[129]This is the first printed reference to the bison.
[129]This is the first printed reference to the bison.
[130]In an article on the wanderings of Cabeza de Vaca, by Ponton and McFarland (Texas Historical Association Quarterly, I. 176, map, 1898), the northern limit of the cactus belt is placed on a line extending irregularly westward from the mouth of the Colorado River of Texas.
[130]In an article on the wanderings of Cabeza de Vaca, by Ponton and McFarland (Texas Historical Association Quarterly, I. 176, map, 1898), the northern limit of the cactus belt is placed on a line extending irregularly westward from the mouth of the Colorado River of Texas.
[131]1534. Cabeza de Vaca had evidently lost his reckoning (perhaps during his illness), as the date of the new moon in this year was September 8.
[131]1534. Cabeza de Vaca had evidently lost his reckoning (perhaps during his illness), as the date of the new moon in this year was September 8.
[132]Anagadosin the 1542 edition. The tribe cannot be identified, although it may be well known under some other name.Anegadois Spanish for "overflowed," "inundated," but it is by no means certain that the Spaniards applied this name to them. Buckingham Smith suggests that they may have been the Nacadoch (Nacogdoches), but this does not seem probable, as the latter tribe lived very far to the northeast of the point where the Spaniards now were, that is, some thirty leagues inland from the coast between latitude 28° and 29°. The name sounds more likeNădáko, the designation which the Anadarcos give themselves. This Caddoan tribe, when first known, lived high up on the Brazos and the Trinity, but in 1812 their village was on the Sabine. They are now incorporated with the Caddo in Oklahoma.
[132]Anagadosin the 1542 edition. The tribe cannot be identified, although it may be well known under some other name.Anegadois Spanish for "overflowed," "inundated," but it is by no means certain that the Spaniards applied this name to them. Buckingham Smith suggests that they may have been the Nacadoch (Nacogdoches), but this does not seem probable, as the latter tribe lived very far to the northeast of the point where the Spaniards now were, that is, some thirty leagues inland from the coast between latitude 28° and 29°. The name sounds more likeNădáko, the designation which the Anadarcos give themselves. This Caddoan tribe, when first known, lived high up on the Brazos and the Trinity, but in 1812 their village was on the Sabine. They are now incorporated with the Caddo in Oklahoma.
[133]Camolesin ch. 26. They evidently lived toward the northeast, north of Malhado Island; unidentified.
[133]Camolesin ch. 26. They evidently lived toward the northeast, north of Malhado Island; unidentified.
[134]Esquivel.
[134]Esquivel.
[135]Estévanico.
[135]Estévanico.
[136]A shaman, or "medicine-man."
[136]A shaman, or "medicine-man."
[137]Chavavaresin ch. 26, in which it is said that they joined the Mariames. Their affinity is unknown. The statement that the Spaniards are again among these tribes suggests that they were now pursuing a northerly direction.
[137]Chavavaresin ch. 26, in which it is said that they joined the Mariames. Their affinity is unknown. The statement that the Spaniards are again among these tribes suggests that they were now pursuing a northerly direction.
[138]The Mariames. See note to ch. 26, respecting these tribes.
[138]The Mariames. See note to ch. 26, respecting these tribes.
[139]This may have been the San Antonio or the San Marcos-Guadalupe.
[139]This may have been the San Antonio or the San Marcos-Guadalupe.
[140]Presumably the river last mentioned, where they had erected their shelters.
[140]Presumably the river last mentioned, where they had erected their shelters.
[141]Cultalchulches in ch. 26 (q. v.), and in the edition of 1542.
[141]Cultalchulches in ch. 26 (q. v.), and in the edition of 1542.
[142]These were possibly the Adai, or Adaize, although their country was in northeastern Texas, about Red River and the Sabine; nevertheless they may have wandered very far during the prickly-pear season. There is evidence that in 1792, fourteen families of the Adai migrated to a region south of San Antonio de Béjar, where they were merged with the tribes living thereabout. The main body, although greatly reduced, did not leave their old home until the nineteenth century, when the remnant, who had been missionized, were incorporated with their kindred the Caddo.
[142]These were possibly the Adai, or Adaize, although their country was in northeastern Texas, about Red River and the Sabine; nevertheless they may have wandered very far during the prickly-pear season. There is evidence that in 1792, fourteen families of the Adai migrated to a region south of San Antonio de Béjar, where they were merged with the tribes living thereabout. The main body, although greatly reduced, did not leave their old home until the nineteenth century, when the remnant, who had been missionized, were incorporated with their kindred the Caddo.
