Chapter XXXI: Front Matter (31)

[Sidenote: Being Shipt for _Spain_, is brought back by _Alvaradez_.]

[Sidenote: Is put to flight and pursu’d by _Pizarro_.]

[Sidenote: The Vice-Roy slain by _Carvayales_.]

[Sidenote: _Pizarro_’s Luxury, and Tyranny.]

[Sidenote: _Vela Nunnez_ and _La Torre_ Plotting against _Pizarro_, are
taken and Executed.]

This Proclamation was like to put the _Spaniards_ into an uproar: for at that time a _Peruvian_ Lord was forc’d to allow every Foot-Soldier three Slaves, and a Horseman five, besides Hens, Rabbets, Eggs, the Wine _Azun_, and other Provisions, for nothing. The general Complaints were, _Is this the Reward for our Service which we have shewn to the Emperor? Is not this mighty Kingdom of_ Peru _by our Blood and Labor joyn’d to the Imperial Crown? Our Shoulders are grown sore under our Arms, our Bodies made useless with Wounds, and our Limbs lame’d with Bruises. Who shall maintain our Wives and Children, if the_ Peruvians, _who according to the Law of Arms are become our Slaves, should not be forc’d to fish for Pearls in the Sea, and dig us Silver out of the Mines, and do us other Service for to maintain us?_ But _Vela_ being deaf to these Complaints, resolv’d that the Emperor’s Commands should be fulfill’d, and that those that spake against them should lose their Lives: and that he might terrifie the generality with the punishment of a few, he caus’d Fryer _Peter_ of the Order of the Virgin _Mary_ to be Executed in _Truxillo, Castro_ to be committed to Prison at _Lima_, because he had put _Almagro_ to death without Examination, and shut the Gates of _Cusco_ when his Agent came before the same. But do what he could, the _Spaniards_ generally making Head, utterly refus’d to obey the Emperor’s Edicts, and chose _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ for their General, who rais’d five hundred Men in compleat Arms in _Cusco_, from whence he march’d directly with them to _Los Reyos_, under pretence to deliver a Petition there to the Vice-Roy’s Council, about deferring to put the new Edicts in force till the Emperor was better inform’d of the present Condition of the _Peruvian_ State; twenty great Field-pieces being also order’d to follow _Pizarro_’s Army, were carried by the _Peruvians_ over craggy Mountains; to each Gun without the Carriage were order’d three hundred Men, of whom twelve at a time carried it in their turns a hundred Paces a piece; though several eminent Persons considering the weightiness of the Affair, forsook _Pizarro_’s Party, and went privately to the Vice-Roy, as on the other side, many deserting the Vice-Roy joyn’d with _Pizarro_, who being not a little supply’d by _Peter Puelles_ Governor of _Guanaca_, took several of those that had deserted him Prisoners, and put them all to death, whilest the Vice-Roy made what Preparations possibly he could, Hanging many innocent Persons onely on suspicion of holding Correspondency with _Pizarro_, insomuch that there was no end of Murdering on both sides. But _Vela_ clashing with his Councellors, because they would not consent that he should ruine _Los Reyos_, resolv’d to do it without them; and to that end to remove the Emperor’s Seal, Staple of Trade, and Courts Judicature to _Truxillo_, and to spoil the Countrey all about; which as he was about to put in Execution, they privately got Captain _Martin Robles_, and _Vela_’s Lifeguard, consisting of a hundred Men, on their side, whilest the common People mutinying broke into the Palace, took _Vela_ and carried him to the chief Church in _Los Reyos_, where the four Councellors were assembled, who order’d that the Prisoner should be Shipt and sent away to _Spain_, when _Alvares Cueto_ lying in the Harbor with ten Sail, threatned to fall upon the Inhabitants if they would not release the Vice-Roy: whereupon the Councellors well provided with Guns, rais’d several Batteries against his Ships, so that _Cueto_ finding himself too weak, set four of his Vessels on fire, and Sail’d with the rest to the Haven _Guavara_; where being set upon by _Diego Garzias_, he was forc’d to deliver the remaining part of his Fleet up to the Councellors, who sent _Vela_ away with the same, under the Command of _Didaco Alvaradez_. But _Pizarro_, who till this time had pretended that he sought nothing else but _Vela_’s Departure, march’d close to the Walls of _Los Reyos_ with twelve hundred Men, Hang’d three Citizens upon a Tree, requir’d the Councellors to grant him Letters Patents, by which he might be acknowledg’d for the Supream Governor of _Peru_, which if they refus’d, he threatned to put all that were in the City to the Sword; and upon Consultation it was judg’d convenient to grant his Demands, the rather, because they had not above fifty fighting Men in the City. Mean while _Didaco Alvaradez_ making an Agreement with the Vice-Roy, they return’d back with their