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 Python
for Beginners

Master Python Programming from

Basics to Advanced Level

Tim Simon
© Copyright 2024 - All rights reserved.
No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written
permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S.
copyright law.
Legal Notice:
This book is copyright protected. This is only for personal use. You cannot
amend, distribute, sell, use, quote or paraphrase any part or the content
within this book without the consent of the author.
Disclaimer Notice: This publication is designed to provide accurate and
authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is
sold with the understanding that neither the author nor the publisher is
engaged in rendering legal, investment, accounting or other
professional services. While the publisher and author have used their
best efforts in preparing this book, they make no representations or
warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents
of this book and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty may
be created or extended by sales representatives or written sales
materials. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be
suitable for your situation. You should consult with a professional when
appropriate. Neither the publisher nor the author shall be liable for
any loss of profit or any other commercial damages, including but not
limited to special, incidental, consequential, personal, or other
damages.
 Table of Contents

Introduction to Python
Basics of Python Programming
Working with Data
Functions and Modules
Error Handling and Debugging
Object-Oriented Programming
Working with Databases
Python in Web Development
Advanced Python Concepts
Real-World Python Projects
Where to Go Next?
 Introduction to Python

Python was conceived in the late 1980s by Guido van Rossum, a Dutch
programmer, at the Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI) in the
Netherlands. The inception of Python was influenced by van Rossum's
desire to create a language that overcame the shortcomings of ABC, a
language he had worked on at CWI. He sought to develop a language that
was both powerful and easy to use, combining the best features of Unix/C
and Modula-3, with a syntax that was both readable and concise.

The name 'Python' was inspired by the British comedy series 'Monty
Python's Flying Circus', reflecting van Rossum's goal to make programming
fun and accessible. The first version of Python (Python 0.9.0) was released
in February 1991, introducing fundamental features like exception
handling, functions, and the core datatypes that Python is known for.
Design Philosophy: The Zen of Python

Python's design philosophy emphasizes code readability and simplicity.

This philosophy is best encapsulated in "The Zen of Python", a collection of
aphorisms that express the guiding principles for Python's design. Written
by Tim Peters, a major contributor to Python, it includes precepts such as
"Beautiful is better than ugly," "Simple is better than complex," and
"Readability counts." These principles have guided Python's development,
ensuring that the language remains intuitive and maintainable.
One of Python's most distinctive features is its use of significant
whitespace. Unlike many other languages, Python uses indentation to define
code blocks, eliminating the need for curly braces. This feature, while
controversial at first, has been credited with encouraging programmers to
write cleaner, more readable code.
Python's Evolution and Adoption
Python's journey from a modest scripting language to a major force in
programming has been marked by steady evolution. Its versatility has been
enhanced by the development of numerous libraries and frameworks,
catering to a wide range of applications – from web development with
frameworks like Django and Flask, to scientific computing with libraries
like NumPy and SciPy, and machine learning with TensorFlow and
PyTorch.

Python's surge in popularity can also be attributed to its community-driven

development. The Python Enhancement Proposal (PEP) process, where
community members propose, discuss, and vote on changes to the language,
has been pivotal in Python's evolution. This democratic approach has
fostered a vibrant and inclusive Python community, contributing to its
widespread adoption.
Impact on the Programming World

Python's impact on the programming world has been profound. Its

simplicity makes it an ideal first language, lowering the barrier to entry into
the world of programming. In academia, Python has replaced languages like
Java and C++ as the preferred teaching language due to its simplicity and
readability.

In the professional realm, Python’s flexibility and the vast array of libraries
have made it a favorite among startups and tech giants alike. It has become
integral in emerging fields like data science, artificial intelligence, and
machine learning, driving innovation and research.
Python's growth is also reflected in its consistent ranking as one of the most
popular programming languages. Its usage spans across various domains,
from web development to scientific computing, making it a versatile tool in
a programmer's arsenal.

Setting Up Your Environment

Python is a cross-platform language, meaning it can be installed and run on
various operating systems such as Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
Regardless of the operating system, the installation process is
straightforward.
 1. Downloading Python: Visit the official Python website at
python.org. Navigate to the Downloads section, where the site
typically recommends the latest version for your operating system.
Python 3.x is the version you should install, as Python 2.x is no
longer supported.

2. Installation Process:

Windows: The Windows installer includes an option to add

Python to your PATH environment variable. Ensure this box is
checked, as it allows you to run Python from the command line.
MacOS: The MacOS installation is similar to Windows. After
mounting the downloaded package, follow the on-screen
instructions.
Linux: Most Linux distributions come with Python pre-installed.
To check if Python is installed and to see its version, you can use
the command python --version or python3 --version in the
terminal.

3. Verifying Installation: To verify that Python is installed correctly,

open your command line interface (Terminal on MacOS and Linux,
Command Prompt or PowerShell on Windows) and type python or
python3. If Python is installed and the PATH is set correctly, you
should see the Python interpreter's version and a prompt to start
coding.
Choosing an Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
While Python code can be written in a simple text editor, using an
Integrated Development Environment (IDE) can significantly enhance your
coding experience. An IDE provides features like syntax highlighting, code
completion, and debugging tools. Some popular IDEs for Python include:

PyCharm: Widely used in the professional field, PyCharm offers a

range of tools for Python development. There is a free Community
version and a paid Professional version.
 Visual Studio Code (VS Code): A free, open-source editor that is
highly customizable and supports a wide range of programming
languages, including Python.
Jupyter Notebook: Ideal for data science and analysis, Jupyter
Notebook offers an interactive environment where you can execute
code in sections.
Choose an IDE that best fits your needs and learning style. Each IDE has its
installation process, so refer to the respective documentation for guidance.
Setting Up a Virtual Environment
Python virtual environments are a best practice for managing project-
specific dependencies. They allow you to install packages in an isolated
environment, avoiding version conflicts between projects.

1. Creating a Virtual Environment: Navigate to your project's

directory in the command line and execute python -m venv myenv,
replacing myenv with your desired environment name. This
command creates a folder myenv which contains the Python
interpreter, libraries, and scripts.
2. Activating the Virtual Environment:

Windows: Run myenv\Scripts\activate.bat.

MacOS/Linux: Run source myenv/bin/activate.

3. Using the Virtual Environment: While the environment is active,

any Python packages you install using pip will be placed in the
virtual environment, isolated from the global Python installation.
Managing Packages with Pip
Pip is Python's package installer, allowing you to install and manage
additional libraries that are not part of the Python standard library. To install
a package, simply use pip install package_name. It's also good practice to
keep a record of a project's dependencies using a requirements.txt file,
which can be generated using pip freeze > requirements.txt.
Writing and Executing a Simple Python Script
Your First Python Program: Writing and Executing a Simple Python
Script
Python programs, at their simplest, are text files with a .py extension
containing Python code. Unlike many other programming languages,
Python does not require a complex setup to execute simple scripts. Let's
start with a fundamental program: printing a message to the screen.
Creating Your Python File:

Open your chosen text editor or IDE.

Create a new file and save it with a .py extension, for example,
hello_world.py.
Writing Your First Python Code:
In the file, type the following code:
1. print("Hello, World!")

This line of code is a print statement, which outputs the enclosed string to
the console.
Executing the Script:

Open your command line interface.

