Chapter V

ARRIVAL OF THE SPANIARDS AT THE CAPITAL--THEIR RECEPTION
BY MONTEZUMA--DETERMINED HOSTILITY OF GUATIMOZIN. 81

Singular relative position of the Spaniard and the
Aztec--The power and timidity of the one, and the danger
and boldness of the other--Speculation--Cortez
advancing--The Grand Causeway--The Fort of Xoloc--The
Emperor's retinue--Abject deference of his
lords--Magnificent palanquin--His personal appearance
and costume--The reception--Exchange of
presents--Montezuma retires--Cuitlahua escorts the
Spaniards to their quarters--Their admiration on seeing
the splendor of the city--Curiosity of the people--The
omens of that day--Their influence upon
Montezuma--Guatimozin's true devotion to his
country--His interview with the Princess--True
interpretation of the omens--Filial devotion versus
patriotism--The pledge--A new omen--The parrot turned
prophet--Karee and her prediction--Extreme sensitiveness
of the Princess.