Chapter XX: Front Matter (20)

Moreover, they travel’d over the plain Countrey _Guastecan_, to the Village _Tancuylabo_, inhabited by a tall People, with blue Painted Bodies, and Pleited Hair, hanging down to their Knees, going stark naked, but never without a Bowe and Arrow. They esteem nothing more than Salt, as being the onely Cure against certain Worms that grow between their Lips. From hence they travel’d to _Tampice_, in which Journey they spent nine days; and coming thither, were inform’d, that of forty _Christians_ which dwelt in the same, the _Indians_ had slain twelve, whilst they were gathering of Salt. From hence they came to _Panuco_, then in a manner deserted, because of the _Indians_ oppressing the _Spaniards_, of which, at that time, there were but ten, and one Priest. _Chilton_ falling sick here, resolv’d nevertheless to change that unwholsom Air and barren place for a better; to which purpose, getting a Horse, he took an _Indian_ behind him for his Guide, but loosing his way in a thick Wood, happen’d amongst a Company of wild People, which dwelt in Straw Huts, twenty of them immediately surrounding him, brought him some clear sweet Water to drink, out of a Gilt _Venice_ Glass, which having drunk, two naked Men led him into the high-way; which ended at the Gate of the Wall’d City _Santo Jago de las Valles_, inhabited by twenty five _Spanish_ Families, who inform’d _Chilton_ of the great danger which he had been in, for the People which gave him the Water were Man-eaters, who not long since, had burnt an _Augustine_ Cloyster, built on a Mountain, had taken away, and eat the People, of which they had in all likelyhood gotten the _Venice_ Glass; and had they not observ’d _Chilton_ to be sickly, he had without doubt been eaten by them, and his Skin, with some of his Hair, (that being a great Ornament amongst them) been hung about their middle.

During _Chilton_’s stay in _St. Jago_, _Frans de Page_ came thither with forty Soldiers from the Vice-Roy _Henry Manriques_, and took five hundred _Indians_, good Bowe Men out of the Neighboring Villages, _Tanehipa_ and _Tameclipa_, with which he design’d to go to the Silver Mines at _Zacatecas_: _Chilton_ joyning with this Company, came to the great River _De las Palmas_, which separates _New Spain_ from _Florida_, where they spent three days in vain, seeking to find a passage over; wherefore they at last took pieces of Timber, which joyning together, and standing upon, they were Tow’d over by Swimming _Indians_; being gotten on the other side, they March’d over steep Mountains, and thick Wildernesses, and came at last to _Zacatecas_, on whose Silver Mines, the richest in all _America_, work’d above three hundred _Spaniards_ daily.

SECT. VI.
Tabasco.

[Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Tabasco_.]

The last Countrey belonging to _New Spain_ is _Tabasco_, bounded on the North by the Northern Ocean, and on the East with _Jucatan_; and however some account it a distinct Province, yet others make no mention of it, letting it pass for that part of _Jucatan_ which lies about the City _Tabasco_, from which it seems to be denominated: The Ground level and without Mountains, hath many great Woods of Cedar-Trees, _Brasile_, and others. Here are also many good _Indian_ Fruits, as the _Manmeyes_, _Zapotes_, _Aguacates_, and _Guajabos_. For three Moneths they have continually dry Weather, the rest of the year being for the most part rainy; which vicissitude of Moisture and Heat makes the Countrey exceeding fruitful, insomuch that they have three or four Harvests of _Maiz_ in a year.

Vines, Figs, Lemmons, Oranges, Rice, Barley, and all sorts of Garden-Herbs grow here also in great plenty.

The Pools, Brooks and Lakes, abound likewise with all manner of Fish: and for Sea-Fish, besides the _Tortugas_, and _Yguanras_, the _Manate_, or _Sea-Cow_, is of principal note.

[Sidenote: The Fish _Manate_.]

This Fish is terrible to behold, having a Head like an Ox, little Eyes, two Feet near the Head in stead of Fins, two round Holes in stead of Ears, round bones like Balls in its Brains, a short Tail, and bristly Skin: The Females have two Dugs, with which they suckle their Young.

[Sidenote: Birds.]

Peacocks, Pheasants, Parrots, Quales, Hens, Pigeons, with several sorts of Birds altogether unknown to the _Europeans_, are here in great abundance.

[Sidenote: Beasts.]

The Woods also abound with Tygers and Lyons, which do no little hurt to the Inhabitants, Wild Hogs, Deer, and Rabbets, are likewise here in great plenty; and Turtles of an exceeding bigness: Likewise Apes, Polecats, and Squerrils, which do very much hurt to the Fruit-Trees, especially the _Cacao_. The _Musticho_’s are a great annoyance to the People, and disturb their rest at Night.

[Sidenote: Languages of the Natives.]

Since the _Spaniards_ have conquer’d _Tabasco_, they have forc’d the Inhabitants to observe their Laws and Customs. They speak three sorts of Languages, amongst which that most us’d, call’d _Chontal_, is copious of Words. The second, _Zoques_, is spoken on the Mountains which divide _Chiapa_ and _Tabasco_. The _Mexican_ Tongue was first brought thither by the Garrisons which _Muteczuma_ plac’d there in the Forts _Zimatlan_ and _Xicalango_, and is the most spoken, in regard it hath not onely its Accents, but is also of great use, partly because it is understood in most places of _America_, and partly because the Priests have made Songs in that Tongue, with which the _Tabascans_ are much delighted.

The chief City _Nostra Sennora de la Vittoria_, already mention’d in _Jucatan_, was so call’d by _Ferdinand Cortesius_, from the great Victory which he obtain’d over the Indians when he march’d first towards _Mexico_.

