As the game goes, so shall the issue be.

If you win my kingdoms all is well; if I win the cocks, then good-bye to the glory of Anahuac, for its people will cease to be a people, and strangers shall possess the land.' 'Let us play and see,' said Montezuma, and they went down to the place that is called tlachco, where the games are set.

Here they began the match with dice and at first all went well for Montezuma, so that he called aloud that already he was lord of Tezcuco.
'May it be so!' answered the aged Neza, and from that moment the chance changed.

For strive as he would, Montezuma could not win another point, and presently the set was finished, and Neza had won the cocks.

Now the music played, and courtiers came forward to give the king homage on his success.