Chapter XVIII: Front Matter (18)

_Mexico_, says he, lying in a Valley between high Mountains, hath seventy Leagues in circumference: The Valley being Oval, is for the most part interspers’d with Lakes, which the _Indians_, and after them the _Spaniards_ have digg’d, only the Lake which washes _Mexico_ is natural; and to stop the Water-falls, there are Banks and Sluces every where: The Flood before _Mexicalcingo_ flows a Fathom and a half higher than before _Mexico_. The four other Lakes to the Northward have much more Water than the _Mexicalcingo_, of which, some have scarce four, others but three Leagues in circumference; when as _Mexicalcingo_’s Lake reckons fifteen, and _Mexico_’s sixteen. On the breaking of the Banks, _Mexico_ hath often suffer’d great damage, wherefore the Vice-Roy _de Valesco_ took special care to make a vent for the Water through the lowest Mountains; whereupon the Countrey being Survey’d, the Northern Coast near the Village _Gueguenoca_, was found to be the most convenient. But about the manner of letting the Water out, the Surveyors could no ways agree; most of them were of opinion to dig Channels, into which the Lakes might discharge their Waters; others, thought best to make a Gutter under Ground, which last _Valesco_ put in hand with unhappy success, because the Laborers who under-min’d the Ground, were choak’d with the falling in of the Sand, or stifled with the sulphurous Vapors rising out of the Earth: Nevertheless, they gave not over the Work, though they began it quite another way, for a _French_-Man, call’d _Henry Martin_, advis’d to deepen the River _Quaiotitlan_, which falls into the _Laguna_, and by that means make it a Bay, into which the _Laguna_ might pour her over-charg’d Waters: Which design, though contradicted by the Jesuit _John Sanchez_, was put in practice; by which means the Water fell in a short time so much, that they could walk dry to the Cliff _El Ponnel_, lying a League from the City; wherefore they continually labour’d on this Work, till such time _Conde de Getues_ came over for Vice-Roy, who judg’d the Charge to be unnecessary, nay Commanded the Ditches to be broken down, which stopt the Water along the Silver Mines of _Pachuca_, that he might see exactly how much it would over-flow _Mexico_: After which the Flood rose yearly higher and higher; till at last, _Anno 1629._ a mighty Rain falling, swole the _Laguna_ in such a manner, that it over-whelm’d all _Mexico_, wash’d down the Houses, all Merchandizes which could not endure the Water, were spoil’d, and had not they had innumerable Boats to help them, thousands of People might have perish’d in this Deluge: But at last, _Henry Martin_ restor’d again the fore-mention’d Channel to its former Perfection, and brought the Flood which fell down out of the Mountains within the Banks of the River.

[Sidenote: Stately Palaces.]

_Quantitlan_ digg’d also a Channel of eight thousand Fathom long, and made an Arch’d Sewer under Ground of the same length, which Sewer hath at every two hundred Fathoms distance, Vent-holes, and a hole of sixty Fathom deep, and by this means, diverting abundance of Water, they dry’d _Mexico_ in a short time: When the Banks and Streets began no sooner to appear, but they fell to work to raise the Ground, and to lay Bridges, and also to build more Boats. The Citizens likewise found it convenient to make another deep Sewer for the carrying away of more Water, notwithstanding it requir’d twenty years labor. The River, which in a manner runs through the middle of the City, is curb’d by a Wall; a crooked Bridge, with many Arches, and of a long extent, leads to the City, in which stand many brave Palaces, with pleasant Walks of Trees about them; the Cloysters of several Orders of Fryers, appear with high Spires and Turrets, above all other Buildings.

[Sidenote: And Monasteries.]

The _Franciscans_ have here four very sumptuous Buildings: The first, Consecrated to St. _Francis_, stands in the uppermost part of _Mexico_, within a large square Court, and on each a pleasant Walk of Trees: The Cloyster it self is very high, and trebble Wall’d, with Towers and Galleries about it: In the middle of the City stands another Tower’d-Cloyster, call’d St. _Jago_. The third lies a little distance from it, which being built long, hath a stately Turret, and is call’d _Maria de Rodonda_. The fourth, not far from the first, but much smaller, is nam’d _San Diego_; these belong to the _Franciscans_. The _Augustin_ Monks are also no way inferior to the _Franciscans_, for magnificent Structures, with spacious Halls, high Towers, and rich Balconies: The first is denominated from St. _Augustine_, just behind which appears _San Pabla_, less stately than the rest. St. _Sebastian_, near the _Laguna_, is built in manner like a Church, whose Tower ends like a Pyramid. The Cloyster _San Cruz_, belonging also to the _Augustines_, built square, stands near the Market, in the middle of which stands a stately Fountain: The Court within inviron’d with thick Walls, amazes the beholders by the pleasantness of its situation.

Moreover, the _Dominicans_ inhabit two brave Cloysters; the chiefest Dedicated to St. _Dominic_, is eight square; to which is adjoyning a pretty large Church, with a Steeple: The second, which stands on one side of _St. Jago_, and consists of three several Structures, is call’d _Collegio de Porta Cœli_. Opposite to _St. Jago_, near the great Market the _Jesuits_ have a stately Colledge, or High-School, where many are brought up in the Latin and Greek Tongues, whence it is call’d, _Casa Professa Les Estudios_.

There is also another Habitation of Religious Men, call’d _Illefonse Sanna Noviciad_, which for State, may vie with any Royal Palace.

[Sidenote: Cloysters belonging to the _Monks_ of _La Merced_.]

The _Monks_ of _La Merced_ dwell in two Cloysters, both Consecrated to the Virgin _Mary_, yet Sirnam’d _Montseratte_, and _Carmel_: The first lying not far from the River, is a mean Structure, in comparison to the last; the uppermost Tower of whose Temple appears above all other Buildings, in the upper part of _Mexico_ near the Cloyster of St. _Francis_.

[Sidenote: Womens Cloysters.]

