Page:Vol 2 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/267

Rh intended to prepare him for any blow. Calm and dignified he assisted on the following day, St John's, at the public bull-fight, and while there Samaniego was introduced. He placed the royal letter devoutly on his head, then kissed it, and after reading exclaimed, "I am glad the king has sent some one to learn the truth." He had already despatched messengers to welcome the royal representative, and to ascertain what route he preferred to take, so that suitable preparations might be made. They met him pushing his way to Mexico in all haste, and declining their services. He had gone to Medellin with the intention to rest there after the fatigues of the voyage, but evil-disposed persons were at hand, stating among other things that Salazar and Chirinos would be executed unless he hastened to interfere. Thoroughly alarmed both for them and himself he set out immediately by the longest and most settled road, as the safest.

Informed of this, Cortés sent Tapia with presents to tender him a reception at Iztapalapan. Ponce declined the gift, but accepted a banquet, chiefly for the sake of his suite. Tired and hungry, and for a long time unused to good fare, the new-comers ate heartily, and imbibed the iced liquids in large quantities. Father Ortiz alone was abstemious and seemed to eye the dishes suspiciously. At last came a custard, and Tapia asked permission to serve him. "Not of this or any other dish I" was the curt reply. The rest partook, however, but hardly had they finished when Ponce was seized with vomiting. The friar immediately asserted his belief that he had been poisoned