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It appeared, that there had been long and hereditary antagonism between the province of Cofaqui, and that of Cofachiqui; and the chief availed himself of that opportunity to invade the territory of his rival. Scouts were sent out in all directions to assemble the warriors, and De Soto was surprised to find an army of four thousand soldiers, and as many burden-bearers, ready to accompany him.
The Indians kept excellent order, having a regular van and rear guard, and making those who carried the provisions and baggage keep in the centre. Every night the two armies lay at some distance, each appointing their own guards. On the third day of the march from Cofaqui they entered upon the wilderness, through which they marched for six days, finding the country very agreeable.
Incidents at Achise Arrival at Cofa. Friendly Reception by Cofaqui. The Armed Retinue. Commission of Patofa. Splendors of the March. Lost in the Wilderness. Peril of the Army. Friendly Relations. The Escape from the Wilderness. They Reach the Frontiers of Cofachiqui. Dismissal of Patofa. Wonderful Reception by the Princess of Cofachiqui.
The meeting, on both sides, was equally cordial. Side by side, almost hand in hand, the Floridians and the Spaniards entered the pleasant streets of Cofaqui. The chief led De Soto to his own mansion, and left him in possession there while he retired to another dwelling. The intercourse between these two illustrious men seemed to be as cordial as that between two loving brothers.
In response to Cofa's message, Cofaqui dispatched four of his subordinate chiefs, with a message of welcome to the Spaniards. He sent out his runners to bring him speedy intelligence of their approach. As soon as he received news that they were drawing near, he started himself, with a retinue of warriors in their richest decorations, to welcome the strangers.
Next day, Cofaqui returned to Soto, offering a supply of provisions and a strong escort of armed Indians, to enable the Spaniards to cross a desert or wilderness of seven days journey leading to the next province of Cofachiqui . Immediately there appeared four thousand Indians to carry burdens, and the like number armed, to accompany the Spaniards.
Again the army resumed its march towards the next province, which was called Cofaqui; whose chief was brother of Cofa. The Spaniards were escorted by Cofa and a division of his army, during one day's journey.
The next province belonged to a brother of Cofa, named Cofaqui, who came out to meet the Spaniards attended by a great number of his people, all finely adorned with plumes of feathers, and wearing mantles of rich sables and other valuable furs. After this friendly reception, the cacique went away to another town, leaving his own entirely for the accommodation of the Spaniards.
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