Chapter IV: Front Matter (4)

_Bartholomeus de las Casas_ writ to _Charles the Fifth_, That the _Spaniards_ in few years, onely on the Islands _Cuba_, _Hispaniola_, _Naco_, _Hondures_, in _Venezuela_ and _New Spain_, destroy’d above 2600000. Men, besides the slaughter that was made in _Peru_, _Brasil_, _Rio de la Plata_ and other places, which far exceed the foremention’d numbers.

Polygamy is still in use, both among the _Tartars_ and _Americans_; both acknowledge the Immortality of the Soul, both like _Cannibals_, Eating and Sacrificing Mans flesh. How famous amongst the Antients was the Altar of _Diana_ in _Taurica Chersonesus_, where several Men were daily Sacrificed? How delicate, according to _Sabellicus_, did the _Tartars_ account their Dishes, Sauc’d and serv’d with humane Gore?

[Sidenote: _Geogr._ l. 11 q. 7.]

_Strabo_ relates, That the antient People account it an honourable Death to be chop’d in pieces, and their flesh serv’d up in Commons. Those that die by Age, a natural death, are despis’d like Malefactors, and as a punishment according to their Demerits, left in the open Fields, a prey to Birds and Beasts; some delight in that loathsome gorging themselves with Mens flesh, others on the contrary, not onely detest humane, but all manner of flesh: And just so the _Americans_ are distinguish’d, for although the _Caribes_, _Brasilians_, the Inhabitants of _New Spain_, _New Granada_, _St. Martha_, and others, Sacrifice and eat Men, yet as many abhor and detest that odious Diet and abominable Custom.

_Giles Flesher_ Queen _Elisabeths_ Agent in _Muscow_ relates, That _Anno 1588._ _Kinach Morsey_, Grandson to the Governor of the _Chrim Tartars_, made his entrance there with a Retinue of three hundred Noblemen, and two Ladies, of which one was the Widow of his deceased Brother. The great Prince inform’d of their coming, sent him two slaughter’d Horses, whose sides and Hanches they feasted on, as we on Fallow Deer.

[Sidenote: Devil-worship in _Americ_.]

Most of the _Tartars_ use no manner of Letters or Characters; in the Voyage made into _Persia_, they first learn’d to make Letters; just so it is in _America_; their bemoaning of the dead ends in one Moneth, both by the _Tartars_ and _Americans_; with a Person of Quality, the _Tartars_ bury a live Servant; the same Custom is observ’d by some of the _Americans_; and so much do they agree in a salvage and rude life, that Merchandizing and Mechanicks are little regarded. _Ayson_ the _American_ acknowledges the _Tartars_ for a rude People in their Religion, Habits, and Dwellings, and yet in all these the _Americans_ differ but very little. Lastly, How common is it amongst them to worship the Devil? Along the River _Sagadahoc_, the Inhabitants are every new Moon miserably tormented by an Evil Spirit call’d _Tanto_. In the Temples in _Virginia_ remain yet the horrible Images of the Devils _Oka_ and _Menetto_. Not a House in _Mexico_, but hath a peculiar Chappel, set apart for this their suppos’d holy, but damnable Adoration of the Devil. Others in _Virginia_ believe, That there is a great and supreme Deity, which is Everlasting, and for ever. The _Tartars_ also are of the like perswasion.

[Sidenote: _Tartarian_ Horses.]

But this Opinion _Grotius_ hath laid a strong and dangerous Battery against, that _America_ could not be Peopled by the _Tartars_, because the _Americans_ before the _Spaniards_ coming thither, had never seen any Horses; whereas the _Tartars_ use no Beast more, either in Peace or War, nor can less want: For the _Tartarian_ Forces do not only consist in Horse; but the Wealth of this Countrey is reckon’d up in the numerous Breeds of Horses, and several Studs of Mares. Some of the Nobless keep a thousand Horse; none, though never so poor, but keep two or three; and Beggars there mounted crave Alms and Charity of the People. When they remove their Habitations, their Horses carry their Provisions and Tents: If Provisions grow short, they eat Mares Milk, high gusted with Garlick, which satisfies Hunger and Thirst; and the red Liquor which they tap warm from their Veins, serves them to help Digestion, and heighten their Humor, instead of the Blood of the Grape, our sweet Wine. The swiftest Rivers, though raging and precipitated with Land-floods, they dare adventure swimming their Horses over, hanging naked by their Manes, and guiding them by a slipp’d Rein whither they please: To their Tails they tie their Saddles, and other Necessaries, bound up in Rushes. When a Person of Quality prepares to cross any River, they tie two Horses Tail to Tail, and athwart both their Backs fasten a Mat pleited of Rushes, to sit on. When they are stopp’d at any broad River, or standing Lake, they kill and flea their worst Horses; then turning the Skins inside out, and well Liquoring, they stretch them open with the Ribs, which stand like the Bayles of a Tilted Wherry, and thus furnish’d, serves them for a Boat to carry eight Persons. When they take the Field, going to War, not any but musters three Horses; which makes their Armies, when drawn out in Campain, shew much bigger than indeed they are: And though many of them are kill’d in the Wars, or slain for Food, yet the _European Tartars_ pay yearly forty thousand Horses to the _Russians_; from whence _Grotius_ thus argues, “If _America_ joyns to _Tartary_, then the Horses which run wild at Grass might easily have found _America_ themselves, seeking to improve their Pasture, and have gone from one Countrey into the other, as it appears, that since the _Spaniards_ transported Horses to _America_, they are dispers’d over the highest Mountains, out of one Province into the other: Or if the _Straights of Anian_ run between both, the _Tartars_ never were Navigators; and suppose they had been, they would not have cross’d without Horses, without which they knew not how to subsist.” To which we only say thus, That although _Tartary_ now, and in former times, abounded in Horse, yet must we grant, that it hath been always so? or that the ancient _Scythians_, who we avouch first planted _America_, had such frequent use of them as the _Tartars_ now. This may be controverted, for that these _Scythians_ planting there in the Non-age of Time, presently after the Flood, the use of Horses was unknown, which the Ancient Poets testifie by their Fiction of _Centaurs_, who when first seen, the Horse and Rider were taken for one Creature. The like mistake the _Mexicans_ had, when they saw the mounted _Spaniards_, a thousand running away from one Cavalier.