Thus far of the Description of the several Parts and Divisions of _New Spain_, differing in Customs and Languages, though most of them have some affinity with the _Mexicans_, who by force of Arms had made a way to the supream Empire. All of them acknowledge a Creator, but have no Name to express the Word _God_. But besides the Creator of the World they have made to themselves Gods of many other Creatures; amongst which are the Sun, Moon, Stars, and the Manes of the Deceased, the care of whose Burial they committed to the Priests, which was sometimes in the Fields, sometimes in their Houses; others carried their dead Bodies to the Mountains, some buried them in Temples; and as they either burnt or buried the Body, so they buried or burnt their Clothes and Riches with them, especially of Persons of Quality, whilst those that accompanied the Corps sung a mournful Song; after which they Feasted. The Heirs of Noble-men that had been at the Funeral put themselves all into Mourning. A Person, after he is dead, is stretch’d out upon the Floor, where he lies till all his Friends come to Present and Complement him, as if living: But at the death of an eminent Person they not onely bring him Presents, but proffer him his Slaves, Steward, Butlers, Dwarfs, and Houshold Priest, (all which a Lord must keep) that they may serve him in the other World. The Priests which perform’d the Funeral Ceremonies, walk’d before the Corps with the Image of the Idol which the Deceased had appropriated to himself, (for every Lord, according to the greatness of his Quality, bore the Name and Apparel of some Idol or another;) other Priests beat on Drums, play’d on Pipes and singing Dirges, perfum’d the Way with Myrrh, whilest the Servants and Relations made a doleful cry; a Herauld also carried the Coat of Arms and Trophies of the Deceased, artificially painted on Cloth; at last they pyl’d sweet Wood about the Corps, which being lighted, and the Body burnt to Ashes, a Priest in a frightful Dress, Vizarded with a gaping Mouth, long Teeth, and fiery Eyes, came on a sudden, and with a long Stick stirr’d the Ashes about, and gathering it in an Urn, buried the same with the fore-mention’d things.

The Idols in _New Spain_ are represented in terrible Figures, to which they Offer humane Sacrifices.

The Priests, divided into higher or lower Orders, acknowledge a supream Head, which they call _Papas_. Each Idol had a peculiar sort of Priests: Those that serv’d _Viztlipuzli_, obtain’d their Places by Inheritance; but others were chose by the Commonalty, unless they had been bred Priests from their Infancy.

[Sidenote: Cloysters dedicated to the ancient _Mexican_ Religion.]

The _Mexican_ Cloysters in the time of _Heathenism_ were generally built in the chiefest Temples, in a great _Piazza_, or square Court, where for the most part two Monastical Houses stood one against another, the one inhabited by a Fraternity of Recluses, and the other by a Sisterhood; which last being Maids of twelve or thirteen years of age, call’d _The Penitential Daughters_, swept the Temple, prepar’d Meat for the Idols and Priests, which was plentifully supply’d from the Alms and Offerings that were daily brought in to the Priests, consisting of little Cakes made like Hands and Feet, besides other strange Meats, which being set before the Idols, was soon after taken away again, and eaten up by the Priests: They were under a Governess, who employ’d them in making Embroideries to adorn the Temple; and sometimes rose up with the Priests at Mid-night, and play’d on Pipes, perfum’d the Temple, and scourg’d themselves till the Blood ran down their Backs, besmearing their Faces therewith, and leaving it on a whole year; then going into a large Chamber, where a Cistern stood for that purpose, they wash’d it off again; after which, if they committed the least uncleanness, they were put to a most miserable Death; which was judg’d upon seeing a Rat run through the Nuns Chamber, or a Batt flying by it, or finding any piece of Cloth gnaw’n by a Mouse or Rat; for they suppose that the fore-mention’d Creatures dare not come into a hallow’d place, unless defil’d. In this recluse manner they were onely confin’d to live a year, which being expir’d, they had free leave to Marry.

The House opposite to the Nuns in the same square place of the Temple, was inhabited by Youths of eighteen and twenty years of age, whose Heads were shaven like Monks, and pleited Tufts hung from the Crown down to their Backs; they liv’d also mean and chaste, kept the Priests Clothes and Perfuming-Vessels, carried Wood for Offerings, and kept always burning Lamps before _Viztlipuztli_’s Altar. Amongst them were also Boys of a less Age, whose Office was to gather Flowers and Herbs to strow the Temple with, to sharpen the Priests Lances, which they Let themselves Blood with every Night in the Legs, and carry them Water. These Youths, Cloth’d in Nets, fell on their Faces on the Ground when they met with a Woman, and went four and four, or six and six together to beg Alms, and by turns watch’d the fore-mention’d Fire; in the Morning they drew Blood out of their Thighs, with which they anointed their Temples down to their Ears, and when the Blood look’d black, wash’d it off again in a consecrated Bath, which their strict and severe Life endur’d a whole Year.

[Sidenote: _Mexican_ Religion abhorr’d by the neighboring People.]

The particular Religion of the _Mexicans_, compos’d of cruel slaughters and butcheries of Men, reign’d a long time against the minds of the other _Indians_ that were under their Dominion, every one beginning more to abhor the cruel flaying of living People, and tearing out the Hearts of Men for Offerings; and the rather, because they were forc’d to fetch them out of their Enemies Countrey with the hazard of their own Lives, insomuch that they were ready long before to have embrac’d another Doctrine, if any other Teacher had but appear’d amongst them; which was the chief reason why they so easily receiv’d the _Roman_ Religion: for when _Cortesius_ had conquer’d the City _Mexico_, the _Mechoacan_ Agents entreated him to send them Teachers to prescribe them Laws, according to which they might live, because their Idolatry, which had long oppress’d them, was not to be suffer’d any longer, because of the Cruelties which were requir’d of them in the performance thereof.

[Sidenote: Their Processions.]

Their Processions were stately, and after this manner: The chiefest Nuns raising a Paste of _Bledoi_-Seed and parched _Maiz_, kneaded it with Honey, of which they made an Idol resembling their Deity _Viztipuztli_, across whose Nose and Forehead they drew a blue Stroke; his Head they adorn’d with a Plume of Feathers, and in the left Hand plac’d a round Box, in the right a crooked Staff like a Serpent, and Wings behind on his Shoulders; at the appointed Feast-day the Nuns meet before Sun-rising, in new white Apparel, with Garlands of _Maiz_ about their Heads and Necks, which hung down below the left Shoulder, their Faces painted with several colours, about their Arms hung Parrots Feathers from their Elbows down to their Hands: Thus adorn’d, they carried the kneaded Idol to a Court, where the Youths that inhabited a Cloyster in the same Temple, fetching the Idols blue Throne, with great Reverence set it down at the lower Step of the Temple, at which the People threw Dust on their Heads; which was no sooner done, but the Boys ran with all speed to the Mountain _Chapultepec_, a League from _Mexico_, whither the Multitude following them in manner of Procession, made all short Prayers and Offerings there; from thence hastening into the Champain Fields _Atlacuavaya_, they perform’d the like Service as before; which done, they went to the Village _Cuyoacan_, a League farther; from whence they came back in all haste with their Idol into _Mexico_: Wherefore this Processioning for its expedition was call’d _Ipaina Viztliputli_. The Idol being brought into the Temple, was by four Cords made fast to his Throne, hoised up to the Cieling with the noise of Drums and Trumpets, whilst the fore-mention’d Youths strow’d the Temple both within and without full of Roses; after which the Nuns gave the Boys the resemblances of Bones made of the same Dough with the Idol, with which they were to cover the Floor of the Chappel; then appear’d the Temple-Priests, with Scarfs about their Bodies, Garlands on their Heads, and Strings with Flowers about their Necks, each going in order according to his quality to the place where the Bones lay; which being Consecrated with Songs and Dances, were religiously worshipp’d for Bones of the Idol; after which six of the Priests went down to the Stone _Quauxicalli_, on which the Prisoners lying upon their Backs, had their Hearts pull’d out; which being finish’d, the Maids and Boys before-mention’d went to meet one another, Dancing to the sound of Pipes, Drums and Songs; which their nearest Relations answering, Danc’d round about them, whither the whole City and Countrey People all about came flocking in great numbers.

