noon
A strong force at once landed on the mainland , and threw up a fortified camp . The Mexicans came in , in crowds , with fruit , vegetables , flowers , and other articles , which they bartered with the Spaniards . They brought news that the Mexican governor of the province intended to visit them , the next day . Before noon , he arrived with his numerous suite . A banquet was served to them , and then , in answer to the cazique 's inquiries as to the objects of their visit , he was informed by Cortez that he was the subject of a great monarch beyond the seas , who ruled over a vast empire ; and that , hearing of the greatness of the Mexican Emperor , he had sent him as an envoy , with a present in token of his goodwill , and a message which he must deliver in person . The cazique said that he would send couriers with the royal gift to Montezuma ; and that , as soon as he had learned his will , he would communicate it . He then presented ten slave loads of fine cottons , mantles of rich feather work , and a basket filled with gold ornaments to Cortez ; who then handed over the presents intended for Montezuma .