Now I threw off the emblems of my godhead and cast myself down on cushions to rest and think, and a certain exultation took possession of me, for was I not a god, and had I not power almost absolute?
Still being of a cautious mind I wondered why I was a god, and how long my power would last.
Before the hour had gone by, pages and nobles entered, bearing new robes which were put upon my body and fresh flowers to crown my head, and I was led away to the apartments of Guatemoc, fair women going before me who played upon instruments of music.
Here Guatemoc the prince waited to receive me, which he did as though I, his captive and companion, was the first of kings.

And yet I thought that I saw merriment in his eye, mingled with sorrow.

Bending forward I spoke to him in a whisper: 'What does all this mean, prince ?' I said.

'Am I befooled, or am I indeed a god ?' 'Hush!' he answered, bowing low and speaking beneath his breath.

'It means both good and ill for you, my friend Teule.