Chapter XXI: Front Matter (21)

The chief Towns possess’d by the _Spaniards_ are 1. _St. Philip_ and _Jacob_, seated towards the Sea side, on the Banks of a fair River, about thirty or forty Leagues distant from the Town of _Couliacan_.

2. _St. John de Cinoloa_, an ancient Colony of _Spaniards_, setled there by _Francisco de Yvarra_, in the Year 1554, which is all they have in this Countrey, except some few old Forts of the Natives, which they found, after their manner, poorly furnish’d; but have since repair’d them for Defence against the Natives of those Parts, which as yet remain unreduc’d.

[Sidenote: _Nunnez de Gusman_’s Travels.]

This Province was also discover’d by _Nunnez de Gusman_, who having rested some Weeks in _St. Michael_, proceeding on his Way, he Ferried over the River _Petatlan_, which receiv’d that Denomination because the Houses were cover’d with Mats, by the _Indians_ call’d _Petat_.

The People hereabouts were generally Man-eaters.

Eighteen Leagues farther runs the River _Tamochala_, which hath many Villages on both sides thereof.

Between _Petatlan_ and _Tamochala_ lie several desolate Wildernesses, and Woods of the _Brasile_-Tree.

But _Gusman_ travelling up twenty seven Leagues along the fore-mention’d River _Tamochala_, came to the Province _Cinoloa_, where they stay’d six Weeks, by reason of the abundance of Rains; during which time the Villagers provided them Turtle-Doves, Hares, Rabbets, and all sorts of Fowls; but at last deserted their Habitations in the Night: after which the _Spaniards_ crossing _Tamochala_ went along a barren Desart, where (had they not found Water in certain Wells, and likewise store of Juice out of the _Tunas_-Trees) they had without doubt perish’d; at last getting over the River _Yaguinu_, they found a deserted Village, out of which a broad Path led along the Stream; whither _Gusman_ marching, he came into a Plain, where he spy’d several _Indians_, which after some resistance were routed by the _Spanish_ Horse.

The Villages built on the Banks of the River _Yaguinu_, as also the Language of the Inhabitants differ little from the former.

Not far from hence a Ridge of Hills runs into the Sea, and also extend themselves a hundred Leagues towards _Xalisco_.

SECT. VII.
Zacatecas.

[Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Zacatecas_.]

The _Zacatecas_, as they call them, are bounded on the South, with _Guadalajara_; on the North, with _New Biscay_; on the West, with _Couliacan_ and some part of _Xalisco_; and on the East, with _New Spain_. The Countrey, especially the more Western part of it, is very rich in Silver Mines, no Province of this part of _America_ richer; but not so apt either for Wheat or _Maiz_. But the Eastern parts of it are abundantly stor’d with all sorts of Fruits, the Woods every where replenish’d with Deer, the Fields no less with Corn, and every Tree almost giving Entertainment to some Bird or other.

[Sidenote: Towns and Villages.]

The Towns are 1. _Las Zacatecas_, forty Leagues distant from _Guadalajara_, and fourscore from _Mexico_, but neighbor’d with most rich Mines, and therefore both Garrison’d and well peopled by the _Spaniards_; for ’tis suppos’d there are no less than five hundred Families of them in the Town, and about the Mines.

2. _St. Martins_, twenty seven Leagues distant from _Zacatecas_, and as rich a Place, having a Colony of four hundred _Spaniards_ at least.

3. _St. Lucas de Avinno._ 4. _Erena_, lesser Towns, but both of them rich, and seated in the midst of excellent Mines.

5. _Nombre de Dios_, in the most Northerly part of this Countrey, sixty eight Leagues distant from _Guadalajara_, and founded by the aforesaid _Francisco de Yvarra_; who having subdu’d and quieted the Natives, and thereby gain’d to himself the Government of these Countreys, granted the propriety of some Silver Mines both to the _Spaniards_ and to the Natives, and by that means drew so many of them thither, that in a short time it became the chiefest and best peopled town of the whole Province.

6. _Durango_, in the Valley of _Guadiana_, eight Leagues distant from _Nombre de Dios_, and built by _Yvarra_.

7. _Xeres de Frontera_, a Place built on purpose for the repressing of the _Chichemecæ_ aforesaid, and other Salvages that infested the Borders of _Guadalajara_, in the Regency of the Marquess of _Villa Manrique_.

8. Last, _St. Lewis_, built by _Alonso Pacheco_, in that part of the Countrey which is call’d _Uxitipa_, and peopled by him with a Colony of _Spaniards_, being distant about twenty Leagues from _Panuco_ in _New Spain_, to which the whole Countrey of _Uxitipa_ once belong’d.

[Sidenote: Several Mines discover’d by the _Spaniards_.]

The aforesaid _Franciscus de Yvarra_, _Anno 1554._ discover’d the Mine call’d _Sant Martin_, and since also _Lucas Avinno_, the Mine _Del Sombrereto_, lying near the City _Del Erena_: but the Mines _De los Ranchos_, _Chalchuites_, _De las Nieves_, and _Del Frisuillo_, would produce much more Silver, if the Mine-works were stor’d with Quicksilver. The Vice-Roy of _New Spain_, nam’d _Lodowick de Velasco_, order’d a certain number of Soldiers, Slaves, Horses and Mules, for every Mine, to defend the Workmen from the Assaults of the Natives, which oftentimes Sallied out upon them. Moreover, _Velasco_ sent Priests through all the Countrey to Preach the _Gospel_: But _Yvarra_ having the care of the Priests, guarded them with a company of Soldiers, and in his Way discover’d the Valley _San Juan_, and the River _De las Nacos_, where he conquer’d the rebelling Natives.

Near the Silver Mine _Sant Martins_ the Monks built a Cloyster; after which _Yvarra_ gave free leave to all that would, to dig in the Mine at _Avinno_, which he had bought, on condition they should pay the real fifth part of what they got, to the _Spanish King_: which Priviledge stirr’d up many, insomuch that _Avinno_ in a short time grew very populous. _Yvarra_, though having brought his Business to this pass, could not rest, but sent _Antonius Pacheco_ to a Valley in _Guadiana_, to build the foremention’d City _Durango_, where several Rivers make a convenient and delightful place for Habitation, whither _Yvarra_ follow’d three Moneths after, and finish’d the new Town. But the chiefest Silver Mines, which borrow their Denominations from the Province _Zacatecas_, are continually guarded by five hundred _Spaniards_, and as many Slaves.

