Cortez had found his position unbearable.
He believed that the attack upon the Spaniards, on the coast, as well as the meditated treachery at Cholula, were the outcome of the emperor's orders.

His native allies had heard rumors, in the town, that the bridges across the canals were all to be raised; in which case the Spaniards would be prisoners in their palace.

He was in the Mexican capital, but he had as yet effected nothing towards the conquest of the country.

At any moment he might hear of the landing of an expedition from Cuba, that his authority was revoked, and that another was to reap the benefit of all he had done.
He therefore called a council of his most trusted officers, and discussed the situation with them.

All agreed that some step must, at once, be taken.