Navigate to the directory where your hello_world.py file is
saved.
Run the script by typing python hello_world.py or python3
hello_world.py (depending on your Python installation).
If everything is set up correctly, you will see the message Hello, World!
printed in the console. Congratulations, you've just written and executed
your first Python script!
Understanding the Print Function
The print function is one of the most commonly used Python functions. It
sends data to the console, which is a text-based interface for interacting
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with the computer. In our example, print("Hello, World!") sends the string
"Hello, World!" to the console.
Adding Comments
Comments are an essential part of programming. They are used to explain
what the code is doing, making it easier to understand for yourself and
others. In Python, comments start with a # symbol.
Add a comment to your script:
1. # This script prints a message to the console
2. print("Hello, World!")

Variables and User Input

Next, let's enhance the script by using variables and user input.
A variable in Python is used to store information that can be used in the
program. For example:
1. message = "Hello, Python!"
2. print(message)

Python also allows for user input. Modify your script to include input
functionality:
1. # Ask the user for their name
2. name = input("What is your name? ")

3.
4. # Print a personalized message
5. print("Hello, " + name + "!")

When you run this script, it will pause and wait for you to type your name.
After entering your name and pressing Enter, it will greet you personally.
Basic Error Handling
As a beginner, encountering errors is a normal part of the learning process.
These errors are often syntax errors, like missing a quotation mark or a
parenthesis. Python will try to tell you where it found a problem in your
code.
 For instance, if you mistakenly wrote pritn instead of print, Python
will raise a NameError, indicating that it doesn't recognize pritn.
Always read error messages carefully; they provide valuable clues
about what went wrong.
Basic Python Syntax

Python syntax refers to the set of rules that define how a Python program is
written and interpreted. Unlike many other programming languages, Python
emphasizes readability and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for
beginners. Understanding Python syntax is crucial for writing efficient and
error-free code.
Basic Syntax Rules
Indentation:
Python uses indentation to define code blocks, replacing the braces {} used
in many other languages. The amount of indentation (spaces or tabs) should
be consistent throughout the code block.
Example:
1. if True:
2. print("This is indented.")

In this example, the print statement is part of the if block due to its
indentation.
Variables:
Variables in Python are created when they are first assigned a value. Python
is dynamically-typed, which means you don't need to declare the type of a
variable when you create one.
Example:
1. my_number = 10
2. my_string = "Hello, Python!"

Comments:
Comments are used to explain the code and are not executed. In Python, a
comment is created by inserting a hash mark # before the text.
Example:
1. # This is a comment
2. print("This is not a comment")

Statements:

Python programs are made up of statements. A statement is an

instruction that the Python interpreter can execute.
In Python, the end of a statement is marked by a newline character.
However, you can extend a statement over multiple lines using
parentheses (), brackets [], or braces {}.
Example of a single-line statement:
1. print("Hello, Python!")

Example of a multi-line statement:

1. my_list = [
2. 1, 2, 3,
3. 4, 5, 6
4. ]

Functions:
A function in Python is defined using the def keyword, followed by a
function name, a signature within parentheses (), and a colon :. The
function body is indented.
Example:
1. def greet(name):
2. print("Hello, " + name)
3. greet("Alice")

Code Structure
Import Statements:
At the beginning of a Python file, it's common to include import statements
to include external modules.
Example:
1. import math
2. print(math.sqrt(16))

Main Block:

In larger scripts, it's a good practice to have a main block to control

the execution of the program.
This is typically done using an if statement that checks if the script
is being run directly.
Example:
1. def main():
2. print("This is the main function.")

3.
4. if __name__ == "__main__":
5. main()

Classes:
Classes are used to create new object types in Python. They are defined
using the class keyword.
Example:
1. class MyFirstClass:
2. def method(self):
3. print("This is a method of MyFirstClass.")

Best Practices

Consistency: Follow the PEP 8 style guide for Python code to

ensure consistency.
Descriptive Names: Use descriptive names for variables and
functions to make your code self-explanatory.
Avoiding Complexity: Keep your code simple. Complex, nested
structures can make your code hard to follow.
 Basics of Python Programming

Variables and Data Types A variable in Python is a symbolic

name that is a reference or pointer to an object. Once an object
is assigned to a variable, you can refer to the object by that
name. In Python, variables do not need explicit declaration to
reserve memory space. The declaration happens automatically
when a value is assigned to a variable.
Creating Variables: Variables are created the moment you first assign a
value to them.
Example:
1. my_variable = 10
2. greeting = "Hello, Python!"

In this example, my_variable is an integer variable, and greeting is a string

variable.
Data Types
Python has various standard data types that are used to define the operations
possible on them and the storage method for each of them. The fundamental
types are numbers, strings, and booleans.
Strings:

Strings in Python are identified as a contiguous set of characters

represented in quotation marks.
Python allows for either pairs of single or double quotes.
Strings can be concatenated, and basic operations like slicing can be
performed.
Example:
1. first_name = "John"
2. last_name = "Doe"
 3. full_name = first_name + " " + last_name # Concatenation
4. print(full_name) # Outputs: John Doe

Numbers:

Python supports integers, floating point numbers, and complex

numbers.
An integer is a whole number, positive or negative, without
decimals.
Floats are floating-point numbers; they represent real numbers and
can include fractions.
Example:
1. my_integer = 50
2. my_float = 25.5
3. sum = my_integer + my_float
4. print(sum) # Outputs: 75.5

Booleans:

Boolean data type is either True or False.

In Python, boolean values are the two constant objects False and
True.
Booleans are used to perform logical operations, particularly in
conditional statements.
Example:
1. is_active = True
2. is_registered = False

3.
4. if is_active and not is_registered:
5. print("Active but not registered.")

Dynamic Typing
 Python is dynamically typed, which means you don't have to
declare the type of a variable when you create one.
This makes Python very flexible in assigning data types; it allows
you to assign a different type to a variable if required.
Example:
1. var = 5
2. print(var) # Outputs: 5

3.
4. var = "Now I'm a string"
5. print(var) # Outputs: Now I'm a string

Mutable and Immutable Data Types

In Python, some data types are mutable, while others are

immutable.
Mutable objects can change their value but keep their id().
Examples include list, dict, set.
Immutable objects cannot change their value and include int, float,
bool, string, tuple.
Basic Operators Operators in Python are special symbols that
carry out arithmetic or logical computation. The value that the
operator operates on is called the operand. In Python,
operators are categorized into several types: arithmetic,
comparison, and assignment operators.
Arithmetic Operators Arithmetic operators are used to perform
mathematical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and
division.

1. Addition (+): Adds two operands.

Example: 5 + 3 gives 8.

2. Subtraction (-): Subtracts the right operand from the left operand.
Example: 5 - 3 gives 2.

3. Multiplication (*): Multiplies two operands.

Example: 5 * 3 gives 15.

4. Division (/): Divides the left operand by the right operand. The
result is a floating point number.
Example: 5 / 2 gives 2.5.

5. Modulus (%): Returns the remainder when the left operand is

divided by the right operand.
Example: 5 % 3 gives 2.

6. Floor Division (//): Divides and returns the integer value of the
quotient. It dumps the digits after the decimal.
Example: 5 // 2 gives 2.

7. Exponentiation (**): Performs exponential calculation on

operators.
Example: 5 ** 3 gives 125.
Comparison Operators Comparison operators are used to compare
values. They return either True or False according to the condition.

1. Equal (==): Checks if the values of two operands are equal.

Example: 5 == 3 gives False.

2. Not Equal (!=): Checks if the values of two operands are not
equal.
Example: 5 != 3 gives True.

3. Greater than (>): Checks if the left operand is greater than the
right operand.
Example: 5 > 3 gives True.
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 4. Less than (<): Checks if the left operand is less than the right
operand.
Example: 5 < 3 gives False.