During this high Feast none, upon great Penalties, durst eat any other Food but the Cakes made of the same Dough of which the Idol was made; neither were they permitted, though Children, to drink till the Afternoon.

Lastly, the Priest climb’d up to a Chappel strow’d with Roses, in which the Idol sitting, they disrob’d him, broke his holy Arms and Legs into little pieces, which they distributed amongst the common People, who receiv’d them with great Reverence, and with tears in their Eyes, imagining they eat the Body of their God; for which honour every one paid a tenth part of the Charge which had been spent in this high Feast. Then a Priest admonish’d them how they should lead their Lives, since they were united with their God; which ended, they all went to their several Habitations in a wonderful good order from the Temple.

[Sidenote: Ancient Attire of the _Mexicans_.]

Concerning the _Mexicans_ Apparel, it is a sufficient testimony, that they are no way of the same original with the several barbarous Nations, that run up and down naked in _New Spain_: for the Inhabitants of _Mexico_ went antiently Cloth’d in Cotton: On their Heads they wore a high Plume of red Feathers; about their Necks, over their Shoulders, Breast and Back, a kind of large _Thorax_ of Feathers curiously pleited; each Arm adorn’d with Armlets, and their Middles girt with broad white Girdles full of red Streaks; in stead of Garters they wore Laces of Feathers, as also a little above their Ancles. Their Priests besmear’d all their Bodies, especially the Head, with an Ointment, whose special vertue was to make their Hair grow exceeding long, which they braided with broad Cotton Strings; they also smutch’d themselves with a kind of blacking Stuff; when they went to make Offerings to their Idol in Caves, Woods, or on high Mountains, they bedawb’d themselves with an Ointment made of Spiders, Salamanders, Adders, Scorpions and Toads, which the Temple-Boys caught for them in great abundance. This Ointment they made with many Circumstances; for having roasted the fore-mention’d Vermine on the Hearth of the perpetual Fire before _Viztlipuztli_’s Altar, and stamp’d the same in a Mortar with Tobacco, living Scorpions, the Seed _Ololuchqui_, (to which they ascrib’d a power of representing Visions) hairy Worms, and Soot, they kneaded all together, put the Ointment in Pots, and plac’d it before the Idol, thenceforth reputing it a sanctifi’d Medicine, that would prove good against all manner of Diseases; wherefore the Priests being always sent for to the Sick in stead of Doctors, perfum’d the Patient, shav’d his Hair, hung Snakes Bones about his Neck, and order’d him at a certain Hour to bathe himself, and in the Night to watch before a Fire-hearth, and to eat no Bread but what had been Offer’d to their Idol. Moreover, the said Ointment is thought to have another power, _viz._ to make those that anointed themselves with the same, valiant and strong; which the common People believ’d, because the Priests would go through Woods and Wildernesses that abounded with ravenous Beasts.

These _Heathens_ also seem’d to have something of Circumcision and Baptism; for they not onely cut off a piece of the Infant’s Ears and privy Members, which they Offer’d to their Idols, but also wash’d them as soon as they came into the World, putting into their Hands such Tools as were of use in their Fathers Profession.

[Sidenote: Their Nuptial Solemnities.]

Their Marriages also were celebrated with great solemnity: The Priest having ask’d the Bride and Bridegroom, If they would joyn together in Matrimony? if they both consented, he ty’d the Brides Scarf, and Bridegrooms Coat together, and so accompanying them home, led them nine times about the Fire-hearth: If the Bride had no Impediments, then the Bridegroom made Presents to her Father and Mother, Offerings to the Gods, and a brave Dinner to the nearest Relations; after which an Inventory was drawn of what each of them had brought, that upon their being Divorc’d, (which was very common amongst the _Mexicans_) each might have his share; and if they had Children, the Man was to keep the Sons, and the Woman the Daughters; nor were they permitted, on pain of death, being once parted, to joyn together again.

[Sidenote: The Feast _Texcoalt_.]

On the ninteenth of May they kept the Feast _Texcoalt_, Consecrated to the Idol _Tezcatlipuca_, before whom they Offer’d a Slave, which was done after this manner: Towards the Evening the Multitude coming into the Temple, the Priests pulling off the Idols old, put on new Apparel, hung him full of Precious Stones and Armlets, set Plumes of Feathers on his Head; which done, the Curtains behind which he stood, were drawn, and a Priest Cloth’d exactly like the Idol coming forth, turn’d himself round, blow’d a kind of Trumpet towards the four Winds, and ate Earth, which all the People imitated: whereof those which had committed any hainous Offence, Offer’d Incense to the Idol, and weeping, begg’d forgiveness of their Sins. Those that were Soldiers besought him to grant them store of Prisoners, and strength to conquer their Enemies; for which they would return him thanks with Offer’d Prisoners.

