WORKS ISSUED BY

The Hakluyt Society

THE WAR OF QUITO

SECOND SERIES
No. XXXI
ISSUED FOR 1913

COUNCIL
OF
THE HAKLUYT SOCIETY.

Albert Gray, Esq., K.C., President.

The Right Hon. The Lord Belhaven and Stenton, Vice-President.

Sir Clements Robert Markham, K.C.B., F.R.S., Ex-Pres. R.G.S., Vice-President.

The Right Hon. The Lord Peckover of Wisbech, Vice-President.

Admiral Sir Lewis Beaumont, G.C.B., K.C.M.G.

Sir Thomas B. Bowring.

Lieut.-Colonel Charles Frederick Close, C.M.G., R.E.

Bolton Glanvill Corney, Esq., I.S.O.

Major Leonard Darwin, late R.E., late Pres. R.G.S.

William Foster, Esq., C.I.E.

F. H. H. Guillemard, M.D.

Edward Heawood, Esq., Treasurer.

Sir Everard im thurn, K.C.M.G., C.B.

John Scott Keltie, LL.D.

Admiral Sir Albert Hastings Markham, K.C.B.

Alfred P. Maudslay, Esq.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir Matthew Nathan, G.C.M.G., R.E.

Admiral of the Fleet The Right Hon. Sir Edward Hobart Seymour, G.C.B., O.M., G.C.V.O., LL.D.

H. R. Tedder, Esq.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir Richard Carnac Temple, Bart., C.I.E.

Basil Home Thomson, Esq.

J. A. J. de Villiers, Esq., Hon. Secretary.

THE WAR OF QUITO

BY
PEDRO DE CIEZA DE LEON
AND
INCA DOCUMENTS
TRANSLATED AND EDITED
BY
SIR CLEMENTS R. MARKHAM, K.C.B.
VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE HAKLUYT SOCIETY
LONDON:
PRINTED FOR THE HAKLUYT SOCIETY
MDCCCCXIII
Cambridge:
PRINTED BY JOHN CLAY, M.A.
AT THE UNIVERSITY PRESS

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTORY NOTE

CIEZA DE LEON, besides his two chronicles (translations of which already form part of the first series of the Hakluyt Society’s volumes), completed a history of the conquest and civil wars of Peru. The manuscripts have not all been found, but Jimenes de la Espada edited and published the first part of the “War of Quito” by Cieza de Leon in 1880. It is valuable because Cieza was the most trustworthy of all the old writers on Peru, and because he was on the spot and acquainted with many of the actors in the scenes he describes. Cieza is always fair and impartial.

The interest attaching to this recovered work of Cieza is that it records the attempt of the Spanish Government, at the instance of Las Casas, to befriend the Indians by enforcing laws for their protection. It will be seen that the martinet who was sent as Viceroy to carry out the policy of the Government was a hopelessly impossible person. The hopes of the Inca Manco were raised on receiving the news of the Viceroy’s arrival with the New Laws, and he died in the full anticipation that there was a dawn of better things for his people.

The narrative of Cieza is well told and full of interest. But it comes to an end just before the Viceroy’s murder of the Factor Illan Suarez de Carbajal, which was the immediate cause of his overthrow. To the narrative of Cieza is, therefore, added in the present volume a letter from the Bishop of Cuzco to Charles V which describes the murder and subsequent events. The letter is followed by the Indictment of the Judges against the Viceroy, also giving their version of the murder and of the events which followed.

To complete the story a Sequel has been written by the editor, narrating the events from the assumption of the government by Gonzalo Pizarro to his complete victory and the death of the Viceroy at Añaquito. From that date, for too short a time, Gonzalo Pizarro was Governor of Peru, and in possession of the only approach by Panama, with none to oppose him.

His Camp Master was Francisco de Carbajal, a veteran of the Italian wars, now verging on his eightieth year, and very corpulent. His life story, up to this time, will be found in the narrative of Cieza, in the Sequel, and in notes. Carbajal is accused of great cruelty. It is true that he showed no mercy to traitors and deserters, from policy not from innate cruelty. The treachery of nearly every one in Peru is perfectly astounding, as will be seen in Cieza’s narrative; and strong measures were absolutely inevitable. But he was kind and indulgent to his own men, and he had a wife who was attached to him, a Portuguese lady named Leyton, of good family. Carbajal was a soldier with forty years of experience in the wars of Italy and by far the ablest military man in Peru. He was well educated, extraordinarily sagacious and far-seeing, very witty and humorous, and possessed of almost incredible physical endurance.

The wise old man saw that there could be no forgiveness for Gonzalo Pizarro, and that it was quite futile to send envoys to Spain to explain what had happened and to apply for the governorship for Gonzalo. He, therefore, urged Gonzalo Pizarro to assume the kingship, to create nobles, to grant encomiendas in perpetuity, to marry an Inca princess, and to enact judicious laws for the efficient protection of the Indians. By these measures he would secure the support of all the Spaniards and all the native population—there would be such unanimity that attacks from without would be repulsed. The only safety was in a bold front. The words of wisdom were only listened to with favour, but not adopted.

The Sequel is followed by an interesting letter from Carbajal to Pizarro in which he refers to the kingship.

Pizarro hesitated and was lost. There was the basest treachery. Hinojosa and Aldana delivered up Panama and the fleet to the cleric Pedro de la Gasca, who had been sent out with full powers.

A translation of a curious document in the King’s library at Madrid follows, giving an account of the storm encountered by Gasca on his voyage to Peru.

Next there is a translation of Appendix No. 18 in Espada’s edition of Cieza de Leon’s “Guerra de Quito.” It is only a fragment, but it contains the account of the murder of the Inca Manco, given by his son Titu Cusi Yupanqui, who was an eye-witness.

The last document is the exceedingly interesting Report by Diego Rodriguez de Figueroa of his mission to Titu Cusi Yupanqui Inca, between 1565 and 1568.

THE WAR OF QUITO [1]
BY
PEDRO DE CIEZA DE LEON

CHAPTER I

How the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela sailed from San Lucar, and what happened until his arrival at the city of Panama, which is in the kingdom of Tierra Firme.

THE Viceroy Blasco Nuñez had been ordered to fit out ships to sail from Spain, and to continue his journey to the kingdoms of Peru. When everything was ready, he sailed from that port, with the knights who were to accompany him, on Saturday the 3rd day of the month of November in the year of our redemption 1543[2]. Navigating swiftly over the great ocean sea, he sailed on until he arrived at Gran Canaria. Here he took in fresh provisions and was joined by the Licentiate Cepeda, who was going out as a Judge. Leaving that island, the voyage was continued until the ships arrived at Nombre de Dios three days after Epiphany in 1544. Here he remained for 15 or 16 days, at the end of which time he proceeded to the city of Panama with those who had accompanied him.

I deeply lament that a knight so accomplished as was the Viceroy should have fallen into the hands of such wicked and perverse men. For his want of judgment and lack of prudence in public affairs did not merit a death so cruel as he met with at Añaquito near the equator. The things that must happen cannot be prevented, and all is in the will of the most high God.

The Viceroy arrived at the city of Panama without waiting for the Judges who, for some reason, did not leave Nombre de Dios with him, but remained there. The Viceroy found the Licentiate Pedro Ramirez de Quiñones, now Judge of the Confines, in Panama. He was taking the residencia of Dr Villalobos and the Licentiate Paez, who had been Judges of the Court established in that kingdom. Presently the Viceroy took the royal seal, and placed it in a box with the veneration which was its due, with several chapters of the Ordinances[3], intending to carry out the orders literally. They required that all the men and women of Peru should be sent to their native homes at the cost of those who possessed them, it being the will of the King that they should be free, as his subjects and vassals[5]. Notwithstanding that the order was just and righteous, some of the Indians evaded it because they were married, others because they liked their masters and were tolerably instructed in the matters of our Holy Catholic Faith. Even of those who were ordered to depart many merely went to hide in secret places so as not to go whither they were sent, and others went to the churches, whence they were taken by order of the Viceroy, and put on board ships, where many died. So that very few returned to their native places, and those that did went back to the rites and idolatries they had formerly been accustomed to. There was thus no benefit derived from compliance with this ordinance. Some Spanish conquerors, who returned to Spain, had lived with Indian women for many years, and had children by them. These were to be sent to the native places of the mothers at the cost of their masters. If they disputed or complained they had to pay double for freight and passage. Some had small children and prayed that they might not be sent to die owing to having no mothers. These were ordered to pay a still larger sum.

The authorities, appointed to enforce the new laws in Peru, were the Viceroy and four Judges of the Royal Court of Justice[6].

When the Judges arrived at Panama there were some entertainments, and it was reported that the Viceroy and the Judges were not on very good terms, and that, in secret, neither he treated them well, nor they him. Considering the severity of the new laws, and the difficulty of enforcing them in Peru, owing to the resistance of those in that kingdom, the Judges suggested to the Viceroy that an intention to enforce them should not be shown until they were in possession of Peru. When the Court was established there, it would be easier to enforce the orders of his Majesty. The Viceroy had received news of what was passing in Peru, of the great number of people in that kingdom, of the proceedings of the Governor Vaca de Castro, and that there were many charges for artillery and arquebuses and much gunpowder in the cities of Lima and Cuzco. He was strongly advised to enter Peru quietly and with consideration, for if he came in another way there would be a rebellion against him. For besides the arms and people actually in the country, more came every day, and are now coming. But the Viceroy, unmoved by these reports, replied that his single cloak and sword would suffice for all Peru. Many, hearing these boastings, foresaw what they must be prepared for. As the ordinances were so severe against men who had lived so freely as those in Peru, and so heavy for them, it was evident that they would take up arms, for it was their custom to contend in war for very slight causes.

CHAPTER II

Of what other things happened at Panama, and what the Governor Rodrigo de Contreras and the Judges said to the Viceroy respecting the ordinances.

THERE was no less commotion in Tierra Firme than in Peru on hearing that the Viceroy intended to enforce the ordinances and to hold the kingdom under a rule of such right and justice that no one should live in licentiousness, as had hitherto been the case. Rodrigo de Contreras, who had been Governor of Nicaragua, was at that time in Panama. He saw that the Viceroy would not keep in his own bosom a single part of what he had been ordered to do: but on the contrary declared publicly, so that all might hear, affirming it with an oath, that he will not have landed at Tumbez before the Indians had been informed that they were vassals of the Emperor our Lord, and that the Encomenderos had no authority over them except for the collection of tribute which the Indians were bound to pay: also that the ordinances would be enforced as the King had ordered.

Contreras went to the Viceroy’s lodging, and said: “I cannot believe that your Lordship is ignorant of the alarm caused by your arrival with these new laws, among the Spaniards in this empire of the Indies, from the islands to this part. Even if your ears are deaf to this, as the tumult has not yet ended, you must have heard the clamour that is made over it. Neither I nor those here complain that his Majesty has sent the new laws for, like so very Christian a prince, he desires that affairs here should be ordered with rectitude and moderation. For we hold for certain that his ministers who come to execute laws, zealous for his service, will see that the state of affairs renders it advisable not to enforce them. I regret, therefore, that your Lordship has publicly declared that you will not have landed in New Castille before the new laws are published and enforced. The ordinances which I brought out, not only did I not publish, but I was in the province a year and more and had not promulgated them. Later, when it is clear that the provinces are quieted and that there is no trouble, I shall decide what should be done. For if the ordinances were hastily enforced it might cause great evils. In this country the Spaniards are not of low degree, but all consider themselves great lords of noble parentage, and would be ready to die rather than submit to the new laws, nor would dissensions and wars be wanting, the discontent being so great.”

When Contreras said this, the Viceroy replied: “If on all sides the evil is preferred to the good, and tyranny comes before loyalty, and if the King has no more part in these realms than those who are here like to give him, I can believe that what you say is correct. But if you say that his Majesty’s intention is not altered, how is it that they do not wish to comply with the royal order? You know very well the poverty under which our fathers came to discover this empire. It is not so many years since Columbus sailed from Spain, and avarice has grown rapidly among those who have settled here. To gain riches they have done many evil things, almost totally ruining the provinces. If these laws had not been enacted, in ten years there would be nothing left but ruins, and the rivers and mountains. Let no one think that ministers of the King will be guided by the appetites of those here, nor be surprised if I behead them as traitors.” Saying this the Viceroy retired into his chamber: and the Governor Rodrigo de Contreras departed.

Soon afterwards the Licentiate Zarate, regretting that the Viceroy should have said that he would soon enforce the new laws, and not wishing to speak of a thing which was so hateful to all, entered where the Viceroy was. He then said that, hearing what was talked about concerning the new laws, and understanding that they were to be enforced, he thought it would be proper not to allude to the subject; rather keep it at the bottom of a box until the land of Peru was reached, and it was ascertained whether the laws could be conveniently promulgated. To this, and to what the Judges Cepeda, Alvarez and Tejada said, the Viceroy replied that he would do what he thought proper. As to what the accountant Juan de Caceres affirmed, that, from the news he had received from people in Peru, he gathered that if the ordinances were at once enforced, the people would take up arms rather than obey, the Viceroy told him harshly that if he was not a servant of the King he would order him to be hanged.

These and some other things having happened, the Viceroy hurried his preparations to go on to Peru, while the Judges continued to talk about the ordinances, advising that before they were promulgated, time should be given for the court of justice to be formed, so that then the orders of his Majesty might be carried out, after mature deliberation. But the Viceroy thought little of their advice; replying that his duty was to obey his orders, and for doing so he alone sufficed. So the want of confidence between him and the Judges was increased.

CHAPTER III

How Francisco de Carbajal arrived at the city of the Kings with a great desire to return to Spain, and how the Viceroy embarked at Panama for Peru.

Francisco de Carbajal, desiring to leave the kingdom, had obtained the consent of the Governor Vaca de Castro and of the municipality of Cuzco, and, with the help they gave him, he set out from that city with all the money he could collect, wishing to return to Spain and obtain some rest. Antonio de Altamirano and Lope de Mendoza and many others would have lost nothing by his departure[7]. But it was already decreed by God, for our very great sins, that this man should become a cruel scourge, as the narrative will presently give you to understand. Leaving the city of Cuzco, Carbajal travelled until he reached the city of the Kings, and dismounted at the house of the Treasurer Antonio Riquelme. The Treasurer feared that he had come to kill him by order of Vaca de Castro, by reason of the enmity between them; so next day, by all the cunning ways he could think of, he sought how to get rid of such a guest. But Francisco Carbajal was very tiresome and, seeing what the Treasurer wanted, he continued to lodge in his house. At the end of some days after his arrival at the city of the Kings, he gave the letters he brought from Vaca de Castro to the members of the municipality, touching his voyage to Spain. The letters represented the advantages the kingdom would derive from his departure, because his Majesty, through him, would be well informed of the affairs of Peru, and of the injury that would be done to the conquerors, if the new laws were enforced in their entirety. Vaca de Castro wrote in the same way, and requested that Carbajal should be empowered to negotiate in Spain, in the interests of Peru. The members of the municipality, having read the letter of Vaca de Castro, and heard what Francis Carbajal had to say, gave an evasive answer. As the Governor, by his letter, announced that he would shortly arrive at the city of the Kings, they told Carbajal that he should wait until Vaca de Castro came, as he would give orders as Governor for the King. They gave this answer at an official meeting in the municipal building. Carbajal thought that he was looked upon by them as an unimportant person to whom they could give a frivolous answer. He came out of the building with a feeling of having been insulted; while those within were laughing, and making a joke of it. For they thought that when Vaca de Castro did come to the city of the Kings the country would already be under the new Viceroy, who would not molest them for not having cared to send Carbajal to Spain[8].

At this time the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela was very anxious to leave Tierra Firme and, embarking on the South Sea, to navigate in haste to the coast of Peru. He desired to establish the court of justice in the city of the Kings with as little delay as possible, considering that it would be easy to enforce the ordinances. He was very angry, and was with difficulty induced to listen, if any one expressed a different opinion.