The Women have also fourteen Cloysters here, the chiefest whereof is Dedicated to _Catharine_ of _Siena_; but much more splendid is that of _Santa Teresa_, built like an Imperial Palace; famous for its stately Gardens, and round Fountain, which continually spouts Water. The rest, which we shall onely name, are _La Encarnacio_, _Santa Ines_, _Jesus-Maria_, _Laurenso_, _Las Des-calcas_, _Santa Clara_, _Juan de la Penitentia_, _Regina Cœli_, _Santa Monica_, _las Rocogidas_, _Jeronymo_, and _Conceptione_; besides the Almshouses, _Real de los Indios_, and _Nostra Senora del Amor_: There are likewise eight Hospitals, _viz._ _de Dios_, _del Spiritu Santo_, _Juan de Doys_, _de la Misericordia_, _de san Hippolito_, and _de san Lazaro_. The three chief Churches bear the Name of _Catharine_, _Martin_, and _Vera Cruz_; and the Clergy-men thereto belonging, enjoy many stately Palaces, amongst which are _Juan de Lateran_, _de Christo_, and _las Nivas_.

[Sidenote: The Vice-Roy’s Palace and Arch-bishop’s Seat.]

The Residence of the Vice-Roy which lies near the _Dominican_ Cloyster, _Porto Cœli_, is so sumptuous a Structure, that it may stand in competition with any of those Edifices which were so much cry’d up by the Ancients; nevertheless, it is not to be compar’d to the Arch-bishop’s Seat, built round like a Theatre, whose Luster expresses the Quality of him that inhabits the same, he being Governor of the Bishopricks of _Fascala_, _Guaxaca_, _Mechaocan_, _New Galicia_, _Chiapa_, _Yucatan_, _Guatimala_, _Verapaz_, and the _Philippinas_. This marvellous Structure was begun by _Ferdinand Cortesius_, but was finish’d by _Sebastian Ramires de Fuenleal_; and not much inferior thereunto is the _Casa de Cabildo Alameda_.

[Sidenote: The gallantry of _Mexico_ at this day.]

At present, _Mexico_ is thought to be one of the richest Cities of the World, abounding (if reports be true) in all kind of voluptuous gallantry and bravery, even to excess: It is suppos’d to contain about six or seven Miles in compass, and to consist of above an hundred thousand Houses or Families, whereof not the tenth part _Spaniards_, but those that are, all Gentlemen, at least as to their garb and manner of living; for they live most splendidly in all respects, both for Diet and Apparel.

For the first, we have spoken so much already of the general plenty of all things in the Kingdom of _New-Spain_, that pertain to this part of pleasure, that it is not to be doubted: And for the second this may be some instance, _viz._ that it is no extraordinary matter to see an Hat-band or Role all of Diamonds, in some ordinary Gentlemans Hat; and of Pearl among the common Citizens and Tradesmen. The Coaches (which most Gentlemen keep) almost cover’d with Gold and Silver, richly beset with Precious Stones, and within ordinarily lin’d with Cloth of Gold, or the best _China_ Silk that can be gotten; of which Coaches, in time of year, at the _Alameda_, as they call it, which is, as it were, _The Hide-Park of Mexico_, and a place made of purpose for recreation and delight, a Man shall observe not seldom, above a thousand or two thousand Coaches, full of Ladies and Gallants coming thither onely to take the Air, and their Pleasure, both the one and the other attended with a numerous Train of Servants and _Mulattoes_ of both Sexes. In _la Plateria_, which is but onely one Street in _Mexico_, nigh to the Vice-Roy’s Palace, in less than half an hours space: with the turn of an Eye, you may see Millions of Wealth in Gold, Silver, and Precious Stones, in the Goldsmiths and Jewellers Shops thereabouts. In a word, there is nothing hinders _Mexico_ from being the most absolute City in the World for delight and bravery, but onely two Inconveniences to which it is subject: The one is the danger of the Lake, with the Infalls whereof it may seem to be almost continually threatned, and in the Year 1629. did actually suffer a very great calamity, the Waters breaking through the Banks, and drowning a great part of the City, with the destruction of much People, and the loss of all their Goods intirely, through the avarice (as is suppos’d) of the Vice-Roy that then was, and some other of the King’s Officers, who diverted the Money that should have been employ’d for the fortifying and repairing of the Banks, to their own proper uses: The other is from the nature of the Soil and Ground it self on which it standeth; which is found to have a tincture of _Sal_ Nitre in it, somewhat strong; and the Winds partly from the Lake it self, and partly from the Hills about it, raising the Dust of this Earth constantly every Evening, for many Moneths of the Year together, so violently, that the Air is even darkned therewith for some time: The Inhabitants are much annoy’d by it, and made subject to divers Hypocondriacal Pains and Infirmities, and sometimes kill’d with it, especially such as either cannot, or care not much to avoid it.

The City lieth about sixty Leagues, or a hundred and fifty Miles distant from the _Atlantick_ or North Sea, from whence by the Port of _St. John d’Ullua_, or _Vera Crux_, (which are the usual Landing-places) there is a fair and easie March to _Mexico_, by the Cities of _Xalabar_, _Perotta_, _Puebla de los Angelos_, and _Tlascalla_, all of them open and unfortifi’d Places, (as likewise _Mexico_ it self) and the Countrey round about very rich and well accommodated with all things.

[Sidenote: City _Chulula_.]

The next City of note in ancient times was _Chulula_, which being built in a fruitful Plain, had above twenty thousand Dwelling-houses, and as many more Banquetting-houses. The number of the Temples and Turrets were equal with that of the days in the Year: The Government thereof belong’d to a Mayor and six Aldermen, and one chief Priest; for they never went upon the least Design before they had been at their Devotion; in which the Priest’s Office was onely to perfume the Idols four times in twenty four hours, _viz._ in the Morning, at Noon, after Sun-set, and at Midnight; at which times none durst be absent, but they us’d also a cruel Exercise on themselves, and one much more cruel on others, for on usual Feast-days they abstain’d from Meat, Drink, and Sleep, scourg’d their Bodies with knotted Cords after a miserable manner, evacuated their Seed, that so they might curb all fleshly Desires, and met every Night in a spacious place, where sitting down they wounded themselves with Lances in their Legs and Arms, so long till the Blood gush’d out of the same; which gathering in a Cup, they anointed their Temples therewith, and dipt the Lances in the same, and then hung them up before the Temple in Bundles of Straw. Of these were a great number, and the more, because they never us’d their Lances but once. But on these Days, which were Consecrated to the Idol _Tezcatlipuca_, every one besides the Priests wore a new Rope made of the Hemp _Mangey_, of a Fathom long, and a thick Knot at the end, with which they beat themselves so miserably on their Backs, as if they intended to have broken them: After which the Priests stay’d five days in the Temple, in which they us’d the like cruelty, eating scarce once in twenty four hours.

