When the day dawned, Columbus saw before him a level and beautiful island, several leagues in extent, of great freshness and verdure, and covered with trees like a continual orchard.  Tho everything appeared in the wild luxuriance of untamed nature, yet the island was evidently populous, for the inhabitants were seen issuing from the woods, and running from all parts to the shore.  They were all perfectly naked, and, from their attitudes and gestures, appeared lost in astonishment at the sight of the ships.  Columbus made signal to cast anchor, and to man the boats.  He entered his own boat richly attired in scarlet, and bearing the royal standard.  Martin Alonzo Pinzon, and Vicente Yanez, the brother, likewise put off in their boats, each bearing the banner of the enterprise, emblazoned with a green cross, having on each side the letters F and Y, surmounted by crowns, the Spanish initials of the Castilian monarchs, Fernando and Ysabel.

As they approached the shores they were delighted by the beauty and grandeur of the forests; the variety of unknown fruits on the trees which overhung the shores; the purity and suavity of the atmosphere, and the crystal transparency of the seas which bathe these islands.  On landing, Columbus threw himself upon his knees, kissed the earth, and returned thanks to God with tears of joy.  His example was followed by his companions, whose breasts, indeed, were full to overflowing.  Columbus, then rising, drew his sword, displayed the royal standard, and took possession, in the names of the Castilian sovereigns, giving the island the name of San Salvador.  He then called upon all present to take the oath of obedience to him, as admiral and viceroy, and representative of the sovereigns.

His followers now burst forth into the most extravagant transports.  They thronged around him, some embracing him, others kissing his hands.  Those who had been most mutinous and turbulent during the voyage were now most devoted and enthusiastic.  Some begged favors of him, as of a man who had already wealth and honors in his gift.  Many abject spirits, who had outraged him by their insolence, now crouched at his feet, begging his forgiveness, and offering, for the future, the blindest obedience to his commands.

    [1] From Irving’s “Life of Columbus.”  By permission of the
    publishers, G.P.  Putnam’s Sons.

II

As described by Columbus himself[1]

As I know that it will afford you pleasure that I have brought my undertaking to a successful result, I have determined to write to you this letter to inform you of everything that has been done and discovered in this voyage of mine....