Leaving the Judges at Panama, and taking with him the royal seal, he embarked at the city of Panama on the 10th of February of the same year, and arrived at the port of Tumbez in nine days. This was the quickest voyage that had ever been made. From Tumbez he wrote his letters to the city of San Francisco del Quito, to Puerto Viejo, and to Guayaquil, to announce his arrival in the kingdom and the duty with which he was charged by order of the Emperor our Lord. He added that his desire was to do good to all, and to administer justice; that for this he had come, and that when he arrived at the city of the Kings he would establish a royal court of justice and chancellory where those would receive justice who sought for it. He concluded with the announcement that, although he sent to tell them this, he also came with certain ordinances for the new government and respecting the treatment of the Indians which might appear heavy and causes for anger. Hitherto justice had been administered as between friends. They murmured at the announcement of the Viceroy, and when the news of his arrival reached them, they were not a little annoyed, so that the Viceroy’s name was abhorred by most, while all, from fear of the new rules, thought of no other thing than to extort as much gold as possible from the Indians and their chiefs.

CHAPTER IV

How the Governor Vaca de Castro wrote from the city of Cuzco to the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro, and touching his departure from Cuzco.

The tumults and disturbances, caused by the news of the ordinances in Cuzco, were continued. It is even said that Hernando Bachicao, Juan Velez de Guevara, Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo, Cermeño and others spoke to Vaca de Castro saying that he was the Royal Governor, that he should continue in his command, and that all would serve and obey him.

Vaca de Castro answered in a way which showed that he understood how changeable were the wills of men in Peru, and how inconstant. To gain their ends they are ready to put any one at the head, leaving him in the lurch if he failed. In this Vaca de Castro was not deceived. For those who move in seditions and in wars coloured by justifications, although they were accomplices in the demands of their leader, when the time of failure comes, they sally forth, swearing with great oaths that they were forced to join the tyrant.

Understanding this Vaca de Castro answered that he had taken charge of the province by order of the King, and that he would now do no other thing than proceed to the city of the Kings to wait upon him whom the King had appointed as his Viceroy. Saying this, he ordered the Secretary, Pero Lopez[9], to prepare the letters and despatches, as he desired to set out from Cuzco without delay.

Some wish to say, and even men who were present have assured me, that the Governor Vaca de Castro wrote to Gonzalo Pizarro to come with all speed and take up the appointment of Procurator and Defender of the kingdom while he, Vaca de Castro, after marrying one of Pizarro’s daughters, would go to Spain and negotiate for his appointment to the government of New Toledo, and other things, and urging him to proceed in the matter.

I, being in the city of the Kings, was told by Don Antonio de Ribera that among the letters which Gonzalo Pizarro had there—and I remember that they were so numerous that three secretaries, continually reading to the President La Gasca, did not finish in four days—was one from Vaca de Castro to him, to which he answered that many had written to incite him to come and lead them, but that he would not do so. On the contrary, he would remain in his house, for his Majesty had sent his Viceroy who had entered the country, and that he would do what the royal service required. He wrote other things which were not intended to be so evil as some have wished to make out. It may well be that both letters were written by him.

After a few days Vaca de Castro set out from Cuzco, accompanied by Caspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo[10], Antonio de Quiñones, Diego Maldonado[11], the Licentiate Carbajal[12], Antonio de Altamirano[13], Gaspar Gil, Pedro de los Rios, Hernando Bachicao[14] and other principal people and some soldiers. With these he began the journey to the city of the Kings.

CHAPTER V

How the Viceroy departed from Tumbez for the city of San Miguel, beginning to enforce the ordinances, which aroused a strong feeling in Peru.

The Viceroy Blasco Nuñez de Vela arrived at Tumbez accompanied by Francisco Velasquez Vela Nuñez his brother, and the Captain Diego Alvarez de Cueto his brother-in-law, with other knights, and his servants. He was intent on enforcing the new laws. He sent out his orders before he had been received as Viceroy, commanding all to receive him as such, for in that way His Majesty would be best served. He ordered that no extra tribute should be taken from the Indians, and that no force or ill treatment should be used in dealing with them. These and other orders were given which, although just, should have been carried out with much order and prudence, and not with too much severity nor in such haste. Nevertheless they did not give sufficient cause to justify those in Peru in their revolt.

In Tumbez Diego Alvarez de Cueto and others who came with him, as well as some residing in Peru, advised that the new laws should not then be enforced, but that the Royal Court of Justice should first be established, and the kingdom be in the Viceroy’s power. But the Viceroy would never see things in that light. From this it seems to me that God, by reason of the grave sins of those who lived in Peru, was served that affairs should be guided in this way, that afterwards the sinners might be chastised with His mighty justice. For certainly their pride and their immorality in openly sinning, merited punishment from God’s hand. The gravity of such great sins deserved the calamities and excessive hardships which came upon them. The Viceroy answered, as he always did, that he must obey the King’s orders even if it should cost him his life.

He was fifteen days in Tumbez arranging these matters, at the end of which time he determined to set out for the city of San Miguel[15]. He accomplished the journey and was publicly well received, but really, at the bottom of their hearts, every one was sorry to see him, because he brought the new laws. Finally he was received as Viceroy, and at once began to enforce the ordinances. He ordered a copy to be made of the grants of Indians within the boundaries of San Miguel, asking the Caciques how many they had given, and the Encomenderos how many they had received, according to which he assessed the tribute which had to be paid. He then gave the Indians to understand that his Majesty ordered that they were to be free, and to be treated as his vassals.

The members of the municipality of that city, seeing how the Viceroy enforced the ordinances, entreated him not to do so at once, but to give time for the Emperor to be informed generally of the state of the kingdom that, in consideration of the great service performed for his Majesty, he might deign to show mercy and not to insist on the ordinances being enforced in their entirety. Although they supplicated in great sorrow, holding up their right hand in testimony that they would always serve the King with loyalty, their prayers availed nothing, nor the protests and representations they made. Further he presently superseded Diego Palomino because he had been Lieutenant to the Governor, and he gave complete liberty to the Indians, telling them not to give anything to the Spaniards unless they paid for it first, and to use weights and measures in their dealings.

News came to Truxillo and the city of the Kings of all these proceedings, with much exaggeration. Besides the people who were coming by land, a ship commanded by Juan Vazquez de Avila, who was her master, arrived at Callao, the port of the city of the Kings. The master said that he had landed the Viceroy at Tumbez. On the receipt of this news there was a great tumult in the city, hearing what had passed where the Viceroy was, and anticipating the enforcing of the ordinances. The magistrates and officials assembled and consulted respecting the approach of the Viceroy, and the trouble throughout the kingdom, to decide what course to take. After the discussion they decided that some learned persons of authority should go to meet the Viceroy and give him a welcome, informing him of what was happening, and how all, with bosoms on the ground, would do what their Lord and King commanded.

CHAPTER VI

How some knights set out from the city of the Kings to meet the Viceroy, and of his departure from San Miguel for Truxillo.

The members of the municipality of the city of the Kings having determined to send persons to meet the Viceroy, they appointed the Factor Yllan Suarez de Carbajal[16], the Captain Diego de Aguero[17], both Magistrates, and Juan de Barbaran Procurator of the city. With them there went Pablo de Meneses[18], Lorenzo de Estopiñam, Sebastian de Coca, Hernando de Vargas, Rodrigo Nuñez de Prado and others. Among them was the Friar Esidro of the order of Dominicans, who went by order of the most reverend Don Jeronimo de Loaysa, Bishop of the city of the Kings.

Leaving those I have mentioned to proceed on their journey, we will return to Blasco Nuñez who, after he had done what has been related in the city of San Miguel and its dependencies, determined to proceed to Truxillo, and accordingly he set out accompanied by his followers.

The Factor, with those who went with him from the city of the Kings, travelled on until they came to some buildings called “Las Perdrices[19]” ten leagues from that city; intending to wait there until they met the Viceroy. Presently a Spaniard arrived in great haste and came to them. His name was Ochoa, and he said that he came with despatches from the Viceroy to the municipality of the city of the Kings and to Vaca de Castro. This was true, for the Viceroy had sent him in advance. The Factor Yllan Suarez de Carbajal, the Captain Diego de Aguero, as Magistrates, and Juan de Barbaran as Procurator opened the parcel. They found in it a copy of the appointment which his Majesty gave to Blasco Nuñez as Viceroy, and a letter for Vaca de Castro, ordering him no longer to exercise the functions of Governor, and to come to the city of the Kings. For the municipality of the city of the Kings there was another letter, ordering the members to receive Blasco Nuñez as Viceroy, by virtue of the order he sent, and no longer to look upon Vaca de Castro as Governor. The report was that this Viceroy, from the time he entered the kingdom, held the affairs of Vaca de Castro as odious, and that he favoured those who had taken the side of Don Diego de Almagro. These are vulgar rumours, and I do not know how much truth there is in them[20].

These despatches having been seen by the Factor and the others, they were delighted at the hostility shown in them to Vaca de Castro, and they decided that Juan de Barbaran, as Procurator, should go back with the news. He returned in all haste to the city of the Kings and, having arrived, he rushed through the streets as if the land had rebelled against the service of the King, shouting—“Liberty! the Lord Viceroy is coming, see here are his despatches.” On hearing this there entered the town hall the Treasurer Alonso Riquelme, the Overseer Garcia de Saucedo, Juan de Leon, Francisco Ampuero, Nicolas de Ribera the lad, Alonso Palomino, Nicolas de Ribera the elder, being Magistrates.

The royal provision of his Majesty ordered that, by its authority, Blasco Nuñez should be received as Viceroy. But the document was merely a copy, by which Blasco Nuñez could not then be received as Viceroy. They met three times without being able to decide. At last, more on account of the enmity to Vaca de Castro than for any other reason it was resolved that the Viceroy should be received in the city in accordance with the order. When they were in session they sent for the Licentiate Esquivel, a native of the city of Badajos, who, wishing to further the service of the Emperor, gave his vote that they should receive Blasco Nuñez as their Viceroy. This being done the Licentiate proceeded to Truxillo to join the Viceroy and offer his services. He sent a statement of these proceedings to Vaca de Castro, with the letter of the Viceroy. The Licentiate de la Gama[21], who was the lieutenant of Esquivel, notwithstanding that the Viceroy had written to him in a friendly way, left the city to meet Vaca de Castro, leaving the Magistrates in charge. They gave the rod of office to Juan de Barbaran, and made public the appointment of the Viceroy, which is as follows:

“Don Carlos by divine clemency Emperor, always august, King of Germany; Doña Juana his mother, and the same Don Carlos, by the same grace Kings of Castille, of Aragon, of Leon, of the Sicilies, of Jerusalem, of Navarre, of Granada, of Toledo, of Valencia, of Galicia, of Majorca, of Seville, of Sardinia, of Cordova, of Corsica, of Murcia, of Jaen, of the Algarves, of Algesiras, of Gibraltar, of the Canary Isles, and the Indies and Tierra Firme of the Ocean Sea; Count of Barcelona, Lord of Vizcaya and Molina, Duke of Athens and Neopatria, Count of Flanders and of Tyrol. We, seeing that it will be for the furtherance of our service and for the good of our province of New Castille called Peru, have seen fit to nominate a person who in our name and as our Viceroy will govern and provide for all things appertaining to God our Lord, and to the increase of our Holy Catholic Faith, and to the instruction and conversion of the natives of that land; and also provide for all things conducive to the maintenance, peopling, and securing the welfare of the said New Castille and its provinces; for this purpose, confiding in you Blasco Nuñez Vela, and because we believe that our service will be furthered and the good of the said province of New Castille, and that you will discharge the said office of our Viceroy and Governor with that prudence and fidelity we expect from you, we, by these presents, nominate you our Viceroy and Governor of the said New Castille and its dependencies during our good pleasure. As such Viceroy and Governor, both in all that appertains to the instruction and conversion of the said Indians to our Holy Catholic Faith, and in the increase of population and prosperity of the said land, you are to act as may be convenient. By this letter we order the Licentiate Vaca de Castro our present Governor of the said province, our President and Judges of the Royal Court we have ordered to be established in our city of the Kings, our Captain Generals and Captains of the said land, all Councillors, Justices, Magistrates, Knights, Esquires, Officers, and Citizens in all our cities, towns, and villages in the said New Castille, who are now or shall hereafter be settled there, and each one of them, without any delay and without further waiting for any other letter or command, to receive and hold as our Viceroy and Governor of the said New Castille, called Peru and its dependencies, and to freely consent that you shall occupy and use those appointments during our royal pleasure, in all things, and each one of them, that shall be for the good of our service and good government, and all, while they hold their offices, shall obey and comply with your orders while you shall give all favour and help that they may seek for, and that may be necessary, and in all things they shall obey you, and cause no obstruction to your orders. We give you power to use and exercise authority over them. It is also our good pleasure that if you the said Blasco Nuñez Vela are hindered in the furtherance of our service, or in the execution of our justice, you are empowered to banish any person who is now or may be hereafter in the said province of New Castille or its dependencies. We further order that you shall receive each year, for your two offices of Viceroy and Governor of the said land, 5000 ducats counted from the day you make sail from the port of San Lucar de Barrameda to proceed on your voyage to our said province of Peru, and we order our officers of the said province that they give and pay your due in the manner in use in the said land, receiving your acknowledgment. Given in the town of Madrid on the 1st day of March 1543 I the King.”

CHAPTER VII

How the Governor Vaca de Castro came from Cuzco, and what happened to the Factor Illan Suarez and the others who went to meet the Viceroy.

The Governor Vaca de Castro set out from the city of Cuzco to proceed to the city of the Kings, with the intention of seeing the Viceroy, notwithstanding that many of his friends advised him to go to the port of Quilca, where he could embark in a ship without seeing the Viceroy, and sail away to Tierra Firme. But he declined to take that course, and started from Cuzco with some troops to guard his person, with arms and artillery. There are some who say that he did this that he might supplicate for the good estate of the kingdom with them. Others affirm, and this is certain, that he took the artillery because he would not leave it in Cuzco, foreseeing what might happen. For the clouds had always originated in Cuzco to spread over all parts. He, therefore, thought it prudent to take away the artillery and arms, as he did.

Leaving Cuzco he travelled onwards until he reached the city of Guamanga, where some other persons had also arrived. Thence he went on to the valley of Xauxa where he was met by the Licentiate de la Gama, who told him all that had passed. After having discussed the ordinances with some of his friends, and what was said of the Viceroy, he determined to send his Secretary, Pero Lopez, to meet the Viceroy and convey to him a welcome on his arrival, assuring him that he would serve him in all things, seeing that he came in the name of the King our Lord. Eventually he sent his servant Pero Lopez who started on his journey.

When the municipality of the city of the Kings knew that Vaca de Castro was coming accompanied by a large number of people, they wrote to him to leave his arms and his following, and to enter the city of the Kings privately, without appearing as Governor of the kingdom, for he no longer held that office, and that when he came they would guard his honour as a Member of the Royal Council and as having been their Governor and Captain General.

After Juan de Barbaran had returned to the city of the Kings, the Factor Yllan Suarez de Carbajal, the Captain Diego de Aguero and the others journeyed onwards towards the city of Truxillo. Travelling on Thursday and Good Friday they arrived at a town of Indians called Huara, which is 18 leagues from the city of the Kings. Late on Friday they continued their journey to another town called La Barranca, and on Saturday before Easter of 1544 they came up with one Ruiloba[22] who was coming as a messenger from the Governor Vaca de Castro. His coming caused no small perturbation for, when asked whether he had seen the Viceroy, he replied that he remained near Truxillo where he was liberating Indians; and that at San Miguel he had left the Lieutenant Palomino and others without any Indians, saying that he was going to do the same in all parts, including the officials of the royal treasury. After giving this news Pero Lopez went on to inform Vaca de Castro. The Factor Illan Suarez, tired with the journey and enraged at the news, was leaning against a pillar in his lodging when Captain Diego de Aguero said in a loud voice: “I do not care to wait until we meet the Viceroy. If he wants to take away my Indians let him do so at once, my son will not be in want of food, for he has property on which he can live.” Saying this he set out for Truxillo, accompanied by Rodrigo Nuñez a citizen of Huanuco who was also at enmity with Vaca de Castro for having taken away his Indians because he had been a follower of Diego de Almagro the lad.

Meanwhile the Viceroy had departed from the city of San Miguel accompanied by settlers and soldiers, giving ear to anything evil that was said to him against Vaca de Castro. For from the time of his arrival in Peru he allied himself with the Almagro faction, and they spoke without any restraint against Vaca de Castro.

The ancient name of San Miguel is Piura, of Truxillo Chimu, and of the city of the Kings, Lima. The reader will remember this, for, forgetting uniformity, I may sometimes put one name and sometimes the other.