As to their coming thither of themselves, it may easily be confuted: Who knows not, that there is no Countrey a continu’d Pasture, but luxurious Vales separated with inaccessible Mountains, Lakes, and vast Wildernesses. But _David Ingram_ relates, “That he saw some Horses in the Northern _America_, which the _Mexicans_, and other Conquests of the _Spaniards_ never heard of:” Whereupon we may conclude, and we suppose without all peradventure, That the _Americans_ have absolutely their Original from _Tartary_, which bordering _Armenia_, where _Noah_’s Ark first rested, hath a convenient way, though beyond the _Artick Circle_, through a temperate Climate betwixt Heat and Cold, to _Cathay_, in the same Parallel with the neighboring _America_.

CHAP. III.
_First Discoverers of_ America. Christopher Colonus _his Expedition_.

[Sidenote: _Pet Bizari Res Genoan._ lib. 16.]

[Sidenote: _Lib. 11. Hist. Georg._]

[Sidenote: _Christoph. Colonus_’s Birth.]

_Christopher Colonus_, generally (though by mistake) call’d _Columbus_, was born in _Arbizolo_, a Village in the Dominion of _Genoa_, near _Savona_; his Father liv’d by Fishing in the Midland-Sea: So that _Sebastian Schroter_, and others besides him, are mistaken, saying, _Colonus_ was born in the City _Cucureum_, and descended of the Noble Family _Pilistrelli_: For _Peter Bezarus_, _Colonus_ his Countrey-man, gives unquestionable Proofs of his mean Extract; and amongst other things, That the Common-wealth of _Genoa_ refus’d to receive the great Legacy which _Colonus_ left them in his Will, because they fondly thought it a derogation to their Honor, being so great a Republick, to take any thing of Bequest from a Fishers Son: Yet his Majesty of _Castile_ thought otherwise, not onely enriching him with Wealth, and a fair Revenue for his Discovery of the _West-Indies_; but also, though of a low derivation, rais’d him to great Honor, Ennobling him the first of his Family with Dignities, Titles, and Escutcheon, which rank’d him in place among his Prime Nobility.

[Sidenote: His Life.]

[Sidenote: Strange Accident. _Hist. Peru._]

[Sidenote: Makes his Address at _Genoa_.]

[Sidenote: _To the Portuguese_,]

[Sidenote: _English_,]

[Sidenote: And _Castilian_ King, concerning a New World.]

[Sidenote: Sails from _Cadiz_ to discover New Countreys.]

[Sidenote: His People rebel.]

[Sidenote: Discovers _Hispaniola_.]

[Sidenote: Trades with the Natives.]

_Colonus_, whom we shall henceforth call _Columbus_, spent his Youth near the Sea, where he was busie exploring the Winds, considering their Natures, and the Quarters whence they rose, especially with the setting of the Current from the _Atlantick_ to the _Mediterrane_. The Western Winds, which often, as well as the _Levant_, blow several days together from the great Ocean, much amusing him, hinted at last some Notions, that there might be another World, and new Places to be discover’d, beyond the setting of the Sun; and that the _Ne plus ultra_ should not be, if he could help it, the commanding Terminary of the Earth that way. He also spent much time, being of a solid Judgment, in the Emendations of Charts and Maps, then very much improvable: And the _Portuguese_, who at that time had got the start in Navigation from all other People, being then busie to find a way by the South of _Africa_ to the _East-Indies_, not contented to go by hearsay, he went himself in Person a Voyage with them. Soon after _Columbus_ settled himself in the Island _Madera_, where an Accident hapned, which _Francis Lopez de Gomesa_ relates thus: “The Master of a Ship, whose Name and Countrey lies buried in Oblivion (though some would have him to be of _Spain_, some an _Andalusian_ or _Biscayner_, and others a _Portuguese_) Trading the _Canaries_ and _Flemmish-Isles_, was surpris’d by a hideous Tempest from the East, which hurried him _nolens volens_ through dreadful Waves, where at last he found himself ingag’d upon a Western Coast, altogether unknown. The Storm ceasing, without making further Discoveries, he pick’d his way homeward, at last Landing in the Haven of _Madera_: All his Crew but three and himself, with hardship, want, and the long Voyage having perish’d, himself dangerously sick, was carried into _Columbus_ his House; where lying on his Death-Bed, he bequeath’d to _Columbus_ his Maps, Journals, and other Observations of this his unfortunate Voyage.” _Columbus_ being by these Papers more confirm’d than ever in his Opinion of a New World in the West, declar’d what he verily believ’d, to the States of _Genoa_; but they look’d upon him as a vain and idle Fellow; yet _Columbus_ full of his great Project, thus slighted and scornfully rejected, sate not so down, but address’d himself to the King of _Portugal_, where they wearied him, spending long time with dilatory Answers, to no effect; the Opinion of a whole Court of expert Navigators having cast his Declaration out, as a _Chimera_ or meer Fancy. Soon after _Columbus_ sending his Brother into _England_, to move the Business to King _Henry_ the Seventh, he being taken Prisoner by the way, and lying long er’e his Release, came too late to the _English_ Court, prevented by the News of _Christopher_’s return with Success from his intended Voyage: For mean while _Ferdinando_ and _Isabella_ King of _Castile_, having finish’d his Wars with the _Moors_, had furnish’d him out for the Expedition; which he effected by the favor of _Alfonso Mendotio_ and _Alfonso Quintavilia_, both great Ministers of State under _Ferdinand_ and _Isabel_, and obtain’d so much at last, that he was sent with a hundred and twenty Souldiers, besides Sea-men, in two Ships, and one Pinnace. Thus supplied, he set Sail from _Cadiz_ upon the Kings account the fourth of _August, Anno 1492._ and first reach’d the _Canary-Islands_, and from thence steering South-West, the Wind in thirty three days scarce varying one Point: But though the Weather blew so constant, yet the Sea-men chang’d their Minds, and Storm’d quite contrary, crying, That _Columbus_ was guilty of all their Deaths: _For_ (said they, after they had lost sight of the _Canaries_ so many days, nothing appearing but Sea and Sky) _Who can hope for any Success or happy conclusion of so desperate a Voyage, so rashly undertaken, and found now so full of eminent danger?_ Yet _Columbus_ bore bravely up, and weather’d all their Exclamations, although they threatned no less than his Murder: At last Articling, they came to this Agreement, _That if after sailing forwards three days more, no Land were discover’d, they should return_: But about two a Clock the next Night, _Columbus_ saw a glimmering like Fire in the Sky, and in the Morning found himself close aboard a most pleasant Coast, where Landing with twelve Men, he erected a Cross cut out of a Tree. Thence he sail’d over to _Cuba_, where the Sea was so rough, that he was forc’d to stand off, fearing Rocks and Shallow Water. Soon after he got to the Northward of the Island _Haytin_, which he call’d _Hispaniola_: Here his best Ship was bulged upon a Rock, on which they had all perish’d, had it not been flat on the top, so that the Soldiers and the whole Crew of Sea-men were sav’d by the two Vessels. The Inhabitants stark naked, seeing these Strangers, fled to the Woods; but the _Spaniards_ overtaking a Woman, they entertain’d her with Sweet-meats and _Spanish_ Wine, and putting her on a white Shirt, sent her again to the rest of the Natives, where return’d, she told what good Entertainment she had had to her Companions; whereupon divers of the Islanders came aboard of the _Spaniards_, in Boats made of one piece of Wood, where they barter’d Gold for Beads, pieces of Glass, Knives, Shells, and other Trifles. The King of _Guaccanarillo_ gave testimony of peculiar inclination to the _Spaniards_, helping them to Fish up the remaining Goods of the Wreck, and inform’d them, That some Rivers flowing from the tops of high Mountains, wash’d down the Gold amongst the Sand: notwithstanding a strange Prophecy had been told to these Islanders, namely, _That Bearded Men out of remote Countries should destroy their Goods, take their Land, and massacre their Children_. He also told them what made them fly, and betake them to their Heels at the arrival of the _Spaniards_, because they were oftentimes surpris’d by the _Cannibals_, who snatch’d up all they could lay hold on: Their Boys and Striplings they gelded, cooping and cramming them up, as we our Capons, for Feasts: The young and well-grown Men they chopp’d to pieces, salted, and Barrel’d up: Young Women they preserv’d for breed, and old ones they made Slaves. These _Cannibals_ were so terrible to the Inhabitants of _Haytin_, that a thousand of them durst not venture to engage against ten, but would run every way, dispers’d like Flocks of Sheep before the Wolf.

