Stories of the Conquests of Mexico and Peru (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1872 edition. Excerpt: ...were these combats d Voutrance conducted, and with such skill did they manage their weapons, that they drew forth the admiration of the Spaniards, at that period a people most conspicuous among Europeans for their chivalrous practices. Upon his return to Tezcuco, Cortes again received a message from Chalco, soliciting aid against the Mexicans. Sandoval was again sent to their aid. This officer and his detachment having performed prodigies of valour, returned to Tezcuco. As soon, however, as his back was turned upon the town, it was once more invested by another body of the enemy, and the Chalcans sent a message to Cortes, telling him they were now in as great danger as before. These messengers arrived simultaneously with Sandoval and his army, WELCOME INTELLIGENCE. 251 when the general, suspecting some negligence on the part of his officer, severely reprimanded him, and ordered him back to Chalco. In silence Sandoval obeyed, but, upon his return, wounded by the treatment he had received, retired to his own quarters without presenting himself before his chief. The coolness, however, between these brave men did not long continue; for Cortes, having discovered his error, made the most ample apologies to Sandoval. Soon after he received news that three vessels had arrived at Villa Rica with 200 men, 80 horses, and a large supply of arms and ammunition. This was welcome intelligence for the general, but as good came to the soldiers; for a Dominican friar had arrived in the same ship, bringing a quantity of pontifical bulls, offering indulgences to those engaged in war against the infidel. This was a profitable transaction for the good father; for such a prosperous traffic did he drive in these spiritual wars, that at the end of a few months he...