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Preface
Confirming Pages
We wrote this book because our primary sense of who we are as professionals is that we are
teachers. We play various roles in our careers, but we are especially dedicated to our students. We
want them
30 to listen, read, create, Partand
1 evaluate
The Legal more
Environmenteffectively as a result of their experience in a
of Business
business law class. Above all, we want them to sense the importance and excitement of the law.
We want them to be aware that business resides in an atmosphere of legal rights and responsibilities.
The morein personam
they have an understanding court system, a court’s
of relevant law, the more theirjurisdiction
in personam usuallywill
business activities extends to the state’s borders. In the fed-
flourish.
jurisdiction eral system, eachthe
court’s jurisdiction extends across itsnot
geographic district.
We The
triedpower
to construct
of a court to
a book that contains basics of business law but does get bogged
down inrequire
the kind of details
a party (usually that A court
would be acquires
more in personam
appropriate in jurisdiction
an upper-level overlawa person
class. (the plaintiff) when she files a law-
Thisthe4th editionorcontinues
defendant) a wit- suit with the court. The court acquires jurisdiction
and advances the pedagogical strengths of earlier editions. As dif- over the person the plaintiff is suing (the
ness to come before the
ficult ascourt.
it isThe
to court
recall defendant) when it gives him a copy of the
what it is like to know almost nothing about business law, we tried repeat- complaint and a summons. The complaint specifies
must
the factual and legal basis for the lawsuit and the relief the plaintiff seeks. The summons is a
edly tohave
force ourselves
personal jurisdic-to remember that the text is for students, not for us to reveal our previous
tion to enforce its judg- court order that notifies the defendant of the lawsuit and explains how and when to respond to
training. Toward that end, we have simplified and clarified as often as we could.
ments or orders against the complaint.
Ourapedagogical
party. In personam features that provide the distinctive value of this book. Each feature stands
Service of process is the procedure by which courts present these documents to defendants.
by itselfjurisdiction
as an aid to theonly
extends kind of learning we hope to encourage. Yet the features are also a cohe-
to the state’s borders in Traditionally, courts used personal service: An officer of the court handed the summons and
sive unit,
the contributing
state court system both to complaint
the liberal toeducation of the students
the defendant. Over time, whohowever,
read it and to their
courts beganskills
to employ other methods of
as decision makers
and across in a marketservice,
the court’s economy. including residential service, in which a court representative leaves the summons
Specifically,
geographic we provide
district in the what competing texts deliver, an examination of the basic questions,
and complaint with a responsible adult at the defendant’s home, and service by certified or
federal system.
concepts, and legal rules of business ordinary law. Our text must address the power and authority of
mail.
plaintiff
constitutions, statutes, case law, Increasingly,
The person or party who
and treaties courts
as sources of law. Together,
are authorizing service by thee-mail,
variousespecially
elementsin situations where it is dif-
of whatinitiates
we call “the law”
a lawsuit (also make up the foundation and structure of the market
ficult to find the defendant’s physical address. The reasons for exchange process.
recognizing this form of service
Decisions
known astoantrade action)and produce require trust—trust that consumers, firms, workers, finan-
are that (1) it is reasonably calculated to provide notice of the pending action, and (2) e-mail is
before a court by filing
cial institutions,
a complaint with andthe asset owners will do as they
not substantially less promise
likely to andprovidethat notice
violationsthan of thesuch promises
customary methods of providing notice.
will beclerk
unacceptable
of the court againstin the marketplace.
Recently, a Without guarantees
few jurisdictions havethatevenpromises will be
recognized kept, through
service market Facebook accounts when
the defendant(s).
exchanges would grind traditional methods of service did not work.1
Also to a halt. Business law provides these guarantees and the boundaries
known as claimant or
within complainant.
which certain promises can be made
If the and enforced.
defendant is a corporation, courts generally serve either the president of the corporation
Market decisions are madeor
defendant inan agent whompersistently
a context—a the corporation has appointed
changing context. to The receive
law, inservice.
turn, isMost states require corpora-
dynamic in response.
The person or party New tions to
technologies appoint
and an agent
business for service
practices when
bring they
new incorporate.
disputes over Corporations
rights are subject to in per-
and responsibilities
against whom a civil in aorbusiness sonam jurisdiction in three locations: the state of their incorporation, the location of their main
setting.
criminal lawsuit is filed in offices, and the geographic areas in which they conduct business.
We aknewcourt ofthat
law. the 4th edition needed to be different from the 3rd because law is evolving.
