmured — *' He to me has proved untrue." But when the comrades met, Almagro vowed To wrong Pizarro he was far too proud. Yet by distrust Pizarro was oppressed, And deep its seeds were planted in his breast. Though on the surface not a ripple stirred. And from his lips escaped no angry word. IV. To Panama Pizarro took his way. For he had grown impatient of delay, And in. returning, he had naught to fear, For Luque had made his path, and record clear. These, with Almagro, signed their compact there, Which gave to each of spoils an equal share, While, for a paltry sum in virgin gold, 364 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. Pedrarias surrendered wealth untold. They then invoked a blessing from on high — With eyes uplifted toward the beaming sky — On their ambitious, and unholy cause, Which violated Heaven's primal laws, And said — " The Prince of Peace will sanctify What, in his sacred name, we ratify," Forgetting that to plunder, and to kill Were both forbidden by His holy will : But, guided by the spirit of their age They saw no wrong in such a pilgrimage. All infidels they deemed their proper prey, And called on God to arm them for the fray. An expedition, new, to journey south Became the theme that passed from mouth to mouth. With two staunch vessels, larger than the last — Though each had but a solitary mast. And eighty restless spirits for its crew — Almagro, and Pizarro, for Peru Left Panama, and vanished from the view. The river of San Juan soon was reached ; The Gospel to the heathen there was preached, And from their bodies ornaments of gold — Which seemed unbounded riches to unfold — Were filched beneath the banner of the Cross, And gold was mingled thus with earthly dross. * Pedrarias relinquished his share of the fruits of future conquest for a thousand pesos de o?'o which was paid to him, leaving the enterprise entirely in the hands of Pizarro, Luque, and Almagro, who on the loth of March, 1526, executed, with much ceremony, a contract by which they partitioned equally among themselves the countries they might conquer, Luque having contributed twenty thousand /i?j"" At length the grand procession reached the square, And marching to its centre, halted there. Six thousand of the Inca's retinue Had gathered round him in Pizarro's view, But nowhere was the Spanish chieftain seen, While all his troops were hidden from the scene. " What meaneth this ? — the strangers, where are they ? " Atahuallpa then was heard to say, And as he spoke a priest approached his side — Pizarro's friend, and spiritual guide — Valverde, with a Bible in his hand.^ * Fray Vicente de Valverde, a Dominican friar, Pizarro's chaplain, and subsequently Bishop of Cuzco. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 401 " I come," said he, " according to command. To dissipate the darkness in your soul, Aud lead you to a bright, eternal goal — To teach the true — the Christian — faith Divine, And cause you all your idols to resign. In Father, Son, and Holy Ghost believe, And as a convert baptism receive ; Declare submission to the crown of Spain, And deem the change your own, and country's gain ; Give welcome to Pizarro as a friend, And to his will obediently bend ; Do this, and he will you, and yours defend ; Refuse, and then your empire he will rend. Behold in him a soldier of the Cross Who in your splendor sees barbaric dross, And who, by potentate and Pontiff armed, Is not to be by infidels disarmed. He comes to conquer and convert Peru, And boldly he his Master's work will do, And reap a crown of glory in the skies. For great and holy is our enterprise. Join with him then, in heart, and soul, and hand, And glorify your race, and native land. So shall your portion be eternal bliss ! Can you resist — O Savage Ruler ! — this 1 Christ and St. Peter wait for your reply! Abjure your errors, — to salvation fiy ! " The Inca's eyes were seen to flash with fire. While dark became his brow with sudden ire As Felipillo, in his native tongue, These words repeated of impending wrong. " I will," he cried, " be subject unto none ! One monarch here shall rule, and only one, And earth can boast no greater prince than I, While, in the sun, my God behold on high. 402 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. There he for evermore, in light, will live ! Your brainless Pope my land to you may give, As I miofht 2:ive the universe to him, But ne'er would I give wmg to such a whrni. Demented men may talk of things as vain, But I had looked for other things from Spain. As for my faith, 't is changeless as the sun. Which through all seasons doth his journey run. Your God, you say, was crucified, but mine Upon his children doth for ever shine. But why so strangely speak you unto me, And for what purpose came ye o'er the sea? " The friar to his Bible pointed then, But books were far beyond the Inca's ken. He took it in his hand, and turned it o'er — While all his face a look of trouble wore — Then threw it — with vehemence — rudely down, And followed this with an indignant frown, Exclaiming, with the action, — " It is base To strive to thus subvert another race ! Go tell your comrades that I'll tarry here Till they before me — one and all — appear, And give the satisfaction I demand For all the wrongs they've heaped upon my land ! " The friar raised the volume from the ground, And felt his angry passions all unbound. Then rushing to Pizarro thus he cried — " We waste our breath on dog so full of pride. Who scorns to take the Gospel for his guide ! See how with troops the fields are filling fast ! The time for action, swift, has come at last. Set on at once, you stand absolved by me ! Before the Cross the Infidel must flee ! " Pizarro said — " The hour indeed has come ! " And waved the signal scarf, and tapped the drum. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 403 The fortress quickly fired the fatal gun, And there and then the contest was beo-un. o Pizarro, springing forward to the square, Rent with his battle-cry the drowsy air — " Christo y Santiago !'' — thrilling sound — Which many voices echoed all around, For ev'ry Spaniard answered it aloud. And of that ancient war-cry all were proud. " St. Jago — at them ! " felffrom ev'ry man As on they charged, — Pizarro in the van, Aud '' Jcsu C/insfo / Adela?ite !'' X2.\\g From ear to ear amid the awful clang. Both horse and foot into the plaza poured. While, in their tones of thunder, cannon roared. And smoke in volumes rolled across the view. The troops, like furies, on their victims flew, Who panic-stricken knew not what to do. Surprised, and blinded, stunned, and in dismay, They vainly strove to tear themselves away — ' To fly for refuge from the sudden fray. The native host— embracing high, and low — In dense confusion reeled beneath the blow- Surged wildly like a tempest-driven sea — Plunged like a steed impatient to be free. And then were trampled down by iron feet — By cavalry both terrible, and fleet, While, right and left, the horsemen fiercely slew, And fast the dreadful carnage thicker grew. Unsparing, cruel, merciless, and bold, Their deeds were such as made the blood run cold. Their swords, and lances flashing through the gloom Told the survivors of their coming doom. And horse and rider filled them with affright. 404 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. Could they, unarmed, such awful monsters fight? They shuddered unresisting — at the sight. The way was closed to all escape by flight. With dead was filled the entrance to the square : And what a scene of horror there was there — What agony, and bloodshed, and despair — What writhings of the wounded ere they died ! Description by such anguish was defied ! At length the wildly rushing multitude. By the relentless cavalry pursued. Broke through the wall of stone, and su«n-dried clay That held them in, and madly tore away, The horsemen in pursuit, like demons, still — Resolved where'er they could to maim, or kill — And striking them in all directions, down, Believing they would thus achieve renown. And serve alike the cause of Cross and Crown. The while around the Inca raged the fight — To him an awful, and appalling sight — Whose capture was the object of the fray. His vassals round him — helpless — stood at bay, And threw themselves in his assailants' wa}^. And with their breasts his body strove to shield, While 'mid the slaughter to and fro they reeled. To force the horsemen back they vainly tried, And clinging to their horses, bleeding, died. But others took their places as they fell — What words can of their deep devotion tell? — And others strove their riders to dismount — How sad it is the story to recount ! — With loyalty as touching as 't was true. What more could mortals for their monarch do ? THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 405 The Inca stunned, bewildered, and disma3'ed, Glanced vainly round for refuge or for aid. He saw his faithful vassals falling fast, And looked the picture of a king aghast, Scarce comprehending all his eyes surveyed. His palanquin was by the tumult swayed — Rocked to and fro upon the heaving crowd, While, all around, the battle raged aloud. He on the overwhelming ruin gazed A helpless being, by the tempest dazed — A mariner upon a sinking ship. Forlorn, and with a prayer upon his lip. With thunder, and with lightning in the air, And at his heart pulsations of despair. He could not, though he tried, avert his fate. The hounds of hell upon him seemed to wait. At length of savage slaughter weary grown — While on their work the sun no longer shone — The soldiers sought to take the Inca's life, And terminate at once the bloody strife, Afraid that he, as twilight died in night, Might still elude them by disguise, or flight. 'T was then Pizarro like a Stentor cried — " Let none his weapon toward the Inca guide ! Who strikes him down shall like his victim die! " And as he spoke he saw an arrow fly. Aimed at the palanquin that now was nigh. When stretching out his arm to ward the blow It struck him, and the blood began to flow — The first and only blood a Spaniard shed. Though thickly round him lay the Indian dead. Still fiercer grew the struggle for the prize. Still wilder grew the battle's frantic cries, And more, and more the royal litter reeled Till those who bore it fell, and o'er it heeled. 4o6 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. To save it, then, from crashing to the ground Pizarro reached it at a single bound, And caught the faUing monarch in his arms, While in his face was mirrored war's alarms. A soldier snatched the borla from his head, * And captive to the buildings he was led, No more the monarch he had been before, His native glory with his capture o'er. All efforts at resistance ended now. And to its fate the country seemed to bow. The Inca's seizure spread with lightning speed. And grave disaster each in this could read. It fell upon them like a broken charm. All saw that it foreboded further harm. And all took flight in sorrow, and alarm. The troops, in the adjacent fields encamped. Like startled deer, in self-defence, decamped. While in pursuit the horsemen madly rode. Nor in the heat of triumph mercy showed, But down with savage fury thousands mowed. Night's mantle fell, at length, upon the scene — While shed the placid moon her silver sheen As if to calm the storm that raged below — When in dark Caxamalca's bloody square The soldiers rallied at the trumpet's blare. A frugal banquet in the hall was spread And there the Inca broke Pizarro's bread. The Captor, and the Captive, side by side, Each other oft with looks of wonder eyed, And when, through Felipillo, who was nigh, * The soldier's name was Estete, THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 407 Pizarro spoke, the Inca made reply, And either felt unconscious of his fate, Or showed a fortitude sublimely great. " ' T is but a freak of war," he calmly said, " But I deplore, as well I may, the dead. Of all your deeds since landing I have known. But I ne'er dreamed of danger to my throne. For all Peru — remember ! — is my own ! Your numbers seemed for mischief strangely few, For what, I asked, could such invaders do ? Across the mountains, hence, I let you come, And, though I could have spoken, I was dumb. I ne'er believed that Caxamalca's plain So soon would reek with my defenders, slain, Or that the few the many would assail. And o'er them with such suddenness prevail. But it is done, and I am here with you ! Be merciful, I pray you, to Peru ! ^' XI. The Inca's age was thirty years, or less, And there was grace, and fitness in his dress. Robust of frame, and comely in his build. And in the duties of his station skilled. With lustrous eyes, and somewhat massive head. He looked like one to wield a sceptre bred. In manner grave, yet affable withal — With mirth, or sternness, ready at his call — And in his speech deliberate, and slow — His language gliding with an easy flow — He claimed attention even from his foe. Pizarro sought to mitigate his gloom. For he was sad though he could joy assume, And equanimity was prone to feign. " Regrets," said he, " my noble friend are vain ! 4o8 THE CONQ UES T OF PER U. Though you no more may o'er your country reign, Save as a vassal in the name of Spain, Your fate is but the lot of all her foes. For o'er her its protection Heaven throws. We came to preach the Gospel, and the Cross. You treated both as if they were but dross, And on Valverde cast an evil eye ; And so your pride was humbled from on high. But courage, you may still confide in me, And wear the crown of immortality. Renounce your idols, and the faith embrace, And Christ will lead you to the throne of Grace ! " XII. That night Pizarro all his troops addressed. " The Lord of Hosts," said he, " our arms has blessed ; A miracle has saved us from defeat ! Let all give thanks at the Redeemer's feet ! No drop of blood the Infidel has shed, But we can count around us thousands dead ! Our lives for things still greater have been spared. But we must stand by night and da}^, prepared, For we are here encompassed by our foes. Then let us watch ! — watch even in repose, For vigilance security will guard. While fortune oft by negligence is marred." XIIL The morrow dawned upon the scene of blood, And bathed it in the sun's refulgent flood. A host of captives gathered in the square. Where Carnage breathed its odors on the air. " Let these," Pizarro cried, '' inter the dead THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 409 Ere pestilence within the walls is bred." Then horsemen to the Inca's quarters sped To seize the spoil, and scatter those around, Ere noon returning with the booty found — Gold, silver, jewels, and devices rare, Which made each soldier long to clutch his share — And troops of captives to their fate resigned, But eager their imprisoned chief to find. The Inca's wives and nobles in the train, And all alike in mourning for the slain — A sad, and touching spectacle of woe, But, still unheeded by their cruel foe. So great they were in numbers, some exclaimed — "Let these be slain, or at the least be maimed. They ne'er with amputated hands can harm. Or prove a source of danger, or alarm, While terror through the land will thus be spread, And all Peru will hold us more in dread ! " But this Pizarro scouted as a wrong Which might resistance foster, or prolong, And bade the captives homeward wend their way. Save those he ordered in the camp to stay, To labor for the conquerors, and wait. Each soldier lived, with servitors, in state. While flocks of llamas furnished dainty fare. And stores of fabrics garments, rich, to wear — Choice textures made of cotton, and of wool. Of which the Inca's magazines were full. Pizarro on to Cuzco would have pressed. Nor longer in the valley paused for rest, But distant, far — six hundred miles — it lay, And rugged, strange, and toilsome was the way. His forces, too, were scanty for the feat. And he for this was loth to risk defeat, Though gladly he'd the capital have sought, And, as he journeyed, deeds of valor wrought : 4IO THE CONQUEST OF PERU. But Prudence warned him in his camp to stay, Nor venture from the Inca far to stray. He to St. Michael couriers bade repair, And spread the tidings of his conquest there, And hurry reinforcements to the scene. Where all who came could gold, and glory, glean. Then built he Caxamalca's walls anew. And banished signs of ruin from the view. And there a Christian temple quickly grew, Though of the heart's religion naught he knew. He in religious forms would bend the knee, But watered ne'er, of piety, the tree. While Church, and State, as one defended he, The zeal of Cortez ne'er Pizarro felt. And as a soldier, not a saint, he knelt. XIV. Atahuallpa from his captive's cell Heard morn and eve the temple's speaking bell — Rung by the hand, and o'er the mountains brought. That sound he deemed to him with evil fraught, For in Religion's name the Spaniards fought. 'Twas meant to cover all the crimes they wrought, And w^ho could tell how soon his life they'd claim. And with that bell salvation, then, proclaim. He pondered much, and cried, at length — ''Tis gold That makes these white invaders here so bold. Religion, and ambition — each of these — Perchance impelled them hither o'er the seas. But love of gain has swayed them more than all. And I, by gold, may liberty recall. At least I'll try how potent is its charm To shield my trembling throne from further harm, And save from deeper woe my hapless land. THE CONQUEST OE PERU. 4" And stay the fierce invader's gory hand : Nor will I long to test my fate delay. Huascar whom I've conquered in the fray, And who at Andamarca captive lies, May bribe his guards, and bid the country rise, And, while I'm helpless here, may wear my crown, And rob me of my merited renown." So to Pizarro's av'rice he appealed, And, by his words, his wealth in gold revealed. " If you," said he, " will only set me free This floor ere long by gold concealed you'll see." Pizarro deigned no answer but a smile, And felt of this incredulous the while. The Inca read his feelings in his look, And ill his incredulity could brook. " Nor this alone," said he, " I'll do but more. Your room I'll fill twice o'er with silver ore. And this, thus high, I'll pile with shining gold — Cups, plates, and vessels of artistic mould." * And — standing — as he spoke, his hand he raised. Each Spaniard on his comrades gazed amazed. Yet deemed his splendid promise but a boast. Though of his wealth they'd heard along the coast. Pizarro shared his cavaliers' surprise. And lust of treasure kindled in his eyes. — " What if the Inca thus," he spoke, " can do, And all he says should prove — how welcome! — true ? No harm can come if I acceptance jaeld. So let the contract by our lips he sealed." A line, in red, along the wall he drew, Full in the pensive, gazing Inca's view, *The apartment to be filled with gold, was, according to the Secretary Xerez, (Cong-del Peru) about seventeen feet broad by twenty-two feet long, and the line drawn by the Inca on the wall was nine feet from the floor. 