The third is a "spring song" in which the distinguished warriors of the king are compared to precious stones. Such jewels were believed by the Nahuas to possess certain mysterious powers as charms and amulets, a belief, it is needless to say, found among almost all nations. In verse 18 there is a reference to the superstition that at dawn, when these jewels are exposed to the first rays of the sun, they emit a fine vapor which wafts abroad their subtle potency. The poem is in Spanish verse, and the original is said to have been written down by Don Fernando de Avila, governor of Tlalmanalco, from the mouth of Don Juan de Aguilar, governor of Cultepec, a direct descendant of Nezahualcoyotl.
III
1. The flowery spring has its house, its court, its palace, adorned with riches, with goods in abundance.
2. With discreet art they are arranged and placed, rich feathers, precious stones, surpassing in luster the sun.
3. There is the valued carbuncle, which from its beauteous center darts forth rays which are the lights of knowledge.
4. There is the prized diamond, sign of strength, shooting forth its brilliant gleams.
5. Here one sees the translucent emerald suggesting the hope of the rewards of merit.
6. Next follows the topaz, equaling the emerald, for the reward it promises is a heavenly dwelling.
7. The amethyst, signifying the cares which a king has for his subjects, and moderation in desires.
8. These are what kings, princes and monarchs delight to place upon their breasts and crowns.