This page has been validated.
182
ABOUT MEXICO.
then, when almost in sight of the city so long the goal of their hopes, to turn back. They laid more gold at the general's feet, with many rich and costly stuffs and an offer of tribute without stint. They were kindly received, as before. Cortez assured them that he would be very willing to oblige Montezuma by turning back, but that he had come by command of his king, who would never be satisfied without a full account of the country from an eye-witness. After a personal interview with Montezuma he would be better able to decide how much tribute the Aztecs should pay to his master.
