Page:Vol 2 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/25

Rh A trifling amount was thus obtained, which was gradually increased by presents and tributes from neighboring provinces; but this proved little among so many, reduced as it was by the royal fifth and the assignment secured by the opportune manœuvre on Cortés' part of offering the choicest pieces of jewelry as a present to the emperor. The share of the horsemen was about one hundred pesos de oro, and that of others proportionately less. Indignation now burst forth anew, and many scorned to accept their share. The treasurer Alderete was included among those suspected of fraud, and to exonerate himself, cast the blame on Cortés.