AN ACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF AMERICA. (continued 4)

Strange Sacrifices.

The Victims that go to be Sacrific’d, they Worship with all Adoration, Bowing and Congying before them.

Strange Idol-Worship.

Their Zeal in this their Idol-Worship may appear from a strange Custom, observ’d by them when they enter their Temple, viz. they either draw Blood out of their Tongues, Lips, Ears, Breast, Knees, or Palm of their Hands, which they throw into the Air, supposing thereby to be pardon’d by their indulgent Gods.

Zempoal, a City.

In the City Zempoal, Cortez found five Slaves, who being kept close Prisoners, were to be Sacrific’d the next day; but he releasing them, did upon the importunate request of the Quines, or Priests, and promises of great ransoms, and their telling of him that the Zemez would spoil all their Seed and Plants that year, if they did not go on with these Offerings, restor’d the Prisoners again; who, though the enjoyments of all happinesses in the other World were promis’d them by their Priest, and great assurance given thereof; yet they were not forward, but return’d, unwilling to suffer, though by so gainful a Sacrifice.

Zemez wonderful Idols.

At the Zemez Feet hung abundance of Mens Bones bundled up together, and under them were Written the Names of their Enemies, whose Flesh had been either Sacrific’d or eaten.

Cortez his Exploits.

Twelve Leagues beyond Zempoal, Cortez built a new City near the River Grisalva, and call’d it Vera Crux, which Diego Velasques resented so ill, it being 83done without his knowledge, that he petition’d the Council of Cuba to give Sentence of Death against the Founder: But whilst Cortez expected an answer from the Embassadors (which were sent to the Spanish Court to give account of the necessity of building a City there) he travell’d eighty Leagues Westerly. The Zempoalensers accompanied him in great Troops, hoping by that means to shake off the yoke of the mighty King Montezuma, against whom they were then design’d. Cortez coming into the Territory of Sincuchimalar, was in the Name of Montezuma, by one of his Princes, courteously entertain’d in a great Village, scituate on a steep Mountain, without any Path or Way leading to it, but by two high Ladders. Sincuchimalar lies surrounded with Hills, whose tops seem to touch the Clouds. Coming down from the Village, they travell’d through a barren and cold Valley, where they suffer’d such great Inconveniences by want of Provisions and Water, and exceeding coldness of the Weather, that many of them perish’d. After that, they ascended a pleasant Hill, on whose summit stood a Chappel, with a handsom Steeple, and hedg’d about with great heaps of Wood, brought thither by the Inhabitants for the use of their Sacrifices. At the foot of this Mountain was a fruitful Valley water’d by a pleasant River, on whose Banks a certain Prince nam’d Cacataminus had a Palace, built of Stone, and containing many Rooms, and convenient Lodgings. Somewhat higher to the Land, appear’d more of the like Structures, which were all under Montezuma’s Jurisdiction; but the neighboring Countrey Tlaxcalla, whose Inhabitants were famous for their Valor, would never receive any Laws from Montezuma.

Remarkable War in Tlaxcalla.

Cortez no sooner set footing in this Countrey, but he was set upon by a thousand of the Inhabitants, who at the first Assault kill’d two of the Spanish Horse, yet after this bold Charge, the Assailants fled, and on the next day desir’d Peace; whereupon the Spaniards march’d quietly into the Countrey, when a confus’d Company, or Forlorn-Hope, making a horrible Noise, set upon them; but after a slight Skirmish, they fled to their Main Body, which immediately drawing up, being at least a hundred thousand, hemm’d in the handful of Spaniards, and so were ready to swallow them, leaving them no Angle to escape at. Thus invironed, they were assailed on every side, fighting till Sun-set, and had undoubtedly been utterly destroy’d, had not Cortez ply’d his six Pieces of Cannon, discharging continually Volley after Volley upon them; and though the Execution was very much, yet the Sound and report of their Ordinance was more terrible to them that were out of the reach of the Bullet, and made more to the gaining so great a Victory, Fear conquering more than Slaughter; so that by the Evening, despairing either of their Safety or better Fortune, the whole Army disbanding fled: But the pursuing Conquerors firing five of their Villages, remain’d Masters of the Field; yet they, though thus totally routed, taking fresh Courage (a wonderful thing!) reinforc’d them, and set upon the Spanish Camp, with no less than 150000 Fighting Men: Yet notwithstanding so vast an Army, Cortez so well order’d his small parcel of Men, and so valiantly led on upon all Advantages, that he in like manner defeated this, as they thought, Invincible Preparation. Thus flesh’d with so much Blood of the Natives, he raged every where, giving no Quarter where-ever he went.

Mean while Quesitangal, a neighboring Prince, having also raised an Army with which he design’d, being assisted by darkness, craftily to fall into the Spanish Quarters by Night, subtilly dissembling, sent Embassadors the day before, 84with several Presents, and Overtures of Peace, which indeed were onely Spies, to take notice where they might best break in upon them; which Cortez mistrusting, and soon being inform’d of the whole Design, he cut off the Spies Hands, so sending them back to Quesitangal with Defiance: Hereupon the Indians immediately setting forward, took advantage of the ensuing Night, and with great fury fell upon the Spaniards, who preacquainted with the Design, were in so good a posture to receive them, that not able to endure such hot Service, they quickly retreated, and utterly gave over the Enterprize: But Cortez as much encourag’d by these Victories, pursu’d them, and the same Night Storm’d Tlaxcalla, a City containing above twenty thousand Houses, which in few Hours he carried. This City was curiously built, of bak’d Stones, and a place of great Trade; insomuch that the Market-places swarm’d with Buyers and Sellers, bartering one with another all manner of Provisions, as Fish, Flesh, and Bread, also Plumes of Feathers, Pearls, imbroyder’d Tapestry, Chalk, Stones, Timber, and Herbs.

Twenty days Cortez staid here to refresh his Army, and then march’d to the neighboring City Chiurutical, with the Auxiliary Forces of the Tlaxcallans, to the number of above a hundred thousand; they told him, That the People of Chiurutical had barricado’d up their Streets, laid upon the tops of their Houses great heaps of Stones, that their upper Rooms were cramm’d with Archers, and all things made ready both for Offence and Defence; which Advertisement he not much hearkned to, because he was conducted into the City with all their State-Formalities of Singing and Tabering upon their Tamboes, and every where courteously entertain’d.

A Plot strangely discover’d.

Strange Martial Affairs.

Mean while Montezuma had rais’d a great Army, which were in their advance, not onely to the defence of his Border, but to surprize them while they staid in that City, the Townsmen having invited him thither to their rescue and his own defence, had not the Plot been accidentally discover’d by a Chirutecan Woman, who giving advice to one of her Friends that follow’d Cortez, that he should immediately make his escape, because that all the Strangers would be destroy’d within few Hours, who came and inform’d Cortez thereof; whereupon he desir’d all the Magistrates of the City to come and speak with him, who no sooner entred the Hall where he was, but his Men by Command immediately shot them to death, which terrible Rumor spreading, and alarm’d with the report of the Executing Musquets, the City was suddenly in an Uproar, gathering thither Arm’d from all Places, and began a sharp Conflict, which lasted five Hours; but then wearied out, and despairing of Success, loosing their Courage, they desir’d a Cessation, and at last concluded Peace with the Spaniards.

Now Mexico.

This News of his discover’d Intention, so startled Montezuma, that he suppos’d it better to desist, and procure the Favor of Cortez by Presents; wherefore he sent him 15000 Cotton Habits, trim’d up very richly, ten great Chargers of Gold, and some Vessels of Wine, desiring him for a while to forbear his Intentions of marching to Tenustitan his Chief City, and that he would in the mean while treat with him for an Accommodation. But Cortez, though he accepted of the Presents, yet nevertheless held his Resolution of marching on.

Wonderful Mountain Popocatepeque.

Resolution of two Spaniards.

Eight Leagues from Tenustitan he saw the double-spired Mountain Popocatepeque, so call’d from the Smoke which continually ascends from its top; for Popoca signifies A Smoke, and Tepeque, A Mountain. The Smoke rises upright, and 85with so much strength, that by the greatest Wind it deviates not one jot from mounting upwards in a direct Line, to whose forked Head ten Spaniards resolv’d to climb; but having got scarce half way up, they were forc’d to return, the Ashes lying knee-deep; yet at last two more resolute conquer’d all those Difficulties, and got to the top, where the mouth of the Cave, as they guessed, measur’d four Miles in Circumference: The shaking of the Mountain, and roaring of the Flames, frequently bursting forth, so much terrified them, that they staid not long there; for, as we said, the Ground not onely trembled under them, but the Fiery Gulph ejected great Stones, which falling down on all sides of the Mountain, rolled to the bottom; and without doubt they had there perish’d, had they not speedily run to a hollow neighboring Hill, from whence they came at length to the rest of their Company, where they were admir’d by the Indians for their undaunted Resolution, and presented with several rich Gifts. These Indians had a Tradition, That for wicked Princes, and such as had not govern’d the People well, this was the Tophet appointed for their Torments.

Strange Cities in America.

A very strange Cawse-way.

Cortez being got through the poor Territory of the Guazazingers, and having suffer’d great Cold upon the Mountains, discover’d Amaquameca, the chief City of the Province Chialco, seated in a great Lake, to which he row’d in a kind of Boats, by the Inhabitants call’d Acales. Passing from thence, he was courteously receiv’d in Iztapalapa, another City, which boasts above eight thousand Stone Buildings, besides admirable Palaces, with spacious Rooms, delightful Gardens, and Ponds full of Fish, and almost cover’d with Fowl; from whence a Wall or Cawse-way of a great breadth, that cross’d over both Land and Water, led from Iztapalapa to Tenustitan. This Cawse-way hath many Bridges, which are drawn up in time of War, under which the Water runs out of a Salt Lake into a Fresh, that ebbs and flows, although lying between high Mountains, and seventy Leagues from the Sea.

On both sides this Wall, being ten Leagues in length, appears three great 86Towns, viz. Mesiqualisingo, Colvacana, and Vuichilabusco, all Populous, and well-built.

How they make Salt.

Colvacana is supplied by the Salt Lake, to its no small benefit and inriching; for the Water being by Pipes convey’d into the City, in all the Places and Cisterns for its reception makes a Scum, which being coagulated by the Sun, and after boyl’d, becomes Salt, with which they drive a great Trade; for no Salt being to be had in any place but here, all Foreign Merchants come thither for Supply.

Remarkable Passage of King Montezuma.

