have they to lead them? Was not Cacama betrayed by his
own nobles? Let us send for Cuitcatl, and hear what he advises us."

Cuitcatl, on his arrival, was so thunderstruck on hearing that
Montezuma had so debased himself, to the Spaniards, as to depose
his own nephew, whose only fault was patriotism, and who had been
endeavoring to effect his rescue, that he was for a minute or two
speechless with indignation.

"The gods have, indeed, deserted us," he said; "when they have
turned a monarch who was considered brave and honorable into a base
slave. May their vengeance fall upon him! May the curse of our
ruined country descend upon the man who is the real author of our
misfortunes!"

"Do you think, Cuitcatl," Amenche asked, "that the people will
receive this usurper?"

"I fear, indeed, that they will do so," he replied. "Montezuma has
appointed him, and Montezuma's name still has power. At any rate,
it will afford them an excuse for submission. Besides, how could
they fight when so many of our own nobles are treacherous?
Doubtless Cacama will not be the only victim, and Montezuma will,
at the orders of the Spaniards, disgrace all who have acted with
him."

"Then what would you advise us to do? We are both resolved that we
will not await the coming of this usurper."

"My house is at your service," Cuitcatl said. "It lies, as you
know, near the foot of the hills; and whatever strife may go on
here, its quiet is little likely to be invaded. Cuicuitzca will not
concern himself at present with you, nor would he venture to take
any hostile steps against you; for did he do so, it would excite a
storm of indignation.

"As to you, Princess, as his own sister, and of the royal blood,
you could if you liked stay here, as at present; and indeed, were
it not that I am sure you would not leave the queen, I should
advise you to do so; for you might then act in the interests of
Cacama, should you see an opportunity."

Amenche shook her head.

"No," she said, "brother though he is, I would not bend my head
before a usurper, while Cacama lives. When do you think we had
better leave here?"

"I should say it were best to leave at once," Cuitcatl replied. "I
will order three or four litters to be prepared; for yourselves
and, say, two of your most trusted attendants. Bathalda will find,
in the town, men on whom he can rely to take you. In this way none
here will know where you have gone. I will have the litters in
readiness at