This Feast of _Texcoalt_ lasting ten days, ended on the twenty ninth of _May_ with peculiar Ceremonies; for in the Morning a company of Priests, black all over, carried on their Shoulders a large Chair of State richly adorn’d; in which sat their Idol _Tezcatlipuca_, and Priests with long pleited Hair, and Clad in the same Apparel with the Idol, which they set down at the Foot of a pair of Stairs which led up to a Chappel; whither the attendant Youths and Virgins came and spread Carpets before it, and green Boughs of _Manghey_; after which two Priests carried the Idol into a spacious Court in the Temple, several others walking before, each with a perfuming Vessel; when they threw their Perfumes on the Consecrated Hearth, they held their Hands towards the Idol, desiring him that he would send their Prayers to Heaven: Next follow’d the Multitude, who scourg’d themselves till the Blood ran down from their Backs. So soon as the Procession was ended, the represented _Tezcatlipuca_ was hoised up to the Cieling, and abundance of Flowers strow’d before the Altar; which done, every one went home to Dinner, whilst the Youths and Virgins adorn’d the Idol, and plac’d Meat before him: Lastly, the Votaresses came two and two with Baskets of Bread, and Dishes of Meat: their Governess in a white Sur-Coat over a red Vest, with Wings on her Shoulders, and broad Girts, at which hung _Calabashes_ fill’d with holy Reliques and Flowers: Moreover, she conducted the Votaresses to the Steps of the Altar on which the Idol sat; where having eaten Bread they came back, and the Temple-Servants went in their places, and carried the Meat which stood on the Altar to the Priests Cells, who by that time were to have Fasted five days: this done, the People came all to the Temple again, to be present at the end of the Feast: then a Slave, who had represented the Idol a whole year, appear’d, to whom everyone having shew’d Reverence, the chief Priest cutting open his Breast, tore the Slave’s Heart reaking out of his Body, and shew’d it to the Sun; then the Consecrated Youths and Maids made a great noise with Drumming, Singing and Dancing about the Body till Sun-set; after which the Virgins going up to the upper Chappel, plac’d Bread and Fruit, made up like dead Mens Bones and Heads, before the Idol, where, after it had stood a little while, the Servants went up and fetch’d it down, whilst the Youths and Maids went to their several Cloysters.

Much after the same manner, and with such like brutish Ceremonies, not worth mentioning, was also celebrated the Feast of _Quetzatcoalt_.

In the inner part of the Temple stood a Stage, on which upon Festival Days the People Acted Drolls; in which they sometimes feign’d themselves deaf, blind, lame, and the like, and begg’d to be cur’d of their Idols; sometimes were dress’d like Serpents, Adders, Crocodiles, or other ravenous Beasts, in which postures they fought one with another.

[Sidenote: Computation of Time amongst the _Mexicans_.]

Those Feasts were all kept on certain times, according to the Mexican Almanack, in which the Year was divided into eight Moneths, and each Moneth into forty five Days, which together made three hundred and sixty: The five remaining Days, to compleat the Year, they kept apart, on which all Affairs whatsoever were laid aside, as Selling, Buying, Offerings, _&c._ nothing else being thought on but Feasting one another for the passing away of the time. The first Day of their Year was on the twenty sixth of _February_. Each Moneth had a peculiar Name and Sign. Moreover, they divided the Year into four parts by as many Representations, _viz._ a House, a Rabbet, a Cane, and a Flint to strike Fire with; and Figur’d it out by a Wheel with four Spikes jutting out round about it, colour’d green, red, blue, and yellow, and in the middle thereof a Sun; each Spike signifi’d thirteen years, wherefore it had thirteen Divisions, distinguish’d by the four fore-mention’d Representations: At each Division of the Wheel they set down what remarkable things should happen that year by certain Characters; as, a Man in red Apparel typifi’d that Year when _Ferdinand Cortesius_, clad in Red, conquer’d _Mexico_. When the Wheel was fill’d with fifty two years Prognostication, then on the last Night they broke all their Pots and Vessels in pieces, and blew out their Candles, because they believ’d, that at the end of the said fifty two years the World would be at an end, and therefore they had no need of Housholdstuff, or ought else: But so soon as the Day appear’d again, they play’d on Pipes, Trumpets, and Drums, rejoycing that God had deferr’d the destruction of the World fifty two years longer; then they bought new Utensils and Candles, and made solemn Processions.

[Sidenote: Art of Writing.]

Concerning the Art of Writing amongst the Inhabitants of _New Spain_, _Joseph Acosta_ tells us, That some old Books, containing ancient Passages, the Course of the Heavens, nature of Beasts and Plants, were found in _Jucatan_, according to the Relation of a Learned _Indian_, but were all burnt by Command of a _Spanish_ Bishop, because he suppos’d them to be full of Matter touching the Black Art. Their Histories they describ’d with the Representations of the Things. Rhetorick and Poetry the Children were taught by Rote in the Schools, so that they never forgot what they had once learnt; But at present they use _Spanish_ Letters or Characters.

[Sidenote: Ancient Government.]

Moreover, the Government of _Mexico_ hath ever been kept in a good Order, the King’s Power being exactly limited, that nothing might be lost of the common Priviledges. The fourth King _Icoath_ made Earls, who next to the Lords of _Tezcuco_ and _Tacuba_, had right to the Crown; which was like a Mitre turn’d up behind, and rising before with a Point. According as they increas’d in Power, so they advanc’d in Royal Dignity; in which _Muteczuma_ the Second exceeded all others: And to manifest his splendor, his House for all sorts of Creatures, and many other things, might serve for a sufficient testimony: for in it he kept Sea-Fish in salt Water, River-Fish in fresh Water, and all manner of Beasts in peculiar places: The Birds were kept in great Aviaries, surrounded with golden Rails. Next to the Kings follow’d four Earls call’d _Atlacohecalcatl_, which signifies _Princes of the Throne Launces_, a Weapon much us’d amongst the _Mexicans_. The next in Degree were the _Tlacatecatl_, or _Man-cleavers_; _Esauahuacatl_, or _Blood-shedders_; _Tsallancalqui_, or _Lords of Blackness_, without all which the King durst not take any Business in hand. High and lesser Courts of Judicatory, where Matters of Life and Death were try’d, were in most Cities; and other Courts also for petty Quarrels, Controversies, and the like. The Collectors brought their Revenues to the Court every Moneth. The chief thing which preferr’d both Rich and Poor to Places of Honor, consisted in Valour and heroick Exploits. Their Arms were chiefly sharp pieces of Flint made fast to a Stick, with which they could at one Blow chop off a Horses Head. They also us’d Pikes, Clubs, and Lances, and sometimes Slings: For defensive Armour, they had Helmets and Shields, made of Tygers, Leopards, and Lyons Skins. They always fell upon their Enemies unawares, their Design being generally to take Prisoners rather than to kill them; for they reserv’d them for Offerings to their Idols. _Muteczuma_ made several Commanders over his Armies, giving them a Power one above the other, which were to be distinguish’d by several Marks; for the chiefest ty’d the Hair on the top of their Heads with a red String, betwixt which stuck a brave Plume of Feathers; at the end whereof hung as many Tassels as they had done noble Exploits. To this Order belong’d also the King, who wore one of the same Marks, with which King _Muteczuma_ and his Son stand Carv’d on a Rock. The _Ayulas_, or _The Order of the Eagle_, consisted of valiant Men. The _Grey Knights_ were of less Quality, and wore Collars which reach’d up to their Ears, the lower part of their Body being naked. Persons of greater Dignity, when going to the War, were Arm’d from Head to Foot: Which Order was also permitted to wear Cotton-Clothes, and Shoes richly embroider’d with Gold and Silver; they us’d painted Vessels, and had Lodgings provided for them at Court.