Cortez being in his March within a League and a half of Tenustitan, Montezuma, preceded with a thousand of his Nobless, came to meet and salute him, all of them rather like Pilgrims, bare-footed, and congying, kissing their right Hands, with which they first kiss’d the Ground: After them appear’d Montezuma himself, who put a Chain of Gold, imboss’d with Pearls, about Cortez his Neck, and immediately conducted him to the City, where having entred, and being come into the Palace, Montezuma plac’d Cortez on a Golden Throne, and surrendred up his Right to his Catholick Majesty of Spain, in the presence of all his Peers, to their no small amazement.

But whilst all things had a good face, and went on thus fairly beyond their expectations, Cortez was inform’d, That King Coalcopoca had a Design on the new City Vera Crux, and had treacherously murder’d two of the Garrison, and wounded two more: Whereupon Cortez having such fair beginnings, who had swallow’d already in his Hopes the whole Empire and Wealth belonging to Montezuma, laid hold of this Occasion, pretending Treason, and breach of Contract; wherefore he put Montezuma under Custody, notwithstanding he had clear’d himself of the Conspiracy, by bringing Coalcopoca, with his Sons, and fifteen of his Peers, Prisoners to Tenustitan, who by the command of Cortez suffer’d a lingering death, being all burnt with Green Wood. But in vain did Montezuma think to reconcile himself with Cortez, since all he did could render no manner of satisfaction; however he continu’d to oblige him by fresh Favors, whose Relation we will be more particular in, as meriting the same.

Description of the Royal City Tenustitan.

Cacaos, what manner of Fruit.

Stately Temple.

Horrible Images.

87Montezuma’s Grandees seem’d to be much discontented, because he had without the least resistance or consideration setled a handful of Strangers to domineer over his whole Dominions, by which his weakness and pusillanimity, he was now a Prisoner, like a common Malefactor, who had formerly govern’d so mighty Territories. Amongst several Princes which seem’d thus to be concern’d, was Catumazin Governor of the Province Hacolvacan who had he not been surpriz’d and attaqu’d the Night before by the information and discovery of Montezuma himself, he would have hazarded the ruine of all Cortez his Successes: But now Fortune still daily more smil’d, giving wonderful Advantages to the Spaniards; Silver and Gold continually flowing like Rivers from all Quarters, that their onely trouble and puzzle was where and how to dispose it: but yet for all this, they were not free from jealousie, that Montezuma’s Forces might swallow theirs, though he was secur’d; of which you may judge by the vastness of his Imperial City Tenustitan, seated in the Province of Mexico, where a Salt Lake mixes its Waters with a fresh River, both which in circumference contain, as we said, seventy Leagues, and distant from the Main Land five or six Miles; the Water about it continually cover’d with small Boats rowing up and down. It hath four Stone, besides DrawBridges in several Places, and strengthned with Gates no less artificial than costly, which lead from the City to the Main Land. The Fresh Water is convey’d through the Salt in a Wall’d Channel, out of which none may take up Water, except they pay Excise to the Kings Farmers. This City boasts above sixty thousand Houses, all divided into Islands, but joyn’d with great Wooden Bridges: The Market-place surrounded with Galleries, drives a quick and constant Trade, being always full of Buyers and Sellers. In every Street they have a publick Inn, in each of which they keep Ordinaries, wherein the Tables are stor’d with well-dress’d Flesh and Fish, not wanting plenty of Wine. Their Trades are divided into several Companies, and they have their peculiar Places to dwell in. They deal very much in Cacaos, a Fruit not unlike an Almond, which beaten to Powder, and prepar’d with several other Ingredients, gives name to that excellent Drink now in use with us, call’d Chocolate: They grow onely on moist and warm Grounds, and are us’d so currently in Trade, that they go in stead of Money. Amongst many beautiful Edifices, their Guild is very magnificent, wherein twelve Judges, attended by a considerable number of Officers and Servants, sit daily, hearing and determining all manner of Causes. The next is their Chief Temple or Minster, built quadrangular, all of Free-Stone, having four Portals, opening into the four principal Streets or Triumphs, that end at the four Stone Bridges. On the Walls, being of an exceeding height, stand several Turrets, so high, that they seem to hide their Spires in the Clouds; and have Apartments, wherein the Priests Diet, Lodge, and Study, which are ascended by Marble Steps. These Religious Persons are generally of Noble Extract, which at seven years old are carried thither, where leading a very strict Life, they never come forth to see the World, till they enter the State of Matrimony. The famous Colossus, that stood over the Rhodian Haven, between whose Legs all Ships did Sail, that came in or went out of the Harbor, cannot stand in competition with the stupendious Idol Vuichilabuchichi, whose Head touches the Arch’d Ceiling of the high Temple. Near his stand several lesser Images, made of Meal and all sorts of Herbs bak’d together, and kneaded with Mens Blood. Along the Walls are exceeding dark Vaults, in which the Priests onely walk; over them are large Halls, full of Presentations of their Gods, which serve for the Burying-places of their Kings.

Whilst Cortez and Montezuma were viewing the Temple, two Spaniards rush’d suddenly into one of the Cells, where they found abundance of Lamps and Torches burning, and the Walls bedaub’d two Inches thick with Humane Gore: Over-head hung vast numbers of their Sacrificing Knives; and the stench of the place was intollerable.

Grandeur of the Kings in Tenustitan.

Strange Garden-houses.

But Cortez going on, Montezuma and his Attendants resented it very hainously, that he pull’d down some of their Idols, and durst presume to look in the Kings Face; for those People bear so great Reverence to their Kings, that none dares so much as once look up in their presence: His Council stand bare-footed, stooping with their Faces bow’d almost to the Ground before him: Four times a day they change their Apparel; and a Suit which they have once worn, is put to no other use, but presented to such Soldiers as have done some eminent Service. Whatever manner of Chargers, Dishes, Pots, Cups, and other Vessels the Emperor is serv’d in at his Table, are every Meal new. The King hath in Tenustitan three great Structures, whose Magnificence, for Cost and rare Architecture, can hardly be parallell’d. The first is the Residence for all deform’d People: The second, an Aviary for all manner of Birds and Fowl, 88being a spacious open place, Roof’d with Nets, and surrounded with Marble Galleries. The third, being a Den for Wild Beasts, was divided into several Rooms, wherein were kept Lions, Tygers, Wolves, Foxes, and all manner of Four-footed Animals.

Spaniards beaten afresh.

Remarkable Exploits of Cortez.

Tenustitan, or Mexico, taken.

But whilst Cortez having staid waiting eight Months in Tenustitan, for the return of the Messengers sent to the Spanish Court, receiv’d Tidings, That Pamphilo Narvaecy, by order of Velasques, was come with eighteen Sail, Mann’d with eight hundred Foot, and eighty Horse, from Cuba, and now riding before the Mexican Coast; from whence soon after he receiv’d unexpected Command, to come presently aboard unarm’d, and resign up his Authority: But he in stead of submission, compell’d Narvaecy in a short time to relinquish his Title, and own him for Superior. Mean while the Spaniards which remain’d in possession of Tenustitan, ran the hazard of a general Massacre; for the Citizens much stomacking the Oppressions of the Spaniards, who grew very insolent, inslaving their King, bringing their inveterate Enemies the Tlaxcallans and Guazuzingans into their City, exacting them to pay Tributes, pulling down their Gods, and demolishing their ancient Idols, they brake out from all Parts in a tumultuous manner, ran to Arms, and besieg’d them Day and Night in their Fort, although Montezuma endeavor’d to perswade the contrary. Cortez, hearing of it, came to their relief with the New Forces Landed from Cuba; but he fighting his way ere he could get in, was so roughly entertain’d by the Mexicans, that they kill’d him forty Men, wounding as many more; and notwithstanding fifteen Field-pieces with continual Shot made foul Breaches, lessening the number of the Assailants, yet they suddenly fill’d up their Vacancies again with fresh Men, which clamber’d over the Heaps of those that lay slain. Three Days the Battel had continu’d very fierce, when Montezuma being with the Spaniards in the Castle, went to a low Window, to see if he could command his Subjects to retreat; but a continual Cry so deafned their Ears, and showres of Arrows and Stones so took away their sight, that he did nothing: 89Then Montezuma, thinking to be more easily either heard or seen, went to a higher Window, where looking out, he was unfortunately hit with a Stone, of which he died three days after. Besides their Enemies, the Spaniards suffer’d extremely by Famine; and though they had beaten down a Tower, which had done the Castle great mischief, and set five hundred Houses on fire, yet they could discern no likely issue thereof, but judg’d it best to make their escape by Night over the nearest Bridge: Cortez therefore dividing his gotten Treasures, which amounted to above seven hundred thousand Duckets, amongst his Soldiers, carried Montezuma’s Son, and two Daughters, Prisoners with him, though not without infinite danger and loss; for the Tenustitans assail’d him on both sides, and falling in also upon his Rear, spar’d not to kill Montezuma’s own Children. In this last Fight the Service was so hot, that Cortez lost forty two Horse, a hundred and fifty Spaniards, and two thousand Auxiliaries; and although gotten over the Lake, they were still pursu’d by the Mexicans, who would then undoubtedly have made a general Slaughter, had not Cortez amused the Enemies, by leaving in the Night great Fires in several Places, his suppos’d Camps, whilst he silently stole away: Yet the Tenustitans would have pursu’d the Spaniards, had they not wanted Provisions: But Cortez sending his Treasure before him, through the Countrey Colva, to Vera Crux, with a Convoy of five Horse, and forty four Foot, were all cut off by the Colvaans, and feasted upon in a Thanksgiving Sacrifice. The same misfortune befel twelve Spaniards in Tepeacu, which great City surrendred it self up to Cortez, being assisted by a mighty Army of Tlaxcallans and others. But after all these Losses, he took Guaccachiulla, and Izzuca, both fortified with strong Walls and Gates; in which last he burnt above a hundred Temples, built for Humane Sacrifices. All the Countrey through which he thus ransack’d, he call’d New-Spain. From the City Tazuco, which he had newly taken, intending to besiege Tenustitan, he digg’d through the Lakes a broad Trench, of above three Leagues in length, to bring up thirteen new Ships to Tenustitan; and the neighboring People envying, that that City should not be conquer’d, as well as theirs, rais’d an Army of above a hundred and fifty thousand Men, making Cortez their General: Himself incamped on one corner of the City, appointing the other two sides to be invested by Gonsales Sandovalo, and Pedro Avarado; but the Besieg’d resolutely broke out, and made a fierce Sally with five thousand Boats, setting upon the thirteen Ships; but the great Guns made such execution and havock amongst them, that they retreated with great damage. Whoever were taken Prisoners in this Fight by the Spaniards, the Tlaxcallans, being Commission’d by Cortez, feasted upon. On the seventh day the City was taken, but not without great Slaughter, and the new King imprison’d.

Sad accident occasion’d by a Tyger.