Lastly, Their King permitted the _Spaniards_ to build a Lodge or Hovel, wherein thirty or forty of them might shelter; but indeed so taking possession in right of the King of _Spain_.

[Sidenote: Returns to _Spain_.]

[Sidenote: Is highly honor’d.]

[Sidenote: Goes with seventeen Sail a second time to _Hispaniola_.]

Mean while _Columbus_ return’d in safety to _Spain_, and was receiv’d with great joy, King _Ferdinand_ making him Admiral of the Sea, and sending his Brother _Bartholomew_ Governor to _Haytin_, now call’d _Hispaniola_. The Gold, Parrots, Mastick, Aloes, the strange Bread _Jucca_, whose extracted Juyce is rank Poyson, but the Body makes good Meal, which kneaded and bak’d, yields a fine Manchet and wholesom Food, they look’d upon with great delight and admiration; but two of the Natives being naked, with Gold Rings through their Noses and Ears, Ornaments with them of high esteem, and signifying their no mean Quality, the People old and young came in Throngs to wonder at, never weary of gazing upon them. But the King, encourag’d by this Success, took no dilatory Course, but suddenly, and before any could expect, built fourteen stout Carvels, and three Frigats, and as soon mann’d them with twelve hundred Soldiers, besides a great number of Artificers of all sorts, with their Wives and Children, freighting them with Horses, Swine, Goats, Cattel for Breed, all sorts of _European_ Corn to sow, Fruit-Trees and Vines to plant, and some Priests to instruct and convert the Natives to their Religion.

[Sidenote: _The Barbadoes_, _St. Christophers_, _&c._]

[Sidenote: The Huts of the _Cannibals_.]

The second of _September_, _Anno 1493._ they set sail from _Cadiz_, and Anchor’d before _Ferreo_, the last and furthest of the _Canary-Islands_, where they could get no Water, but what dropp’d from the Dew hanging on Trees into Troughs. After that, _Columbus_ came on the one and twentieth day amongst the _Caribby-Islands_, where he dropp’d Anchor before one, which he call’d _Dominico_; but finding it desolate, set sail further, and discover’d several other Coasts, where he likewise found nothing but very great Porcupines or Hedg-hogs, and sweet-smelling Trees. Steering forward, he found the Coasts of the _Cannibals_, which inhabited along the Shore in little Huts or Hovels, built round of Wood, and stak’d about on the out-side with long Poles, like _Palisado_’s: They have also Posts within, which are shorter, pleited and fastned together with Cotton, or long Roots of Trees, plyant like our Osiars, over which they hang Cloths painted with horrible Figures and strange Representations: The Roofs rise like our Canopy’d Tents, highest in the middle, cover’d with Palm-Tree Leaves to keep off the Rain: At the Entrances hang two Hairy Images on Poles, not for Religion sake, but Ornament: Their Bed-steads being high from the Ground, are fill’d with a kind of Straw; and in long Hovels fitted for that purpose they store their Sugar.

[Sidenote: Island _Guadalupe_.]

_Columbus_ landing here, found all the _Cannibals_ fled; but their Houses full of Stone Vessels, Cruises, Pans, and Pots, boyling with Mens Flesh, Parrots, and Wild-foul; the Hanches and Sides of young Men, on Spits roasting at the Fire, with the Splinters of whose broken Bones they headed their Arrows. This Island by the Inhabitants call’d _Carucueria_, _Columbus_ chang’d to _Guadalupe_, because the Mountains rise up with their tops not unlike _Estremadura_ in _Spain_, famous there for the wonderful Representation of our Lady, as that of the Lady of _Loretto_ in _Italy_. Thirty Women which he had taken from the neighboring Isles, he sent with Presents to the fled _Canibals_, which the next day returning, made a great appearance near the Shore; but when they had gaz’d a while upon the _Spaniards_, looking stedfastly on one another, they suddenly ran back again, sheltring themselves in the Covert of the Woods. _Columbus_ thinking it not worth his while to expect their return, seeing their barbarous Life, burnt and destroy’d all their Boats, and spoiling whatever he could, sail’d to _Matanino_.

[Sidenote: Strange Women in _Matanino_.]

The releas’d Women in _Guadalupe_, that came back again, inform’d the _Spaniards_, That _Matanino_ was an Isle onely inhabited by Women, which at accustom’d times row’d over to these _Cannibals_, where a while they drove a Trade and Commerce of Love, the Product of which, if Girls, they kept; but the Boys they sent over to their Fathers. They live in Caves, the Mouths and Entrances of which they maintain and stoutly make good with their Bowe, shooting Arrows as thick as Hail at the approach of Men, after their impregnating by the _Cannibals_.