Their Prisoners they us’d after a most horrid manner, _viz._ in their Temples stood a round Stage of Stone; to the top of which they ascended by a Square Scaffold, supported by twenty eight Pillars; behind which appear’d thousands of Mens Heads, and amongst them the Prisoners that were to be Offer’d sat stark naked, and guarded by several Armed Men; three Foot from the Steps which led up to the top of the Scaffold, stood a pyramidical Stone, (by the _Indians_ call’d _Quauxicalli_) and behind it two round Chappels, cover’d on the top like Mitres, each had four Holes in a large Gate, in which sat a horrid Representation, worshipp’d by six Priests call’d _Chackalmua_, whereof one call’d _Papas_, or _Topilzin_, whose Office was to pluck out the Hearts of the Prisoners, being in greatest esteem, wore a red Mantle about his Body, not unlike a long Coat, with broad Fringe, which trail’d after him upon the Ground, and also a Crown of green and yellow Plumes on his Head; his Ears and under Lip were likewise adorn’d with Precious Stones: The other five appear’d in like manner with their Hands and Faces painted red, but having Leathern _Fascia_’s about their Heads, and white Coats stitch’d with Black on their Bodies, they might easily be distinguish’d from the _Topilzin_; who on a sudden ran down the Stairs to the Prisoners, and shew’d each of them an Image, (saying, _This is your God_) made of _Bledo_ Paste, _Maiz_ and Honey, green Beads for Eyes, and Grains of _Maiz_ for Teeth: whereupon the Prisoners were led up, and laid with their Backs on the sharp Stone _Quauxicalli_; then the five Priests took hold of their Leggs, Arms and Head, put woodden Collars about the Sufferer’s Necks, whilst the _Topilzin_ shew’d Reverence to the Idol; which done, with a sharp Stone he cut open the Breasts of the Prisoners, who in a deplorable condition lay on the pyramidical Stone, and pulling their Hearts out of their Bodies, shew’d the same reeking to the Sun, and at last threw them toward the Idol, and the dead Bodies down the Stairs, where some appointed for that purpose carried the same away; but every one taking his own Prisoner, and roasting and boyling him, serv’d him up to his Friends as a great Dainty.

This kind of Murdering was not onely us’d amongst the _Mexicans_, but also by all the other neighboring _Indians_, and especially in the City _Chulula_, which (as we have said before) signifies _The Sanctity of all the Gods_: for in this Town six thousand Children were yearly Offer’d.

The Citizens hereof us’d to drive a great Trade, especially in _Cochinele_.

Their Habits were several; for Persons of Note wore Cotton Coats, about the Edges of which hung Feathers and pieces of Cony-skins: the meaner sort went in _Nequons_, or a sort of Linnen Coats made of the hairy Leaves of the Tree _Maguey_.

3. The City _Tezuco_, full of handsom Streets and fair Houses, is built near the salt _Mexican_ Lake, yet hath no want of fresh Water, with which it is supply’d by Gutters from the Mountains under Ground, according to _Anthony Herrera_, it twice exceedeth in bigness the famous City _Sivill_ in _Spain_.

4. _Quitlavaca_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Venezuela_, (because it is, like _Venice_, surrounded with Water, and divided into several Isles,) boasted formerly above two thousand Families: From the Town a Cawsey of twenty Foot broad, and half a League long, leads through the Lake to the Main Continent.

5. _Yztacpalapa_, a very populous Place, and lying part of it in the salt Lake, and partly on the Main Land; where several fresh-water Pools afford store of Fish, two Leagues distant from _Mexico_, to which leads a broad Way; in the middle of which stands a Fountain, surrounded with high Trees, which produces excellent Water.

6. _Mexicaltzingo_, situate upon the Lake _Laguna_, a Town consisting of four thousand stately Houses.

7. _Cayocan_, in a fruitful Plain, containing six thousand, being but a League and a half from _Yztacpalapa_: to which the neighboring Village _Houcilopucho_ was not much inferior.

These three Places, before they were subdu’d by the _Spaniards_, boasted many brave Temples and high Towers, whose lustre appear’d at a great distance, but now being turn’d into Cloysters, they are inhabited by Monks and Nuns.

The Salt made here of Earth, though not white, and onely fit to make Pickle of, is Transported to many Places.

[Sidenote: Towns and pleasant Villages about _Mexico_.]

About _Mexico_ there are also several Villages, the chiefest of which are 1. _Mastitlan_, a Town pleasantly seated upon the top of an huge Mountain, in the midst of most delicate Groves and shady Woods, and reckon’d to contain no less than thirty thousand Inhabitants in all, dwelling either in the City, or upon the sides of the Mountain.

2. _Antepecque_; this is a Town belonging to the Marquess _de Valle_, who is of the Posterity of _Cortez_, and said to be seated in the most delicious place of all _New Spain_.

3. _Acapulco_, a Town seated upon the South-Sea, or _Mare del Zur_, yet belonging to this Province. It is a haven-Town, and one of the most frequented upon the South-Sea, situate upon a large and capacious Bay of about a League broad at the Entrance, and affording many convenient Stations and Docks for Shipping. At the bottom of the Bay Westward lieth the Town, with a strong Castle very opportunely built, both for the command and security of the Port, well wall’d and fortifi’d with Bulwarks, and having a constant Garrison of four hundred Soldiers in it, or thereabouts. The reason whereof, I suppose, may be chiefly this, _viz._ that from this Port there is the greatest Traffick and Entercourse held betwixt the _East_ and _West-Indies_, together with the _Philippine_ Islands.

[Sidenote: Silver Mynes.]

The Countrey hath many rich Mynes of Silver in it, and some of Gold; the chief of which are by _Herera_ reported to be these, _viz._ 1. Those of _Puchuca_, fourteen Leagues distant from _Mexico_. 2. Of _Tasco_. 3. _Talpuiana._ 4. _Cultepeque._ 5. _Zacualpa._ 6. _Zupanguo_, and divers others.

The rest of the Villages are _Guatitlan_, _Tenyauca_, _Escapusalco_, _Tacuba_, and _Suchimilco_.

[Sidenote: Strange Fountain.]