4 1 2 777^ CONQ UES T OF PER U. And said — " So high the metal piled must be Ere sixty days have sought eternity, And I declare the captive Monarch free." XV. To Cuzco royal messengers repaired, Nor temples there, nor palaces they spared, But stripped them of their treasures one by one, And these to Caxamalca hurried on, While others on to other cities sped. And called for gold, like hungry men for bread. A guarded life the while the Inca led, His wives, and nobles, round him at his will, And all responsive to his wishes still. Yet all beyond his prison walls denied. Thus, though unshackled, he for freedom sighed. While spouse, and vassal, mourned his hapless fate, And strove his crushing sorrow to abate, And in submission, slavish, bent around, And touched, in reverential awe, the ground. This deep devotion to a fallen chief. And eagerness to mitigate his grief. And yield obedience to his ev'ry word. The Spaniards to distrust, and wonder, stirred. They from his ancient faith to turn him tried, And said — " Embrace the Gospel as your guide. Your God has left you all forsaken here : Renounce him, and your course to Glory's clear." But to the ardent Sun he still was true. The old he loved, and trusted not the new. XVI. When of his rival's fate Huascar knew He more than e'er for freedom eager grew, THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 413 And offered greater ransom e'er than he, * Aspiring on the Inca's throne to be. Atahuallpa heard of this with pain, And feared his brother o'er him yet might reign. And deeper still his jealousy became When from Pizarro's lips he heard his name. The Spaniard said — " Huascar here I'll bring, And learn, by trial, who's the rightful King, And, with my sword, to either turn the scale. Nor through it in my scheme of conquest fail. Against the other I the one will play. And thus the surer make my righteous sway." Kings so had done — and oft in days before. Though naught he knew of such historic lore. Atahuallpa said—" Huascar slay ! " The order sped to where the captive lay. Who, ere the Spaniards reached him, passed away. Submerged in Andamarca's flowing tide The rightful heir— his brother's victim — died. Yet when the tidings reached the Inca's ears He feigned surprise, and sorrow e'en to tears, And told Pizarro the unwelcome tale, With seeming indignation turning pale. Of deep remorse he felt, perchance, the sting, And grieved to think he'd done so foul a thing. XVII. Great heaps of shining treasure, strangely wrought, Were day by day to Caxamaica brought By toilers more than willing for the task — * Huascar secretly sent a message to Pizarro to that effect in the hope that the latter might release him, and declare him to be the rightful monarch. The treasure he intended to draw like his brother Atahuallpa, chiefly from Cuzco, before the Inca had time to despoil the city. 414 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. Their Inca's freedom all they cared to ask, Each on his shoulders bearing high his load, And singing plaintive songs along the road. With gloating eyes the Spaniards gazed on this, And in the hope of riches found their bliss : But gold, and silver, only fed their greed. The more they had the more the)^ seemed to need. They saw at last their fondest dreams surpassed, Yet but reproaches at the captive cast, For, by impatience urged, they vented spleen, And cried — " Make haste. Too tardily you glean." Suspicions of uprisings, too, had they, And fears that, soon, their wealth might steal away, For miser-like — their treasures brought them care — The heavy load their av'rice made them bear„ " I meditate," the Inca said, " no ill. And all Peru's obedient to my will. But far away imperial Cuzco lies,. And though the city naught to me denies Its wealth, I know, is slow in reaching here, Yet rest secure, and deem me — friend — sincere. To prove my truth, I thither pray you send. And those who go, my pass-word shall defend." Pizarro ordered troops to there explore. And speed the work of gleaning golden ore. And more with Don Hernando * in command To search for warlike hosts throughout the land. But peace prevailed where'er they wandered there. And scent of flowers floated on the air. Vast flocks of llamas browsed on mountain heights, And shepherds lived 'mid pastoral delights, While condors o'er them soared in splendid flights. Gray towns, and hamlets, met the roving eye, And fields of maize, some ripe with golden ears, * Hernando Pizarro, a brother of Francisco's. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 415 And some with green, and tender, sprouting spears, While far below the Cordilleras' crests Flew gorgeous birds with crimson on their breasts. And valleys teemed with colors bright and gay, Which Flora labored grandly to display, And blooming orchards bore their luscious load. And Nature far and wide her bounty showed. The natives gave them welcome oft, in throngs, And danced before them singing plaintive songs, And hospitably gave them of their cheer. Though feeling awe not wholly free from fear. Hernando to a temple came at length—* A building like a fortress in its strength— And overthrew the idol there enshrined, And to its place a giant cross assigned, Then preached the gospel to the heathen round, And rifled buried treasures from the groun I, And added riches thus to fresh renown. At last he heard that near a mountain town f An army lay, toward which he took his way — Across the Andes toiling day by day — ■ And with his scanty comrades faced the host, For martial courage was his proudest boast, And numbers failed to make him feel afraid. Though he so few could summo'n to his aid. The monarch's greatest captain % held the field, And stood in all his majesty revealed With five and thirty thousand at his call, Yet powerless he seemed among them all. He let no words of hostile meaning fall. Nor struck a blow, but yielded to the foe, Who bade him thence to Caxamalca go. And mitigate his hapless sovereign's woe, * The temple of the tutelary deity in the city of Pachacamac. t Xauxa. 1 Challcuchima. 41 6 THE CONQUEST OE PERU. And thither with the Spaniards he repaired, Nor — in his awe — to fight, or question, dared. Then, when his steeds were shod with silver ore — For worn away were shoes that erst they wore — Hernando journeyed backward with his prize. And brightened with his tale Pizarro's eyes. The Indian captain sought his monarch's side, And laid aside his dignity, and pride. He — used to homage — then, a burden bore. And bared his feet, and signs of sorrow wore. " Would," he exclaimed, as he the Inca neared, "That I'd been here when first the foe appeared; Not thus would thou a captive have been made While I, through blood, to rescue thee could wade ; " And weeping, then, he kissed the Inca's hands, And said — "O master, utter thy commands :" Yet unresponsive, he — the Inca — gazed, And heard himself without emotion praised. His noblest vassal lowly to his view, And all the rev'rence rendered but his due, For, still, Peru — though captive — held him king, And all his people loved his praise to sing. Around his person pomp was still maintained As in the days when he in freedom reigned, His houris, and his "nobles, at his beck, The Wautu — turban — worn his head to deck. The crisom horla hanging to his eyes, And all his garments bright with pleasing dyes — Some of vicuna wool — the finest made ; And oft was he in robes of state arrayed — While waited on with reverential care— And what he'd worn another ne'er could wear, But found its way to consecrated flames. * *No utensil or garment used by the Inca could ever be used by another, and whatever was laid aside by him was con- signed to a receptacle kept for the purpose, to be afterwards THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 4^7 The Spaniaids showed respect, and taught him games — To marshal men on mimic fields in chess, And play with dice— yet watched him none the less. XVIII. From the imperial city, known to fame, To Caxamalca, back the Spaniards came, And told of Cuzco's splendors and extent, And how in hammocks they had journeyed there, With gold, and comforts, meeting ev'rywhere. Each crowded town gave welcome as they passed, And Cuzco proved as wealthy as 't was vast, And feasted them in palaces of gold. Pizarro marvelled at the tales they told, The glitt'ring piles of treasure tliey displayed. And all the honors to the Spaniards paid, Nor heeded he the outrage they had done— The sacrilege in temples of the Sun — Their insolence, their viciousness, and greed. Nor all the hate their violence served to breed. XIX. Ere this Almagro joined Pizarro's band With forces, fresh, from New Granada's strand, t Three ships had borne them to St. Michael's bay- Two hundred men equipped in war's array. burned, for it would have been regarded as sacrilegious to make common use of anything that had been touched by him. * They brought with them two hundred cargas of gold— each carga borne by four Indians— besides silver. t Almagro reached Caxamalca about the middle of Febru- ary, 1533, after landing at San Miguel in December, 1532. 4i8 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. With fifty steeds impatient for the fra}^ — And of their comrades' fortunes learning there They sent them tidings, claiming, tlien, their share. Pizarro hailed their coming with delight, And saw in growing numbers greater might. He met his friend Almagro, and was glad; But o'er their meeting Indian hearts were sad. Before this fresh invasion — fatal sign — The captive Inca felt his hopes decline, And with a load of sorrow, hard to bear, He yielded slowly — drooping — to despair. XX. The soldiers clamored for their share of spoil — The fruit of daring, and intrepid toil — And all the Inca's ransom paid in gold — Barbaric but artistic in its mould — Passed into molten metal, as of yore Ere it was fashioned from the virgin ore. Vase, salver, ewer, goblet, urn, and plate, And things of beauty, met a common fate, And into bars, and ingots, found their way. The hands that erst had made them now unmade, And works of art as simple gold assayed, While native craftsmen mourned their wasted skill, And labored to destroy against their will. Of these a few, alone, escaped the wreck Spain's monarch, and her palaces to deck. The splendid booty was divided then, Pizarro dealing shares to all his men. The royal fifth reserving for the crown. And for himself an emblem of renown — A chair of fretted gold — the Inca's throne. * * This was of solid gold, worth twenty-five thoiisand/^j-fj. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 419 Such precious spoils had ne'er before been known, Nor e'er have gladdened since explorer's eyes. A golden triumph crowned the enterprise. The English, French, and Portuguese, in vain Had sailed the seas for such prodigious gain. XXI. The eager Spaniards — " On to Cuzco ! " ciied, Expecting there to treasures, new, divide, And on to grander conquests swiftly stride. The captive Inca said — " My freedom's due. For to my promise I have proven true." Pizarro owned his ransom had been paid, And yet to set him free he felt afraid. ' T was but a coward's fear of future ill That made him dread the Inca's evil v^^ill. And brood in silence o'er concealed designs. " The Inca's star," he thought, " too brightly shines. And, blindly, all who hear his word obey. If freed he'll yearn for all his ancient sway, And to resistance rouse, perchance, Peru. What else can I than slay the captive do .? And yet I would not seem to thus decree de oro, or castellanos, each being equivalent to about three dol- lars and seven cents of United States coin. The total amount of the booty in gold was one million, three hundred and twenty-six thousand, five hundred and thirtv-nine/^j-^j- de oro, the commercial value of which at that time' Senor Clemencin of Madrid, in his Memoirs of the Academy, and Prescott, agree in estimating at about three millions and a half of pounds sterling, or nearly fifteen millions and a half of dol- lars. The silver was valued at fifty-one thousand, six hun- dred and ten marks. The Inca's ransom, however, had not been fully paid, although Pizarro through the notary attached to^the expedition, acquitted the Inca of all further obligation relatmg to it, and this was publicly proclaimed to the camp. 420 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. But leave to others what I fain would see. I'll rouse distrust. The camp for blood will Qxy. Atahuallpa then, methinks, will die, And of the deed, though dark, the blame I'll shun. There's danger here while this remains undone." Ere long 't was rumored Indian hosts would rise, And claim the captive monarch as their prize, And wrest the ransom he had paid his foes, And rain on Spanish armor crushing blows. From lip to lip the startling story flew, At each recital gaining something new. Huascar's friends pronounced the fiction true, And on the Inca all the onus threw, While Felipillo — traitor to his race — Strove hard to bring his monarch to disgrace. The Spanish troops were quick to take alarm, And deemed the sovereign meditated harm. Pizarro, frowning, sought him where he dwelt, And in the rumors feigned belief unfelt. "What treason's this you meditate? " said he. " Is this the gratitude you feel for me Who've, as a brother, always served you well. Your purpose I would learn, and bid you tell." " You jest," replied the Inca in surprise : " For me 't would be to thus conspire unwise. Nor should I e'er, to war, my sons advise. Against the Spaniards vain 't would be to rise, So strong, and valiant, and so swift are they. No thought have I, or mine, of such a fray. Oh, Captain, jest with me no more, I pray ! " And as he spoke his face composure showed, For simulation there had no abode. And on his handsome features played a smile As if to sa}^ — " In this I'm free from guile." 'T was consciousness of innocence that beamed, But this to Spanish eyes deceptious seemed. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 421 " A captive," said the " Inca, here I lie — A helpless pris'ner in your hands am I. How, then, could I the thing imputed plan When I'd be first to fall beneath the ban ? Against my will my warriors ne'er would fight. And well they know your overwhelming might ; " But he to win the Spaniard's favor failed. And naught he said to drown distrust availed. His limbs were chained where they before were free, In which a sign portentous he could see. A stronger guard, and closer watch were kept. And o'er the change his wives, and nobles wept. Still through the camp the baseless rumor flew, And as it travelled more alarming grew. The soldiers feared in force the foe would come, And stood prepared to hear the signal drum. Expectant hour by hour of fresh alarms. And sank to slumber only on their arms. While bridled steeds were saddled night, and day. Thus, racked by dread, Pizarro's army lay, And from the camp was banished all repose, While toward the monarch murmurs loud arose. Almagro's troops declared themselves his foes. " His death," they cried, " our safety will secure, But nothing less can make our footing sure." Pizarro heard, but seemed on this to frown, And brave De Soto scowled the menace down. To him Pizarro said — " Go search the land. And see if insurrection shows its hand. Go where the rumors say the forces wait. On you, perchance, may rest the Inca's fate." XXII. When from the camp De Soto took his way The troops' alarm increased from day to day. 422 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. And on Pizarro calls were loudly made, Which he — as if compelled to yield — obeyed. "Let him at least," the Spaniard said, "be tried, And by the verdict at the camp abide." Twelve charges, then, against him he preferred, And these with wild, and wond'ring looks he heard, For all but one to ancient ways referred — To customs handed down from olden times — And lawful acts were stigmatized as crimes. He looked to find a friend, but looked in vain, Among the bronzed, and bearded, sons of Spain. Hernando, * once his friend, was on the main, And toward Castile, with gold, pursued his way, And from the camp De Soto long might stay. The case Pizarro, and Almagro, tried- No other judge was seated at their side — And Felipillo, as directed, lied. Nor long it took the judges to decide. They found the Inca Guilty, as designed, And on the spot the fatal warrant signed, Which to the stake his body, soon, consigned. " The culprit burn alive," the sentence read, " And this be done before the day hath fled." The priest Valverde said — " A righteous doom ! He merits not interment in a tomb : " But some there were among that martial throng Who now began to feel the deed a wrong, And, thus to do, Pizarro's power denied, And said — " In Spain the Inca should be, tried." Yet overwhelming numbers silenced these, And cried — " We stand by all our chief's decrees. * Hernando Pizarro, who had sailed for Spain, with the royal fifth of the treasure, and to give an account of the achievements of the conquerors to the Emperor Charles V. THE CONQ UES T OF PER U. 423 To all of us the Inca's guilt is clear, And why should we to execute him fear? Let those who will against Pizarro fight, But this we know, — our leader's in the right. And if a few — disloyal to his sway — Should to disorder wish the camp a prey, Then shall their names hereafter bear a stain, And on the record ill appear in Spain." High words to open rupture nearly led, And bitter things on either side were said. But by the strong the weak were swiftly crushed, And Opposition's manly voice was hushed. The mass refused the Inca's life to spare, Yet Justice left her protest written there. XXIII. The tidings quickly reached the Inca's ear, And for a moment filled his mind with fear. His worst forebodings scarce for this prepared. And, where before he'd wavered, he despaired. He felt the blow a thunderbolt of fate, And wept in sorrow o'er his hapless state. " Naught," turning to Pizarro, he exclaimed, " Hfave I e'er done of which to feel ashamed. Why then should I to suffer thus be made. And why should you my person so degrade — You who but friendship have from me received? Alas, for me, so bitterly deceived ! Have I in vain my treasures rendered you? Oh, tell me why man thus to man should do ? I give my gold but hold existence dear. Oh, spare me this, and take whate'er I've here. Twice o'er will I my ransom gladly pay, And o'er my country give you boundless sway, And by a pledge each Spaniard's life secure — 424 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. And rest assured — O Chief — my motive's pure — If you'll but shield me, now, from Death's embrace, And let me live to mourn my fallen race." Pizarro turned, with troubled look, away, But not a word to comfort he'd to say. The Inca's sad entreaty touched his heart, But none the less he'd play his cruel part, And to his soldiers' clamors seem, to yield. The monarch felt his fate already sealed. And all his pleadings with Pizarro vain. And, feeling thus, found courage in despair, And fortitude calamity to bear. Like morning mists before the shining sun His fears dissolved. " The worst," said he, " be done." XXIV. The trumpet's sound through Caxamalca's square Awoke its echoes on the evening air, Proclaiming unto all the Inca's doom. O'er all the vale there hung a pall of gloom. For in the west the sun had sunk from view. And Night her mantle o'er the prospect threw — Night just emerging from the twilight's arms Before the moon had shed abroad her charms. Out in the square the torches shed their glare. And all the Spanish troops had gathered there.