After this mighty Conquest, Cortez resolv’d to discover those Territories that lay Southward; and whilst he was making all things ready for the Voyage, he sent two Ships with an invaluable Treasure to Spain, who fearing to be taken by the French Pyrats, ran in at Tercera, where a miserable Accident hapned to the Seamen of the biggest Ship, wherein were carried two Tygers, which though taken young, and bred up amongst men, yet had not so quite forgotten their natural ferocity, but that one breaking loose in the Night, tore seven of them in pieces, hurting a far greater number, of which some had the Brawns of their Arms, the Calves of their Legs, and fleshy parts of their Thighs bit out.

Strange Battel with Baboons.

Several Places in America breed Tygers, that far exceed Lyons in fierceness; 90so that where any considerable number of them frequents, though the Soil be never so fruitful, yet it is left desolate and forsaken. But the Baboons that frequent the Woods are more pleasant, and less dangerous. Peter Arias relates, That his whole Army incountred with these Beasts, which climb’d from one Tree to the other, shrieking, and making very strange Gesticulations to those that were gone before, and gathering their Mouths and Hands full of Stones, which they threw as exact and strongly as a Man. When one of these Baboons, shot by a Musquet, fell to the Ground, the rest gave such a horrible shriek, that the Woods resounding with the noise, strook a terror into the Spaniards. Amongst several things that hapned in this Counter-scuffle, take this one: A Spaniard taking aim with his Musquet at an old Baboon, which sate pearch’d up in a Tree, and being now just ready to give Fire, the Baboon Soldier, at the very instant, to break the Shot, taking a Stone out of his Mouth, threw it exactly into the Mans Mouth, with such force as beat out some of his Teeth; with which sudden blow surpris’d, he lost his Mark; and the proud Foe, shewing signs of Triumph, went his way.

Great destruction.

The unfortunate Expedition of Garajus.

Spaniards rosted.

Cortez his Ambition.

But whilst Cortez staid in the Countrey of Tenustitan (now call’d Mexico) Franciscus Garajus sail’d out of the Haven of Jamaica, with eleven Ships, to the River Panucus, there, according to the Command of the Emperor Charles, to plant a Colony: Whereupon he went ashore, ordering his Fleet to sail along in sight of Land: So wading through the River Montaltus, which glides between high Mountains, he came to a Morassy Ground, in which he and they often sunk almost up to the Middle, and lost his way in a Thicket of young Trees; yet at last being come to the River Panucus, he found several high Walls, being the Ruines of Fortresses, Temples, and Towers, destroy’d by Cortez; so that the City lay quite desolate. Twenty Leagues further, upon the Banks of the same River, Cortez had in like manner sack’d and destroy’d Chiglia, a Town which before its burning reckon’d above twenty thousand Houses, besides many fair Palaces, Walls, Towers, and Temples: Which Cruelties and Spoil had bred so great an Odium in the Inhabitants against the Spaniards, that they immediately sent an Army against Garajus, who had only a few half-starv’d Men with him; yet he receiv’d the Enemy twice in his Retreat to the new Colony St. Steven, rais’d out of Chiglia’s Ruines; but finding no Provisions where-ever he came, he judg’d it fittest to send his Horse into the Countrey to Forage; which Cortez meeting, took Prisoners, under pretence that Garajus came to take Possession, where he had neither Authority nor Right. Cortez also made himself Master of Garajus Ship and Fleet, commanding him withal to appear in Tenustitan, which not knowing how to avoid, he obey’d: His People mean time ranging up and down without a Head or Commander, either died by Famine, or were murther’d and eaten by the Natives; for at one time the Americans made a general Feast with two hundred and fifty rosted Spaniards: But their days of Triumph lasted not long; for Sandovalus, one of Cortez his Prime Officers, set with so much fury upon those Cannibals, that he kill’d several thousands of them, and burnt sixty Persons of Prime Quality, all Commanders, in the sight of their Friends and Relations. But Garajus, whose Son was married to Cortez his Daughter, liv’d not long after the Wedding, which occasion’d a murmur as if Cortez had poyson’d him, to rid himself of a Partner in his Government; for it had been generally observ’d, that his Ambition suffer’d no Equal. The Americans fell all down before him; all were Servants alike: The Court which he kept swarm’d with Attendance, on which he spent 91vast Sums of Money; yet his Incomes were able to bear such excessive Disbursements. He kept in constant Pay five thousand Soldiers, and several Ships ready rigg’d and prepar’d on all occasions, to hold in awe the enslav’d People, or else for the Discovery of New Countreys: Yet after all these extraordinary Charges defray’d, to shew his Wealth and Greatness, he caus’d a Piece of Cannon to be cast all of massie Gold: for the Kings which formerly acknowledg’d Montezuma for their Sovereign, gave him a yearly Revenue, most of which were valu’d to be worth twenty three Tun of Gold; for so much the King of Tescuscus, a stately City, paid, whose Houses Plaister’d with White-Lime, seem’d afar off to be rather a Chalky Hill or Mountain, cover’d with Snow: Full as much did the King pay which reigned in Otumba, notwithstanding he had receiv’d with his Christianity the Name of Ferdinand Cortez; yet others gave less: The King Guacinalgo, with his Mother, and some Slaves, bringing Gold, came to present it to Cortez; and entring the Palace, through a Guard of five hundred Horse and four Hundred Foot, which were always ready Arm’d for fear of Insurrections, he fell down prostrate on the Ground. Thus all things even out-went whatever he could desire, hope for, or imagine. And Alvaredo, one of his Commanders, being sent Eastwardly, brought great Treasures back with him, which the conquer’d Kings were forc’d to raise.

His Misfortunes.

But Fortune, who seldom continues her Favors long, at last began to frown; for Cortez having sent an unvaluable Treasure of Gold and Pearls to the Emperor Charles the Fifth, Floryn the French Pyrate met with and took it, which went so much to his Heart, that for a considerable time he sent no Advice to the Spanish Court, which made them grow jealous of him, doubting that he intended to make himself King over New-Spain; and this Suspicion was not a little augmented by his Enemies.

A Plot of two Spanish Officers.

In the Neck of these, follow’d another Misfortune; for Christopher Olitus, sent out by Cortez to discover new Countreys, rebelling, took up Arms against him, being then in the Haven Figueras, five hundred Leagues beyond. Notwithstanding the Spaniards, although amongst a new-conquer’d People, which without doubt long’d for Revenge, were not to take notice of their danger, but to go on with undaunted Resolution; whereupon Cortez drawing out a strong Party, march’d a long and troublesom way to meet Olitus, making great Slaughters where-ever he came. Francisco de las Casas was commanded to go upon the same Account by Sea, and arriving first, found him setling his new Colony, which he nam’d Triumph de Sancta Crux; and notwithstanding the Water with a Northerly Wind was very rough and boysterous in the Haven Figueras (which the Spaniards call’d so, because they found Trees there, which growing at the Foot of the Mountains, bore a Fruit not unlike a Fig) yet they came to a present Engagement, wherein Casas worsting Olitus, having sunk one of his Ships, stood out again to Sea; but surpriz’d by a violent Storm, and driven on the Shore, fell into Olitus’s Hands, who had a little before also taken Egidíus or Giles Gonsales. These two Prisoners consulted together how they might poyson or murder Olitus, which fell out according to their desires, because the Servants of the House where they lodg’d sided with them; so taking hold of the first opportunity, as they were at Supper together, they stabb’d him with their Knives in several places; yet the Wounds were not so great or mortal, but that he retain’d strength to escape in the dark to a neighboring Hut; but the Assassinates immediately sent out Messengers, publishing, That he who did not, knowing where Olitus was immediately bring him to them, should 92receive condign punishment; which terrifying Olitus, he discover’d himself, and was immediately beheaded.

Mexicans Apparel.

During the time that the Spanish Officers had these Civil Broyls one against another, Lodowick Pontæus, a Man well experienc’d in the Law, came from Spain to America, there in the Emperors Name to settle all things in good order; having also particular Instructions, to shew great kindness to Cortez, and to make him a Knight of the Order of St. James, that by that means the Emperor might be the more esteem’d for his Noble Subjects and Servants, amongst the Mexicans, who are themselves of a proud and ambitious spirit, and chiefly the Nobility, which doth manifestly appear by their Apparel, more gorgeous than the meaner sort of Americans; and though the Slaves go stark naked (having onely a Cloth tied about their Privities) and with a Bowe and Arrows walk before their Lords, yet the Better Sort go very costly Habited; for about their Necks they wear Strings of Pearl; on their Heads, a Cap, from whence hang down two Scarfs, one longer than the other; then a party-colour’d Cotton Coat covers their whole Bodies to their Knees, under which they wear a Vest girt about their Middle.

But at last, after all these Services, Cortez disagreeing with the Vice-Roy Don Antonio Mendoza, being about that time sent over, went male-contented into Spain.

Sect. XI. Diego Gottierez his Expedition.

Gottierez contests with Contreras.