Certaincomplaint
areas of business law expereince Courts have in personam
recurring jurisdiction
re-examination andover persons
revision. Foronly withinwe
example, a specific geographic region.
createdAnew material for this In the emphasizing
edition, past, a state courtprivacy,could not and
cyber, acquire in personam
imigration law. In jurisdiction
addition, over out-of-state defen-
formal written docu-
each author
ment that begins ato refreshdants
pledged unless it with
our chapters served the defendants
recent developments within inthe court’slaw.
business home state. Thus, defendants who injured
civil lawsuit; contains
Future business leaders need plaintiffs
knowledge couldofevade
existing legalbusiness
action by lawleaving
as well theasstate
a setand of remaining
skills per- outside its borders.
the plaintiff’s list of To alleviate this problem, most states have enacted long-arm statutes that enable the court
mittingallegations
them to againstadjust the efficiently and effectively to new legal issues as they arise over the course
to serve defendants outside the state as long as the defendant has sufficient minimum contacts
of theirdefendant
careers.along with
the damages the plaintiff within the state. Each state has its own minimum-contact requirements, but most state statutes
We seeks.
are excited about the contents of our features and want to explain the function of each of
hold that acts such as committing a tort or doing business in the state are sufficient to allow the
them insummons
preparing students for leadership positions in business.
state to serve a defendant. In the Caterpillar case, the company sold products in Kentucky, and
WHAT IF . . .
A legal document issued
by a court and addressed
its products caused an injury in that state. These two facts were sufficient minimum contacts to
to a defendant that noti- allow the Kentucky court to serve Caterpillar, even though it was an out-of-state company.
Businessfies law
him or ishera set
of theoflaw-
rules and regulations that modern managers must obey, but those rules
and regulations
suit and how apply and when in specific situations to particular facts. Those facts create a special
to respond to the com-
setting,plaint.
oneA not exactly
summons may
like
any other
be used business
in both civil decision.
and BUT WHAT IF . . .
We addedcriminala But What If fea- WHAT IF THE FACTS OF THE CASE OPENER WERE DIFFERENT?
proceedings.
ture tolong-arm
highlight for readers
statute
Recall that in the Case Opener the company sold products in Kentucky and its products caused an
the need to thinkenables
A statute that about the
a court to obtain juris- injury in that state. Let’s say in the Case Opener that Caterpillar did not sell products in the state of
implications of specific
diction against an out- facts Kentucky, but its products did cause an injury in that state. Could a Kentucky court still exercise in
for theof-state
application
defendantof as busi-
personam jurisdiction over Caterpillar and serve the company? Why?
long as the defendant
ness laws.
has sufficient minimum
contacts within the state,
such as committing a tort vii
or doing business in the
state. Because of the increasing purchase of products over the Internet, it is sometimes difficult
to know whether the court will be able to obtain in personam jurisdiction over the seller of
a defective product. Case 3-1 illustrates how the courts are increasingly responding to this
viii Preface
In addition, this feature provides a reminder that applying the law is a complex activity, requir-
ing a thorough knowledge of the law. An alert business manager needs to consider how each of
the facts in the dilemma she or he faces may have legal implications that are not always clear
when simply reading the law for the first time. The facts of a case guide the application.
Those who have formal legal training know that a common form of teaching law is to pose
hypotheticals. The But What If feature mimics that approach.
In other words, at first glance the law seems First
to point
Pages in a certain direction, thereby giving business
decision makers confidence that they know what is legally permissible or required, but changing a
single fact can sometimes dramatically alter the eventual application of the law. An awareness of the
significance of facts in the law can greatly enhance legal compliance and save firms huge expenses.
throughout
The perfect tender rule is not asthe chapters.
inflexible WeAlthough
as it appears. encourage the demands
the rule itself use ofperfec-
a step-by-step critical thinking approach that has been
tion, both courts and UCC drafters have created exceptions that reduce the rule’s rigidity. These
exceptions limit the seller’s obligation to deliver conforming goods and/or limit the buyer’s We do not just repeatedly urge students to think
developed and used in classrooms in many countries.
critically. Instead, we describe for them what is meant by that phrase in the context of business law.
tact with one another requires our aspirations to be defined, at least NOin part, by their impact on others. YES
Our text has several ethical reasoning possibilities in each chapter. But for the reader
The basic purpose of a business firm is to provide a ser-
to use
Communities have dozens of needs that, when met,
this emphasis requires a practical step-by-step approach.
vice or product In other words,
to consumers that makesstudents
profits for its need
owners. Capitalist theory depends on the incentive of
more
assist citizensthanin flourishing. What sense does it make
to take an important sector like corporate America
just a discussion about values or ethics. the profit motive as a guarantee that firms will meet the and deny them the opportunity to assist in meet-
desires of consumers. Please those consumers, and the
They need to have some sense that the discussion
market is is headed institution.
an outstanding somewhere. Displease They
them, want to know,
ing these needs? When a computer firm decides to
enhance the educational mission of the town where
“How will my behavior be any more ethical after reliesIonhave read the chapter
will seek toand
and you go out of business. This sanitizing process
the assumption that firms participated
maximize they produce in their
the product by giving computers to
the school, they do so in an environment where
class discussions?” Our text answers their question.
profits. When firms decide for themselves that they will
have goals that conflict with profit maximization, they schools are often pinched for funds. Those students
undercut the meaning and the benefits of capitalism. need computers, and they would take them from
Chapter 2 provides a clear explanation of our approach—an
Democracies haveapproach
a process for that students
deciding which of can use who
anyone on isa kind enough to provide them.
regular basis. The language and organization ofthe countless potential good deeds a community will
our
pledge tomodel of ethical
do. Tax money reasoning
is never bountiful enough leans
to implicitly
on standard ethical theories, but it meets the challenge of a fast-paced business world. It pushes
stakeholders to the forefront of market decisions,
24 where they belong, and does so in a manner that
Business ethics serve as the guidelines we use to shape the world we wish to create. As such,
they provide guidance for the kind of business behavior we want to reinforce. After each case
First Pages
discussion, we pause to think about the ethics of business law by asking a question derived from
Untitled-3 24 09/20/17 02:56 PM
pervasive influence of this new, compli- defendant enters into contracts with residents of a for-
eign jurisdiction that involve the knowing and repeated *
Zippo Mfg. Co. v. Zippo Dot Com, Inc., 952 F. Supp. 1119 at 1124 (1997).
