Chapter I

TEZCUCAN LAKE--DESCRIPTION OF THE CAPITAL--PALACES AND MUSEUMS--ROYAL HOUSEHOLD--MONTEZUMA’S WAY OF LIFE

Lake of Tezcuco 281 Its Diminution 282 Floating Islands 283 The ancient Dikes 284 Houses of ancient Mexico 285 Its Streets 286 Its Population 288 Its Aqueducts and Fountains 292 The imperial Palace 293 Adjoining Edifices 294 Magnificent Aviary 294 Extensive Menagerie 295 Collection of Dwarfs 296 Gardens 297 Royal Hill of Chapoltepec 298 Wives of Montezuma 299 His Meals 300 Luxurious Dessert 303 Custom of Smoking 304 Ceremonies at Court 305 Economy of the Palace 306 Oriental Civilization 308 Reserve of Montezuma 309 Symptoms of Decline of Power 309