CHAP. VII.
New Biscay.

[Sidenote: Bounds of _New Biscay_.]

_New Biscay_, by some accounted a Province of _New Gallicia_, hath on the South, _Zacatecas_; on the West, the Countrey of _Cinoloa_; Northward it is bounded with _New Mexico_; the Eastern Borders of it looking towards _Florida_, not yet well discover’d: so call’d by the _Spaniards_, onely from its neighborhood to _New Gallicia_. It is, as the other Provinces, exceeding rich in Silver Mines, and hath some also of Lead; which serve principally, as some say, for the refining or purging of the other Metal. The People generally are of a stout and resolute Disposition, and with much difficulty submitting to the Yoke; yea, the _Spaniards_ themselves confess, that there remain yet to this day four great Towns unreduc’d, though they lie, as it were, in the mid-way, betwixt the _Zacatecas_ aforesaid, and the Mines and Town of _St. Barbara_ of this Province: The Spaniards call them _Las Quatro Ceinegas_, or _The Four Quagmires_, as lying, perhaps, in the Marshes, or in some Fenny and lower parts of the Countrey.

[Sidenote: Towns and Cities.]

The Towns which themselves hold, are, 1. _St. Barbara_, famous for the rich Mines about it.

2. _St. Johns_, equal to the other, and not above three or four Leagues distant from it.

3. _Ende_, the most Northerly Town which the _Spaniards_ have in this Countrey, distant about twenty Leagues from the other.

These be all Colonies of the _Spaniards_, and built on purpose for securing the Mines; which when they were first discover’d by _Yvarra_, he order’d _Roderigo del Rio_ to guard the same, and took up his Winter Quarters at _St. Juan_ in a strong House, stor’d with all manner of Provisions, and erected there by him, as a place of defence against the _Chichimecæ_, who (though the _Spaniards_ kept the place with strong Guards) kill’d above four hundred of their Horses and Mules; which loss no way daunted him, so as to change his Resolution of going to _Topia_: whither travelling, he found many snowy Mountains, and suffer’d extream Cold, which kill’d most of their Horses; being seen fifteen days after to stand so stiffly frozen, as if still alive: at last getting within the Borders of _Topia_, after he had suffer’d many inconveniences, he was oppos’d by the Inhabitants, till he pacifi’d them with Presents.

SECT. II.

[Sidenote: Convenient Havens of _New Gallicia_.]

This Countrey hath many convenient Havens, _viz._ _San Jago_, _Navidad_, _Malacca_, _Chacalla_, below the Promontory _Corientes_, the Bay _Xalisco_, the Road _Massatlan_, and _Chiametla_, so call’d from a Town about eleven Leagues from the Ocean.

Here, and in several places of _New Gallicia_, grow Lillies, Roses, Violets, Jessamins, and many other Flowers; amongst which the _Floripondium_ deserves peculiar observation, because it flourishes the whole Year; and its white Blossoms, which are bigger than Lillies, opening in the Morning, yield an exceeding sweet smell.

[Sidenote: The Flower _Granadilla_.]

In no less esteem is the _Murucuia_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Granadilla_, which will not grow, if bereav’d of any of its Leaves: it bears a Flower from the resemblance of our Saviour’s Suffering, call’d _The Passion-Flower_, which exceeds the biggest Rose in circumference; the uppermost Leaves green, those underneath of a purple colour; on the top hangs a round Bush of a thousand interwoven threds of divers colours, distinguish’d by white and red Specks; the pale Stalk which sticks in the middle of the Flower, is divided into five others, that bend downwards with a yellow Button-like Knob; on the middlemost Stalk stands a pale yellow Flower, which appears three hours after Sun-rising, and closes again a little before Sun-set; the Fruit, which is very round, smooth, and of a pale Green, hath white Specks, a thick Rind, Saffron-colour’d Pulp, which is wholsom, of a good rellish, and hath abundance of black Seeds inclos’d in little Husks.

CHAP. VIII.
New Mexico.

[Sidenote: Bounds of _New Mexico_.]

_New Mexico_ (as ’tis call’d for distinction’s sake) is bounded on the South-West with _New Biscay_; more directly Westward, with some parts of _Quivira_; the Countreys Northward of it not yet discover’d; Eastward it extends it self as far as _Florida_.

This Province doubtless for largeness may compare with _New Gallicia_, having been search’d and discover’d by the _Spaniards_ above a hundred, some say two hundred Leagues directly Eastward, and to the North-East: and they report Wonders of it, if we may believe them, at least in respect of what was generally found in these Northern parts of _America_ at their first Discovery; as namely, That they have Towns fairly and well built of Lime and Stone, Houses of four Stories high, and most of them provided with Stoves for the Winter Season, as well as any in _Europe_; the Streets fair and broad, and the People as curious and expert in divers Arts and Manufactures as any of theirs. More particularly they tell us of a Town call’d _Chia_, of the Province of _Cuames_, so big, that it is said to contain eight several Market-places. Another call’d _Acoma_, a great Town, but seated on the top of an high Rock, without any ordinary way of access to it, but by a pair of Stairs hewn out of the hard Stone, or else by certain Ladders, which the Inhabitants let down and take up as they please. And likewise of a third, which they call _Conibas_, containing, as they say, no less than seven Leagues in length, and about half so much in breadth, seated upon a Lake, but scatteringly built, and much of the space taken up with Mountains and many fair Gardens, in the midst of which the Town standeth; of all which more hereafter. This is certain, that the Countrey to which they give the Name of _New Mexico_, is of a vast extent, reaching from the Mines of _St. Barbara_ in _New Biscay_ Eastward, and to the North-East, above two hundred Leagues already discover’d, but doubtless taking up no small part of those Countreys which are sometimes assign’d to _Florida_, if not of the Confines of _Virginia_ also.

[Sidenote: Travels of _Ruyz_, _Espejus_ and others.]