[Sidenote: Remarkable Passage of _Columbus_.]

[Sidenote: Salvageness of the _Indians_.]

From hence the Fleet pass’d by several other fruitful Islands, _Columbus_ giving them the Names of _Montseratto_, _Rodondo_, _St. Martin_, _Santa Cruz_, formerly by the Inhabitants call’d _Ayaya_. On this last Island he landed thirty Men, who took four Women, which held out their Hands before them, as if Petitioners that begg’d Quarter, or praying, and then conceal’d themselves in Ambuscade, the better to surprize more; when by chance they spied an _Indian_ _Canoo_ at Sea, with eight Men, and as many Women; whereupon those in Ambuscade made a Signal to the next Ship, which immediately sent off some Boats well Mann’d; but before they drew near them, or expected an On-set, one of the _Spaniards_ was kill’d, and another wounded with their Arrows; amongst whom a Woman, to whom all the rest shew’d greatest Respect and Reverence, aim’d very exactly. Their barbed Shafts were poyson’d; whereupon the _Spaniards_ enrag’d, stemm’d the _Canoo_, and oversetting, row’d quite over; which little or nothing avail’d; for they all swam, and though separated, shot their Arrows at them, as if the Boat had been a But. At last the _Indians_ got upon a blind Rock, cover’d with Shole Water, which gave them fresh Courage; but the _Spaniards_ having more aid sent them from the Fleet, took them all Prisoners; but the Queens Son being wounded in the Scuffle, and dying soon after, was thrown overboard. The Prisoners being brought before _Columbus_, foam’d at the Mouth for raging madness; and being afterwards carried to _Castile_, so retain’d their fierce and salvage Nature, that they scar’d away and frighted the safe Beholders.

[Sidenote: _Columbus_ comes to _Hispaniola_.]

[Sidenote: Finds the _Spaniards_ slain.]

[Sidenote: His Discourse with the King _Guaccanarillo_.]

[Sidenote: Strange gathering of Gold.]

[Sidenote: _Decas 1. De Orba Novo._]

Mean while the _Spanish_ Fleet proceeded on their Voyage, between several Islands, to _Hispaniola_, of which some appear desolate and barren, others green and Woody; the small Vessels sailing close under the Shore, and the great ones standing further off at Sea, which was very turbulent, and beat exceedingly against the Shole Rocks. The Island _Burichema_, _Columbus_ call’d _St. Johns_, to which belong’d some of the Women sent forth in _Guadalupe_, who inform’d them, That _Burichema_ was well inhabited by a kind and hospitable People, who when the _Cannibals_ landed there fought them, and if Conquerors, were so much exasperated with their inhumane Barbarisms, that they seiz’d on them like Mastiffs open-mouth’d, and tore them piece-meal with their Teeth; yet themselves abhorring the Custom of eating Mens Flesh. Here the _Spaniards_ found onely a large House, surrounded with twelve lesser ones, all deserted; for the Inhabitants with their King _Chiasichio_ were then retir’d into the cool and more sheltring Woods, from the mid-day Heat. All this the _Indians_ told him, which he brought back with him from _Spain_. Coming to an Anchor at _Hispaniola_, he sent one of the _Indians_ ashore, that he might tell what brave things he had seen in the _Spanish_ Court; but the remaining three took the advantage of the following Night, and leaping over-board, swam to Shore. But this Accident he not much regarded, trusting to have a sufficient Account from his eight and thirty _Spaniards_ which he had left in the Fort upon the Island; and the more, because King _Guaccanarillo_’s brother, in sign of Friendship, had presented him with two Golden Images: But all these Conjectures fail’d him, so that hearing nothing, he landed, where he found the _Spanish_ Garrison utterly destroy’d, and the Royal Fort burnt down to the Ground, and lying in a heap of Ashes. Then they fired several Guns, to give notice, that if any of them had conceal’d themselves, and lay sculking in the Woods, or otherwise, they should discover themselves, and come to the succour of their Friends: But all in vain, for none came; for as they were afterwards inform’d, the Inhabitants had slain them, because of their insupportable behavior, insolently committing Robberies, Rapes, and Murders: Hereupon he sent Messengers to the King _Guaccanarillo_, to inquire why they had fired his Fort, and what they had done with his Men, who brought him this Return, That over that mighty Island were many Princes, of which two being provok’d by the reports of the Strangers that were entertain’d in the Island, came marching upon them, each with their Armies; but that he endeavor’d what he could, and came with a Power to assist the Strangers; yet all he got for his Kindness, was a Wound in his Leg, which had been so sore and troublesom, that forc’d him to keep his Bed, and no less than seven Concubines to attend him, and dress the Wound: But he told his Tale so ill, and feign’d his Lameness worse, that _Sibilius_, one of the Messengers sent by _Columbus_, lifting up the Coverlet, saw that he ail’d nothing, which soon confirm’d his doubt, that he was confederated with the rest, and alike guilty of the Slaughter. At last _Guaccanarillo_ being desir’d, came in Person to _Columbus_, in whose presence he held a long Discourse with an _Indian_ Woman, which they had brought from the Island of _Santa Cruz_, there Christned by the Name of _Catharine_: At length _Guaccanarillo_ was dismiss’d, and the Night following this _Catharine_, with seven more of the _Indian_ Women, leap’d over-board, and swom almost a League to Shore, so going thence directly to their King _Guaccanarillo_. This Accident gave more suspicion to _Columbus_, who thereupon sent three hundred Men, commanded by _Melchior_, _Hoieda_, and _Gorvalano_, to march through the Island three several ways, and with special Commission to secure as their Prisoner _Guaccanarillo_. _Melchior_ discover’d a wide River, full of Reaches and winding Bays, gliding between high Hills cover’d with Woods, resounding with the ecchoing noises of harmonious Birds, and disemboguing his Waters, enlarg’d by two other Rivers, into the Sea, so making a convenient Harbor for Ships. Here a hundred of the Islanders, well Arm’d after their manner, met them, crying aloud, _We are no_ Cannibals, _but_ Taynos, that is, _a People more civil than they are cruel_. The _Spaniards_ making Signs of Peace, the _Taynos_ approach’d, and joyn’d their Forces in a friendly manner. Near the place of this Meeting appear’d a House built in an Oval fashion, being thirty two Paces in the Circumference, the Roof curiously pleited of divers colour’d Rushes, round about which stood thirty lesser Dwellings. Mean while, in his March _Hoieda_ discover’d a River that descended from a high Mountain, where the Inhabitants gather’d much Gold after this manner: They dig a Hole about two Foot deep; then taking up their left Hand full of Sand, with their right Hand they cull out the precious Ingots, which little accounting of, as they gather’d, they dealt away to the _Spaniards_. Most of the Pieces were as big as Pease, yet some so large, that they weigh’d nine Ounces. _Peter Martyr_, Councellor to the Emperor _Charles_, tells us, That he hath seen of them in the _Spanish_ Court, that were brought over thither by _Columbus_. Moreover, _Hoieda_ was inform’d here, That this Gold-River took its Original in the Province belonging to _Cacicus Caunaboa_, signifying, _The King of the Golden Palace_.

