"I will go and speak to Cortez at once, and get leave for you. But you had best disguise yourself well--Tezcuco will be in an uproar tonight; for the capture of Cacama will be known there ere many hours, if it is not known already."
She soon returned with the required permission. This time Roger dressed himself in the attire of a trader, as being less likely to attract attention. Malinche again secured a boat for him, and having dyed his face and hands, he started at once, as it would be dark before he reached Tezcuco. Since Montezuma had been captive in their hands, there was no longer any fear of an attack being made upon the Spaniards; and the soldiers were now able to come and go through the town, at pleasure.
Upon landing, Roger at once made his way to the palace. There was great excitement in the town. The people were assembled in crowds, discussing the news that had reached them; and even at the palace gate the guards were careless of their duty, and Roger entered without question.
He hurried direct to the royal apartments. An official who would have barred his way allowed him to pass at once, when he recognized his identity.
When he entered, he found a scene of grief and confusion. The queen was extended upon a couch, weeping bitterly; while Amenche and some of her ladies, although themselves weeping, were trying to console her.
The princess gave a cry of joy when she saw him and, running forward, threw herself into his arms.
"You have heard the news?" she exclaimed. "Cacama is lost. These monsters will put him to death."
"I can reassure you as to that," Roger said. "He is a captive, but his life is not in danger. Malinche has interceded for him, and Cortez has promised that his life shall be spared."
A cry of gladness burst from all present.
"I have other and less pleasant news to give you, Amenche," Roger whispered in her ear. "Get rid of all these ladies. My news must be for you, only."