The Viceroy travelled by the Royal Road of the Coast, gazing on the vast deserts and the ruined edifices. He was told that they were once densely peopled, and he felt regret, saying that the numbers of these people had been so diminished through bad government. He admired the great and very ancient edifices which were built along the road, with such lavish care. In the valleys where some Indians remained, he made the lords and caciques to understand that the people were vassals of the King of Spain, that in future they were free, that their tribute would be moderate, as well as the calls upon them for provisions and necessaries. If more was wanted they must be paid for it. Arriving at Truxillo he had a grand reception, though with mournful and pensive countenances. The citizens received the ordinances as a sign of war bringing ruin and a sad look-out, coming with words of peace but bringing war. Yet the magistrates came out dressed in purple, and Blasco Nuñez Vela was received as Viceroy in obedience to his Majesty’s command.

The Factor Illan Suarez de Carbajal and the other knights went back to Lima, and they say that the Factor left a motto at La Barranca which said—“Each man knows what he has, and does not give up his property to another. If he does he may be a laughing stock, but it will cost him who takes it his life.” Others say that this motto was left there by Francisco del Solar, a citizen of Lima, and this may be considered a certainty[23].

CHAPTER VIII

How the Governor Cristobal Vaca de Castro saw the letter of the Viceroy, and how he was received at Lima having dismissed his followers and sent the artillery to the city of Guamanga.

It will cause great astonishment to hear the events of this narrative as they unfold themselves, for many were the troubles that arose in these kingdoms. Not only the hills and chains of mountains but also the rivers and streams are full of gold and silver, so that a country with such riches could not remain at peace. Most of those who had settled in it gilded their iniquities with great treasons, throwing the blame on the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro. Numerous were the letters that he received from all parts, persuading him to come forth from where he was, as all would join him, and assist him with their persons and their properties. Some have wanted to throw the blame on those of Cuzco but they were those who were least culpable, as further on I will clearly show.

The news of the arrival of the Viceroy in the kingdom, and his letter having been received, Vaca de Castro was much disturbed in his mind, as well from the things that his servant Ruy Lopez had told him, as from the way he had been received. He would wish, according to what they said, to enter Lima at the time of the reception, and make a petition respecting the ordinances. He desired that his Secretary Pero Lopez should see the Viceroy shortly, that he might be informed of all that had been done. But he was perplexed as to what he should do, being surrounded on all sides by anxious cares which greatly fatigue generous minds. It is needful at first to consider what steps to take with much prudence. For afterwards, if a mistake has been made, it is said to be the fault of those who have not looked in advance, whereas if all goes well they are regarded as prudent. In great affairs determination is more needed than counsel. For when murmurs and discontents are converted into wars it is better to follow a daring soldier than a noted scholar, for they say that to gild a mistake they make a hundred.

Vaca de Castro considered that if he entered Lima accompanied by artillery, arms, and arquebuses it would look bad and give rise to a doubt of his loyalty; while if he entered privately the Viceroy might ill use him, without regarding what was due to his position, nor considering his services to the King, for it was notorious that the Viceroy was coming with a prejudice against him. Notwithstanding these dangers Vaca de Castro dismissed his followers and ordered the artillery to be taken to Guamanga. At Guadachevi, 18 leagues from Lima, where he received the news, he left the pikes and other arms.

The Licentiate, Benito Suarez de Carbajal[24], was with Vaca de Castro, and a letter came to him from his brother the Factor, to let him know that the Viceroy would deprive him of his Indians, as he had treated all others who had been lieutenants, or officials. He was advised, on receipt of the letter, to return to where he held the grant of Indians, collect all the money he could, and to go to Spain, leaving the Indians in trust to Rodrigo de Carbajal, Jeronimo de Carbajal, and Juan Vazquez de Tapia. The Licentiate Carbajal, having received this letter, read it publicly, and arranged the transfer with Vaca de Castro, although he was no longer Governor. He then departed to do what the Factor advised. This was one reason why the Viceroy was offended with the Factor, for he was informed of the letter he had written, by Antonio and Juan de Leon, when they went out to receive him.

After he had dismissed his people, Vaca de Castro went on to Lima with very few attendants without trying, by any intrigues, to form new friendships.

CHAPTER IX

How the Governor Vaca de Castro entered Lima, and what happened.

We cannot deny that Vaca de Castro was a distinguished statesman and, barring his avarice, he truly governed the kingdom with prudence. Although he had dismissed his forces, and only came accompanied by some knights who were citizens of Cuzco, he consulted with them as to the way in which he should enter the city. He knew that the municipality had acknowledged the Viceroy only on the strength of the copy of a despatch, and he desired they themselves should receive his resignation, so that he might answer the Viceroy. He sent to the Licentiate de la Gama, who had been his lieutenant, to precede him in entering Lima, to return his rod of office, writing very friendly letters to numerous persons, full of hopes, while, to some who had complaints against him, he sent promises. Vaca de Castro never left off sending such missives until he entered the city. Whether these despatches were written then or afterwards he and his clerks alone know, for I cannot make out, though I know what passed, nor will the reader fail to understand. We know that Vaca de Castro parted with many Indians on this road, belonging to himself or to the estate of the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro.

The Licentiate de la Gama had to retain the staff of lieutenant, because when Juan de Barbaran came with the despatches, he never liked to enter the municipal building, nor did he find it at the reception of the Viceroy.

O my God! how many deaths, robberies, insults, disgraces, destruction of natives were caused by the jealousies of these men who sought to secure commands. O that thy divine goodness had left Vaca de Castro among the snows of Pariacaca never to appear again, that the Viceroy had fallen so ill at Truxillo, where he then was, that it might have been his end, instead of finding it with disgrace in Quito, and that another pit had opened for Gonzalo Pizarro and Carbajal, like the one at Rome. Wanting these leaders the miserable country might not have suffered such evils, and the sorrowful fields of Salinas and Chupas might have sufficed. The sins of these men were so enormous, and the charity among them so minute, that it pleased God that they should meet with great calamities.

The Licentiate de la Gama set out for the city of Lima in advance of Vaca de Castro, to know what was wrong with the Treasurer Alonso Riquelme[25], and why he and the other magistrates had accepted the Viceroy simply on the strength of a copy of the appointment. He conversed with Lorenzo de Estopiñan, who had come out to give him information, and to see if it could be arranged to give him some Indians. For he was a friend of the Treasurer, and it might be negotiated that he should have better Indians than those he had dismissed. Estopiñan returned to Lima, but the reply of the Treasurer was that he no longer had any friendship for Vaca de Castro who had dismissed the Indians, and that if he came he would have his head cut off. This Treasurer was very wise and cautious, keeping clear of being committed to any side, and he knew afterwards how to remain outside.

The Licentiate de la Gama, when he arrived at Lima, went to the house of the Treasurer Riquelme and persuaded him, as one of the principal citizens, to call a meeting of the officials, adding that he would return the rod of lieutenant, for when he had left the city he had not surrendered it with the required customs and solemnities. Besides the Viceroy had written to say that he would be in the city and that they should receive him as his Majesty had ordered. Though this was true, and the Viceroy had so written, the intention of the Licentiate de la Gama was no other than that he should again take his place in the municipality, and that when Vaca de Castro arrived he should again take up the government and be governor. Having been lieutenant to former governors his Indians would be taken from him, and he could not negotiate anything.

Vaca de Castro continued his journey until he came to the city of Lima. Although his arrival was known, there was no great reception, and no one came out to meet him except a few of his friends and some servants. With these he entered the city and went to the house of the Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa. There the citizens came to visit him, and talk over the proceedings of the Viceroy and the rigour of the new laws.

CHAPTER X

Of the great disturbances in the city of Arequipa when tidings came respecting the new laws, and how Francisco de Carbajal departed from Lima.

When Alonso Palomino and Antonio de Ribera came to the city of Cuzco with the news of the ordinances, the Governor Vaca de Castro sent one Tomas Vasquez, with all the haste he could make to the city of Arequipa with a letter. It desired the citizens not to be disturbed, and to make no trouble whatever when they should hear the news about the Viceroy and the ordinances because, when his Majesty was informed that it would not be for the good of his service if they were enforced, he would very shortly amend them. It ended by telling them to send representatives to Lima to state their grievance. Tomas Vasquez set out from Cuzco and arrived at the end of seven days, finding the principal citizens in the church. After they had read the letter Vasquez showed them a copy of the ordinances. When their provisions were understood there was a great disturbance, and the bells were rung as if it were a signal for war. A citizen of Arequipa named Miguel Cornejo took the ordinances in his hand, went up into the pulpit where the preachers deliver their sermons, and when all the people had assembled at the sound of the bell, he began to read the new laws before them all. When he came to the place where the King ordered that, when the Encomenderos died, all their grants were to revert to the crown, there arose great shouts of dissent, all declaring that they would die rather than allow it to be enforced, and they said the same with regard to all the other laws. Among those who were there the tumult was as great as it had been at Lima, the people going about sullenly, and discussing it one with another, saying that they were all disinherited and ruined after having, with so much labour and fatigue, discovered the province, and that they were ill paid for it. The Captain Alonso de Caceres procured that the tumult should cease, as such words could do them no good. So leaving this we come to the arrival of Carbajal.

Francisco de Carbajal wished to return to Spain knowing, from his experience in war, that there must be disturbances in all the provinces on the arrival of the Viceroy. He tried hard to induce the municipality of Lima to let him go, but he could not attain his desire, because the authorities did not wish any ship to leave the port until the Viceroy should come. Seeing that there was little chance of attaining his end, he determined to go to the city of Arequipa, believing that he might find a ship in the port of Quilca, on board of which he might take a passage. He therefore departed from Lima in haste, with all the money he possessed, divining the great calamity that was threatening the country. For it pleased God that Carbajal should not leave the country but that he should be the scourge for the punishment of many, as he was, for so many perished by his order that it causes grief to think of it.

CHAPTER XI

Of the events in the city of Lima after the arrival of the Licentiate Cristobal Vaca de Castro, and of what the Viceroy did in Truxillo.

Now we should relate the departure of Gonzalo Pizarro from Charcas, but it will be convenient first to relate what happened in Lima on the arrival of the Licentiate Vaca de Castro. He was lodged in the house of the Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa[26]. News was always coming to Lima of the proceedings of the Viceroy in the city of San Miguel and more recently in Truxillo, with the object of enforcing the ordinances. The members of the municipality now very much regretted that they had accepted the Viceroy before he arrived at Lima and established the court of justice, without agreement with the judges, and they said one to another that a mistake had been made in acknowledging him before he had entered the city in person; for his Majesty had not ordered that he should be received simply on the strength of copies, without the original documents. It was also said that they should have waited until the arrival of Vaca de Castro, who was the actual governor of the kingdom. They say that Vaca de Castro spoke to the magistrates of the city, saying that no blame attached to those who brought arms from Cuzco, for it was only done so as to know whether the ordinances would come, so as to cause injury to all. Another object was that, in the absence of arms, there might be no rising at Cuzco and in the provinces beyond, for it is known that the people of Peru do not lightly suffer wrong. His people, knowing his wishes, and without considering their past dignities and offices, had, with patience and good will, laid down their arms and dismissed the troops, and the governor had entered the city with few attendants and privately, as every one had seen. In all this he had done what seemed most convenient for the service of the King our Lord.

When the citizens and magistrates heard these words they wanted Vaca de Castro to resume the government of the province and, being governor, that he would see to the common good, and that his Majesty might be informed that it was not for the good of his service that the new laws should be enforced. In order to conclude this measure, they met in their assemblies, requesting Vaca de Castro that he would be present, and agree to what they desired. They represented that he should resume the government. Vaca de Castro, thinking more of his position than of his desire, replied with grave words. He said that they should hold their official meeting where he was, for it was not reasonable that he should go to them in person. Then various messengers were sent between them Vaca de Castro not wishing to go to them and they not wishing to go to him, both being suspicious of each other, for in times past they had always opposed him. The result of these negotiations was that the municipality ordered certain propositions to be drawn up for Vaca de Castro to sign, but as all this was done secretly the whole intention is not known.

The Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa intervened in this business and induced Alonso Riquelme the Treasurer and Illan Suarez the Factor to make friends with Vaca de Castro. When the documents were ready the Treasurer gave them to Lorenzo de Estopiñan to take them to Vaca de Castro for signature. After Vaca de Castro had read them, he said that he would not sign any such thing, for that they needed both omissions and additions. There passed negotiations between the municipality and Vaca de Castro, but it ended in their not being able to agree to anything. There is nothing more to be said about Vaca de Castro at present, for they did not arrange anything they wanted with him. He remained at Lima and they even say that he showed no anxiety about the things that were said of the Viceroy.

Meanwhile the Viceroy was resting at Truxillo occupying himself with such trifling things that, when the court of justice was established, they could have been settled by a simple order to an alguazil. All those whose duty it is to rule kingdoms, and govern provinces, and do so without guidance are apt to think that they have achieved many things. If the Viceroy had quickly left the suburbs, and had entered the cities prudently, all the scandals and serious injuries he caused would not have happened, and they were not few. All he did in Truxillo was to let the Indians know what he had ordered and done at San Miguel. He took away the Indians granted to the Captain Diego de Mora[27] because he was lieutenant of the governor, and treated Alonso Holguin in the same way because he had formerly held that office. In this city of Truxillo there were the Viceroy’s brother Francisco Velasquez Vela Nuñez, a very noble and virtuous knight, and his brother-in-law Diego Alvarez de Cueto, a very prudent and steady adviser. Both these knights always gave good advice to the Viceroy, as well as the others who had accompanied him from Tumbez.

In the city of Lima Hernando Bachicao, Diego Maldonado, Gaspar Rodriguez, Pedro de los Rios and others, when they understood what was taking place in Truxillo, and how the Viceroy was enforcing the new laws, discussed many things among themselves, and finally resolved to go to Cuzco before the Viceroy arrived at Lima, to see what was going to be done, touching these ordinances.

CHAPTER XII

How letters were sent to Gonzalo Pizarro from many persons, being in Charcas, brought by Bustillo, urging him to come as Procurator of the kingdom.

The Captain Gonzalo Pizarro had departed from the city of Cuzco, and had gone to the town of Plata which is in the region of Charcas, where he possessed a very productive grant of Indians. He was at a place called Chaqui, arranging to work the silver mines of Potosi which had lately been discovered. There came to him a servant of the Comendador Hernando Pizarro, named Bustillo, sent to him by Antonio de Ribera, Alonso Palomino, Villacorta, and many others, with letters. Luis de Almao, a servant of Gonzalo Pizarro, also told me that Vaca de Castro wrote to his master advising him to remain quiet although things were looking bad with regard to the ordinances, for his Majesty would be informed of the truth, and would order what would be best for his service.

But the letters of Don Antonio, of Palomino, of Villacorta, of Alonso de Toro and others urged him to come forward promptly and relieve them from so great an evil as that which was impending. They also sent him the ordinances. The messengers arrived when Pizarro was hunting eight leagues away, at a place called Palcocon, his servants being quite unprepared for such a thing. When Bustillo arrived at the town, he found Luis de Almao and asked him to go to where Gonzalo Pizarro was. Almao replied that he would go with all speed, for he surmised that they would cut off his head. He reached the place at the second vigil, and Gonzalo Pizarro called for a light, asking who came there in such haste? Almao answered: “Arise, for Bustillo has come bringing news and letters for you, for they want to cut off your head.” Thinking that he spoke of Vaca de Castro, Gonzalo Pizarro replied: “I will cut off his first, I swear by our Lady.” Then he got out of bed without asking any more questions and, before the dawn appeared, he galloped off to the town of Chaqui, where he found the messenger. Taking the despatches he was reading them all that day, until midnight; and when he knew the provisions of the new laws he was much agitated. Without finishing their perusal he went out, saying to those who were with him that such bad news had arrived that neither they would understand it, nor did he know how to tell them. Saying this he brought out the letters and the ordinances that they might read them. He then despatched Juan Ramirez to the city of Arequipa, that certain money might be detained which he had previously sent for transmission to Spain. I know not whether his tears were feigned or not, for those who intend to rebel and become tyrants deceive those who follow them in many ways. After a few days Gonzalo Pizarro went to the mines of Porco, where he collected all the money he could.

CHAPTER XIII

Of what happened in the town of Plata, and of the Procurators who set out to go to Lima.

