The natives fought bravely, but were unable to resist the astounding effect of the Spaniards' firearms; and the invaders, advancing, drove them back and took possession of the town, which was found to be deserted.
Two strong parties were sent out next morning to reconnoiter, but were attacked and driven back to the town.

They reported that the whole country was under arms.

Cortez was much vexed at finding himself thus engaged in a war, from which no benefit was to be gained; but he felt that it would impair the confidence of his troops, were he now to draw back.

He therefore landed six of the guns and the horses, and the following day sallied out to the attack.

Ordaz commanded the infantry, while Cortez himself led the little body of cavalry, the horses being mounted by the cavaliers of the party.
After marching a league, the infantry came in sight of the enemy.
The natives attacked them as they were struggling through deeply irrigated ground, poured volleys of missiles of all kinds upon them, and wounded many before they could get across to solid ground, where they could bring the guns into play.