* Chained hand and foot the Inca forth was led, And at his side Valverde bowed his head, And said — " Your superstition fling away And at the throne of Grace for mercy pray. The Saviour's blood will wash your sins away," For though the priest to death consigned the chief, * This was two hours after sunset on the 29th of August, 1533- THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 425 And ne'er with pity viewed the captive's grief, He for his soul's salvation strove with zeal To serve the Cross, and glorify Castile, But to the Sun the Inca still was true. Valverde fierce with indignation grew. XXV. The Spaniards to the stake their victim bound, And piled his pyre with fagots all around. _ Once more the Cross Valverde raised on high, And cried—" Embrace you this before you die,— And be baptised, if you to bliss aspire. If so you do, not thus you'll here expire. But, strangled, perish unconsumed by fire." "If this indeed," the monarch spoke, " is true, I'll as you wish in these last moments do." Pizarro said — "The promise I endorse. Unscathed by flames— if so— shall be thy corse." Valverde then, baptised him where he stood, * Exclaiming— " Now you're numbered with the good." The Inca toward Pizarro turned his eyes- Eyes full of thought that seemed to agonize, And said—" In Quito let my dust repose, For there a cedar o'er my mother grows. There I was born, and passed my sweetest days, And uttered first to Phcebus tuneful praise : And for my children, oh ! compassion show. Such bitterness as this they ne'er should know. Around them throw Protection's kindly shield, And may their wounds by time at length be healed. * He was baptised in the name of Juan de Atahuallpa— the name of Juan having been given owing to its bemg the day of St. John the Baptist. 426 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. All those I love I leave in charge to you, And to the world I bid a long adieu." His handsome features, which were stern before, A touch of tender melancholy wore, And all the muscles of his stately frame Relaxed from rigid tension, now, became. While Resignation seemed to lift him up, And stoic-like he drank the bitter cup. Then calmly he submitted to his fate, Nor long for execution he'd to wait. The fatal noose about his neck was wound ; The tight'ning stick was twisted sharply round. And he — garroted — in a moment died, While Spaniards murmured credos at his side From God's avenging wrath to save his soul. And lead him to the Blest's eternal goal. Thus, with their victim's plunder rich, they prayed, And friendship with a murder, foul, repaid. XXVI. Through all the hours of that eventful night. And till the sun renewed its welcome light, The Inca's body, bound and strangled, lay — A ghastly sight to meet the opening day : But then the Spaniards bore the corse away, And, in the church they'd fashioned by the square They o'er it with their dirges filled the air, Aud there Valverde said — " A crown he's won. A new and brighter life he's now begun." His obsequies with solemn pomp were done. And mourning garb the leading Spaniards wore, And feigned to feel with timely sorrow sore — *The Spaniards had altered a native building into a place of worship which they called the church of San Francisco. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 427 A solemn farce which mourning mocked — a show Tliat travestied and counterfeited woe. The air without was full of wailing cries Wiiich to the throne of Grace appeared to rise, And drowned the Spaniards' voices heard within As if rebuking, in their anguish, sin. A rush, and lo ! the doors were opened wide, And women hurried to the Inca's side — His wives and sisters, moaning as they went— And gave to frantic grief the freest vent, And cried—" To us the Inca's rites belong. We'll celebrate them here with prayers, and song. And where he rests our lifeless forms shall lie ; Our duty, and our pleasure, is to die, And, with him, to the land of spirits fly— The bright, and splendid, mansions of the Sun. Our work is done : our race on earth is run." The Spaniards said—" Begone ! why come ye here ? Ye desecrate the Christian Inca's bier," And drove them — howling — from the sacred place — Each with despair depicted in her face. Some slew themselves in secret ere the night, And to the world of spirits took their flight — To join the Inca in the realms of light — And mourning filled the land— a woeful sight Beside the church the Inca's dust was laid. And Spaniards ne'er to Quito this conveyed, But, when from Caxamalca journeyed they. His kindred bore the prized remains away, Nor knew the Spaniards— later— where they lay.* *Tradition says the body was carried to Quito, but the Spaniards long afterward— thinking that treasure had been buried with it— searched there for the remauis ni vam. 428 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. XXVII. Scarce o'er the Inca's form had closed the grave, When coming troops the cry of greeting gave, And forward rode De Soto to the square, While plaudits from his comrades filled the air. " No foe," he cried, " no hostile force I found. The country's peaceful here and all around." He learnt the Inca's fate with keen surprise. And indignation kindled in his eyes. He sought Pizarro with an angry look, And uttered words that savored of rebuke. " Too rash, alas ! " said he, " too rash you've been : No rising wheresoe'er we went was seen. Nor aught I met but friendship on my w^ay. How came you one so guiltless thus to slay ? Why not have sent him to be tried in Spain ? And from his murder what can Spaniards gain ? " Pizarro, wearing mourning garb, replied — " I acted rashl}^, true : Requelme* lied ; Valverde, too, was wanting as a guide. And these, and more, deceived me day by day. And cried — ' Beware ! the Inca plots a fray : ' " But each accused, the charges made denied, And wore an aspect of offended pride. Upbraiding him — Pizarro — for the deed. Thus in the camp was sown Dissension's seed, And words betw^een the leaders mounted high. And rising anger flashed from eye to eye. While each upon the other threw the blame. Their own contention proved their act a shame, And showed their victim guiltless — wrongly slain. His murder, now, the Spaniards felt a stain. . *The Royal Treasurer, who had come with Almagro from San Miguel. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 429 No darker deed Pizarro e'er had done — Than this — against the Children of the Sun, Though greater carnage, far, he'd wrought, and rude, And though in blood he'd oft his hands imbrued. 'T was broken faith, and cruelty refined — 'T was wickedness and treachery combined — To take the life he promised to preserve, And like a foe a friend so basely serve. And time v/ill ne'er a blot so foul efface. The heartless slaughter of a helpless race Ere this had stamped Pizarro deeply base, But doubly base a crime so wanton seemed. And naught its vile atrociousness redeemed. Could Retribution fail to mark the man, And hold him ever after 'neath the ban ? Or, like his victim doom that he should die ? Who can avenging Providence deny, Or from his own accusing conscience fly ? Long after this Pizarro passed away — Red-handed, foul Assassination's prey.* XXVIII. The Inca's death spread universal gloom, And all Peru in this beheld its doom. The Children of the Sun were sore aghast, And saw their ancient glory o'er at last. To other hands the Inca's sceptre passed, And those who'd lived beneath the monarch's sway, And learned to love, to honor, and obey. Like steeds without their riders now were left — *Pizarro was assassinated by Spanish conspirators at Lima on the 26th of June, 1541 ; nearly eight years after the execu- tion of Atahuallpa. 430 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. Of all that erst had guided them bereft. From order to disorder passed the realm, When he — their ruler — left the nation's helm, And old restraints that held in check before Gave way to wild excess unknown of yore. Corrupted by the Spaniard's thirst for gold The natives, who had prized it ne'er of old, With lustful eyes surveyed the glitt'ring ore, And as they gleaned it thirsted still for more, And hid it in the forest, and in caves. And buried it in deep, secluded graves — To guard it from the spoliator's hand Till he no more was ruler in the land. Their chiefs commanding regions far away Asserted, now, an independent sway, And rife was revolution through Peru. The old was superseded by the new. XXIX. Pizarro camped at Caxamalca still. And sought a chief the Inca's throne to fill — One who would prove obedient to his will, And play his part — subordinate — with skill, Through such esteeming he'd the easier rule. He in Toparca found a pliant tool — A brother of Atahuallpa slain — Who humbly vowed subservience to Spain. That Manco was the rightful heir he knew — Huascar's brother whom his kinsman slew — But, to the Spaniards, felt he'd prove untrue, So he with pomp the young Toparca crowned Amid the cannon's and the trumpet's sound, And on his brows the crimson boria hung, And at his feet imperial garlands flung, While Indian vassals, round him, homage paid, THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 431 And Christian priests before him knelt and prayed. Toparca was the reigning Inca now, And all Peru was told to him to bow. XXX. The troops to Cuzco turned their eager eyes, For all in this beheld a dazzling prize — Its palaces, and temples, bright with gold, Ere long to yield their numbers wealth untold. From Caxamalca's square they marched away With banners streaming, and with music gay. Five hundred strong, or less, in all were they, Of whom a third w^ere mounted for the fray. Toparca with the army took his way Borne in Atahuallpa's palanquin — A lustrous mass of crimson, gold, and green — With all the outward signs of high estate As if he were indeed a monarch great, And not the royal puppet of an hour Who held not though he seemed possessed of power. While Challcuchima,* in a litter too. Was chief of his imposing retinue, , Which moved in dense and picturesque array. Their course along the Inca's highv;ay lay, That to Peru's imperial city led Across the Cordillera's rugged bed. And naught the march impeded day by day Until they reached the vale of Xauxa.f Then native warriors gathered by the stream. Which in the sunlight there was seen to gleam, And tore away the bridge that spanned it o'er, * Atahuallpa's foremost military commander, who accom- panied Hernando Pizarro to Caxamalca from the place where his army was camped near Xauxa. t Pronounce Zau-ex-a. 432 THE CONQUEST OF PERU, And stood prepared for action on the shore. The Spaniards all undaunted swam the breach, And landed safely on the sandy beach, When in dismay the Indian army fled. And in pursuit the angry Spaniards sped, And slaughtered all who failed their wrath to flee. Then cried aloud — " We've won the victory ! " And desecrated each barbaric shrine, And placed the emblems of their faith divine — The Child and Virgin — where they'd idols found, And consecrated, all around, the ground, Valverde's voice in prayer ascending high. " 'Tis now," said he, " we feel to Jesus nigh. To Him, and not ourselves, be all the praise." There, in the vale, Pizarro camped for days. And bade, the while, De Soto forward go With sixty horse to face again the foe, The osier bridges torn away restore. And far along the royal road explore. Where e'er he went he saw aggressive signs Suggestive of the enemy's designs — Burnt villages, and barricades of trees, And torrents, that had erst been crossed with ease. Now deep, unbridged, impediments to speed. 'T was hard he found at Bilcas to proceed. For through the air a flight of missiles flew. And here and there a fighting Spaniard slew, But through the wild Sierra on he pressed. Nor paused to give his weary soldiers rest. Then, when entangled in the mountain chain, Fresh missiles on their ranks began to rain. While from the rocky passes thousands sprang, And through the air their cries — resounding — rang. Down like a torrent poured the Indian throng — A multitude whose numbers made them strong — And overthrew the rider and his steed, THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 433 And carried consternation in their speed. Those foremost, cUmbing up the steep ascent, Were backward in disorder — reeling — sent On those — their comrades — toiling close behind, Whose battered steeds careered, confused and blind, Amid the storm of arrows, darts, and stones, Which drew from wounded riders plaintive groans. De Soto saw destruction near at hand, And-strove to kindle courage in his band, And cheer them with his ringing battle-cry. That through the mountains made the echoes lly. " Christo y Santiago I ^^ was the sound That e'en the dreadful din of battle drowned. Beyond the gorge a level plain was seen — With rocks around it — carpeted with green. And madly tried the Spaniards this to gain, Nor heeded — as they went — their comrades slain, Aware that all their dismal fate would share If they much longer lingered battling there. At length they gained the broad and level ground Where horse and rider scope for action found. Once more De Soto made the rocks resound With ringing cries that warmed the warrior's heart, And spurred him on to play a hero's part. Once more was felt the battle's shock severe, And hundreds fell beneath the sword and spear. But firm remained the legions of Peru. Ere long, o'er all, the night its mantle threw. And hid the hosts contending from the view. The Indians felt of vict'ry now secure. De Soto said — " The foe's defeat is sure, For Christ will ne'er desert us in our need. The Christian's triumph — mark me ! — is decreed. But trust in God, and all will yet be well. We'll long survive of this the tale to tell. 434 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. I've tidings sent Pizarro ere to day, And warned him of a fierce impending fra}^ And begged for forces, fresh, without delay. Our comrades, now, perchance, are on the way, And, may be, soon we'll hear their trumpets bray. Repose till dawn, and we'll the fight renew, And to the Cross and Crown be staunch and true." That night Almagro by Pizarro sent — The air with trumpets in their hearing rent, To which their bugles quickly made reply, And echoes all around were heard to fly. 'Twas welcome music to De Soto's ears. And banished in a moment all his fears. Almagro joined him ere the night had flown — While neither moon nor star above them shone — And told how on he'd urged his weary steeds. When tidings reached him of De Soto's needs, In fear that ere he brought his comrade aid He'd in the dust, with all his band, be laid. The morrow dawned magnificently fair. And cool, and breezy, was the mountain air, While with dismay the Indian host surveyed A larger force against their arms arrayed Than on the eve preceding, when the fight Had only ceased as fell the shades of night. " 'T is vain," said they, " to strive with such as these, Whose numbers swell whene'er their leaders please," And ere a blow was struck they fled the scene. Nor where they'd fought before again were seen. The passes now were free to all their foes. Who cried aloud — "In God we trust repose ! " And onward pressed with hope within renewed, And left the wild Sierra's solitude — O'er which they saw the condor slowly sail — THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 435 To camp beyond it in a verdant vale, And wait Pizarro's coniing, and ere long He joined his comrades in a martial song. Then Mass was said, and prayers arose on high — A solemn scene beneath that azure sky — And each invader felt crusading zeal. And vowed to fight for Jesus, and Castile. Thus spoke Pizarro when they'd ceased to pray — " I left my treasure — comrades — on the way * With forty men to guard it night and day, And make the native multitude obey, And there the young Toparco, sad to say. To death, remorseless, fell an easy prey. Methinks that Challcuchima, moved by hate. In secret planned the Inca's hapless fate, And urged to arms the hosts ye fought so well. In him I see an instrument of hell. Yet still he lives though manacled and chained, Nor with his blood my hands shall e'er be stained Until his guilt to all is'rendered clear. A captive thus I've brought him — Spaniards ! — here.'' The captive chief was tried, and guilty found. And to the stake ere night his form was bound, The priest Valverde kneeling at his side Exclaiming — " Take you Jesus for your guide ! " But, unconverted, in the flames he died. And to his god ere dying bravely cried — He who had been Atahuallpa's pride. XXXI. The fagots scarce had burned themselves away — While where the chief had stood his ashes lay — * At Xauxa. 