Anno 1540. Gottierez being chosen Governor of New Carthage, weigh’d Anchor Is forsaken of all. from Cadiz, and sailing to Nombre de Dios, upon his Landing clash’d with Great Tempest. Roderick Contreras, in whose Place he was sent to succeed. Two Years he spent Village Francisco. without effecting any thing; but at last coming to Agreement with Contreras, Strange manner of eating. he took the Governorship upon him, having first forewarn’d him not to depend Unsatisfied Covetousness of Gottierez. 93too much upon his Authority; for the Countrey being full of Woods and Mountains, might hide many of his Enemies: But he not regarding the Advice, went a Journey from New Granada, and having march’d fifty Leagues Easterly, he cross’d into the River Suere, with sixty Spaniards, and was presented by the Princes of the Countrey with as much Gold as amounted to seven thousand Duckets. Here he spent some Weeks, effecting little; but now all things growing scarce, though he was very earnest with the Natives for Provisions, yet he could get little; which kind of Life the Soldiers disliking, and growing weary of, went away in the Night to Nicaragua. Gottierez thus left alone, got into a Boat, with intent to follow them; and being just put off from the Shore, was met by Captain Barjanto, who brought new Forces and fresh Provisions with him: This wrought upon him to stay there. Not long after Alphonso de Pisa went with twenty seven Men from Nombre de Dios to the same River Suere; but it being then very rough at the Entrance, he was necessitated to pass on to a small uninhabited Isle, where whilst he lay at an Anchor, the Weather began to grow worse and worse; the Gusts of Wind, mix’d with Showres of Rain, Thunder, and Lightning, seem’d to threaten a general Destruction; for in the Ship two Spaniards and one Moor were kill’d by the Lightning: In seventy two Days, the Sun did not shine four Hours: At last weighing Anchor, he sail’d over to the Main Land, where he saw nothing but vast Mountains and Wildernesses. Here for a time they liv’d upon Cockles found on the Shore, and wild Fruits in the Woods: At length coming to Gottierez, he sent him with his People in five Boats to fetch new Forces from Nombre de Dios. In his way thither he saw a House built of Canes, cover’d with Palm-leaves, forty five Paces long, and built after an Oval fashion: Round about it stood several lesser Hovels, all which making up a Village, the Spaniards nam’d Francisco, because they came thither on St. Francis Day. About half way they met with the Lords of Suere and Chiuppa, going to attend Gottierez, to whom being admitted, and sitting with him at Table, he gave them, as a Dainty, rosted Chickens and fresh Pork; but they gave it to their Servants, not delighting in the taste of such Victuals. Gottierez, by means of an Interpreter, told them concerning the Christian Religion, at which they bow’d their Heads, without making any Answer: But how little mind they had to embrace it, quickly appear’d; for not long after, they set their Villages on fire, and all the Provisions which they could not carry with them, they spoil’d, and so retiring, hid themselves upon inaccessible Mountains. Another Incentive leading them to this Fight, was, because the Governor Camachiren, and his Deputy (notwithstanding he had given Gottierez as much Gold, when he came first into the Countrey, as amounted to seven thousand Duckets, as we mention’d before) yet was put in Prison by his Order, contrary to all Promises: Nay, Gottierez threatned to burn him not regarding, that he had besides receiv’d of him several Pieces of Gold, resembling all manner of Beasts, as Tygers, and others; and also Fishes and Fowls curiously wrought, which were valu’d at two Tun of Gold; yet this Present seemed too little for him, whereupon bringing the Prisoner to a Chest, he swore that he would rost him by degrees, if in four days time he did not furnish him with four times as much more Gold as that Chest would hold: Whereupon Chamachiren’s Servants went away to get the requir’d Gold; but he, through carelesness of the Watch, made his escape in the Night, so that Gottierez lost his Booty. But the other Prisoners, though threatned to be torn asunder with Dogs, remain’d firm, 94disowning that they had any Gold; and among the rest, one speaking boldly to the Spanish Officer said, That he stood amaz’d at his treacherous dealings, why did he keep him Chain’d against Law and Promise, and often threaten’d him with death, but yet would not kill him, for he, said he, had rather choose to die, than live so miserable a life.

Gottierez’s Conscience troubling him, he would willingly have releas’d the Indian, and the rather, because he promis’d to procure a great ransome of Gold; but the inferior Commanders would not consent to it. After this they march’d six days through great Wildernesses, and over high Mountains, finding no Footsteps of any People. Lastly, They came down a very dangerous and steep Mountain, where had not the Shrubs and jutting Stones serv’d them to hold by, they had all broken their Necks.

Dangerous Mountains.

Strange Huts.

Fifteen Leagues, the hanging of this Mountain spread it self along a sweet River, on whose opposite Shore stood strange Huts full of dead Tygers, Deers Heads, and Legs; here they staid two days to rest themselves, where the Trees Mamei and the Cazabi Plants yielded them good Food.

Valiant fight.

Travelling forward, Gottierez ask’d an Indian which was the nearest way to a Village, but he pretending not to know any near hand, had his Head immediately cut off. In like manner, and for the same reason the Indian Prince should also have been Executed, had not Gottierez given order to the contrary; seeing his resolution, that with no less Patience than undaunted Courage, stretch’d forth his Neck to the Executioners. Mean while, their Provisions decreasing, they suffer’d extreme hunger; insomuch, that some fainted quite away. The Souldiers also rebelling against Gottierez for Food, he commanded them to kill their Dogs, and stamp the Barks of Trees; two days they travelled much discontented in this manner, and at last came to the entrance of a Wood, where they espy’d an Indian standing behind a Tree, which on a sudden ran away with incredible swiftness: early the next morning, above four thousand Indians came Marching against the faint Spaniards, making a terrible noise with Horns and Drums; they were all except their Princes Painted black and red; some wore Plumes of Feathers on their Heads, and Collars of the same about their Necks; the fight began very fiercely, by casting abundance of Stones, and shooting of Arrows, wherein, though Gottierez was at first Wounded, yet after half an hour the Assailants fled, but recruited with fresh Forces renew’d the fight, breaking into their Ranks, and making so great slaughter amongst them with Woodden Swords, and Palm-Tree Clubs, knocking down, and dealing such deadly Wounds, that of the Spaniards, three onely escap’d, saving themselves by flight, who two hours after, much amaz’d and terrify’d, came to their reserve, consisting onely of twenty four Men, which Alphonso de Risa Commanded; the insulting Enemy at their Heels, waving over their Heads the Swords, Shields, and Cross-Bows which they had gotten from the slain Spaniards; and some withal crying in the Spanish Tongue, Come Christians, come, and take Gold. But de Risa, for all their pride, set them going with some Volleys of Shot; after this, escaping innumerable other dangers, he came to Nombre de Dios, without having effected any thing of Note.

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Sect. XIa. The Expeditions of Peter Alvarado, Francisco and Gonzalvo Pizarro, and Diego de Almagro.

Pizarro’s and Almagro’s remarkable exploits.

In the City of Panama, in New Spain, liv’d three eminent Spaniards, call’d Francisco Pizarro, Diego de Almagro, and Ferdinand de Luque a Priest, which joyntly design’d to discover farther Southerly along the rich Gold and Pearl Coast, and inspect the Southern Ocean. De Luque was to look to home-affairs, and Pizarro set Sail first with a Ship Man’d with one hundred and fourteen Men, which Almagro follow’d with seventy more, yet both were valiantly repuls’d by the Peruvians; but although they return’d the first time with bad success, yet they undertook their business once more, but with no better fortune; whereupon discouraged, the undertaking seem’d to be totally laid aside, and the American Vice-Roy, Peter de Rios forbad any to attempt a farther Discovery concerning Peru.

The former difficulties with this Edict easily wrought upon Pizarro’s men, all but twelve, to leave him, for the rest went over with the Ship fitted out by Rios with succors to the Island Gallo, where Pizarro resided, having also fail’d in his second Expedition. But although he had made two bad Voyages, yet having an inclination to a third attempt, he went to Spain, desiring of the Emperor to be Governor of Peru, which he had discover’d; for besides his Plea of Merits he had taken possession of the Country twice by Landing there, intended for the use of his Imperial Majesty; one of his Sea-men to that purpose flourishing his two-handed Sword over his Head, the glittering of which Sword so frighted the Natives, that none of them durst come near him.

Pizarro’s fight on Puna.

His request being consulted upon, was at last granted, the Government of Peru being conferred upon him; but Almagro took it very ill, that Pizarro went to the Emperor on such a design for himself; yet by the mediation of his Friends the difference was reconciled, then Pizarro setting Sail with one hundred and fifty Foot besides Horse, and Landing at the Island Puna, at first was courteously entertain’d; but the Spaniards by extravagant hunting and searching every where their Houses for Gold, and committing several other outrages, incensing, chang’d the humor of the Inhabitants so much, that they fell upon them. In stead of Ensigns, Standards, and Warlike Trophies, they used long Canes, at the end whereof were ty’d the Bones of their antient Hero’s, honor’d by them after their death: But these Reliques sav’d not the Indians from slaughter, so well as the coverts of a neighboring Wood.

Comes to Peru.

Peruvian Temple.

From this Isle, lying three degrees Southward of the Equinoctial, Pizarro passed over to the Main Continent, where they were all in a great confusion, upon the report of the Spaniards cruelties committed in Puna; yet all the preparations of the Indians to withstand, stop’d not Pizarro from his intended course; for first, having the success to master Tampez, thence he made nothing to march his Forces over the River Ambato, there burning a Temple Dedicated to the Sun. The Portico stood towards the East, the rising of their God, before which hung a Curtain of their fine Cotton Stuff, within stood the presentations of two Golden Rams, shaded with Black, and as many Dragons, before which the Fire never went out, continually supply’d with Offerings of burnt Incense; 96on the Pillars hung several Men flead, their Flesh kept firm, and free from all Putrifaction, with the infusion of a sharp Juyce.

Here Almagro coming to Pizarro with fresh Forces, they made no little penetration into Peru, satisfying every where their thirst of Gold, and slaughtering the Toothless Tombezes, a people who having offended their King, had by his order the upper Teeth of the whole Nation beaten out.

Alvarado’s Exploits.

Notable Stratagem of the Peruvians.

Wickedness of a Woman.

Guatimala destroy’d by a flood.

Velasques’ Journey.

Peter Alvarado inform’d concerning the Riches of Peru, and well knowing how to insinuate with the Emperor in his fawning Letters, at last by his Friends so prevail’d, that he also got leave to go thither; in pursuance of which, Anno 1534. he Weigh’d Anchor with seven Ships from Guatimala, a City built by him between two Mountains. But Landing at Puerto Viejo, and Marching Easterly over Snowy Mountains, he was met by Almagro, between whom a bloody incounter was like to have happen’d, but after some time, a Treaty being set a Foot, they came to a Composition on these Articles: That Alvarado upon the receipt of a hundred thousand Duckets, should leave his Men with Almagro, and depart from Peru; with which sum, being inrich’d, he soon after fitted out fourteen Sail to discover new Countreys to the West; but being busie in his preparations, was sent for to Mexico by Don Antonio Mendoza the Vice-Roy, to undertake a Voyage with him to the new-discover’d Countrey of Sibolla, abounding in Gold and Saffron, according to the report of four Dominican Monks; and having already rais’d seven hundred Men, news came to Mexico, that Peter Zunica had receiv’d an overthrow by the Indians of Salisco; to whose assistance Alvarado March’d with all speed, and found the Indians incamp’d on a high Mountain, fortifi’d with conjoyn’d Trees, and great Stones ty’d together with Rushes, behind which they were secure from Shot. The Spaniards climbing up the Mountain, approach’d their Works, when on a sudden the Defendants giving a great Shout, cut the Cords which held their Fortification together, whereupon the Stones and Trees tumbled down with such force, that they kill’d both Men and Horse, few escaping alive: In this conflict Alvarado himself was lost. His Wife Beatrix Cuova made a stately Funeral for her Husband, and caus’d her House to be Painted black, refusing either to Eat or Drink for a set time, yet notwithstanding, all her pretence of sorrow, she so minded her business, that she took the Government of Guatimala into her own hands; but her Dominion lasted not long, for on the eighteenth of September, Anno 1541. happen’d a hideous Tempest of Wind and Rain, mixt with continual Lightning, and horrible claps of Thunder, and what was more terrible, was answer’d with roars and horrid bellowings from the caverns of the Mountain, at whose foot Guatimala stood. About midnight the Mountain was deliver’d, whose Birth was the irruption of an Inundating River, a precipitate torrent tumbling down full of Rocks and Stones, which carry’d all before it, so that in few minutes Guatimala was utterly swept away, not the least mark remaining, nor any left alive except Alvarado’s Bastard Daughter by an Indian; and in the adjacent Fields, some few, and they maim’d, with broken Arms or Legs; after this utter destruction, they re-built another Guatimala, three Leagues more Easterly. But though Alvarado was lost in this Enterprize, yet the Voyage to Sibolla was not laid aside, for Francisco Velasques March’d thither with eight hundred Men, of which most were Horse, but found nought else but Snowy Mountains and barren Plains, insomuch, that his Men and Horses were starv’d for want of Provision; wherefore he return’d without success to Mexico, having onely burnt some Villages, and had several Rencounters with the Natives.