[143]It is not uncommon for all the possessions of an Indian, including his dwelling, to be destroyed at the time of his death. In recent times this custom has had the tendency, as among the Navahos, for example, to cause them to adhere to their simple aboriginal form of dwellings instead of to go to the trouble of erecting substantial houses that might have to be demolished.
[143]It is not uncommon for all the possessions of an Indian, including his dwelling, to be destroyed at the time of his death. In recent times this custom has had the tendency, as among the Navahos, for example, to cause them to adhere to their simple aboriginal form of dwellings instead of to go to the trouble of erecting substantial houses that might have to be demolished.
[144]See page 19, note 5.
[144]See page 19, note 5.
[145]See chap. 26.
[145]See chap. 26.
[146]Buckingham Smith prefers this meaning fori en tiempo que muere el Pescadoto "by the time when the fish die," or "at times at which the fishes die."
[146]Buckingham Smith prefers this meaning fori en tiempo que muere el Pescadoto "by the time when the fish die," or "at times at which the fishes die."
[147]That is, until the summer of 1535.
[147]That is, until the summer of 1535.
[148]See ch. 27: "By the coast live those called Quitoks, and in front inward on the main are the Chavavares, to whom adjoin the Maliacones, the Cultalchulches and others called Susolas and the Comos." This would seem to indicate that he was journeying in a generally northward or north-westward direction.
[148]See ch. 27: "By the coast live those called Quitoks, and in front inward on the main are the Chavavares, to whom adjoin the Maliacones, the Cultalchulches and others called Susolas and the Comos." This would seem to indicate that he was journeying in a generally northward or north-westward direction.
[149]The name suggests the Bidai, a Caddoan tribe that lived at a later period west of the Trinity, about latitude 31°, but this locality does not agree with the narrative.
[149]The name suggests the Bidai, a Caddoan tribe that lived at a later period west of the Trinity, about latitude 31°, but this locality does not agree with the narrative.
[150]Elsewhere called Doguenes.
[150]Elsewhere called Doguenes.
[151]Guevenes in the edition of 1542.
[151]Guevenes in the edition of 1542.
[152]Cabeza de Vaca is now evidently recalling the experience of Narvaez's men in Florida.
[152]Cabeza de Vaca is now evidently recalling the experience of Narvaez's men in Florida.
[153]In the 1542 edition these tribal names are similarly spelled except in the case of Capoques, Charruco, Deguenes, Yeguaces, Decubadaos (for Acubadaos), Quitoles (for Quitoks), Chauauares, and Camolas. None of these Indians have thus far been conclusively identified with later historical tribes, with the possible exception of the Atayos and the Quevenes. See p. 76, note 2, and p. 59, note 1.
[153]In the 1542 edition these tribal names are similarly spelled except in the case of Capoques, Charruco, Deguenes, Yeguaces, Decubadaos (for Acubadaos), Quitoles (for Quitoks), Chauauares, and Camolas. None of these Indians have thus far been conclusively identified with later historical tribes, with the possible exception of the Atayos and the Quevenes. See p. 76, note 2, and p. 59, note 1.
[154]In the 1542 edition, as given by Mrs. Bandelier, "Among them is a language wherein they call menmira aca,arraca, and dogsxo." Compareháka, "sit down," in Karankawa (Gatschet,Karankawa Indians, Cambridge, Mass., 1891, p. 80). In the above it would appear as if the Spanishmirahad been regarded as a part of the Indian exclamation.
[154]In the 1542 edition, as given by Mrs. Bandelier, "Among them is a language wherein they call menmira aca,arraca, and dogsxo." Compareháka, "sit down," in Karankawa (Gatschet,Karankawa Indians, Cambridge, Mass., 1891, p. 80). In the above it would appear as if the Spanishmirahad been regarded as a part of the Indian exclamation.
[155]The tree from which the so-called "black drink" is made isIlex cassine, and the custom of preparing and partaking of the liquid (known also as Carolina tea) was general among the tribes of the South, including the Gulf coast. The drink was known among the Catawbas asyaupon, among the Creeks asássi-lupútski, the latter signifying "small leaves," commonly abbreviatedássi, whence the name of the celebrated Seminole chiefOsceola,i.e., "Black-drink Hallooer," or "Black-drink Singer." The partaking of the black drink was an important part of thepuskita, orbusk, ceremony among the Creeks.