If a defendant has property in a state, a plaintiff may file suit against the defendant’s property
instead of against the owner. For example, suppose a Utah resident had not paid property taxes
in rem jurisdiction on a piece of land she owned in Idaho. Idaho courts have in rem jurisdiction (Latin for “juris-
The power of a court diction over the thing”) over the property. Thus, an Idaho state court has the power to seize the
over the property or
property and sell it to pay the property taxes in an in rem proceeding.
status of an out-of-state
Online Assignments and Resources
Instructor’s Manual Written by our co-author Neil Browne, this resource includes lecture
notes, case briefs, answers to all questions in each chapter, assignment ideas, teaching assistance
(emphasizing practical tips that new or part-time teachers can try right away), and suggested handouts.
Test Bank and Quizzes Our test bank and quizzes contain a variety of true/false, multiple-
choice, and essay questions as well as scenario-based questions, which are application-based and
use a situation described in a narrative, with three to five multiple-choice test questions based on
the situation.
x
You Be the Judge Online This interactive product features case videos that showcase
courtroom arguments of business law cases. These case videos give students the opportunity to
watch profile interviews of the plaintiff and defendant; read background information; hear each
case; review the evidence; make their decisions; and then access an actual, unscripted judge’s
decision and reasoning.
AACSB Statement
McGraw-Hill Education is a proud corporate member of AACSB International. The authors of
Dynamic Business Law: The Essentials, Fourth Edition understand the importance and value of
AACSB accreditation and recognize the curricula guidelines detailed in the AACSB standards
for business accreditation by connecting selected questions in the test bank to the general knowl-
edge and skill guidelines in the AACSB standards.
The statements contained in Dynamic Business Law: The Essentials, Fourth Edition, are pro-
vided only as a guide for the users of this textbook. The AACSB leaves content coverage and
assessment within the purview of individual schools, the mission of the school, and the fac-
ulty. Although Dynamic Business Law: The Essentials, Fourth Edition, and the teaching package
make no claim of any specific AACSB qualification or evaluation, we have within Dynamic
Business Law: The Essentials, Fourth Edition, labeled selected questions according to the gen-
eral knowledge and skill areas.
xi
McGraw-Hill Connect® is a highly reliable, easy-to-
use homework and learning management solution
that utilizes learning science and award-winning
adaptive tools to improve student results.
73% of instructors
who use Connect
Quality Content and Learning Resources require it; instructor
satisfaction increases
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▪ Connect content is authored by the world’s best subject is required.
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simple and intuitive interface.
▪ The Connect eBook makes it easy for students to
access their reading material on smartphones
and tablets. They can study on the go and don’t
need internet access to use the eBook as a
reference, with full functionality.
▪ Multimedia content such as videos, simulations,
and games drive student engagement and critical
thinking skills. ©McGraw-Hill Education
Robust Analytics and Reporting
▪ Connect integrates with your LMS to provide single sign-on and automatic syncing
of grades. Integration with Blackboard®, D2L®, and Canvas also provides automatic
syncing of the course calendar and assignment-level linking.
▪ Connect offers comprehensive service, support, and training throughout every
phase of your implementation.
▪ If you’re looking for some guidance on how to use Connect, or want to learn
tips and tricks from super users, you can find tutorials as you work. Our Digital
Faculty Consultants and Student Ambassadors offer insight into how to achieve
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www.mheducation.com/connect
xiv Preface
CHAPTER 16: Sales and Lease Contracts: Performance, Warranties, and Remedies
∙ New Case Nugget: Implied or Express Warranty in the “Warranty Disclaimers and Waivers”
section.
∙ New Point/Counterpoint at end of chapter to tie in with the new Case Nugget on warranty
disclaimer.
∙ Added new Case 19-2: In re Arkuszewski, which determined whether a debtor who began
mandatory credit counseling but did not complete it until after the filing of the petition was
still eligible for bankruptcy protection.
∙ Updated federal bankruptcy exemptions in Exhibit 19-4 and non-dischargeable debts under
the Bankruptcy Code in Exhibit 19-6.
∙ Added new Case 24-2: Donald Baldwin, Complainant v. Anthony Foxx, Secretary, Dept.
Of Transportation (FAA), Agency, First time the EEOC (as an agency) interprets “sex” dis-
crimination under Title VII as including discrimination based on sexual orientation.
∙ Discrimination Based on Marriage: Deleted section re: split among states. Added new sec-
tion re: U.S. Supreme Court’s 2015 decision granting marriage equality.