The neighboring Province _Xilotepeck_, which is exceeding fruitful, is also famous for two Fountains, whereof one near the Village _Queretaro_ produces boyling Water, which when cool’d, is a wholsom Drink for Cattel: The other for four years is full of Water, and for four years after it is empty; in great rainy Seasons it is quite dry, and in droughty Weather it overflows.

Between the Villages _Queretaro_ and _San Juan_, is a Plain which extends it self seven Leagues in breadth, and seven in length, besides two Leagues farther beyond _Quartero_, where a hundred thousand Head of Cattel, and ten thousand Horses, find plentiful Pasture.

[Sidenote: The wonderful Mountain _Nevada_.]

The Mountain _Nevada_, near the City _De los Angelos_, deserves no small admiration; for it begins at thirty Leagues end to rise exceeding high, and being flat on the top, hath a wide gaping Mouth, whose bottom is fathomless; from which at Sun-rising and setting rises a Smoak up directly towards the Skie, but immediately after spreading like a Plume of Feathers, it is dispers’d by the Wind, and no more seen till it appears in a dusky Cloud. With the Smoak are also Ashes vomited up; yet the Mountain is very pleasantly planted with lofty Cypress, Cedar, Oak, and Pine-Trees. The neighboring Fields abound likewise with Wheat, Cotton, and _Maiz_. There seldom appears any Rain here.

At the Foot of this Mountain lies the Village _Tepecco_, famous for the Crystal and Allom gotten there. The Village _Ocotlan_ is also maintain’d by the same: But _Tuculala_ by Gold-Mines, and fruitful Lands, which are twice a year shaken by Earthquakes; wherefore the Inhabitants live not in Stone Houses, but in little Straw Huts.

South-Eastward from _Nerada_ is excellent Sugar to be had, and on the Mountain it self the famous Gum _Anime_, which drops out of a Tree call’d _Jetaiba_, which is always green, with hard white Wood, a pale yellow speckled Bark, three long soft Leaves hanging one over another on one Stalk, and the Fruit on the middle of the Body. After the rainy Season is past in _October_, then they cut a Hole in the Body of the Tree, out of which the Gum drops: it hath a pleasant smell, and is exceeding good against the Head-ache occasion’d by Colds.

Not far from hence appears the Valleys _Matalzingo_ and _Atzompam_, which have excellent Pastures, in which _Diego Nunnez de Camargo_ bred forty thousand Sheep out of two in ten years time.

And these are the chiefest Towns, Villages, and Countreys, which surround the famous City _Mexico_.

[Sidenote: The first Foundation of the City of _Mexico_.]

Concerning the erecting of this City, the _Indians_ relate thus: That the seventh Family of the _Navatlaca_’s, Extracted out of the Countrey _Aztlan_, rang’d up and down not without thousands of Inconveniences, from one Countrey to another, according to the Information which their Sages had given their Spirit _Viztliputli_, till at last some of the Priests straying from the Army, or rather Multitude, got into a Wilderness, full of Brambles and Thorns, and came at length to a Place where was a Spring of clear Water, in which the Fishes glitter’d like Silver; where taking up their repose that Night, their Spirit inform’d the oldest of them in a Dream, that they should find thereabouts a _Tunal_ Tree (whose Leaves grow out of one another) under which, on a Stone, lay the Heart of the famous Sorcerer _Copil_: This _Tunal_ Tree should be discover’d by a Crane on the top of it, which in one Foot should hold a Bird, and in the other a Bough of the Tree, near which they were to build a City: The old Priest waking, and relating his Dream, every one endeavor’d to find out the fore-mention’d Tree; at last they found it, by discovering on the top a Crane, with spread-out Wings looking up towards the Sun, and holding in his Claws a small Bird, invested with curious Feathers: Whereupon they with all speed built a Chappel of Turf and Clods of Earth, and cover’d the same with Canes, to keep their Idol from the Weather, resolving, so soon as they could, to build him a better Temple.

The Lake on whose Isles they setled, abounded with Fish and Fowls, which they exchang’d with the neighboring People for Stone and Mortar for the building of a Temple for _Viztliputzli_, and a new City; to which they made a Cawsey in the Lake _Laguna_, and divided it into four great Wards or Divisions, and subdivided them again into lesser; over which they plac’d peculiar Idols, and order’d a Crane like that which they had seen on the _Tunal_ Tree to be their City Arms. The dividing of the Wards occasion’d great dislike amongst the Grandees, judging those to whose lot they fell, not to be worthy of them; wherefore deserting the same, and travelling along the Lake _Laguna_, they setled themselves at last in a sandy Soil, which they call’d _Tlattellulco_, and entertain’d a bitter hatred against their Countrey-men who kept the four Wards of the new _Tenustitan_, doing them all the mischief they could; wherefore the Assaulted were necessitated to chuse a King, that they might be the better able to oppose their Enemies: But that they might not raise a Discontent amongst themselves about electing a Governor, they judg’d it fittest to take a Foreigner; amongst whom they found none so capable of so great an Office as _Acamapixtli_, Grand-son to the King of _Culhuacan_, whereupon sending Ambassadors thither, they obtain’d their desires.

The new King was no sooner Crown’d, but he settled all things in order with great Prudence, insomuch, that _Mexico_ grew daily to be more famous and fear’d: But this sudden growth rais’d a jealousie amongst the Neighbors, who dreaded their growing Power and Valor.

[Sidenote: Proceedings between the _Tapuneca_’s and _Mexicans_.]