[155]The tree from which the so-called "black drink" is made isIlex cassine, and the custom of preparing and partaking of the liquid (known also as Carolina tea) was general among the tribes of the South, including the Gulf coast. The drink was known among the Catawbas asyaupon, among the Creeks asássi-lupútski, the latter signifying "small leaves," commonly abbreviatedássi, whence the name of the celebrated Seminole chiefOsceola,i.e., "Black-drink Hallooer," or "Black-drink Singer." The partaking of the black drink was an important part of thepuskita, orbusk, ceremony among the Creeks.
[156]The Arbadaos or Acubadaos. See chs. 22, 23.
[156]The Arbadaos or Acubadaos. See chs. 22, 23.
[157]The mesquite (Prosopis juliflora). The beans are still extensively used as food by the Indians of southern Arizona and northern Mexico.
[157]The mesquite (Prosopis juliflora). The beans are still extensively used as food by the Indians of southern Arizona and northern Mexico.
[158]See p. 52, note 3.
[158]See p. 52, note 3.
[159]Probably the Colorado River. Buckingham Smith remarks that the Guadalquivir at Seville is about a hundred paces in width.
[159]Probably the Colorado River. Buckingham Smith remarks that the Guadalquivir at Seville is about a hundred paces in width.
[160]The Pueblo Indians of New Mexico have cultivated gourds for use as rattles and receptacles, especially dippers, from time immemorial. If the Pecos were the stream, or one of the streams, whence the gourds were derived, they might have come from the pueblo of Pecos, southeast of the present Santa Fé; if from the Rio Grande, they might have come from various villages along that river and its tributaries in the north. See p. 95, note 1.
[160]The Pueblo Indians of New Mexico have cultivated gourds for use as rattles and receptacles, especially dippers, from time immemorial. If the Pecos were the stream, or one of the streams, whence the gourds were derived, they might have come from the pueblo of Pecos, southeast of the present Santa Fé; if from the Rio Grande, they might have come from various villages along that river and its tributaries in the north. See p. 95, note 1.
[161]Probably the escarpment that extends from Austin to Eagle Pass. The Colorado (which was probably the wide, deep stream previously encountered) was crossed seemingly below the present Austin. It should be remembered that the information regarding the point at which the mountains commenced to rise was given by Indians whose language the Spaniards could not understand. At any rate, the fact that the latter believed the mountains to rise fifteen leagues from the sea would tend to indicate that the direction they had been following was a northerly one. See the statement in the following paragraph of the text.
[161]Probably the escarpment that extends from Austin to Eagle Pass. The Colorado (which was probably the wide, deep stream previously encountered) was crossed seemingly below the present Austin. It should be remembered that the information regarding the point at which the mountains commenced to rise was given by Indians whose language the Spaniards could not understand. At any rate, the fact that the latter believed the mountains to rise fifteen leagues from the sea would tend to indicate that the direction they had been following was a northerly one. See the statement in the following paragraph of the text.
[162]According to Oviedo (p. 617): "This is an error of the printer, and should read 'little bags of margarite [pearl-mica],' instead of silver." Buckingham Smith translates Oviedo'smargarita, "pearls," and Cabeza de Vaca'smargarita(ch. 29) as "marquesite." It may be added that magnetic iron ore of the highest quality occurs in Mason County, Texas.
[162]According to Oviedo (p. 617): "This is an error of the printer, and should read 'little bags of margarite [pearl-mica],' instead of silver." Buckingham Smith translates Oviedo'smargarita, "pearls," and Cabeza de Vaca'smargarita(ch. 29) as "marquesite." It may be added that magnetic iron ore of the highest quality occurs in Mason County, Texas.
[163]In the face of such an assertion it is difficult to conceive that the Spaniards had been journeying directly westward, away from the coast.
[163]In the face of such an assertion it is difficult to conceive that the Spaniards had been journeying directly westward, away from the coast.
[164]That is, they decided to change their course from northward to a more westward direction.
[164]That is, they decided to change their course from northward to a more westward direction.
[165]The possession of one of these "medicine" rattles was not improbably one of the causes of the death of Estévanico at the hands of the Zuñis of Cibola in 1539. See the Introduction, and compare p. 90, note 2; p. 117, note 2.
[165]The possession of one of these "medicine" rattles was not improbably one of the causes of the death of Estévanico at the hands of the Zuñis of Cibola in 1539. See the Introduction, and compare p. 90, note 2; p. 117, note 2.
[166]See p. 97, note 1.
[166]See p. 97, note 1.
[167]See pp. 92-93, note 2, regarding the occurrence of magnetic iron in Mason County, where it is found in great quantities, but is yet unworked.
[167]See pp. 92-93, note 2, regarding the occurrence of magnetic iron in Mason County, where it is found in great quantities, but is yet unworked.