[Sidenote: _Columbus_ builds a City.]

[Sidenote: Strange fruitfulness there.]

Mean time _Columbus_ selected a piece of Ground on a rising Hill, on the North part of the Isle, where he intended to build a City, because close by the Hill on one side rises a Mountain, pregnant with Stone and Chalk; on the other, a Plain, so exceeding fruitful and pleasant, that the Sun scarce shines upon a more delightful and fertile Soil, which they found afterwards by experience. Here Melons are set and ripe in thirty six days; Corn, in two Months; twice a Year the Trees and Plants bring forth their several Products; the Vines come to maturity, and are loaden with Clusters of Grapes, in two Years, and Sugar-Canes grow as thick as a Mans Arm in fifteen days. On this pleasant Soil, accommodated with a convenient Haven, _Columbus_ afterwards built the City _Isabella_, fortified with Walls and Trenches against all Invasions, over which he made his Brother _Bartholomew Columbus_ first Governor.

Mean while the Admiral _Columbus_ himself march’d up into the Countrey with three hundred Men, in quest of the Gold Mines. Seventy two Leagues the Valley _Cibava_ lies distant from _Isabella_, to which _Columbus_ pass’d over swift Currents and high Mountains, where he built a Fort, which he call’d _St. Thomas_; and exchang’d with the Inhabitants Toys and Trifles, for Pieces and Ingots of Gold, which the Inhabitants, as before-mention’d, found in the Sand of their Rivers: And besides, they inform’d him, That about half a days Journey further, greater Quantities of Gold were to be found, in a browner colour’d Soil: Whereupon _Luxanus_, one of his Officers, was sent with a sufficient Party thither, who march’d through a delightful way, cool with shady Boughs, and pleasant with the prospect of spacious Meadows, where they mow’d Grass for their Horses, which in four days time grew up again higher than our tallest Wheat.

[Sidenote: Goes to Sea to discover new Countreys.]

Mean time _Columbus_ being return’d with great Riches to his new City _Isabella_, went soon after by Sea, with three Vessels, to discover new Countreys more remote; which his Design fell out also successfully; for he fell first upon _Jamaica_, where he found more stout Opposition than elsewhere, by the Natives, at his Landing; but finding themselves over-power’d, they came to Agreement, and accepting an amicable Composure, presently struck up a Peace. From thence putting to Sea, he next discover’d _Cuba_, which sailing round about, he found also to be an Island; where Landing in a convenient Harbor, on each fenc’d with a high and jutting Rock, he espied two little Hovels, wherein was abundance of Fish, besides two great Snakes or Serpents, each having eight Feet, spitted, and ready to be laid to the Fire to be roasted; but neither Man, Woman, nor Child to be seen, they being gone with part of the Fish they had dress’d, into the adjacent Woods; whither the _Spaniards_ following, saw hanging by small Strings, on the Branches of Trees, abundance of Snakes, some of which had their Mouths tied together, others their Tongue and Teeth pull’d out. Hence marching on, a little beyond they saw a Company of the Natives, which they judg’d to be about seventy Men, covering the top or summit of a Hill, to whom the _Spaniards_ made Signs, and to entice them near, shew’d several of their gawdy Trifles; but in vain, till at last one adventur’d, descending from the Hill, to whom one of the Natives (who in the first Voyage that the Admiral made, was taken from the Island _Guanabaini_ near _Cuba_, carried to _Spain_, and there Christned) call’d aloud, telling him they need not fear, they should have no harm done them; which said, they came down all together, and inform’d them, That they were sent by their King to catch Fish for another King, which was with him at Dinner; and if they had not eaten the Serpents, they gave them many thanks; for they were provided for the second Course, and very scarce to be got, being a greater Dainty than any Fish.

[Sidenote: Discovers not without great Accidents, several New
Countreys.]

_Columbus_ from hence proceeding on further Westward, discover’d a fruitful Coast, verging the Mouth of a River, whose Water runs boyling hot into the Sea. Somewhat further he saw very strange Fishes, especially the _Guaican_, not unlike an Eel, but with an extraordinary great Head, over which hangs a Skin like a Bag. This Fish is the Natives Fisher; for having a Line or handsom Cord fastned about him, so soon as a Turtel, or any other of his Prey, comes above Water, they give him Line; whereupon the _Guaican_, like an Arrow out of a Bowe, shoots towards the other Fish, and then gathering the Mouth of the Bag on his Head like a Purse-net holds them so fast, that he lets not loose till hal’d up out of the Water.

Here the _Spaniards_ having Din’d on delicate Fish, went on still Westward, and came to an uninhabited Isle, but well stor’d with Geese, Pelicans, and ugly Dogs that could not bark. Here they came amongst so many Shoals, that the Keels of their Ships raked upon the Ground almost forty Leagues together, the Water thick and white like Milk. Lastly, they came again into deep Water, and Landed at the Foot of a high Mountain, on the Island _Cuba_; where they found two Springs of very sweet Water. A Musqueteer going into the Woods whilst the rest fill’d their Vessels with Water and cut Wood, he spied a tall Man in a Coat like a white Fryer’s Frock; behind whom came two more, and soon after thirty more follow’d, all alike Habited: the Musqueteer running away, they beckned him to stay, but he march’d off; and informing _Columbus_ of his Adventure, he sent a Party well Arm’d to see farther into the Countrey; but they neither saw nor heard any Men, onely found on the other side of the Wood a great Plain, but so overgrown with deep Grass, that it was impossible to get through: The next day he sent out twenty five more, which found nothing else than the Prints of the Steps of great Beasts and Lyons, and also abundance of large Grapes, which hung on the Branches of Vines, clasping about the Bodies of the great Trees.