This Countrey was first, _Anno 1581._ discover’d by a _Franciscan_ Monk, nam’d _Augustine Ruyz_, who with two other Monks of his Order, got eight Soldiers of _Conde de Coruna_, Vice-Roy of _New Spain_, for his Companions; with whom he travell’d from the Valley _Sant Bartholomew_, to the Province _De los Tiguas_, where one of the two Monks was kill’d by the Natives, which occasion’d such a fear amongst the Souldiers, who judg’d themselves too weak to make any resistance, that they resolv’d to return, notwithstanding all the arguments which _Ruyz_ us’d to disswade them from it; yet nevertheless he and his Brother _Franciscus Lopez_ and four _Indians_, went onward of their Journey; which news the Souldiers carried back to the _Franciscans_ in _Sant Bartholomew_; who fearing their Brethren would be destroy’d, sent several Souldiers and a Monk, call’d _Bernardyn Beltran_, after them, who were also accompanied by _Antony Espejus_, who spent a great part of his Estate in raising of Men, providing Arms and Provisions, loading therewith a hundred and fifty Horses and Mules; with which he travell’d direct North from the fore-mention’d Valley, and after two days Journey found a People call’d _Conchi_, who went naked, and liv’d in Huts built together like a Village: They were Govern’d by _Casiques_, fed on Hares, Deer, Rabbets, _Maiz_, _Calabashes_, and Melons. Several adjacent Rivers afford them plenty of Fish. They were amaz’d at the Crosses which the _Spaniards_ there erected, till they were inform’d of a Crucifi’d Saviour. _Espejus_ being every where kindly Entertain’d amongst them, and conducted twenty two Leagues farther, came amongst the _Indians_ call’d _Passaguates_, of the like Constitution with the _Conchi_’s; who had skill in Minerals, and judg’d that there were many Silver Mines in that Countrey. From whence the _Passaguates_ travell’d with the _Spaniards_ to the Borders of the _Los Tobosos_, who no sooner saw them, but they fled, because a few years before they had been miserably dealt with by the _Spaniards_; but being inform’d by the Interpreters, that they needed not be afraid of any thing, they all appear’d, and conducted _Espejus_ to the Borders of the _Patarabueyes_; which People possess a large Countrey, Stone Houses and Villages built in good order. Great Rivers which come out of the North, and others that disembogu’d into the North Sea, afforded them all sorts of Fish; as also the Woods plenty of Venison, Fowls, and wholsom Plants. In some Pools also the salt Water afforded Salt.

The Valour of the Inhabitants may sufficiently appear by the rough Entertainment which the _Spaniards_ met withall the first Night; for the _Patarabueyes_ fell so fiercely upon them, that had not the Watch given notice thereof in time, none had escap’d with Life; nevertheless five Horses were kill’d, and a considerable number of Men wounded: after which retreating, they went upon a neighboring Hill, whither _Espejus_ sent his Interpreter, and an _Indian_ the same Countrey, to inform them, That the _Spaniards_ came not to molest them, and if they pleas’d to come to them, they should meet with none but Friends; which was the more easily credited, because the _Casiques_ receiv’d some Presents; after which being reconciled, they conducted the _Spaniards_ twelve days Journey up a long River, whose Banks were inhabited in several places. From thence they reach’d to a Place, inhabited by a People richly Cloth’d, who also seem’d to have some knowledge of God; for in their Discourse they pointed up to Heaven, call’d the Creator and Preserver of all things _Apalito_, and signifi’d that they had receiv’d that Knowledge formerly from those that were left of _Pamphilius Narvaez_’s Army, who having rang’d through _Florida_ were driven hither.

These People also Presented _Espejus_ many tann’d Skins, with which he went to a great Village, the Inhabitants whereof were very courteous, and barter’d them for brave Plumes of Feathers and Cotton Cloaks, streak’d with blue and white: but _Espejus_ having no Interpreters whom they could understand, could not learn by what Name they were known; yet by signs they express’d what time of the year they had Precious Stones brought to them; and also what their Countrey produced; and also that abundance of those Riches was to be found in a Province about five days Journey Westward from thence, whither they freely offer’d to conduct the _Spaniards_, which accordingly they did, bearing them company one and twenty Leagues to the next Province, inhabited by a People whose Name also they could not be inform’d of, yet staying three days amongst them, they were Entertain’d with Presents and Dances both Night and Day. The Countrey afforded them also store of Venison and Fruits: Those that understood Minerals, judg’d that there were likewise several Gold Mines.

Leaving this Province, they entred into a great Wilderness of Pine-Trees, in which they travell’d twelve Leagues in fifteen days, without seeing either Man or House; but at the end of the Wood they spy’d a Village of Straw Huts, where there were great quantities of white Salt, and Deer Skins neatly dress’d. The People of the Place courteously Entertain’d the _Spaniards_, and conducted them along the River _Del Norte_, to _New Mexico_: The Banks of the River on each side was planted with Nut-Trees and Vines, which spread themselves out above three Leagues; through which they had scarce pass’d three days together, when they saw ten populous Villages pleasantly seated on the said River, from whence came many thousands of the Natives to meet _Espejus_, who was not so much amaz’d at the great number of People, as at their extraordinary Civility and decent Habits; for they Entertain’d him with well dress’d Meat, roasted Poultrey, and pleasant Fruits: Their Garments were Cotton Cloaks, Deer-skin Breeches, Shoes and Boots of good Leather. The Women wore their Hair neatly Comb’d and Pleited. Their Houses were almost four Stories high, handsomely built, and divided into fair Chambers, had Stoves or Cells under Ground against the Cold in the Winter. Every Village was Govern’d by a _Casique_, whose Commands were publish’d by the _Alguaziles_. Each House had a peculiar place in which their Idol stood, before whom they set Meat twice a day. Near the High-ways stood Temples very curiously painted, wherein their Deity, as they say, diverted himself in his Progress from one Village to another. At certain Distances near their Plough’d Lands, stood _Portico_’s, supported on four Columns, under which the Husband-man us’d to eat, and take his Noon-sleep. Besides their Swords, which were strong enough to cut a Man through the Middle, they us’d Bowes and Arrows: Their Shields were made of Deer Skins.

_Espejus_ having stay’d here four days, went to the Province _De las Tiguas_, which had sixteen Villages; in the chiefest whereof, call’d _Poala_, _Augustine Ruyz_ and his Brother Monk _Franciscus de Lopez_ had been slain, besides four others; wherefore the People being conscious of this Crime, and fearing that Revenge would follow, fled to the Mountains, from whence they could not be enticed, whilst the _Spaniards_ found their Houses full of Provisions and some Minerals.