5. Greater than or equal to (>=): Checks if the left operand is

greater than or equal to the right operand.
Example: 5 >= 3 gives True.

6. Less than or equal to (<=): Checks if the left operand is less

than or equal to the right operand.
Example: 5 <= 3 gives False.
Assignment Operators Assignment operators are used to assign values
to variables. In Python, assignment operators are more than just the
basic = (equals sign).

1. Assign (=): Assigns the value from the right side of the operator
to the left side operand.
Example: x = 5 assigns the value 5 to x.

2. Add and Assign (+=): It adds the right operand to the left
operand and assigns the result to the left operand.
Example: x += 5 is equivalent to x = x + 5.

3. Subtract and Assign (-=): Subtracts the right operand from the
left operand and assigns the result to the left operand.
Example: x -= 5 is equivalent to x = x - 5.

4. Multiply and Assign (*=): Multiplies the right operand with the
left operand and assigns the result to the left operand.
Example: x *= 5 is equivalent to x = x * 5.

5. Divide and Assign (/=): Divides the left operand with the right
operand and assigns the result to the left operand.
Example: x /= 5 is equivalent to x = x / 5.

6. Modulus and Assign (%=): Takes modulus using two operands

and assigns the result to the left operand.
Example: x %= 5 is equivalent to x = x % 5.

7. Floor Division and Assign (//=): Performs floor division on

operators and assigns the value to the left operand.
Example: x //= 5 is equivalent to x = x // 5.

8. Exponent and Assign (**=): Performs exponential calculation

on operators and assigns the value to the left operand.
Example: x **= 5 is equivalent to x = x ** 5.
Input and Output Operations In Python programming, input and
output operations are fundamental for interacting with the user
through the console. These operations are crucial for obtaining data
from the user, displaying results, or even for debugging purposes.
Output Operations The most common way to display output in Python
is using the print() function. It sends data to the console, which can be a
string, number, or any other data type that can be converted into a
string.
The print() Function:

Syntax: print(object(s), sep=separator, end=end, file=file,

flush=flush)
The print() function prints the given object(s) to the console or to
the given file. The separator between the objects is specified by sep
and defaults to a space character. After all objects are printed, end
is printed (it defaults to a newline character \n).
Example:
1. print("Hello, Python!")
2. print("Hello", "Python", sep="-")
3. print("Hello Python", end="!\n")
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new leader, whose heart was not so easily moulded as that of
Montezuma. Respect for the emperor, the Spaniards replied, had
made them hitherto lenient toward his people, but if they remained
obstinate no further mercy would be shown, and not one Mexican
would be spared. “Two days hence not one Spaniard will be alive!”
was the retort.
Hostilities were thereupon resumed, and Cortés did not delay the
prearranged attempt to complete the capture of the approach to
Tlacopan. The presence of the imperial corpse had either a retarding
influence on the movements of the enemy, or else the Spaniards
sallied unexpectedly and fought with greater energy, for the four
remaining bridges were gained with little difficulty, and twenty
horsemen passed on to the shore, while the infantry and allies took
possession of the route, and began filling in the channels with débris,
so as to form a solid path, or to repair the bridges at the deeper
places. At this time a messenger arrived with the announcement
from the chiefs who were directing the siege of the fort that they
were willing to treat for peace. Leaving the forces in charge of
Velazquez, Cortés hurried with some horsemen to answer the
welcome summons. The chiefs proposed that if pardon was granted
them for past offences they would raise the siege, repair the bridges
and causeways, and return to peaceful intercourse. In order to
arrange the conditions they demanded the liberation of the captured
high-priest. This was at once agreed to, and after some discussion
messengers were despatched to different parts of the city, bearing
orders, it was said, to stay hostilities.
It is somewhat singular that the astute Cortés should have given
such ready credence to proposals so advantageous to himself. Yet
this appears to have been the case. Delighted with the happy
adjustment of affairs, he ordered prepared a grand supper; but he
had hardly seated himself at table before tidings reached him that
the Mexicans had returned to the attack on the causeway, largely
reinforced by land and water, and were regaining the bridges taken
that day. The conference had been a ruse to throw the Spaniards off
their guard, to obtain the release of the high-priest, from whom
besides much information was expected about the condition of the
besieged, and to gain time for bringing up reinforcements.[813]
Fearful that his retreat would yet be cut off, Cortés galloped back to
the causeway, threw himself on the enemy, recovered the bridges,
and was soon in hot pursuit of the flying Mexicans. He had not
proceeded far, however, when the Indians, who had rushed for
safety into the lake and the canals, were encouraged to return to the
attack and cut off the cavalry. With furious charges they drove the
guard from the bridges, and began to destroy them and remove the
filling.[814] The causeway swarmed again with foes, and the water
round it was alive with canoes, whence myriads of missiles were
directed against the horsemen as they pushed their way back. On
reaching the last causeway breach, nearest the city, the riders feared
they would be overwhelmed, for here the enemy was gathered in
masses and had destroyed the passage. Nothing was left for them
but to take to the water, midst a storm of stones and darts, while
lines of spears and javelins pressed against them from the land and
from canoes. The party was thrown in disorder, and one rider was
pitched from his saddle during the mêlée, obstructing the passage to
the rest.[815] Cortés remained the last to cover the retreat, and
single-handed now and then turned on the swarming warriors,
striking with the energy of despair. Eager to secure the great
general, the enemy pressed heavily upon him, and but for the stout
armor protecting himself and the horse he would certainly have
perished. As it was, he received two severe wounds in the knee,
besides many scratches. The last Spaniard having left the bank,
Cortés rang loud his San Pedro cry, and clearing the way he leaped
his heavily laden horse across the chasm, six feet in width, and
quickly left behind him the discomfited crowd. “Had not God helped
me,” he writes, “that moment would have been my last.” Indeed, it
was already rumored in the city that he was dead. It being found
impossible to hold the causeway bridges, a guard was left only at the
others, while the remainder of the troops returned to the fort, worn-
out and demoralized.[816]
Long since it had been agreed among the Spaniards that the city
must be evacuated; time and method were the only questions. The
former of these was now resolved on by the council: it should be this
very night. It was safer to meet the issue now than later. The enemy
was hourly reinforced. Perilous indeed was the undertaking to pass
with luggage, war stores, prisoners, and women over the broken
causeway in the darkness; but to remain was death. Botello, the
astrologer, had declared for this time, and so it was determined. For
Botello was wise and prudent, knowing Latin and the stars; he had
foretold the greatness of Cortés, and had recommended his night
attack on Narvaez, and general and soldiers believed in him.[817]
Had he lived a century or two later his words might have been
employed as the vox stellarum by the almanac makers. The
Mexicans had said that they would make it a time of sore distress,
any attempted escape of the intruders, a time when men must
struggle, and women would pray and weep; and if so, it were no
worse for the fugitives that black night should fling her mantle over
the bloody scene.
Since the Indians were supposed to have destroyed the crossing
at the causeway channels, a portable bridge was made with which to
effect the passage. Two more would probably have been made had
time and convenience permitted, but misfortune willed it otherwise. It
was agreed that a large portion of the effects must be left behind in
order not to encumber the march, but the gold demanded special
care. The royal officials, Mejía and Ávila, were charged to secure it,
and for this purpose a number of carriers were assigned, the general
giving also one of his own mares. Their convoy was intrusted to a
body of infantry, under Alonso de Escobar.[818] The secretary,
Hernandez, and the royal notaries were called to testify that all had
been done that was possible. There still remained a large quantity of
the bulky jewels belonging to the king, besides a mass of
unappropriated treasure, which could not be intrusted to carriers, or
for which no carriers were found, and rather than leave them to the
‘Indian dogs’ Cortés announced that the soldiers might take all they
wished—after permitting his favorites the first selection. He warned
them, however, that the more they took the more their safety would
be endangered. The adherents of Cortés do not appear to have
been eager to encumber themselves, and Bernal Diaz shared this
prudence in taking only four chalchiuite stones. The men of Narvaez
practised less restraint, and many loaded themselves with the metal.
Cortés was afterward charged with having appropriated a
considerable share of the wealth thus thrown open; he certainly had
funds with which to send for horses, war material, and supplies.[819]
Sandoval was appointed to lead the van, with two hundred
infantry and twenty horsemen, assisted by Ordaz, Andrés de Tapia,
and others. With him went fifty men under Captain Magarino to carry
the bridge. They were pledged to remain at their post to the last, and
were escorted by a select body of infantry and allies. For the middle
were destined the baggage and treasure, the prisoners and the sick,
under a large escort, supervised by Cortés himself, who, with Olid,
Morla, Ávila, and other captains, and a special force of one hundred
men, were to render aid where needed. The artillery was intrusted to
two hundred and fifty Tlascaltecs and fifty soldiers, and the rear was
placed in charge of Alvarado and Velazquez, with thirty horsemen
and about one hundred adherents of Cortés, with most of the men of
Narvaez. The allied forces, of whom a number appear to have
returned home during the inaction of Montezuma’s captivity, and who
had suffered greatly during the siege, must still have numbered
nearly six thousand men, including carriers, distributed among the
three divisions.[820] Among the prisoners Cortés enumerates the
legitimate son of Montezuma, and two of his daughters, probably
those bestowed on the general in marriage, King Cacama and his
younger brother and successor, and several other high personages.
[821] The sick were to be carried in hammocks and behind riders.

