CHAPTER VIII 90

Hernando Cortez Commissioned by Velasquez to Explore Mexico--Some Romantic Adventures--Why Cortez went to Cuba--His Relations with Velasquez--A Crisis in Spain's American Affairs--Appointment of Velasquez as Adelantado--Departure of Cortez--His Refusal to Return when Summoned by Velasquez--Arrival in Mexico--Appointment of Cortez as Royal Governor of New Spain--Preparations by Velasquez to Subdue Cortez--Disastrous Fate of Narvaez's Expedition--Conspiracy to Assassinate Cortez--Velasquez Removed from the Governorship of Cuba--Zuazo, the Second Governor--Vindication of Velasquez and Repudiation of Zuazo--Character and Work of First Cuban Governor.