[Sidenote: Their Education of Youth.]

Moreover, it is worthy of observation, what great care the _Mexicans_ took in the bringing up of their Children; to which purpose they had Schools near to their Temples, in which Youth was taught to Sing, Dance, Morality, Obedience, and also Martial Discipline. Children of noble Extract had Learned Men for their Tutors. Their Punishments for Transgressions were very severe, the Masters forcing their Scholars to Fast and Watch, carry great Burthens of Provisions to the Army, and be in the midst of Engagements. Others, whose Fancy led them to a holy Life, willingly embrac’d the Services of the Temple.

[Sidenote: Their manner of Dancing.]

Their manner of Dancing in _New Spain_ was very strange and differing; they us’d pretty Instruments, and Songs which contain’d antique Passages, according to the Times; they in their Motions imitated Shepherds, Fisher-men, Plowmen, Hunters, and the like: Sometimes they Danc’d in _Mascarades_, with a Man on their Shoulders, making the same Motion with his Hands in the Air, as the other with his Feet on the Ground. They had also Tumblers and Dancers on the Ropes, which shew’d strange Tricks on an erected Pole. But above all Dances, the _Mitotes_ was the chief, which was generally Danc’d in the King’s Palace, or inner Court of the Temple; in the middle of which they plac’d a great Drum and a hollow Tub on a large Image; round about which the most eminent Persons made a Ring, Sang sweetly, and Danc’d leisurely, when on a sudden two that are more nimble, with divers Motions came into the midst of them, and Danc’d exactly after the sound of the Drum and hollow Tub, which was seconded with the noise of Flutes and Pipes.

CHAP. VI.
New Gallicia.

[Sidenote: Bounds and Extent of _New Gallicia_.]

_New Gallicia_, by some call’d _Guadalajara_, from the chief City. This whole Province is the most Northern Countrey of all _America_, that is inhabited to any purpose by the _Spaniards_. Here, ’tis true, they are scatter’d up and down in all the parts of it, but it is at a huge distance, and for the most part onely where the Mines are. It is bounded on the East and to the South, with the Kingdom of _Mexico_ or _New Spain_; on the West, with the Gulf or Bay of _California_; Northward, for so much as is yet discover’d, with _Quivira_ and _Cibola_, lying between eighteen and twenty eight Degrees of Northern Latitude, that is, from _La Natividad_, a Port so nam’d by the _Spaniards_, in the Confines of _New Spain_, to the most Northerly Borders of _Cinoloa_, a part of this Province, containing, as is suppos’d, not much less than three hundred Leagues in length, and in breadth much more; and whereof not a tenth part is either us’d or frequented by the _Spaniards_.

[Sidenote: Temperature and Nature of the Countrey.]

The Air is generally here very temperate, inclining rather to Heat than Cold, and subject now and then to sudden Storms of Rain, and great Claps of Thunder, which yet do not hinder, but that the Countrey is held to be reasonably healthful, and the People observ’d to live generally to a good old Age. The Soil, by reason of the Climate, would be a little inclining to Drought, but that, besides the frequent Rains which it hath, it is constantly moistned with fresh Morning Dews, which make it for the most part wonderfully fruitful, almost beyond belief, yielding for every Bushel of Wheat that is sown, threescore; and of _Maiz_, two hundred for one; besides great plenty of Sugar-Canes and Cochinele; both which nevertheless the _Spaniards_ are said to neglect in some sort, employing themselves wholly about richer Commodities: for the Countrey affords them good store of Mines of Silver and Brass, but of Gold or Iron, not many as yet have been found. The Rivers abound plentifully with Fish, and the Woods with Venison, and some other wild Beasts. The Countrey is generally more mountainous than plain, frequently shaded with Woods, and whole Forrests of the stateliest Pine-Trees and Oaks that are to be seen; amongst which breed abundance of Wolves, which do great mischief to the People, as also Scorpions and _Mustiecho_’s. The Hurts receiv’d from Scorpions, are heal’d with the Juice of the Fruit call’d _Queon_; those from the _Mustiecho_’s, by Vinegar and the Juice of Lemmon. Here is likewise a green Stone, accounted a soveraign Medicine against the Gravel.

[Sidenote: Several sorts of _Tunas_-Trees.]

The Trees peculiar to this Countrey, are, the _Tunas_, already spoken of in _Guatimala_, and thought to be the same we vulgarly call _Indian Fig-Trees_, and are distinguish’d into six sorts.

The first, by the _Portuguese_ call’d _Cardon_, hath sharp Prickles, thick Leaves, full of slimy Juice, an odoriferous Flower, oval Fruit, cover’d with an Orange-colour’d Rind, and small Roots: The Fruit within consists of a white juicy, and well tasted Pulp, full of black Seed.

The second hath a round Body full of Boughs, with Star-like Prickles hanging downwards, the Flower white, and the Fruit very like that of the _Cardon_, onely smaller.

The third is the _Caxabra_, which shoots up to a great Tree full of prickly Cods; at the utmost end grows a large white Flower; the Fruit, which is as big again as an Egg, is pleasant and cooling.

The fourth sort hath a straight Body full of Prickles, runs lesser and lesser to the top; at the end of the small Boughs, each thick Leaf produces another; the Wood, if kindled, burns like a Candle.