Ships, and Landed in the Haven Mouth of the River _Tumbez_, rais’d what Forces they could possibly thereabouts, but were forc’d to retire from thence to _Quito_, (at the same time that the Councellor _Tejada_, being sent by _Pizarro_ to the Emperor, came to an Anchor there) where they were courteously Entertain’d; as also in _St. Michael_, where they got daily more and more Assistants; of which _Pizarro_ being inform’d, went thither with five hundred Men, and forcing the Vice-Roy to flye from thence, pursu’d him above thirty Leagues, Hanging up all those whom he could take of his Party. After many Rencounters and Hardships suffer’d by both Parties, _Pizarro_ exceedingly wearied, return’d to _Quito_, where he minded nothing but all manner of Debaucheries, not in the least regarding the Vice-Roy’s Designs, which it concern’d him to have narrowly look’d into, for he having got five hundred Men on his side, resolv’d to venture a Battel. It was towards Evening when the two Parties had sight of one another: _Pizarro_ having not onely more Men, but also better Exercis’d in Arms than the Vice-Roy, who being sensible thereof, went silently about Midnight from his Station along a narrow by Path, so to fall behind upon the Rere of the Enemy, who mistrusted nothing, by reason the Vice-Roy’s Dogs kept a continual Barking in his old Station, and the _Peruvian_ Sentinels were heard calling to one another, and making great Fires all the Night long; but because the Way was over-grown, and farther about than it was suppos’d, the Vice-Roy finding the Night too far spent, went back to _Quito_, out of which he Sallied as soon as he had sight of _Pizarro_’s Forces; against whom, being clad in a white Riding Coat, through the Slits of which appear’d a Cloth of Tissue Doublet, he came Riding on a Bay Gelding in the Head of his Party; with which breaking in amongst the Enemies Ranks, he made a considerable slaughter amongst them, till _Hernand Tores_ coming near him, gave him a Blow on the Head with a Battel-Ax, that fell’d him to the Ground, which the Lawyer _Carvayales_ seeing, ran immediately, out of desire to revenge his Brother’s Death, whom the Vice-Roy had murder’d, and chopp’d off his Head. Thus _Pizarro_ being absolute Master of the Field, began to shew his tyranny upon the Prisoners, some he took away by Poyson, others he Executed with the Sword and Halter, others he banish’d to the remote Countrey _Chili_, and spent his time in all manner of Vice in _Quito_; where, amongst other leud Actions, making Love to another Man’s Wife, he hir’d one _Vincent Paul_ to murder her Husband, which said _Vincent_ was afterwards Hang’d at _Valladolid_ in _Spain_. The Adulteress also was afterwards Got with Child by her own Father, and both of them put to death for Incest and murdering of their Child. _Pizarro_ being receiv’d as King in _Los Reyos_, grew every day more proud than other, insomuch that his Friends themselves began to hate and envy him, and wanted onely a convenient opportunity to rid themselves of this high-minded Tyrant. A strange Accident, among others, had done him great hurt, had it not been timely discover’d, _viz._ _Joan de la Torre_, a Soldier formerly belonging to the Vice-Roy, found accidentally a Grave in the Valley _Hica_ (which by the _Peruvians_ had been worshipp’d above two Ages before) and in it so much Offer’d Gold and Silver as amounted to above eighty thousand Crowns in Gold, besides many Emeraulds and _Turcoises_, all which Treasure he was puzled how to carry away and possess securely, partly fearing the Emperor’s Displeasure, if he should arrive thus rich in _Spain_, the rather because he had sided with _Pizarro_, and also knowing it was impossible to convey it on Ship-board without one or others knowledge; at last, after many Contrivances, he judg’d it convenient to put the Money in a small Vessel, and Sail with the same to _Nicaragua_, there to raise Men to oppose _Pizarro_ in those Parts, that so he might re-gain the Emperor’s Favor. This Undertaking seem’d to be threatned by many Dangers, he not having a sufficient Spirit to Command, or at least Experience to officiate the Place of a Captain. In the mean time _Vela Nunnez_, Brother to the slain Vice-Roy, taken in the Battel at _Quito_, had so much priviledge allow’d him from _Pizarro_, that he went a Hunting, and other such Exercises, distant from the Camp, who meeting with _La Torre_, took him in his arms, and embrac’d him with great joy, which so wrought upon _La Torre_, that he discover’d the Secret of his discover’d Treasure, took an Oath of him that he would be faithful to him, and take Revenge of _Pizarro_ for all the Injuries receiv’d from him; but before, according to their Agreement, they could set Sail from thence, their Plot being discover’d, both _Nunnez_ and _Torre_ were Executed, and their Riches fell into the Hands of _Pizarro_.