436 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. When toward the camp there came with great display A native noble friendly in design, Who said " By right divine the throne is mine ! " 'T was Man CO, to the crown the rightful heir — Huascar's brother, with a royal air — Who deeming, to the foe, resistance vain, Now sought protection from the sons of Spain. Unheeding those who prayed he'd strike a blow And lay the fierce invading Christians low. Pizarro gave the prince a welcome kind, And said " In me a friend you'll — Manco — find. I journeyed here to serve Huascar's cause, And punish those who'd trampled on the laws." He saw in him an instrument of power To serve the mighty purpose of the hour — A puppet who a royal part could play, And give him o'er Peru a monarch's sway, And said, " To Cuzco onward come with me, And to Castile and Jesus bow the knee ! " On through the wild Sierra sped the band. And soon again were battling hand to hand, But with defeat they overwhelmed their foes. And won, beyond the narrow pass, repose. At length that day, ere sank the sun from view, They near to Cuzco's savage splendors drew, And saw the city gilded by its rays, And showed their admiration in their gaze. Long lines of solid buildings, white and low, Decked out the distance in a golden glow, And gave a look of grandeur to the vale, While mountains round it bared their rugged breasts, And reared on high their sharp volcanic crests. Pizarro lay beyond the gates till morn * * The morning of the fifteenth of November, 1533. THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 437 When through the camp was heard the rousing horn — A signal ev'ry Spaniard round him knew. The leader cried — " The march we'll now renew, And Jesus guard each one to Country true ! " The suburbs with a countless throng were filled, Whose tongues were by their own amazement stilled. To them the spectacle indeed was grand — A pageant foreign to their native land — A startling but magnificent display. In solemn awe they viewed the bright array — The glitt'ring arms, the riders and their steeds, The fierce Pizarro famous for his deeds. The armor that was worn by each and all ; And all they saw but tended to appall. Their bearded faces and complexions fair, The fineness and the color of their hair, Their lofty port, their martial mien, and tread, But wonder through the native legions spread. Were these indeed the Children of the Sun Who'd thus their native land so soon o'errun t And as they heard their trumpet notes resound, And seemed to feel the horsemen shake the ground, They felt themselves but pigmies by their side, And o'er their country's falling fortunes sighed. On toward the square through narrow streets and long— And paved with pebbles — marched the Spanish throng, While through each street a limpid brooklet flowed. And buzzards here and there their plumage showed. Of brick, or stone, but lightly thatched with straw, Each dwelling seemed, the stern invaders saw. And habitations thickly lined the way, Whose outer walls were oft with colors gay. 438 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. The city's square was vast indeed to view, And overlooked by mountains green and blue. On ev'ry side extended buildings low As white — save for artistic forms — as snow — The palaces of Incas now no more, Bedecked within with shining golden ore. O'er one of these a graceful turret rose, Which, wisely, for himself Pizarro chose, While camped his soldiers in the square below Alert to meet — whene'er assailed — the foe. But Cuzco struck no self-defending blow. Though on a rock a fortress crowned the scene — The strongest that Pizarro e'er had seen — And troops in dusky multitudes were there. No missile from its ramparts ploughed the air, But silently it yielded to the strong — Another linklet in the chain of wrong. Down from its stony walls Pizarro gazed. And gazing, far and wide, the prospect praised — ■ The mountains so magnificent and wild, And rocks on rocks in rugged masses piled, And waterfalls that sparkled in the sun. While Cuzco's vale extended far below — Where ceaseless verdure wore a golden glow — The city rising grandly on its face, Combining with its splendor fitting grace, And over all the sky's pellucid blue Enhanced the fascination of the view — A sky but seldom sullied by a cloud. The city's heart a sparkling river ploughed — By bridges spanned at ev'ry thoroughfare — WHiose stony banks displayed artistic care. Thus smoothly flagged — from quarries deep and gray— For twenty leagues, or more, extended they. Four lengthy streets — right angled — left the square — THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 439 Fine pebble-paved, and white as china-ware — And lost themselves in far extending roads Diversified by picturesque abodes, While Cuzco's temple to the Sun inscribed — Which alien language yet has ne'er described — Revealed its golden splendors to the sight In his — the glorious Sun's — refulgent light. The Spaniards gazed around with gloating eyes, And in each fane and palace saw a prize. Then stripped them all for booty, and were glad, While Cuzco o'er the sacrilege was sad. The plates of gold upon the temple's walls And those that beautified the palace halls, By rude despoiling hands were torn away, And sepulchres, where royal mummies lay, Were rifled of the jewels of the dead. And plunder only Spanish av'rice fed. Rapacity was rampant, and the spoil Too well rewarded the invader's toil,* Till — o'er abundant — gold less prized became. And those who'd won it chanced it on a game — For gambling to the Spaniards was delight — And fortunes vanished in a single night. Thus riches swiftly winged themselves away. While one ere sunrise played the Sun away,t And then to desperation fell a prey. Some with their w^ealth sailed — gladly back to Spain, * Sancho, the royal notary, estimated the amount at only t^Q,2QO pesos de ^r^, and 215,000 marks of silver, but other authorities said it exceeded Atahuallpa's ransom. t One soldier as his share of the booty received an image of the sun in gold, and this he lost by gambling in a single night, whence arose the Spanish ^^xo\tx\> Jiiega el Sol antes qice amanezca — play away the sun before sunrise. 440 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. But more were eager greater wealth to gain, And in Peru resolved to still remain, As proud usurpers o'er the land to reign — The hapless country now become their prey. Peru lay crushed beneath the Spaniards' sway. FINALE. Ere long by lust of conquest fired anew De Soto — who'd exploited in Peru, And voyaged back to Spain for forces new — By tales alluring to his banner drew Six hundred men, well armed, with many mailed — The bloom of Spanish chivalry — and sailed To find and sack some new Peru, but failed. Yet found instead the world's most mighty stream, Whose waters like a mirror seemed to beam. But soon, while on achievement bent, he died Beside the Mississippi's splendid tide. That flows three thousand miles with swelling pride — The noble river he had first descried. And o'er it left the flag of Spain to wave — And in it found an undenoted grave,* * De Soto, who had become famous as one of the com- panions of Pizarro in Peru, sailed with six hundred followers, from a Spanish port in 1538 to conquer Florida, a project favored by Charles V. After touching at Cuba they reached the port of Spiritu Santoa nd disembarked. Most of the ships were then sent back to Cuba, and the adventurers, many on horseback, but the majority on foot, commenced their long and weary march. On April 25, 1541, they came to the Mississippi river, which De Soto himself was the first Euro- pean to behold, probably at the lowest Chickasaw bluff near the thirty-fifth parallel of latitude. After wintering on the THE CONQUEST OF PERU. 441 Yet immortality, a courted prize — For love of fame had spurred his enterprise, And prowess he for gold and glory gave. Whate'er his faults we can but deem him brave. De Soto's fate a warning proved to Spain, Who in these regions saw no hope of gain ; So for a span of six long score of years No Spaniard followed these bold pioneers, And undisturbed the Mississippi flowed, And sang alone to savage ears its ode. But now, behold ! how vastly changed the scene. What marvels fill the gulf that lies between ! Columbia, of our Western World the queen. Gives greeting to Columbus from her throne — To him who voyaged to the great unknown And found this New World, now so great and grand Which proved to him indeed the Promised Land. Four hundred years since then have passed away. And mark its wonders, far and wide, to-day ! Columbia stands a monument to him. And through the ages naught his fame can dim. All eyes can see the splendor of his prize, All tongues unite to praise his great emprise. And celebrate his matchless deed of yore. When first the New World wooed him to its shore — The grandest venture that the Sea has known. banks of the river Washita, and meeting with constant dis- couragement, they determined to follow the Mississippi toward the sea, but when in the vicinity of Natchez and on May 21, 1542, De Soto died, and the body of the discoverer was wrapped in a mantle and sunk in the middle of the great river. Those who had been his followers then built boats and escaped down the Mississippi, but it was not until Sep- tember 10, 1543, that they reached the river Panuco — their numbers reduced to 311. 442 THE CONQUEST OF PERU. The New World sings his praise from zone to zone, And with it all the Old World nations vie. Columbus, like Columbia, ne'er can die. He lives immortal, and with laurel crowned — This mighty hero who the New World found. Fain would I still pursue my splendid theme, For in my brain a thousand fancies teem, And in my breast impulsive feelings swell. Which prompt me more than e'er I've told to tell, And paint the Western World's superb career To this the Great Republic's latest year. But life is short, my poem waxes long, And some, mayhap, will weary of the song. So to my readers, one and all, adieu. With hopes, anon, acquaintance to renew-. 'T is sad to part, and, parting, say farewell — A word whose sound is solemn as a knell — But here below we only meet to part, And sorrow waits on joy in ev'ry heart. Yet I would fain still sing Columbia's praise, Who now Columbus crowns with fadeless bays, And all her glory and her grandeur paint — Though well 1 know 't would be in colors faint ; — For words too oft our feelings fail to tell When most divine our thoughts within us swell, And, most sublime, on Fancy's wings we soar. Yes, I could sing her praises o'er and o'er With tireless zest — Columbia, gracious queen, The fairest, grandest that the world has seen. In her Columbus finds his greatest fame — A splendid recognition of his name; And as she greets him from her mighty throne — Her realm as great as e'er the world has known — She grasps his hand across four hundred years. And utters plaudits that, perchance, he hears, THE CONQ UES T OF PER U. 443 While o'er her waves the emblem of the free That tells of glory great on land and sea. May that proud banner wave eternally. Columbus and Columbia hail to ye ! And ever may Columbia greater grow — And from her fountain endless blessings flow — Till all the New World rests beneath her sway. All hail the prospect of that halcyon day ! And let the New World celebrate each year Columbus Day, * and hold his mem'ry dear — All — North and South — America as one, With Peace-winged Progress ever speeding on. * Discovery Day, 1492 — namely, October 12, old calendar; or October 21, new calendar. EXPLANATORY NOTE. In this metrical narrative of maritime and military- exploration, invasion, and adventure — this panorama of discovery, conquest, and colonization — is embraced the history of the New World for the first fifty years after it was made known to civilized man by Colum- bus, by the end of which time Mexico and Peru had been conquered. In this recital is embraced every voyage undertaken from the Old World to the New, and every event of importance that transpired in the New World, during that eventful time ; while the ca- reers of Balboa, Cortez, and Pizarro, as well as those of Alonzo de Ojeda and Ponce de Leon, and their principal companions, have been traced in detail. This detail may, indeed, be considered as super- abundant as the traditional old woman found the Atlantic, when, on the occasion of an unusually high tide, she tried to sweep it back with a broom from the vicinity of her doorstep. But the die is cast. When I made historical accuracy an indispensable condition of my task, I, of course, knew that fact and fancy would often prove as antagonistic as oil and water. But it is something to be able to say, that not a single event of importance in the history of the New World, within the period named, has been omitted from the narrative ; although verse needs to vi EXPLANATORY NOTE. be something more than a budget of facts, and I hope I have not lost sight of that one very important fact. To the works of Robertson, Prescott, Washington Irving, and others, bearing on my theme, I have made constant reference for the facts, as well as to many of the original sources of information from which they necessarily drew their materials, and these I have collated with as much care as if I had been writing a prose history. It was my original intention to bring this metrical history of America down to the present time, in the same chronological order thus far observed, and this purpose I may still carry out ; although, in dealing with events subsequent to the Conquest of Peru, far greater brevity may be expected than marks my de- scriptions of those that went before it. The history of the United States of America is a grand, magnifi- cent and suggestive theme, and if I fail to prove my- self equal to sketching its outlines, and filling in the picture, in fitting verse, it will not be for want of glowing ardor in my task. But I remember that a certain piece of advice, once given to those about to marry, was ''Don't," and perhaps I ought to apply the same advice in the case of my historic muse, and say ^^ Don't''' in soHloquyo Original and unique in American Literature. Tiie Sottg of America aiiil Coliiiiis; OR The Story of the New World: A Greeting to Columbus and ColumMaj and Historical Narrative of the Voyages and Career of Columbus. A Xational and patriotic Poem in celebration of the Four Hundredth Anniversary of the Discovery of America, witli copious footnotes. By KIH&HAN GORNWALLIS. 12mo« Cloth, with illustration, stamped cover, and beveled edges, $1.00. Sold by all booksellers, or sent postpaid by THE DAILY INYESTIOATOR, 52 Broadway, iSTew York. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. Let it be clearly understood that this poem is thoroughly clever, readable and enjoyable. The Avhole is in strong verse having the merit of historical accuracy in every particular. The poem is as large as Milton's Paradise Lost. As lie is well known as the author of a number ot tales and sketches, poems of travel and other works, a fashion is likely to set in to follow the example of Mr. Comwallis in this large epical undertaking. " The Song of America and Colum- bus " will no doubt prove a successful volume in the year of the " World's Fair " Our American cousins are noted for great undei'- takings. This poem has to be included among them. Let us hope Mr. Comwallis may be encouraged to follow up this edition by an illustrated one. There is an inexhaustible quarry for artists in this highly interesting poem. — Tlie Liverpool Mercury, Dec. 29, 1892. 2 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. "An epic poem, having for its fabric all that pertains to the inspir- ing subject, " The Song of America and Columbus," presents to the extent of nearly three hundred pages, a judicious selection from this vast wealth of all that is most picturesque and at the same time, historically most important. The material, possessing in itself the elements of adventure, scenic beauty and patriotism, here loses nothing by being rendered into verse. The poetry is very good, and its value is enhanced, by historical accuracy."— T/ie Cliautauquan for January, 1893. " It is doubly welcome— First, because it is an extremely interest- ing story, written with all a true poet's ardor and zeal, and clothed in language at .once beautiful and [graphic. Secondly, it gives us a complete narrative, in a pleasing form, of the life and adventures of Columbus. Mr. Cornwallis' Song should be read by all who love a charming poem, with an inspiring and interesting subject, set forth in the sublime and impassioned language which a true poet, in lovQ with his subject, alone knows." — Boston Republic. "It has in it some very good lines, showing that the author has some rai-e gifts in the poetic line. The book is worth owning and reading." — New York Journal of Commerce. " A very full and quite accurate history of Columbus' life and achievements in verse. It is quite an agreeable instance of an editor of a financial gazette having the capacity and the leisure and the happy taste and turn for working up so many detailed historical incidents into a no mean epic, and we could earnestly desire that the gifted author might spend a full energy and patience, as well as his undoubted genius upon a poem that should come to stay. All the more one so wishes since he writes with such an evident spontan- ity and joy in his work as to make his readers personally like him. It is quite marvelous what a good general idea one gets from it of the great discoverer's life and work."— iVew York Christian Intel- ligencer. " Rapidly turning the pages we find our poet in the full tide of inspired description. The volume closes with this eloquent apostrophe to the great Admiral."