The _Tapunecans_ who were also a valiant People, being the nearest to them, and having _Azcapuzalco_ for their chief City, made it their main design, utterly to root out the _Mexicans_, before they grew to be more Populous and Potent; notwithstanding they had hitherto receiv’d Tribute from them, for delivering the Lake _Laguna_ to them, which was a quantity of Timber and Plants; yet they demanded not only more Tribute than formerly, but also in such a manner, as was thought impossible to have been perform’d, which was, that those Plants which were formerly brought to them, as growing on the Land, should be set in the Water, so as to come floating to them, as they grew, to _Ascapuzalco_, which if they did not pay, they should expect to be all put to the Sword. The _Mexicans_ much amaz’d hereat, and not knowing how to produce the demanded Plants, _Viztliputzli_ inform’d the oldest Priest, that the demands might be satisfi’d; and commanded him to throw Earth on the Water, and to Sow Seed on the same, which at the usual time produc’d _Maiz_, _Azi_, _Chias_, _Tomates_, and the like, with which the _Tapunecans_ being satisfi’d, demand next a Goose, and a Hen which laid Eggs, out of which the young ones should appear, when on the floating Clods of Earth, the Nests came opposite to _Azcapuzalco_, which by the advice of _Viztliputzli_, they perform’d fifty years one after another. Mean while, _Acamapixtli_ (who had inlarg’d _Mexico_ with Streets, Palaces, Temples, and Markets) dying, would not name any one to succeed him, but left the choice of the Election to the Commonalty, who Crown’d his Son _Vitzilovitli_, and Marry’d him to the King of _Tapunecans_ Daughter, that by that means they might gain his friendship, and be eas’d of their strange Annual Tribute: Whereupon _Ayauchigual_, the King of _Tapunecans_ Daughter being Marry’d to _Vitzilovitli_, was within twelve Moneths deliver’d of a Son, which the Grand-father call’d _Chimalpopoca_, which signifies _A Gun which gives Smoke_, and afterwards was satisfi’d with two Geese, and some Fish yearly from the _Mexicans_, onely as an Acknowledgment that they inhabited his Countrey. _Chimalpopoca_ loosing his Parents, in his tenth year was Crown’d King, with a Bowe and Arrows in his left Hand, and a Woodden Sword in the right: Soon after he oblig’d his Mothers Father to be kind to the _Mexicans_, for they being in great want for fresh Water, he had leave by Channels to bring the same out of the Mountain _Chapultepec_, a League distant from _Mexico_; to which purpose they made a Pipe of Planks, and hollow Trees joyn’d together with Clay, quite through the Lake; but this Pipe not being teight and durable, and the fresh Water by that means mixing with the Salt, they sent Agents to _Azcapuzalco_, to request Stones, Mortar, and Work-men to make a substantial Sewer: This message was ill resented by the Council of _Azcapuzalco_; _What_, (said they) _do the_ Mexicans _think, shall a rambling company of people, which on Charity live in anothers Countrey, Command those that Govern them to be their Servants?_ This grudge went so far, that at last they took a Resolution without the King’s knowledge, (for he was suspected, because of his Grand-chil’d _Chimalpopoca_) to forbid all manner of Trade with the _Mexicans_; nay, to endeavor utterly to root them out; yet some judg’d, that they ought to spare _Chimalpopoca_, while others on the contrary said, _That he ought to be destroy’d, because his Father being a_ Mexican, _he would to the utmost of his Power defend his People_; which last being approv’d of, so troubled the King of the _Tapunecans_, that he dy’d of grief; for the Design being soon after put into execution, and the _Tapuneca_’s breaking in the Night into _Chimalpopoca_’s Palace, Murder’d him; which Murder made the _Mexicans_ thirst for revenge; whereupon, setting themselves wholly against the _Tapunecans_, they enter’d into a League with _Vezcuco_, and _Culhuacan_, and chose _Izcoalt_, for his great Valor, for their King; notwithstanding _Acamapixtli_ had begotten him on a Slave.

[Sidenote: _Izcoalts_ success against the _Tapanecas_.]

_Izcoalt_ was no sooner Crown’d, but he made great preparation for a War, though against every ones Opinion, because of the Populousness of the _Tapunecans_; yet it was concluded on, that they should request Peace, and a place to inhabit on the main Continent, that so they might remove from the Isles: This Request they thought could not be deny’d them in _Azcapuzalco_, provided the _Mexicans_ brought their Gods thither, and wholly conform’d themselves to the manners of the _Tapunecans_, for otherwise they could expect nothing but utter Ruine: Yet though every one else imbrac’d the Proposal, _Tlacaellel_, the King’s Nephew, stiffly oppos’d it, alleging, that it did not agree with the _Mexicans_ quality, to make so mean and slavish a Proffer; and that they had best consider, first if there were no other means to be found: and that he would willingly venture his Life in going to _Azcapuzalco_, as a Spie, to pry into their whole Designs and Intentions, which was perform’d accordingly; and soon after returning, he brought information, that the _Tapunecans_ were making great preparations for War, and made no mention at all of Peace; which news struck a general fear into all Peoples Hearts; many desiring that they might save themselves by flight; but _Izcoalt_ putting fresh courage into them, made an agreement with the People, that if he was beaten by the _Tapunecans_, they should eat him up; but if he prov’d Conqueror, they should all be at his Command; to which all consenting, they boldly march’d with their King to the City _Azcapuzalco_. The Front of the Army consisting of the prime Nobility, was led by _Tlacaellel_, and the Rear _Izcoalt_ brought up, who was also to give the sign on a Drum, when they should fall upon the Enemies; who having ten Men to the _Mexicans_ one, suddenly Sally’d out of the Gates, where they were so briskly entertain’d by _Tlacaellel_, that in a confus’d manner they soon ran back into the City, whither the Conqueror pursuing them, got within the Gates, where he put all to the Sword which he could meet with; some fled to a steep neighboring Mountain, whither being also follow’d, they threw down their Arms, and begg’d Quarter, to serve the _Mexicans_ as Slaves, which was granted them, whilst _Izcoalt_ found an unvaluable Mass of Treasure in _Azcapuzalco_, and distributed the Conquer’d Countrey amongst those who had behav’d themselves best.

This Conquest made the neighboring People jealous of the _Mexicans_, whose Success and growing Power they dreaded.

[Sidenote: The _Cuyoacans_ utterly subdu’d by _Tlacaellel_.]

The Towns _Tacuba_ and _Cuyoacan_, though they had Governors of their own, yet were subject to the _Tapunecans_, whose General advising those of _Azcapuzalco_ to try another Encounter, they took up Arms again; but before it came to a Battel, the _Cuyoacans_ play’d a subtile trick with the _Mexicans_, for inviting them to an Idolatrous Feast, after they had Eat, Drunk, and Danc’d, they forc’d them to put on Womens Apparel, to their no small disgrace and ignomy; which remain’d not unreveng’d, for the _Mexicans_ made a Poysonous Fume in the Gates of _Cuyoacan_, which made Women with Child to Miscarry, and many to fall dangerously sick; yet lastly, both Parties march’d into the Fields, where whilst _Izcoalt_ was elsewhere ingag’d, _Tlacaellel_ marching about, came upon the backs of the _Cuyoacans_ with such eagerness, that they fled to a strong Temple, which soon after was set on fire by _Tlacaellel_, who pursu’d the Enemy ten Leagues.