[Sidenote: _Peter Gasca_ sent to settle Affairs in _Peru_.]

Whilest the _Peruvian_ Affairs were in this confusion and disorder, _Peter Gasca_, impower’d by the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, arriving there, endeavor’d to settle all things in Peace and Quiet, and sent by _Peter Hernandes_, besides the Emperor’s Letter, another which he writ himself to _Pizarro_, the Contents of which were to this purpose:

[Sidenote: _Gasca_’s Letter to _Pizarro_.]

_The_ Peruvian _Soyl hath drunk up the_ Spanish _Blood long enough,
and the ruin’d Realm gapes for Rest: The Emperor proffers Pardon for
all past Crimes, Repeals the new Laws which the Vice-Roy_ Vela,
_during his Government, enjoyn’d the_ Spaniards _to observe. If_
Pizarro _aims at the general Welfare, he may easily see that Arms
must first be laid aside, which he now depends on in vain, all his
Associates being ready to forsake him, because no Soldier can take
up Arms against the Emperor, without being guilty of high Treason_.

[Sidenote: _Pizarro_’s Designs against him.]

[Sidenote: His Party generally fall off to _Gasca_.]

[Sidenote: _Cusco_ taken by _Centeno_.]

_Pizarro_ confounded with this Letter, call’d a Council of War, who differ’d very much from one another in their Votes, some judging that it would be best privately to destroy _Gasca_, others were for an open Engagement, but most thought of another way, _viz._ to get his Person into their custody, and keep him under a strong Guard on the Island _Puna_, under pretence that the _Peruvian_ Princes were sent for to come and acknowledge him as supream Governor, which because the Cities lay so remote one from another, could not be done in less than two years. Mean while an Embassy was to be sent to the Court at _Madrid_, which should enjoyn _Gasca_ to remain in _Panama_, and not offer to come to _Peru_ till such time as the Emperor commanded the same a second time at the return of the Agents. But _Hieronimus Loaisa_, chief Bishop of _Los Reyos_, _Thomas Martin_, Provincial of the _Dominicans_, _Gomes Solis_, _Pizarro_’s Steward, _Laurence Aldana_, who were design’d for this Embassy to the Emperor _Charles_, never went their Journey, but staid in _Panama_ with _Gasca_, who had also gain’d to his Party _Peter Alfonso Ainoiosa_, who Commanded _Pizarro_’s Fleet: _Aldana_ likewise inform’d him of all _Pizarro_’s private Councels; whereupon _Gasca_ sent privately for Aid to _Mexico_, _Guatimala_, _Nicaragua_, and _St. Domingo_, and dispatch’d four Ships with three hundred Men, Commanded by _Aldana_, from the Haven _Panama_, with Order to Land about Midnight against the City _Los Reyos_, and so fall unawares on _Pizarro_. _Aldana_ accordingly falling into the Bay of _Malabrige_, was reliev’d and supply’d with Provisions by _Diego Mora_, Governor of _Truxillo_: On the other side, the Field-Marshal _Carvayales_ being sent for by _Pizarro_, made a pompous Entrance, with the firing of Guns and Bonfires, into _Los Reyos_, where all Persons that seem’d to have the least inclination for _Gasca_, were either stabb’d or poyson’d. In the room of _Mora_, _Pizarro_ sent the Lawyer _Garcias Leon_ to be Governor of _Truxillo_, but he being taken by _Aldana_’s Fleet, joyn’d with _Gasca_; and thus all things began to conspire the ruine of _Pizarro_, yet he despair’d not, but being inform’d of the approach of the Ships, caus’d the Drums to be beaten in _Los Reyos_, forc’d every one that was able to bear Arms, on pain of death to serve him, made several experienc’d Soldiers, Commanders over his Horse and Foot, to whom he gave as much Money as they requir’d, to maintain those whom they had rais’d, and who were to be rais’d, by which means he got a thousand Men in Arms; to which number, according to an Order sent to _Cusco_, _Plata_, _Arequipa_, _Lima_, _Guanuco_, and other neighboring Places, new Forces were expected to joyn; but _Savedra_, Governor of _Guanuco_, deserting the City, left _Pizarro_ and joyn’d with _Mora_, who secur’d the Province of _Caxamalca_ for _Gasca_. Thus _Pizarro_ began to be daily more and more forsaken. Since the destruction of the Vice-Roy _Vela_, Captain _Diego Centeni_ had hid himself out of fear of _Pizarro_ a whole year, in a Cave under Ground, but now inform’d of _Gasca_’s Arrival, came forth, and getting forty Men and some Horses together, which also belong’d formerly to the Vice-Roy, resolv’d, though meanly Arm’d, to go upon a bold Design, _viz._ to take the City _Cusco_; of which _Antonio de Robles_, a Man hated and despis’d for his mean Extract and little Wit, had the chief Command, there being therein a Garrison of five hundred Soldiers, besides the Citizens, who were likewise in Arms: Being inform’d of _Centeno_’s approach, he sent out _Francisco Aguierre_ as a Spye to discover the Enemy; but he joyning with _Centeno_, advis’d him to march along a By-way, and towards Night to draw up about _Cusco_, which accordingly he did, and forcing open the Gates, rush’d in with his Horse against the Enemy, who were drawn up in the Market-place, and breaking through their Ranks trampled whole Companies under foot; after which he fell in upon _Robles_, who having forgotten to give his Men the _Word_, caus’d a great distraction; for the Men blinded by the darkness of the Night, knew not Friend from Foe, insomuch that _Robles_’s Party did one another more mischief than _Centeno_ did; who being thus become Master of the City, caus’d _Robles_ to be Beheaded the next day, and distributed a hundred thousand _Ducats_ amongst his Soldiers, and then march’d with a hundred Men to the City _Plata_, to bring _Mendoza_, Governor of the same, under the Emperor’s subjection; in which his Design he likewise prov’d successful, being supply’d with a hundred and thirty Foot, which _Lucas Martin_, had fetch’d from _Arequipa_ for the Service of _Pizarro_, whom since he had deserted and joyn’d with _Gasca_’s Party. Mean while the Fleet under the Command of _Aldana_ arriv’d in the Haven before _Los Reyos_, to the great terror and amazement of the whole City; from whence _Pizarro_ marching, Encamp’d himself with five hundred and fifty Men, so to prevent their Landing, swearing that he would spare none whoe’re fell into his Hands, and sent Order to _Peter Martin_, whom he had left in the City, immediately to Hang up those which would not follow the Army, or who return’d from thence home; to which purpose _Martin_ went from place to place with an Executioner, and thinking him not quick enough in his Work, stabb’d many Citizens himself: And strict Order was given by _Pizarro_ that all Runaways should be punish’d with Death; notwithstanding all which many of his nearest Friends daily forsook him, taking advantage of the darkness of the Night; nay, the Soldiers themselves would at Noon-day ride away from him, crying aloud, _Long live the Emperor, and let the Tyrant_ Pizarro _die_: Wherefore he judg’d it most convenient to remove to the Countrey _Nasca_: During his Journey thither, whole Troops left him, insomuch that he scarce kept a hundred and fifty Men, and those he fear’d every Minute would fall upon him and Murder him.

[Sidenote: _Los Reyos_ declares for the Emperor.]

[Sidenote: _Pizarro_ utterly defeated, surrenders himself into _Gasca_’s
Power.]

[Sidenote: _Carvayales_ and _Pizarro_ both put to death by _Gasca_.]