Now those being dead whom they sought for, some thought it convenient to return; but _Espejus_ and _Beltran_ perswaded the contrary, alledging, That farther up, according to the _Indians_ information, lay several Provinces which were worth the discovery, and advis’d that the chiefest part of their Forces might stay there, whilst they and some few resolute Men went farther upon the Discovery, which accordingly was perform’d. _Espejus_ having travell’d two days, came into a fruitful Province, jutting against _Cibola_, in which he found eleven Villages, inhabited by above fourteen thousand People, who were clad in Skins and Cotton, worshipp’d many Idols, and receiv’d the _Spaniards_ with great Civility.

The like Entertainment they met withall in the Countrey _Los Quires_, wash’d by the River _Del Norte_; near which stood five Villages, inhabited by about fifteen thousand People.

Thirteen Leagues farther they found _De los Cunames_, having also five Villages, the chiefest of which being _Cia_, boasted (as above mention’d) eight Market-places: The Houses, made of Lime, were neatly Painted, and compris’d in all above twenty thousand Persons, all civil People, who presented _Espejus_ and his Company with handsom Cloaks, set good boyl’d Meat before them, and shew’d them rich Minerals, and the Mountains out of which they got the same.

Of the like Constitution were the Inhabitants _De los Amires_, which being thirty thousand in number, resided in seven well built Villages, lying North-West from _Cunames_.

After this they march’d Westward, and found the eminent Village _Acoma_, mention’d before, built on an exceeding high Rock, to which led onely a narrow Path up a pair of Stairs cut in the Rock; as also many Wells to receive Rain, besides what they have out of a River, led by Moats round about their Plough’d Lands. The _Spaniards_ staying here three days, were Entertain’d with all sorts of good Meat, Dances and Drolls.

From hence travelling twenty four Leagues more Westerly, they entred the Province of _Zuny_; where the erected Crosses which had remain’d there till that time, were sufficient testimonies of _Cornaro_’s having been there, after he was deserted by _Andreas de Cuyocan_. _Casper de Mexico_, and _Antonius de Guadalajara_, being setled on _Zuny_, (otherwise call’d _Cibola_) and speaking the _Indian_ Tongue better than their Native Language, inform’d _Espejus_, that sixty days Journey farther lay a great Lake, whose Shores were crown’d with many brave Villages, inhabited by a People which wore Golden Armlets and Ear-rings; whither _Franciscus Vasquez_ had gone a second time, had not Death prevented him. This Information so encourag’d _Espejus_, that notwithstanding it was so great a Journey, yet he resolv’d to venture thither, though the Monk _Beltran_ and most of his Company perswaded him to the contrary; whereupon _Beltran_ return’d: After which _Espejus_ went on to the said Lake; whither he was accompanied with a hundred and fifty _Indians_. Having gone twenty six Leagues, he found a populous Province, whose Borders he no sooner approach’d, but he was told, _That if he was willing to lose his Life, he and his Party might enter into a forbidden Dominion_; yet notwithstanding this threatning Message, he wrought so much upon the _Casique_ by the Presents which he sent him, that he was permitted to come in freely; nay, the Inhabitants of _Zaguato_ strow’d Meal on the Earth for the _Spaniards_ to go over, and presented _Espejus_ at his departure with forty thousand Cotton Cloaks, and a considerable quantity of Plate, which he sent with five of his Soldiers, and all the _Cibolan Indians_, back to _Cibola_, keeping onely four Companions and one Guide, with whom he travell’d forty one Leagues Westward; where he found a Mountain, to the top whereof led a broad Path; which ascending, he took up Silver Oar with his own Hand. The several sorts of People that inhabited here were all civil and courteous, living in good fashion, in pretty large Houses, built on the Banks of a pleasant River, shaded with Vines and Nut-Trees, and thick planted with Flax: They inform’d _Espejus_, that near a River which runs eight Miles towards the North Sea, were such stately Palaces, as could not be beheld without great admiration. But _Espejus_ going back a plain Road to _Cibola_, found not onely those whom he had sent from _Zaguato_, but also _Beltran_, with the other Soldiers, who having been detained there by the Civilities and kind Entertainments of the _Indians_, were now upon returning home; so that _Espejus_ was left alone with eight Soldiers, who resolv’d to venture their Lives and Fortunes with him. They travell’d along the River _Del Norte_, through the Provinces _De los Guires_ and _Habutas_, whose Mountains, over-spread with Pine-Trees and Cedars, have many rich Mines. The Natives wore painted Cotton Cloaks, and dwelt in stately Houses five Stories high. At the Borders of the Realm _Los Tamos_ they were stopt, and not permitted to come on farther; wherefore being but few in number, and several of them sick, they judg’d it convenient to cross the River _De las Vaccas_ (so call’d from the abundance of Cows that were thereabouts) to the River _Conchos_ and the Village _Bartholomew_, where _Espejus_ was inform’d, that _Beltran_ was long before his arrival gone to _Guadiana_.

And now that we may have the better Account of _New Mexico_ (which _Ruyz_, _Espejus_, and _Beltran_ endeavor’d to discover) it will be necessary to begin with the first original thereof, according as several ancient Histories make mention.

[Sidenote: First original of the _New Mexicans_.]

The most ancient Possessors of that part of _Northern America_ call’d _New Spain_, were for their fierce and salvage Nature call’d _Chichimecæ_, who dwelling in Caves, fed on Moles, Rabbets, Hedghogs, Serpents, Roots and Herbs. Whilst the Women accompanied their Husbands in their Travels, the Children were put into Baskets, and hang’d in a Tree. No manner of Government was to be found amongst them. They never Till’d their Ground till the _Navatlacans_ came from _New Mexico_ (which was anciently divided into two Countreys, _Aztlan_ and _Teuculhuacan_) to _New Spain_; after which they Sow’d their Lands.