It is the evening of the 30th of June.[822] Fiery copper has been

the sky that day; the sun blood-red and moon-like, turning day to
night, when night is so soon to be employed as day. As the hour
approaches, a fog sets in, which thickens into mist and denser
moisture until, to favor the Spaniards, providence turns it to a
drizzling rain,[823] thus to veil their movements, and make substantial
the silence of the city, the lake, the distant wood; and thereupon all
join fervently in the prayer of Father Olmedo and commend their
lives to almighty God.

About midnight the order is given to march.[824] Stealthily they

creep down the temple square and reach the Tlacopan road.[825]
The streets are wholly deserted. All is quiet, save the dull rumble of
tramping soldiers. The blessed rain, or some supernatural
interposition, seems to keep the whole city within doors. And if this
kind power will but have patience and not desert them for one brief
hour—ah, it is so easy for Omnipotence to help! Along the road like a
phantom the army moves. The van picks up the guard at the canal
crossings. The causeway is almost reached. Already they begin to
breathe freer; a feeling of intense relief steals into their breasts, and
—Mother of God! what noise is that? It is the piercing outcry of a
woman[826]—may the foul fiend seize her!—breaking upon the
stillness like a warning note from the watch-tower of Avernus. On the
instant the war-drum of the Tlatelulco temple sends forth its doleful
sound, chilling the fugitives to the very heart’s core. Quickly its tones
are drowned by the nearer, shriller trumpet-blasts and shouts of
warriors, echoed and reëchoed from every quarter.
 Meanwhile the advance column had reached the sixth bridge
crossing,[827] the first to connect with the causeway, and had obliged
the Mexican picket to retire, after exchanging a few shots. The
portable bridge was here laid, and the van crossed with quickened
steps, followed by the centre with the baggage and artillery. At this
juncture the enemy fell upon the rear, rending the air with their yells,
sending their missiles fast and furious, while from the cross-roads
issued a swarm, with lance and sword, on Alvarado’s flank. Over the
water resounded their cries, and canoes came crowding round the
causeway to attack the forward ranks. To add to the horrors of the
tumult, several men and horses slipped on the wet bridge and fell
into the water; others, midst heart-rending cries, were crowded over
the edge by those behind. All the rest succeeded in crossing,
however, except about one hundred soldiers. These, it is said,
bewildered by the battle cries and death shrieks, turned back to the
fort, and there held out for three days, till hunger forced them to
surrender and meet the fate of sacrificial victims at the coronation
feast of Cuitlahuatzin.[828]
The half mile of causeway extending between the first and
second breaches was now completely filled with Spaniards and
allies, whose flanks were harassed by the forces brought forward in
canoes on either side. Dark and foggy as the night was, the outline
of the Indian crews could be distinguished by the white and colored
tilmatli in which many of them were clad, owing to the coldness of
the air. Fearlessly they jumped to the banks, and fought the
Spaniards with lance and javelin, retreating into the water the
moment the charge was over. Some crept up the road sides, and
seizing the legs of the fugitives endeavored to drag them into the
water. So crowded were the soldiers that they could scarcely defend
themselves; aggressive movements were out of the question.
Repeated orders had been transmitted to Magarino to hurry
forward the removal of his bridge to the second channel, and, seeing
no more soldiers on the opposite bank of the first opening, he
prepared to obey, but the structure had been so deeply imbedded in
the banks from the heavy traffic that his men labored for some time
in vain to lift it, exposed all the while to a fierce onslaught. Finally,
after a number of the devoted band had succumbed, the bridge was
released, but before it could be drawn over the causeway the enemy
had borne it down at the other end so as effectually to wreck it.[829]
The loss of the bridge was a great calamity, and was so regarded by
the troops, hemmed in as they were between two deep channels, on
a causeway which in width would hold only twenty men in a line. On
all sides were enemies thirsting for blood. Presently a rush was
made for the second channel, where the soldiers had already begun,
in face of the foe, to cross on a single beam, which had been left
intact when the bridge was destroyed. As this was an exceedingly
slow process, many took to the water, only to receive their death-
blow at the hands of the watermen. Some were taken prisoners;
some sank beneath their burden of gold; the horses found a ford on
one side where the water was not above the saddle.
The canoes, however, were as numerous here as elsewhere,
and their occupants as determined; and the horsemen had the
greatest trouble to keep their seats while resisting them. The
general, being at the head, suffered most. At one time some Indians
seized him by the legs and tried to drag him off. The footing of the
horse being so insecure, the attempt would probably have
succeeded but for the prompt aid of Antonio de Quiñones, and
Texmaxahuitzin, a Tlascaltec, known afterward as Antonio. Olid, who
also came to the rescue, was almost overpowered, but managed to
free himself by means of backhanded blows from his muscular arm.
One of the cavalry, Juan de Salazar, the page of Cortés, then took
the lead to clear the way for the rest, only to fall a victim to his zeal.
The next moment his master had gained the bank, and thereupon
directed the troops by the ford.[830]
 Thus in the darkness the wild roar of battle continued, the
commingling shouts and strokes of combatants falling on the distant
ear as one continuous moan. The canoes now pressed on the
fugitives in greater number at the ford than in the channel. Sandoval,
with his party, had swum the channel before the Mexicans
assembled there in great numbers, and was now leading the van
down the causeway, scattering the assailants right and left. Little
regular fighting was attempted, the Spaniards being intent on
escaping and the Mexicans quickly yielding before the cavalry, taking
refuge in and round the canoes. With greater hardihood and
success, however, they harassed those on foot. On reaching the
next channel, which was the last, the fugitives found with dismay that
it was wider and deeper than the others, and with bitter regret they
saw their mistake in not bringing three portable bridges. The enemy
was here also gathering in ever increasing force, to watch the death
trap. Every effort to clear a passage was stubbornly resisted, and,
the soldiers growing more irresolute, a rider was sent to bring
Cortés. Before he arrived, however, Sandoval had already plunged
in with a number of the cavalry, followed by foot-soldiers, who seized
the opportunity to fall into the wake, by either holding on to the
trappings of the horses or striking out for themselves. The passage
was extremely difficult, and more than one horseman reeled and fell,