Attabaliba’s message to Pizarro.

97But Attabaliba a Peruan Prince, inform’d of Pizarro and Almagro’s coming, commanded them both to depart out of his Kingdom; but they not regarding it, march’d directly to Caxamalca, where Attabaliba kept his Court, who again sent other Messengers to them with command to leave his Dominions. Pizarro made answer, that he could not obey any Commands but those of his Master the Emperor, who had order’d him to speak with the King himself at his own Palace.

Attabaliba hearing that Pizarro resolv’d to come forward, sent him a pair of Painted Shooes and Armlets, that he might put them on when he appear’d before his Throne: Captain Ferdinand Sotto march’d before with twenty Horse, passing close on the Flank of Attabaliba’s Army: The Indians amaz’d at the prauncing of their Horses, retreated into their Fortifications, but were for their cowardize immediately slain by the King’s Order.

His discourse with a Spanish Bishop, and his apparel.

Sotto sent a Message to Attabaliba, That the Spaniards desir’d peaceably to Treat with him, to which he receiv’d answer, That no Peace could be made, unless they restor’d the Gold and Silver to the Owners, which they had Plunder’d from them, and forsook his Territories; which so doing, they should have Audience the next day: Hereupon the Bishop Vincent de Villa Viridi was conducted into the Royal Palace, in the City of Caxamalca, and brought before Attabaliba, who came thither in great State, with a Guard of twenty five thousand Men; he was carry’d on the Shoulders of his prime Nobles in a Sedan, about which hung Garlands of Gold, and divers colour’d Feathers; himself was cloth’d in a white loose Vest, without Sleeves; his Temples were bound with a red Ribbon, with a long Tassel on his left Cheek; on his Fore-head stuck three curious Feathers; before him March’d three hundred of his Life-Guard, all in one Livery, who clear’d the way through which the King was to pass. The before-mention’d Bishop carry’d in one Hand a Cross, in the other a Book, discoursing with the King to this effect; That God is the Trinity, Adam the first Man; Christ Born of a Virgin, dy’d on the Cross; the Pope God’s Vice-Gerent, who according to the Power he had from Heaven, had given Peru to the Emperor Charles, as also all other Countreys in America; and if he should prove obstinate, and resist, he must expect nothing less than utter ruine. Attabaliba reply’d, That he serv’d Pachamaca, being the Creator of all things; and next to him the Sun and Moon: How glorious do they appear (said he) in comparison of a Crucifi’d God? To make Peace and Alliance with mighty Princes, was the true Foundation of wise Government: But the Pope must needs be senseless, devoy’d of all reason, and withal highly unjust, to give away what was none of his own, viz. other mens Kingdoms, in which he never had the least or smallest concern. Moreover, he would not desert that Religion which he and his Ancestors had maintain’d so many Ages, and the rather, because there are no apparent or sufficient Testimony of the truth of Christianity. The latter clause was thus answer’d, saying, This Book, O King, which I hold in my hand, proves and declares all that you question. Attabaliba looking upon it, turn’d it over Leaf by Leaf, then look’d more intentively upon the Print, which done he clap’d it to either Ear, and at last as altogether unsatisfi’d, in disdainful manner threw it away.

But Pizarro gaining time while the King and Bishop thus discours’d, had drawn his Men in Battel-Array, his sixty Horse he divided into three Wings, Commanded by his three Brothers, Ferdinand, John, and Gonzalvo Pizarro, left the Captains Sotto and Bavalcazar in an Ambuscade; Peter de Canada march’d in the Van, and he himself in the main Body, leaving Sotto in the Rear.

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Pizarro fights with Attabaliba.

Attabaliba taken prisoner.

Bids for his ransom an unvaluable treasure.

So soon as the Bishop could acquaint them in what scornful manner Attabaliba had thrown his Holy Book, The Word of God, upon the ground; both Armies were Engaged, whilst their Trumpets sounded, their Drums beat, their Canons roar’d, the Horses neigh’d, and the Dogs bark’d, they made a speedy march up against the Walls of Taxamalca, which dreadful mixture of terrible noises struck such a Pannick fear into the hearts of the Indians, that they all presently broke, in their flight crowding one another to death at the Gates of the City, which being too narrow to receive them, they themselves made breaches in their own Walls to enter; which opportunity the Spaniards no ways neglected, but entering with them, shot and kill’d all they could reach; their Dogs also having no little share in the slaughter; whole companies of Indians were trode under the Horses feet, yet near Attabaliba’s Chair was the greatest resistance, for no sooner fell one of the Bearers, but immediately another supply’d the place; so that the King was surrounded with heaps of his own slain Subjects, to whom Pizarro himself Charg’d up so close, that having seiz’d him by his long Hair, he pull’d him out of his Throne, and having gotten him under him, secur’d immediately in Fetters; whereupon all his Life-Guard forsook him, and fled: But the loss of the Battel, which was Attabaliba’s utter ruine, was laid upon Runninagui, a Captain appointed to lie in Ambush, so to fall in the Rear of the Spaniards with five thousand men; but was so far from performing his Orders, that terrifi’d at the uncouth noise of the Guns, and the rest, that he fled one hundred and fifty Leagues Southerly, before he stopt, or scarce ever look’d behind him in so long a flight. Mean while, Attabaliba compounded with Pizarro for his Ransom, viz. to pay him as much Gold as that Hall in his Court (where they made the Agreement) could hold to the top; they first measur’d the heighth, then the length, which was found to be fifty four Foot, and the breadth nine: In pursuance of this composition, Gold was brought thither from all places, according to Attabaliba’s order; yet he could not raise so much as would perform his bargain, which made the Spaniards to grumble: But Attabaliba desiring some longer time to perform it, telling Pizarro, 99that most of the Gold was brought on Slaves Shoulders, a long and troublesome way, of two hundred Leagues long, from the City Cusco, and if this would not satisfie, Pizarro might send some of his own people thither, to inform him, that he need not fear the least danger, as long as he was Prisoner with his Wife and Children.

The two Captains, Sotto, and Peter del Baro being sent away to that purpose, met after some days Journey with one of Attabaliba’s Leaders, who was bringing the King’s Brother Guascar with a Party, Prisoner to Caxamalca.

Burns his Brother Guascar alive.

Guascar had now a fair opportunity to crave assistance of the Spaniards, telling them, that he and Attabaliba were the Sons of Guaynacava, so that the Kingdom was to be divided betwixt both. But Attabaliba had by force made himself Master of all, whereas he being the youngest, ought to be satisfi’d with that share which Guascar, being the eldest, would assign him; for the right of Inheritance belong’d justly to him, and yet he was carry’d away bound to slaughter: But if Pizarro would do justice in delivering him out of his Brothers bloody Hands, he would raise him thrice as much Gold as Attabaliba had promis’d: To which purpose he desir’d Sotto and Baro to put off their Journey to Cusco; which they not daring to do, went on their way, and Guascar descending the Valley Sucsuhuana, was burnt alive by Attabaliba’s Soldiers.

Mean while, Almagro came with fresh Forces to Taxamalca, which occasion’d no small trouble in Pizarro, who was onely thirsty after Gold: On the other side, Almagro as greedy, grew jealous that Pizarro should keep the promis’d Hall full of Gold for himself, and he should have no share, because Attabaliba was his Prisoner; therefore he earnestly desir’d that Attabaliba might privately be made away, and that the Booty might be divided to one as well as the other.

An incredible sum of Money given to the Soldiers.

Attabaliba strangled.

Pizarro to prevent all inconveniencies that might happen from his dissenting, gave in the presence of the King to every private Soldier a thousand Duckets in Gold, and six thousand five hundred twenty five Silver Crowns; the inferior Officers receiv’d four and thirty thousand Crowns, and the others sixty thousand; the fifth part of the Booty he reserv’d for the Emperor: And notwithstanding Attabaliba perform’d his promise in filling the Hall full of Gold, yet he had the sentence of Death pronounc’d against him; neither would his excuse of Innocency serve, or his Requests to be sent to Spain, there to clear himself before the Emperor; but sighing, and lamenting his misfortunes, was ty’d to a Post, and Strangled in the presence of Pizarro. For whose Death, though a Heathen, Divine Vengeance pursu’d these cruel and unjust Arbitrators that thus made their Will a Law, none of them dying a natural Death.

Moreover it was observ’d, that a few days before this Execution a blazing Star appear’d, which Attabaliba seeing, presaging sadly of himself said, That a great Prince would die in a short time; but Pizarro’s chief pretences for the Kings just suffering was, that he had cruelly murder’d his Brother Guascar: But this was a meer blind, for that that incens’d them against Attabaliba, was, that he knowing where the unvaluable treasure lay, which Guascar had bury’d, would not discover it to them.

Cruelty of Ruminagui.

Pizarro puts Quizquiz to flight.

And takes Cusco.

Unvaluable Treasures taken.

Remarkable passage of a Dog.

Attabaliba, before his death, desir’d that he might be bury’d in the Territory Quito, by his Father Guaynacava, whom the Peruvians for his great Justice and Prudence in Government, believed that he would arise, and settle the World so troubled and full of disorder in peace and quiet: The Corps was accordingly 100carry’d thither in great State after their manner, attended by his Brother, whom Illescas Ruminagui which ran from Attabaliba in the Battel, where he lay in ambush when he might have done them good service; in the way to his entertainment, receiv’d with all shews of sorrow; but when they were feasted to excess, bury’d in sleep and Wine, he Massacred and flea’d Illescas the Kings Brother alive, and made a Taber of his Skin. Whilst Attabaliba’s Funeral was thus bloodily solemniz’d, his General Quizquiz rais’d a great Army, which Pizarro encountring after a valiant resistance, totally routed; then marching victoriously to Cusco, he saw great Fires in the City, and the Citizens fighting with the Spaniards, sent before; but the Horse breaking in upon them, most of them fled the next morning to the Mountains: Thus the Spaniards became Masters of the City, where they inflicted the most cruel tortures on all Sexes, by that means to force them to discover, if they knew of any hidden Treasures, being not satisfi’d with what they found there, although they had gotten a greater Treasure in Cusco than that that they had extorted from Attabaliba before: Nay, they gave those that were murther’d for Food to their Dogs: Among the rest, Didacus Salazar having a very fierce Dog call’d Bezerril, had also an old Indian Woman his Prisoner, to whom he gave a Letter to deliver to the General Pizarro; the Woman had not gone many Paces before she was set upon by Bezerril, whom Salazar let loose, that he might delight himself in seeing the Dog tear the poor old Woman; but she observing him come running at her with so great fierceness, fell down upon her Knees, and holding forth the Letter, cry’d, Good my Lord, good my Lord Dog, I must carry this Letter to General Pizarro, whereupon the furious Curr having more compassion than the Spaniard, stood still a little, and at last lifted up his Leg in a scornful manner, Urin’d upon her, and return’d satisfi’d; at which sportive behavior of the Cur and the Chrone, Salazar laughing, was so well pleas’d, that he gave the Woman her life.

