Beside them were borne their banners, richly embroidered with gold and feather work, while behind them were a body of soldiers, in close vests of quilted cotton, and a train of slaves.
The merchants bowed low as the nobles approached.

The latter paused for a moment as they came near to Roger, and then saluted him by touching the ground with their hands, and then carrying them to their heads.

Roger did the same.

In the meantime several attendants round the nobles were filling the air with incense, from censers which they bore.
"The King of Tezcuco has sent us to welcome you," one of the nobles said.

"He longs to see the white stranger who has arrived in our land." "I have heard of the greatness of the king," Roger replied, "and desire to look upon him.