Hence _Columbus_ again putting to Sea, and Sailing Westerly, found a Shore overflow’d with Water, and abounding with Pearl-Mussles, and after that the whole Countrey full of Mountains, whose tops smoaked. By this time the Fleet was much damnified by the Shole-water; where, as we mention’d before, they often struck, and their Keels rak’d upon the Ground; so that having sprung several Leaks, and their Provisions growing mouldy with the Damp, they were forc’d to return; and Tacking about they ran against Turtles, which lay as thick in the Sea as if they had been sow’n.

_Columbus_ now on his return home, and Landing once more on _Cuba_, found an antient Man stark naked, who speaking to him (_Didacus_ interpreted, the Language in some part agreeing with that of _Hispaniola_) to this effect:

_You have to all admiration come to see this Countrey from another World, my advice to you is, That you hurt none; for the Souls of evil-doers go to dark places: But on the contrary, they shall enjoy the heighth of all Pleasures that are Friends to Peace._

_Columbus_ reply’d, _That he came a Scourge for the cruel Cannibals, but a Shield to protect the quiet and well-meaning Indians_.

[Sidenote: Great disturbance in _Hispaniola_.]

After this, returning to _Hispaniola_, much contrary to his expectation, he found all things which he had setled there turn’d topsie-turvy: for first the Governors at _Isabella_ jangled, and were at private contentions amongst themselves, and the _Benedictine_ Monk _Boilus_ and _Peter Margarites_ were return’d to _Spain_; there to make their complaints at Court: and besides, the _Spaniards_ had dealt very inhumanely with the Natives, by their frequent Rapes, Thefts, and Murders; wherefore the _Indians_, not unjustly incens’d, destroy’d all the _Spaniards_ they found stragling in any part without the Lines of their Fortification. _Caunaboa_ also lay about the Fort _St. Thomas_, and closely besieged _Hoieda_; but receiving intelligence of _Columbus_’s arrival, he broke up his Siege, and march’d from thence, but soon after was taken Prisoner by the _Spaniards_. Mean while upon Design (a Plot none of the wisest) the Natives of _Hispaniola_ had neither Till’d or Sow’d the Ground, or us’d Agriculture the year before, contriving by want of Provisions (not considering themselves) to starve out the _Spaniards_; but the mischief fell upon the Contrivers: for so great a Famine hapned, that spreading over the whole Countrey, in a few Moneths fifty thousand were starv’d to death; but the _Spaniards_ made a saving, though hard shift with their own store, then, though too late, the Islanders repented of their folly, for they saw the _Spaniards_ making an advantage of their misery, not onely built more Houses in their City _Isabella_, but prepar’d their Weather-beaten Vessels, with which Sailing to the Gold Mountains of _Cipangi_ on the Hill, whence sprung several Fountains, they rais’d the Castle of the _Conception_. Great benefit they reap’d by this Fort, to which they carry’d daily abundance of Amber, Brimstone, mix’d Ore of Silver and Gold, and _Brazile_-wood, besides great store of Gold: and they might have gotten ten times more, had they not been so much inclin’d to slothfulness, and minding other vain pleasures: yet notwithstanding all, the Fleet carry’d that year above one thousand two hundred pound weight of Gold to _Spain_.

[Sidenote: _Spaniards_ tyrannise there.]

In the mean while the Natives complain’d to _Columbus_ of the _Spanish_ Soldiers, which under pretence to seek for Gold, committed many insufferable Outrages; therefore they desir’d that they might be retain’d in their Forts, and not straggle so much abroad, and they would willingly bring them every three Moneths a certain weight of Cotton, Amber, _Brazile_-wood, and Gold, more than equivalent to what they snatch’d; but _Columbus_ (whose Soldiers, notwithstanding his severity, and using Martial Law upon some of them for their Crimes, and proud with their success) yet prevail’d at last, that they consented thereto; but the Inhabitants never perform’d their promise, who being almost famish’d, had much to do to preserve themselves alive, spending their time in picking Sallads.

[Sidenote: Their Conquest.]

Whilst the Business remain’d in this ill posture, or rather confusion, _Cibanus_, Brother to the imprison’d _Caunaboa_, rais’d an Army of five thousand Men: the _Spaniards_, divided into five Companies, march’d to meet him; and their Enemies being naked, and having no other Arms than Bowes, Arrows, and Clubs, after some little resistance, were soon dissipated and put to flight, but overtaken by the _Spanish_ Horse, many of them were taken Prisoners, and others forc’d to skulk and hide themselves on the tops of Mountains.

[Sidenote: Horible Tempest.]

[Sidenote: A remarkable passage concerning _Bartholomew Columbus_.]

[Sidenote: Brave reception of a King in _Hispaniola_.]

Shortly after this Battel hapned a Huricane, mix’d with Thunder-claps, renting great pieces from the Rocks, and the Wind blowing out of the East, threw down Houses and Trees, some of which were carry’d a vast heighth into the Air; three Ships that rode in the Harbor, broke their new Cables, and split against the Rocks. The _Spaniards_ expected nought else, but that with this excessive Tempest the Day of Judgment was at hand. And on the other side, the Islanders ascribed this raging of Heavens to the _Spaniards_ wickedness. This Storm past, and the Air setled, _Columbus_ gave order for the building of two new Ships there, with which in _March_, _Anno 1495._ he return’d to _Spain_; where in _Medina del Campo_ he gave an account at the Court about the discover’d Countreys; where also Sentence was pass’d on several _Spaniards_, and chiefly concerning the _Benedictine_ Monk _Boilus_, who out of meer malice pass’d by him at Mass with the Host, while he gave it to others, without any distinction. Then he gave a further account, that his Brother _Bartholomew_ had found, sixty Leagues beyond _Isabella_, several deep Pits, the uppermost Ground of which Sifted, produced abundance of Gold. Moreover, that he had built the Castle _Aurea_ there in three Moneths time with little trouble: but because Provisions grew scarce there, he found himself necessitated to remove, but left ten Men in the Garrison, and had sent three hundred of the Islanders with their Governors to _Spain_. He also built the Castle _Dominico_, on the South-side of _Hispaniola_; from whence he had travell’d into the Countrey to the River _Naiba_: where, upon this Shore the King _Beuchio Anacauchoa_ Encamp’d himself against the _Naibans_, to bring them, besides several other People, under his subjection. That _Bartholomew_ demanded Tribute of _Anacauchoa_, which he immediately promis’d to pay, and disbanded his Forces, conducting _Bartholomew_ above thirty Leagues on his Way, along a Path on both sides sown with Hemp, and planted with Cotton-Trees, to his Palace _Xaraqua_, in the West of _Hispaniola_, where he was received in great state: Thirty of the Kings Wives walk’d before, carrying in their Hands Boughs of Palm-trees, and both Sung and Danc’d very strangely; behind these came a considerable number of naked Virgins, very handsom; at last _Bartholomew_ entring the Palace with the King, found a Table furnish’d with all manner of Dainties, and a very courteous Entertainment. The next day walking forth to a large Plain, and looking about he saw two Parties that deeply engag’d in Fight behind a Hill, with great slaughter on both sides, and had not he desir’d that they might be parted, there had been much more Blood shed. After he had been several days friendly entertain’d, he return’d to the Forts _Isabella_, _Sperancia_, _Catharina_, _St. Jago_, _Turrita_, _Conception_, and _Dominico_; where he found above three hundred _Spaniards_ starv’d of hunger, besides many that were sick.