After the Governor Vaca de Castro had defeated Don Diego de Almagro at Chupas, he appointed Luis de Ribera as his lieutenant-governor of the town of Plata. He was an important knight, native of the city of Seville. At a time when the town was quiet and peaceful, without any sign of disturbance, the news of the ordinances sent by his Majesty the King arrived, and of the arrival of Blasco Nuñez as Viceroy. Besides the news, there came letters from the municipality of Cuzco, and from Vaca de Castro corroborating it, and advising that Procurators should be sent so that, with others from all parts of the kingdom, they might protest against the enforcement of the new laws.

The news did not fail to cause much agitation in the minds of the people, as it had done in other parts where it had been received. When the first tumult was over there was a meeting consisting of Luis de Ribera, Diego Centeno, Antonio Alvarez, all three Alcaldes, and Lope de Mendieta, Francisco de Retamoso, and Francisco de Tapia, perpetual magistrates. They consulted in what manner they should receive these laws and ordinances. After having thought well over it they came to the conclusion that, as the King had decreed the ordinances, it would not be proper to resist to the point of rebellion, but to obey and, as humble vassals, pray that either some or all the ordinances might be suspended. With this object they would send persons from their town, who, with the voice of the people, would entreat the Viceroy not to enforce the laws until his Majesty had been informed of the truth, when he would order what would be most conducive to his service. Having considered who should be their procurators, they nominated Diego Centeno[28] the Alcalde and Pedro Alonso de Hinojosa[29], a magistrate who was also in the town. They gave them full powers to concert with the procurators who might come from other cities and towns the course to be taken in their petition, but all was to be done with great humility. Luis de Ribera spoke graciously to all the townspeople, assuring them that they need not trouble themselves about the ordinances, as his Majesty would be served by their revocation. Diego Centeno and Pedro de Hinojosa set out from the town to go to the city of Lima, Hinojosa having first seen Gonzalo Pizarro at Chaqui.

CHAPTER XIV

Of other things that were done by the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro, and how many letters came to him from all parts.

The Captain Gonzalo Pizarro was much agitated by what the people said, and, being a man of little forethought, he did not calculate on future developments. At one time he thought he would remain in his house and not show the head of the wolf to the people as the saying is. Afterwards, mindful that his affairs were prospering, he would refuse to put himself within the lasso. At other times he thought it would show a want of valour to consider only his own position, when the eyes of all were turned to him, and felt that they would not be so ungrateful as not to think of his welfare, if he entered upon the business. He also considered that he had undertaken the discovery of Canela, whence he had come out unsuccessful and so seriously embarrassed that $50,000 would not pay his debts. It would have been just if his Majesty had named him as Governor, for all his services, alleging his claim as based on the testament of the Marquis and on a royal provision, he being still absent in Quito. These reflections aroused in him a desire to go to Cuzco, and assemble forces to oppose the Viceroy. Meanwhile letters continued to arrive from all parts, inciting him to set out speedily, striving to excite his anger, and urging him to undertake the enterprise as his own, for it was to liberate the province and befriend the people, as their patron and as he who, jointly with the Marquis, had discovered the kingdom. They told him that he should feel the misery and ruin which his Majesty’s orders would bring upon them. That he might have a stronger inducement to interfere, it was hinted to him that he himself, with all who had been concerned in the recent troubles, were to be beheaded and all their property confiscated.

Having considered all these things, and being a man of little knowledge, Gonzalo Pizarro was inclined to approach the city of Cuzco, without thinking that it was madness to oppose the royal officers. At Cuzco he had faithful friends who would do what seemed best for his service. So he wrote cheerful letters to all parts, saying that he would come and attend to their wishes, adventuring his life for their welfare. Having collected all the silver, of which there were such quantities that 100 marcs or more were extracted daily, he determined to set out for the great city of Cuzco, leaving orders that what more of the precious metal was extracted should be speedily sent after him. About fourteen men, all being his own servants, accompanied him, and one who was his brother, having the name of Blas de Soto. As he approached Cuzco there came many letters from Lima and other parts and he, keeping in his breast what he intended to do, held his tongue, showing by his silence that he would do that which had been urged upon him in the letters.

CHAPTER XV

How Gonzalo Pizarro sent a spy to Arequipa and further on to get news about the Viceroy, and how some soldiers arrived.

The Captain Gonzalo Pizarro was very anxious to know whether the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela had entered the kingdom and in what part he then was. To resolve these doubts he secretly sent for a soldier named Bazan, who was very diligent and knew the country well. He asked him to set out at once for Arequipa and there to ascertain what the Viceroy said of him, taking great care that it should not be known who sent him. If the Viceroy should be in any province in the kingdom, Bazan was to come back with great speed, but secretly, with the news. If he should find that the Viceroy had not yet entered the kingdom, he was to go on to Lima, where he would be certain to obtain definite news. Bazan, with the desire promptly to comply with Pizarro’s wishes, started with letters of introduction to many prominent persons in Arequipa and Lima, and after a few journeys he came back because he had ascertained for certain that the Viceroy was near Truxillo.

Meanwhile Pizarro arrived at the lake of Titicaca which is in the province of Callao, where he met the Captain Francisco de Almendras[30], who, with two youths who were his nephews, named Diego de Almendras and Martin de Almendras, came to join him, having heard what had happened and of his march to Cuzco. When they met, Gonzalo Pizarro was much pleased, for there had been great friendship between them since the time when they came for the conquest of Peru.

They continued their journey, talking of many things and, as it was told in all parts that Gonzalo Pizarro was on his way to Cuzco, more citizens came to meet him. At the town of Ylave he was joined by Gomez de Leon, Noguerol de Ulloa, and Hernando de Torres, citizens of Arequipa, and a soldier named Francisco de Leon. As soon as they had greeted each other, all their talk was concerning the rigour and harshness of the ordinances, and the violence with which the Viceroy was enforcing them, without listening to the prayers of those who petitioned that they should be referred back to the King their natural lord. Besides these, many soldiers joined Pizarro, who were scattered over the country. The first was Martin Monje who followed the war for a long time, and is now a citizen of the town of Plata. The soldiers joined Pizarro because they delighted in war and hated peace; for in war time they could rob at their wills, and use their neighbour’s property as their own. They all knew from their own experience that in changes some lost and others gained. In the absence of peace and tranquillity in the kingdom poor soldiers might become prosperous citizens, and knights with great estates might become poor, and even lose their lives which is worse. So they offered their services to Pizarro with great pleasure, showing hearty good will to perform all that he required. He, who wrongfully intended to oppose the legal authorities, answered them graciously, and was pleased with the good will they professed.

As Gonzalo Pizarro continued his journey more letters reached him, sent by Alonso de Toro[31], Francisco de Villacastin[32] and other citizens of Cuzco, in which they told him the latest news. All the other settlers in Cuzco and other parts of Peru, although they expressed their sentiments freely respecting the new laws, did not forget to rob the Indians and to take as much as they could from them, ignoring the rules which were intended to put a rein on their avarice. Pizarro reached the town of Ayavire, which is the end of the province of Callao in that direction, and there he found waiting for him the Encomendero of that district, who was Francisco de Villacastin. He, as we said, had written a letter, also Tomas Vasquez[33], a citizen of Cuzco, who was on his way to certain mines of his, in Caravaya. He rejoiced at the meeting with Pizarro and, abandoning his Caravaya journey, returned to the city of Cuzco.

Gonzalo Pizarro, finding that the wishes and acts of all agreed with what they had written in their letters, was very much pleased, and was eager to reach Cuzco. In order to do this as quickly as possible, he left his luggage in a town called Quiquijana, whence he went on to Cuzco by forced marches, having first said to a soldier, named Espinosa, that he was as certain that the Viceroy was now in Lima, as that Jesus Christ was in heaven. They say that, many times on that road they heard Gonzalo Pizarro say that if Blasco Nuñez did not provide a remedy for the ordinances, he would have to play a game on which he must count, for no one else in Spain wished to go out to enforce these laws. He added that his Majesty the Emperor, our Lord, had made a mistake in not sending him the title of Governor of the kingdom which he and his brothers had discovered. Then he swore that either the ordinances should be revoked or he would lose his life.

Further on he met Francisco Sanchez, a citizen of Cuzco, who with hearty welcome and in a loud voice said that Pizarro had done well to come, and that he should hasten to encounter Blasco Nuñez to pay him well for having brought the ordinances. Further than this they say that he spoke words against the powerful Emperor our Lord. Gonzalo Pizarro had met Juan Ortiz de Zarate[34] in the province of Callao, and had tried to persuade him to come with him to Cuzco. Juan Ortiz gave a prudent answer, without wanting to follow him, for he gathered from his loose and disgraceful words that he had no loyal intentions.

CHAPTER XVI

How the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro entered the city of Cuzco, where he found coldness and ill-will among most of the citizens; and what the Viceroy did in Truxillo.

At the time when these events were taking place Garcia de Montalvo was Lieutenant-Governor of Cuzco for Vaca de Castro. He and the Alcaldes and magistrates of that city knew of the coming of Gonzalo Pizarro and that he was close at hand. After they had held a meeting to decide what they should do, they decided that they would go out to meet him with some show of pleasure, thinking that he would not boast or pretend to being more than Procurator-General of the kingdom. So all went out to meet him and gave him a joyful welcome. He went to lodge in his houses or palaces. Many of the citizens visited him but little, and showed that those who contemplated violence were not to answer for all. Others, on the other hand, made him great offers, urging him, without minding difficulties, to go on with what he had begun.

Before this I should have narrated the entrance of the Viceroy into the city of Lima, for he did so before Gonzalo Pizarro arrived at Cuzco; and we should have told what the Viceroy did while he was at Truxillo with regard to the treatment of the Indians. But first I must mention the flight of some of the citizens from Cuzco.

CHAPTER XVII

How some citizens of Cuzco fled from Lima without waiting for the Viceroy, and how he was advised of their going.

The tumult in Lima was very great when news came that the Viceroy was coming and that he was enforcing the ordinances with extreme rigour. Vaca de Castro deplored what the people said of the Viceroy, and how ill they took his approach. He tried to appease them in public, saying some good things that, as time went on, he might not have occasion to say more evil: showing how all the provinces were tranquil and seeking the service of God our Lord and of his Majesty, before the Viceroy arrived, and that he was ill advised to come with so severe and rigorous a policy. The citizens of Cuzco, Hernando Bachicao, Gaspar Rodriguez and the rest also spoke in the same manner, showing a desire to leave Lima before the arrival of the Viceroy. As they sent their plans to many places, Santillana, the mayor-domo of the Viceroy, got news of it. He hurriedly sent a messenger, urging how important it was to come to Lima without delay, and not remain at Truxillo attending to trifling matters. This was not suitable to his dignity and to the authority existing in his person. Finally he gave an account of the tumults in the city and in other parts.

One Mendieta, also a servant of the Viceroy, set out from Lima with the letter, and, going with great speed, reached the city of Truxillo where the Viceroy had already been informed of what was going on by Diego de Aguero. After the arrival of the messenger, named Mendieta, the Viceroy was rather disturbed, but he did not believe that the kingdom would openly rise against him. He said that if he had fifty men of Aviles with him, it would be sufficient to pacify the whole of Peru, never mind how many kicks they aimed against the ordinances. Presently he gave orders for the march to Lima, though his brother Vela Nuñez was ill. The Viceroy was accompanied by Diego Alvarez de Cueto, his brother-in-law, his brother, and the same knights and others who came with him from Piura.

The events already mentioned having taken place in Lima, the citizens of Cuzco, who had arrived, found that the negotiation between Vaca de Castro and the municipality had fallen through, and that the Viceroy had already set out from Truxillo. They reflected that here would be great difficulty in enforcing the new laws, while it would be easy to oppose the Viceroy and oblige him to leave the country. The Licentiate Vaca de Castro might be restored to the government, for whom all felt great friendship, especially Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo. They declared as the truth that the Licentiate Vaca de Castro consulted in secret with Camporedondo whether he should return to Cuzco, and, if the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro had arrived there, should act with him. If not he might be received as lieutenant of the Governor, the Viceroy not being received. Afterwards it would be an easy thing to induce Gonzalo Pizarro to return to his estate and to desist from what he had begun. All the cities would then restore Vaca de Castro as Governor.

These and many other things passed between one and another. Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo came out into the square and, looking at those who were there he recognized Santillana, a servant of the Viceroy. He then said, in a loud voice, that he should go back to Cuzco to defend his property, and that others would do the same, as the Viceroy so cruelly intended to seize it. He then took leave of Vaca de Castro and set out on his return to Cuzco, accompanied by Hernando de Bachicao and Beltran del Conde. Diego Maldonado and Pedro de los Rios did the same, taking the coast road with the intention of reaching the province of Andahuaylas. They would not then be in the movements which they believed would be sure to take place. At that time the clouds were so congealed that, in no way could great calamities and troubles be diverted from the kingdom.

When Gaspar Rodriguez and Bachicao, with the others, arrived in the province of Huarochiri, they burnt the pikes left there by Vaca de Castro and took the small field pieces and arquebuses to Cuzco. Father Loaysa was following them with all speed. After they left Lima the Licentiate de la Gama also departed, attended by a soldier named Olea.

CHAPTER XVIII

How Gonzalo Pizarro sent Mezcua as a spy to Lima, and how, not finding the equipment he expected in the city, he did not wish to leave it.

When the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro was established in the houses at Cuzco, some of the citizens came to visit him, but they were not all disposed to follow him in his policy of resistance. In order to gain them over, he said that he would dispose all his forces for the public good, as for his own brothers and companions; without saying a word that would give them any suspicions of his evil intentions and tyrannical thoughts, which were to seize the kingdom. The citizens had received news that the Viceroy was coming from Truxillo to Lima (where he had been acknowledged, as well as in all the other cities and towns of the kingdom), in order to see that no harm arose in the future from the proceeding of Gonzalo Pizarro. Those in Cuzco who believed this, agreed not only to show him no favour, but seldom to visit him. He, seeing how cold those had become who had invited him to come, became sad, saying that he wished to return to Charcas. He sent for one of his servants named Mezcua, and told him to go to Lima with all speed, to find out what was happening there, and whether the Viceroy would soon enter the city. Mezcua set out, and Gonzalo Pizarro waited for the result, and to see whether the citizens of Cuzco would then receive him as their defender and Procurator-General.

At this time there arrived in Cuzco the Licentiate Benito Suarez de Carbajal, with a bad report of the Viceroy’s conduct and of the rigour with which he was enforcing the new laws. Gonzalo Pizarro rejoiced at his arrival. The Licentiate de la Gama travelled along the route of Cuzco, very glad that he had been able to get away from Lima before the arrival of the Viceroy, but enraged at that official’s proceedings, telling every one he met that they should return to Cuzco and not go on to Lima, because the cruelty of the Viceroy was great. The Licentiate Leon, being apprised that the Viceroy was near Lima, left that city by the coast road to Arequipa. He left a letter to the Viceroy saying that he did not go to create any disturbance, nor against the service of the King our Lord nor of his lordship; but merely to his own property. He concluded with the assurance that he would never join any one who was not a servant of the King. But he only kept this promise for the time it took him to write the letter. As soon as he arrived at Cuzco he expressed joy at Gonzalo Pizarro’s position in the city. He not only joined him, but declared that it was lawful for him to petition against the new laws, even in arms, with the title of Procurator-General, if the Viceroy should insist on doing harm. The opinions of the lawyer and others who did not fail to endorse what he said, induced many people to join Pizarro, which did not cost them more than their lives and estates, and being branded as traitors.

One thing I wish to affirm, that the citizens of Cuzco, as well as those of Lima, merely desired nor had they any other wish than that his Majesty the King our Lord should suspend the new laws because much evil would arise from their enforcement. When they chose Pizarro as Procurator, they nominated three or four conquerors to accompany him with his petition but these, being sheep, had chosen a wolf for their guard.

Those who have made kings out of tyrants have always done harm to republics. Those of the isle of Cadiz who, in war with the Andaluces, were constrained to send to Carthage for help, remained with all their republics as vassals to their supposed friends. Ceasing to speak of very ancient times in which there were many such examples as well among the tyrants of Sicily as in Greece, all the cities of Italy were free and exempt, but now are held by Lords and have lost their liberty, by what means those who are curious well know and can clearly see. In the name of liberty Pompey fought. Cæsar did the same, and Octavius and Mark Antony. These remained Lords, and of those who opposed them, some were killed and the others became vassals. As the Carthaginians did not give Asdrubal and his brother-in-law Hannibal rule and power over their city, their affairs went forward.