[168]Perhaps the Llano, a branch of the Colorado, or possibly they had met the Colorado again. See p. 90, note 1.
[168]Perhaps the Llano, a branch of the Colorado, or possibly they had met the Colorado again. See p. 90, note 1.
[169]See p. 92, note 2. In the edition of 1542 the text here sayssilver.
[169]See p. 92, note 2. In the edition of 1542 the text here sayssilver.
[170]Lead is found in Texas in the trans-Pecos region. The mineral resources of the state have not yet been well exploited.
[170]Lead is found in Texas in the trans-Pecos region. The mineral resources of the state have not yet been well exploited.
[171]Doubtless the nut pine (Pinus edulis). Cabeza de Vaca evidently here aims to describe the character of this tree and its fruit without necessarily asserting that the tree was found growing very far east of the Pecos. In the valley of the latter stream it is more or less prolific.
[171]Doubtless the nut pine (Pinus edulis). Cabeza de Vaca evidently here aims to describe the character of this tree and its fruit without necessarily asserting that the tree was found growing very far east of the Pecos. In the valley of the latter stream it is more or less prolific.
[172]The allusion is probably to Mexico rather than to a northern country, as previously asserted by the Indians. See the second preceding paragraph.
[172]The allusion is probably to Mexico rather than to a northern country, as previously asserted by the Indians. See the second preceding paragraph.
[173]Of this exchange of gifts, or perhaps we may call it plunder, there was an echo a few years later, when Coronado and his army were traversing the eastern part of the Staked Plain, under the guidance of the "Turk," in search of Quivira, in 1541. Before sending the army back, and while among the ravines of western Texas, Rodrigo Maldonado was sent forward to explore, and in four days reached a deep ravine in the bottom of which was a village that Cabeza de Vaca had visited, on which account (see p. 332) "they presented Don Rodrigo with a pile of tanned skins and other things." An unfair distribution being threatened, the men rushed upon the skins and took possession without further ado. "The women and some others were left crying, because they thought that the strangers were not going to take anything, but would bless them as Cabeza de Vaca and Dorantes had donewhen they passed through here." Captain Jaramillo does not mention this occurrence in his narrative (Fourteenth Report of the Bureau of American Ethnology, p. 588), but he speaks of reaching a settlement of Indians, in advance of that, according to the narrations, of which Castañeda speaks, "among whom there was an old blind man with a beard, who gave us to understand by signs which he made, that he had seen four others like us many days before, whom he had seen near there and rather more toward New Spain [Mexico], and we so understood him, and presumed that it was Dorantes and Cabeza de Vaca and those whom I have mentioned." Although we do not have here conclusive evidence that Cabeza de Vaca actually visited the village or villages mentioned, there is no question that he must have been in this vicinity, and as the evidence is strong that the Rio Colorado was the ravined stream alluded to, there is little likelihood that Cabeza de Vaca's route lay far below that river.
[173]Of this exchange of gifts, or perhaps we may call it plunder, there was an echo a few years later, when Coronado and his army were traversing the eastern part of the Staked Plain, under the guidance of the "Turk," in search of Quivira, in 1541. Before sending the army back, and while among the ravines of western Texas, Rodrigo Maldonado was sent forward to explore, and in four days reached a deep ravine in the bottom of which was a village that Cabeza de Vaca had visited, on which account (see p. 332) "they presented Don Rodrigo with a pile of tanned skins and other things." An unfair distribution being threatened, the men rushed upon the skins and took possession without further ado. "The women and some others were left crying, because they thought that the strangers were not going to take anything, but would bless them as Cabeza de Vaca and Dorantes had donewhen they passed through here." Captain Jaramillo does not mention this occurrence in his narrative (Fourteenth Report of the Bureau of American Ethnology, p. 588), but he speaks of reaching a settlement of Indians, in advance of that, according to the narrations, of which Castañeda speaks, "among whom there was an old blind man with a beard, who gave us to understand by signs which he made, that he had seen four others like us many days before, whom he had seen near there and rather more toward New Spain [Mexico], and we so understood him, and presumed that it was Dorantes and Cabeza de Vaca and those whom I have mentioned." Although we do not have here conclusive evidence that Cabeza de Vaca actually visited the village or villages mentioned, there is no question that he must have been in this vicinity, and as the evidence is strong that the Rio Colorado was the ravined stream alluded to, there is little likelihood that Cabeza de Vaca's route lay far below that river.
[174]The Pueblo Indians of New Mexico have similar communal rabbit-hunts, in which the animals are killed with a curved stick shaped somewhat like a boomerang.