∙ Added new Case 24-3: Nickel v. Staples Contract and Commercial, an age discrimina-
tion case in which “substantial evidence” of discrimination prevailed over allegations of
employee theft, resulting in $16M verdict.
∙ Added new Case Nugget: Roe v. Teletech Customer Care Mgmt. (Colo.) LLC on whether an
employee may be fired for using medical marijuana.
∙ Added new Point/Counterpoint: Should Employers Be Permitted to Use Social Media in
Hiring and/or Firing Decisions?
This final component of the Preface contains a palpable tone of gratitude and humility. Any proj-
ect the scope of Dynamic Business Law: The Essentials, Fourth Edition, is a collective activity;
the authors are but the visible component of a remarkably large joint effort. We want to thank
several contributors by name, but there are doubtlessly many other students, colleagues, and
friends who made essential contributions to these pages.
Our largest gratitude goes to the dozens of business law colleagues who saved us from many
embarrassing errors while tolerating our stubborn reluctance to adhere to certain of their sug-
gestions. In addition, the book could not have been written without the competent and dedicated
research assistance we received from Arata-Enrique Kaku, Alex Jacobs, and Caitlyn Reeder.
Their desire to improve our book is a compliment to their character.
We’d like to thank the following people for helping us with their comments and feedback on
various stages of our manuscript:
Finally, this content was but a raw, unsold manuscript until the skilled publishing team refined
it. Our manuscript benefited immeasurably from the guidance of the multiple levels of skill
provided to us by McGraw-Hill Education. We respect and honor our Managing Director, Tim
Vertovec; our Product Developer, Jaroslaw Szymanski; Executive Portfolio Manager, Kathleen
Klehr; Senior Marketing Manager, Michelle Williams; and Lead Content Project Manager, Pat
Frederickson.
Brief Contents
P A R T 1
The Legal Environment of Business
chapter 1 An Introduction to the Fundamentals of Dynamic
Business Law 1
chapter 2 Business Ethics and Social Responsibility 13
chapter 3 The U.S. Legal System and Alternative Dispute Resolution 28
chapter 4 Administrative Law 59
chapter 5 Constitutional Law 80
chapter 6 Criminal Law and Business 105
chapter 7 Tort Law 131
chapter 8 Real, Personal, and Intellectual Property 157
P A R T 2
Contract Law
chapter 9 Introduction to Contracts and Agreement 180
chapter 10 Consideration 200
chapter 11 Capacity and Legality 216
chapter 12 Reality of Assent 236
chapter 13 Contracts in Writing and Third-Party Contracts 252
chapter 14 Discharge and Remedies 281
P A R T 3
Domestic and International Sales Law
chapter 15 Formation and Performance of Sales and Lease
Contracts 303
chapter 16 Sales and Lease Contracts: Performance, Warranties, and
Remedies 324
P A R T 4
Negotiable Instruments and Banking
chapter 17 Negotiable Instruments: Negotiability and Transferability 344
chapter 18 Holder in Due Course, Liability, and Defenses 371
xxi
xxii Brief Contents
P A R T 5
Creditors’ Rights and Bankruptcy
chapter 19 Secured Transactions and Bankruptcy 395
P A R T 6
Agency
chapter 20 Agency and Liability to Third Parties 421
P A R T 7
Business Organizations
chapter 21 Forms of Business Organization 450
chapter 22 Corporations: Formation and Organization 472
chapter 23 Securities Regulation 503
P A R T 8
Government Regulation
chapter 24 Employment and Discrimination Law 525
chapter 25 Consumer Law 557
APPENDIXES
appendix A The Constitution of the United States of America A
appendix B Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 B-1
Glossary G-1
Index I
Contents
Case 4-1: Doe v. United States Sec U.S. District Court for Point/Counterpoint 101
the Northern District of California 66 Questions & Problems 102
Regulated Negotiation 67
Problems Associated with Rule Making 67 6 Criminal Law and Business 105
Other Administrative Activities 68 Case Opener: A Questionable Stock Investment 105
Case 4-2: Yan Ju Wang v. George Valverde Court of Appeal The Nature and Elements of a Crime 106
of California, Second Appellate District 68 Elements of a Crime 106
Limitations on Agency Powers 69 Classification of Crimes 107
Political Limitations 69 White-Collar Crime 107
Statutory Limitations 70 Specific White-Collar Crimes 108
Judicial Limitations 70 Case 6-1: United States of America v. Thomas Tanke 111
Case 4-3: Northwestern University and College Athletes Corporate Criminal Liability 117
Players Association (Capa) 71 Case 6-2: United States v. Park United States Supreme
Informational Limitations 73 Court 118
Case 4-4: Wilfredo Golez v. John E. Potter, Postmaster Criminal Procedure 119
General, U.S. Postal Service 73 Pretrial Procedure 119
Federal and State Administrative Agencies 75 Trial Procedure 121
Summary 76 Posttrial Procedure 122
Point/Counterpoint 77 Tools for Fighting Business Crime 124
Questions & Problems 77 RICO 124
The False Claims Act 124
5 Constitutional Law 80 The Sarbanes-Oxley Act 125
Case Opener: The Constitutionality of the Affordable Care State Whistle-Blower Protection Laws 127
Act 80 Summary 127
The U.S. Constitution 81 Point/Counterpoint 128
Judicial Review 81 Questions & Problems 128
The Supremacy Clause and Federal Preemption 82
The Commerce Clause 83 7 Tort Law 131
The Commerce Clause as a Source of Authority for the Fed- Case Opener: Plastic Surgeon Defamation 131
eral Government 83 Introduction to Tort Law 132
Case 5-1: Christy Brzonkala v. Antonio J. Morrison Et Al. Classification of Torts 133
United States Supreme Court 84 Intentional Torts 133
The Commerce Clause as a Restriction On State Intentional Torts against Persons 133
Authority 85
Case 7-1: Aaron Olson, Appellant, v. Centurylink,
Case 5-2: Black Star Farms, LLC, Et Al. v. Jerry Oliver, Respondent Court of Appeals of Minnesota 138
Arizona Department of Liquor License and Control Et Al.