from the united pressure of friends and foes. Those who followed
suffered yet more, being pushed down by comrades, struck by clubs
and stones, pierced by spears, or, most horrible of all, drawn in by
dusky boatmen, who carefully guarded them for the dread stone of
sacrifice.
With five horsemen Cortés led a body of one hundred infantry to
the mainland. Accompanying this force was a number of carriers with
treasures secured by the general and his friends. Leaving the gold in
charge of Jaramillo, with orders to hold the entrance of the causeway
against assailants from the shore, Cortés returned to the channel
where Sandoval had taken a stand to keep clear the bank and
protect the passage. Tidings coming that Alvarado was in danger,
Cortés proceeded to the rear, beyond the second channel, and found
it hotly contested. His opportune arrival infused fresh courage, as
with gallant charges he relieved the troops from the terrible pressure.
He looked in vain for many comrades who had been placed at this
post, and would have gone in search of them had not Alvarado
assured him that all the living were there. He was told that the guns
reserved for the rear had for a while been directed with sweeping
effect against the ever growing masses of warriors around them; but
finally a simultaneous attack from the canoe crews on either side,
and from the land forces to the rear, impelled by their own volume,
had overwhelmed the narrow columns nearest the city, together with
their cannon, killing and capturing a large number, and throwing the
rest into the panic-stricken condition from which he had just
extricated them.
Leaving Alvarado to cover the rear as best he could, Cortés
hastened to direct the passage of the middle channel. What a sight
was there! Of all the bloody terrors of that dark, sorrowful night, this
was the most terrible! A bridge had been wanting, and behold, the
bridge was there! With dead and living fugitives the chasm on either
side the slippery beam had been filled,[831] and now the soldiers and
allies were rushing, heedless of the groans beneath them, across
this gory support, still narrow and full of gaps, to be filled by the next
tripping fugitive. Scattered pell-mell on the bank lay the baggage and
artillery, abandoned by the fleeing carriers, which, proving only an
obstruction, Cortés ordered it thrown into the channel in order to
widen the crossing.
But the end was not yet. Great as had been the woe, it was yet
to be increased at the last and wider channel. Here was indeed a
yawning abyss, having likewise a single remaining beam, whose
narrow slippery surface served rather as a snare than a support.[832]
The necessarily slow motion of the train had enabled the Mexicans
to come up in swarms, and like sharks surround the chasm.
Harassed on every side, and with an avalanche rolling against the
rear, the retreating thought only of escaping the new danger, and at
once. They threw aside their arms and treasures and plunged in,
bearing one another down regardless of any claims of friendship or
humanity. And woful to hear were the heart-rending cries from that
pit of Acheron. Some begged help of Mary and Santiago; some
cursed their fate and him who had brought them to it, while many
sank with mute despair into the arms of death; and over all roared
the wild cries and insults of the Mexicans. In strong contrast to the
panic-stricken men appeared a woman, María de Estrada, who, with
shield and sword, faced the enemy like a lioness, standing forth
among the men as a leader, and astonishing friend and foe with her
prowess.[833]
Cortés did all he could, as became an able commander and
valiant soldier, to save his men. He was indefatigable in his efforts,
being everywhere present, encouraging, guiding, and protecting. Yet
his position was most trying; there were that night so many brave
soldiers given over to despair, so many ears deaf to commands and
prudent counsel. Unable to do more at the channels, he hastened to
look to those who had crossed and were proceeding in straggling
bands to join Jaramillo. Heedless of companies or officers, the
soldiers had banded in parties of a score or two, and sword in hand,
where this had not been thrown away, they were hurrying down the
causeway.[834] The assailants fell off somewhat beyond the last
channel, and finding the advance comparatively safe, guided by his
soldierly impulses Cortés again returned with a few horsemen[835]
and foot-soldiers to cover the remnant of the army. The rear,
composed chiefly of the Narvaez party, were approaching the last
channel, but under the continued onslaught panic had seized them.
They made hardly an effort to defend themselves, and like the
Indians during the massacre by Alvarado they huddled one against
the other, offering their backs as a target for unsparing attack.
Among this number was the loyal and noble Velazquez de Leon,
who shared with the Tonatiuh the command of this section. How he
fell is not known, but he never crossed the last breach.[836]
Alvarado had been wounded and had lost his horse, in common
with most of his party. Finding it impossible to control the men, he
gathered a small band round him and sought the channel, leaving
the rest to look to themselves.[837] On reaching the spot he saw a
confused mass of struggling humanity in the water, but the solitary
beam which spanned it was vacant, and steadying himself with his
lance he sprang swiftly across. Narrow and slippery as was the
beam, it was no insignificant feat for a wounded man to cross upon
it, but time magnified the performance to something miraculous.
When Alvarado came to the channel, it is related, no friendly beam
spanned the wide, deep gap. His life turned on brief resolve and
instant action. Lithe, strong, and determined, even though wounded,
he was not yet ready to yield all. With a searching glance into the
troubled pool and across the awful chasm he stepped back for a
preparatory spring. Then, rushing forward, he planted the long pike
upon the yielding débris and vaulted across, to the wonder of all
witnesses. The Indians, says Camargo, prostrated themselves in
admiration, and tearing up grass, ate it, with the exclamation, “Truly,
this man is the Tonatiuh!” So runs the story, preserved by tradition,
and by the name yet given to the spot, ‘El Salto de Alvarado.’[838]
Cortés and his small band of rescuers came up as Alvarado
appeared, pike in hand and bleeding, accompanied by a few
stragglers.[839] Among these was Juan Tirado, who, in gratitude for
his deliverance, erected at this bridge after the conquest a hermitage
to San Acacio, known also as De los Mártires—martyrs to avarice,
as Torquemada intimates.[840] The badly wounded were now
mounted behind the horsemen,[841] and repelling the foes who still
pressed on them, Cortés in person covered the remnant of the army
in its retreat toward Tlacopan,[842] losing in this final struggle the
gallant Captain Morla.[843] The route lay through Popotla village or
suburb; and here, according to tradition, Cortés seated himself on a
stone to weep over the misfortunes of this Sorrowful Night.[844]
By a similar process of annealing, gold is made soft and iron
hard; so by misfortune the wise man is made wiser while the fool is
hardened in his folly.