The fifth, nam’d _Cumbeba_, grows out of small Roots, with three or four corner’d thick Leaves, full of Prickles, the Flower somewhat less than the former, the Fruit oval, hard and red, having a white and juicy Pulp: The Prickles of this _Cumbeba_-Tree are so sharp, and stick in so deep, that they can scarce be pull’d out. This is that sort of _Tunas_ that produces _Cochinele_, which is a Worm that grows under the Leaves, and is cover’d with a Skin, which being neatly taken off and dry’d in the Sun, as formerly mention’d, becomes a rich Commodity. _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, that the _Spanish_ Fleet, _Anno 1578._ carried so much _Cochinele_ to _Spain_, as amounted to two hundred eighty three thousand seven hundred and fifty Ryals.

But the last sort of the _Tunas_ is the _Unirumbeba_, which hath a straight Body full of Prickles, on the top whereof grow divers prickly Leaves, not unlike those of the Palm-Tree: It is onely found in barren places, remote from the Sea.

Moreover, all kind of Fruits transplanted hither from _Spain_ thrive very well, as Apples, Pears, Granats, Figs, Peaches, Apricocks, Muskmelons, _&c._

[Sidenote: The Root _Castanuela_.]

[Sidenote: The _Batata_.]

The Root _Castanuela_ affords a much better Feeding for Swine than Acorns. But amongst many other Roots which are found here, as the _Xiquimas_, _Taca_, _Cochuco_, _Cari_, _Totora_ and _Mani_, the chief is the _Batata_, which is fat, sweet, and windy; it runs over the Ground with a tough green Sprig, the new Fibres taking Root dispersedly up and down, being yellow without, and within full of milky Juice; the Leaf resembling a Heart, is of a pale yellow colour on the top, and douny underneath; roasted in Ashes, it eats better than a Turnip: It is divided into three sorts.

The first, call’d _Omenapo yeima_, when boyl’d, shews like red _Betel_, but Dyes of a Skye-Colour; the innermost Skin, which is of a dark Red, yields an Ink-like Juice.

The second sort, call’d _Parro_, differs little from the first, onely the Body, Root, and Veins of the Leaves, are of a Purple colour.

The third sort _Jetiope_, being white, hath a very good rellish, and cures the Ague.

The Pepper, which is here call’d _Axi_, grows in the warmest Valleys, and the more by being often water’d: there are of it divers kinds, differing in colour, smell, and taste one from the other; for one sort is green, yellow, or red; another sort yields a strong musky scent; and one sort is sharper, another milder: the Veins and Kernels thereof are eaten with Salt.

The Herb _Cevadilla_ cures all manner of Sores.

[Sidenote: Beasts.]

This Countrey also breeds an innumerable company of Deer, Hogs, Goats, Sheep, Oxen, and Horses; and of hurtful Creatures, Pismires, which do great mischief to the Plants, and Locusts, which fall in huge swarms on the Corn, and cannot be frighted from the same by any means whatsoever. The want of Water is also no small prejudice to the Fields.

The biggest River, call’d _Guadalajara_, with many windings runs North-westward into the Southern Ocean; and four Leagues from the City of the same, falling down from a steep Rock, it makes such a horrible noise, that it deafens those which approach the same.

The Lake _Mechoacan_ opens here also with a wide Mouth.

[Sidenote: Two sorts of Hedge-hogs.]

The River before mention’d, produces all manner of Fish in great abundance; and also a sort of Hedge-hogs, call’d _Iguana_, which live both in the Water, and on the Land, and are of two sorts: The first, call’d _Senembi_, is four Foot long, of a deep green colour, with black and white Spots, hath a scaly Skin, white Spots on each side of the Head, a row of sharp Prickles from the Head to the Tail, wide Nostrils, great black Eyes, and little Teeth. The second sort, call’d _Tejaguacu_, differs from the first, in having white Spots on a brown Skin, a longer Tail, and a red Tongue, which is slit. Both sorts are reported to fast eight Moneths together; and though often terribly wounded, and dead to all imagination, yet live a great while after; and though they swim up and down in Rivers, yet they Lay their Eggs in the Sand: their Flesh boyl’d is both wholsom, and of a good relish.

[Sidenote: The manner of the _Spaniards_ living.]

The _Spaniards_ which inhabit _New Gallicia_, drive a considerable Trade in Merchandizing, Husbandry, breeding of Cattel, and working in the Mines: They use Wayns and Carrs, drawn by Oxen, Mules, and Horses, to carry their Loads, as also _Spanish_ Weights and Measures. They are little troubled with any other Mischiefs but what may happen from the treacherous Natives, who take all opportunities to run into the Woods, that there they may exercise their _Pagan_ Religion in freedom; in which having spent some time, they gather a considerable number together, and oftentimes fall unawares on the _Spaniards_, who use Leather Shields and Helmets, and furr’d Cotton Clothes, to secure them from the Arrows which the _Indians_, lying in Ambuscades, shoot at them out of the Bushes.

[Sidenote: The Nature, Habits, and Customs of the Natives.]

The Natives, though subtile, are lazy, and will not work, unless for great Rewards. They wear Cotton Shirts, square Cloaks of the same Stuff, made fast with two Buttons on their Breasts; Drawers, and soal’d Shoes: Flag-Matts serve them for Beds, on which they lie under Cotton Clothes: About their Necks, Arms, and Legs, they wear green Stones, and Snale Shells for an Ornament. Their greatest Recreation is Dancing, their Musick being nothing else but the noise or sound of a piece of hollow Wood. Horse-flesh, and Bread made of _Maiz_, is by them accounted a great Dainty. The Drink _Cacao_ is also highly esteem’d amongst them; but much more the Wine that they make of _Maquey_, which is the wonderful Tree that affords many necessary things, _viz._ Syrrup, Honey, Oyl, Vinegar, Yarn, Needles, Water, and Wine; every Man making it his Business to plant and preserve the same with great care near his House, notwithstanding they grow in several places of the Fields; they have broad thick Leaves with sharp ends, out of which is drawn a Thorn, which serves them for a Needle or Pin. These Leaves have a hairy Filament about them, which serves in stead of Thred: the young Sprout being cut, produces a sweet Juice, which boyl’d, makes good Wine; when grown sowre, serves for Vinegar; but being twice boyl’d, becomes a Syrrup; and being hung over the Fire a third time, a perfect Honey: Also the Wood being spungie, keeps Fire as well as Match. Moreover, the Inhabitants when they travel, carry Leather Bags with them full of _Cacao_, _Maiz_, and Pepper, mix’d together.

