field or in the town, it was all the same to
him, and to convince himself as to how matters really stood he was
determined to visit their metropolis. When the Mexican ambassadors found
him thus determined, they begged of him to remain for at least another
six days in his present quarters, that they might first send messengers
to communicate with Motecusuma, and would return again with his answer
in the time specified.

To this Cortes consented, partly on account of his ague, partly because
he thought the warnings the Mexicans had given him might not be
altogether so unfounded as he imagined. In that time he could also gain
more certain proofs of the real intentions of the Tlascallans.

As everything now wore a peaceable aspect, and the whole country from
the town of Vera Cruz up to our present quarters, was inhabited by
friendly tribes and our allies, Cortes ventured to forward a letter to
Juan de Escalante, who had remained behind there in garrison. He desired
him to complete the buildings, and then gave him an account of the great
victories we had gained since our arrival in Tlascalla, and how we had
compelled the inhabitants to sue for peace. He also desired him to make
a day of thanksgiving, and in every way to favour our allies of the
Totonaque mountains. Lastly, he requested him to send two bottles of
wine which he had buried in a certain corner of his quarters there, and
some holy wafers, as we had none left. Escalante sent a speedy answer
with the things Cortes required. It may easily be imagined how joyously
this news was received at Vera Cruz, without my spending many words upon
it.

During these days we erected a majestic cross in our quarters, and
Cortes had one of the temples in our neighbourhood cleansed and fresh
plastered by the inhabitants of Zumpanzingo, and some other Indians.
But, to return to our new friends, the caziques of Tlascalla; the
postponement of our visit greatly distressed them, yet they continued to
send us fowls and figs,[28] which were now just in season, and a daily
supply of provisions. This they did with the best of good will, nor
would they ever take anything in return; on the contrary, they daily
more earnestly begged of Cortes not to delay his visit any longer. Our
general, however, was desirous of waiting the six days for the return of
the Mexican ambassadors, and he each time put off the Tlascallans with
some friendly excuse.

The Mexicans faithfully kept their word, and at