[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, April 30, 1492.

  [Footnote 10:  This crediting the unknown ruler with an anxiety for the
  welfare of the Spanish sovereigns is really a delicious piece of
  diplomatic affectation.]

  Columbus goes to Palos.