The _Navatlacans_ (who us’d to dwell in Houses, worship Images, plough their Lands, and obey their Governors) were divided into six Tribes, each Tribe possessing their limited Bounds: and there goes a Tradition, That out of six Pits that are to be seen in _New Mexico_, the _Navatlacans_ had their original. The time when they deserted _New Mexico_, as their most authentick Histories or Records declare, was (according to our computation) _Anno 940._ and they farther affirm, that they spent forty years in a Journey, which might have been travell’d in a Moneth: The reason of which tediousness was, because they rested in all places where they found a fruitful Countrey; but as they had advice from their diabolical Spirits, which (as they say) appear’d visibly to them, they still went on farther and farther, yet left behind those that were aged, sick, and decrepid, building convenient Houses for them, and appointing Overseers to look after them. The Ruins of the Houses are yet to be seen on the Way along which they pass’d.

The six Tribes divided themselves after this manner: Four of them setled round about the great Lake of _Mexico_. The _Sichumilans_ taking the South part, built, besides two other Towns, a Metropolis of their own Name, as the _Chalcans_ on the North. The _Tapunecans_ built _Azcapuzalco_ in the West, which signifies _A Pismires Hole_, because of the abundance of Inhabitants. The Eastern part was taken up by the _Chalhuans_. And all these Names have a peculiar signification; the first signifies _People of Flowry Fields_; the second, _People of Mouthes_; the third, _People of Bridges_; and the fourth, _Crooked People_. Not long after, the _Tatluicans_, a strong People, went over the Mountains on the other side of the _Mexican_ Lake, where they built several Towns on a hot, yet fruitful Soil, the chiefest whereof they call’d _Quahunachua_, that is, _A Place where an Eagles Voice is heard_. The _Tlascaltecans_ went near the Snowy Mountains, one of which, being between _Mexico_ and _De los Angelos_, vomits horrid Flames and Smoke up into the Skie. Here scattering up and down, they built several Villages, besides the City _Tlascalla_; the Inhabitants whereof assisted the _Spaniards_, as hath been related in the taking of _Mexico_, for which good Service they live free, without paying any Tribute.

When these six Tribes came first from _Mexico_ thither, the _Chichimecans_ made little or no resistance against them, but hid themselves amongst the Rocks: yet some of them not long after taking courage, flew to Arms, and had without doubt destroy’d the _Tlascallans_, had not a subtile Plot sav’d them: for under a shew of Friendship they falling on the unarm’d _Chichimecans_, kill’d every Man of them.

_Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, that _Anno 1586._ he saw a Grave in _Mexico_, wherein a _Chichimecan_ of a Gygantick size lay buried.

After this Conquest gotten by the _Tlascallans_, the fore-mention’d six Tribes liv’d in Peace and Quiet, and strengthned themselves the more by Marrying into one anothers Families.

The _Chichimecæ_ keeping on the Mountains left the new People in quiet possession of their Lands, nay, learnt some of their Customs, insomuch that they began to build Huts, chuse Governors, and live according to their Laws.

[Sidenote: The first March of the _Mexicans_ into _New Spain_.]

The _Tlascallans_ having possess’d _New Spain_ three hundred and two years, a seventh Tribe (a valiant and civiliz’d People) came thither, upon their Dæmon _Viztlipuztli_’s promise of having the supream Government: wherefore he was carried in an Ark by four chief Priests, whom he inform’d whither and when they should travel or rest, for where ever they stopt, they built a Tent in the middle of their Army for their Idol, whom they set on an Altar; which done, they Sow’d the Ground about them: yet if their _Dæmon_ commanded them to march before Harvest, then they left the Product to the ancient and sick People. But at last _Mexi_, from whence the Name of _Mexico_ is deriv’d, conducted the Army into _Mechaocan_, where the pleasant Soil among the Lakes entic’d many to take up their Habitation. But _Mexi_ proceeded on his Journey, yet not without great Crosses, in regard _Viztlipuztli_’s Sister (some Inchantress probably so call’d) did much hurt to the whole Army by her Sorceries, because they would not honor her as a Goddess, till _Viztlipuztli_ inform’d one of them that carried the Ark, that the Army should march on, and banish the Witch from them: whereupon she accordingly being driven away, built the Village _Malinalco_, as a Habitation for Conjurers. Mean while, the Army grew weaker and weaker by their leaving so many People behind them in most places; therefore they judg’d it convenient to rest a while in _Tula_, where a great River water’d the Countrey; which, according to _Viztlipuztli_’s Commands, being dry’d up, made a large Lake about the Mountain _Coatepeck_, whose Banks being planted with Willow and Poplar-Trees, were exceeding pleasant, and the more, because of the variety of Birds that made their Nests in the same; which so delighted many of the People, that being tir’d with travelling, they resolv’d to settle there; which Resolution was so ill resented by _Viztlipuztli_, that he commanded the Bank to be broken, that the Water might have liberty to flow its former Course, and threatned them with heavy punishments: after which in the Night a terrible Cry of Murder was heard in one part of the Army; which being inquir’d after the next Morning, they found divers People lying on the Ground with their Breasts cut open, and their Hearts pull’d out: whereupon those that remain’d went onto _Chapultepec_, where they fortifi’d themselves in the Mountains against the adjacent People, which _Copil_, Son to the _Malinalcon_ Witch, had rais’d up against them; and soon after the _Tapunecans_ and _Chalcans_ went against their new Neighbors, with whom they began a bloody Fight, when _Vitzilovitli_, at that time General of the _Mexican_ Army, pressing in amongst them, broke their Ranks, and made way for all his Army (though with his own Death) to march Conquerors to _Culhuacan_: The Prince of which Province gave them a Place to settle on, near the white Water _Ticaapan_, whose Shores swarm’d with Adders and Serpents, upon Design that the Strangers might be destroy’d by them; but it prov’d quite otherwise: for they without regret eat the poysonous Animals; and Dunging the unfruitful Soil, receiv’d a plentiful Harvest: They would willingly have setled here, after their so long ranging up and down, if _Viztlipuztli_ would have approv’d thereof; but he told them, that they must possess themselves by Arms, and make a _Culhuacan_ Maid their Goddess: whereupon they desir’d the _Casique_’s Daughter of _Culhuacan_, who was sent them in rich Ornaments, and with a stately Retinue: But she was no sooner entred on the _Ticaapan_ Shore, but they flay’d her alive, and her Skin being stuff’d, and nam’d _Tocci_, was religiously worshipp’d. But not satisfi’d with this cruelty, they sent for her Father to visit his Daughter in her Dignity; who accordingly coming with great Attendance, was led into a dark Chappel, where by the burning Tapers he knew the Goddess to be no other than his Daughters Skin stuff’d full of Cotton; whereat burning with rage, he afterwards fell upon these Murderers with all his Forces, and drove them to the Place where they afterwards built _Mexico_.