At that time _Guarionexius_ having been oppress’d by the _Spaniards_, and a long time watching for an opportunity, now thinking he had found it, rais’d an Army of fifteen thousand Men, with which he was resolv’d to try his fortune against _Columbus_; who privately receiving intelligence thereof, fell upon him so on a sudden and unexpectedly, that he spoil’d his Design, and took all his Commanders Prisoners: But to oblige the Inhabitants, who begg’d for their King, _Columbus_ set him at liberty, advising him to be careful of raising a War against him any more. But he not being able to endure the oppressions of _Roldanus Ximenez_, a _Spanish_ Commander, fled to the wild _Ciquano_’s, descended from the Canibals, and living on steep Mountains: Of these he desir’d aid against the _Spaniards_, and obtain’d not onely their Promise, but some Men; with which he robb’d and pillag’d the Countrey round about, and what _Spaniards_ he met with he kill’d, and with his Men did eat, as if a Venison Feast. Mean while _Ximenez_ made himself Leader of seventy Rebels, which like raging blood-hounds fell upon the Natives after a terrible manner.

[Sidenote: _Columbus_ Sails the third time to _Hispaniola_.]

[Sidenote: Description of the City _Angra_.]

Whilst all things were thus in disorder at _Hispaniola_, the Admiral _Christopher Columbus_ set Sail a third time with eight Ships from the Haven _Barrameda_, in the Year 1498. To shun the _French_ Pyrates, which watched for the _Indian_ Treasures, he directed his Course to _Madera_, a fruitful Island of Corn, Wine, Sugar, Wax, and Cattel, desolate till _Anno 1420._ Here coming to an Anchor, he sent six Ships away to _Hispaniola_, which himself afterwards followed with the remaining two, steering by the _Flemish_ Islands, or _Acores_, first so call’d from the _Flemings_, the first Planters: Here he dropt Anchor before the City _Angra_ on the Isle _Tercera_, which is sixteen Leagues in circumference, and very Mountainous; the tops whereof are like Spires, and abound with Grapes: the Plain Countrey produces great store of Corn, but it will not keep above twelve Moneths. The Ground is oftentimes terribly shaken by Earthquakes, and between several sulphurous Places, both Flames and Smoak ascend up to the Sky. Near the City _Angra_ is a Fountain which turns Wood into Stone. The Winds in this Place blow so fierce and strong, that they not onely beat down Houses, but wear out Iron, and all manner of Stone-work. In _Angra_ the chief Commander of all the _Flemish_ Isles hath his Residence. The City, surrounded by steep Rocks, lies towards the Sea like a Crescent, or Half-Moon; for at both ends thereof the Mountains extend with deep Points into the Ocean. The uppermost part towards the West stands likewise fortifi’d by a high Rock, as also by another on the East: on both are continual Watches kept; whereof those on the first can discover Ships fifteen Leagues off at Sea, coming either from the _East_ or _West-Indies_; and on the other, all those that come from _Europe_: When they see above fifteen Sail, they put out the Kings great Flag upon the top of all the Rock.

This City of _Angra_ is divided into several Streets: the Governor and Archbishop live each in a stately Palace; five handsom Churches are no small ornament to it; the Sea before it abounds with Fish, but are not to be taken in _December_, by reason of the turbulent Waves.

_Christopher Columbus_ having refresh’d at _Angra_, Sail’d along the _African_ Coast between the _Hesperides_: under the Equinoctial he was so miserably tormented by the Heat, that his Vessels seem’d to burn, the Hoops sprung from the Casks, so that the Water run about the Hold; and they could expect nothing but death from the insufferable Heat, and want of Water: eight days they had endur’d this hardship, when they met with a fresh Gale out of the South-East, so that they made great Way towards the West. On the last of _July_ he discover’d three high Mountains; and approaching near the Shore, he smelt as in a Posie, all the sweet breathings of fragrant Flowers commix’d, and at last saw a convenient Haven; where going ashore he found cultivated Grounds, and steps of Beasts, but not a Man appear’d: the next day they spy’d a Boat with twenty young Men come rowing from the Shore into the Ocean. The Admiral hal’d them in vain to come aboard, for they made the greater hast ashore, still looking about continually with great admiration on the Ships: whereupon he commanded them to beat their Drums, and sound their Trumpets, that they might by that means entice them aboard; but they rather taking it as a sign of War, made themselves ready for resistance: mean while the _Spaniards_ overtook the _Indian_ Boat, into which they threw a Hat, and other trifles; the Islanders amaz’d thereat, made signs to them to row ashore; but soon after they fled.

[Sidenote: Abundance of Pearl.]

_Columbus_ proceeding on his Journey came to _Paria_, where he found a Fishers Pink loaden with Oysters; which opening and taking out the Meat, were found full of Pearls, which because of their abundance were not regarded there; for a broken Dish and a rusty Knife, the _Spaniards_ had four long Strings of Pearl.

[Sidenote: _Columbus_ is in great danger.]