[174]The Pueblo Indians of New Mexico have similar communal rabbit-hunts, in which the animals are killed with a curved stick shaped somewhat like a boomerang.
[175]Evidently the Pecos. This is the first stream mentioned as flowing from the north.
[175]Evidently the Pecos. This is the first stream mentioned as flowing from the north.
[176]Eighty leagues would probably be a reasonable estimate of the distance from the Pecos to the Rio Grande, which the travellers had now reached. It would seem strange that no mention is made of the cañon of the latter stream (which hereabouts flows through a territory four thousand feet above sea level), were it not for the fact that they had become thoroughly inured to suffering and hard travelling; nevertheless, the terribly rough country through which they had just been guided from stream to stream is commented on, while the fact that the Rio Grande here "flows between some ridges" is mentioned farther on.
[176]Eighty leagues would probably be a reasonable estimate of the distance from the Pecos to the Rio Grande, which the travellers had now reached. It would seem strange that no mention is made of the cañon of the latter stream (which hereabouts flows through a territory four thousand feet above sea level), were it not for the fact that they had become thoroughly inured to suffering and hard travelling; nevertheless, the terribly rough country through which they had just been guided from stream to stream is commented on, while the fact that the Rio Grande here "flows between some ridges" is mentioned farther on.
[177]An assertion quite contrary to the popular belief in "Indian gifts."
[177]An assertion quite contrary to the popular belief in "Indian gifts."
[178]The Indians were evidently endeavoring to compel the Spaniards to remain among them as long as possible.
[178]The Indians were evidently endeavoring to compel the Spaniards to remain among them as long as possible.
[179]Theriver was the Rio Grande, to which they had now returned. The description of the topography is in accordance with the facts.
[179]Theriver was the Rio Grande, to which they had now returned. The description of the topography is in accordance with the facts.
[180]The substantial character of the houses was noted also by Antonio de Espejo, toward the close of 1582, on his journey northward to New Mexico. Espejo speaks of these Indians, the Jumanos, or Patarabueyes, as occupying five villages from about the junction of the Conchos northward up the Rio Grande for twelve days' journey, and as numbering ten thousand souls—but Espejo's estimates of population are always greatly exaggerated. More important is his statement that the Jumanos knew something of Christianity which they had gleaned years before from three Christians and a negro, whom he naturally believed to have been "Alvaro Nuñez Cabeza de Vaca, y Dorantes, y Castillo Maldonado, y un negro," who had made their escape from Narvaez's fleet. This is one of the few definite points of the narrative that can be established without question. SeeColeccion de Documentos Inéditos relativos ... de América y Oceanía, XV. 107 (1871).
[180]The substantial character of the houses was noted also by Antonio de Espejo, toward the close of 1582, on his journey northward to New Mexico. Espejo speaks of these Indians, the Jumanos, or Patarabueyes, as occupying five villages from about the junction of the Conchos northward up the Rio Grande for twelve days' journey, and as numbering ten thousand souls—but Espejo's estimates of population are always greatly exaggerated. More important is his statement that the Jumanos knew something of Christianity which they had gleaned years before from three Christians and a negro, whom he naturally believed to have been "Alvaro Nuñez Cabeza de Vaca, y Dorantes, y Castillo Maldonado, y un negro," who had made their escape from Narvaez's fleet. This is one of the few definite points of the narrative that can be established without question. SeeColeccion de Documentos Inéditos relativos ... de América y Oceanía, XV. 107 (1871).
[181]Melonesin the edition of 1542. Bandelier has no doubt that a species of squash is meant.
[181]Melonesin the edition of 1542. Bandelier has no doubt that a species of squash is meant.
[182]... "beans and many squashes to eat, gourds to carry water in" (ed. of 1542, Bandelier translation).
[182]... "beans and many squashes to eat, gourds to carry water in" (ed. of 1542, Bandelier translation).
[183]That is, the Jumanos and probably the Tobosos respectively. The captive woman evidently belonged to the latter tribe.
[183]That is, the Jumanos and probably the Tobosos respectively. The captive woman evidently belonged to the latter tribe.
[184]Apparently other settlements of the Jumanos, as mentioned in the above note. The Spaniards were now going up the Rio Grande.
[184]Apparently other settlements of the Jumanos, as mentioned in the above note. The Spaniards were now going up the Rio Grande.
[185]Although they resided in permanent habitations at this time, the Jumanos lived east of the Rio Grande, in New Mexico, a century later and practised the habits of the buffalo-hunting plains tribes rather than those of sedentary Indians. The "neighborhood" was evidently not the immediate vicinity, and the stream alluded to seems much more likely to have been the Pecos than the Rio Grande, the former having been named Rio de las Vacas by Espejo in 1583. On this point see the opening paragraph of the following chapter.
