CHAPTER V.

ARRIVAL OF THE SPANIARDS AT THE CAPITAL--THEIR RECEPTION BY MONTEZUMA--DETERMINED HOSTILITY OF GUATIMOZIN. 81

Singular relative position of the Spaniard and the Aztec--The power and timidity of the one, and the danger and boldness of the other--Speculation--Cortez advancing--The Grand Causeway--The Fort of Xoloc--The Emperor's retinue--Abject deference of his lords--Magnificent palanquin--His personal appearance and costume--The reception--Exchange of presents--Montezuma retires--Cuitlahua escorts the Spaniards to their quarters--Their admiration on seeing the splendor of the city--Curiosity of the people--The omens of that day--Their influence upon Montezuma--Guatimozin's true devotion to his country--His interview with the Princess--True interpretation of the omens--Filial devotion versus patriotism--The pledge--A new omen--The parrot turned prophet--Karee and her prediction--Extreme sensitiveness of the Princess.