With _Pizarro_’s departure, the whole Scene of Affairs was chang’d in _Los Reyos_; for there the Imperial Standard was erected, the City Cryer read the Letters of Pardon which _Gasca_ had brought with him from _Spain_ in the corner of every Street. _Juan Palimino_ Landing with fifty Men, receiv’d all those that had deserted _Pizarro_, whilest _Gasca_ set Sail from _Panama_ with five hundred Men, with whom Landing at _Truxillo_, he Encamp’d himself in the Valley _Xauxa_, whither great multitudes flock’d from all places out of malice to _Pizarro_, who in a short time had destroy’d above five hundred Gentlemen. But _Pizarro_ having quitted _Los Reyos_, he possess’d the City _Arequipa_, which he found quite desolate, but meeting afterwards with the Forces Commanded by _Juan Acosta_, of which one half were also run away, joyn’d with them, and march’d against _Centeno_, who lay along the Lake _Titicaca_, with whom he Engag’d in the Plain _Guarina_: _Ludovico Ribera_ Landing, _Centeno_’s Party fir’d their Guns before the _Pizarrians_ were within shot of him, of which _Carvayales_ making speedy use, drew up his Pieces close before the Enemy, and made an exceeding slaughter amongst them, killing above a hundred and fifty Men in the first Onset; the Horse amaz’d at the sudden destruction of the Foot, fled, leaving the remaining Foot-Soldiers open to the Enemy, who was gotten behind them with his Musquetteers, and with his Horse before, whilest six _Peruvians_ carried away _Centeno_ out of the Fight, he lying sick on a Chair. _Pizarro_ thus become Victor, kill’d all he met with; of which _Gasca_ being inform’d, resolving upon a private and sudden Revenge, caus’d all Necessaries for War to be made ready, and march’d with a thousand and nine hundred Men out of the Valley of _Xauxa_ to _Cusco_, where by the Way he was supply’d with the Forces, which the experienc’d Colonel _Peter Valdivia_ had brought from _Chili_; with which coming to _Andagua_, he took up his Quarters there for some time, because the mild Winter had with continual Rains made the Ways so dirty, that there was no travelling, and had rotted their Tents and _Maiz_, and also occasion’d the Bloody-flux amongst the Soldiers. In _March_, _Gasca_ broke up with his Camp to cross the River _Apurima_, which he found very troublesom, because _Pizarro_ had broke down all the Bridges: But _Gasca_ caus’d Wood and other Materials to be carried to several places, that the Enemy should not certainly know his Intentions, and at last march’d over deep snowy Mountains to _Cotabamba_, where suddenly he made a Bridge, over which march’d four hundred Foot, but the Horse suffer’d most damage; for sixty Horses loaden with Arms going to wade over, were carried down by the Stream against sharp Rocks, by which they were desperately gor’d in their sides, and many of them kill’d outright. _Pizarro_ inform’d of the Enemies whole Proceedings by his Spyes, sent _Acosta_ thither with two hundred Musquetteers, to fall upon those that were come over, whom he finding too many, durst not venture to Engage with them. Mean while _Gasca_’s whole Army getting over on the other side of the River _Apurima_, march’d up a high Hill, whilest _Pizarro_ Encamp’d himself five Leagues from _Cusco_, in a Plain call’d _Saguisagrana_, the Entrance into his Camp being fortifi’d with six Field-Pieces, each side by a River and several Mountains, and the Rere by a deep dry Moat: _Gasca_ stood upon a Hill and view’d the Enemy’s whole Forces lying in the Valley, and being oppress’d with excessive Heat, whilest his Men were so exceedingly pinch’d with Cold in the Night, that they were scarce able to hold their Arms, according to the strange property of the _Peruvian_ Climate; for the tops of Hills generally Freeze, whilest the Valleys about a League from thence are parch’d with Heat: At Break-of-day _Gasca_ descended the Hill; his Horse being divided into two Wings, were Commanded, the left by _Juan Savedra_, and the right by _Balthazar Castro_; _Mendoza_ led some Dragoons, _Valdivia_ guarded the Guns, and _Gasca_ himself march’d in the Front of the Musquetteers. On the other side, _Pizarro_ plac’d the _Peruvians_ on his right Wing, _Cepeda_ and _Acosta_ Commanded the Horse, _Carvayales_ and _La Torre_ the Foot, _Sebastian Vergara_ and _Peter Soria_ guarded the Field-Pieces: But the Battel was scarce begun, when _Cepedo_ and a great part of the Horse deserting _Pizarro_ went to joyn with _Gasca_, and immediately after the right Wing of the Musquetteers; at the same time _Centeno_ and _Mendoza_ fir’d amongst _Pizarro_’s main Body, of which some ran away to _Cusco_, others with their Colours to _Gasca_’s Army. _Pizarro_ seeing himself thus forsaken, cry’d out, _Since all are fled to the Imperial Standard, I will also betake my self thither, where perhaps I may find Mercy_: Whereupon _Acosta_ answer’d, _Let us rather fall in amongst the thickest of the Enemy, and die valiantly_: To which _Pizarro_ reply’d, _No, now I have lost Honor and Goods, I must take care for my Soul, that that may not be lost also_; which said, he lighted from his Horse, Caparison’d in Silver, and deliver’d himself and his Sword into the Hands of the Serjeant _Villavicenzo_, who found him Habited in curious Armor, a Golden Helmet with a stately Plume of Feathers, and a Corslet incircl’d with Emeraulds about his Neck: _Gasca_ seeing him brought before him in this manner, said thus unto him, _Have you not order’d your Business well, to waste so much of the Emperor’s Treasure, and shed so much Blood, and all to confirm your self in your unlawful Usurpation of_ Peru? To which _Pizarro_ answer’d, saying, _I have spent my own Estate in the Service of the_ Spanish _Crown, and might lawfully take upon me the Government of_ Peru, _having with the loss of my Brother’s Life, and the hazard of my own, discover’d the same_. _Carvayales_ escaping out of the Fight, had hid himself in a Thicket of Canes, but being discover’d by his own People, was by them brought before _Gasca_, who the next day after the Battel caus’d him to be Quarter’d alive, and _Pizarro_’s Head to be cut off in Prison; the other Prisoners were most of them kill’d in cold Blood. _Gasca_ thus become absolute Master of _Peru_, found an incredible Treasure left by _Pizarro_, of which he gave to every common Soldier above six thousand _Ducats_; and with this his victorious Army march’d to _Cusco_, where he employ’d his Executioners afresh, in Hanging, Drawing, and the like; some that were stigmatiz’d and condemn’d to the Galleys, accounted themselves happy that they had escap’d so. _Gasca_, though Victor, perceiv’d no small Troubles to threaten him, having twenty five hundred Men in Arms, of which every one for their faithful Service judg’d that they deserv’d some Office or other, there being then above a hundred and fifty to dispose of, _Pizarro_ having Executed the chiefest Officers, and those that bore any Command under him being either fled or kill’d in the last Fight: but the small number of Officers that were wanting, was not to be compar’d to all those that gap’d for Commissions. The Revenues, which yearly amounted to eleven hundred thousand _Ducats_, went most of it away amongst the Officers, the common Soldiers getting onely a small Snip out of it; wherefore many began to murmur, and were upon the point of Mutinying, if _Cianca_, the Judge of criminal Causes, taking the chief of them, had not punish’d them in such a manner, that all the rest being terrifi’d, gave over their Complaints. After _Gasca_ had spent above nine hundred thousand _Ducats_ in the War against _Pizarro_; all which Money he took up upon Interest, which, after having setled the Kingdom in Quietness, he paid for the most part with the Goods taken from the Rebels. Next he made a Law concerning the _Peruvians_ paying of Tribute, which before the _Spaniards_ forc’d from them whensoe’re and howsoe’re they pleas’d, with the greatest Tortures imaginable.

[Sidenote: _Peru_ Governed by Vice-Roys.]

