note
This story follows closely the "Relacion of Cabeca de Vaca." It illustrates the resourcefulness, bravery and ingenuity of Spanish cavaliers of the heroic age as hardly any other episode does.
LONE BAYOU
De Soto was a gentleman of Spain In those proud years when Spanish chivalry From fierce adventure never did refrain,— Ruler of argosies that ruled the sea, She looked on lesser nations in disdain, As born to trafficking or slavery.
In shining armor, and with shot and steel Abundantly purveyed for their delight, Banners before whose Cross the foe should kneel, His company embarked—how great a light Through men's perversity to stoop and reel Down through calamity to endless night!
Yet unsubmissive, obdurately bold, The savages refused to serve their need. They would not guide the conquerors to their gold, Nor though cast in the fire like a weed Or driven by stern compulsion to the fold, Would they abandon their unhallowed creed.
The forest folk in terror broke and fled Like fish before the fierce pursuing pike. The stubborn chiefs as hostages were led— And in the wilderness, a grisly dyke Of slaves and captives, lay the heathen dead, And the black bayou claims all dead alike.