But he was
destined to encounter a decided opposition from the judges. They
contended that he had no warrant for such an act, and that the
Audience could not lawfully hold its sessions out of the capital.
Blasco Nunez persisted in his determination, menacing that body
with force, if necessary. The judges appealed to the citizens to
support them in resisting such an arbitrary measure. They
mustered a force for their own protection, and that same day
passed a decree that the viceroy should be arrested.
Late at night, Blasco Nunez was informed of the hostile
preparations of the judges. He instantly summoned his followers,
to the number of more than two hundred, put on his armour, and
prepared to march out at the head of his troops against the
Audience. This was the true course; for in a crisis like that in
which he was placed, requiring promptness and decision, the
presence of the leader is essential to insure success. But,
unluckily, he yielded to the remonstrances of his brother and
other friends, who dissuaded him from rashly exposing his life in
such a venture.
What Blasco Nunez neglected to do was done by the judges. They
sallied forth at the head of their followers, whose number,
though small at first, they felt confident would be swelled by
volunteers as they advanced. Rushing forward, they cried out, -
"Liberty! Liberty! Long live the king and the Audience!" It was
early dawn, and the inhabitants, startled from their slumbers,
ran to the windows and balconies, and, learning the object of the
movement, some snatched up their arms and joined in it, while the
women, waving their scarfs and kerchiefs, cheered on the assault.
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