[185]Although they resided in permanent habitations at this time, the Jumanos lived east of the Rio Grande, in New Mexico, a century later and practised the habits of the buffalo-hunting plains tribes rather than those of sedentary Indians. The "neighborhood" was evidently not the immediate vicinity, and the stream alluded to seems much more likely to have been the Pecos than the Rio Grande, the former having been named Rio de las Vacas by Espejo in 1583. On this point see the opening paragraph of the following chapter.
[186]The Pueblo Indians of New Mexico are here referred to. Later Spanish explorers found cotton garments in abundance in their country. The statement here that the Jumanos spoke the same tongue as some of the Pueblos is significant, and accounts in a measure for the affiliation of the Jumanos with the Piros when missions were established by the Franciscans among these two tribes east of the Rio Grande, in New Mexico, in 1629.
[186]The Pueblo Indians of New Mexico are here referred to. Later Spanish explorers found cotton garments in abundance in their country. The statement here that the Jumanos spoke the same tongue as some of the Pueblos is significant, and accounts in a measure for the affiliation of the Jumanos with the Piros when missions were established by the Franciscans among these two tribes east of the Rio Grande, in New Mexico, in 1629.
[187]This was not an uncommon practice, especially among the non-sedentary tribes who could not readily transport pottery from place to place. The nameAssiniboin, meaning "stone Sioux," abbreviated to "Stonies," is derived from this custom. Tightly woven baskets and wooden bowls were also used for the purpose.
[187]This was not an uncommon practice, especially among the non-sedentary tribes who could not readily transport pottery from place to place. The nameAssiniboin, meaning "stone Sioux," abbreviated to "Stonies," is derived from this custom. Tightly woven baskets and wooden bowls were also used for the purpose.
[188]Probably the Rio Santa Maria, in Chihuahua.
[188]Probably the Rio Santa Maria, in Chihuahua.
[189]The Sierra Madre.
[189]The Sierra Madre.
[190]The numerous villages of the Opata and cognate tribes of Sonora.
[190]The numerous villages of the Opata and cognate tribes of Sonora.
[191]Bandelier (p. 156) believes that there may have been malachites.
[191]Bandelier (p. 156) believes that there may have been malachites.
[192]For the clothing of the Opata Indians, see Castañeda's narration in this volume.
[192]For the clothing of the Opata Indians, see Castañeda's narration in this volume.
[193]Amole, the root of the yucca.
[193]Amole, the root of the yucca.
[194]Town of the Hearts, at or near the present Ures, on the Rio Sonora. The place became celebrated in 1540, when Coronado's army passed through the country. See the Castañeda narration in this volume.
[194]Town of the Hearts, at or near the present Ures, on the Rio Sonora. The place became celebrated in 1540, when Coronado's army passed through the country. See the Castañeda narration in this volume.
[195]These were the Seri, Guaymas, Upanguaymas, and Tepoca tribes. The Seri particularly have ever been noted for their warlike character, but Cabeza de Vaca does not here speak from personal knowledge.
[195]These were the Seri, Guaymas, Upanguaymas, and Tepoca tribes. The Seri particularly have ever been noted for their warlike character, but Cabeza de Vaca does not here speak from personal knowledge.
[196]That is, in the West Indies, see p. 19, note 5.
[196]That is, in the West Indies, see p. 19, note 5.
[197]See the Castañeda narration, p. 326,post; and compare theRudo Ensayo(ca.1763), p. 64, 1863, which says: "Mago, in the Opata language, is a small tree, very green, luxuriant, and beautiful to the eye; but it contains a deadly juice which flows upon making a slight incision in the bark. The natives rub their arrows with it, and for this reason they call it arrow herb; but at present they use very little."
[197]See the Castañeda narration, p. 326,post; and compare theRudo Ensayo(ca.1763), p. 64, 1863, which says: "Mago, in the Opata language, is a small tree, very green, luxuriant, and beautiful to the eye; but it contains a deadly juice which flows upon making a slight incision in the bark. The natives rub their arrows with it, and for this reason they call it arrow herb; but at present they use very little."
[198]Twelve leagues, and the same distance from the Gulf of California, according to the last paragraph of this chapter.
[198]Twelve leagues, and the same distance from the Gulf of California, according to the last paragraph of this chapter.
[199]Perhaps at or in the vicinity of the present Hermosillo, Sonora, although the distance is greater than that given later.