FOOTNOTES
[808] According to the version of the rabid Duran, based on native paintings and
narratives, the bodies of the prisoners were found in the fort after its evacuation,
that of Montezuma with five stabs in the breast. Hist. Ind., MS., ii. 477-9. Acosta
seems rather to favor the story, improbable as several of its points are. Hist. Ind.,
524. To some extent it rests on the statement repeated by Ixtlilxochitl, which
assumes that Cacama, who had made himself particularly obnoxious to the
Spaniards, was killed with 47 stabs before the fort was evacuated. Hist. Chich.,
301. A more severe account is found in a manuscript fragment in Ramirez’
collection, written by a Tezcucan, wherein it is related that a sword was thrust into
the intestines, ‘por la parte baxa.’ The body was thereupon taken to the roof, as if
to address the people. A stone struck the head, and now the Spaniards
proclaimed that this had caused the death. Soc. Mex. Geog., Boletin, x. 362. This
is substantially repeated in Ixtlilxochitl, Rel., 457. A stronger testimony, however,
comes from Sahagun, who states that Cortés recommended to his followers the
murder of the prisoners in order to terrify the natives and to assume the mastery.
‘Y lo primero que hicieron, fue dàr Garrote à Motecuhçuma, y à Itzquauhtzin,
Señor de Tlatelolco, y à otros.’ Version in Torquemada, i. 498, and in Sahagun,
Hist. Conq. [ed. 1840], 113. The issue, modified by the censor, merely states that
the bodies were found near a stone, Teoaioc, outside the fort. Id. [ed. 1829], 31.
This account has received its chief support in the quasi admission of Torquemada;
and when he, the otherwise zealous champion of the conquerors, takes such a
view, others may be pardoned for accepting it. ‘Y que esto aia sido asi, puede ser
posible, pues para tenerse por seguros, le avian prendido; y viendo agora, que no
bastaba la prision, vsarian de este vltimo medio, para vèr si le aplacaban, y
atemoriçaban estos Mexicanos.’ i. 498-9. Brasseur de Bourbourg accepts the
version, and adds that Montezuma was told of his fate and urged to accept
baptism. ‘On répandit aussitôt la nouvelle de sa mort comme s’il eût expiré
naturellement.’ Hence even the soldiers did not know of the murder. Hist. Nat. Civ.,
iv. 330-1. Bustamante, of course, adopts anything Sahagun may say against the
Spaniards; and Carbajal takes Torquemada’s view, Hist. Mex., ii. 375, as does
Beltrami, eager for any sensation. Mex., ii. 145. Vetancurt seeks to reconcile
conflicting opinions by assuming that when Montezuma died Itzquauhtzin and
several other prisoners were murdered and cast out together with the emperor’s
body, in order to terrify the Mexicans and occupy their attention while the
Spaniards hurried away. Teatro Mex., pt. iii. 142. ‘Io non posso persuadermi,’ says
Clavigero, ‘che gli Spagnuoli si risolvessero a toglier la vita ad un Re, a cui
doveano tanti beni, e dalla cui morte non potevano aspettarsi, se non molti mali.’
Storia Mess., iii. 131. Solis cannot believe Cortés guilty of an act so bad and
reckless. Hist. Mex., ii. 150-1. Prescott disposes of the charge as an ‘absurdity’
and a ‘monstrous imputation.’ Hist. Mex., ii. 321. It must be considered, however,
that the Spaniards did seek to profit by the death; and scruples about ‘killing a dog
of an Indian,’ as they had so lately termed him, could not have weighed with such
men when their interests were concerned; how much less when their lives were at
stake? The whole argument, then, may be said to depend on the question whether
Montezuma was more valuable as captive or as corpse. If the people manifested
little respect for the living ruler, the Spaniards could have had no reason to expect
more for the dead. His death would only have loosened the bond which still
restrained a vast number, whether of kindred or of mere subjects, and given the
hostile leaders fresh motives and strength for their operations. Besides,
Montezuma must have retained a great influence outside the city, which a fugitive
army would have found of service. The recognition of this influence is shown by
the efforts made to save the imperial children, as noticed even by the most rabid
accusers of the Spaniards. It may be mentioned that no charge is brought forward
in the residencias either against Cortés or Alvarado.

[809] Apanecatl, according to Brasseur de Bourbourg, Hist. Nat. Civ., iv. 332.
Bernal Diaz sends these men to carry the news of the death, and following them
were six high personages and most of the captive priests, carrying the body. Hist.
Verdad., 105.

[810] Stones were thrown upon the cortege, and it was driven from quarter to
quarter. Finally Apanecatl took refuge in the palace where Cuitlahuatzin held forth,
and appealed to him, only to be repulsed by his courtiers. The body was
nevertheless secured by a friendly party. Manuscrit Nahuatl, 1576, in Brasseur de
Bourbourg, Hist. Nat. Civ., iv. 333.
[811] ‘Hicieron todas las solemnidades que solian hacer ... Mocthecuzoma lo
enterraron en México ... algunos decian mal de Mocthecuzoma porque habia sido
muy cruel.’ Hist. Conq., 31. ‘Vimos q̄ hizierõ muy gran llanto, q̄ biẽ oimos las
gritas, y aullidos q̄ por èl dauan.’ Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 105. ‘Hizieron muy
gran llanto, para enterrar al rey en Chapultepec.’ Gomara, Hist. Mex., 154.
Herrera combines these two authorities in saying ‘le deuieron de enterrar en el
monte de Chapultepèque, porque alli se oyò vn gran llanto.’ dec. ii. lib. x. cap. x.
He forgets that Chapultepec lay three miles off. Torquemada corrects Herrera, and
insists that the ‘Copalco’ was the place. He gives specimens of the insults offered
during the cremation, i. 499. ‘Estaban indignados contra él.’ Ixtlilxochitl, Hist.
Chich., 301. It has been asserted by some, says Duran, that the ashes were
scattered to the winds, as unworthy of preservation. Hist. Ind., MS., ii. 479. Acosta
attempts a modification by stating that the body being contemptuously rejected, a
servant burned it, ‘y puso sus cenizas dõde pudo en lugar harto desechado.’ Hist.
Ind., 524. The burial-place has certainly not been pointed out to posterity.
According to Sahagun, the body of Itzquauhtzin was ‘cast forth’ from the quarters,
together with that of Montezuma, and was taken in charge by his subjects of
Tlatelulco, by whom he was greatly beloved and mourned. ubi sup. To ‘cast forth’
the bodies could have been only a needless insult, which Cortés was too prudent
to inflict on the people.

[812] ‘Que alçassen a su primo del Monteçuma, que con nosotros estaua, por
Rey.’ Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 105. ‘Dixo Cortes ... el se queria hallar a sus
honras.’ Herrera, dec. ii. lib. x. cap. x.

[813] Prescott, following Clavigero, assumes that the whole was an artifice to
liberate the two captive priests, one of whom was indispensable in the event of a
coronation. Mex., ii. 338. Brasseur de Bourbourg supposes that the parley was
conducted by the party favorable to the Spaniards, and duped by the stronger
faction, which never intended to adhere to the arrangement. Hist. Nat. Civ., 321.

[814] ‘Como los peones estaban cansados y heridos y atemorizados; ... ninguno
me siguió. A cuya causa, después de pasadas yo las puentes ... las hallé
tomadas.’ Cortés, Cartas, 134. Where had he left his prudence?

[815] ‘Hallé á todos los de caballo que conmigo iban, caidos en ella, y un caballo
suelto.’ Id.

[816] With a loss of over twenty men. Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 105. This author
places all the fighting on the causeway on one day, a Thursday, the day of
evacuating Mexico, and the day following the surrender of Montezuma’s body.
Herrera, who is far more confused, has a sally on this day in three directions, one
being the Tlacopan road; but the operations on the latter route are only partially
told, and the rest referred to the third day of the siege. There are also several
contradictions to aid in confusing the many who follow him. Herrera, dec. ii. lib. x.
cap. xi. Prescott abandons himself to the guidance of Clavigero for the
occurrences of these days, but embellishes the narrative with some incidents
belonging to the siege of Alvarado.