Intentional Torts against Property 139
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit 86
Intentional Torts against Economic Interests 140
Taxing and Spending Powers of the Federal Government 87
Negligence 142
Other Constitutional Restrictions on Government 88
Duty 142
The Privileges and Immunities Clause 88
Breach of Duty 143
The Full Faith and Credit Clause 88
Causation 143
The Contract Clause 88
Damages 145
The Amendments to the Constitution 89
Plaintiff’s Doctrines 145
The First Amendment 89
Res Ipsa Loquitur 145
The Fourth Amendment 94
Case 7-2: Swoboda v. Fontanetta 146
Case 5-3: David Leon Riley v. California and
Negligence per se 147
United States v. Wurie 95
Defenses to Negligence 147
The Fifth Amendment 96
Contributory Negligence 147
The Ninth Amendment 99
Comparative Negligence 148
The Fourteenth Amendment 99
Assumption of the Risk 148
Summary 100
Special Defenses to Negligence 149
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be brought from a vessel which had recently reached the coast. A
great event was the arrival of three vessels with two hundred
Spaniards, eighty horses, and a full complement of arms,
ammunition, and other effects, partly bought and partly enlisted by
the agents whom Cortés had despatched to the Islands during the
previous autumn. Among the new-comers were Julian de Alderete of
Tordesillas, appointed royal treasurer for New Spain, and the
Franciscan Pedro Melgarejo de Urrea of Seville, bearing a supply of
papal indulgences for the men who had been engaged in the
crusade. That the soldiers were conscious of frequent transgressions
may be judged from the suggestive and not wholly reverential
observation of Bernal Diaz, that “after patching their defects the friar
returned to Spain within a few months, a rich man.”[1075]
Cortés was cheered by offers of submission and alliance, owing
partly to the good offices of Tezcucans and other allies. Some came
from places quite distant, such as Nautla and Tuzapan, on the coast
north of Villa Rica, laden as usual with presents.[1076] Another
pleasing evidence of still more devoted loyalty came not long after
from the south, from the country of the valiant Chinantecs, of the
long pikes. During the great uprising, when Spaniards in small or
straggling parties had everywhere been slaughtered, this people
faithfully protected the two soldiers who happened to be with them,
and were in return aided by their prowess and advice to achieve
victories over adjoining tribes. One of these men, Captain Hernando
de Barrientos, sent two natives in April with a letter to his
countrymen imparting the assurance that Chinantla and its six sub-
towns were loyal.[1077]
The recent successes and the arrival of the two hundred men
induced Cortés once more to propose peace to Quauhtemotzin. To
this end, during passion week, he bade some of the captured nobles
proceed to Mexico with a letter as a symbol of their commission, and
impress upon their master the superiority in arms and skill of the
Spanish forces, their constant and large reinforcements, and their
unvarying success in the field. They must point out the generous and
humane treatment of the provinces which had submitted, and assure
the Aztec leaders that equal forgiveness would be accorded them.
Refusal to return to their allegiance would lead to the destruction of
themselves and their city. Only two of the captives ventured to
accept the commission, for according to Aztec articles of war any
noble who returned to his country after having been captured by an
enemy was doomed to decapitation unless he had performed some
extraordinary deed.[1078]
No answer came from Mexico, and it was afterward learned that
the messengers had suffered death. The Aztec ruler had not even
given a thought to peace. He was watching his opponents, prepared
to take advantage of any neglect or relaxation in their effort. No
sooner had Sandoval been induced by peaceful appearances to
retire from Chalco than Aztec forces again prepared to invade the
province. The Chalcans had due warning, and close upon the heels
of Sandoval came two messengers lamenting louder than ever, and
exhibiting a painting wherein were named the many towns whose
forces were coming upon them, fully fifty thousand strong. These
constant menaces and movements were exasperating, and Cortés
resolved personally to inflict a lesson which might be lasting. At the
same time he proposed to complete his reconnoissance of the lake
region and encourage his troops with spoils from hostile localities
whereon the Aztecs yet relied for support.[1079]
Cortés selected thirty horse, three hundred infantry, a number of
Tlascaltecs, and over twenty thousand Tezcucans, under Prince
Ixtlilxochitl, to which twice that number of other allies were added on
the way. A large proportion of archers and aquebusiers were taken,
together with Alvarado, Olid, Alderete, Melgarejo, and others, while
Sandoval was left in charge of Tezcuco, with instructions to watch
and promote the completion of the brigantines against which several
incendiary attempts had been made.