— iVew Orleans Times-Demod'at. " It is the story of the New World told in verse of much merit. It is worthy of a place in literature. This may be appreciated from this extract containing a description of the Hudson River." — Brooklyn Citizen. " An ambitious work, which is virtually the history of America in the age of discovery. That this poetical narrative of the four voy- ages of Columbus was composed out of pure love of the inspiring theme is shown in the spontaneous flow of verse and the genuine enthusiasm which marks the entire production. The,writer's use of the heroic couplet has resulted in many sublime passages."— PM^a- delphia North American. '• Of course it could not be expected in a poem of this length, and embracing such a variety of subjects, that there should not be some inequalities; but there is no doubt that whatever else the author may or may not be, as a novelist or financial writer, he is unques- tionably a poet. The divine afflatus may not inspire him to the same extent as a Homer, a Milton, or a Longfellow, but it is there, if in a lesser degree, and the brain that can weave line upon line in the OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. 3 manner and to the extent we have here is not of the common order. The book is very handsomely gotton up, and will be valuable as a souvenir of a memorable event.'"— San Francisco Daily Report. "Mr. Cornwallis is a fluent and ready writer, with obviously thorough knowledge of the story to be told. His versification is smooth and rhythmic, and his verbal fertility remarkable. It can be said for it that it is graceful, fluent and intelligent, and furnishes a story of America attractive and readable, as well as approximately correct. It is decidedly respectable from a historic point of view." — Chicago Times. " Mr. Cornwallis has shown a laudable ambition, and he possesses considerable power of graphic description in verse. There is a great deal in the narrative which is interesting and well told.''— Boston Congregatioiialist. " As an epic poem the book is worthy of praise, and the lines scan well."— J/o6i7e Daily Register. " His verse is spirited throughout, and he sometimes coins a phrase of striking beauty and originality. The Song is full of high patriot- ism, and a gloriously optimistic view of the nation and the race."— Detroit Tribune. " Among the numerous Columbus volumes, this poem, which is indeed an epic, is entitled to special mention.'''— Boston Traveller. " The descriptive portions are vividly drawn. The Song will no doubt be read with admiration and instruction." — Harrisburg Star- Independent. ' ' The ' Song of America and Columbus ' is sung in a sturdy volume of verse."— C/iicogro Evening Post. " The first part of the book presents in a spirited style ' The Song of America in 1892.' The verse runs in entire smoothness, and bears the impress of sincerity and enthusiasm. The work is a fitting tribute to Columbus and to the great Republic."— C7izcaf/o Herald. " We know more than one financial man who is a poet. The pur- pose of the author is commendable, and we have read poems with far less merit or raison d'etre."— Neiv York Observer. "Thehnes give evidence of the writer's facility in versification, and are marked by much picturesque description."— ^osf on Golden Rule. " The verse runs with entire smoothness, and bears the impress of sincerity and enthusiasm. The work is a fitting tribute to Columbus and the Great Repu;lic."— J?o.sf07? Home Journal. "Mr. Comr.allis' desci'iption of the tropical luxuriance which greeted the eyes of Columbus, and his portrayal of the simple life of the natives is evidently inspired by a thorough sympathy with his subject and with the beauties of nature. His work will doubtless receive all the attention which he hoped for it, and its trifling defects of rhyme and rhythm will escape notice in the midst of so much that is good."— Philadeljihia Evening Item. " We may concede him, beside historical accuracy, a very smooth and on the whole ryhthmical versification. Where the historical 4 OPINIO]SrS OF THE PEESS. method is not too closely followed it rises to quite a poetic height. Many will read his verses with pleasure, and find in them many beauties." — ISew Orleans Ficcvjune. "Ithaspower and fire and vigor."— 5osfo)i Watchman. "The scope of the composition is vast, for this volume embraces descriptive accounts of the four voyages of Columbus, and of the precursors of his great discovery, and the sequel of our national history. This is a great deal to be compressed within the limits of a narrative poem, but the writer's enthusiasm is both hearty and sincere. He carries his readers smoothly over the centuries. The distinction of " The Song " is that it accords unique importance to the industrial grandeur of the United ^taXes,.''— Philadelphia Ledger. "It is full of enthusiasm, and has some striking descriptive ■poQtYy.''''— Philadelphia Presbyterian Journal. " There are many good lines in our poet historian's work. He is a good-natured singer, and certainly does not lack enthusiasm, while the encyclopedic range of his heroic poem demands a wide view of the history of navigation, of the annals of scientific and political progress, and especially of the America that was, that is, and is to be. The volume (certainly takes the reader out of the beaten track of literature, and it may act as an antidote to an unhealthy tendency of the day to go crazy over short stories, dwarfed essays and sketchy work in genera,V— Portland (Me.) Daily Eastern Argus. " It is safe to say that this laudable purpose— historical accuracy — has been achieved. The verse is mellifluous. It contains more of geographical and ethnological information than most text-books in those departments of knowledge. Anybody reading the catalogue of aboriginal tribes is instantly reminded of the enumeration of ships in the Iliad, and in the matter of cataloging, Mr. Cornwallis need not take off his cap to Homer or any other bard. Tiie book as a whole is a very interesting contribution to Columbian litera- ture."— S(i^(«?o Courier. " Mr. Cornwallis is a versatile writer and with a rich vocabulary, and he writes rhythmic verse."— Xansas City Times. " It is a wonderfully fertile and fluent body of rhyme. Though ia conception it is merely a greeting to Columbus and Columbia in one breath, as it were, it expands into a descriptive narrative of the voyages and career of Columbus, not neglecting his precursors even, and describes, finally, the sequel as seen in the United States."— Brooklyn Daily Eagle. " It moves along in a spirited way. Very few, if any, of the salient points of our great country have escaped being apostrophised by this poet before he sweeps into a more heroic strain."— S^ Paul Globe. "It deals with a noble theme in a' dignified and serious style."— Buffalo Neics. " It is written with much smoothness and careful attention in the main to rhyme and rhythm. The volume will be found to be of con- siderable interest."— C/iicago Mail. " He certainly 'rhymes with all the spirit and fervor of an old- fashioned Tpatriot.''— Philadelphia Evening Bulletin. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. 5 " A very clever poem. It is the story of the New World very read- ably put, and should be in all households.'"— Pittsburg Fress. " It reads smoothly and easily. The writer has kept close to the story, and is at no loss for choice language. The book is likely to find favor in the eyes of the reading public."— i'/i^s6u/-^ Commer- cial Gazette. " There is much in the book to entertain, and the sentiment will commend it to the paLtriotic.''— Burlington Hawk Eye. " It is true to historical facts, and at times is really poetical."'— Utica Morning Herald. " It would seem like the work of a lifetime. The whole is at least an earnest, laudable and enthusiastic effort at patriotism."— JVeto Haven News. " Incompatible though they may appear, finance and poetry some- times go hand in hand. Such was the case of the banker-poet, Samuel Rogers, and such is the case of Mr. Stedman. A third illus- tration may be found in Kinahan Cornwallis, editor of the Daily Investigator."— i?os^oH Courier., "There is a good deal of information and study in this volume, and one stands aghast at the labor it implies." — Hartford Courant. " The narrative is given in attractive style. We look forward with pleasurable anticipations to the continuation."— ^4Z6a7i2/ Times- Union. " The volume is well worth reading."— Cmcmna^i Enquirer. " We present the following sample of its general merits, interest in Avhich is enhanced by the fact that few of us know how many tribes of redmen the coming of Columbus started on the road to extinction."— Troi/ Times. " Mr. Cornwallis has produced a poem which deserves something better than a passing mention. We think the public will demand so many copies of this bright, cheery and instructive poem that the author will find his labor of love a good investment."— iV. Y. Sunday Times. "An exceedingly ambitious work. Besides an invocation to Columbus it gives in easy verse, chiefly iambic couplets, the entire history of Columbus and the discovery. The alternate theme is naturally the World's Fair at Chicago, and the book is timely and interesting."— iV. Y. Mail and Express. " He, in his preface, is more severe on himself than most critics will be on his work. It has the merit of heroic endeavor and histori- cal accuracy. To this we might add a freedom from any effort to make the verse a sacrifice to facts. It is easy reading, and will no doubt please many. We give the following extracts.''''— Cincinnati Christian Standard. " This is a successful attempt to put into verse the story of Colum- bus and his predecessors. There are really fine stanzas in these pages, some of which we wish we had space to quote.'''— Boston Z ion's Herald. 6 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. " The fpicturesqueness and beauty of our native Indian names has often been pointed out, but It was reserved for Mr. Cornwallis fully to subdue them to the uses of poetry. He says: '—Chicago Evening Journal. " The author justly claims for this work — a poetic narrative of the history of America— the merit of historical accuracy. In this volume however, we get only one dose of it, and it is not an unpleas- ant one. We give a few specimens." — Boston Morning Star. "It forms an instructive and entertaining volume.''''— '^ Buffalo Enquirer. " A few lines will give some indication of the vivacity and felicity of Mr. Cornwallis's manner. Even more spiiit and invention is dis- played where he enumerates the aboriginal tribes. Homer's Cata- logue of Ships is nothing to this astounding tour de force.'''— Boston Beacon. "There are some glowing pictorial passages."— Gode^/'s Maga- zine. " The many who take pleasure in reading Columbus literature, and who enjoy poetry, will relish this story of the great navigator in heroic verse."— T/ie Springfield (Mass.) Daily News. " The] narrative itself is written with evident care for historical accuracy: the diction is unaffected and respectable."— jBostow Literary World. " It contains many evidences of poetic skill."— iiZ"ar//ord Post. "Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis, who has long been well known as an able and enterprising journalist, and is also the author of novels that have had a fair popularity, has come out in a new role, that of poet. The theme is a grand owe.'''— Montreal Gazette. "When we have read the book through, we are ready to burst forth in the same spirit and sing, ' O Kinahan Cornwallis, not even the Great Corliss ever got up so much steam as you on the Colum- bian theme.' " — The Atlantic Monthly. " Other praiseworthy and instructive books of the quarter have been * * and ' The Song of America and Columbus, or the Story of the New World,' by Kinahan Cornwallis."— Cttrreni His- tory, Detroit. "The rhyming is accurate, the lines are fluent, the history is orthodox, and the whole is probably as readable as any poem of 278 pages could hope to he.'"— New York Evening Telegram. Of " A Marvellous Coincidence "—A strange story of Adventure, by the same author, the Philadelphia Item says—" The story is agree- ably and pleasantly told and diversified with plenty of action and dialogue. Despite the fact that the marvellous occupies a large part in the plot the probabilities are all along fairly well maintained. The plot has certain faults which however do not in any degree mar the reader's interest in the work. The verdict of those who read it will be that it is a tale with an ingenioxis plot, worked out on natural and simple lines of sensational and romantic interest." Mailed free on receipt of 50 cents by the Daily Investigator. Office 52 Broad- way New York . WORKS BY KINAHAN CORNWALLIS. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. The Song of America and Columbus ; OR, The Story of the :N'ew World. " One of the most interesting contributions to the great mass of Co- lumbian literature is a poem, epic in length as well as in some of its aims. If one will dip into the poem he will find something to repay. He will find, to begin with, that Mr. Cornwallis is fully conversant with his theme, and that one of the great merits of the composition is historical accuracy. It is often difficult to be historically accurate and poetic at one and the same time, but this stumblin-gblock has been very cleverly escaped by the author, although he persists in bringing out the facts. The verse is for the most part iambic penta- meter, and it flows as smoothly as any that Pope ever wrote. The diction is of the best, and the thought is often striking. Notice these lines in an apostrophe to Columbia. Wherever there is an oppor- tunity for the manifestation of true poetic sentiment, it is generally employed to good advantage. The work is enthusiastic, apprecia- tive and patriotic, and is well worth reading."— T/ie Evening Dis- patch, Columbus, Ohio, Feb. 18, 1893. " He has gone out of the beaten track and treated his subject in an ongmal poetically descriptive manner. The work is large and com- prehensive, but scarcely deserves the author's own description of be- ing elephantine. Coming at an appropriate time when America is celebrating the quadro-centenary, this effort should do much towards quickening the undoubted enthusiasm which this exhibition is provok- ing, while amongst the many mementoes that will be sought after, the fact of a national poem having been specially published should leave little difficulty as to the form this memento should take. There are some fine descriptive passages, especially in the narrative of the voy- ages. The book concludes with a stately ode anent the Chicago event."— 27ie Brighton Gazette, England, Feb. 18, 189.3. "As an American National and Patriotic poem it has no peer, and the talented author can well feel proud of his brilliant effort."— T/te Harrisburg (Pa.) Telegram. " Mr. Cornwallis has been inspired by a great and stirring theme : yet has not only realized its full requirements, but has endeavored to rise to their height with creditable success."— T/ie Leicester Post, England, Feb. 8, 1893. " Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis has accomplished a gigantic task in writ- ing a poetical narrative of the history of America. This is an attrac- tive way of reading history. That he has made it interesting is undoubted, and the graphic descriptions of the beauties of the vari- ous countries are very vivid."— /Sa^a'.? Journal, London, Feb. 4, 1893. " A fine production. We love to read it. Many people will be fas- cinated with it; and we feel safe in saying that it is one of the finest productions the great event has brought owt:'— Cincinnati Western Christian Advocate, Feb. 15, 1893. 8 OPINIONS OF THE PKESS. " If ever a stupendous poetical task was attempted it was when Mr. Cornwallis began his poetical narrative of the history of America in celebration of the Discovery. There is much that is praiseworthy in it. There is a certain metrical aptness in the verse, and the story is told concisely as well as rythmically. One admires Mr. Corn- wallis's enthusiasm."— r/ie Portland, (Me.,) Transcript. " With a theme so vast and attractive, the whole cannot fail to be interesting. This first volume promises well. To undertake such a work required a boldness not far removed in kind from that which led the great discoverer to embark upon his perilous mission, and one would naturally expect equal boldness of treatment, nor are these expectations unrealized. All through the book there is evidence of considerable dramatic power. Such a work, made melodious by a versifier so skilful, forms pleasant and instructive reading."— TAe Ardrossan Herald, Scotland, Feb. 24, 1893. Adrift with a Yengeance. A Tale of Love and Adventure. The Chicago Tribune of Jan. 16, 1871, says: " In the weak, wishy- washy, everlasting flood of novels it is refreshing to get a really good story now and then, and such is 'Adrift with a Vengeance,' by Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis. The novel is in reality a story of adventure, and the scene therefore constantly shifts, and the hero is led through an amazing variety of adventures, so that an opportunity is afforded the writer for his descriptive powers, and these he applies with no ordinary ability to natural scenery, social life, and manners and cus- toms in' almost everj^ part of the known world. The pages of this novel are literally crowded with pleasant incidents, told in a very graphic way, which has the unusual merit of not being sensa- tional." Tlie Albany Evening Journal of Nov. 25, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Vengeance: " " Although this is, we suppose, a novel, it could with almost equal propriety be called a book of travels or of adven- ture, for it takes the reader all over the world by sea and by land, and introduces him to such odd places and to such droll characters, and everything is presented so vividly and so graphically that it seems more like a true story than a work of fiction. But it is a novel, and one of the very best. There is nothing sophomoric about it, for its author was a mature thinker long before he took up his pen to write 'Adrift.' " The New York Evening Post, of Nov. 5, 1870, says: " Carleton's last success is a novel entitled 'Adrift with a Vengeance,' by Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis, well known as the editor of the New York Al- bion. The scene of the story constantly shifts from land to sea, and by turn lies in all the continents and Oceanica, and the hero passes through an almost infinite variety of adventures to find himself at last in the House of Lords. The work abounds in vivid descriptions of natural scenery and of social life, at one time horrifying us with a bull-fight at Lima, and at another delighting us with a wedding break- fast at Delmonico's. From beginning to end there is not a dull page; the incidents, though crowded, are not out of the range of probabil- ity, and the reader's excitement in the story is always genuine and never morbid." OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. 