[817] ‘Botello ... afirmò que ... supiessen que moriria el o su hermano, y algunos
de la cõpañia, y qui se saluaria el Capitan, y otros muchos, y ninguno si salian de
dia.’ Herrera, dec. ii. lib. x. cap. xi. ‘Hora lo creyesen, hora no.’ Gomara, Hist.
Mex., 159. ‘Anteponendo le vane osservazioni di quel meschino Soldato alla luce
della prudenza militare,’ is the indignant comment of Clavigero, Storia Mess., iii.
135. But there is no doubt that ‘military prudence’ had more weight in the matter
than Botello’s words, and that the result was not due to his advice. Solis casts the
blame of crediting the ‘ignorant charlatan’ Botello chiefly on the majority of the
council, to whom Cortés yielded. Hist. Mex., ii. 171-2. In order to lull any
suspicions among the Mexicans, says Bernal Diaz, a leading priest and some
other captives were sent to the Mexican camp with a proposal to surrender all the
gold if the Spaniards were allowed to leave in peace eight days later. Hist.
Verdad., 105.

[818] Lejalde, Segunda Prob., in Icazbalceta, Col. Doc., ii. 424. For carrying the
royal treasures ‘les dió siete cauallos heridos, y cojos, y vna yegua, y muchos
Indios Tlascaltecas, que segun dixeron, fueron mas de ochenta.’ Bernal Diaz,
Hist. Verdad., 106.

[819] Bernal Diaz, for instance, states that he had hardly taken the four
chalchiuites for his share, from a collection in a mat, when Cortés gave orders to
his mayordomo to secure it. loc. cit. His penchant for appropriating large shares to
himself is well known. Greed of gold was not now his motive, however, but rather a
prudential care to secure means for his plans, and he could hardly neglect them
when taking so great care of the royal portion. Martyr, Gomara, and Herrera
estimate the treasure at 700,000 ducats, chiefly in bulky jewels according to
Gomara. Bernal Diaz reckons in pesos, which may mean pesos de oro. Peter
Martyr assumes it to have been the general fund, from which the royal fifth had
been set apart only at the last moment, but not apportioned. dec. v. cap. vi. Solis
assumes that 700,000 pesos remained after the king’s portion had been deducted.
Hist. Mex., 174-5. One witness estimates that over 2,000,000 pesos were lost
during that night. Cortés, Residencia, ii. 414. The Carta del Ejército reduces the
loss to 400,000 pesos de oro. Another witness states that 300,000 castellanos
remained when the soldiers were told to help themselves; afterward the general
compelled them to surrender what had been thus given, only to keep it for himself.
Cortés, Residencia, i. 241-2. ‘Lo demás ... lo dimos y repartimos por los españoles
para que lo sacasen,’ says Cortés, Cartas, 135, which may be interpreted as
either giving or intrusting. Whatever may have been left after the Spaniards had
taken their loads was gleaned by the allies. Gomara, Hist. Mex., 159.

[820] Bernal Diaz gives Sandoval 100 young unmarried soldiers, with Francisco de
Acevedo, the dandy, Ordaz, Tapia, and eight or nine of Narvaez’ men, captains on
his staff. To Cortés he gives 50 men, and adds B. V. de Tapia to his staff. Hist.
Verdad., 105. This author is contradictory, however. Herrera places Antonio de
Quiñones as Sandoval’s chief aid, and Olid and Ordaz in the rear. dec. ii. lib. x.
cap. xi.; Gomara, Hist. Mex., 160; Cortés, Cartas, 134; Ramirez, Proceso contra
Alvarado, 30 et seq.

[821] Herrera adds a brother of Montezuma, and Sahagun names two sons. Hist.
Conq., 33. So does Vetancurt, although he assumes that one was saved. Teatro
Mex., pt. iii. 142-3. Ixtlilxochitl gives a longer list, including two sons of
Montezuma, and two sons and four daughters of Nezahualpilli, of Tezcuco. One of
the daughters escaped, but it was not the beloved of Cortés, who had been
baptized and named Juana. Cacama is not included in the list, because he is
assumed to have been stabbed to death before the fort was evacuated. Hist.
Chich., 302; Relaciones, 390. With the prisoners’ division went Marina, the
interpreter, the Tlascaltec princesses Luisa and Elvira, and some other women,
protected, says Bernal Diaz, by 30 soldiers and 300 Tlascaltecs.

[822] This date is based on Cortés’ letter, wherein he places the arrival on
Tlascala’s border on Sunday, July 8th, after giving a clear account of the
intermediate days. Any doubt about this date is removed by the testimony in
Lejalde, Segunda Probanza, in Icazbalceta, Col. Doc., i. 423, wherein the leading
captains state that the siege lasted six days. This testimony also clears up the only
doubtful point in Cortés’ account of the siege operations, where he disposes of the
wounding and death of Montezuma in one sentence, and then resumes the
description of the fighting in a manner that has assisted to mislead Gomara and
many others into extending the stay in Mexico till July 10th. Ixtlilxochitl adopts this
date, yet in the Relaciones, 390, 412-13, he states that the siege lasted only
seven days. Bernal Diaz places the eve of the departure on a Thursday, July 10th
[with Cortés it is Saturday], yet he dates the battle of Otumba just one week later
than Cortés. Hist. Verdad., 105, 108. This latter date induces Zamacois to change
the date of flight to July 8th. Hist. Méj., iii. 406-7. ‘La notte del 1 Luglio,’ says
Clavigero, Storia Mess., iii. 135, but his reasons for the date are wrong, and the
term he uses may apply also to the night following that adopted in the text.

[823] The Spaniards recognized this as a favoring shield direct from God, says
Duran, Hist. Ind., MS., ii. 473-4.

[824] Ojeda was instructed to see that no somnolent or sick person was left. He
found one man asleep on the roof and roused him. Herrera, dec. ii. lib. x. cap. xi.
Gomara takes the trouble to deny the statement of Cano that 270 men, ignorant of
Cortés’ departure, were left behind to perish. Oviedo, iii. 551. A later note will
explain the cause of this rumor.

[825] The ravaging sallies of the preceding days, which had involved the
destruction of houses in the vicinity and along the approaches to Tlacopan, had
evidently obliged the enemy to retire from these streets and seek shelter
elsewhere for the night. Oviedo assumes that Cortés led the way, but Diaz and
Herrera let him advance only when the first troops are guided into Tlacopan.

[826] ‘Pasaron cuatro acequias, y antes que pasasen las demas salió vna muger
á tomar agua y viólos.’ Sahagun, Hist. Conq., 32. ‘A devil, without doubt,’ adds
Camargo, who describes her as a keeper of an eating-house, and indicates
exactly the location of her house. Hist. Tlax., 167. Cortés states that the alarm was
given by the guard at the first breach held by the Mexicans, where the portable
bridge was laid down. Cartas, 136.

[827] Sahagun names this Mictlantonco, and the next two Tlantecayocan and
Petlacalco. In another place he names the first Tecpantzinco, and the second or
third Tolteacali. Hist. Conq., loc. cit., and [ed. 1840] 121-2. Torquemada gives the
second breach of the causeway the latter name. The names should probably be
written Tecpantzinco, Tolteca-Acalulco, and Petlacalco.