The expedition left Friday, the 5th of April, and passed through
Chalco, Tlalmanalco, and Chimalhuacan,[1080] and crossing in a
south-westerly direction into the Totolapan province, they entered the
hills which form the southern border of the Mexican valley. By this
time the forces had assumed proportions hardly inferior to those of
the Iztocan campaign, when over one hundred thousand moved
against the foe. Highly picturesque was the spectacle of this army, its
naked hordes of warriors relieved by plumage and glittering iztli
points which rose above the broad line of gaudy shields; its white
adventurers in mail of cotton and metal, surmounted by bright
helmets, and armed knights on proudly stepping steeds: picturesque
in particular as it wound in almost endless line along the rounded
slopes of the cliffs, or climbed in clearly defined file across the hill-
tops, only to descend again into gulches gloomy as their own sinister
purpose.
Alarmed by the invasion, the inhabitants had abandoned their
valley homes, and had sought refuge on the summits, whence they
hurled missiles at the passing lines. Little attention was paid these
irregular bands, composed as they were to a great extent of women
and children. On entering the Tlayacapan Valley, however, and
observing on the craggy sides of an almost perpendicular isolated
rock, perched there like an eagle’s nest, a place of refuge peopled
with more pretentious opposers, in a fit of insensate folly Cortés
ordered the place to be assailed. He seemed to think the honor of
the army demanded it, and was ready to stake the lives of valuable
men on its destruction.
Orders were given to attack from three several sides, the
steepest being assigned to Alférez Corral, a brave and spirited
leader. Verdugo and Villafuerte were given another side, and Ircio
and Monjaraz the third. Each party consisted of about threescore
men, and included archers and arquebusiers. At a given signal all
rushed forward to the ascent. Soon they were on hands and knees,
crawling over projections and pulling themselves up by means of
shrubs. All the while stones and darts rattled on helmet and
breastplate; and huge rocks came rolling down upon them. In vain
they sought shelter in crevices and under crags; they must face the
storm. Bernal Diaz followed Corral, and after receiving many a hard
knock they gained what was called two turns of the rock. There they
paused and looked around, wondering at their success thus far.
Supporting himself against a small tree, his face bathed in blood, his
banner rent, Corral said, “Señor Diaz, it is useless to advance
farther; not a man will survive.” Then they shouted a warning to
Pedro Barba, at the head of his archers, not to climb farther. “The
order is to advance!” was the reply. The next moment Barba was
wounded by a stone, and a soldier at his side was killed. Cortés then
sounded the recall, but not until eight brave men had laid down their
lives, victims of their commander’s puerility, and of the rest most of
them returned wounded.[1081]
The recall was likewise prompted by the approach of a
considerable force in the valley. This the cavalry charged and quickly
routed, following in close pursuit, though the broken ground soon
enabled the fugitives to gain shelter. During this ride some of the
horsemen came, a league beyond, to another hill fortress, strong in
its natural features, and held by a large force. Near by were some
springs. The need of water was pressing, which afforded a plausible
excuse for abandoning the scaling of Tlayacapan, and the whole
force was moved to the springs. Early next morning Cortés
examined the approaches to the new stronghold. It extended over
three hills, the central one exceedingly steep and held by the largest
force; the others easier of ascent, though higher, and occupied by
smaller numbers. In reconnoitring, Cortés advanced toward the
centre. This movement led the occupants of the other hills to infer an
attack on the central height, and they began to abandon their
positions with a view to reënforce the threatened point. Observing
this, Cortés ordered Barba to occupy the most commanding
elevation with some fifty arquebusiers and archers, while he himself
continued to scale the centre as a feint, for there was little hope of
capturing a point so steep and strongly held. The stones and darts
rained here as previously, and man after man was struck down,
some bleeding freely from the wounds sustained.[1082]
Meanwhile Barba’s sharp-shooters had made so effective a use
of their weapons that within half an hour the volleys from the fortress
ceased, and the women began to wave their robes in token of truce,
shouting their submission. Cortés graciously met the advances, and
extended full pardon. He also prevailed on the chiefs to induce the
Tlayacapans to submit. On the extensive surface of the rock were
collected all the inhabitants of the neighborhood, with their effects,
which Cortés ordered not to be touched.[1083]
The army remained encamped for two days to refresh
themselves after their arduous march, and after sending the
wounded to Tezcuco, Cortés proceeded to Huastepec. The report of
the clemency extended to preceding settlements had a reassuring
effect on this town, whose cacique came forth to welcome them, and
tender his palace for their entertainment. This was situated in a
garden, celebrated throughout New Spain for its beauty and extent,
and the immense variety of its plants, collected partly for scientific
purposes. A river with tributary canals flowed through its grounds,
which extended over a circuit of nearly two leagues, murmuring its
melody in unison with winged songsters hidden in arbors or playing
between bush and hedge, mingling their bright color with the green
expanse. Adjacent were steep rocks, on whose smooth surface were
sculptured the portraits of noted warriors, statesmen, and orators,
with hieroglyphic inscriptions of their fame. It was a paradise formed
equally for student and idler, and to the weary soldiers no spot could
perhaps have proven so grateful. Cortés certainly grows ecstatic in
describing it, declaring it “the largest, most beautiful, and freshest
garden ever seen.”[1084] Tempting as was the retreat, Cortés tore
himself from it the following day, and proceeded in a south-westerly
direction to Yauhtepec. Although many warriors were gathered there,
they fled on the approach of the Spaniards, and were chased, with
some slaughter, for about two leagues, into the town of Xiuhtepec.