From thence anchoring in the River of _Cumana_, several naked Men came aboard, adorn’d with Golden Armlets, and Strings of Pearl, These inform’d him, that they gather’d their Gold from the Mountains and Rivers, and caught their Pearl-oysters in the adjacent Seas. Some of the _Spaniards_ were nobly entertain’d by the King and his Son, who leading them into their Palace, placed them on Benches of Ebony-wood, curiously wrought, and on a sudden several Servants came in with variety of Dainties, and well-tasted Wine. But because Provisions grew scarce amongst the Sea-men, and their Meat tainted, _Columbus_ thought it convenient to leave the Pearl-trade till some better opportunity. Then setting forward, the farther he went, the shallower he found the Sea, insomuch that his Ship scarce had Water enough to swim. This inconvenience was followed by a second; for the Sea being full of Weeds and Grass, scarce suffer’d any Passage. A River thirty Yards deep, and twenty Leagues broad, came rushing out betwixt two Shores into this Sea with such force, that the Waves went high like Mountains, which made _Columbus_ judge himself in the greatest danger imaginable, and withall Tack about; so that he came on the eight and twentieth of _August Anno 1498._ to an Anchor before _Hispaniola_, where all things were still in a sad confusion, as we before related.

[Sidenote: _Roldanus Ximenes_ opposes _Columbus_.]

[Sidenote: Strange _Indians_.]

_Roldanus Ximenes_ refus’d to follow _Christopher Columbus_’s, order and writ Letters to the King of _Spain_, in which he exceedingly aspersed both the Admiral _Columbus_ and his Brother; who were not backward in giving an account quite contrary by their Letters, of the horrid Villanies perpetrated by this _Ximenes_, and desir’d aid, that so great an Offender might receive condign punishment. Mean while the _Ciquano_’s came marching down with six thousand Men, which _Bartholomew_ went to meet with eighty Foot and some few Horse: The _Indians_ which he was to encounter with, rather seeming like Furies than Men, for all of them were daub’d over with black smuts on their bare Skins from Head to Foot, and their hard Hair pleited in terrible, not in Lovelocks, hung playing, or dangling over their Shoulders. When the _Spaniards_ in their March drawing up to a River where it was best fordable, had no sooner left the Bank, and taken the Water, endeavoring to wade over, but the Salvages rush’d forth out of the Woods, and let flye a showre of Arrows, that had they not been provided with Shields and Targets, to keep off such a deadly Storm, so thick they flew, and so well aim’d, most of them had perish’d there: but having recover’d the opposite Bank, the Enemy play’d all hid, and in a thought shelter’d themselves under the protection of the Woods; where the Conqueror pursuing, found the Service very difficult and dangerous, for their Armes, especially their Shields, stopping and intangling them as in a Net, among the shrubby and twining Branches; which they passing, rigled themselves, and made their way, like questing Spaniels following their Game, and still gawling them with their Arrows: whereupon they left their vain pursuit, marching another way to intercept _Mayobanexius_, who with eight thousand _Ciquano_’s were then coming down against them; which prov’d a harder task than was expected: for e’re he could reduce him and his stubborn Party, he spent three Moneths in the Service.

SECT. III.

[Sidenote: Hath very bad success in his fourth Expedition.]

[Sidenote: Fights with _Poresius_.]

[Sidenote: Dies.]

But the great and worthy Service of these two excellent Brothers deserving rather Statues and Trophies of everlasting Honor, Monuments never to be demolish’d, in their due praise, who had found out after so many baffled Ages, a new World, richer, and not much less than the old, by the aspersing calumniations of one malicious Person, lost his whole Interest and Credit in the _Spanish_ Court, quite out of favour with his Prince, who by his insinuations had hinted so much the matter of Gain among the Courtiers, that every one studied no less than to get a Commission, and so going a Commander to the _Indies_, make up his Mouth, and become suddenly rich. First _Francisco Bombadilla_ prevailing, was sent with full Commission to succeed _Columbus_ in _Hispaniola_; where no sooner Landing, but he exercis’d the extremity of his Authority, and seizing the Admiral and his Brother, fetter’d their Hands and Feet, and put them aboard on two several Ships for _Spain_: where no sooner arriv’d, but the King, not altogether forgetting former Services, commanded them to be unmanacled, and waited on, not as Prisoners, with a civil Retinue to his Court; where they were well entertain’d three years. But they being active Persons, weary of so long repose, got a second Grant to make farther discoveries, and set forth the ninth of _May, Anno 1504._ with four Sail well appointed from _Cadiz_, and had a fair Passage from thence to _Hispaniola_, where begun the Storm, for _Bombadilla_, who had by the Kings Commission so evil treated _Columbus_ and his Brother, as aforemention’d, would not suffer him, though reconciled to the King, so much as to Land, and there refresh themselves and their Men; so he was forc’d to steer on to the Islands _Guamixa_ and _Veragua_, where a Huricane, or sudden stress of Weather sunk two of his Vessels; the other two standing off to Sea escap’d bilging, but so shatter’d and leaky, having also shipp’d abundance of Water, they were resolv’d to put in at _Jamaica_; where weary with the long Voyage, and hatter’d with the Tempest, many of his Sea-men, spent with sickness, after their Landing, died. To these his sufferings from Wind and Weather, and his Enemies abroad, a greater and intestine mischief hapned: _Francisco Poresio_, one of his chief Commanders, absolutely rebell’d, and deserting him, with another Party of his Sea-men went into _Hispaniola_: which the Islanders observing, resolv’d to famish him, keeping from him both Water and all other Provisions; which had not _Columbus_ stav’d off by a handsom Invention, they had compleated their Design, which was this: He told them that he was the offspring of the Moon, and if they refus’d to supply his want, the Moon, in vindication of her Son, would famish them, by spoiling what e’re they had planted or sow’d; and that this would prove true they should know by a sign, that on such a Night, she rising in her full glory, should first look red, and afterwards by degrees lose a great part of her light; which indeed so hapned, being Ecclips’d, as he could well prognosticate; and after that, they being ignorant of the cause, suppli’d him with all Necessaries. But _Poresio_, not able to endure the Sea with his small Boats, resolv’d to surprize one of the Ships that lay before _Jamaica_; but _Columbus_ so much prevented him, that meeting him in his return, after a hot dispute made him his Prisoner. But thus ended not his misfortunes; for the Vessels which he fought in soon after sunk, and no ship to be found in _Jamaica_ to transport him thence. Lastly, he agreed with some _Indian_ Fishermen, to carry _Didaco Mendoza_ to _St. Dominica_, that there he might hire two Vessels to carry him back to _Spain_: which Design taking effect, he arrived there in safety: where after he had refresh’d himself at the _Spanish_ Court, after his so long and unfortunate a Voyage he fell sick, and died on the eighth of _May_ 1506.