This Conquest stir’d up the _Suchimilcos_, the first Family of the _Navatlaca_’s, to stop the proceedings of the _Mexicans_, that they might not, as they had already done to others, fall upon them; to which purpose they thought to surprize the Conquering Army; but _Tlacaellel_ who led the Van, march’d in good Order to meet the _Suchimilcos_, fell resolutely upon their whole Army, and after a short conflict, put them to flight, and took the City _Suchimilco_ for _Izcoalt_, who being Crown’d King there, Commanded the Conquer’d to make a direct Road betwixt _Suchimilco_ and _Mexico_, of four Leagues long, both, that a Trade might the easier be drove between these two Cities, and to keep them the better in awe: Notwithstanding these examples, _Cuytlavacan_, a City built at the Lake _Laguna_, trusting to the abundance of Boats, which the Citizens knew how to use with great dexterity, daily molested _Mexico_ with them by Water, whereupon _Izcoalt_ resolv’d to send his Victorious Army thither, but _Tlacaellel_ opposing the same, promis’d to subdue the Rebelling City with a considerable number of Boys, which had skill in the managing of a _Canoo_, which being permitted him, he accordingly made himself Master of _Cuytlavacan_, from whence the Boys brought a great Booty, and divers Prisoners, whom they sent as an Offering to _Vitzlipultzli_.

[Sidenote: _Tezcuco_ submits to the _Mexicans_.]

These unheard of Victories being spread far and near, mov’d _Tezcuco_ after several Skirmishes and Conflicts with _Tlacaellel_, to submit to the _Mexican_ King, who chose the Governor thereof for his Prime Councellor. _Izcoalt_ Deceasing, after having Reign’d twelve years, his Son _Muteczuma_ was chosen his Successor; the Election and Coronation being perform’d after the following manner.

[Sidenote: Coronation of _Muteczuma_.]

The new King mantled in Tygers Skins, was led into the chief Temple before a Hearth, on which burnt Fire both Night and Day; not far from which stood the Throne, where sitting down, he Offer’d Blood, which was taken from his Cheeks, Ears, and Legs; after which, an Orator Congratulated him, in the name of the Nobility; which done, they ended the Solemnity in a great Dinner, Fire-Works, and Dancing: At the same time it was establish’d, that all Future Coronations should be kept with an Offering of Provisions, fetch’d by the King out of the Enemies Countrey: wherefore _Muteczuma_ going to the Countrey _Chalco_, took several of the Natives, whose reaking Hearts he Offer’d to _Viztlipuztli_: Which done, the Coronation follow’d, to which an innumerable company of People came flocking from all the neighboring Provinces: Those which were Tributaries, brought Presents with them, before which the Heralds carry’d the Coats of Arms belonging to the Nobility of _Mexico_, in a good order.

[Sidenote: _Muteczuma_’s Brother taken Prisoner by those of _Chalco_.]

[Sidenote: An example of great Fidelity.]

Soon after the King’s Coronation, he march’d and fell upon _Chalco_, the Inhabitants of which defended themselves very Valiantly, took _Muteczuma_’s Brother, among several other Prisoners; to whom the Conquerors proffer’d the Government; which at first he refus’d, but at last accepted of on this condition, that a high Mast should be erected with a Scaffold on the top, which made every one suppose, that _Muteczuma_’s Brother did in that manner aim at a high Election, but he at the appointed time, getting on the top of the Mast, call’d with a loud voice, and spake to the taken _Mexicans_ which were there present to this effect: _Chalco seeks to set me on the Throne, the Heavens will not permit it; learn by me rather to die, than to live and be guilty of Treason to your Countrey_: which he had no sooner said, but with some Flowers which he held in his Hand, threw himself down from the Scaffold, which so inrag’d the _Chalcoans_, that they immediately slew all the other _Mexicans_ that were there present; which not long after was reveng’d by _Muteczuma_, who not onely subdu’d _Chalco_, but several other Provinces, leaving onely _Tlascala_ unattempted, that the _Mexicans_ might have a neighboring Enemy to fetch Prisoners from for their Offerings, and also by Skirmishing with them, train up their Youth in Martial Discipline.

Thus his Predecessors and he, having Conquer’d divers Provinces, insomuch that he was now become absolute Emperor over a vast Tract of Land, he resolv’d to settle the same in good order; to which purpose he erected Courts of Judicature, with good Laws; built a stately Palace and Temple; ordain’d several Customs to be observ’d in Religion; which done, and having Reign’d twenty eight years, he Deceasing, left _Ticocic_ for his Successor.

[Sidenote: Description of the Temple _Cu_.]

The foremention’d Temple was call’d _Cu_, being built of Stone, in form like a Serpent, of an exceeding bigness, in the middle thereof there was a spacious open place, and round about it Habitations, two Stories high, the lowermost for the Inferior Priests, and the uppermost for the High Priests; in this place also above ten thousand People Danc’d in a Circle, on all high Feasts; four great Gates fac’d the like number of broad Streets, each two Leagues long: On the outmost Gate stood large Images, the Front of black Stones, Painted between each Lay with red and yellow Colours, no less Beautiful than Artificial: On each corner of the Temple were plac’d two Marble Statues of _Indians_, sitting with their Arms stretch’d out, and holding a Candle, and on their Heads Plumes of Feathers: Thirty high steps led up to a round place, set about with Deaths-Heads, which was a Stage appointed for the slaughter of those, whose Hearts were to be Offer’d to the Diabolical gods, and whose Heads, their Bodies being eaten, were brought back to the Priests, who hung them under the Stage, where every Head hanging till it dropp’d off, the vacant place was immediately supply’d with a fresh Head. At the end of the Stage stood two Chappels, cover’d like a _Cardinal_’s-Cap, in one of which sate the Image of _Tiztlputzli_, and in the other _Tlaloc_, to which led a hundred and twenty Stone steps.

But besides this stately Temple _Cu_, _Mexico_ boasted nine more, standing not far asunder in a large Plain, all adorn’d with curious Imagery, and set out with large Pillars, each being Dedicated to a peculiar Idol, and built with magnificent Apartments, for the Priests to lodge in; the chiefest of them Dedicated to an Idol call’d _Tezeatlipuca_, or _Lord of the Humble_. This Temple was ascended to by eighty steps, and had before it a spacious Court; within a low and broad Gate appear’d a high Vail, which open’d into a spacious square Hall, hung with Tapestry, at the end whereof stood large Images, and beyond which were several Rooms, in which Assemblies met, Scholars were taught, Judges sate, and Priests Resided.

