A Prince of Anahuac: A Histori-traditional Story Antedating the Aztec EmpirePorter, James A.
History
A Prince of Anahuac: A Histori-traditional Story Antedating the Aztec Empire
Porter, James A.
Mexico -- History -- To 1519 -- Fiction
On looking over the body of dignified and sober appearing individuals
there assembled, one would have decided at once that it was no ordinary
gathering of the king's subjects. Seated on his right was a man whose
dress and bearing were significant of royalty; while on his left was
another equally as notable. Richly caparisoned caciques and warriors
were present, some seated, and others standing about the chamber, all
waiting expectantly for the king to announce the opening of the
council.
Macua presently rose to speak, and every eye was fixed upon him with
interested attention. When perfect silence prevailed he said:
"I am pleased to witness the presence here at this time of so many
nobles and warriors, who have come to engage in important
deliberations. I have reason to believe that all of you are inspired by
a common thought: that of a mutual defense of our liberties. The
promptness with which the call has been met presages success in what
shall follow this meeting. As the head of this nation I extend to all a
cordial welcome to Tlacopan." Turning to a person who was evidently the
keeper of records, he continued: "The names of those who are to sit in
council with us will now be read, and the person named will rise and
acknowledge the same in the usual manner."
As the name was announced the person bearing it rose and made an
obeisance. After a number of names were gone over and acknowledged, the
recorder called out:
"Euetzin of Tezcuco!" to which no one responded. The tzin had not
arrived. At this moment an interruption occurred in consequence of the
entrance to the hall of a person who was conducted into the presence of
the assembly, causing a suspension of the roll call.
The newcomer appeared to be a stranger to all present, for no one
seemed to recognize him. If he was known his identity was not apparent.
Advancing before the king he saluted his majesty very profoundly. Macua
acknowledged the courtesy, but gave no sign of recognition.
"You do not remember me, O King, for which omission you are pardonable,
since my former appearance before you was in an assumed character.
This," he continued, holding up a signet, "may prove a reminder to
you."
"Euetzin of Tezcuco!" exclaimed Macua. "We were looking for a hunter,
not a tzin."
"I am the accredited representative of a prince to-day, if your majesty
pleases," replied Euetzin, with proper dignity.
"You are; and as the King of Tlacopan I greet you as such," returned
Macua, leaving the throne to extend to the tzin an honor seldom
conferred except upon a prince.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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