Chiruca (he points to the Palace). Behold the home of my Fathers! the Palace of the Great Comagre! (they hold up their hands in astonishment)
Drake. Grand! rich! sublime! Nature has sown thick her gifts and broadcast. On earth and sky every element of the picturesque is here; the horizon of that Majestic Sierra, with its streams and waterfalls! the lake sleeping in the gorgeous light of evening; those fertile vales; those cultivated fields and gardens of productive industry; the tall forest teeming with fruits and flowers, loading the breeze with spicy odours, and which the declining sun paints in the tints of Heaven. Who would not fight for such a country?
Chiruca (he points to the defences). This hedge is our outermost defence.
Drake. Neither horse nor man could enter it without death.
Chiruca. Behind it you see the moat. The only entrance, the Bamboo swinging bridge, can be defended with a thousand bows, whose poisoned arrows carry certain death. The Palace, enclosed in a stone wall, contains beside the dwelling apartments, accomodation for warriors to defend it, stores for provisions, and cellars for making and keeping our various liquors. But here comes the Great Cacique to welcome and honour you.
Advance of Indian Warriors whose banners are the blood-stained shirts of Spaniards slain in battle. Their musicians sound shells and beat drums. Comagre appears at a little distance. His dress is a white cotton robe fantastically embroidered, confined at the waist with a belt of gold, bearing a dagger; which as well as his arms, is studded with precious stones. His limbs otherwise naked, similarly encircled. On his head a crown consisting of a band of gold curiously wrought, with points on which were enormous pearls, and studded with emeralds, and other stones of lustre. This over a cap of scarlet. From this crown he was called by the Spaniards “Bonete d’ Oro” “Gold Cap.” He prostrates himself on the ground thus to await Drake.
Drake (astonished). Haste, Chiruca! your father has fallen!
Chiruca. No! this is our ceremony of welcome to an honoured guest. He thus shows his devotion to you. It is for you to advance and raise him up. (Drake advances and raises the Cacique, who then warmly embraces him.)
Comagre (embracing Drake). Welcome, welcome, noble Englishman! The terror of your great name—your matchless exploits, have struck our foes with panic. We hail you as a deliverer.
Drake. Thanks! Great Comagre, I have heard of your valorous deeds also.