9 The New York Commercial Advertiser, of Nov. 11, 1870, says: " The story is well told ; the style is easy and natural, and the reader is interested throughout. The writer has a vivid imagination and a graceful pen." The New York Evening Express, of Nov. 12, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Vengeance: " " This tale of Love and Adventure will be de- voured by lovers of fiction, for its marvellous incidents and its thrill- ing scenes, which although given in a style that approaches the realistic and the natural, have all the vivid effects produced in novels of the strictly sensational school. We cannot analyze the story, which combines all the striking incidents of travel and adventure, stereotyped in similar productions, but reproduced by the author with admirable skill and ingenuity, in comparatively new forms which absorb the reader's attention until the close of the volume. To lovers of the marvellous and the exciting we can safely recommend the work as one that will satisfy their most expectant desires." The New York Times, of Nov. 25, 1870, says of "Adrift with a Vengeance: " " Those fond of scenes of thrilling adventure wiU find in this romance ample matter for the most intense interest. The book is fraught with wonderful escapes and recoi'ds of peculiar en- tei-prise. and displays a remarkable knowledge of the varied hunting episodes of strange climes. Parallel with the romance of travel and the chase, there runs the narrative of the course of true love, so that those to whom the * sports of field and flood ' fail of interest, will find the congenial record of the phases of the tender passion amply re- pay the perusal of the volume. Altogether, the book is an excellent type of the popular fiction of the period." The New York World, of Nov. 25, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Vengeance:" "Mr. Cornwallis has undertaken in this volume the task of writing a sensational novel with a moderate undercurrent of sentiment, in which the adventures are numerous and exciting, and the love incident of the most approved character. The plot is fairly sustained, and would, perhaps, have been stronger had it been told in the third pei'son ; but in the narration of adventures this is am- ply compensated for by the vivacity which the personal relation al- ways insures. Although strictly to be classed under the sensational school, and possessing some of its excellent features ' Adrift with a Vengeance' is nevertheless free from the worst characteristics of that style." Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper, of Dec. 10, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Vengeance: " '• Lively in style, graphic in description, with a plot somewhat involved but well worked out, indicating the practised hand of an accomplished man of the world. Mr. Corn- wallis is a master of the ways of society, and his characters are obviously typical." The New York Herald, of Dec. 25, 1870, says: "One of the best satires on the sensational novel of the day which we have read is 'Adrift with a Vengeance,' written by Kinahan Cornwallis. The book is decidedly rich, and ought to be widely read. It is the best thing of the kind published." The New York Evening Telegram, of Dec. 27, 1870, says: " 'Adrift with a Vengeance ' is as exciting a story as one could wish to read. * * Mr. Cornwallis has written a very readable story. He writes in an agreeable style." 10 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. The New York Citizen and Round Table, of Nov. 26, 1870, says of "Adrift with a Vengeance:" "Mr. CornwaUis is favorably known as the editor of the Albion, and the author of a number of entertain- ing books. ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' is his latest work. It is a novel which was published as a serial story in the Albion, and was received with sufficient favor to justify its republication in book form. It is full of adventure of the most exciting variety, and the hero, after passing through experiences sufficiently varied to sup- ply a dozen lives with interest and excitement, finally becomes an English Earl. Mr. CornwaUis writes fluently and with much vivac- ity, and his latest story will be sure of a large circle of interested readers." The New Yor^ Evening Free Press, of Nov. 28, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Vengeance: " " Kinahan CornwaUis is a familiar name in journalism, and promises to become as familiar in literature. ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' is, in fact, a novel of the English stand- ard for cleverness. The author has adopted that autobiographical naivete of narration, which made ' David Copperfield ' and ' Alton Locke ' so famous in their day, but which has since been worn thread- bare with reiteration. In its use— that is, in writing in the first person —an author produces a book either intensely stupid and egotistic, or intensely interesting; and Mr. CornwaUis has succeeded in giving his new novel the quality of intensity in the latter direction. Mr. Corn- waUis must be complimented, therefore, for having done successfully that which can be done only by a master. The general ensemble of the story is ' David Copperfield ' over again. The author of ' Adrift' has in him the elements of a master novelist, and has only to develop them— to express himself. There is need enough, me- hercule, of a great master of fiction in this country. ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' is exceedingly graphic in description and bold in inven- tion—is, in a word, finely imaginative in passages, and abounds in the picturesque, graceful and insouciant ease of the true literary ar- tist. The volume is the hit of the season." The Scottish American, of Dec. 1, 1870, says of "Adrift with a Vengeance :" " This is a tale that we have but to commence read- ing to make sure that we will get to the end of it." The New York Scientific American, of Dec. 3. 1870, says: " Kinahan CornwaUis, the accomplished editor of the Albion, has given us in this volume a very graphic and entertaining story, which combines incidents of social life, travel and adventure in a most thrilling and interested manner. We can cordially commend this book as one well suited to enliven the family circle on the dull Winter evenings." The New York Star, of Nov. 7, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Ven- geance: " "The versatile author of this admirably-conceived and very entertaining story is well known as a journalist of many years' standing. ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' is the story of a youngster, Washington Edmonds, told in the first person much in the style of 'Df„vid Copperfield.' He passes through about as many trials and tribulations as that eminent worthy. The interest is maintained to the end, the dialogue is easy and natural, and the whole book shows itself to be the work of a highly imaginative mind, and an easy, graceful writer. ' The New York Home Journal, of Oct. 12, 1870, says of " Adrift with a Vengeance:" "From a hasty look at the advance sheets of the work, we find them rich, not only in promise, but in performance, that should give Mr. CornwaUis assurance, as they undoubtedly will OPINIONS OF THE PIIKSS. 11 his readers, that he has not mistaken his vocation. Its pages are crowded with incident and adventure and 'hairbreadth 'scapes' in South Africa, Austraha, and upon the treacherous deep, enough to furnish forth many such volumes." The Philadelphia North America, of Dec. 8, 1870, says of "Adrift with a Vengeance: " " He (the author) here tells a vivid story of Eng- lish and American life in an agreeable manner that will be read with interest. * * There is genuine and unflagging interest from first to last." The New Orleans Picayune, of Dec. 3, 1870, says: " ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' is a fiction of varied interest, abounding with adven- ture and striking descriptions of scenery, character and social life. It is crowded with incident." The Chicago Times says: " The author has given us in this book an average of one thrilling episode for every three pages. This wmII constitute the story an invaluable work of reference for all compil- ers of attenuated serials in the weekly family papers, as they can find enough material in ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' to set them up in business for the next dozen years. The author is a veteran writer, and all of his works have been characterized by the same oddity of title and spirit of contents that characterizes ' Adrift with a Ven- geance.'' " The Detroit Free Press says of " Adrift with a Vengeance: " " The story, though leaning somewhat toward the ' Robinson Crusoe ' and ' Masterman Ready ' style of literature, is a lively and entertaining one, filled from title to finis with the most varied of adventures." The Philadelphia Telegraph says: " ' Adrift with a Vengeance.' by Kinahan Cornwallis, from the press of Carleton, is a story of ad- venture which contains many exciting incidents and some highly graphic descriptions of scenery and life in all parts of the world. Mr. Cornwallis, who is well known as the editor of the New York ^4Ziti09i, is an able writer, and in ' Adrift with a Vengeance ' he has produced a very interesting story that is full of life and animation from first to last." The Boston Evening Transcript says: "Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis has, in 'Adrift with a Vengeance,' given us an animated adventurous tale, full of exciting scenes on land and sea, shifting from mid-ocean to Delmonico's, and from Lima to the House of Lords. Extraordi- nary but not impossible, eventful but not hyperbolical, the interest of the tale never flags, and it is full of graphic force and personal zest." The Brooklyn Eagle says of " Adrift with a Vengeance: " " There is abundance of lively incident— fights with wild beasts and wild men, shipw-recks, bull-fights, perilous journeys, narrow escapes, much hardship of all sorts— and the characters of the romance are as diver- sified as the events described." The Philadelphia Press, of Nov. 26, 1870. says: "IMr. Cornwallis has produced in ' Adrift with a'Vengeance ' a story full of action and variety, with many changes of scene and many phases of society." The Cincinnati Times says of "Adrift with a Vengeance:" "The work abounds in vivid descriptions of natural scenery and domestic life, and the incidents are sufficiently startling to enchain the reader's attention to the close." 12 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. The Cincinnati Chronicle, of Dec. 9, 1870, says of "Adrift with a Vengeance:" "Crowded with incidents, and as full of exciting ad- venture as the most exacting reader could demand. This story by turns amuses, horrifies and interests us. The life of the hero is a checkered one, and his experience is sufficiently varied to keep up a constant interest in his descriptions of the phases of social life through which he passes. There are few dull pages in this volume." The Troy Times says: " The style is graphic, and the plot, which is natural, evinces considerable ingenuity. Those who enjoy fiction will be likely to read this book through if they begin its perusal." " Mr. Cornwallis has given the public in this work a novel of more than ordinary interest. The plot is fresh and vigorous, and with love or adventure, or both, delightfully commingled, every page is made attractive. It takes in, and most entrancingly too, everything from a bull-fight at Lima to a wedding breakfast at Delmonico's. The novel will make a hit."— T/ie St. Louis Democrat. " Those who are fond of dare-devil adventures, hair-breadth escapes, and a touching description of man's constancy and devotion and woman's love and fidelity, will read this volume with emotions of unmixed pleasure. There is nothing dull or uninteresting from the first to the last page. There are many passages descriptive of scenery and places which rise into the regions of both the grand and the beautiful."— Sail Francisco Pioneer. " The book contains many glowing descriptions of life and manners in the countries visited by the hero, and will gratify the most insa- tiate appetite for adventure."— iVeit) York Tribune. "Mr. Cornwallis is fertile in imagination, and the multitude of incidents in his story sustains the reader's excitement and interest from the commencement to the happy conclusion."— T/ie Providence (R. I.) Telegraph. Pilgrims of Fashion. Cloth, $1. Published by Harper & Bros. " His Bull Run battle-piece is well executed. The whole work is good, and cannot fail to please numerous readers."— -^ostoTi Even- ing Traveller. " This is a well-written novel."— Cmcmnafi Enquirer. "It is a continued series of healthy observations upon the reck- lessness and needless extravagance of society. The plot is well ar- ranged and handsomely carried out, and the reader can while away an hour in the perusal of the book with ^trofit.''''— Portland Adver- tiser. "It is animatedly written."— 5os^o3i Evening Gazette. " ' Pilgrims of Fashion ' contains many well-directed blows at the worshippers at Fashion's shrine. The plot is excellent, and is well carried out to the end."— iVew York Express. " The work is powerfully and graphically WTittQU,''''— Philadelphia Press. "A work of an uncommon order, and remarkable for its originality and freshness." — Salem Register. OPINIONS OF TUE PRESS. 11 " Unless we are greatly mistaken this work is destined to create a sensation in the literary world. It is artistically constructed; the style is pure and scholarly ; the moral is healthful. It abounds in vivid descriptions of nature and life, and the interest never flaprs from the opening to the closing chapter."— 2'/ie Albany, (N. Y.) Evening Journal, Januaiy 31, 1863. " The characters of his story are artistically delineated, and the descriptions are remarkably fine. The style of the work is pure and refined, and the language is classically English. We congratu- late Mr. CornAvallis on his first American novel, and hope to hear from him again in the same field.''— Frank Leslies' Illustrated News- paper, Feb. 15, 1862. " Pilgrims of Fashion is a very well told and intensely interesting story of both hemispheres dedicated to the author's friend Charles Reade, who brought out the London edition of the work for him through his own publishers, Trubner & Co., just as Mr. Cornwallis brought out for Mr. Reade the first American edition of " The Clois- ter and the Hearth," through Rudd & Carleton of New York, from advance sheets mailed to him. It is full of graphic and picturesque descriptions and dramatic scenes."— T/ie New York Herald. Royalty in the New World; OR, The Prince of Wales in America. With Steel Engraved Portrait of the Prince. Being a Summer Tour through the British Provinces and the United States, in 1860. 1 vol., 75 cents. From the Neiv York Herald. '* Queen Victoria and Royalty in the New World— Among the pleasant souvenirs of the visit of the Prince of Wales to this country we may include the following letter from Queen Victoria, through her Secretary, Sir Charles Phipps, C. B., Keeper of her Majesty's Privy Purse, to Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis, who,as correspondent of this joui'nal traveled with the royal party throughout their tour on this continent. In accepting and thanking him so gracefully for the copy of his book relating to her son's travels, the Queen has paid no common compliment, for it is well known that it is contrary to the usual custom for her to receive gifts of any kind, either from her own subjects or foreign citizens. The exception to the rule in this case shows that an impartial narrative and reliable history, coming from an American source, of the events of the Prince's progress through this country, has been properly appreciated by those most intimately interested. We need only say, in comment, that ' Royalty in the New World ' is worthy to fill the niche so willingly assigned it in the royal library." " Windsor Castle, Jan. 19, 1861. " Sir: It was only yesterday that I received your letter of the 30th of November, accompanying a copy of your work, entitled ' Royalty in the New World, or. The Prince of Wales in America ' destined for her Majesty the Queen. I lost no time in presenting your work to 14 OPINIONS OF THE PEESS. the Queen, and it was very graciously accepted by her Majesty. I hare received the Queen's commands to thank you in her name for your attention. I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant. C. B. PHIPPS. *' KiNAHAN CORNWALLIS, ESQ." " The following letter from Maj. General Bruce, the governor of the Prince of Wales, conveys a merited tribute to tlie accuracy of the book." "Madingley Hall, Cambridge, Jan. 20, 1861. " Dear Sir: I only received two days ago your letter of the 30th of November last, together with two copies of your work entitled ' Royalty in the New World ' and am directed to convey to you the Prince of Wales's thanks for the one which you forward for his Royal Highness's acceptance. 