[828] This native rumor, as recorded in the manuscripts used by Duran, Hist. Ind.,
MS., ii. 476-7, is probably the foundation for Cano’s statement, that Cortés
abandoned 270 men in the fort. Herrera reduces them to 100. ‘Que se boluieron a
la torre del templo, adonde se hizieron fuertes tres dias.’ dec. ii. lib. x. cap. xii.

[829] Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 106, assumes that the enemy bore it down before
the baggage train had crossed, and that the channel was filled in consequence
with artillery, baggage, and dead bodies. Gomara gets the bridge across the
second breach. Both must be mistaken, however.

[830] Camargo relates the incidents of the passage in detail, and says that Cortés
fell into a hole as the enemy pounced upon him. The two deliverers disputed the
honor of having rescued the general. Hist. Tlax., 169.

[831] ‘El foso se hinchó hasta arriba; ... y los de la retroguardia pasaron sobre los
muertos. Los españoles que aquí quedaron muertos fueron trescientos, y de los
tlaxcaltecas y otros indios amigos fueron mas de dos mil.’ Sahagun, Hist. Conq.
(ed. 1840), 122.

[832] Ramirez, Proceso contra Alvarado, 4, 53, 68.

[833] ‘Casò esta Señora, con Pedro Sanchez Farfan [who seized Narvaez], y
dieronle en Encomienda el Pueblo de Tetela.’ She married a second time, and
died in Puebla. Torquemada, i. 504.

[834] Bernal Diaz formed one of a band of 50, who were repeatedly attacked with
arms and midst insults. He quotes some of the low expressions used. Hist.
Verdad., 106.

[835] One authority states that Cortés was nearing Tlacopan, when Olid and
others called out to him that the fugitives were accusing the captains of
abandoning them, and urged that they should turn back. ‘It is a miracle to have
escaped,’ was his reply, ‘and fewer will be left if we return.’ Saying this he headed
a dozen horsemen and a few foot-soldiers and galloped back. Bernal Diaz, Hist.
Verdad., 106. But Cortés was not the man to wait in such a case till entreaty came.
‘Yo con tres ó cuatro de caballo,’ he says, ‘y hasta veinte peones, que osaron
quedar conmigo, me fuí en la rezaga.’ Cartas, 135. He takes the palm from all
American conquerors, exclaims Oviedo, iii. 326.

[836] Zamacois makes atonement for a lack of research by inventing doughty

deeds for this hero. Hist. Méj., iii. 417-18.

[837] Among the soldiers contributed in later times by Garay’s expedition was one
Ocampo, who, fond of scandal and pasquinades, libelled many of the captains,
among them Alvarado, declaring that he had left Velazquez with over 200 men to
die. Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 106-7. The charge came forward in the residencia,
but Alvarado brought witnesses to prove that he had lost all control over the men,
and could do nothing else than to save himself, wounded and unhorsed as he
was. There were other witnesses who did all they could to blacken his fame, and
to attribute to his neglect of duty a great portion of the loss sustained during that
sad night. Ramirez, Proceso, 4, 38, 53, 68, and 288. Ramirez decides against the
accused. But Alvarado was admittedly brave, recklessly so, and it must be
regarded rather as his misfortune that a panic seized the men. Perhaps, as
commander intrusted with this section, he should have remained longer at his
post. This signified death, and such men as then comprised his command he
regarded as hardly worth dying for. He chose to save life at the expense of a
blemish on his honor. More it never amounted to, for the court absolved him. He
redeemed the fault afterward by brave achievements.

[838] Camargo intimates that several Tlascalan chiefs of the expedition testified to
the feat. Hist. Tlax., 168; and Gomara adds that several followers tried to imitate it,
but failed, and were drowned. Hist. Mex., 160. Contradictory as Bernal Diaz is
about the incidents of the night, he strenuously insists that the channel was
examined during the following siege and found to be too wide and too deep to
allow of such a leap. Hist. Verdad., 107. This solitary denial of a story which has
been adopted by almost every writer, from Oviedo to Prescott, finds support in
testimony during the hero’s residencia, wherein it is distinctly stated that he
crossed the channel on a fixed beam. His own testimony gives assent to the
charge so formulated, although hitherto he had no doubt allowed the other version
to be believed. Ramirez, Proceso, 4, 53, 68 et seq.

[839] Seven Spaniards and eight Tlascaltecs, all badly wounded. Bernal Diaz,
Hist. Verdad., 106.

[840] ‘Durò poco este nombre, pues tampoco les convenia à los muertos, que iban
cargados de Oro.’ Monarq. Ind., i. 504. Zamacois describes the site as he found it
not long ago. Hist. Méj., iii. 421-3. Bernal Diaz implies that the ‘martyr’ name was
given in honor of those captured and sacrificed during the siege, a year later. Hist.
Verdad., 153.

[841] Alvarado was taken on Gamboa’s horse, Laso on Sandoval’s. Ramirez,

Proceso contra Alvarado, 69, 119.

[842] Alvarado said that only the dead remained behind, but Olid insisted that a
number were still fighting the enemy. Cortés accordingly went back again and
rescued several more. Castañeda, in Id., 44. Bernal Diaz also states that Cortés
returned as far as the bridges. Hist. Verdad., 106.

[843] The same who sprang into the sea, off Yucatan, to replace the rudder of his
vessel, unshipped during the storm.

[844] La Noche Triste, as it has ever since been called. Amid so much that is
romantic the tendency to further romance is often uncontrollable. The truth of this
statement is open to grave doubts. ‘Llegó [Alvarado] á Cortés, que estaba ençima
de unas gradas de un qü, sentado diçiendo muchas lástimas.’ Oviedo, iii. 514.
Zamacois describes the enormous tree, yet standing, which shaded the stone and
bears the name of ‘Arbol de la Noche Triste.’ Hist. Méj., iii. 424. Prescott improves
the occasion by allowing the army to file past in sad dilapidation, regardless of the
fact that the army was already gathered in Tlacopan. Mex., ii. 371-2. Testimony
confirms the statement of Cortés that ‘fuí en la rezaga, peleando con los indios
hasta llegar á una ciudad que se dice Tacuba’ [Tlacopan]. Cartas, 135-6.
 CHAPTER XXVII.
RETREAT TO TLASCALA.

July, 1520.

Fatal Mistake of the Mexicans—A Brief Respite Allowed the Spaniards—

The Remnant of the Army at Tlacopan—They Set out for Tlascala—An
ever increasing Force at their Heels—Rest at the Tepzolac Temple—
Cortés Reviews his Disasters—The March Continued amidst Great
Tribulation—Encounter of the Grand Army—Important Battle and
Remarkable Victory—Arrival at Tlascala—The Friendly Reception
Accorded them There.

What would Emperor Charles have said to Hernan Cortés had

they met on the morning after the Sorrowful Night! It is related of
Xerxes that with a golden crown he rewarded a pilot who had saved
his life, and thereupon ordered him beheaded for having sacrificed in
the operation the lives of so many of his Persian subjects. Now
Cortés had not saved the emperor’s life, nor yet the emperor’s gold;
he had sacrificed many lives, and had little to show for them. Had
Charles been there, and had he valued Spaniards as did Xerxes
Persians, he might have cut off the Estremaduran’s head; but Cortés
was yet worth to Charles more than all that had been thus far lost in
New Spain.
Prosperity implies ability; adversity, weakness of mind and
character. In the high-souled and chivalrous, prosperity tends to yet
loftier heights, while adversity sinks the unfortunate still lower;