The citizens of Cuzco and Lima desired that their Procurator should be Pizarro, who was to venture his life and honour for their liberties. It was not remembered that he was the brother of Hernando Pizarro, the other raiser of former wars, and that it was publicly known that, after he came from Canela, many had heard him say that the King our Lord had treated him badly in not having made him governor of the province after the death of the Marquis, and, on many other occasions, that he would govern though it was against all the world. From the time that Gonzalo Pizarro knew that the Viceroy had arrived, and that he had received letters urging him to undertake the enterprise, he had resolved to be Governor, though he carefully dissimulated, saying that he only sought the public good and his own rest, and that he only wished for the means to live.

CHAPTER XIX

How the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela was coming near to the city of Lima, and how Don Alonso de Montemayor went out to meet him with the Secretary, Pero Lopez, and some others.

Having left Truxillo the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela continued to approach Lima with a strong desire to find himself in it, feeling certain that the disturbed state of all parts of the country would be softened down by his presence there. Two men set out from Lima very cautiously, when his approach was known, who had grievances against Vaca de Castro, named Anton de Leon and Juan de Leon. They went on the road to tell the Viceroy what was passing, and to gain his favour. Continuing his journey the Viceroy came to a town called La Barranca. Here he met the Secretary Pero Lopez who had come in advance from the province of Xauxa and told the Viceroy what Vaca de Castro had told him to say. The Viceroy did not look favourably on the affairs of Vaca de Castro, thinking he was a very avaricious man.

Don Alonso de Montemayor had come from Cuzco with the Licentiate Vaca de Castro. When he knew that the Viceroy was coming near Lima, he went out to meet him. As Don Alonso was a principal person, the Viceroy was very glad that he had come and received him very well. Don Alonso told him of the citizens of Cuzco having departed from Lima, and even what Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo had said publicly. The Viceroy deplored this, and lamented that men should so easily be moved to oppose what his Majesty ordered. He feared that it would cause scandals and disturbances and increase his difficulties. For he also had news of the letters which Gonzalo Pizarro had sent to all parts. As he came nearer to Lima other knights came out to meet him. Some urged him not to enforce the new laws, as they would cause serious detriment to the service of his Majesty. He said that he could not delay what his King had ordered. From the time that he arrived, he had seen the provinces disturbed at the Indians being taken from widows. He would not submit the protest to the Emperor as Don Antonio de Mendoza and the other governors did, which would have saved this kingdom from passing through such great miseries and calamities. But still worse! What do I say! That the coming of the Viceroy, as I have already said many times, was a scourge of God, sent to chastise this kingdom for its sins. They say how great was the prosperity of the citizens of Quito in those times. In their feasts and banquets some of them put on their tables salt cellars full of gold dust instead of salt, and all had $30,000 or 40,000 some more some less, which they had got out of the mines in a short time. They themselves were for the Viceroy and took him to their city where, on the field of Añaquito, he was killed with many of them. The cause of what happened in Peru on the coming of the Viceroy was the great sins committed by the settlers in that land. I myself knew some citizens who by their concubines had fifteen sons. Many leave their wives in Spain for fifteen and twenty years, living with an Indian girl: and so, as both Christians and Indians sinned greatly, the punishment was general.

CHAPTER XX

How it was known at Lima that the Viceroy was near, and how the Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa and the Governor Vaca de Castro, with other knights and citizens, went out to meet him.

When it was known that the Viceroy was near there were great disturbances and tumults in Lima, and all the people wanted to take up arms. There was a meeting of the municipal officers to decide what should be done, and they exhorted the people not to make a disturbance when the Viceroy arrived and entered the city, and until it was seen whether he still intended to enforce the laws. For in the meeting they held, they spoke of not obeying the detested ordinances even if the Viceroy insisted upon compliance. The Archbishop of Lima[35] told me that the Alcalde Alonso Palomino, the Treasurer Alonso Riquelme, and the Overseer Garcia de Salcedo came to induce him to come out to receive the Viceroy and require him not to enforce the ordinances. The Archbishop said that if he went out to receive the Viceroy he would require nothing from him, and that they, in like case, could do what seemed most advisable. It is also said that they spoke to the Archbishop on what they wanted to be done, calling him to hear their desires by ringing a bell. This enraged the Archbishop who said it was more like a village bell than anything else. It is even said that those who wished to resist, actually proposed to seize the Viceroy in the municipal building, and others relate that, in the lodgings of the Archbishop it was proposed that the Viceroy should be poisoned. The Father Baltasar de Loaysa told this to me, adding, that he knew it for certain. Talking of this not many days ago, to the Reverend Friar Domingo de Santo Tomas[36] of the Order of St Dominic, a person of great learning and sanctity, he swore to me that nothing of the kind ever happened as regards the Archbishop. The Archbishop has said the same to me himself, explaining that those who contemplated such things may well have been in his house, but that he knew nothing about it. It is certain that they plotted amongst themselves, and that they detested the very name of the Viceroy, but it cannot be supposed that either the Bishop or Vaca de Castro were concerned in the matter.

These tumults and rages having been appeased, the Licentiate Rodrigo Niño[37] was elected and appointed as Procurator to petition for three things, first the suspension of the new laws until his Majesty should take some other order, and receive information of the grave injury to the kingdom if they were enforced. The first petition should be presented with great humility. The second should be accompanied by a representation of the serious evils which would be caused by enforcing the new laws, for all the kingdom was disturbed, and the citizens of Cuzco who were in Lima had left it. For it was certain that Gonzalo Pizarro had received many letters from all parts urging him to allow himself to be named as the procurator and defender of all. The third object was to protest against the troubles and deaths that would be caused. The Captain Diego de Aguero had returned by order of the Viceroy and came to where the municipality was assembled. He told the magistrates that they should receive the Viceroy willingly, and that there was no occasion for any demands. Owing to this speech of Diego de Aguero they consented and gave orders for the reception.

At this time Don Jeronimo de Loaysa, Bishop of Lima, who had also been Bishop of Cartagena, and the Licentiate Vaca de Castro, with the Factor Illan Suarez, the Captain Juan de Saavedra, Pablo de Meneses, and the Factor Juan de Salas, with other citizens, knowing that the Viceroy was near the city, went out to meet him. They proceeded on the road until they met, and they were well received. The Viceroy was pleased to see the Bishop, and some discourse passed between them, respecting Vaca de Castro, to whom the Viceroy showed much cordiality. After some courtesies, the Bishop said he was glad that the Viceroy had arrived, because his presence would check the departure of citizens to Cuzco. He submitted that it would be profitable and show a Christian spirit to suspend the laws and advise his Majesty of the trouble they were causing. The Viceroy would know that anything which advanced the service of the King would be desirable. The Viceroy replied that his Majesty felt confidence in his lordship, and himself no less, and that he would comply with what the King had ordered. As for the ordinances he would see what was best, and that he would do. At this point the Factor Illan Suarez de Carbajal joined in the conversation. He said: “Give me, Viceroy, your hands.” The Viceroy was pleased and embraced him, for he had known him in the court of Spain, and he said: “I only regret that I can do you no good whatever.” The Factor was dismayed at hearing such words. He turned back with the Viceroy and they reached a place called Xaguey. Here the Bishop, Vaca de Castro, the Factor and the others prayed the Viceroy to sleep there that night for though it was early it would be convenient, and next morning they would enter the city. The Viceroy cheerfully consented.

Many citizens and knights presently arrived to see the Viceroy and to kiss his hand, and he received them all very well. He took the Archbishop aside, so that no one else could hear, and told him that, being in Spain, without a thought of coming to these parts, nor knowing anything of Peru, nor having had any intercourse with the people settled there, his Majesty had ordered him to go out as Viceroy and enforce the new laws. He said that it was much against his will to come out and take away what others had given. Though he was assured that his Majesty would be well served if the new laws were revoked and more favour was shown to the conquerors, yet he prayed the Archbishop to apprise him of what had passed, for he had been told that certain citizens of Cuzco went about to cause disturbances in the land. The Archbishop said, in reply, that many days had passed since news had come respecting the ordinances, and that they had given rise to troubles throughout the country. It, therefore, behoved the Viceroy to act cautiously. These discourses took place between the Viceroy and the Archbishop. The Viceroy had also conversed with Vaca de Castro and the other knights who were present.

Lorenzo Estopiñan had come out to meet the Viceroy, and seeing in him a disposition not to enforce the ordinances until the arrival of the Judges, went forward to take the news, and so did others. But though they announced this, they did not fail to feel much sadness, and the same was in the minds of all. They saw that the entrance of the Viceroy into Peru would give rise to a new war which would be worse and would last longer than former wars because it would be brought about from a more important and weighty cause.

CHAPTER XXI

How the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez de Vela entered the city of Lima.

The members of the municipality of Lima did not rejoice at the arrival of the Viceroy nor did what he brought with him give them any satisfaction. So that they had made no preparation to receive him in the way that was required with one coming with so important a charge from his Majesty. Then Estopiñan arrived and told them that the Viceroy did not come to enforce the new laws before the arrival of the Judges. Then they took from the church the canopy which was used to hold over the most holy sacrament, the body of our God, when it was taken to the sick: and there assembled the Alcaldes Nicolas de Ribera, Alonso Palomino, the Captain Diego de Aguero, Francisco de Ampuero, the Overseer Garcia de Salcedo, the Factor Suarez de Carbajal, Nicolas de Ribera (Junior), Juan de Leon, and the Procurator Rodrigo Niño. The Treasurer was laid up with the gout. All the city was sad and tearful with the knowledge that the new laws would so soon be enforced. The magistrates were dressed in robes, and a crimson cloth was placed on the canopy. For as the arrival was disliked, no orders had been given for the reception, except the presentation of the three demands adopted by the advice of Diego de Aguero. The Alcaldes held the poles of the canopy and were accompanied by a crowd of people. They came as far as the river, making a show of public rejoicing at the arrival.

In the morning the Viceroy set out from the place where he had passed the night and soon came to where they were waiting for him. He spoke to the members of the municipality with much love, and they answered in the same way and put him under the canopy. He was on a black horse covered with black velvet adorned with gilded nail heads. Then the Factor Illan Suarez de Carbajal said, in a loud voice: “Your Lordship, as Viceroy, on entering this city, we supplicate in all humility that you will confirm our liberties and privileges as is just.” The Viceroy looked at his breast, and not seeing the cross he replied: “By the habit of Santiago I promise to guard and maintain those privileges which are in conformity with his Majesty’s service.” They conducted him to the church, where there were two balconies which the Bishop had ordered to be put up, one for the Viceroy, the other for the Bishop and Vaca de Castro. Mass was said, and the Viceroy was then conducted to the house of the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro. When the Indians saw the Viceroy entering under a canopy, an honour which they had never seen to be shown to any other Spaniard, but only when the most holy sacrament was taken from the church: they spoke one to another, and asked some of the Spaniards whether it was the son of God to whom such honour was done. They were told who he was, and evinced much pleasure at his arrival.

In Pizarro’s house, over the door of the Viceroy’s bed chamber, they had painted an inscription—SPIRITUS SANCTISSIMUS SUPERVENIAT IN TE, and over the door of the hall or saloon, another—VELOCITER EXAUDI ME DOMINE QUIA DEFECIT SPIRITUS MEUS. Leaving the Viceroy in his lodging, the Alcaldes and Magistrates went to hold a meeting where they could consult as to what they should do.

The Viceroy, finding that the Secretary Pero Lopez was well liked in the kingdom, had sent him on the road to Cuzco with the royal ordinances, to notify them to the municipality and citizens.

CHAPTER XXII

How the members of the municipality of the city of Lima arranged to send messengers to the city of Cuzco advising that there should be no disturbance; and how when Pedro de Hinojosa, Diego Centeno and Lope Martin were coming to Lima Hinojosa turned back; and what happened between the Viceroy and the Treasurer Alonso Riquelme.

The Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela remained in his house, while the Alcaldes and Magistrates met to consider the best course to take. The Treasurer Alonso Riquelme was so learned that he now asked to speak to the Viceroy for them all, with a view to sending a messenger to Cuzco. As he could not walk by reason of the gout, he was carried in a chair, heard their intention, and willingly undertook to get it carried into effect. The Viceroy, when the Treasurer came to him, rejoiced to see him and embraced him. The Treasurer said: “Your Lordship is welcome as one who comes by order of the King our natural Lord. Would to God that you had come with more despatch, for the municipality, with its letter, informed you of the evil that would result from delay and of the advantage from arriving with speed. No one who goes to do business in any province should linger in the suburbs, but should come at once to the principal city, seeing that the small streams and brooks eventually lose themselves in the great rivers. Your Lordship must be very tired. Enjoy yourself and rest for a few days. There will be time afterwards to do what is needful, and we will serve you loyally, which I promise in the name of the municipality and the citizens.”

The Viceroy cheerfully replied that he could not doubt the loyalty to their King of the numerous knights who were in the city. He would take some repose, while he waited for the Judges, when a court of justice would be formed, which would establish order in matters relating to the King’s service and the peace of the kingdom. The Treasurer departed in great joy at this good answer. He gave an account of his interview to the municipality who were well pleased and considered that it would be well to send a message to Cuzco advising that there should be no disturbance, and sending the good news of the desire of the Viceroy to give satisfaction to all.

The Alcalde Diego Centeno and Pedro de Hinojosa, Magistrates of the town of Plata[38] which is in a corner of Charcas, were coming near to Lima, to arrange about doing what had been ordered with regard to their town. With them came Lope Martin, a citizen of Cuzco. Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo and Bachicao, with others, had left the city of Lima, and told things concerning the Viceroy which certainly were not just, saying that he was enforcing the ordinances and taking away the Indians to let them go where they liked, from those who had been lieutenants. When Centeno and Hinojosa heard this, they agreed that Hinojosa should go back to Cuzco to report everything, while Centeno continued his journey to Lima with Lope Martin. When Centeno arrived at Lima he was very well received by the Viceroy.

The members of the municipality of Lima being assembled, it was resolved that messengers should be sent to Cuzco to counteract what might have been said by Rodriguez and the others, and to advise the people to make no disturbance, pointing out what great difficulties it would cause. Alonso Riquelme and the Overseer Garcia de Saucedo were requested, on the part of the others, to persuade Lorenzo de Estopiñan to go, with a letter of credence to this effect. Estopiñan consented to undertake the mission; and there was another meeting when it was agreed that the business might be better settled if Diego Centeno returned to his town. On his way he might give the citizens of Cuzco to understand what the Viceroy desired to do for the good of the kingdom. Some went to Diego Centeno, who had already asked leave of the Viceroy to return to Charcas. He said that he had come to Lima as Procurator from Plata, and that he rejoiced at what he had heard, for he understood that all would receive favour in the King’s name. The municipality of Lima having requested him to take certain despatches to Cuzco, he asked the Viceroy whether he would be served by his accepting the mission. The Viceroy replied that he had every confidence in Centeno, and that he would be glad if he took the despatches that would be delivered to him by the municipality; besides which he would give him a copy of the royal provisions of his Majesty, by virtue of which he should be received as Viceroy in the cities of Guamanga and Cuzco. The Viceroy further asked Centeno to tell the Spaniards in those cities to make no trouble for his proceedings were in obedience to the King’s orders. Diego Centeno promised to carry out these instructions and, after some further business with the Viceroy he took leave of him, receiving the despatches and provisions.

Diego Centeno was a native of Ciudad Rodrigo. His father’s name was Hernando Carveo, and his mother’s Maria de Vera. He was a gentleman, not very tall. He had a fair skin and pleasant countenance, with a red beard. Of noble condition he was not very liberal as regards his own estate, but expended that of the King largely. He had the usual vices common among men in the Indies. He left Spain for the Indies at twenty years of age, and had close affinity with the Captain Peranzules and other captains in that kingdom. Having received the despatches and provisions he left Lima accompanied by Lope Martin. On arriving at Guamanga the provisions of the Viceroy were obeyed as his Majesty had ordered.

CHAPTER XXIII

How, when Gonzalo Pizarro was feeling very sad because the citizens of Cuzco did not agree with him as he expected, there arrived Mezcua who had gone to spy with letters from several people, and what else happened.

