Indeed had it not been for his golden cuirass and helm Guatemoc would never have lived to be emperor of Anahuac, and perhaps it might have been better so.
Now when they saw the puma snarling and tearing at the person of their prince, though brave men enough, the three nobles who were with us were seized by sudden panic and ran, thinking him dead.

But I did not run, though I should have been glad enough to do so.

At my side hung one of the Indian weapons that serve them instead of swords, a club of wood set on both sides with spikes of obsidian, like the teeth in the bill of a swordfish.

Snatching it from its loop I gave the puma battle, striking a blow upon his head that rolled him over and caused the blood to pour.
In a moment he was up and at me roaring with rage.

Whirling the wooden sword with both hands I smote him in mid air, the blow passing between his open paws and catching him full on the snout and head.