We have often made mention heretofore of the Governor of this Journey, _Viztlipuztli_, it will therefore be necessary to give an exacter Description of him, as followeth:

[Sidenote: Description of the Image _Viztlipuztli_.]

He was a woodden Image like a Man, sitting on a blue Seat in a triumphant Chair; at each end of which was plac’d a Staff with a Serpents Head upon it, from whose Forehead, which was Painted blue, ran a Streak of the same colour, cross his Nose to both his Ears; upon his Head stood a Plume of Feathers, the ends whereof were tipp’d with a golden Varnish; his left Hand held a white Shield, on which stuck five Feathers, and on the top a Laurel Bough; next the Shield lay four Arrows, pretended to be sent from Heaven; in his right Hand a Truncheon, full of blue crooked Streaks like Serpents; behind on his Shoulders appear’d Wings, not unlike those of a Bat, his Eyes large and round, and his Mouth reaching from Ear to Ear, made him terrible to behold, also gaping, and full of Teeth, which stuck out of his Belly; in his Breast also were two fiery Eyes, and under them a shrivell’d Nose; his Feet ended in Claws, hung round about with Precious Jems, golden Boxes and Shields set out with divers colour’d Feathers. The Curtain behind which this Idol sat, was not drawn open except on a Feast-Day.

Next _Viztlipuztli_ stood generally a lesser Image, call’d _Tlaboc_, and also the Goddess _Tocci_, Daughter to the Prince of _Culhuacan_, who (as before mention’d) was flay’d by their _Dæmon_’s Command. Since which time they suppos’d, that they were never more acceptable to their Gods, than when they appear’d Cloth’d in another Man’s Skin; and accounted no Offering better, than a Heart taken out of their Enemies Breast, since their Spirit destroy’d so many after that manner in the Army at _Tula_.

[Sidenote: _Tocci_’s Festival.]

But _Tocci_, they say, had also a Son much inclin’d to Hunting, whose Image they carry, attended by a thousand People, with the sound of Horns and Trumpets, to an Arbor on a high Mountain; which being made of green Leaves pleited, had in the middle an Altar, on which they set the Idol, whilst the Multitude surrounded the Foot of the Mountain, and set all the Bushes about the same on Fire; which done, they shouted and hollow’d, and play’d on several Instruments; which frighting the wild Beasts that lay shelter’d in the Woods, made them run to the top of the Mountain, where they were more and more inclos’d by the People, insomuch that many of them were slain for an Offering before _Tocci_’s Son’s Altar; which done, they carried the Idol back to his Temple, and the People made Merry with the slain Venison.

[Sidenote: Description of _Tezcatlipuca_’s Image.]

As great Reverence they shew’d to _Tezcatlipuca_, because (as they said) he pardon’d their Sins. This Idol was made of a black shining Stone, richly Apparell’d, having Golden Ear-rings; in his undermost Lip a Silver Sheath, in which stuck sometimes a green, and sometimes a blue Plume of Feathers; his Hair was ty’d with an embroider’d String, at the end of which hung a Golden Ear, whereon Smoak was Painted, signifying the Prayers of oppress’d Sinners; moreover, the String hung full of Pearls, and about the Neck in a String hung a Jewel; on his Breast, as also on his Navel, a green Stone; in his left Hand he held a Fan made of a Gold Plate, in which stuck many colour’d Feathers: this Plate glittering like Glass, was in stead of a Mirrour for _Tezcatlipuca_, to observe all worldly Transactions in the same: and to punish Criminals, he held four Darts in his right Hand. His Feast they kept once in four years.

This Idol also had the Command of Hunger, Drought, Famine, and pestilential Distempers; wherefore he had quite another shape, sat on a Stool behind a red Curtain embroider’d with dead Mens Bones and Sculls; his Body Coal black, his Head stuck full of Quails Feathers, a Quiver with four Arrows in his left, and a Rod in his right Hand, which made the Image seem very terrible.

The Idol _Quetzalcoalt_, being their Guardian over the Merchants, was plac’d in a high Temple, being shap’d like a Man, his Face onely excepted; for that resembled a Bird’s Head, with a red Bill full of Teeth, a Comb, and a long Tongue; on the hind-part of his Head stood a Mitre, and about his Legs Silk Garters beset with Pearls.

CHAP. IX.
Cibola, Tontonteac, and Nova Granada.

Though the Province of _Zuny_ above-mention’d in the Chapter of _New Mexico_, in the Voyage of _Espejus_, be there otherwise call’d, and appear to be the same with _Cibola_, yet we find it not treated of by any as part of _New Mexico_, but by some as a distinct Province, by others as a part of _California_ largely taken; for besides that _California_, properly so call’d, hath formerly been taken rather for a _Peninsula_ than an Island, and still affords to some an Argument of question, whether it be one or the other. The whole extent of the Province generally so term’d, hath been reputed to comprehend the suppos’d _Peninsula_ it self, _Cibola_, _Quivira_, and _Nova Albion_; but since, according to the best Maps and Discoveries, there seems little doubt to be made, that _California_, strictly taken, is a perfect Island: and since upon that Consideration we have reserved it to be describ’d amongst the Islands of _Northern America_, we also consequently judge it most requisite to consider those Countreys apart that were included in the extended _California_.

[Sidenote: Situation, Temperature, and Productions of _Cibola_.]