1 am extremely obliged to you for the other, which you kindly present tome, You have evidently striven to give a faiihful narrative of his Royal Highness's progress, and of the gratifying reception which he met with, both in the British Prov- inces and in the United States of America. I am, dear Sir, your obe- dient servant, R. BRUCE. '• KixAHAN Cornwallis, Esq." From the Duke of Newcastle, The Cabinet Minister in charge of the Prince:— "London, Feb'y 8,1861. " Dear Sir: Pray accept my thanks for a beautifully bound copy of your new book ' Royalty in the New World.' My very pressing en- gagements since I received it have hitherto prevented my reading it, but I hope to do so before long. Let me assure you. and those with whom you are associated, how anxiously we all desire in this coun- try to see a happy termination to the troubles which are now afiflict- ing the United States. The accounts from thence are watched with an intensity of interest scarcely less than that which three years ago attached to every mail from India. I am, dear Sir, yours very truly '• NEWCASTLE." "Mr. Cornwallis has embodied a complete history of the royal visit in an exceedingly interesting book of travel, which the pubhc, we are sure, will peruse with much pleasure and profit. As an eye- Avitness of the events which he records, his descriptions, which, for graphic simplicity and vigor could not be surpassed, have a peculiar value, and there is a consequent freshness imparted to his writings, which otherwise would be hardly attainable. We have here, in the handsome volume before us, not only a panorama of the tour, but pictorial glimpses of the history and present state of the country through which he passed. We here meet with much that is new, and much that is both instructive and amusing, and, in turning over the pages, we have been hurried from grave to gay, from lively to severe, Avitia a rapidity worthy of the best of novels; yet, we have noticed throughout, the strictest adherence to the facts, and the most well- weighed words in everything upon which an opinion is pronounced. Every page might be quoted with advantage to the author. But we have said enough to induce our readers to get the work, and judge for themselves."— -ZVetu Yoi-k Herald, Dec. 9, 1880. " Last week, the Critic, our leading literary paper, gave a long, discriminating, analytical criticism of the ' Tour of the Prince of Wales in Arnerica,' by Mr. Kinahan Cornv/allis. and gave it very high praise as a most graphic, sensible narrative."— Extract from the London Correspondence of the Netv York Herald, April 3, 1861. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. 15 A Panorama of the New World. Beiug Travels in Australia and South and North America. In Two Volumes. " Mr. Cornwallis is a pleasant traveller, enthusiastic, persevering-, and overflowing with good spirits. His former works have already taught us to appreciate his perfect fitness for the particular walk of literature which he has adopted; nor will the present work diminish his popularity. A quick and discriminating eye, rapid powers of combination, a true feeling for nature, and a wholesome large- hearted sympathy with his fellow-men, are his leading characteris- tics; and "before we have read thi'ough fifty pages of his book, we claim him as a friend, and wander on with perfect confidence in our guide, wherever he may see fit to lead us. The Panorama is the re- sult of three years of travel, and the variety of scenes which it de- picts, is consequently very great; nor do we think we can do Mr. Cornwallis bettei- justice, than by transferring two or three of these to our own columns. We are indebted to 5Ir. Cornwallis for many agreeable hours. We have met with few descriptions more graphic than our lively author's picture of a first night at IMelbourne. But we are exceeding our limits, and reluctantly take leave of Mr. Cornwallis, with a couple of anecdotes illustrative of Yankee deli- cacy."— I/iierar?/ Gazette, London, July 23, 1859. "A book that will be read; for itMs fresh and sparkling, lively, true, and original. "—iJ/or?? r/i(7 Herald, London, June 7, 1859. " Nothing can be more spirited, gi-aphic, and full of interest, nothing more pictorial, or brilliant in its execution. It is all life and animation ; full of humor and amusement. The poet combines with the wit and judgment of the cosmopolitan to produce a perfect and in every way attractive picture."— T/ie Globe, London. " None, perhaps, have succeeded in making their descriptions so graphic and amusing."— T/ie Morninq Chronicle, London. " His account of the Spanish settlements of Valparaiso, Pisco, Lima, and Panama, ai-e the most entertaining, because the freshest, portions of tliis ' Panorama of the New World.' and shows how readilv an author may amuse and instruct us, wiien he adds to the stock of knowledge."— T/ie Atlas, London, June 4, 1859. "We can give a ready welcome to Mr. Cornwallis's books. There is honesty of good humor about the proprietor of this new Pano- rama, wliile there is in his boisterous talk really much useful infor- mation. Many travellers have visited and written about Australia, but Peru and Panama, through which Mr. Cornwallis returned leisurely to England, afforded somewhat newer ground. This part of the Panorama, therefore, is particularly full of interesting sketches. Of a bull-fight, far exceeding in cruelty the cruelest of Spam, these volumes contain a long and animated description."— r/ie Examiner, London, June 4, 1859. "The work is replete with interest, and contains information on every subject connected with the coimtries of which it treats. . . . The volumes before us demand a detailed critique, for the author has evidently bestowed the greatest amount of attention upon them; and the result is the production of one of the most amusing books of travels ever written, equal, in many respects, to ' Eothen ' and ' The 16 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. Crescent and the Cross.' Having ourselves travelled through the United States and Canada, we can vouch for the accuracy of the description of those countries, their scenery, inhabitants, and man- ners. ... In taking leave of Mr. Cornwallis, we can only express our hope that, ere long, we shall be called upon to notice other productions from his talented pen. Few authors combine so much amusement and instruction. We can honestly recommend the 'Panorama of the New World' to all, classes of readers. "—T/ie Heview, London, June 7, 1859. " He is a lively, rattling writer. His descriptions are never dull. The sketches of Peruvian life and manners are fresh, racy, and vigorous. The volumes abound with amusing anecdotes and con- versations." — The Weekly Mail, London, June 13, 1859. " Mr. Cornwallis seems resolved that the public, who have received his former productions with favor, should not forget him. He now publishes the narrative of the events connected with nearly three years' travels in the West; his first volume being dedicated to Australia, his second to Valparaiso, Callao, Lima, Panama, Toboga, Jamaica, New York, Cincinnati, Detroit, Buffalo, the Falls of Niagara, Albany, Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore, by New York to Boston, and from thence to the banks of the St. Lawrence, Montreal, and Quebec— a goodly line of travel; and of most of those places we have accounts, more or less diffuse, written in Mr. Corn- wallis's lively and amusing style, with occasional glimpses of places on the route. ... He (the author) has produced works, from which the public derive both information and amusement. We ought to be glad of the chance which has procured us such a mental pabulum, and ,wish for a renewal of the pleasure which the graphic description of strange scenes, strange people, and strange events must always give rise to. We could make many more amusing extracts; our limits will only allow us to select the following passage, and we assure our readers they will not regret it, if the specimens we give should induce them to procure this work.''''— Naval and Military Gazette, London, June 18, 1859. " Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis is already known as the author of some amusing books of ti-avels, and his ' Panorama of the New World ' is behind none of its predecessors in sketching picturesqueness and graphic interest. In the first volume, decidedly the most attractive {)art is that in which the peculiarities of colonial life are hit off with ife-hke reality. Life and the mode of trade in Melbourne, the mysteries of ' old-chum mism ' and 'new-chummism' life at the diggings, bush-ranging, hunting kangaroos, and all the other fea- tures of Australian life, are hit off with a life-like reality. Perhaps the ' diggings ' themselves were never better described, than in the pages which Mr. Cornwallis devotes to them at Bendigo. Here is the daily routine of a digger's life dashed off in a few strokes." —The Critic, London, June 18, 1859. " Readers will be pleased with his lively, careless style, and amused with his anecdotes illustrative of society in Australia. . . . The description of the bull-fight at Lima is especially good— perhaps one of the best we have ever seen— but, unfortunately, far too long to extract."— T/ie Press, London. " He has the faculty of describing, in a very agreeable and read- able way, the scenes and people he mingled with or passed through. There are episodes of colonial adventure, which ai'e narrated with a picturesque simplicity and vigor not surpassed by t.Charles Reade. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. 17 He is a shrewd observer, and communicates his observations with freshness and perspicuity. "—T/ie Tablet, London, Angust 6, 1859. " The author of these volumes is already favorably known as one of those ' wandering Englishmen,' who has the faculty of describing agreeably what he sees and hears in his journey ings over the world. The travels of Mr. Cornwaliis have been decidedly extended, and have been previously recorded in works of great merit. His present contribution to the literature of movement, comprises visits to Australia and South America, and his adventures, if not startling, form quite a sufificient basis for the story he has to tell, which ho tells easily, frankly, and pleasantly. The book will repay perusal, and has an air of freshness about it." — The London Illustrated News, July 15, 1859. " As a traveller, the author is well known to the reading public. . . . . Viewed either as a book of amusement, or a work of informa- tion, it will be an acceptable addition to the utile et dulce class of literatuie, which gives in a free and easy style, bold sketches of the striking things incidental to extensive travel. ' Hie et ubique,'' ought to be tlie motto of the accomplished writer of ' The Panorama of the New World,' which we have great pleasui-e in recommending to our readers." — The Sunday 'Times, London, July 3, 1859. ' ' Mr. Cornwaliis has been a gi'eat traveller, and dashes off impres- sions of the countries he has visited in a gay rattling manner. He is a gay observer of manners, with a quick eye for the picturesque and the odd, and with a strong proclivity for the funny. Any one may agi*eeably spend an hour or two over the gay, rapid chapters. The record of his wanderings to and fro upon the face of the earth is amusing, and we award it the possession of interest."— TA* Eclectic Magazine, London, August, 1859. Howard Pliinkett ; or. Adrift in Life. A Novel in Two Volumes, Pi-ice, 21s. "It is a bold, clever book. There is a vigor and exuberance throughout, and in some of the scenes a graphic power and reality. The author has talent and vigor, and the power of writing an amus- ing story."— r/ie Athenaeum, London. " A tale so full of incident, developing so much of character, can hardly fail to be interesting; but that interest is greatly enhanced when, as in the present case, the narrative is well sustained, and the portraits of the various personages are drawn with vigor, and no ordinary ability."— T/ie Observer, London. " The author of this work has certainly great skill in constructing a story, and arranging its component "parts. The characters are numerous, most interesting, and aptly sketched. Striking are the scenes, vigorous the descriptions. Some of the events relating to the young outcast's life, who walks the wilderness of the world alone, are exceedingly well described. We have life in its varying phases pictured before us in many a diverse land. The story commences and concludes at home: but in its course it wanders far and wide, from the bright and rolling waters of the gorgeous Mississippi to the lofty banks of the Yarra Yarra."— ITie Sun, London. 18 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. " The author of this novel has evidently seen much of life, and, moreover, possesses the ability to give vivid reflections of what he has seen. There is, consequently, much to admire in the course of the story; and whether in the old world or the new, at home or at the antipodes, he keeps alive tlie reader's attention, and affords pleasant entertainment. Considerable talent is displayed in the pro- duction of the varied scenes, and the manners of society are hit off effectively therein."— T/ie News of the World, London. '• Worked out with great ability, and no ordinary power."— Jo/mi. Bull, London. " Far superior to the ordinary volumes of the circulating library. Mr. Cornwallis has evidently travelled much and seen much of the world, and some of the best parts of his story are, probably, scenes which he has hiinself witnessed. We have spoken well of Mr. Corn- wallis's poem ' \arra Yarra.' and recognize in him the art of writing well."— r/ie Literary Gazette, London, " It possesses the merit of boldness, vigor, and ease of style. The style is of a fi-ee and dasiiing order, and there is a large amount of very clever writing in the novel. That there is some vivid pictorial matter is evident enough from the following e^traiCty— The Dispatch, London. " ' Howard Plunkett ' is a unique work. This peculiarity is not ow- ing to descriptions of manners and scenery, or to facetiousness. The native coloring is something much more deep]}' dyed than that. There are no bulls in the tale; but the writer's mind seems one huge reservoir of bulls held in solution. There is an audacious impossibil- itv about the book, a genial incoherency, and a bubbhng gaiety, which render the whole quite unparalleled. But exactly because this novel is so real, it is indescribable. The tale must be read to be understood. . . . The elopement and the incidents that followed are described at great length; but we cannot enter on its details, further than to remark that no part of the book shows more conspicuously one of the author's greatest excellences. He makes his dramatis personce talk as people really talk. Thus, for instance, only one sentence of the bride's conversation after her marriage is recorded, but then it is just what a real Angelina would have said. She repeated over and over again, ' I really do wnnrler lohat Aunt Foster will say.' ''—Saturday Review, November 7, 1857, "He can exhibit characteristically, if not dramatically."— TAe Sjjectator. Two Journeys to Japan. Second Edition, Two Volumes, 21s. Illustrated by Colored Plates, from Original Drawings by the Author, " It is full of amusement— lively, graphic, and full of interest. He possesses the art of letting in light upon all the topics which he undertakes to discuss. A real talent for description is a somewhat rare gift, and this traveller really possesses it. Through his pages we, for the flrst time, obtain a time notion of that part of Japan which he visited. The country, under his pencil comes out fresh, dewy, and picturesque before the eye, with its cedars, its camphor- laurels, its tapering volcanoes, its winding valleys, its long sweeps OPINIONS OF THE PKESS. IJ of undulating plains. He certainly possesses a talent for description, and places a series of very striliing pictures before the minds of his readers. But he is not exclusively picturesque; he Hlcewise makes the most of other interesting subjects, as eating, drinking, dressing, bathmg, and worshipping idols."— C/ia?7i6e/-'6' Journal, Ediabui-K. Feb. 12, 1859. " Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis is well known to the British public as an amusing and spirited writer. His books teem with life and activity. When he wanders in a meadow, he brings with him the odor of the grass and the wild flowers; when he mixes with the aborigines, he carries '.from amongst them, fresh and distinct in his memory, the wildness of their gestures and attire, the strangeness of their appearance, and their customs; in fact, whenever he travels, and writes about what he has heard and seen, we feel as if we also had participated in the scenes which he depicts. In concluding, we thank Mr. Cornwallis for his entertaining and lively volumes. He is an amusing, sprightly, and observant traveller."— Da i7u Telegraph, London, March 31, 1859. " His two journeys, as his title-page indicates, were made in 185G and 1857. Each time be enjoyed most miraculous good fortune; for he seemed to carry a spell with him whicli dissipated Japanese suspicion, and procured him all sorts of privileges. It is a paradise of flowered silks, lacquer, yellow, vermillion. ivory, velvet-lined saloons, and fantastic elegancies; and ?.ir. Cornwallis, living the life of Telemachus or .-Eneas in this world of luxury, continually bursts upon some scene even more Eden-like and primitive The poet Spencer, in his Allegro visions, never saw more freely the hun- dreds of nnarrayed damsels dancing, lily-white, in fairy-laud, than this traveller sees the mellow bevies of Japan wading in baths of Boccaecian simplicity; plnnging. like Phrynes, into the seafoam: or standing statuesquely as Greek slaves. Mr. Cornwallis pursues his pilgrimage, admires the latticed and matted liouses. more like Swiss in their toy-Uke symmetry, and then breaks upon a succession of Paradisaical scenes, which he describes with a characteristic unction. The mystery of Japan melts away as we follow 3Ir. Corn- wallis through happy valleys, palaces of sublime mao^nificenco. vil- lages of abstract cleanline.ss, and throngs of digrnitaries in whose presence the world of Japan j^rows pale. All this goes to make up an amusing book. His kn )w]edge of Japan is considerable.'"— T/je Athenceum, London, Feb. 12, 1859. "Mr. Cornwallis has produced a very agreeable and interesting book; qualities which are much enhanced by a number of illustra- tions of Japanese scenery, customs, and costumes, well executed, in chromo-lithography, from his own drawings.— Birmingham Jour- nal, England. " The book has great value in depicting the manners and customs of a hitherto strange people. It is an amusing hook.'"— The World, London. " For bi'illiancy of execution we can compare it only with Eothen: for descriptive power and graphic porti-aiture, we have rarelv read its equal. The author has had opportunities which no other Eng- lishman has had of studying the manners and customs of the Japan- ese."