_Gasca_ having again erected in _Los Reyos_ the high Court of Judicature, in which sat the Imperial Judges, return’d home with an unvaluable Mass of Treasure for _Charles_ the Fifth, and left the _Peruvian_ Government to the Judge _Cianca_; since which time _Peru_ hath been Govern’d by Vice-Roys, the first whereof, who succeeded _Cianca_, was _Antonio Mendoza_, and after him successively _Andreas Hurtado Mendoza_, _Diego Valasco_, _Lopez Garcias de Castro_, _Francisco de Toledo_, _Martin Enriques_, _Garcias Mendoza_, _Ludovico Velasco_, and _Juan Pacheco_, under whom the _Peruvian_ Kingdom hath enjoy’d Peace and Quiet, to the considerable enriching of the _Spanish_ Inhabitants.

Thus much of the antient Transactions in _Peru_, it will now be requisite to give you a brief Account of the several Provinces in this mighty Kingdom.

[Sidenote: Division of _Peru_.]

The Countrey is generally divided into three _Juridicial Resorts_, as they call them, or Courts of Appeal, which are _Quito_, _Lima_, and _Charcas_; but the particular Provinces, as they are commonly observ’d by Geographers, are said to be six, _viz._ 1. _Quito._ 2. _Los Quixos._ 3. _Lima._ 4. _Cusco._ 5. _Charcas._ and 6. _Collao._

SECT. II.
Quito.

[Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Quito_.]

The first Province of _Peru_ towards the North is _Quito_, or the new Kingdom of _Granada_, with which on that side it is bounded, having on the West, _Mare del Zur_; on the South, _Lima_; and on the East, _Los Quixos_. It lieth in a manner right under the _Line_, and is said to be seventy two Leagues in length, and in some places about twenty five in breadth.

The Winter begins here in _October_, and continues till _March_, in which fall mighty Showers, and on the Mountains abundance of Snow, but all the Summer long the Sun is seldom darkned with a Cloud. Many of the Inhabitants die of a Giddiness in the Head about the beginning and end of Summer. The _POX_ also destroys many of the Natives; with which Disease they are often born, and give it to the _Spaniards_, who are not able to abstain from the _Indian_ Women; they use _Sassaparilla_ and the Wood _Guaiacum_ to cure themselves with.

Here grow also many poysonous Herbs, which the _Peruvians_ make use of to poyson one another.

[Sidenote: The Fruit _Quaba_.]

In the farthest parts of _Quito_ grows the salt and cooling Fruit _Quaba_, two Handfuls long, cover’d with a grey Rind, and within full of white Pulp and hard Kernels.

[Sidenote: The Tree _Guaiaba_.]

The Tree _Guaiaba_ hath a pale smooth Bark, thick Boughs, hard and glittering Leaves, Flowers consisting of five Leaves, not unlike a Peacock’s Plume, long Apples, woolly without, and within full of a pale red Pulp and eatable Stones; the Root, which spreads it self very much, is sweet, and when boyl’d cures the Bloody-flux. This Tree grows in most places, especially in low Grounds, the more because the Kernels which the Birds picking out let fall on the Ground, spring up in new Trees.

The _Spanish_ Fruits, as Peaches, Cittrons, Figs, Pomegranates, Pears, Quinces, and Oranges, grow also here in great abundance, but when ripe are subject to rot.

Moreover, the Fields abound with Wheat, Barley, and _Maiz_; the Pastures afford plenty of Grass for Oxen, Horses and Sheep, which bring forth Lambs twice in fourteen Moneths.

The Ocean and Rivers store of Fish; the Stream _Barbara_ us’d formerly to produce Gold also.

In moist Grounds the Inhabitants find abundance of Salt-petre, the best that is for the making of Gun-powder.

[Sidenote: The Inns _Tambos_.]

For the Accommodation of Travellers, Inns call’d _Tambos_, are built near the High-ways, exactly five Leagues distant one from another, where all sorts of Provisions are sold at a set Price.

[Sidenote: The Nature of the People.]

The Natives antiently went Cloth’d in a Frock without Sleeves, as wide on the top as at the bottom, and pleited their long Hair. They are strong, well proportion’d in Body, and subtile enough to learn any Art, but treacherous, inconstant, and inclin’d to Drunkenness: They were very hard also to be brought to receive the _Roman_ Religion, so that most of them would not suffer themselves to be Baptiz’d till they lay a dying: They also drove a great Trade in Cotton, Wooll, and Cloth.

Between _Pasto_ and _Quito_ are several Villages, and the famous High-way, by the _Ingas_ cut through the Wildernesses and Mountains, the Wall of an old Castle, and the wonderful Stone-Bridge _Lumichaca_, which Nature hath made over the swift River _Guaca_; it consists of a hard Cliff, at the Foot whereof is a great Arch, through which the Water runs with exceeding force.

This Tract of Land produces _Maiz_, and abundance of _Mortuanos_, a Fruit resembling Damask Prunes, which eaten in excess cause Drunkenness and Faintness.

The Lake _Yaguarcocha_, signifying _Bloody-Water_, because the Inga _Guayanacava_ kill’d and drown’d twenty thousand there.

[Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.]

The chief Towns and Places of Note are, 1. _Caranguez_, antiently a Royal City, where stood a sumptuous and stately Palace of the Kings of _Peru_, now almost deserted. The Palace, built of Stone in a little Plain, without either Mortar or Iron-work, manifests its former glory by its Ruines.

2. The Royal Castle of _Atabalo_, or _Ottavallis_, in the building of which the _Ingas_ spar’d no Cost nor Charges; and indeed it is a Structure no way inferior to any of the antient _Roman_ Edifices. Between this Castle and _Cochequi_, a stately House, lies a cold snowy Mountain. Moreover, the _Spaniards_ have several Habitations along the Way to _Quito_, and especially in the Valley _Annaquito_, where the Vice-Roy _Vela_ lost the Battel fought against _Gonsalvo Pizarro_.