Almagro’s unhappy Journey.

King’s Town.

After Cusco had been sufficiently Plunder’d, Pizarro made Almagro Governor thereof, with the Territories belonging to it, and built near the River Lima a Town, which they call’d Los Reyes. Mean while, Almagro receiv’d Letters Patent from the Emperor, in which he was nominated Marshal of Peru; encourag’d by that honor, he took a great design in hand, for the Peruvians had reported, that the Golden Chili lay to the South; and Almagro being encourag’d, and assisted by Pizarro, March’d inquest thereof with two Troops of Horse, and five hundred Foot: But mean while there happen’d so great Rains, and such foul Weather, that the Ways were almost unpassable, so that the Expedition grew very troublesome; yet however he went on, in which hard March he lost both Horse and Men.

Mango Inga takes Cusco.

Contest between Almagro and Pizarro.

Almagro strangled.

Whilst Almagro was upon this undertaking, Francisco Pizarro receiv’d Letters Patent from the Emperor, in which he was Intitul’d Duke of Peru, but with a Salvo for the honor before given to Almagro; yet these balanc’d honors bred great dissention between the Duke and Marshal, which Mango Inga another of Attabaliba’s Brothers observing, laid hold of the opportunity, and setting upon the Spanish Garrison in Cusco, took the City. Whereupon Pizarro immediately sent his Horse thither, under the Command of Alphonso Alvarado, and Gomes de Todoya, against whom the Indians fought very valiantly, insomuch, that the Battel was a long time doubtful; yet at last the Spaniards got a bloody Victory, and regain’d Cusco; hither after some time, Almagro returning with ill success, having effected nothing, was kept out by Ferdinand Pizarro, under pretence 101that he could not open the Gate without Order from his Brother the Duke. Almagro much offended thereat, yet saying little, was so privately let into the City, that he surpriz’d the Governor Ferdinand Pizarro, and his Brother Gonsalvo, with Alphonso Alvarado Prisoners; swearing that he would not rest before he had rooted all the Pizarro’s out of Peru. But whilst he was passing the intended Sentence of Death upon them, Gonsalvo and Alvarado broke Prison; and got away to the Duke, who troubled for his Brother Ferdinand there in custody, and in danger of his life, came to Composition; whereupon Ferdinand was also releas’d: But this was no sooner done, and he had got his Brother safe there, but the Duke regarding nothing less than the keeping of the new-made Peace, sent to Almagro, that the Emperor having given him the prime Command over Peru, he requir’d him to leave Cusco, or else he would force him. Almagro sent answer, That if he could see the Emperor’s Hand, he would immediately obey, otherwise not; whereupon both Parties prepar’d for War, wherein they had many sharp bickerings in a short time: But Almagro being too weak fell into the Dukes hands, who order’d him to be strangled in the Gaol, and his body afterwards to be drawn to the Market-place, and there publickly Beheaded.

Ferdinand Pizarro being not long after sent to Spain, with the fifths of the gotten Treasure for the Emperor, was Imprison’d in the Castle Motto, for Almagro’s Death: But what further happen’d to him there, or became of him, hath never been Recorded by any Pen.

Ferdinand Pizarro never obtains his liberty.

Young Almagro stabs the Duke.

But young Almagro, instigated by his Guardian John Rada, resolving, to be reveng’d for his Fathers Death; to that purpose he went to Los Reyes, where by the help of some hir’d Male-contents, he design’d to Murder the Duke upon St. John’s day, in the Church at high Service: But this business was not so closely carry’d, but the Duke had some inkling thereof, who therefore stay’d at home, and went not to Mass that day. The Conspirators doubting the event, hearing that their Plot was discover’d, though defeated in their purpose, yet not fail’d in their Courage, ran at noon day to the Palace, crying, Kill the Tyrant, kill the Traytor. But Pizarro being so much forewarn’d, had lock’d up the Gates, and arm’d himself, which when they could not enter, yet they went back through the City, and waving a bloody Sword, cry’d, Pizarro is slain; this being believ’d, above two hundred private Friends to Almagro appear’d, who all ran to the Palace, crouding about the Gates: And Francisco de Chares coming out at a private Door, hoping to pacifie the Mutineers, was immediately Stab’d; but they rushing in the way he came, found some stout opposition, for seven Halberdiers of his Guard fought till they were all kill’d in the Dukes presence; but Pizarro was taken alive, and being brought before Almagro, he Savagely Butcher’d him with his own hands; which done, they ran crying along the Streets, Long live the Emperor, and Didacus Almagro.

Great slaughter in Los Reye.

But after all this, Pizarro’s Party joyning together, valiantly withstood the Conspirators, so that a considerable number were slain on both sides, yet Almagro at last getting the better, confiscated the Goods of all those that were against him; and now every one shew’d him the respect of Chief Governor, till the Emperor should either settle him, or send another.

From hence Marching to Cusco, he had like to have paid for all, but prevented by private intelligence thereof; which happen’d thus,

Strange Transactions between Alvarado, Sotello, and Almagro.

Fight between Castro and Almagro.

Castro’s Cruelty.

Garcias Alvarado and Christopher Sotello were Joynt-Governors of Cusco; but quarrelling, and coming to Blows in like manner, Sotello was slain: This 102Almagro took very hainously, as being his intimate Friend, giving forth threatning Speeches of Revenge; which Alvarado inform’d of, and intending some way or other to prevent all Dangers, and save himself, he invited Almagro to a Feast, but privately resolving to make it a Bloody Banquet, by his Death at the Table. Of this he being inform’d, as we mention’d before, staid at home, and privately sent for some Soldiers that had belong’d to Sotello, sending word that he was indispos’d: Alvarado, under a shew of Kindness, goes to Almagro, hoping to perswade him to come to his prepar’d Treat; but so soon as he was enter’d the Hall, they clapp’d to the Gate, and the Soldiers falling upon Alvarado, slew him: But soon after Almagro was call’d in question, and not long enjoy’d this his usurp’d Authority; for the Emperor Charles sending the Learned Vacca de Castro with full Authority to Peru, to settle that disturb’d Kingdom, Almagro now us’d to Govern, had no Ears to become a Subject; therefore he march’d with an Army to meet Castro, by whom, after a bloody Fight, being beaten and put to flight, having four thousand Men, he fell into the Victors Hands near Cusco, where he was treated very severely; for shortly after he was condemn’d to be Beheaded; others were strangled, and some torn in pieces with Horses.

Vela Vice-Roy of Peru.

Murders Xuarez.

Is taken and put in Prison.

Not long after this great Execution, Blasco Nunnez Vela came to Peru, and being appointed Vice-Roy, had four Councellors assign’d him, with whom he was to consult in all Affairs; and especially to set the Indians at liberty, which till then had suffer’d much misery under the Spanish Tyranny: To perform which, the Emperor had given an Order under his Great Seal, which was to be publish’d and proclaim’d in all Places. Vela at his arrival faithfully perform’d all his Commands, seiz’d upon Vacca de Castro, because he had Executed Almagro without any Examination or Tryal; yet by this means he got the hatred of all, so that most of the Spaniards chose Gonsalvo Pizarro for their Chief, whereby Affairs grew daily more and more out of Order. Nunnez Vela laid all the blame thereof upon William Xuarez, Governor of Lima, whom he sent for in the Night, and correcting over-severely, gave him also two mortal Wounds, of which he presently died: The Body was in the Morning drawn along the Streets, which caus’d so great a murmuring amongst the Inhabitants, that soon after they seem’d to make a general Insurrection: Wherefore Nunnez Vela fearing the worst, resolv’d to convey himself from thence incognito, and pass to Truxillo: But his four Councellors advis’d him to the contrary; yet he took his own way, causing all his Treasure to be sent aboard; and having made ready his Horses to depart, the Common People in a tumultuous manner set upon the Palace, catching, snatching up, and carrying away all the Silver they could find, and meeting the Vice-Roy, seiz’d, and thrust him into a Dungeon; which done, they fell at variance amongst themselves; for some would have him executed, but others insisted to have him sent Prisoner to Spain; which last being the more moderate, getting the upper Hand, Vela was put aboard, and committed to the custody of Didacus Alvarez, who Anchoring in the Mouth of the River Tombez (kindness growing betwixt them) releas’d the Vice-Roy his Prisoner, and set him ashore, who not long after got some Forces together.

Is Beheaded.

Mean while Pizarro was every where acknowledg’d for Supreme Governor, who having Intelligence of the Vice-Roys Design, sent Francisco Carvayales thither, between whom and Vela was a sharp Encounter; but at last being worsted, and retaken by Carvayales, he was soon after executed, and his Head plac’d on a Pole near the Gallows.

103The Emperor Charles turmoil’d with Wars at home, saw no likelyhood to settle the confus’d Affairs of Peru; yet at last he thought it convenient to send one Peter Gasca thither, an Ecclesiastick, of a subtile and ingenious Wit, who landing Anno 1546. in Lima, with no other Title than Chief Councellor to the Emperor, took quite another course than Vela, perswading them all, that Affairs should be setled in order, according to their own desires, and former Miscarriages never be remembred, being utterly deleted by an Act of Oblivion.

Gasca’s murderous Exploits.

Gonsalves Pizarro strangled.

Cruelty us’d on Carvayales.

The News of this General Pardon spreading it self far and near, wrought a great change; for Pizarro’s Intimates, and those nearest of Concern, shrunk daily from him; which Gasca observing, march’d against him; and that they might make the more haste, they loaded several Peruvians, chain’d, with their Arms, whom when they lagg’d, they switch’d and whipp’d before them. And now both Armies being met, and discharging their Cannons at one another, with considerable loss to each side, whole Regiments came running over to Gasca; so that Pizarro being quite forsaken, yielded himself to the mercy of the Conqueror, who accus’d him of High Treason, and caus’d him to be strangled in a Dungeon, and fix’d his Head on a Marble Pillar in Lima, environ’d with Iron Rails, and inscrib’d with a brief Account of all his Offences. But Gasca not thus satisfied, hang’d up several Commanders, and whipping and stigmatizing others, condemn’d them after to the Gallies: But his greatest spight was against the Field-Marshal Carvayales, a Person of the Age of fourscore years, whom tying to a Horses Tail, he caus’d a whole Hour to be drawn up and down the Market-place, scorn’d and derided of all People; which done, he was quarter’d alive.

