At this unexpected reply, and moved still more by the dark look and decisive manner which accompanied it, Cortes turned to his men and quietly ordered them to have the entire force under arms at once. Then with the utmost composure and indifference of manner he turned to Montezuma and replied that there was nothing he wished more heartily than to return to his fatherland, but, as all his vessels were destroyed, he must build others and would have to request the necessary assistance. Montezuma could not conceal his delight. He embraced Cortes, overwhelmed him with caresses, and assured him that his declaration would satisfy his priests and his subjects, both of whom were desirous the strangers should leave. Cortes now clearly ascertained the sentiment of the priests and the people, and came to the conclusion that the only way he could evade the danger threatening him and his plans was by continual dissimulation. He accordingly publicly ordered the construction of new vessels, secretly instructing the ship-carpenters, however, to protract the work in every possible way, in hopes that the reinforcements he was expecting from Spain would arrive in the meantime. But truly, as if the punishment of heaven were following close upon his dishonest conduct, an event shortly occurred which plunged all his plans into desperate confusion. Montezuma hastily summoned him and showed him a picture, painted in the Mexican style upon white calico, of eighteen European vessels. The picture had been brought to the Emperor by swift runners with the news that these vessels were lying at anchor on his coasts. Cortes was delighted at this news, for it inspired the hope that these vessels had brought the confirmation from Spain of his appointment as governor of the newly discovered country. But to his great astonishment he learned several days later from Sandoval, the governor at Vera Cruz, that the fleet which had arrived was sent out by Velasquez for no other purpose than to capture him and take him to Cuba for trial. As we know, Cortes had sent one of his vessels to Spain with samples of the rich products of Mexico, and at the same time to secure his appointment. Montejo and Puertocarrero, the commanders of this vessel, had received explicit orders not to touch at the island of Cuba. They were to leave the island as far to their right as possible and sail around the point of Florida through the Bahamian Straits. But Montejo, who had property in Cuba, was so far forgetful of his duty to his superior as to attempt a visit to his possessions before sailing to Spain. He hardly reached the coast before Velasquez received news of his appearance. Velasquez’ wrath was kindled anew. He despatched two strong vessels for the purpose of capturing Cortes’ vessel with all on board, but luckily they received warning in time to effect their escape and sail for Spain without interference.