[199]Perhaps at or in the vicinity of the present Hermosillo, Sonora, although the distance is greater than that given later.
[200]Petatlan; so also in the edition of 1542. This is the Rio Sinaloa. See Castañeda's narration of the Coronado expedition, part 2, ch. 2,post.
[200]Petatlan; so also in the edition of 1542. This is the Rio Sinaloa. See Castañeda's narration of the Coronado expedition, part 2, ch. 2,post.
[201]See the note on Guzman in the Castañeda relation. The narrative is here slightly confused, as the town at which they first heard of Christians was the one in which they were overtaken by the rain, according to Cabeza de Vaca's previous statement in this chapter.
[201]See the note on Guzman in the Castañeda relation. The narrative is here slightly confused, as the town at which they first heard of Christians was the one in which they were overtaken by the rain, according to Cabeza de Vaca's previous statement in this chapter.
[202]The Gulf of California. As he did not go to the coast, however, his estimate is considerably below the actual distance.
[202]The Gulf of California. As he did not go to the coast, however, his estimate is considerably below the actual distance.
[203]The Jumanos, previously mentioned.
[203]The Jumanos, previously mentioned.
[204]There were twenty horsemen according to theLetter(Oviedo, p. 612).
[204]There were twenty horsemen according to theLetter(Oviedo, p. 612).
[205]Alcaraz later served as a lieutenant under Diaz in the Coronado expedition. Castañeda characterizes him as a weakling.
[205]Alcaraz later served as a lieutenant under Diaz in the Coronado expedition. Castañeda characterizes him as a weakling.
[206]Evidently the Rio Sinaloa.
[206]Evidently the Rio Sinaloa.
[207]San Miguel Culiacan. See Castañeda's narration.
[207]San Miguel Culiacan. See Castañeda's narration.
[208]Evidently intended forPimahaitu, through misunderstanding. These tribes who lived in permanent habitations, from the village of the Corazones (Hearts) to Culiacan, were all of the Piman family, and consequently spoke related languages. The Pima do not call themselvesPima, butO-otam, "men," "people."Pimameans "no";pimahaitu, "no thing." The termVasconyados, orVascongados, refers to the Biscayans.
[208]Evidently intended forPimahaitu, through misunderstanding. These tribes who lived in permanent habitations, from the village of the Corazones (Hearts) to Culiacan, were all of the Piman family, and consequently spoke related languages. The Pima do not call themselvesPima, butO-otam, "men," "people."Pimameans "no";pimahaitu, "no thing." The termVasconyados, orVascongados, refers to the Biscayans.
[209]For the later career of this officer, see Castañeda's narration. Melchior Diaz was a man of very different stamp to Guzman, Alcaraz, and Zebreros (or Cebreros), so far as his treatment of the Indians is concerned.
[209]For the later career of this officer, see Castañeda's narration. Melchior Diaz was a man of very different stamp to Guzman, Alcaraz, and Zebreros (or Cebreros), so far as his treatment of the Indians is concerned.
[210]Petatlan—the Rio Sinaloa.
[210]Petatlan—the Rio Sinaloa.
[211]Evidently one of those obtained in Texas and which the Indians there so highly regarded. See p. 90, note 2; p. 95, note 1.
[211]Evidently one of those obtained in Texas and which the Indians there so highly regarded. See p. 90, note 2; p. 95, note 1.
[212]Among the Indians of this region who were carried away into captivity were the Yaqui, who have been hostile to the whites to this day.
[212]Among the Indians of this region who were carried away into captivity were the Yaqui, who have been hostile to the whites to this day.
[213]1536.
[213]1536.
[214]The day of Saint James the Apostle—July 25, 1536.
[214]The day of Saint James the Apostle—July 25, 1536.
[215]The Viceroy Mendoza and Cortés.
[215]The Viceroy Mendoza and Cortés.
[216]Spain.
[216]Spain.
[217]1537.
[217]1537.
[218]Corvo.
[218]Corvo.
[219]The day of Saint Lawrence (San Lorenzo) is August 10.
[219]The day of Saint Lawrence (San Lorenzo) is August 10.
[220]Tampa Bay, Florida.
[220]Tampa Bay, Florida.
[221]Colophon of the first edition.
[221]Colophon of the first edition.
[222]First printed by Buckingham Smith in hisColeccion de varios Documentos para la Historia de la Florida(London, 1857).
[222]First printed by Buckingham Smith in hisColeccion de varios Documentos para la Historia de la Florida(London, 1857).
[223]From the title page of the original.
[223]From the title page of the original.