_Cibola_ lieth Southward of _Quivira_, betwixt it and _New Gallicia_, to the North and East: on the West it hath _Mar Vermiglio_, or the Bay of _California_. The Air of the Province is indifferently temperate, especially if compar’d to the sharp Frosts and Colds of _Quivira_. The Countrey is for the most part level and plain, as _Quivira_ is, having but few Trees in it, except here and there some Woods of Cedars, which yet do abundantly supply the Natives both with Timber and Fewel. The Ground affords plenty of _Maiz_, and some small white Pease, of both which they usually make Bread. There is great store of Venison, and a kind of Sheep (as they say, and as it should seem by their Fleece) as big as some little Horses or Oxen, some of their Horns weighing forty or fifty Pound: But perhaps by some mistake of Authors, this Beast may be no other than _Taurus Mexicanus_, elsewhere describ’d, whose Hair is extreamly thick and shaggy, and of which they make Cloth as of Wool, as hath been said. There are also Lyons, Bears, and Tygers in this Province, in such numbers, that the People of the Countrey are not a little troubled with them, and would gladly destroy them if they knew how. The People are generally well Limb’d, tall of Stature, and seem to be a little more Ingenious than their Neighbors of _Quivira_; yet they go naked many of them, onely cover’d with Mantles made of Skins, which are many times painted, and that with such Curiosity and Art, as do sufficiently argue, that neither themselves nor their Neighbors of _Quivira_, from whom they have them in Traffick, do make them, but that they are the Merchandise and Commodity of some other Nations, perhaps of _Cathay_ or _China_, who, by the North-West Seas, do Trade with the Maritime Parts, and People of _Quivira_.

This part of the Countrey hath been reasonably well search’d by the _Spaniards_, but as yet nothing discover’d so considerable, as to perswade them to stay in it.

That which seems most observable, is the great Lake _Tonteac_, situate almost in the midst of the Province; upon which, or near unto it, they found seven or eight old Towns of the Natives, some whereof contain’d four or five hundred of their Cottages or little Houses, and were fortifi’d also with Ramparts, and other Works of Defence, so as the _Spaniards_ could not become Masters of them, but by Force and Storming: In the attempt whereof _Vasquez Coronado_, their Commander in chief, was twice beaten down with Stones by the Natives; yet at last carrying the Place, he found in it good plenty of _Maiz_ indeed, which was some refreshment to his Army, but nothing else: whereupon having nam’d the Place _Granada_, in memory of the Vice-Roy of _New Spain_, who sent him upon that Expedition, he departed. In his return homeward he fell upon a certain Countrey, which he nam’d _Tucayan_, of which his Companions report great matters; as first, of a certain River call’d _Huex_, on the Banks whereof, in the space of twenty Leagues, or thereabouts, there stand no less than fifteen good Burroughs, well built, and furnish’d likewise with Stoves or Hot-houses, against the Cold, as in other Countreys of _Europe_; as also of a very fruitful and pleasant Valley, which they therefore call’d _Aroba de Corazones_; of another great Town and Territory, call’d _Chichilticala_; and lastly, of the Valley of _Nuestra Sennora_, or _Our Ladies Dale_, in the South parts of the said Territory, all of them describ’d for such rich and delicious Places, that some take them for the _Campi Elisii_ of _America_, especially seeing the _Spaniards_ were never known to visit them a second time, the Discoveries that have been made since being onely of the North-West Parts of the Countrey, along the Coasts of _Mar Vermiglio_, and this no farther than onely to give Name to certain Capes or Promontories which they met with, as namely 1. _Porto de St. Clara_, near to the Mouth of the River which they call _Rio del Nordt_. 2. _Las Playas._ 3. _St. Michael._ 4. _Lago del Oro_, which bordereth on _Quivira_; and lastly, _El Rey Coronado_, Eastward of that.

[Sidenote: _Tontonteac._]

_Tontonteac_ is mention’d by so few, and by those few so obscurely, that it cannot well be determin’d to be any other than that Countrey which lies about the great Lake _Tonteac_, above spoken of in _Cibola_, and which being made Habitable by six or seven Towns not inconsiderable for Habitations of native _Indians_, might haply pass for a distinct Province. And perhaps the reason why this Province hath been so obscure, and little taken notice of, might be from the ruine of these Towns by War, or some other Accident: and to this purpose are the words of a late Writer, _The Province of_ Tontonteac (saith he) _hath five Houses onely left, which stand on the Shore of a salt Lake_.

[Sidenote: _Nova Granada_ a Province of _Northern America_.]

_Nova Granada_, besides that it is a generally known and describ’d Province of _Southern America_, is also nam’d amongst the Provinces of _Northern America_, particularly by _Bertius_, _Cluverius_, and _Golnitzius_, and in some late Maps of _America_ so conspicuously specifi’d, that it might appear to be all that Tract of Land which contains both _New Mexico_ and the several Provinces adjoyning to it; but since we find it not describ’d by any at large, it will with most verisimility pass for that part of _New Mexico_ where stands the City of _St. Foy_; and this is most plainly express’d by Monsieur _Martini_, though there are who confound _Cibola_ with _New Granada_. Waving which Decision, we shall onely insert a short Description of the Place, according to _Cornato_, who seems to have been one of the first Discoverers of these Parts, and whose Credit is preferr’d before that of _Marcus de Niza_.

[Sidenote: Its Description.]

_Nova Granada_ (saith he) consists of seven Villages, built in the circumference of four Leagues, the chiefest whereof boasts two hundred Houses, which for the most part are four or five Stories high, and built of Stone; the Cellars thereto belonging, being neatly Pav’d, serve for Stoves against the Cold: they ascend to their upper Rooms by Ladders. The Inhabitants go naked, onely some Covering about their Middle, and over their Shoulders Cotton Cloaks, painted with divers Colours. They live on _Maiz_, white Pease, Hares, Rabbets, and Venison: their Salt wherewith they season the same, they fetch from a neighboring Lake. The Turkies, which they have in great numbers, are kill’d onely for their Feathers, notwithstanding their Flesh is exceeding good Meat. The Soil is for the most part plain, yet hath some high Mountains; and the Pastures flourish with Grass. The Woods abound with Bears, Tygers, Lyons, wild Hogs, Rhinocerots, and the like ravenous Beasts, which make the Ways dangerous for Travellers. Besides large Deer, there are also Sheep, which in bigness may compare with Horses, having exceeding great Horns, and little Tails.

Concerning the abundance of _Turkoises_, of which _Niza_ makes mention, _Cornato_ could give no certain account, because a little before his Arrival the _Granadians_ had convey’d their Children, which were under fifteen, and the aged People, who were above sixty years of age, with their chiefest Goods, into remote places. However, it is not unknown, that this Countrey affords _Turkoises_; for _Cornato_ in his Journey to _Quivira_, Besieg’d a City in these Parts near a great River; the Inhabitants whereof, when they were not able to defend themselves any longer, throwing their Cloaks, _Turkoises_, and other Riches into the Fire, Sallied out upon the _Spaniards_, and died not altogether unreveng’d, as shall be specifi’d more at large in the Description of _Tignes_, which being nam’d among the Towns of _Quivira_, will upon the comparing of Circumstances, be apparently found to be the same with this.