Not long after Gasca surrendred the Command of Peru to the Learned Cianca, and carried an unvaluable Treasure to Germany, for the Emperor Charles, who gave him in requital for his faithful Service, the Bishoprick of Valentia.

Sect. XII. The Expeditions of John Stade, and Nicholas Durando Villegagnon.

Stade taken by the Cannibals.

About the same time that Gasca arriv’d in Spain, John Stade had the Command His strange Entertainment amongst them. over a small Fort rais’d of Stone and Earth, on the Island Maro, adjacent to Brasile, because the Salvage People of Tupin Imba sail’d twice a year from the Countrey of Brikioka, to Maro, at the time when the Plant Abbati was ripe, of which they made the Liquor that they generally drink at their Humane Banquets: They also landed on Maro about the Bratti-Fishing. This Bratti is a Fish of a very delicious taste, either caught in Nets, or shot by the Tupin Imba, and carried to their several Habitations. Against these People Stade kept a continual Guard, when Heliodorus Hesse, Son to Eobanus Hesse, the famous Latin Poet in Germany, came to visit him. Stade to entertain his Guest the better, went into the Woods to hunt for Venison, where he was taken by the Tupin Imba, of which the King march’d in the Rear with a great Palm-Tree Club, and carried him towards the Sea side, that he, with others that waited on the Shore, might make up a Kawewipepicke (that is, A Feast of Rosted Men) But because Stade being a German of a large Body, well-skinn’d, young, plump and fat, they all concluded to spare this Dainty, and carry him alive to Brikioka, that with such a Banquet they might highly caress their Wives: But the Journey being long, and a just melancholy possessing him with fear, and the terror 104of certain death, and to be Food for such ravenous Cannibals, so macerated and consum’d him, that he was almost dwindled away to Skin and Bone; whereupon thinking him thus lean to make but few savory Morsels, they chang’d their resolutions, and growing better acquainted, he having learn’d their Tongue, and being able to discourse with them, they lik’d his company so well, that they let him live amongst them. Nine years Stade had been a Slave amongst these Man-eaters, when the French coming thither, bought him for a few Trifles, and carried him to Normandy, where landing Anno 1555. he went from thence to Hamburgh, being his Native Countrey.

Durande’s Expedition.

Dissention in the new Colony.

Wickedness of Cointak against the Ministers.

Durande drowns three Religious Men.

Nicholas Durande a Frenchman set Sail from Havre de Grace, at the same time when Stade came thither. This Durande having lost a Castle in Brittain, to the great prejudice of the French, out of a pretence of advancing their Affairs, and to fill up their almost exhausted Treasury, reported, That the Spanish and Portuguese Forces were driven out of India, where they had gather’d so much Wealth; and it would certainly redound to the Honor and Profit of France, if they could become Masters of the Gold and Silver Mines. King Henry the Second approving of the Proposal, and the more because the Admiral Gasper Coligni was also very earnest, looking upon it as a safe Retreat for the Protestants, at that time cruelly persecuted: and Durande, sensible of the Admirals thoughts, privately inform’d him, That in his American Design he chiefly aim’d to plant a True Church of God in America, where the Professors might enjoy themselves peaceably. This Report being spread amongst those that call’d themselves Protestants, (fled from Switzerland in great numbers to France) made many of them venture upon the Design; who having fitted themselves, and setting sail with three Ships, after some time arriv’d on the Coast of Brasile, and landed on the Rock-Island, in the Haven Januario: Here Durande built several Watch-houses, and the Fort Coligni, which he fortified with a considerable number of Guns: Not long after he writ to John Calvin, That he would please to furnish this new Plantation in Brasile with good and able Teachers of the Gospel; which Request being immediately taken into serious consideration by the Classes, one Philip Corguileray, a Gentleman near Geneva, set Sail out of the Haven Honfleurs, with three Ships, freighted with some Provisions, several Persons of divers Trades, and two Ministers, Peter Richer, and William Chartier: But he had scarce made Africa, when they began to have a scarcity of Victuals; wherefore they turn’d their Design of setling the Gospel in America, to Pyracy, where they made small scruple or difference, whether Friends or Foes, but made Prize of all they could light upon, though indeed their Ministers both preach’d and perswaded the contrary, amongst whom a Controversie happening, put other Business into their Heads; for one John Cointak, formerly a Parisian Sorbonist, was also amongst those that remov’d from Geneva, who pretended that Coligni had promis’d him a Ministers place, so soon as he landed at Brasile; but Richer and Chartier, not satisfied that there was any such Promise, and consequently thinking themselves not obliged by his bare Assertion, told him, That themselves being able, under God, to perform the Work, they needed no such Coadjutor: This bred so great a Rancor between them, that Cointak accus’d them for teaching false Doctrine, and chiefly that they did not mix the Wine at their Sacraments with Water, which Father Clemens had strictly commanded. Durande, being prevail’d on by the Cardinal of Lorein, joyn’d with Cointak, and thereupon so sharply persecuted the Protestants, that he starv’d several of them, which others to escape fled to the Brasilians: Nay, he took John 105Du Bordell, Matthias Vermeil, and Peter Bourdon, out of their Sick-Beds, and tying their Hands and Feet, threw them headlong from a Rock into the Sea: Soon after which, the bloody Persecutor return’d with ill success to France, where he wrote a Book against the Reform’d Religion; but all the Honor which he gain’d was, that all Parties on both sides accounted him a distracted Person.

Sect. XIII. The Expeditions of John Ribald, Renatus Laudonier, and Gurgie.

Florida unhappily discover’d.

Florida being upon the Continent of America, and so call’d by John Pontæus, Ribald’s Voyage. who landed there upon Palm-Sunday, though Sebastian Gaboto a Venetian, imploy’d The Garrison in Florida in great want. by Henry the Seventh King of England, landed there before, may well be Unheard-of Hunger. term’d the Europeans Bloody Stage, Pontæus being slain here: But Ferdinand Sotto exercis’d against the Inhabitants inhumane Cruelty five years together; yet at last died of a deep discontent, because he could not reach his Aims, having condemn’d so many Floridans fruitlesly to dig for Gold in the Mines. However, since that, Julian Sumanus and Peter Ahumada undertook the Work anew, but with the like bad Success. Anno 1545. one Lodowick Cancello, a Dominican, thought to effect great things with four of his Associates; but landing on Florida, was destroy’d by the Natives. But Gasper Coligni the Marshal, neither discourag’d by these miserable Proceedings, nor the former Treachery of Durande, prepar’d for a new Expedition thither; and accordingly John Ribald was fitted with two Ships from Diep, at the Charge of Charles the Ninth King of France, wherewith having sail’d thirty Degrees Northern Latitude, he came before the Promontory of Francisco, where he ran up into the Mouth of a wide River, to which he gave the denomination of Dolphin, upon whose Banks were whole Mulberry-Woods, which nourish’d Silk-Worms in strange abundance. From hence he sail’d by the Wolves Head (a Point so call’d, because great numbers of Wolves breed there) and leaving the Cedar-Island, landed on Florida, where he built a Triangular Fort, and having furnish’d it with Men, Guns, and Provisions, sail’d back for more Supplies to France; but coming thither, found all things in disorder, occasion’d by a War amongst themselves; so that the French which guarded and dwelt in the Fort, waited in vain for Relief, and their Provisions growing scant, thought it fittest and their best way to build a Vessel, and sail from thence; which having effected, and being gone about the third part of their Voyage there hapned such a Calm for twenty Days, that they made not the least way, which drove them to so great extremity, their Provisions being spent, that they drank their own Urine, and fed upon their old Shoes, which also in a short time failing, they agreed amongst themselves to kill and eat one of their Sea-men, call’d Henry Lacher, on whose Flesh they liv’d some days; but being again driven to the greatest want imaginable, in this extremity of Desparation, their Condition being altogether hopeless, an English Frigat discovering them, and observing by their manner of Sailing that they were in some great want, drawing near, sent their Long-boat aboard, and found them so weak, that they were not able to handle their Tack; whereupon generously taking pity of them, they reliev’d them, and conducted them to the Coast of England, and then brought them to Queen Elizabeth, who had formerly design’d to rig a Fleet for Florida.

Laudonier’s Voyage.

Remarkable difference in the French Fleet.

Mean while, no News having been heard of the foremention’d French Plantation 106in Brasile, and Coligni’s Difference with the King being decided, he prevail’d so much, that Renatus Laudonier should with three Ships sail to relieve the Garrison in the late deserted Fort. Laudonier landing in Nova Francia, found a Stone with a French Inscription, plac’d on the Shore by Ribald, and hung full of Laurel Garlands: Then he visited the King Saturiona, whose Son Atorcus had several Children by his own Mother, according to a Salvage Custom observ’d in that Countrey. Whilst they stay’d here, a Fiery Meteor appear’d in the Sky, with such fervor, that some Rivers boyl’d with the heat of it, and the Fish parboyl’d, died; nay more, it scorch’d all the Plants far and near: The Natives ascrib’d this Plague to the French Cannons, by which means they stood in great fear of the French, who might have done great things had not they differ’d amongst themselves; For a Sea-man nam’d Rubel Patracon, pretending to have skill in Necromancy, would undertake to shew the Places where the Gold and Silver Mines were, which the rest of the Sea-men believing, rebell’d against Laudonier, and though sick, imprison’d him, forcing him to sign a Writing to this effect, That the two Ships, of which the Rebels made Vassar and Trincant Commanders, should with his leave and permittance sail to New Spain for Provisions. Whilst they were preparing for their Voyage, Rupiferrir having been sent to the King Utina, came back with many rich Presents, and withal brought Information of the Gold and Silver Mynes Apalatica; but Vassar and Trincant taking no notice thereof, set forth, and took a Spanish Carvel, richly laden before Havana, whose Commander they agreed to release on the payment of a great Ransom; but the Masters Son being sent ashore to fetch the Money which they had agreed for, in stead thereof, made his Fathers Mischance known; whereupon two great Frigats and a Galley were the next Morning very early sent to attaque the French, between whom was a sharp Encounter; but in a short time the two Pyrats were sunk, and the Prisoners sold for Slaves, excepting a few that escap’d in their Long-boat.

Great cruelty of the Spaniards against the French.

Gurgie’s valiant Exploits against the Spaniards.