[224]We inhabit the Northern Arctic Pole, and that people inhabit the Southern Antarctic Pole. Golden Pole is used because the region is rich. (Footnote in the original.)
[224]We inhabit the Northern Arctic Pole, and that people inhabit the Southern Antarctic Pole. Golden Pole is used because the region is rich. (Footnote in the original.)
[225]The printer.
[225]The printer.
[226]In 1531.
[226]In 1531.
[227]Span.real, the eighth of a silver dollar.
[227]Span.real, the eighth of a silver dollar.
[228]The India House, or Board of Trade, at Seville.
[228]The India House, or Board of Trade, at Seville.
[229]Gentleman.
[229]Gentleman.
[230]Dorantes.
[230]Dorantes.
[231]In eastern Portugal, near the Spanish border.
[231]In eastern Portugal, near the Spanish border.
[232]January 20.
[232]January 20.
[233]Cassava.
[233]Cassava.
[234]Whitsunday.
[234]Whitsunday.
[235]Ucita or Oçita. This first town was on the point at the mouth of Charlotte Harbor, Florida.
[235]Ucita or Oçita. This first town was on the point at the mouth of Charlotte Harbor, Florida.
[236]The name of this town was Hirriga, according to the Inca, and it seems to have been located on the northeast arm of the harbor.
[236]The name of this town was Hirriga, according to the Inca, and it seems to have been located on the northeast arm of the harbor.
[237]The town of Mocoço was located west of Miakka River (Macaco of the old maps), which enters the northwest arm of the harbor.
[237]The town of Mocoço was located west of Miakka River (Macaco of the old maps), which enters the northwest arm of the harbor.
[238]Tocaste was on an island in the marsh at the first crossing of "the great marsh," so graphically described by the Inca.
[238]Tocaste was on an island in the marsh at the first crossing of "the great marsh," so graphically described by the Inca.
[239]This was the river or marsh of Cale, and the Inca's second crossing of the great marsh.
[239]This was the river or marsh of Cale, and the Inca's second crossing of the great marsh.
[240]They had now reached the higher country, which begins in the southern part of Polk County.
[240]They had now reached the higher country, which begins in the southern part of Polk County.
[241]An officer somewhat like an adjutant-general.
[241]An officer somewhat like an adjutant-general.
[242]St. Francis's day is the fourth of the month (October), but it was not Wednesday in 1539. Ranjel says that the crossing was finished on Friday, October 3.
[242]St. Francis's day is the fourth of the month (October), but it was not Wednesday in 1539. Ranjel says that the crossing was finished on Friday, October 3.
[243]This should be Sunday, October 5. October 25, 1539, came on Saturday.
[243]This should be Sunday, October 5. October 25, 1539, came on Saturday.
[244]Calahuchi, according to Ranjel. The modern name may be Chattahuchi.
[244]Calahuchi, according to Ranjel. The modern name may be Chattahuchi.
[245]This word means plums, but when applied to the American fruit, it has reference to the persimmon.
[245]This word means plums, but when applied to the American fruit, it has reference to the persimmon.
[246]The bay where Narvaez built his brigantines was known to the Spaniards as Bahia de Caballos, or Horse Bay. The modern name is Bay Ocklockonee.
[246]The bay where Narvaez built his brigantines was known to the Spaniards as Bahia de Caballos, or Horse Bay. The modern name is Bay Ocklockonee.
[247]Probably Flint River.
[247]Probably Flint River.
[248]This should be Thursday the eleventh, which was the day on which they arrived at the first town in Capachiqui. Capachiqui was the second town in that province, according to Ranjel.
[248]This should be Thursday the eleventh, which was the day on which they arrived at the first town in Capachiqui. Capachiqui was the second town in that province, according to Ranjel.
[249]Wednesday was the twenty-fourth, but they arrived at Toalli early on the morning of the twenty-third, according to Ranjel.
[249]Wednesday was the twenty-fourth, but they arrived at Toalli early on the morning of the twenty-third, according to Ranjel.
[250]Mud walls.
[250]Mud walls.
[251]Before arriving at this stream they crossed a very broad river, according to Ranjel, which Biedma says was the first river flowing to the east. This was the Ocmulgee River.
[251]Before arriving at this stream they crossed a very broad river, according to Ranjel, which Biedma says was the first river flowing to the east. This was the Ocmulgee River.
[252]Altamaha, according to Ranjel. Before arriving at this place they crossed a great river which was either the Oconee or the Altamaha River.
[252]Altamaha, according to Ranjel. Before arriving at this place they crossed a great river which was either the Oconee or the Altamaha River.