[Sidenote: _Tlacaellel_ resigns the Kingdoms to _Ticocic_.]

[Sidenote: _Axayacan_ chosen King.]

But to return again to _Muteczuma_, his Funeral was no sooner finish’d, but the four Prime Councellors were attended by the Commissioners of _Tezcuco_ and _Tacuba_, in order to the Election of a new King: _Tlacaellel_ being the chief amongst the Dukes, was by a general Vote Saluted King, as being most worthy thereof, for his special Services shown in behalf of the Empire of _Mexico_: But he humbly refusing the same, was desir’d to Nominate another, whereupon he making choice of _Ticocic_, _Muteczuma_’s eldest Son; the Council immediately bor’d a hole through his Nose, and hung an Emrauld in the same. But before he receiv’d the Crown, he was forc’d, according to the Custom, to fetch in some of his Enemies for an Offering, which though he perform’d, yet he lost more _Mexicans_ than he took Prisoners, not without sufficient testimony of Cowardise; which being ill resented by the People, he was Poyson’d in the fourth year of his Reign, and succeeded by his Brother _Axayaca_, by the appointment of _Tlacaellel_; who having attain’d to a great Age, and left the Charge of his Children to the new King, departed this Life, to the great sorrow and grief of the whole Empire; by the States whereof he was Bury’d with great Solemnity.

[Sidenote: His Victory against the _Teguantepecks_.]

In the mean time, _Axayaca_ went with a considerable Army to the remote Province _Teguantepek_, to fetch Prisoners to be Offer’d at his Coronation; and marching before alone, Challeng’d his Antagonist, the King, to a single Combat, which he refus’d, and chose rather to fall upon _Axayaca_ with all his Forces; whereupon, the _Mexicans_ cunningly feign’d flight, ambuscaded themselves till the Enemies pursuing them, gave them their desir’d advantage, for rushing out of their Ambuscade, they set upon the _Teguantepecks_, so disorder’d, that they easily put them to flight, and had the pursuit of them as far as _Guatulco_, a noted Haven upon the South-Sea; from whence _Axayaca_ returning Victor, receiv’d a Crown for a Reward; yet notwithstanding these Proofs of his Valor, the Lord of _Tlatellulco_ Challeng’d him; whereupon he sent Agents thither, with proffers, that since the Citizens of _Tlatellulco_ were of one Blood with the _Mexicans_, whom they deserted upon the dividing of the Wards and Towns, just before the Election of the first King _Acamapixtli_, they should, if they pleas’d, be receiv’d anew into fellowship and alliance with the _Mexicans_, acknowledging one and the same King for their Supreme Head and Governor: But the Ambassadors being scorn’d and laugh’d at for their proffers, returning, related the same to _Axayaca_, who immediately marching thither to take revenge, sent part of his Army to fall on the Enemy by Water; whilst himself falling upon them by Land, put the Lord of _Tlatellulco_, with his whole Army, to flight, which was so closely pursu’d, that they forc’d their way into the City with them, put the Governor to Death, and laid the Town in Ashes; those which went by Water, having had no less success.

[Sidenote: _Autzol_ succeeds him.]

_Axayaca_, after eleven years Reign, Deceasing, bequeath’d his Crown to _Autzol_, who sought to promote his Election by ingaging with the mighty Province _Quaxutatlan_, whose Inhabitants, though but a little before, they had been so bold as to demand Tribute of the _Mexicans_, yet terrifi’d at the approach of _Autzol_’s Army, fled over an Arm of the Sea, where they had been secure, had not _Autzol_ invented a floating Isle of Planks, by which he got over his whole Army; upon which the amaz’d _Quaxututlans_ immediately submitted themselves to the _Mexicans_, who pursuing their Victory, extended their Dominions to _Guatimala_, over a Tract of three hundred Leagues.

[Sidenote: _Autzol_’s Generosity and Magnificence.]

The new King having now subdu’d all his Enemies, and made himself glorious by his Victories, was also ambitious to be as much extoll’d for his Generosity and Magnificence; to which purpose he distributed all the Wealth which was brought unto him from the neighboring Countreys, amongst the Poor and the Nobility; to the first he gave Clothes and Provisions; to the last, Plumes of Feathers and Arms. Moreover he caus’d all mean Houses to be pull’d down and new ones to be built in their places. Lastly, he consulted how to bring fresh Water into _Mexico_, which was plac’d in a brackish Soil: Upon this Design he was so bent, that when one of his Sages disswaded him from it, alledging, _That the Water would drown the City_, he, in stead of following his Advice, banish’d him his Presence, and upon his flying to _Cuyaocun_, caus’d him to be fetch’d from thence and Executed. Then prosecuting his Design, he cut the Ditch before _Cuyaocun_, by which means great store of fresh Water came flowing into the Lake _Laguna_, which the Priests welcom’d with strange Ceremonies; for some perfum’d the Water, others Offer’d Quails Blood, whilst others play’d on several Musical Instruments, with many other Ceremonies, which are at large describ’d in the ancient _Mexican_ Chronicles, kept in the _Vatican_ Library at _Rome_. But the Prophecy of the Executed Sorcerer was in a manner fulfill’d; for the Water overwhelm’d a great part of _Mexico_, and divided the City into Isles: But to prevent farther Mischief, _Autzoll_ caus’d Banks to be rais’d, and Channels digg’d; and not long after, in the eleventh Year of his Reign, he deceas’d: After which the _Mexican_ Kingdom tended towards its period, as the ensuing Story will declare.

Amongst the _Mexican_ Nobility, _Mutexuma_, a melancholy Man, yet very prudent, who resided in a stately Apartment near the great Temple _Cu_, that there he might the better converse with _Viztlipuztli_, was elected King; which he no sooner heard, but fled from hence: but being found out, he was against his will led to the Grand Assembly, and from thence to the holy Hearth, where for an Offering he drew Blood out of his Cheeks, Ears, and Legs; and, according to an ancient Custom, the _Council of State_ boring a Hole in his Nose, hung an Emerauld in the same; after which the Lord of _Tescuco_ saluted him with a Speech; which (since it is mention’d by _Joseph d’ Acosta_, together with several other Speeches of Congratulation to their Kings, which were taught to Schollars, to make them expert in their Language) it will not be amiss to be annexed here, that of many this one may serve for a pattern of the _Mexicans_ Eloquence, which is as followeth:

[Sidenote: The Lord of _Tescuco_ his Speech to _Muteczuma_.]