Lastly, _New Granada_ hath no Fruit-Trees, but little Cedars fit for Building.

CHAP. X.
Quivira.

_Quivira_ is the next Region accounted of _California_, largely taken; yet appearing by some Charts to lie so vastly remote, that all _New Mexico_, _Gallicia_, and other Provinces already mention’d, lie between that and the Island. And whereas _New Granada_ is by several made a part of _New Mexico_; yet most certain it is, that by some it is confounded with this Countrey, or at least accounted a part thereof, as hereafter shall more plainly appear, according to the Account of those that have most fully and particularly describ’d it.

[Sidenote: Situation of _Quivira_, and Description of the Inhabitants.]

_Quivira_ takes up the most Northern and unknown part of _America_ towards the West, reaching as far as the supposed _Straight_ of _Anian_ aforesaid (if there be any such) or else joyning to the Continent of _Tartary_. It is likewise the least fruitful of all the _West-Indies_, especially for Corn. Cattel it hath good store, and Pasturage indifferent good, the Countrey being for the most plain and level, and nothing else but Pasturage. The Natives are few and salvage, living in Hoards or great Companies together, after the manner of the _Tartars_, to whom they are Neighbors, and (as it is not improbably thought) of their Race. The Men Clothe themselves most commonly in that kind of Oxes Hide, elsewhere spoken of under the Name of _Taurus Mexicanus_. The Women wear little else but their Hair, notwithstanding the Countrey, especially for one half of the year, is excessive cold. Their Cattel, though they are much less than the ordinary Kine of _Europe_, are the chief Sustenance and Employment of the Natives; by Pasturing huge Herds whereof from place to place, the People live, and maintain a Traffick with other Parts. Yet some of them inhabit Towns, the chief whereof, as yet discover’d, seem to be these which follow:

[Sidenote: Towns of chief note.]

1. _Acus_, or _Acuco_, a small Town, but seated in a strong defensible place, and being a great Staple for Cotton, the Territory about it hath been taken for a distinct Province, and by some call’d _The Kingdom of Acuco_.

2. _Tignes_, a Town seated upon the Banks of a River bearing the same Name, and inhabited, it seems, by a stout and resolute People, and whom the _Spaniards_, coming amongst them in the Year 1540. had much ado to master: for they endur’d a Siege for the space of six Weeks; and at last finding themselves so strongly begirt by their Enemies, that there was no means to escape but by Death, or yielding up themselves, rather than they would fall alive into their hands, they first buried and spoil’d all such Treasure as they had (which were chiefly Saphires, and a few other Gems, that the Countrey afforded) and after that setting on fire their Housholdstuff, they took their Wives and Children with them, and made a desperate Sally out upon the _Spaniards_; wherein although they were most of them slain, and trod under the Horses Feet, or drown’d in passing the River, yet was it not without some loss to the _Spaniards_ themselves: nor would those few that were left behind deliver up the Town, till it was fir’d about their Ears, and that they could no longer abide in it. This Town, by all Circumstances, must needs be the same with that before mention’d in _Nova Granada_, which makes good what we have said above, _viz._ That _New Granada_ is by some confounded with, or at least taken for a part of this Region.

3. _Cicuic_, another small Town, four days Journey from _Tignes_. The Countrey about this place, although generally it be all good Pasturage, and maintains abundance of Cattel, yet is it so open and plain, that for almost a hundred Miles together, the _Spaniards_, in their March hither from _New Spain_, found neither Stone nor Tree, nor any thing else that could serve them for a Land-mark; so that they were forc’d, as they march’d along, to raise up Heaps of Cow-dung, to serve them for direction in their coming back, which was not long after: for not finding the Commodities they sought for, and fearing to be surpris’d by Winter in those cold Countreys, where they had no kind of accommodation, they made somewhat a hasty Retreat, leaving behind them onely some few Religious Men, of the Order of _St. Francis_, whose Endeavours to do the People good by Converting them to the true Knowledge and Worship of Almighty God, procur’d them not long after, the Crown of Martyrdom, being murder’d all of them, except one, by the Natives, and he not without much difficulty escaping their Hands.

[Sidenote: _Nova Albion._]

_Nova Albion_ was so denominated by Sir _Francis Drake_, when he was there Entertain’d by the King of that Countrey; but whether it were in _Quivira_ that he was thus Entertain’d, and left that Denomination, or in the Island of _California_, appears not either from the Relation, or from the common Consent of Cosmographers, since some there are, who will have _Quivira_ and _Nova Albion_ to be one and the same Province; others reckon it to be the utmost North-West part of _California_; others make it distinct from _Quivira_, yet determine it not to the Island _California_, seeming rather to make it an adjoyning Countrey to _Quivira_: wherefore finding little else that concerns the Description of the Place, except the said Voyage of _Drake_, we shall here set it down, and leave the farther Disquisition concerning the Situation of the Place, till we come to describe the Island of _California_ it self.

[Sidenote: Sir _Francis Drake_’s Arrival there.]

Captain _Francis Drake_ set Sail from _Plymouth_ _Anno 1577._ and after much hardship getting through the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, arriv’d in the Haven _Guatulco_, having before his coming thither taken as many rich _Spanish_ Ships in the Southern Ocean as he could possibly have wish’d for, so that his onely care now needed to have been how to get safe home; yet he put on a Resolution, not to come short of _Ferdinandus Magellanus_, who Saild about the World. Which brave Resolution of _Drake_’s was approv’d of by all his Sea-men; whereupon he set Sail along the North of _California_ the fifth of _June_; being gotten into forty two Degrees, which was the farthest that _Cabrillo_ went, he came on a sudden out of a warm Air into so frigid a Climate, that the Sea-men were almost kill’d with Cold, and the farther they went, the colder it grew; wherefore falling down three Degrees more Southerly, they got into a convenient Haven, where the Natives who liv’d along the Shore brought them Presents; which _Drake_ left not unrequited, by returning them others, that were to them more novel, and not unuseful.

[Sidenote: Nature and Habit of the People.]