The Captain Gonzalo Pizarro, on his arrival at the city of Cuzco, notwithstanding that Alonso de Toro, Villacastin, and Tomas Vasquez showed great willingness and declared themselves to be his faithful friends, had found a strong disinclination to comply with his wishes among the others. The reason was that they knew of the arrival of the Viceroy in Lima, and they felt that it would not be right to oppose themselves to the royal orders. Seeing this, Pizarro was discouraged and somewhat enraged. He had been wrong and wanting in knowledge to be moved by private letters and conversations. He ordered his Indians to depart from Cuzco which they had done, and he was about to do the same when Gomez de Mezcua arrived. He had set out from Cuzco, by Pizarro’s order, to find out what was happening at Lima. He met Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo and Bachicao, with others, at Guamanga. These used very ugly words against the Viceroy and the ordinances. When they heard from Mezcua that Gonzalo Pizarro was in Cuzco, they rejoiced exceedingly, telling him to return and report that they were coming. They gave him letters from some of the citizens of Lima who spoke of their hatred of the Viceroy. Pizarro was urged to drive him out of the country if he would not suspend the ordinances until his Majesty the King was informed of the grave injury they would do. Mezcua with great speed returned to Cuzco to bring such joyful news, just at the time when Gonzalo Pizarro was preparing to leave it.

When the coming of the citizens and the things they said of the Viceroy were known, opinions in Cuzco altered a good deal. Men declared that they would not suffer such injuries. Pizarro, sending for Alonso de Toro, Villacastin and his other friends, showed them letters he had received from Lima, and told Mezcua to state what he had been told by Gaspar Rodriguez and his companions. The news made Gonzalo Pizarro change his mind about returning to Charcas, and gave the citizens of Cuzco a reason for electing him as Procurator-General to prevent the new laws from being enforced until his Majesty had received and considered the petitions of the conquerors of Peru.

Here the reader may see how fragile and slippery are the affairs of this world, and that there are many changes in every hour that we live in it. At one moment we find Gonzalo Pizarro about to retire into private life, and the people of Cuzco in no mind to make him their Procurator, nor to give him any other charge. In another, no sooner was it known that citizens of Lima were coming to arouse those of Cuzco, than Pizarro was accepted to take command over all others, march to Lima, and drive out the Viceroy. Afterwards, by virtue of a clause in the will of the Marquis his brother, Gonzalo Pizarro was to be received as Governor. Pompey the Great, when Julius Cæsar passed the Rubicon, was received as Captain-General against him and, being in Greece, at the proposal of the Consul Lentulus he was given a commission to raise troops, appoint captains, and fit out fleets against him who was looked upon as an enemy. The simple people of all nations, when they saw the mandate of the Roman Senate, and that Pompey was appointed as Captain-General to defend the republic, easily came to the conclusion that Pompey was fighting solely for the public good, which, God knows, would be that he who conquered might do as he pleased.

Thus, in the kingdom of Peru the news spread that those of the municipality and the other citizens had nominated Gonzalo Pizarro as Procurator. Believing that his only object was their good, they rejoiced and gave assistance. He had more time than Pompey had to mature the tyrannical objects which he fostered in his bosom. Happy those who were in the kingdom, and were able to desist from following the banners of this tyrant. But what can I say, being far away in the dense cane brakes of Quimbaya[39], yet this fury extended even to that distance, letting us know how cruel are these civil wars.

CHAPTER XXIV

How Gaspar Rodriguez and his companions arrived at the city of Cuzco, and how Gonzalo Pizarro was received as Captain against the Inca.

Now it is time, O city of Cuzco, that we relate the movements which occurred in thee, causing no small amount of clamour and mourning. But boast not of that, seeing that the deeds of the citizens were the causes of much bloodshed. The war which was commenced by thee spread beyond thy confines, as the sad conflict of Huarina bears testimony.

The Spaniards in Cuzco were aroused to great anger by what they heard of the Viceroy from Gaspar Rodriguez, Hernando Bachicao and the others. They rejoiced to find Gonzalo Pizarro there, giving him an account of all that had taken place at Lima, and how the Viceroy had taken the Indians from Diego de Mora, Alonso Holguin, Diego Palomino and others; and had declared that he would do the same in all parts, enforcing the new laws with rigour. All then understood the great injury that would be done to them. When this had been heard, all agreed to take Gonzalo Pizarro, and to go with him to pray that the new laws might not be enforced in all their rigour. Gaspar Rodriguez and Hernando Bachicao declared that the people of Lima intended to seize the Viceroy if he persisted in enforcing the new laws. Owing to these statements there was much anxiety in Cuzco, and the people expected to receive very heavy punishment. Yet there was a variety of opinions among them, the majority being disposed to take any course rather than obey the new laws.

The tumult having subsided, which arose on the arrival of the news about the Viceroy, it was decided to seek the best way in which Gonzalo Pizarro, in the name of all, might represent the people. Yet it did not appear certain that power could be given to him, seeing that Blasco Nuñez had arrived at Lima, and had been received as Viceroy. On the other hand to withhold the power would be madness and would cause serious injury. Letters did not cease to arrive not only from Lima, but also from the province of Andahuaylas. Pedro de los Rios and Diego Maldonado had interviews with Francisco Maldonado, Hernando Bachicao, and Juan Velez de Guevara with others. They concerted with the citizens and the municipal officers that Gonzalo Pizarro should be appointed captain against the Inca who was, according to rumour, arranging to march against the city. As much reliance was placed on Pizarro, he easily induced the citizens, jointly with their municipal officers, to nominate and elect him as their captain against Manco Inca if he should come with warlike intent; and powers were given to their captain to collect arms and raise men.

But the desires of Pizarro did not stop there. He wanted to be acknowledged as Chief Justice and Procurator-General, with which authority he would be able to attain his ends. He wrote to the province of Andahuaylas, asking Diego Maldonado, the perpetual magistrate there, to come at once to the city. He also wrote to Pedro de los Rios to come to Cuzco. And notwithstanding that they preferred to remain in that province, and not to be present with those who were rebelling, they could not abide by their wishes, for so many letters came, that they had to go to Cuzco. When the news came that Gonzalo Pizarro was nominated captain against the Inca, soldiers arrived from all parts well armed with arquebuses and powder, eager that rumours should be converted into war, that they might emerge from the poverty caused by peace.

CHAPTER XXV

How Gonzalo Pizarro and his friends induced the municipality of Cuzco to nominate him Chief Justice, which was done against the wishes of many.

Gonzalo Pizarro rejoiced at being appointed captain against the Inca, because it was a step in the direction he wanted to go. Talking with the principal people of Cuzco, they discussed together the intention of the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela to enforce the ordinances, Pizarro pointing out that he had been induced to come from Charcas to help them, and that they should unite to name him Procurator, that he might have power to go and to supplicate in their favour. Letters kept arriving from Lima and from other parts urging him to lose no time in marching from Cuzco. The members of the municipality had a meeting where many speeches were made touching this business. At length it was agreed that Gonzalo Pizarro should be given authority, in the name of the city, to march to Lima and see that the ordinances were suspended until they had been again submitted to his Majesty the King. The people of Cuzco would risk their lives, goods and estates to secure this.

Gonzalo Pizarro, after this resolution, went about with armed men, and showed by his words and bearing that he expected something more than the title of Procurator. The Licentiate Leon had now arrived at Cuzco and rejoiced very much when he heard what had taken place. The Licentiate de la Gama had written letters in which he said many bad things against the Viceroy.

As soon as Gonzalo Pizarro was nominated Procurator, he began to talk with Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo, Cermeño, Alonso de Toro, Tomas Vasquez, and his other friends, to concert measures for turning the minds of the citizens to receive him as Chief Justice, for if this was done he would have complete control of everything. The members of the municipality were much opposed, for it seemed to them that Gonzalo Pizarro, against their wishes, wanted to raise the country in opposition to the Viceroy. They would not give their consent, and some of them murmured, saying—“Perhaps you do not see the consequence of such an advance to contend against the Viceroy.” They cursed those who had written from Lima, and that Gonzalo Pizarro, believing them too easily, should have come to the city, leaving the town where he resided.

When Pizarro understood this attitude of some of the citizens, he said that he did not wish to be Procurator of such an ungrateful city, and he did not desist from going about accompanied by arquebusiers and musketeers. There was then another meeting of the municipal officers, who made the following proposal, copied exactly from the original, which I saw in possession of a notary.

“In the city of Cuzco, 26th of June 1544, in presence of Gomez de Chaves, public notary. The Captain Gonzalo Pizarro was there and said ‘I will resign the offices of Captain-General and Procurator of this kingdom because the magistrates and other officials of it do not wish to include the office of Chief Justice. If they should wish to entrust me with that duty I should not shrink from it, but would use and exercise it as I am instructed by them. Because it will conduce to the pacification of the soldiers, I desire to be chosen for that office, that being my desire, and I sign this with my name.’ Witnesses—the Captain Francisco de Almendras and the Captain Cermeño.”

When Gonzalo Pizarro said this, some of those who were at the meeting, were very much disturbed. For while, on one side, Gonzalo Pizarro said that he would resign the appointments of Captain and Procurator, on the other the armed men who were with him seemed ready to elect and nominate him as Chief Justice. So they were afraid to come to a decision. The arquebusiers outside fired some shots to give those inside to understand what would happen to them if they did not obey.

In conclusion, after some further discussion, the votes were given in the following manner.

Juan Velez de Guevara, Magistrate for his Majesty, said that he would vote, and give as his opinion that the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro should be Captain-General and Chief Justice, and to this he signed his name.

Then Antonio de Altamirano, Alcalde, gave his vote that Gonzalo Pizarro should be Chief Justice, and signed his name.

Next the Captain Diego Maldonado the rich said that as his desire was to do what was best for his Majesty’s service, he requested his colleagues to let him consult some one with more learning, after which he would be prepared to answer.

Hernando Bachicao, a Magistrate, said that his vote and opinion was that the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro should be Chief Justice until his Majesty should otherwise provide, and he signed his name.

Francisco Maldonado said that his vote and opinion was that as the ordinary Alcaldes were occupied in civil and criminal lawsuits, and as there were many soldiers in the city, the number daily increasing, the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro should be Chief Justice, and he signed his name.

Diego Maldonado de Alamos said that his vote and opinion was to seek what was best for the service of God our Lord, and for that of his Majesty, and for the good and service of the city and its people. He had not learning to be able to certify that the request of Captain Gonzalo Pizarro was right, nor whether he had the power to make him Chief Justice as a Magistrate of that city, and to this he put his name.

Juan Julio de Hojeda said that his opinion was the same as that of Diego Maldonado de Alamos, and to this he signed his name. Then followed a document as follows:

“And presently, the votes of the Alcaldes and Magistrates having been seen, they said that the Captain Gonzalo Pizarro was chosen and nominated Chief Justice, and powers were given to him which appertain to that Office. They received the oath in due form, and he promised to use and exercise the Office according to law, and these names were signed”:

They say that, at this time, the Licentiates de la Gama, Carbajal, Leon, and Barba and the bachelor Guevara, gave votes and opinions that Gonzalo Pizarro should go with an armed force to supplicate respecting the ordinances, and that they would show that this was legal and right. Even worse things than these were said, and votes were given which caused no little harm, many simple people, believing what was told them, following the tyrant in his rebellion.

CHAPTER XXVI

How the Alcaldes Antonio Altamirano and Diego Maldonado the rich left the meeting, but finally had to sign, and how the Procurator Alonso Carrasco declined to provide a petition on the arrangement in the name of the city.

At the time when the members of the municipality give their opinions and votes at their place of meeting, the Alcalde Antonio Altamirano, seeing that the intentions of Gonzalo Pizarro were tyrannical and evil, left the building to avoid voting. Diego Maldonado the rich did the same. Gonzalo Pizarro came out with the wand of office, and all obeyed him as Chief Justice. Diego Maldonado being in his house, Captain Cermeño with a company of arquebusiers came to take him to the house of Gonzalo Pizarro who was very angry because Maldonado would not sign. Pizarro, with a haughty countenance, ordered him, having the first vote in the municipality, to sign before he left the room, that all might see it. He was told that his life would be taken if he did not sign, so he signed, but in a false hand, and different from his usual signature. Antonio de Altamirano also signed. Diego Maldonado asked all to witness, he and Pedro de los Rios making a secret protest that they did not join with Gonzalo Pizarro, nor would they be found acting against the service of his Majesty.

Notwithstanding what had taken place, those who were committed to Gonzalo Pizarro, in order that his reception as Chief Justice might be more pronounced, advised that he should speak to Pero Alonso Carrasco, the Procurator of the city, and induce him to present a petition to the municipality stating that the people rejoiced at the election, which was for the public good. Pero Alonso, acting prudently, and seeing that such a proceeding was not right, would neither make such a petition, nor present it to the municipality. Gonzalo Pizarro, indignant at his opposition, gave orders that his property should be confiscated. Pero Alonso Carrasco, fearing that they would kill him, took refuge in the church and, thinking that he was not safe there, he went to the house of Alonso de Mesa[40], a citizen of Cuzco, where he was concealed for two days and two nights.

Gonzalo Pizarro was so enraged because Pero Alonso Carrasco would not send the petition in the name of the city that, as some say[41], he ordered some of his servants to kill the Procurator. One night Pero Alonso ventured out to go to his house, and was badly wounded in three places by those who were waiting for him. They left him, thinking he was dead. This is the reason that Pero Alonso Carrasco did not go with Garcilasso and Graviel de Rojas when they left the city to join the Viceroy.

CHAPTER XXVII

How a letter came from Lima, written by the Factor Illan Suarez de Carbajal, in cypher, and how the Captain Garcilasso de la Vega was asked for his vote for the nomination of Pizarro.

The blessed Gregory says[42] that a great reward cannot be obtained without great labour, great knowledge and understanding, and long vigils, passing many nights and days in them. Solomon says that great riches cannot be got or held without great watchfulness and much working of the spirit. This narrative is a notable example for me, for in putting my hands to write a work so difficult as this upon which I am now engaged, in no way can I avoid passing long vigils, to make sure that the stories agree one with another, and that I do not in any way depart from the truth. But I know that the work I have undertaken, with the divine help, is worthy of the expenditure of such labour, yet in no part have I found myself so perplexed as at this point. I have felt that my weak judgment is insufficient to decide such great questions, insomuch that I have thought I must bring my narrative to an end, leaving the field open to an abler pen. However, the hold I have taken of it gives me courage to proceed onwards.

The city of the Kings having received the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela, and the conversation I have mentioned having taken place between him and the Treasurer, the Factor Illan Suarez de Carbajal, a direct servant of the King, wrote a letter in cypher, which I have had in my possession, to his brother Benito Suarez de Carbajal, in which he said that he should loyally serve the King, and if there were rebellions in the provinces, he should not consent to them, but come at once to Lima, where he would find the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela, with other advice to the same effect. The licentiate received the letter, and replied in cypher to the Factor declaring that he would act in conformity with his brother’s advice in all things, and he wrote to the Viceroy, telling him what was taking place in Cuzco.

Gonzalo Pizarro, finding that the Captain Garcilasso de la Vega[43] had not approved of his election, being a Magistrate of the city, he sent to notify to him that he must give his vote. He replied that he was unlearned, and did not know whether he could certify to the nomination of Chief Justice. He did this to avoid either voting or signing a document which was clearly opposed to the King’s service. Gonzalo Pizarro then sent for the Licentiate Carbajal to require him to say whether Garcilasso could, with justice, give his vote in this matter. Carbajal replied in the affirmative. Garcilasso had given his answer with circumspection. In order to evade the necessity, he went to the place of municipal meetings and stated, in presence of the other magistrates who were assembled there, that he was not a magistrate by vote of the municipality, but by reason of the absence of a citizen, whose duties he had undertaken, which he now resigned, and that he protested he would do so no more. Saying this he left the room.