Over each Village in this Countrey the _Spaniards_ have plac’d an _Indian Casique_, _Alcalde_, and _Alguazil_, where all sorts of Provisions are sold at a Set-price.

The _Casiques_ are succeeded by their Heirs, who resent nothing worse than Affronts, and take pride in nothing more than their Valour.

The _Moors_ or _Negro_’s which are brought hither from _Guinee_, do all manner of hard Labour.

The _Guachichiles_ and _Guamares_ area valiant People, and have each their peculiar Language, utterly different from the _Mexican_.

[Sidenote: Division of _Nova Gallicia_.]

This Countrey comprehends these inferior Provinces: 1. _Guadalajara_; 2. _Xalisco_; 3. _Chiametta_; 4. _Couliacan_; 5. _Cinoloa_; all of them on the Western Shore. 6. _Zacatecas_, to which some add _Nova Biscaia_ and _Nova Mexico_, though others treat of them as distinct Countreys apart from the rest.

SECT. II.
Guadalajara.

[Sidenote: Bounds of _Guadalajara_.]

_Guadalajara_ is bounded on the West, with _Xalisco_; on the South and South-West, with _New Spain_; and on the North, with _Zacatecas_. It is a Countrey exceeding pleasant, and rich in all kind of Commodities, but especially in its Mines of Silver. It is well water’d with the River _Barania_, which runneth through the midst of it, and with divers other Streams: yielding abundantly both Wheat, _Maiz_, and some other Grain. In a word, there is nothing said of the properties of _New Gallicia_ in general, either for Soil, Climate, or People, but is peculiarly verifi’d of this Province.

[Sidenote: Towns and Cities.]

The chief Towns are 1. _Guadalajara_, which gives Name to the whole Province. It is seated on the Banks of the River _Barania_, in a most delectable and sweet Air, and a rich Soil, by advantage whereof it is become the Metropolis of _New Gallicia_, honour’d with an Episcopal See, which was translated thither from _Compostella_ in the Year 1570. with the Courts of Judicature, and the Residence of the King’s Treasurers for that Province. This City was built on the Plain _Molino_, by _Nunnez de Guzman_, in the Year 1531. The neighboring Mountains afford store of Timber. All manner of _Spanish_ Plants grow here likewise in great plenty. In the City is a Cathedral, several Cloysters, inhabited by _Augustine_ and _Franciscan_ Monks. The Bishop of this City belongs to the Arch-bishop of _Mexico_. The Air very temperate, neither molesting the Inhabitants with too great Cold, nor excess of Heat.

2. _St. Maria de los Lagos_, a Town thirty Leagues Eastward of _Guadalajara_, being a Fronteer Place, and built on purpose to secure the Countrey against the _Chichemecæ_, which are a barbarous and unreduc’d People of the North-East parts of this Countrey who harbouring themselves in Caves under Ground in the thickest huge Woods and Forrests, do oftentimes issue out, and make foul spoil in the Countrey where they come, having first intoxicated themselves with a Liquor made of certain Roots, and would do much more harm, if it were not for this Garrison.

3. _Del Spiritu Santo_, built by the Founder of the other two, _viz._ _Nunnez de Gusman_ aforesaid, in a part of the Countrey which they call _Tepeque_.

SECT. III.
Xalisco.

[Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Xalisco_.]

_Xalisco_, or _Galesco_, as some call it, is bounded on the North, with _Couliacan_; on the South, with some parts of _New Spain_; on the East, with the Province of _Guadalajara_; and on the West, with the Gulf or Bay of _California_.

The Countrey is chiefly fertile in _Maiz_ and Mines of Silver, not altogether so apt for Herbage and Pasture as some other Countreys about it. The People were Cannibals before the _Spaniards_ came amongst them, eating Man’s-flesh; were much given to quarrelling and Contentions amongst themselves, but by this time, ’tis suppos’d they are reasonably well reclaim’d both from the one and the other.

[Sidenote: Towns of chief note.]

In this Countrey, besides many other goodly Streams, is the great and famous River _Barania_, on the Banks whereof are seated most of their principal Towns, as 1. _Xalisco_, which gives Name to the whole Province, and to a large Promontory or Foreland on the Western Coasts, which shoots it self out into the Bay of _California_, right over against certain Islands, which the _Spaniards_ call The _Three Maries_. This was an ancient City or Town of the Natives, but sack’d and taken by _Nunnez de Gusman_, in the Year 1530.

2. _Compostella_, built by the aforesaid _Gusman_, and so nam’d from the City in _Spain_, so famous for the Grave of _James_ the Apostle, who (according to the _Roman_ Writers) was buried there, lies near the South Sea on a barren Soil, within the _Torrid Zone_; yet the Ground breeds many sorts of Vermine, besides other noxious Creatures; amongst which the _Capybara_ roots up whole Trees and other Plants in the Night. This Beast, resembling an indifferent large Hog, hath short Legs and Claws, thick Head, with a Beard, wide Ears, and on each Jaw-bone twenty four Teeth, besides two Tusks, but no Tail; it goes slow, but swims exceeding fast, and dives under Water for a considerable time together; they often feed together in great Herds, and make a terrible noise.

3. _La Purification_, a small Town on the Sea side, towards the Confines of _New Spain_.

SECT. IV.
Chiametla.

[Sidenote: Situation of _Chiametla_.]

Against _Xalisco_ juts _Chiametla_, along the South Sea, where the Inhabitants wear short cloaks, and Deer-skin Shoes; and in the Wars use Shields made of strong Twigs twisted together. The Women, which are indifferent handsom, are clad down to their Feet.

[Sidenote: Towns of principal note.]

The chief Town of this Province is _Sant Sebastian_, call’d from the River upon which it stands; it was built by Captain _Franciscus de Yvarra_, _Anno 1554._ who discovering many Silver Mines, hath made several Melting-houses, in which the Silver being melted swims upon the Lead.

SECT. V.
Couliacan.

[Sidenote: Bounds of _Couliacan_.]

