A hunting-trip to one of the imperial reserves across the lake was at once arranged.[1] The largest vessel had been provided with awnings and other comforts for the reception of Montezuma, his suite, and a strong guard, while other notables were accommodated in the other craft. A volley from the guns announced their arrival, and did more probably to inspire respect than even the presence of majesty. The vessels were accompanied by a fleet of canoes, some holding forty or more courtiers, hunters, or attendants. All were curious to see how the winged water-houses would behave, for their immense size was supposed to render them slow and clumsy. A fair breeze was blowing, however, and as the large sails unfurled, the vessels bounded forward with a speed that in a few moments left the occupants of the canoes far behind. Montezuma was delighted, and the trip was repeated. Hunting parties were likewise formed; for the royal captive enjoyed the chase and used the blow-pipe with great skill.[2]
- ↑ 'En la laguna á vn peñol, que estaua acotado, q͏̄ no ossauan entrar en èl á montear, por muy principales que fuessen, so pena de muerte.' Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 78.
- ↑ Native Races, ii. 411. 'Quádo yua a caça de monteria, le lleuauan en ombros, con las guardas de Castellanos, y tres mil Indios Tlascaltecas. . . .Acompañauanle los señores sus vassallos.' Herrera, dec. ii. lib. viii. cap. iv.