[1085] The women and effects there found were appropriated as
spoils, and rendered agreeable the two days’ stay. The ruler failing to
appear, the place was fired, and terrified by this warning the lord of
Yauhtepec hastened to proffer submission.
After a day’s hard march the army came in sight of
Quauhnahuac,[1086] capital of the Tlahuicas. They were one of the
Nahuatlaca tribes, which according to tradition had entered the
Anáhuac country to supplant the Toltecs. Coming rather late, they
found their brethren already in possession of the lake region, and so
they crossed the range to seek a home on the headwaters of the
Zacatula, where soon a number of settlements rose round
Quauhnahuac. They afterward fell under the sway of the
Chichimecs, and finally the Aztecs took advantage of internal discord
to establish sovereignty,[1087] maintaining it by a garrison in the
capital. This was a natural stronghold, situated on a tongue of land
between two steep ravines over forty feet in depth, and through
which ran a little stream during the rainy season. It was further
protected by strong walls, particularly on the side where a strongly
guarded gate opened to a fine stretch of country. Two other
entrances faced the ravines, sometimes spanned by bridges, which
were now removed.
Situated at the gateway to the tropical southern valleys, between
which and the colder lake region interposed a range of mountains,
the spot stood as a new Eden in its manifold beauties. A sight even
of the pine-fringed mountains that rolled off toward the north, with
their green slopes shaded by oak and birch, and bathed in soft
though bracing airs, was refreshing to the indolent inhabitants of the
burning plain beyond. On the other hand the sturdy toilers of the
northern plateaux might in this sunny south seek relaxation in the
varied charms of a softer air balmy with the incense of a more
lustrous vegetation.[1088]
It was an opulent community that of Quauhnahuac, surrounded
as it was by endless resources and advantages, and the people
were in no mood tamely to yield their wealth to invaders. And in this
determination they were sustained by their lord, Yohuatzin,[1089] who
was not only a vassal but a relative of Quauhtemotzin. Confident in
the impregnable position of his city, in which supplies were ample, he
replied with volleys to the demands of the Spanish forces as they
appeared on the other side of the ravines. It seemed almost
impossible to effect a crossing and climb the steep wall of the ravine
to the city; nevertheless Cortés selected a position and began to
open fire so as to occupy the attention of the garrison and cover the
scaling parties.
While they were thus busied a brave Tlascaltec reconnoitred and
came to a point half a league beyond, where the ravine was steepest
and narrowed to an abyss. On the two sides grew two large trees,
which inclined toward each other, with branches intertwined, forming
a sort of natural bridge, though by no means secure. He called the
attention of his party to this and led the way across, followed by
several Spaniards. The natives, who were more accustomed to this
kind of tactics, found comparatively little difficulty in swinging
themselves across; but to the soldiers it was far from easy, and three
of them, overcome by dizziness or weight of armor, slipped and fell.
[1090]
The attention of the inhabitants being attracted elsewhere, a
number of the invaders had gained a secure foothold within the city
before they were observed. Even now a few resolute men might
have driven them back, but such were wanting, and the sudden
appearance of the dreaded white men, as if indeed they had
dropped into the stronghold from some cloud made radiant by the
sun whose reputed children they were, struck terror to the hearts of
the poor natives. All impotent and nerveless, they permitted the
daring strangers to lower the drawbridge, and turned to spread the
panic. Meanwhile the reports of a formidable army advancing from
the rear so wrought on the fears of the garrison that, when the
handful who had crossed on the bushy bridge fell on them, they
offered no resistance. This also allowed the scaling forces to pour in,
so that within a short time the siege was turned into a rout, wherein
the cavalry played a prominent part. The zeal of the allies was
already indicated by smoky columns in different parts of the city, and
the foot-soldiers hastened to share in the rich plunder and intercept
the women.
Most of the fugitives had gathered on an adjacent height, and
though no attempt was made that day to molest them, yet they
began to fear that men who could so readily capture one of the
strongest fortresses in the country, would find no difficulty in reaching
them anywhere; therefore, after listening to the advice of
messengers sent by Cortés, Yohuatzin concluded to surrender, and
presented himself on the following day with a large retinue and rich
presents. The Mexicans were as usual blamed for the opposition
offered. He would have submitted before, but thought it best to
expiate the fault of resistance by allowing the Spaniards to pursue,
so that after spending their fury they might be more ready to forgive.