In this interim Laudonier receiving no Supply from France, was brought to great extremity; for the Rebels had carried great part of his Store with them. In these straights he was forc’d by those that staid with him, contrary to the Articles of Peace lately made with King Utina, to take him Prisoner, in hopes that for his Liberty he would procure them some Provisions; but the Inhabitants incens’d at the baseness of so unexpected an Action, could not be wrought upon by any means to give them Relief; but grown more perverse than before, appointed a general Meeting to elect another King; so that out of all hopes, they utterly gave themselves over for lost. In this desperate condition, John Haukins, a great Sea-Captain, came thither with four English Ships, who pitying their misery, furnish’d them with Necessaries, and having onely four Vessels, lent them one, because Laudonier was at that time too weak to endure the Sea; but not long after recovering strength, and all things ready to set Sail, Ribald came to an Anchor before Charles-Fort, with seven Ships from Diep: Within few days after, the Spanish Admiral Peter Melandez arriv’d with eight Frigats, whereof the French having Intelligence, cut their Cables, and stood out to Sea, whom the Spaniards chac’d, but could not reach; whereupon leaving them, they landed in the Mouth of the River Dolphin, where by help of the Moorish Slaves they began to intrench themselves; of which Ribald having notice, immediately sail’d thither, at least to disturb, if not absolutely drive them from their Work; but surpriz’d in the way by a great Storm, lost most of his Fleet, ingag’d among the Rocks; yet the Men were most of 107them sav’d. In this Storm the Spaniards also suffer’d great damage, yet made an Advantage of the Frenchmens Misfortune, marching with all speed to Charles-Fort, in which were onely two hundred weak Men, Ribald having taken the primest Soldiers along with him. In the Morning before Sun-rise the Spaniards made a fierce Assault, and in a short time became Masters of the Place, which Laudonier seeing, fled in a Boat; others leaping from the Walls into the Moat, sav’d themselves by swimming: Whoever fell into the Victors Hands, was without mercy slain; nay, such was the Spaniards inveterate malice to the French, that wanting living Bodies, they exercis’d their Cruelty upon the dead, pulling out their Eyes, and cutting off their Members, carrying them in Triumph on the Points of their Swords. In the interim, the Storm ceasing, Ribald approach’d Charles-Fort, with his shatter’d Fleet, but was so amaz’d when he saw the Spanish Flag set upon the Walls, and Vallemond marching towards him with a Squadron of Spaniards, that although a River lay between them, yet he presently came to a Treaty, and deliver’d up all his Men, being above four hundred, upon promise of good Quarter; but the Spaniards in stead of keeping their Agreement, bound them, leading them all to the Castle, where, both against their Articles, and the Law of Arms, they massacred them, and burnt their Bodies; but Ribald being quarter’d, they fix’d his Limbs upon Poles about the Walls, sending his Head to Sevil. When Charles the Ninth, King of France, receiv’d notice hereof, he was not in the least concern’d at the Spanish Cruelty us’d to his Subjects, out of a particular hatred to Coligni, the first Promoter of the Voyage. But though the French Crown so little regarded the inhumane Usage committed by the Spaniards in Charles-Fort, yet Dominicus Gurgie shew’d himself so highly concern’d thereat, that turning all his Goods into Money, he levied two hundred Soldiers, and fourscore Sea-men, which he put aboard three small Ships, pretending that he would onely touch at Brasile; but sailing beyond Cuba, he stood directly for Florida, where after his Landing he was kindly receiv’d by Saturiona the King, who complaining much against the Spaniards Oppressions, sent to joyn with him his Kinsman Olotocara, having the Command of a great Army.

Is ungratefully rewarded.

The Spaniards by this time had not onely strengthned Charles-Fort, but also rais’d two others on each side of the River Mayo, in which three Holds lay Garrison’d above four hundred choice Soldiers. Those in the new Forts made little resistance; but quitting the same, and flying into a neighboring Wood, fell into an Ambuscade of Indians, who slew thirty of them, and preserv’d ninety for a Publick Execution. Thus they march’d on victoriously to Charles-Fort, where by the way sixty Spaniards sallying out, were every one cut off, which much facilitated the Frenchmens Work. The Governor Melandez, seeing a certain ruine attend him, fled into the Woods; but met there by the Floridans, return’d to the French, of whom he begg’d Life for himself, and some of his People: Yet Gurgie deaf to all intreaties, would hear nothing, but pressing on, took them all Prisoners, and as a just Reward of their Cruelty to his Countrey-men, hang’d them on the next Trees: After which Execution, it can scarce be express’d how kindly the Natives entertain’d the French, because they had freed the Countrey from the Spanish Oppressions. Thus having accomplish’d his Design, and returning home, he was nobly receiv’d at Rochel, but had not the least Countenance for all his trouble from the King; the Cardinal of Lorein telling him, That for his good Service he ought to suffer death, because he had fitted out three Ships upon his own Account, without Authority.

108

Sect. XIV. Four English Expeditions, under the Conduct of our Famous Sea-Captains Martin Forbisher, Sir Francis Drake, Thomas Candish, and John Smith.

Forbisher’s Expedition.

Captain Forbisher sailing to the Northern Parts of America, Anno 1576. chusing a bad time, the Year being too much spent, and the Ocean so full of Ice, that it forc’d him to return to England: Not many Months after, he renew’d his Voyage, Queen Elizabeth having rigg’d out, and sent under his Command one Frigat and two Ketches, Mann’d with a hundred and forty Men: The twenty sixth of May he weigh’d Anchor, and sail’d to the Orkenies, lying to the North of Scotland, where landing, he found the poor Islanders fled out of their Huts, into Caves and Dens among the Rocks. From thence he steer’d North-North-West, through abundance of floating Pieces of Timber, which oftentimes gave him great stops. The fourth of July he made Friezland, where he met with a great Storm of Hail, mix’d with Snow: Before the Shore lay a great Ridge of Ice, which hindred for a while their Landing: Here he saw several Wild People, but could not come to speak with them; for upon the least approach they fled; yet when they saw any advantage, made resistance: At last, three of them came unarm’d to the Shore, beckoning Forbisher to come to them; which he had done, had not great numbers of the Natives appear’d too soon from an Ambuscade in a Wood, and behind a Hill, who seeing themselves discover’d, march’d up into the Countrey, three onely staying on the Shore, of whom the middlemost feigning to be lame, at last fell down, whom his Companions took up, and carried a little way, but then forsook, by which the English observing their Design, shot that the Sand flew all about him; whereupon forgetting his Lameness, he ran as swift as a Deer up a Hill.

Forbisher’s Men had by this time fill’d two Barrels with a Mineral not unlike Gold, but was afterwards found to be of little value. Nothing else of Remark did he find here, except great long-hair’d Men, who being exceeding salvage, subtilly plot nothing else but to murder, lurking for Men, like Wild Beasts for their Prey, whom, when caught, they tear in pieces. Close fitted to their Bodies, they wore the Skins of several Wild Beasts, priding in the Tails which hung down betwixt their Legs. Their Tents are of conjoyn’d Whalebones, cover’d over with the like Skins, the Entrance always facing the South. They use Bowes, Arrows, Slings, and two sorts of Boats: In the biggest they can carry seventeen Men, which are made of several Wooden Planks clinch’d together, and cased on both sides with Leather: The smallest ones are cover’d just in the same manner, much resembling a Weavers Shuttle, having in the middle a Hole, wherein a Man sits, who drawing the Cover of the Boat about his Waste by Strings, with one Oar makes swift Passage.

The Countrey it self is barren, yet feeds abundance of Deer, Hares, Wolves, Bears, and Dogs like Wolves, whose Flesh serves the Inhabitants for Food.

This Countrey seems to be exceedingly troubled with great Earthquakes, because several pieces of Rocks, and whole Mountains rent asunder, may be seen in divers places.

The fourth of August, Forbisher having elevated the Pole to sixty eight Degrees, beyond what Sebastian Cabot, the first Discoverer of those Parts, and set out by Henry the Seventh, had done (for America Northward never before had 109been so far penetrated) and laden with a sort of shining Sand, which he believ’d might contain much of a Golden Oar, having with him three of the Natives, viz. a Man, a Woman, and a Child, set Sail for England, and the seventh of September came to Milford-Haven, and not long after arriv’d in London, where in short time the Salvages died.

Sir Francis Drake’s Expedition.

At the same time when Forbisher sail’d Northerly, Sir Francis Drake also, fitted out by Queen Elizabeth, steer’d another Course, sailing by Cape Blanko and Cape Verde, along the African Coast, to Brasile, where he caught several Sea-Wolves, and Anchoring in the River La Plata, furnish’d himself with Fresh Water: Then proceeding on his Voyage through the crooked Straights of Magellan, he came to an Anchor before Moucha, wash’d by the South Sea. The Islanders receiv’d him very courteously, because they were inform’d that the English were at great Wars with the Spaniards, to avoid whose Cruelties, they had deserted the main Continent, and setled on Moucha. One of these Mouchaners going aboard, serv’d them for a Pilot to the Haven Valparizo, where Drake burnt the St. Jago, a small Village, and plundring all the Countrey about it, got together a great Treasure of Gold and Silver. Before Arica he took three Spanish Ships, richly laden; and before Lima, four more, having an unvaluable Treasure of Pearls and Gold aboard them. Thus inrich’d, he steer’d his Course Northerly to forty two Degrees; but the Cold forcing him to fall four Degrees to the Southward, he discover’d a very pleasant and inhabited Coast, the People whereof shew’d him great kindness: The King himself coming aboard with a great Train, set a Crown of Gold upon Drakes Head, and gave him a Golden Scepter, and an Ivory Chain. After this he inspected the Islands Tidor, Ternata, Java, Zeilon, and Cape de Bona Esperanza, from whence, after a three Years Voyage, having encompass’d the World, he came safe to London, where he rested not long; for sailing Anno 1585. to America, he took great Prizes from the Cities St. Jago, St. Domingo, St. Augustin, and Carthagena, setting them all on Fire. Thus again returning home victoriously, and after the famous defeat of the 110Spanish Armado, he rigg’d out a new Fleet, having for his Vice-Admiral Captain Hawkins: Their Design was to have sail’d to Panama; but both dying, and so the Commission ceasing, the expected great and golden Project also died with them.

Candish his Expedition.

A Year after the death of these famous Navigators, Captain Thomas Candish Mann’d with a hundred and twenty Men, and Provisions for two Years, setting sail in a lucky Hour, a second time encompass’d the World, passing the Straights of Magellan; in which Voyage having got above ten times the value of his Charge, by taking the Spanish Carrack St. Anna, valued at twenty Tun of Gold; and at last freighted with a Mass of Treasure, he came safe into the River of Thames.