“The great happiness, most noble _Muteczuma_, which is befall’n this
Realm by your Election, may easily be conjectur’d from the general
joy, none besides your self being able to undergo an Office, in the
management whereof so much Prudence is requir’d: It is a most
certain testimony that God loves _Mexico_, that he hath given its
Inhabitants understanding to make such a Choice. Who can doubt, but
that you who have expatiated through the Heavens, and convers’d with
_Viztlipuztli_, may easily Govern us Mortals on Earth? Who can
despair, but that the Vertue inclos’d within your Breast, will
extend to the Widows and Orphans? Therefore rejoyce, O _Mexico_; the
Heavens have granted us a Prince without Vice; Merciful, and not a
Violator of the Laws; Affable, not despising common Conversation.
And you, O King, let not this great Preferment occasion any
alteration in your so long known Vertues: The Crown breeds care for
the publick good; the troubles thereof must extend over the whole
Realm, and every one in the Realm.”

[Sidenote: Preparation for the Coronation of _Muteczuma_.]

[Sidenote: His Grandeur.]

[Sidenote: The ruine of the _Mexican_ Empire prognosticated.]

_Muteczuma_ having heard out the Speech, would willingly have answer’d the same, but could not utter a word for Tears, which gush’d from his Eyes. Before he went out to fetch Prisoners for Offerings at his Coronation, he first setled his Houshold Affairs. And whereas till this time the Kings had been serv’d in their Palaces by ordinary Citizens, he took Knights, and the chiefest of the Nobility, intending thereby to make a distinction between the Nobility and the common People, and add more Majesty to the Royal Dignity. This done, _Muteczuma_ marching against a certain rebellious Province, fetch’d a considerable number of People to be Offer’d to _Viztupuztli_. At his Return the Coronation-Day was appointed, against which thousands of People came to _Mexico_; even their very Enemies of _Tlascala_, _Mechoacan_, and _Tepeaca_, which were never conquer’d by the _Mexicans_, flock’d thither in great numbers. All those Countreys which were under Tribute bringing unvaluable Treasures, came in vast Multitudes, which so throng’d the City, that the very tops of the Houses were fill’d with Spectators, no King in _Mexico_ ever going to the Throne in such splendor; nor was ever any King so much fear’d by his Subjects, none of the common People daring to look in his Face; neither did he ever set Foot on the Ground, but was always carried in a Chair on the Shoulders of his prime Nobility; he never wore a Suit of Clothes but once, nor ever us’d a Cup or Dish after it was once foul’d; he strictly maintain’d the Laws which he had made, and often went himself in a Disguise, to make a strict enquiry after all Affairs whatsoever; by which means the _Mexican_ Power was now arriv’d to the highest top: but, as other Realms, grown top-heavy with good Fortune, turn at last topsie-turvy, just such a Misfortune befell _Mexico_; but not without several fore-running signs of its destruction: for in the City _Cholola_ their God _Quezalcoalt_ inform’d them, that a strange People were coming to take possession of the _Mexican_ Dominions; and their Soothsayers prognosticated the same, for which _Muteczuma_ committed them all to Prison, and doubtless had put them all to death, had not they escap’d with the help of the Master of their diabolical Art; and though they escap’d themselves, yet their Wives and Children were all put to death upon the King’s Command: Soon after which appear’d a mighty Comet, or blazing Star for a whole year together; the great Temple _Cu_ was set on Fire, and burnt to the Ground none knew how; the Water which was thrown on the same to quench it, burnt like Brimstone; in the Skie appear’d three fiery Heads at noon-day, and out of a long Tail shot Sparks on the Earth; the _Laguna_, between _Mexico_ and _Texcuco_, began to swell into a Tide, which turn’d some Houses topsie-turvy; a shrill Voice was heard in the Night crying on the Water, _Children, your ruine is at hand; whither shall I carry you that you may not be lost?_

[Sidenote: A miraculous story of a Bird.]

No less strange is what _d’ Acosta_ relates of a Bird presented to _Muteczuma_, not unlike a Crane, which the Fishermen had taken on the _Laguna_; on the shining Forehead of which there appear’d the resemblance of two Armies Engag’d, and one defeated by the other, and that whilst the Sages, call’d to interpret the meaning hereof, sat in Consultation, the Bird vanish’d.

[Sidenote: Another of a Country-man.]

Moreover, there goes a Tradition, That a Countrey-man being at his Labor, was taken up by an Eagle, and carried through the Air into a gloomy Cave, where a Man lay fast asleep snoaring, when on a sudden he heard a Voice afar off, saying, _Do you know that Man?_ whereupon the Countrey-man taking special notice of the dormant Man, knew him, by the Royal Apparel, to be _Mutexuma_; after which the Voice was heard again, saying, _How soundly doth he sleep: the time is coming which provides Punishments for many Crimes; burn the Snoarer with the Torch which he holds in his Hands, he will feel no pain_: Not long after he being inform’d hereof, and looking on his Thigh, found the same burnt, to his no small amazement.

[Sidenote: News of the arrival of the _Spanish_ Fleet.]

Having now possess’d the Throne fourteen years, he receiv’d news of a Fleet, and therewith a Draught of the Men and Vessels painted on Cloth. This startling him, he immediately advis’d with his Council, who judg’d it convenient to secure the Coast along the Southern Ocean with strong Watches; yet nevertheless _Ferdinand Cortesius_ Landed with five hundred Foot and sixty Horse, took the City _Potanchanum_, march’d through the Countrey _Sicuchimalar_ to _Tascalleca_, where they had a sharp Conflict, in which the _Spaniards_ were in great danger; and had not they had six Field-Pieces with them, which did as much affright as hurt the _Indians_, they had without doubt been cut off there. In _Chiurutecal_ they were in as much danger; for certainly the _Spanish_ Army had been set upon in the Night, had not a Woman inform’d them of it.

[Sidenote: _Muteczuma_ committed to Prison by _Cortesius_.]