3. _Quito_, commonly call’d _St. Francisco de Quito_. There stood formerly here certain Palaces, built by the _Ingas_, but the City was re-built by the _Spaniards_ at the Foot of a certain Ridge of Mountains, which it hath on the North and North-West side of it, and are said by _Laet_, to cross the whole Countrey of _Peru_ quite over from the South to the North Sea: It was soon after the Building inhabited by five hundred Families of _Spaniards_ at least, besides Natives, and well fortifi’d, and might be thought a Town very well seated in all respects, but for the neighborhood of a Vulcan, which at times annoyeth it very much, as namely in the Year 1560. when it vomited out such abundance of flaming Cinders and other sulphureous Matter, that had it not been for a Shower of Rain unexpectedly falling, would have much damnifi’d, if not destroy’d the Place. The Natives about _Quito_ are more Moraliz’d than other _Peruvians_. The Valleys which are warm’d by the Sun produce all manner of Fruit-Trees and large Vineyards; and the Root _Papas_, not unlike Apples. The _Quimla_, which is of a Mans heighth, hath little Seeds, of which a pleasant Liquor is boyl’d. From _Quito_ the High-way leads to _Cusco_, along which at every four Leagues distance stands a brave Palace; and from _Cusco_ to _Chili_, being in all above a thousand Leagues long. The City, built on a sandy Soyl, is divided in the middle by a Moat, over which lead several Bridges: the Streets are large and streight, and full of handsom Houses, and at the ends of the four chief Streets four Market-places. Besides the Cathedral, are two other Churches, Dedicated to the Saints _Sebastian_ and _Blasius_. The Cloysters of the _Franciscans_ and _Dominicans_ are also no small Ornament to the City. Besides other stately Structures, are the Residences of the Receivers of the Kings Revenues, to which the _Peruvians_ that live about the City, being computed no less than fifty thousand in number, pay Tribute; and to keep them in subjection, the City _Quito_ is always well stor’d with all manner of Ammunition and Instruments of War. The chiefest Trade here consists in Sheep, Goats, and other Cattel, Cotton-Clothes, Cloth, Flax, Hats, Cordage, Sugar and Salt; which Salt, being grey and bitter, springs out of a Fountain in the Countrey _Mira_. The Oyl, Wine, and Drugs which are us’d here, are fetch’d from the South Sea up the River _Ambato_, and from thence with Carts into the City.

4. _Thomebamba_, famous for a Royal Palace, built there by some of the _Ingas_; It lies Southward from _Quito_ in the Province of _Canares_, where two Rivers commix their Waters, near a Plain abounding with Venison. There yet remain considerable Ruines of this Palace, in which one may discern the vast Dimensions of divers Rooms, in some of which Arms were kept, and in others Provisions and Clothes; of which kind of Buildings or Magazines the _Ingas_ had erected above a thousand in _Peru_, especially along the High-way, that they might have their Ammunition ready in all places if need should require. On the left side of _Thomebamba_ appear’d the famous Temple of the Sun, whose Gates were not onely curiously Painted, but also Inlay’d with Emeraulds. Both the Palace and Temple, adorn’d with Gold and costly Images of great Touch-stone and Jasper, contain’d within their Walls an unvaluable Treasure. These magnificent Structures are at this day fall’n quite to decay. The People of this Countrey, who wear long Hair, pleited on the top of their Heads like a Coronet, go Cloth’d in Cotton Coats and Buskins of Hair-cloth. The Women, indifferent fair, and great admirers of the _Spaniards_, Plough, Sowe, and gather in the Harvest, whilest the Men stay at home, Spinning, Weaving, and doing of other Female-Offices. _Anno 1544._ they discover’d Mines here, which produc’d as much Gold as Earth.

5. _Tacunga_, where was formerly another stately Palace, about fifteen Leagues from _Cusco_, not far from the Mountain which some years since vomited Ashes and Stones into the adjacent Fields. Hereabouts was formerly a Cloyster, inhabited by the Nuns call’d _Namaconas_, the Ruines whereof are yet to be seen, with several Houses of Stone, but cover’d with Thatch. The Natives in this Place are of a brown Complexion, and of a very affable Nature.

6. _Mulambato_; 7. _Mocha_; 8. _Rhiobamba_, three small Villages, but each of them credited with a stately Palace. Opposite to _Rhiobamba_ lies the Province _Chumbo_, from which a troublesom Way leads to _Guaynacapa_ over the River _Chongo_.

9. _St. Jago de Puerto Viejo_, giving Denomination to the Territory about it, which produces abundance of _Potatoe_ Roots, _Maiz_, _Juca_, three sorts of _Guayavas_, _Cerezillas_, and the Tree _Tunas_, which bears wild Figs. The _Spanish_ Fruits grow here likewise in great plenty. The fore-mention’d Beasts like Hogs, whose Navels grow on their Backs, are also very common here. The Woods abound with Deer and all sorts of Fowls, amongst which one resembling a Goose, and call’d _Xuta_; and another nam’d _Maca_, somewhat lesser than a Cock, and which feeding about the House, may be reckon’d amongst the Poultrey of this Countrey. The Sea along the Coast affords them abundance of _Bonito_’s, which eaten in some Seasons cause Agues. The People along the Sea-Coast are generally troubled with Pimples and Sores in their Faces, especially on their Foreheads and Noses, few of them living long, by reason of the unhealthfulness of the Place through excessive Moisture, for the Rain continues eight Moneths together.

10. _Manta_, lying upon the Southern Ocean, the chief of the Villages, formerly possess’d by the _Caranes_, betwixt the Promontory _Passao_ and the River _Dable_. These People are said to this day to carve and cut their Faces from their Ears to their Chins; about their Necks and Arms they wear Chains of Gold and little red Corals, call’d _Chaquina_, highly esteem’d by the _Peruvians_. This Town was formerly famous for a great Emerauld, which was religiously worshipp’d there.

11. _Guayaquil_, otherwise call’d _Culata_, built at a deep Inlet of the Sea, near the River _Anebato_, which with great swiftness falls down from the Mountains _Quito_, is surrounded with a fertile Soyl; and in the hollow Trees is found plenty of Honey. The Water of the fore-mention’d River, being of great vertue in curing the _Morbus Gallicus_, hath great resort of People from all places; who likewise gather the _Sarsaparilla_ that grows along the Banks. The Bridge which the Inga _Guaynacava_ began to lay cross this River, is also very remarkable, but he dying, it was left unfinish’d. The _Guancabilcas_ were heretofore under the Jurisdiction of this City _Guayaquil_.