[1091]
FOOTNOTES
[1062] This is according to Cortés; others differ slightly, and Ixtlilxochitl increases
the Tezcucan force to 60,000. Hor. Crueldades, 13.
[1063] From tocatl and xal, spider and sand. Chimalpain, Hist. Conq., ii. 29. The
lake in which it lies is divided about the centre by an artificial causeway about one
league long, running from east to west, the southern water being now known as
San Cristóbal Ecatepec, from the town of that name, and the northern water as
Xaltocan or Tomanitla, San Cristóbal being also the general term for both waters.
[1065] Bachiller Alonso Perez, afterward fiscal of Mexico. Bernal Diaz, Hist.
Verdad., 135.
[1066] This incident was commemorated by some poetic follower in a ballad which
became a favorite with the conquerors:
[1067] So runs Bernal Diaz’ account, which appears a little exaggerated, for
recently Cortés had shown the greatest caution, and would hardly have allowed
himself to be so readily trapped on so memorable a spot. Hist. Verdad., 126.
Cortés states that not a Spaniard was lost, though several Mexicans fell. Cartas,
187.
[1069] They begged permission to return home, says Chimalpain, Hist. Conq., i.
31. Herrera relates that the efforts of Ojeda, by Cortés’ order, to take from the
Tlascaltecs the gold part of their booty so offended them that they began to desert.
The extortion was accordingly stopped, dec. iii. lib. i. cap. vii. Clavigero doubts the
story. Prescott regards the departure of the allies as distasteful to Cortés; but we
have seen that he did not care at present to encumber himself with too many
unruly auxiliaries to prey upon the peaceful provinces. The Tlascaltecs would
willingly have remained to share in raiding expeditions.
[1072] Lorenzana inspected the position in later times. Cortés, Hist. N. Esp., 214.
[1073] ‘Que todos los que allí se hallaron afirman.’ Cortés, Cartas, 190. The
general lauds the achievement with rare fervor for him. Bernal Diaz sneers at the
river of blood story; but then he was not present to share the glory. The Roman
Mario was less dainty than these Spaniards under a similar circumstance,
commemorated by Plutarch; or as Floro more prosaically puts it: ‘Ut victor
Romanus de cruento flumine non plus aquæ biberit quam sanguinis barbarorum.’
Epitome, lib. iii. cap. iii.
[1074] Fifteen, says Bernal Diaz. Chimalpain, the Chalcan narrator, states that his
tribe lost 350 men, but killed 1500 foes, capturing the captain-general,
Chimalpopocatzin, a relative of the emperor, who now became a captain among
the Tezcucans, and was killed during the siege. Hist. Conq., ii. 34. Some of these
facts are evidently not very reliable. He also assumes that Sandoval lost eight
soldiers on again returning to Tezcuco.
[1075] The ‘comissario’ or clerk in charge of the bulls was Gerónimo Lopez,
afterward secretary at Mexico. Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 129. This author names
several of the arrivals, some of whom became captains of vessels. A number also
arrived during the following week, he adds, notably in Juan de Búrgos’ vessel,
which brought much material.
[1076] Gomara mentions also Maxcaltzinco as a distant place. Hist. Mex., 186.
[1077] The chiefs were awaiting orders to appear before Cortés. The general told
them to wait till tranquillity was more fully restored. The name of the other soldier
was Nicolás. Cortés, Cartas, 203-5. Herrera assumes that Barrientos arrived in
camp during the late Tepeaca campaign, dec. ii. lib. x. cap. xvii.
[1078] Of the rank and file none suffered penalty on returning, for captivity was
regarded as disgraceful only to a noble. Native Races, ii. 419.
[1079] Bernal Diaz states that the soldiers were tired of these repeated calls, many
being also on the sick-list, but Cortés had now a large fresh force only too eager
for a fray attended with spoliation.
[1080] According to a native painting the army entered here April 5th, which is a
day or two too early, and received a reënforcement of 20,000. See copy in
Carbajal Espinosa, Hist. Mex., ii. 523.
[1081] So says Bernal Diaz, Hist. Verdad., 130, who names four. Cortés allows
only two killed and twenty wounded; how many fatally so, he carefully omits to
mention. Cartas, 194.
[1082] Twenty fell, says Bernal Diaz. He speaks of two futile attempts on the
previous evening to scale the central hill. It seems unlikely for soldiers, tired by
repulse and march, to undertake so difficult a feat, and that at the least assailable
point.
[1083] Yet Bernal Diaz relates a story to show that the order was a mere pretence.
[1085] Some write Xilotepec. Bernal Diaz mentions Tepoxtlan, which may have
been visited by a detachment.
[1086] Place of the Eagle. Corrupted into the present Cuernavaca, which
singularly enough means cow’s horn.
[1088] Cortés was so captivated by the alluring clime and scenery that he made
the town his favorite residence in later years. It was included in the domains
granted to him, and descended to his heirs. Madame Calderon speaks of his
ruined palace and church. Life in Mexico, ii. 50.
[1089] Ixtlilxochitl, Hist. Chich., 311. Brasseur de Bourbourg calls him Yaomahuitl.