own
cool and wary nature must have distrusted this "pauper pilot, promising
rich realms." [9]

[Footnote 9: "Nudo nocchier, promettitor di regni:"--Chiabrea.]

COLUMBUS'S AGREEMENT WITH THE COURT OF SPAIN.

The agreement between Columbus and their Catholic highnesses is to the
following effect:--

The favours which Christopher Columbus has asked from the King and Queen
of Spain in recompense of the discoveries which he has made in the ocean
seas, and as recompense for the voyage which he is about to undertake, are
the following:--

1. He wishes to be made admiral of the seas and countries which he is
about to discover. He desires to hold this dignity during his life, and
that it should descend to his heirs.

This request is granted by the king and queen.

2. Christopher Columbus wishes to be made viceroy of all the continents
and islands.

Granted by the king and queen.

3. He wishes to have a share, amounting to a tenth part, of the profits of
all merchandise, be it pearls, jewels, or any other things, that may be
found, gained, bought, or exported from the countries which he is to
discover.

Granted by the king and queen.

4. He wishes, in his quality of admiral, to be made sole judge of all
mercantile matters that may be the occasion of dispute in the countries
which he is to discover.

Granted by the king and queen, on the condition, however, that this
jurisdiction should belong to the office of admiral, as held by Don
Enriquez and other admirals.

5. Christopher Columbus wishes to have the right to contribute the eighth
part of the expenses of all ships which traffic with the new countries,
and in return to earn the eighth part of the profits.

Granted by the king and queen.

Santa Fe, in the Vega of Granada,
April 17, 1492.

This agreement is signed by the Secretary Coloma and written by Almazan.

Then there is a sort of passport or commendatory letter intended for
presentation to the Grand Khan, Prester John, or any other oriental
potentate at whose territories Columbus might arrive:--

FERDINAND AND ISABELLA TO KING--
The sovereigns have heard that he and his subjects entertain great
love for them and for Spain. They are moreover informed that he and
his subjects very much[10] wish to hear news from Spain; and send,
therefore, their admiral, Ch. Columbus, who will tell them that they
are in good health and perfect prosperity.

Granada,