12. _Castro_, so call’d from a strong Fort built there by a _Spanish_ Captain, and situate in the Valley _Vili_, not far from _Guayaquil_.

13. The City _Loxa_, built in the Countrey of the _Paltas_, a People that went naked, between two Arms of the River _Catamayo_ under a wholsom Climate, near the High-way that leads to _Cusco_ in the Valley _Curibamba_, where no poysonous Beast was ever found. The Soil bears abundance of Oaks, Hazles, Ash, Willow, and Cedar-Trees; _Maiz_, Barley, and Wheat. Not far from the City springs a hot and sulphurous Fountain, which cures all sorts of Sores and Wounds. The Countrey hereabouts is likewise stor’d with Fowls, Venison, Cattel, and Fish. Moreover, the City receives no small lustre from two _Dominican_, and one _Franciscan_ Cloyster. Eastward from which lie desolate Mountains, whose tops are continually cover’d with Snow. Not far from hence were formerly two noble Palaces, _Piedras_ and _Tamboblanco_, besides several Villages.

14. _Cuenca_, wherein are also large Structures for the Monks and Priests: The Countrey about the same hath rich Mines of Gold, Silver, Quicksilver, Copper, Iron, and Sulphur.

15. _Zamora_, Eastward from the cold Mountains _Andes_, built in a Marshy Soyl, where the Inhabitants are never visited with Pestilential Distempers, and use no other Physick for such Sicknesses as they are troubled with, than Tobacco, and the Herb _Aquacolla_. But there is a certain Nut that grows hereabouts, which occasions sudden death, if eaten raw, but being boyl’d, is a wholsom Food. The Mines afford great pieces of Gold, of which one weighing eighteen Pound, was presented to _Philip_ the Second, King of _Spain_. The briny Springs produce good Salt. Three Rivers falling from the Mountains, are noted for their Golden Sands, and also afford delicious Fish. The Bees being here void of Stings, furnish the Inhabitants with plenty of Honey. The Tygers and little Lyons devour many of the Sheep _Pacos_, Goats, Hogs, and other Cattel, and sometimes the Natives themselves. The City it self is neatly built with Woodden and Stone Houses, and adorn’d with a Church and _Dominican_ Cloyster, besides a stately Palace, the Residence for the King’s Receiver. The Natives about this Place are a stupid and barbarous People, which before the _Spaniards_ coming thither, would for a small trifle kill one another.

16. The City _Yaen_, situate in the Countrey _Chuiquimayo_; it is so call’d from a swift River, cross which the _Peruvian_ Women and Children swim, to the great amazement of the _Spaniards_. They paint their Bodies black with the Juice of the Root _Yaguas_, and feed for the most part on the stamp’d Plant _Yaca_. On the other side of the Mountain, which rises on the Banks of _Chuquimayo_, lies the Countrey _Perico_, fruitful and well inhabited, against which juts the Golden Countrey _Cherinos_. _Peru_ hath also several delightful Valleys, amongst which on the North the chiefest are the _Tumbez_, _Solana_, _Poechos_, and _Piura_, all of them very fertile, full of stately Buildings, and water’d by several Rivers.

17. _San Miguel_, the first City that was built by the _Spaniards_ in _Peru_, situate in a sandy and dry Soyl, being extraordinary dusty in Summer, and very slabby in the Winter, because the hard Ground cannot soak up the Rain. The _Ingas_ made a Way through this Valley fifteen Foot broad, between two Walls, and Planted Trees on each side.

[Sidenote: _Spilbergen_’s Attempt upon _Payta_.]

18. Westward from _Miguel_ appears _Payta_, near a convenient Haven in the South-Sea, which _Anno 1547._ was burnt by _Thomas Candish_; since which it had been re-built twenty eight years, when _Joris Spilbergen_, after a hard Engagement with the _Spanish_ Admiral _Rodrigo Mendoza_, arriving in the large Haven before _Payta_, sent eight Sail with three hundred Armed Men up to the City, where finding the Enemy Encamp’d along the Shore, he return’d without any effect; but two of his Frigats, the _Eolus_ and the _Morning-Star_, running close to _Payta_, fir’d whole Broad-sides at the same, whilest Captain _De Wit_ took a _Peruvian_ Fisher-man, who had been two Moneths out at Sea, and taken abundance of Fish. The Guns which the Ships fir’d upon the Town struck such a terror into the Citizens, that they fled with Bag and Baggage into the Mountains, and left the City for a Prize to _Spilbergen_, who setting fire on the same, in few hours burnt down two Churches, a _Dominican_ Cloyster, and several Alms-houses: But had not the Citizens been cowardly, they might easily have kept off the _Hollanders_; for the Vice-Roy _Ludovico Velasco_ inform’d of _Spilbergen_’s Arrival, had stor’d the Place with Ammunition and Men, whose Courage failing, prov’d successful for the _Hollanders_, who whilest they Rid here at an Anchor, took a very strange Bird on the Island _Lobos_, lying before _Payta_, being two Yards high and three thick, in its Bill, Wings, and Claws resembling an Eagle, and having a large Crest on its Head. Not long after _Donna Paula_ being Governess of _Payta_, a Lady famous in _Peru_ for her Beauty and obliging Nature, sent Cabbages, Oranges, Cittrons, and other Provisions to the _Hollanders_, and requested the Releasement of some of the _Spaniards_ taken in the Engagement against _Mendoza_, but could not obtain her Request from the uncourtly _Dutchmen_.

SECT. III.
Los Quixos.

[Sidenote: Description of _Los Quixos_.]

The Province of _Los Quixos_ lieth South, and to the South-East of _Quito_, being border’d more directly Eastward with a part of the Province of _Guiana_, call’d by some _El Dorada_, or _The Golden Countrey_; on the South it hath _Lima_ and _Cusco_.

[Sidenote: The _Canela_-Fruit.]

This Province is subdivided into several lesser Territories, _viz._ _Canela_, _Pacomores_, and _St. Juan de Salinas_. _Canela_ is so call’d, because it hath many great Woods, which produce the Fruit _Canela_ in great abundance, the Owners whereof were most inhumanely dealt with by the _Spaniards_; for _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ supposing to get store of Gold there, found nothing but Trees, bearing a Fruit like Olives, by the Natives call’d _Canela_, with which they us’d to drive a great Trade, being otherwise poor and simple People, living in Huts, which _Pizarro_ pulling down, caus’d the Inhabitants to be torn in pieces by his Dogs, because they could not furnish him with Gold, nor direct him where it was to be had.