Next to _Chiametla_, Westward and Southward of _Cinoloa_, lies _Couliacan_, Coasting all along the Bay of _California_, which it hath on the West; on the East it hath _New Biscay_; and on the South, _Xalisco_. The Countrey is not defective in any kind of necessary Provision, but more especially it aboundeth with Fruits of all sorts. But the _Spaniards_ look onely at the Mines, of which they have some few in this Countrey. The People were generally Cloth’d with Cotton-Wooll when the _Spaniards_ came first amongst them, but yet never a whit the more modest, being exceedingly given to Venery, and that in a more shameless and beastly manner than many other _Americans_ who went naked.

[Sidenote: Towns.]

The _Spanish_ Towns are these, 1. _Hiustula_, seated on the Banks of a fair River, distant about a days Journey from the Sea. 2. _Quinola._ 3. _Quatrobarrios_, an old Town of the Natives, but new nam’d by the _Spaniards_. 4. _El Leon_, an old Burrough. 5. _Couliacan_, the chief Town of the Province. 6. _St. Michael_, in the Valley of _Arroba_, two Leagues distant from the Sea, in a rich and plentiful Countrey, both for Corn and Fruit, whither it was remov’d from the Banks of the River _Orala_, where it first stood; it was built by _Nunnez de Gusman_ in the Year 1531. after he had burnt the Towns, and destroy’d a great number of the Natives, Inhabitants of the Countrey.

[Sidenote: _Nunnez de Gusman_ first Discoverer of this Countrey.]

[Sidenote: Serpents worshipp’d by the Natives.]

This Countrey was first discover’d by the aforesaid _Nunnez de Gusman_ (after he had built _Guadalajara_) after this manner: Marching from _Chiametla_ to _Piatzala_, he ruin’d this Province with Fire and Sword: he likewise conquer’d the Countreys of _Zapuatun_ and _Piaztla_; the first being a Plain, lay inclos’d within high Mountains, where the _Spaniards_ met none but Women, till they came to a great River call’d _De la Sall_, whose Banks on each side were well inhabited; the second juts against the Ocean, and is water’d by a River of the same Denomination. Here, within the Houses, (which are built after a strange manner) lay thousands of Serpents mingled together, with their Heads sticking out on the top and at the sides, and hissing with open Mouth at those which approached them. The Inhabitants shew’d great Reverence to these Serpents, because (as they said) the Devil often appear’d to them in that form. And this seems to be a Custome amongst them from the Tradition of _Eves_ being tempted by the Devil in the shape of a Serpent: Nor was this Superstition peculiar onely to these _Indians_, forasmuch as divers Nations of the ancient _Heathens_ of other parts of the World, worshipp’d the Likeness of a Serpent. And even amongst the _Greeks_, according to _Plutarch_, _Hesychius_, _Clemens Alexandrinus_, and others, it was no unusual thing in their religious Worship to call on _Eva_, and at the same time to shew a Serpent. _Plutarchus_ and _Ælianus_ say, That the _Egyptians_ honour’d a Serpent for their God. The same saith _Erasmus Stella_ of the old _Prussians_; _Sigismund Baro_, of the _Liflanders_; and _Alexander Guaginus_, of the _Sarmatians_ and _Samogethes_. Moreover, some write, that in the Province of _Calecut_ are Serpents with exceeding great Heads, and weighing as much as a great Hog, to which the King shews great Reverence; so that it seems the Devil takes delight to be worship’d in that shape wherein he work’d the Fall of Man-kind.

_Gusman_ leaving _Piaztla_ march’d to _Bayla_, where he found the great River _De Mugeres_, and the Countrey full of Woods and Pastures: thence travelling upwards along _Mugueres_, they ascended to the top of a Mountain, where they were assaulted by the Inhabitants of the aforesaid Village _Quinola_, whom nevertheless they soon put to flight; but not long after receiv’d a shrew’d Repulse at the Entrance into a Wood built full of Houses; yet nevertheless being at length Conquerors, though not without sufficient loss, they march’d farther in amongst the Mountains, till their Provisions beginning to grow scarce, and they seeing no likelihood of getting to an end of this troublesom Journey, at last their Necessities forc’d them to retire.

[Sidenote: The Fish _Guarapucu_.]

[Sidenote: The _Piracarba_.]

[Sidenote: Flying Fishes.]

The Flood which comes out of the Sea up to the City _St. Michael_, through the River _Cignatlan_, abounds with Fish, and especially the _Guarapucu_, which is seven Foot long when it comes to its full growth; it hath no Scales, but smooth Skin of a Silver colour mix’d with Green: from the Head to the Tail runs a crooked Line of thin Scales on each side; it swims exceeding swift, feeds on lesser Fishes, and spawns in the Sea: the Flesh being wholsom and good to eat, is salted up against Winter. At the same Place is also the _Piracarba_, which shines exceedingly, having Silver-colour’d Scales, a broad slit Tail, a long white Beard, four great Fins, and a little Head. Farther into the Sea are a sort of flying Fish, call’d _Pirabebes_, which rise by thousands up out of the Water, so escaping the _Dolphins_ and other Fish which prey on them; yet sometimes they are snatch’d up by the Birds, or else by the Fishes, when they dive down into the Water to wet their own Wings, which consist of a thin Skin, distinguish’d in length by tough Fins. These flying Fish also differ much one from another, for most of them are like Herrings; others have a thick Head, round before like the Dolphins.

Moreover, the Countrey about _St. Michael_ was always well inhabited. The Houses, being artificially built, were adorn’d on the top with many obscene Images, and venereal Representations: But since the _Spaniards_ have conquer’d this Countrey they have destroy’d them, and built other Houses in their stead, and also bestow’d much cost and labour on the Silver Mines _De las Virgines_.

SECT. VI.
Cinoloa.

[Sidenote: Bounds of _Cinoloa_.]

_Cinoloa_ is the most Northern part of _New Gallicia_, bounded on the West, with some part of the Gulf or Bay of _California_; on the East, with a long Ridge of Mountains, which they call _Tepecsuan_; on the North, with _Cibola_; and with _Couliacan_ on the South. This Country, besides the general fertility of the whole Province of _New Gallicia_, yields great store of Cotton-Wool, by reason whereof both Men and Women here are better Apparell’d, for the most part, than elsewhere the _Americans_ are; is exceedingly well water’d with Rivers, which descend from those Mountains _Tepecsuan_, not above thirty or forty Leagues distant from the Sea; and which, with the variety of their Streams and Meandrous glidings, do divide the Countrey into many and good Pastures, which are likewise stor’d with abundance of Kine, Oxen, and other Cattel.

[Sidenote: Towns.]