— T7ie Globe, London. " The book is an amusing book, pleasantly written, and evidencing generous feelings."— r/ie Literary Gazette, L,ondon. 20 OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. " We meet Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis on the same easy terms of life in El Dorado, sophisticated London, unsophisticated Nookoora, exclusive Japan— shining as novehst, historian, scientific observer, conversationalist, explorer, and moralist, with unmitigated fluency and startling rapidity."— T/ie Saturday Eevieiv, London, April 30, 1859. " Mr. Cornwallis recently gave us a very good book on the new El Dorado, British Columbia. To that he now adds a very good one on Japan and its people. They who love travel and ad venture,, and wish to inform themselves about Japan and tlie Japanese, will like Mr. Cornv.-allis's work, wherein they will find animated descriptions of natural scenery, and of almost everything appertaining to the customs, manners, and pursuits of the people of all degrees." — Sun- day^:Tiines, London, Feb. 26, 1859. " He saw a good deal of the Japanese and of the country, and gives pretty minute descriptions of all the towns he visited. The account of Nagasaki, and of Mr. Cornwallis's friends, Noskotoska and Tazolee, is very interesting; but for that, and the summary of the history of Japan, and its religion, we must refer to the volumes, which are illustrated by colored lithographs from drawings by Mr. Cornwallis, and will well repay perusal." -iS^ai'ai and Military Gazette, London, Feb. 26, 1859. " There has not been so interesting a book of travels since Warbur- ton's ' Crescent and the Cross.' ''—Scottish Press. " The author has given us two interesting volumes. It (the work) furnishes many charming glimpses of Japanese life. We have risen from its perusal with great pleasure and pro&t.'"— The Constitutional Press, London, Feb. 26, 1859. " What Mr. Cornwallis has here presented will engage the public attention, for it is given in a readable and attractive style: and the scenery, habits and manners, are made to pass in succession before us like a collection of photographic pictures. The author describes all that passed under his notice, during his two visits to Japan, with so much liveliness and ease as to afford much satisfaction, whether the work be taken up for information, or merely the entertainment of a leisure hour; and there is every likelihood of his hterary labors being rewarded by the favorable opinion of the public— T/te News of the World, London, March 6, 1859. " Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis is well known in the literary world as the writer of 'El Dorado.' and other popular productions; and in the work before us we find no falling off whatever. It is beautifully illustrated, is replete with interest, and contains information on every subject connected with the country on which he treats. Not only have we an excellent historical and geological sketch of the country, but a tliorough insight into the habits and manners of the Japanese." —The Eevieiv, London. " These volumes contain a vast amount of information about Japan and her people, clever and amusing."— T/ie Leader, London. " Mr. Cornwallis describes, in very agreeable language, what he saw, did, and heard, during two visits to that marvellous country, Japan. We can earnestly recommend Mr. Cornwallis's book to our readers."- ilibnijng Herald, April 2, 1859. " The author exhibits much knowledge of Japanese life. He has written a very amusing book."— T/ie Neiv Quarterly Review, London, April, 1859. OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. 21 "Few can take up Mr. Corawallis's interesting work without wish- ing it may be their lot some day to visit the islands of Japan."— T/te China Telegraph, London. " Among the guests at the ball given by Gen. Cass on Friday even- ing last, in honor of the Japanese Embassy, was Mr. Kmahan Cornwal- lis a gentleman well known in literary circles m England, and of considerable repute, both as an author and traveller. In the course of his travels he five years ago visited Japan, of which country he afterwards published m England a very spirited description. Two of the present Embassy, who had seen him at Simoda, on meeting him the other day at Washington, at once recognized him. Mr. Corn- wallis has only recently arrived in this country, but it is not his first visit, as in the fall of 1855 he travelled through the Union, and subse- quently embodied his opinions of American men and women m one of his books, entitled 'A Panorama of the New World, which speaks very flatteringly of ourselves, and shows its writer to be a man of wide sympathies, liberal sentiments, and. what is better, few prejudices."— T^e New York Herald, May 2G, 1860. New El Dorado ; or, British Columbia. Dedicated, by permission, to the Right Hon. Sir Edward Bulwer- Lytton, Bart. Second Edition, price, 10s. 6d., cloth. With a Map and Illustrations by the Author. " So little is known of British Columbia, a territory that promises to open up an immense field of enterprise to the mother-country that Mr Cornwallis may fairly congratulate himself upon being, if not the only, at least the most modern, historian of the colony. Sir. Cornwallis tells us, in pleasant language, how he wandered from Cal- ifornia to New Columbia, what he saw there, and what, m his opinion, are the prospects of emigrants, Avhether as diggers or agri- culturists. As a handbook to British Columbia, this volume, which is dedicated, by permission, to the Colonial Secretary, may be recom- mended as authentic, useful, and well timed.'^-The Mormng Post, London. " Mr Kinahan Cornwallis, a gentleman who has had considerable experience of the gold fields of Australia, and who graphically de coHhPri' what he saw and learnt in his work call ' \arra \arra, ^ has sen has lately returned from British Columbia, and having been present al- most from the first at the golden district bordering on the Eraser River, has just published a very interesting account of his sopourn there The work is exceedingly opportune. It is very spiritedly written, and will amuse as well as instruct, and necessarily obtain an immense circulation."— T7ie Observer, London. " The book is full of information as to the best modes existing or expected of reachingthese enviable regions, and of many matters ot commerce, trade, and production. The book i.s therefore not merely SrSng but instructive, and we are glad to find so useful a collec- tion of facts on a movement pregnant with events of which we can as yet only dimly appreciate the full consequences, "-//le Mormng Chronicle, London. 22 OPINIONS OF THE PEESS. " The book gives all the information it is possible to obtain respect- ing the new colony. It is altogether of a most interesting and in- structive character."— T/ie Star, London. " Historical and descriptive of British, Columbia. It will be found both entertaining and useful."— T/ie Sunday Times, London. " There is information in the volume to render it acceptable."— T/ie Athenceum, London. " A highly useful work. The chapters on the ascent of the Fi'aser, and the bivouac beyond the Forks, will be found particularly inter- esting."— A^ews of the World, London, " A book on emigration from the pen of one who hnoivs what he is writing is in the highest degree acceptable, because we find in it more of practice and less of theory. The book is interspersed with much that is animated and interesting, while the geographical posi- tion, climate, and peculiarities of the colony are thoroughly eluci- dated. As a handbook to British Columbia, nothmg could be more useful, instructive, or valuable; and as such, to that class we partic- ularly commend it:'— Weekly Mail, London. " No wonder that this book has gone through a first edition, when we consider the importance of the subject and the admirable man- ner in which it is handled. Truthful delineation of the state and resources of this newly-discovered treasure-laud is its great charac- teristic. As a useful and almost necessary appendage to the emi- grant, this work is entitled to the highest praise; while to those who *■ live at hom_e at ease,' we can cordially recommend it, as containing the most animated and interesting descriptions of a country which may erelong vie Avith, if not eclipse, the golden regions of Australia and California. We lately noticed, in most eulogistic terms, the well-known poem by the same author, entitled ' Yarra, Yarra,' and happy ai'e we to find that in Mr. Cornwallis's case it is not poetas et proeterea nihil. The ' New El Dorado ' will outlive all ephemeral productions of tlie hour, and become a book of reference in the standard library of tra.vels:''— Sporting Magazine, London. " We can recommend it to those who are curious as to the general features which such a region presents, and looking for amusement." —Fress, London. "With all the graphic advantages of a personal narrative, he has gathered a considerable amount of information respecting the coun- try, its inhabitants, natural productions, and resources, which will doubtless be found useful to future adventurers, who will thus go there furnished with all it is possible to convey through the medium of a Avork intended to be amusing as well as useful. The Appendix comprehends a large amount of local and statistical matter, valuable because it is authentic: and a colored Map of that region and Van- couver places before the reader a complete plan and guide to the most important localities named in the text."— T/ie Dispatch, Lon- don. "■ It is a very interesting and valuable work. Extracts from it are beginning to plentifully abound in our papers."— Toronto Globe. "All testimonies, from the very pleasant and interesting book of Mr. Cornwallis to the last correspondence received, agree in attribu- tmg great capabilities of producing wealth, both agricultural and mineral, to the district of Columbia."— Extract from a leader in the London Standard. OPINIONS OF THE PKESS. 23 "Mr. Cornwallis's book will repay perusal. It contains twentj'- three chapters on the new gold movement, its dazzlinj^ prospects, the physical geography and natural resoin-ces of this land of the magic spell, discusses the question of railway communication, and gives us animated pictures of the gold hunters' life. There are some glimpses also afforded us into the manners and beliefs of the Indians."— 2Vie Westminster Kevieio, London. " Mr. Cornwallis is a shrewd man of the world, and has given us a very clear account of the auriferous districts of the country, and of their prospects. His remarks may suggest many a new thought to the emigrant, and his information is precise and well adapted for giving us the knowledge of a terra incognita, and a new colony. Many a man will thank him as his pioneer. In the early stages of colonial life we seldom meet with a work so applicable to the real state of affairs."— T/ie World, London, January 23, 1859. " To give some idea of the state of things as they have been till within recent times, we will make a condensed abstract of a gold- seax'ching expedition made by a very intelligent and adventurous gentleman— Mr. Kinahan Cornwallis — who has recorded his experi- ences in a lively volume, entitled "The New El Dorado, or British Columbia.' ''—Colburn's New Monthly Magazine, London, article "British Columbia," February, 1859. See also the Edinburgh Review, January, 1859, article " Hudson's Bay Territory." "Mr. Cornwallis revels in the primeval wilderness; he glories in pushing up unknown rivers, in penetrating thick jungles, in roaming over horizon-bound prairies, and then returning to the haunts of civilized men to depict, in animated colors, and with his poetic fan- cies, the scenes that he has witnessed when far removed from the influence and attraction of modern society. The general reader will find much that is of an entertaining character to beguile a leisure hour. "— C7a'>i« Express. Tlie Wandering Aborigine. A Poetical Narrative in Thirteen Books. Fifth and cheap Edition. Price, 2s. " We have already spoken well of Mr. Cornwallis' poem, and are glad to find, by this new edition, that the public agree wuth us."— T/ie Literarg Gazette, London. " It is a book that will be read— yes, and relished— by many. Its veiy wildness has a charm for such of our feelings as are unsophis- ticated; and the boldness with which it breaks through all conven- tional restraint is refreshing in these days of civilization-worship. It is misty: but gleams of brilliant light traverse the haze, and strains of Nature's sweetest music blend with the confusion. Mr. Cornwallis is a bold and honest writer; and his work displays some very high imaginative qualities, with vast and varied e.xperience of men and countries."- T7ie Illustrated Neivs of the World, London. " This poetical narrative is bold, picturesque, and full of ardent feelings. What the author had to do, he has done well. It has arrived at the honor of a fifth edition, which speaks considerably- in favor of the poem."— 27te Dispatch, London. 24 OPINIONS OF THE PliESS. " The Australian ' Hiawatha.' ''—The Guardian, Loudon. " Tliis clever poem, which on its first appearance attracted some attention, has reached its fifth edition, a circumstance which goes far to confirm the verdict passed by the public upon its merit. It loses none of its interest by re-perusal. The verse is smooth and flowing, and the interest of the subject retains its original freshness." —The Weekly Times, London. " The plan and execution of this volume, which has already gone through five editions, are entitled to the highest commendation. The subject, Australia, in itself so interesting, and so fitted for poetical expansion and illustration, is treated with no less judgment than skill, and the author fully succeeds in awakening the most delicate feelings of our nature. The story of his love for Quillah Quah is very naturally introduced, and her melancholy fate patheti- cally described; man's natural affection for the land of his birth occupies a few interesting pages. The fondness with which we recur to pleasures long past, and to friends separated by death, the re- quiem to the fallen brave, are touched upon with uncommon felicity. The author's address to Nature, ' Oft have I stood and viewed fair Phoebus rise,' is animated and poetical; and in a strain equally flow- ing, sweet, and affecting, Mr. Cornwallis soliloquizes over the waters of the Arno. The observations on Australia will be read with great satisfaction, as they prove that the writer's prose is as animated, just, and insti-uctive, as his poetry is spirited and chaj'acteristically appropriate."— S^jor^mg Magazine, London. "There is strength and beauty in this poem. Love is the grand theme of the author."— 27ie Court Circular, London. See also Dickens' " Household Words," London, July, 1858; article on " The Savage Muse." My Life and Adventures. Two vols. London, 1859. Dedicated, by permission, to Sir Edward Bidwer-Lytton, Bart. "The author's power of language in thus depictmg most im- minent and perilous situations is perfectly irresistible, and has the effect of conveying the whole scene with fearful distinctness home to the imagination of the reader. ' My Life and Adventures,' for the vigor of its descriptions, carrying along with them an equal amount of instruction and amusement, is deserving of unqualified praise. — The Leader, London, April 7, 1860. " It is both amusing and instructive."— T7ie Observer, London. "His descriptions display power, and the style has the merit of carrving us quickly over its pages."— T/ie Literary Gazette, London, April 21, 1860. Wreck and Ruin. A Novel. 3 Vols. London, 1860. The Crossticks. A Novelette. 1 Vol. London, 1858. A Strange Story of Adventure. A MARVELLOUS COINCIDENCE; OR A CHAIN OF MIS- ADVENTURES AND MYSTERIES. By KI^AHAiV CORXWALLIS. Paper, 50 Cents. For Sale EvervMhere, and mailed free on receipt of price. The Daily Investigatou I ffice, Gii Broadway, New York. " A story which is decidedly out of the beaten track. Critics must agree with one accord that it gives tliem, in the unravelling of the plot, several touches of the unanticipated. Blrs. Zachary Fenwick in a quiet Massachusetts village has a series of experiences calculated to excite the envy of any dreaming maiden who has longed to become the central figure in a novel. The adventures and reappear- ances of the two missing boys are told in an original and graphic way w-hich furnishes entertaining reading for lovers of fiction." —Kansas City Journal. "It is composed of lost children, shipwrecks, South Sea islands, mining camps and the like stirring events and odd places. It is impossible enough for Jules Verne, but at the same time is quite readable."— 2'0T«?i Topics, N. Y. "A pleasing American novel. It is a chain of misadventures and mysteries from first to last, and it engrosses the attention of the reader from the beginning until the very last page has been perused." San Francisco Call. " It has some fun, some wisdom and a fair share of incident, and one strong situation."— Commfrc/a? Advertiser, N. Y. " A ' Marvellous Coincidence,' is in the author's happiest vein. It is a story of American life in which the necessary love theme is skil- fully blended with incident of stirring adventure. Treating essen- tially of American life Mr. Cornwallis has applied his moral to certain national traits in its character with impressive strength and force." —Home Journal, N. Y. Published in the " Seaside Library," price 30 cents, and in " Lovell's Library," New York, price, 25 cents. ADRIFT WITH A VENGEANCE : A Story of Love and Adventure. By Kinahan Cornwallis, Author of "Pilgrims of Fashion," a novel; "Royalty in the New World; or, the Prince of "Wales in America," with a steel-plate portrait of the Prince, a narrative of travels; " A Panorama of the New World," a narrative of travel in North and South America and Australia, (2 vols.); "Howard Plunkett," a novel, {2 vols.); "Wreck and Ruin, or. Glimpses of Modern Society," a novel, (3 vols.); "My Life and Adventures," (2 vols.); " Two Journeys to Japan," (2 vols.), illus- trated by the author; "The New El Dorado; or, British Columbia," a narrative of travel, illustrated; " Poems of Travel," &c.,