Gonzalo Pizarro, and those of the municipality, then sent Pedro de Hinojosa to the city of Arequipa to summon Francisco de Carbajal, the same who was the Serjeant Major in the battle of Chupas, to bring what arms and troops he could collect, and to come to Cuzco. Pedro de Hinojosa set out for Arequipa, where Francisco de Carbajal was residing, very anxious to return to Spain but unable to obtain a passage. When he understood the position of Gonzalo Pizarro and that he called for him, it is said that he was sad, wishing to keep clear of these complications. But he was a man experienced in war, and brought up in the profession of arms. He said: “I was very unwilling to put my hands into the warp of this cloth, but now that things are as they are, I promise to be the principal weaver.” He then got ready to go to Cuzco, using ugly words against the ordinances, and saying that he had been like the cat that was so teased and ill treated that at length it turned to scratch its own master. If his Majesty sent such laws, he added, it was a decent thing to oppose them. Pedro de Hinojosa returned to Cuzco after delivering his message. The Lieutenant or Corregidor of Arequipa absented himself, and Hinojosa met with no hindrance or ill treatment. He occupied himself solely in collecting as many men and weapons as he could.

CHAPTER XXVIII

How the Captain Lorenzo de Aldana wrote and told the Viceroy what the people at Cuzco were saying, and how it was rumoured in Lima that Gonzalo Pizarro was nominated Governor of Cuzco.

The Captain Lorenzo de Aldana[44] was in the province of Xauxa where he had a grant of Indians, and he heard what was being said, and how easily people had been moved to treat of affairs, from the citizens of Cuzco coming from Lima. He also had news how Gonzalo Pizarro had come from Charcas and marched to Cuzco, where he had claimed to be received as Procurator in opposition to the Viceroy. Aldana was anxious that there should be no disturbance nor war in his province, and that the Viceroy should act prudently. The business he took in hand was difficult and needed wise counsel. He wrote to the Viceroy giving him welcome on his arrival: and said that it should be known how Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo, Bachicao, and the other citizens from Cuzco had related with what severity he had acted on entering the kingdom, and how little sympathy he had shown, rejoicing that he should have come to enforce the ordinances, taking their Indians away from those of San Miguel and Truxillo, and how great disturbances were the consequence. In order that it might go no further, and that those who were fostering the discontent might not be entirely believed, the orders of his Majesty should be carried out with much prudence. He said that he had been long in the land, and that he knew by experience the levity of those who settled there, and their willingness to see war break out, that they might profit by the disorders. Besides this, Lorenzo de Aldana wrote other things to the Viceroy, telling him that Gonzalo Pizarro was in Cuzco with the intention of being nominated Procurator. A few days after he had written this letter, Aldana left the province of Xauxa, and set out for Lima to join the Viceroy who rejoiced at his arrival. At this time the Captain Juan de Saavedra asked permission to go to Huanuco, which the Viceroy granted.

Many days had not passed in Lima before it was understood and known for certain that Gonzalo Pizarro had been received in Cuzco as Procurator to come and appeal against the ordinances. It is easy to understand this, for letters had always passed between Lima and Cuzco, the messengers going and coming. The news was now certain. They said joyfully among themselves, as it is reported, “Have you by chance not heard the good news?” “Well, Gonzalo Pizarro is nominated Procurator to come against this audacious man, the Viceroy!” Others, when they heard it, shrugged their shoulders and pressed their hands, unable to repress the laugh that came from their mouths. In short, great was the rejoicing among all the people.

The news came that Gonzalo Pizarro was at Cuzco assembling an armed force, and when the Viceroy heard it he was much disturbed in his mind. He could only say that Gonzalo Pizarro was a knight and a servant of the King, brother of the Marquis who discovered those provinces, and that he would not wish to merit the name of traitor. He desired that the Judges would arrive, that the court of justice might be established. Many times he came to the resolution of going at once to Cuzco accompanied only by his brother and his brother-in-law Diego Alvarez de Cueto, with a few citizens. There were so many inconveniences that the Cuzco expedition did not take place though, if he had been there, the disturbances would have ceased, and the war would not have commenced. But to speak of these things is to attempt divination: for God had determined to punish that kingdom, it even seems to me that the unusual lightning was a sign of it, and that it had to pass through more calamities and miseries. According to what Plutarch says in his life of Lucullus, referring to certain questions which the Cyreneans put to the divine Plato, there is nothing more arduous than to bring under special laws the men who possess great wealth, for they are like men intoxicated and beyond their ordinary senses, transported by the favours of prosperous fortune. The same Plutarch, on the other hand, says that there is nothing easier than to dominate the minds of similar men who are depressed by many reverses of fortune, because their reverses had crushed down all their pride and lofty thoughts. In truth it is a notable sentence. For at the time when the unfortunate Viceroy entered Peru, he found the minds of men, owing to their wealth, not only ready to protest against the laws, but to oppose them. Yet when the same tyrant’s proceedings had led them to disaster and misfortune, Gasca was able not only to enforce the laws but to enact others more heavy, and to carry out the will of the Emperor our lord who is now so powerful and so feared in these parts that his authority is not equalled in any other province in the world. I have said this, because it should be understood that his Majesty was able, as sovereign lord, to pardon when his commands had been obeyed, although there is, from Spain to Peru, more than four thousand leagues of land and sea.

CHAPTER XXIX

How his Majesty sent a royal order to the Adelantado Sebastian de Belalcazar commanding him to execute the new laws and how the Procurators met in the city of Popayan and agreed to a supplication.

After the death of the Captain Francisco Garcia de Tobar and the arrival of the warlike Juan Cabrera at the town of Timana, the chain of mountains was crossed which separates one region from the other, and the Adelantado Belalcazar came to the town of Popayan where he remained for some days. At that time, being in the city of Cali, the news arrived of the royal ordinances and of the coming of the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela to enforce them. There was a great disturbance, but the people all believed that their neighbours would refuse to obey the ordinances. They said that please God, they would agree to what their neighbours did, for the injury was so great. Then came the news that the Viceroy had been received in Lima which was displeasing to them, and made them think that those in Peru had little resolution. Then a ship arrived at the port of Buenaventura which brought the new laws in a letter from the very high and illustrious Prince our lord Don Felipe, ordering the Adelantado Belalcazar to execute and enforce the new laws and ordinances issued for the government of the Indies, in doing which he would perform a great service. When this royal order arrived, all the people were disturbed, saying that they could not submit to such a serious injury being done to them; and that their services did not merit such treatment.

Belalcazar acted with prudence, telling the people not to be disturbed, for his Majesty would certainly show favour to them. He sent orders to all the towns and cities in the province to send Procurators, that they might consider what it would be best to do, in the matter of the ordinances. Having arrived at the city of Popayan, the Adelantado wanted to execute the new laws, having first put a great number of Indians under the head of his sons, because, at the time of compliance, it would not then be for him to give them up. The Procurators, when they saw that he wanted to comply, besought him, in the name of all the province, to support their protest. This was agreed to, the execution of the laws was postponed, and they named one Francisco de Rodas to go as their Procurator to Spain. His Majesty had already named the Licentiate Diaz Amendariz as Commissary General and examining Judge. In this way that province was kept quiet and there was no serious disturbance.

CHAPTER XXX

How, after Gonzalo Pizarro had been received in Cuzco as Procurator and Chief Justice, he named captains; and how Diego Centeno arrived at Cuzco and delivered despatches to Pizarro.

Gonzalo Pizarro, being received as Chief Justice in the city of Cuzco, made haste to collect men, manufacture powder, and prepare arquebuses, while letters continually came, generally in cypher, speaking ill of the Viceroy, and urging Pizarro to come down to Lima without delay. Now that he had got the command which he desired, he considered that it would be well to nominate captains and officers for the war. He thought of giving the appointment of Ensign General to Diego Maldonado the rich, but he declined it with ingenious excuses, showing that it would be more advisable to leave him in the city. The members of the municipality also spoke to Pizarro, advising that Maldonado should be left as Alcalde and captain in Cuzco. Consenting to this, Gonzalo Pizarro appointed Alonso de Toro to be Master of the Camp. He was a native of Truxillo. For Ensign General Antonio de Altamirano, a native of Hontivéros was named. The captains of infantry were Diego Gumiel, a native of Villadiego, Juan Velez de Guevara of Malaga, Cermeño, who came from San Lucar de Barrameda, was captain of arquebusiers, Hernando Bachicao had charge of the artillery, and Pedro de Puertocarrero commanded the cavalry.

A few days after Gonzalo Pizarro had made these appointments, these rebels left Cuzco and those who wished to wage this wicked and atrocious war formed their camp. Thus the drums and fifes proclaimed its commencement. How rejoiced must have been the tyrant Gonzalo Pizarro to find that now he had the power to oppose the Viceroy, thinking that it would be easy afterwards to seize the government of the kingdom.

Lope Martin arrived at the city, publishing all the news of the Viceroy. Diego Centeno also arrived with the despatches and provisions which the Viceroy had brought. Some say that he delivered them into the hands of Gonzalo Pizarro of his own accord, without making any conditions. They say that Pizarro, when he saw the despatches, rejoiced at having got them into his power, and ordered Centeno, on pain of death, not to tell any citizen or any other person what he had brought. There was haste in getting the arms ready, and providing everything for the march; and it was resolved to send to the city of Guamanga for the artillery, Francisco de Almendras, a strong adherent of Pizarro, undertaking the duty.

CHAPTER XXXI

How Gonzalo Pizarro ordered the Captain Francisco de Almendras to go to the city of San Juan de Victoria which is in Guamanga to seize the artillery that had been sent there by the Licentiate Vaca de Castro.

When Gonzalo Pizarro conceived his evil design, he remembered that the artillery with which the younger Almagro gave battle to Vaca de Castro at Chupas, was in Guamanga. Having confidence in Francisco de Almendras, who was a citizen of Plata, Pizarro sent him, with thirty arquebusiers, to get possession of the artillery without doing any harm to that city. On the contrary he was to talk to the citizens and municipality, telling them that Pizarro had charged himself with the duty of answering in the name of all touching the question of the ordinances, and as they had written so many times and incited him to action, they should now be prepared to help.

Francisco de Almendras set out from Cuzco with his men, and arrived at Guamanga where, at that time, Vasco Suarez was Alcalde for the King our lord. When the object of Almendras was known there was a meeting of the Alcalde and magistrates to decide what steps should be taken to prevent the artillery from being taken away. Vasco Suarez said that he desired to defend the artillery, and to oppose Almendras and his men. Juan de Berrio, a magistrate, declared that with his person, arms, horses, and servants he would support the loyal intention of the Alcalde. Diego Gavilan said the same. The Captain Vasco de Guevara feigned to have a bad indisposition which increased so much at that time that he was unable to leave his bed. Almendras, in a loud voice, asked how long they would delay to give up the artillery? Those of Guamanga equivocated, not wishing to tell where the artillery was deposited. Almendras waited, for the soldiers said that he had little occasion to pass compliments, for Gonzalo Pizarro had left home and estate to answer the calls of these men, and now they pretended not to know where the artillery was. Some say that Vasco de Guevara told Almendras where it was, but that is false. The truth is that, with the most persuasive words he could use, he deceived Francisco de Almendras and, when night came, he mounted his horse and rode off to the country of Soras, where his grant of Indians was, with the wish of helping and serving the Viceroy.

When the Captain Almendras knew of the escape of Vasco de Guevara, he had a mind to destroy the town. In a great rage he went to the house of Guevara, and tortured his servants until they confessed where the artillery was. He took possession of it with great joy, saying to the citizens of Guamanga that he had little to thank them for, that he would return to Cuzco, and they would see what orders would come from there. This done he loaded the artillery on the shoulders of Indians, and took the road back to the city of Cuzco.

CHAPTER XXXII

How it became clearly known at Lima that there was a rebellion in Cuzco and that the artillery had been taken, which gave the Viceroy much anxiety.

At this time inconstancy began to show itself in Lima. The Devil walked out freely, putting evil thoughts into those who were well disposed. They talked secretly one to another, saying that the Viceroy would enforce the new laws. Others said: “Wait a bit, Pizarro is in Cuzco, and we have certain news that he will come with an armed force, and will answer for all.” The whole city knew this, and the Viceroy no longer ignored what he knew to be certain. Striking his forehead with his hand, he exclaimed: “Is it possible that the great Emperor our Lord, who is feared in all the provinces of Europe, and to whom the Turk, Master of all the East, dare not show himself hostile, should be disobeyed here by a bastard who refuses to comply with his laws?” The Viceroy was anxious that the Judges should arrive to found the court of justice, and the mind of this loyal man was torn with anguish at being unable to cause the royal wishes to be obeyed. He felt a great hatred against Vaca do Castro, and he found reasons for entertaining this feeling. For he knew that Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo, Bachicao, and the others who left the city were friends of Vaca de Castro, and he believed that they went to Cuzco by his advice. He, therefore, intended to have his conduct examined in order that he might be judicially punished, as soon as the Judges arrived.

Many days did not pass before the news arrived that the artillery had been seized at Guamanga, and it was said that Guevara had delivered it to Francisco de Almendras. No previous news had caused such grief to the Viceroy, and from his breast he hurled very angry words against Vasco de Guevara, saying that he ought to be severely punished for such a serious failure of duty. He was very suspicious of the people at Lima, not believing a word they said. Consequently they felt great fear that he would do them some injury.

CHAPTER XXXIII

How the Viceroy, seeing that the Judges were not coming, ordered the new laws to be publicly proclaimed, and of the imprisonment of Vaca de Castro.

From what has gone before the reader will remember that Blasco Nuñez Vela arrived at Lima joyfully, assuring the people that he would not execute the laws until the court of justice had been established, and it will also be borne in mind what passed with the Treasurer. But as he had come fresh from Spain where the majesty of our King is obeyed in such a manner, that every provision or order, however hard it may appear, is enforced and complied with notwithstanding any protests, he did not understand how disloyal the people in this kingdom had become, and the great looseness which had prevailed for some time. Notwithstanding the news of the rebellion at Cuzco and the seizure of the artillery he adopted a measure very suddenly which required much deliberation, forgetting his promise, and not considering how complicated and difficult the affairs of the kingdom had become, while the minds of the majority were dangerous and filled with animosity against himself. He suddenly ordered Juan Enriquez, the common crier, to proclaim the new laws publicly, that no one might claim ignorance, and that all might be public.

It is proper that the Viceroy’s intention should be understood, and not be obscured. I truly believe that he understood the state of affairs to be serious, and all now living know that what our Cæsar orders must be obeyed, though compliance may be difficult, still the laws must be published and enforced. No doubt the Viceroy wanted to execute them that it might not be said, either in the present time or in the future, that he desisted through fear from complying with the royal commands.

The great Alexander, founder of the third empire, and the most powerful King of Greece, we are told by Quintus Curtius and Arrian, had an excellent captain who passed with him into Asia, named Parmenion. This Parmenion had three noble sons, Philotas, Hector and Nicanor. Being Prefect of Mesopotamia, some of his letters appeared to be against the service of the King. Alexander suspected his general’s son Philotas, because he knew through Diminus that he had a grievance against the King. He did not wish to communicate the matter to Alexander because it was a matter of life and death; yet for this and for the letters which were found from his father, Philotas was cruelly put to death. Alexander, calling on Polidamas, one who was daring, ordered him to go to where Parmenion was and to kill him, and after his death to show an order he had given about the captains, that those of the army might not mutiny. Polidamas, notwithstanding that he had received much kindness and great honours from Parmenion, came to him with some letters, and while he was reading them he stabbed him. Although the sight of his venerable person moved him to compassion, he could only give attention to the royal order[45]. In the same way the Viceroy was anxious that his Majesty should know that, with fidelity and good will, he complied with the orders he had received, without concerning himself with the scandals he must face, in proclaiming the laws. What I say is only to show the Viceroy’s good intention, without contending that it was not foolhardy, and that the service of the King would have been better considered if the laws had been suspended and not proclaimed.

When the citizens of Lima heard the new laws proclaimed, they were much disturbed in their minds, and said one to another, “How is this? How can a Prince so very Christian as his Majesty seek to destroy us, when we have acquired this province at the cost of our property and the death of so many of our comrades. What will now become of our wives and children?” Many lost all feeling, and from that time looked upon themselves as bereft of Indians, and of all property. Being enraged they wrote letters to Gonzalo Pizarro, telling him what had taken place, and how the new laws had been proclaimed.

CHAPTER XXXIV

Concludes the former chapter down to the imprisonment of the Licentiate Vaca de Castro.

The Viceroy was not ignorant of what was passing in the city, and the great tumult showed him that the citizens were very unquiet. He came out of his room declaring that any who said that Gonzalo Pizarro had not rebelled, would presently be given a flogging of a hundred lashes publicly. In these days Vaca de Castro always went to visit the Viceroy, who was so angry with him that one day he ordered him to be arrested and imprisoned in the old room of the house of the Marquis, where the Viceroy lodged. He was there for eight days, feeling the treatment he was receiving from the Viceroy very acutely, and he regretted that he had not gone at once to render an account to the King of his government.

The Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa was much distressed that the Viceroy should have thrown Vaca de Castro into prison. He besought him to release his prisoner, which the Viceroy did at the Bishop’s request. But he proclaimed that anyone who had been aggrieved by Vaca de Castro was to send in his complaints in order that he might be punished if he had acted without justice. After a few days he again arrested Vaca de Castro and imprisoned him on board a ship. This imprisonment, according to what the Viceroy published, was due to a suspicion that Vaca de Castro meditated something against the Viceroy’s person.

Lorenzo de Aldana had come from the province of Xauxa to see the Viceroy, having first written the letter already mentioned. The Viceroy thought that the letter had been taken from him and was in a furious rage. For this and because his authority was great and he had always been a friend of the Pizarros, the Viceroy ordered him to be arrested on suspicion, and he was sent on board another ship as a prisoner. He was there several days and then released, the reasons being given why the orders had been issued for sending him on board.

At this time the Viceroy ordered that there should be a fleet on the sea. He appointed his brother-in-law Diego Alvarez de Cueto to be Captain-General, and Jeronimo Zurbano to be captain.

CHAPTER XXXV

How the Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa, regretting that these troubles should have arisen, spoke to the Viceroy of his desire to go to Cuzco, and what happened in consequence.

It was now well known to everyone at Lima that Gonzalo Pizarro was received at Cuzco as Procurator and Chief Justice. Don Jeronimo de Loaysa was Bishop in this city of Lima, which is the episcopal see. He was anxious that a civil war should not arise in the kingdom and that peace should be maintained. With the wish to serve God and his Majesty he wished to go personally to where Gonzalo Pizarro was. He, therefore, spoke to the Viceroy, representing the great movements that had taken place at Cuzco where it was reported that Gonzalo Pizarro had been appointed Procurator and Chief Justice, and was busy in getting arms ready, making powder, and providing everything necessary for war, and not convenient for supplications or protests. In order that the disgrace might not go further it would be desirable that some prudent and judicious man should undertake to move the discontented from such wild and wicked demands. As in like times the King expects such services from his vassals, the Bishop proposed to undertake the trouble, and to proceed towards Cuzco in order to persuade Gonzalo Pizarro into a more loyal course. They say that this passed between the Bishop and the Viceroy, and there were other discourses on the subject. The Viceroy showed himself well contented, saying the Bishop’s journey would be of great service to God and to his Majesty, and a mercy to himself. It was settled that the Bishop should start without delay, because there were to be certain notaries to go with the royal provisions, to require Gonzalo Pizarro and his followers not to move without consideration but to obey the laws of their King and natural lord, and to induce him not to come down to Lima with an armed force, and in the shameful way that had been announced. In order that the Bishop might make an honest agreement, the Viceroy gave him his word that he would agree to what the Bishop was able to arrange. He did not give him powers, for reasons which I will give at the time that the Bishop and Gonzalo Pizarro saw each other. For it is very troublesome to have to write the same thing many times. I shall give a detailed account of the Bishop’s journey, because it led to very delicate negotiations, and I knew persons who were then with Pizarro, and also some who came with the Bishop, and even the Bishop himself affirmed that things happened as I relate them.

Some treat of this journey of the Bishop as if he went more for the good of Pizarro and his advantage than for the King’s service. Well, I have no wish to go by vulgar rumours, because they cause confusion and make nothing certain. For we know that such rumours never contain the simple truth, although sometimes they may not be very far from it.

The journey of the Bishop having been decided upon, he set out from the city of Lima. He took with him a companion named Fray Isidro de San Vicente, and departed on the 20th day of June of the same year. There departed to accompany him on the journey Don Juan de Sandoval, Luis de Cespedes, Pero Ordoñez de Peñalosa and two clergymen named Alonso Marquez and Juan de Losa. They took the coast road and travelled until they arrived at the town of Yca. Here they met one Rodrigo de Pineda who was coming from Cuzco, and stated that Gonzalo Pizarro had already left that city, so that if the Bishop continued along the coast he would miss him. The Bishop, therefore, determined to ascend the mountains so as to come out at the town of Gualle, in the grant of Francisco de Cardenas, a citizen of Guamanga.

The Viceroy understood that the rebellion of the upper provinces was public, and that Gonzalo Pizarro and his followers, after the many ugly words spoken against the King’s service, were preparing to come in arms to prevent the royal commands from being obeyed. After having taken the opinions of his brother Francisco Velasquez Vela Nuñez, of Don Diego Alvarez de Cueto, of Don Alonso de Montemayor, and the other principal knights who were at Lima, he resolved to make a general call to arms throughout the kingdom. In great haste he ordered messages to be sent to all the cities and towns within his government, ordering all the citizens to come to Lima to serve his Majesty, with their arms and horses, without daring to show any favour to Gonzalo Pizarro or to any other who may be denounced as opponents of the service of the royal crown of Castille, on pain of being declared traitors and forfeiting all their goods. This being done the Viceroy ordered the Secretary Pero Lopez to get ready for a journey to Cuzco with the royal orders, requiring Gonzalo Pizarro and those who were with him to obey them fully with breasts on the ground as loyal vassals and subjects. Pero Lopez, notwithstanding the great danger he incurred, seeing that it was for the royal service, declared that he would go if the war was not commenced until his return, so that they might not kill him. The Viceroy gave the promise, yet if the ears of Pero Lopez were not deaf, he might have heard the sounds of drums and fifes before he had crossed the bounds of the city. In order that Pero Lopez might go more safely, the Viceroy ordered that Francisco de Ampuero[46], formerly a servant of the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro, should go with him, and so they set out from Lima. Simon de Alzate, Public Notary, also went with despatches and provisions, intended to draw off the rebels and bring them to the King’s service, on pain of being declared traitors, while those who became loyal would receive favour and help.

CHAPTER XXXVI

How the Judges arrived at Lima and established the Court of Justice.

We stated further back that, from the city of Panama the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela went on, and the Judges remained behind, to come later. After some days the Judges, with their wives, embarked in ships, landed at Payta, and began the journey to Lima by land. The complaints they received about the Viceroy were loud. They were assured that more than forty Spaniards had died of hunger on the roads, because the Indians would supply them with nothing. They replied that the Viceroy was a rash man, but that when they came to Lima they would establish the court of justice, that he might not indulge in such follies as he had done since he entered the kingdom. Talking in this way they arrived at Lima, where they found the place armed for defence, as the Viceroy had begun to declare war against Gonzalo Pizarro. When they arrived they were well received, lodged in houses of citizens, were well attended, and received many visitors.

They went to see the Viceroy who told them that the whole province was in a disturbed state, that Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo and Bachicao with others had fled from Lima, and excited the people of Cuzco where, without the fear of God or the King, they had nominated Gonzalo Pizarro as Procurator, and that he had seized the artillery which was at Guamanga, that, with it and the troops he had collected, he might march to Lima against them. The Judges were surprised to hear this news. The royal seal was brought under a canopy, the wands being carried by magistrates. The court of justice was then founded, and notices were sent to all parts. The Viceroy wrote an account of what was happening in Peru to the royal majesty of our Lord the King, from the time he landed, and how there was opposition to the ordinances which he had ordered to be promulgated. He wrote the same information to the members of the King’s very high Council.

CHAPTER XXXVII

How some citizens of Cuzco, seeing the evil intentions of Pizarro, wrote to the Viceroy to receive pardons and to say that they would help him.

It is very certain that when there are grievances leading to war, and the first impetuous fury that gave rise to it has passed, reason resumes its sway with some who begin to see the error they are committing. Many who had joined Gonzalo Pizarro now began to receive this impression, and hesitated to march with arms against the Viceroy. They said, “Who is this that has deceived us into opposing the King? How can we supplicate or protest with arquebuses and artillery. Besides this we see the inclination of Pizarro to take command.” Others said, “Let us prudently adhere to our King before worse comes.” Accordingly Diego Centeno, Gaspar Rodriguez de Camporedondo, the Camp Master Alonso de Toro, Diego Maldonado the rich, Pedro de los Rios and others, with a clergyman named Baltasar de Loaysa wrote to the Viceroy asking pardon for what they had done without any penalty, and affirming that they were ready to serve him loyally with their persons, arms, and horses. In order that Loaysa might go without being impeded, under the guise of dissimulation, they submitted to Gonzalo Pizarro that it would be a wise thing for the clergyman to go to Lima as a spy, find out what was being done, and come quickly back with the news. Gonzalo Pizarro, thinking that they advised in good faith, agreed and gave Loaysa permission to go. So, with letters from many persons, he set out from Cuzco to Lima[47]. At the same time the Bishop, and the notaries and Secretary with the despatches, were on their way to Cuzco.

CHAPTER XXXVIII

How the Secretary Pero Lopez, with Francisco de Ampuero, travelled along the road to Cuzco, how they arrived at Guamanga, and what happened to the Bishop after he arrived in that city.

We have related how the Viceroy Blasco Nuñez Vela ordered Francisco de Ampuero and the Secretary Pero Lopez to proceed to the camp of Pizarro and proclaim the royal ordinances, believing that Pero Lopez, being well known, would be safe, and Francisco de Ampuero would be in no danger because Gonzalo Pizarro had a friendship for him, as a servant of the Marquis his brother. Leaving the city with despatches, they pushed forward with all possible speed and overtook the Bishop. Having given an account of what their orders were, and received his benediction, they pushed on to comply with the Viceroy’s wishes, and arrived at Guamanga where the citizens, knowing the power of Gonzalo Pizarro, were unwilling to receive them in the city. At last a meeting of the municipality was called. After some speeches it was agreed to do what his Majesty ordered and to acknowledge Blasco Nuñez Vela as Viceroy, in accordance with the King’s command. When they received the demand that they should proceed to Lima with their arms and horses, they begged that the citizens might be pointed out, who were to go in company with the royal ordinances. They were so much alarmed that they did not venture to point out any one, and at last they asked the Secretary to name the citizens who must accompany the royal ordinances. He chose Juan de Berrio, Antonio de Aurelio and others, and continued his journey with them. The Bishop Don Jeronimo de Loaysa had arrived at Guamanga before they started, and they reported to him what had been done. He told them to wait, because by coming together with him they might proclaim the ordinances with more authority. But they did not wish to wait for the Bishop, preferring to make the journey more rapidly, and so they set out for Cuzco.

The Bishop had received letters from the Viceroy in which he announced that he could raise 800 soldiers, and that with them he intended to encounter Gonzalo Pizarro if he had the insolence to come. The Bishop answered that he should not raise troops, but continue to rule with the court of justice, and despatch all business through it. He should await the arrival of Gonzalo Pizarro in his house, accompanied by the Judges. He gave this letter to Francisco de Cardenas who, they say, did not wish to deliver it to the Viceroy. This done the Bishop left Guamanga and set out on the road to Cuzco.

CHAPTER XXXIX

How the Viceroy treated with the Judges for their concurrence in taking the treasure which was in the ship to be sent to Spain; and how the Judges revoked the new laws.

The Viceroy was much afflicted at what he considered to be the shameful conduct of the people, at having the audacity to rebel against a royal order. He formed many resolves, sometimes he was for marching quickly to Cuzco himself; at others he was for raising troops to defend Lima. Finally he summoned the Judges to meet him. These were the Licentiate Cepeda, the Doctor Tejada, and the Licentiates Alvarez and Zarate. They had only arrived a few days before. Having assembled he said to them: “It is as well known to you as it is to me that it is the will of his Majesty that the ordinances shall be complied with and enforced in all these kingdoms. If you should make any changes, or order anything contrary to the wish of your prince, no doubt you will be looked upon as well informed and wise men by those of Peru who have armed themselves to defend their properties. But it is his Majesty the Emperor who, in this case, must be served, and without fear. We should take up arms and be ready to march against the rebels. Do not think that it is not seen what these people desire. It is that Pizarro may be Procurator of these new laws, and even if they are suspended he will not put out this cruel fire. He is not ignorant that if the laws are not suspended it will afterwards afford an excuse which will give colour to his treason. It will now be necessary to obtain funds by taking out treasure which is on board the ship with the rest that belongs to his Majesty, in order to raise troops. Eventually it can all be repaid from the forfeited property and estates of the traitors.”

While the Viceroy spoke thus, the Judges listened to him with their eyes on the ground, and by their silence they showed great anxiety at the state of affairs, although they were not all of one mind nor did they all desire the success of the measures which their offices required. The anxiety they showed was that the Viceroy should assemble troops to resist Pizarro. There would be a battle, and if Pizarro was conqueror the Judges would not be committed. If he was vanquished the honour would rest with the Viceroy. Placing their own interests before everything else, the Licentiate Cepeda spoke first, because he had the first vote. He replied to the Viceroy’s speech in these words, “His Majesty appointed you as Viceroy, and we were chosen as Judges. You, as the principal person, came as President and Governor with orders to execute the ordinances, but taking the opinions of the Judges in all things. You are the head and the Judges are the members of the body politic, the whole being a body representing the name of the King’s Majesty. It is well known what took place at Panama, and what the Licentiate Zarate said respecting your coming. You were aware of the considerations which were put before you. But from the time you entered the kingdom you paid no attention to them. You wasted much time at Piura and Truxillo, as is well known, without much advantage, indeed things became worse. The disloyal wanted to become tyrants. Their only cry was liberty, in that name they have risen and acted. You were not ignorant how unsettled and unrestrained were the people of this land. Princes often dissimulate with their subjects until a convenient time comes to strike and punish. The name of Pizarro certainly counts for much in the minds of many of the inhabitants of this city, and little confidence can be placed either in them or in those of Cuzco. It will be a loss, and will do harm to spend the treasure of the King. The Bishop and the Regent[48] have gone to treat for peace. You ought to wait for the result, and for what the rebels say to the provision brought to them by Pero Lopez. You should give orders for the revocation of the ordinances though it would have been better if you had done this at Tumbez.”

The other Judges concurred.

Besides these discourses there were many others, because the Judges had previously agreed to make a requirement to the Viceroy not to enforce the new laws, but they did not dare to present it. As it was there were words between Cepeda and the Viceroy. It was stated by the Viceroy that, the court of justice having been founded, he did not need to take counsel with the Judges.

After these discourses the Viceroy determined to take the treasure out of the ships, as a means for resisting the treason which Pizarro had commenced. A sum of $100,000 or more was landed and taken to the treasury. The Viceroy then, with a valiant mind, began to hold Pizarro and his forces very cheap, and animated those who were in Lima. He also ordered the new laws to be revoked until his Majesty should order otherwise, except so far as governors and royal officers were concerned. Before the suspension he exclaimed, as a protest, that he did not do this willingly but as the only means of putting down the rebellion. The suspension was publicly proclaimed throughout the kingdom. If the people wanted no more than the suspension, they saw this done. But they were not worthy of that concession, for afterwards, by their mad insurrections, many lives were lost to support him they had elected for their defender, and certainly so much blood has been shed and properties lost, that it is sad to think of it. The thoughts of those men who seek the beginning without considering what will be the end should be stopped before they enter upon that beginning. Diogenes Laertius, among the sentences of the wise Plato, quotes this: “All men should first consider the consequence of what they intend to do, that they may not do a thing which is reprehensible and to be condemned.” Dionysius of Halicarnassus, in the eighth book of his Roman Antiquities, says: “You will never find that there has been a man to whom everything has always happened prosperously and according to his wishes. At some time fortune will have been against him. For this reason those who are more prudent than others, having longer lives and more experience, tell us that when a man is going to do anything, before he begins he should consider what will be the end.” The tyrants of the city of Jerusalem, Simon and John, according to Josephus in his De bello Judaico, who the people elected as their defenders, did more harm than the Romans could have done. Those of Milan chose Guelpone, Count of Angleria[49], as their captain, and the end of it was that the opulent city of Milan was burnt to ashes by Frederick Barbarossa[50]. The only real liberty is under royal government. If this is not true ask Arequipa what happened at Huarina, ask Quito about Anaquito. Ask them if it would not have been better never to have known Gonzalo Pizarro, and always to have their lord the King for sovereign, not with bright colours on the outside, and within full of dirt and soot, to oppose the King’s ministers, and those he sent as his delegates and lieutenants.

CHAPTER XL