[Sidenote: The _Granadilla_-Apple.]

Besides the _Canela_-Tree, this Countrey also produceth in great plenty the Tree which beareth the Apples _Granadilla_, exceeding good against burning Feavers; the Leaves are like Ivy, the Blossom resembling the Sun, and the long Leaves speckled with Red and White, open three hours after Sun-rising, and close again before the Evening, just as if Nature took care to preserve the beauty of the Flower.

[Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.]

In this part of the Province the chief are, 1. _Baeza_, otherwise call’d _Quixos_, built in the Year 1559. by _Ramires de Avila_, eighteen Leagues from _Cusco_.

2. _Archidona_, twenty Leagues to the South-East of _Baeza_. 3. _Avila._ 4. _Sevilla del Oro_, all of them _Spanish_ Colonies.

The Territories _Pacomores_ and _Yguansongo_, otherwise call’d _The Countrey of Juan de Salinas_, are said both to extend above a hundred Leagues in length, and little less in breadth. The Fields afford store of Pasture for Cattel, the Plough’d Lands produce Wheat and all sorts of wholsom Herbs; and in some places are also rich Gold-Mines.

The Governor _Layola_ built four Towns here, _viz._ 1. _Valladolid_; 2. _Loyola_; 3. _San Jago de los Montanas_; and 4. _Caruma_.

The Jesuit _Acosta_ relates, That not far from _Caruma_ he found great Stones, some of which were full of Golden Veins, but were hard to be cut from the Rock. Most of the Gold is found in the Sand of several Rivers, the chiefest whereof flow through _Quito_, _New Granada_, _Valdivia_ in _Chili_, and _Caravaya_ in _Peru_.

On the Point of _Quito_, the River _San Jago_ falls into the Southern Ocean; the Ground in the Mouth of the River being very uneven, for oftentimes the Ships are fast aground at the Stern, and on Head they have above eighty Fathom Water; yet nevertheless the Shoals are no ways dangerous.

South-West from _St. Jago_ lies the spacious Inlet _Mattheo_, and the Promontory _Francisco_, known by its Banks and high Grounds, which shew red and white at a great distance.

Not far from hence, exactly under the _Equinox_, appears _Cape Passao_, flat and low; between which and _Mattheo_, the great Rivers _Los Quiximes_ fall into the Sea.

Behind _Passao_ rises the high Mountain _Quaque_; and more Westerly the Bay _Caraques_ affords a secure Harbor for all manner of Vessels.

Next you come to the Town _Puerto Viejo_ before mention’d, lying behind the Island _Laurenso_.

Five Leagues off at Sea, before _Laurenzo_, lies the Island _Plata_, formerly famous for a _Peruvian_ Temple, in which the Natives Sacrifis’d Sheep, and sometimes Children, and painted the Figures of divers Persons with the Blood; to which they also Offer’d Jewels, Gold, Silver, Wooll, Cotton Shirts, and Cloaks. _Francisco Pizarro_ arriving here, got an invaluable Mass of Treasure; but at present it lying desolate, affords nothing but Brambles and wild Trees.

The next which come in view are the Havens _Callo_ and _Zalango_, where there are safe Harbors, good Wood and Water.

The Cape of _St. Helena_ makes also a secure Road on the North, and on its Shore hath a Spring, on the top of whose Waters swims a certain Gum, by the Natives call’d _Copey_, exceeding good to make Ships tight.

The River _Tumbez_ falls into a large Bay, which on its North-East Point near the Main Land, hath the Island _Puna_, ten Leagues in circumference: The Soyl whereof produces abundance of _Maiz_, _Fuca_, and other good Roots, besides great Woods full of fruitful Trees, and _Sarsaparilla_. The Inhabitants of a brown Complexion, and middle Stature, wear Cotton Cloaks, and Chains of _Chaquira_ and Precious Stones: They drive a great Trade, and formerly maintain’d Wars with the People inhabiting upon the River _Tumbez_; their great want is fresh Water in the Summer. _Thomas Candish_ Landing here _Anno 1587._ found a Ship hal’d ashore, and three Villages, in one of which stood a Palace belonging to a _Casique_, surrounded with Stone Galleries; and near it a large Store-house full of Tar-pots and Hemp to make Cables of: The Village consisted of two hundred Houses, and a fair Church with a Steeple, in which hung several Bells. The _Casique_ Married to a _Spanish_ Woman being fled with the Villagers, _Candish_ took many Oxen, fat Sheep, Pigeons and Ducks, the Bells, and what else was not convey’d aboard, with him, and, afterwards burnt the whole Town; but whilest he was busie in making havock, a thousand _Spaniards_, and a considerable number of _Peruvians_ fell upon the _English_ on such a sudden, that they kill’d some, and took others Prisoners.

Somewhat farther off at Sea appears the Isle _Clara_, where those of _Puna_ formerly buried their Dead.

The Inlet into which falls the River _Tumbez_, whose Shores are well inhabited, ends Westward at the Promontory _Blanco_; Southward from which lies the Isle _Lobos_, where there are several Springs full of the same Gum, or _Bitumen_, a little above mention’d.

Beyond the Point _Agua_ lie the two Isles _Lobos Marinos_, opposite to a low Coast; they are desolate, and barren of Grass, Trees, and all kind of Herbs, and destitute of fresh Water; but many Pelicans, Penguins, and other strange Birds.

The discovering of these Coasts belonging to the Jurisdiction of _Quito_, deserves a short Relation:

[Sidenote: _Bevalcazar_ overcoming _Ruminagua_, takes _Quito_.]

[Sidenote: He comes to an Agreement with _Alvarado_.]

[Sidenote: _Pizarro_ and his Army driven to great Straights.]

[Sidenote: _Orellana_ cross’d in his Designs, dies for grief.]

[Sidenote: The miserable Condition of _Pizarro_’s Men.]

[Sidenote: _Quito_ very much defac’d by siding with _Vela_ against
_Gonsalvo Pizarro_.]