56 
at this time in his cabin, engaged in his morning 
devotions. When he appeared on deck, the chief- 
tain hastened to meet him with an animated coun= 
- tenance. ‘¢ My friend,” said he, ‘ I have determined 
to leave my country and to accompany thee.—I 
have heard -from these Indians who are with thee, 
of the irresistable power of thy sovereigns, and of 
the many nations thou hast subdued in their name. 
Whoever refuses obedience to thee is sure to sufter.’ 
Thou hast destroyed the canoes and dwellings of the 
Carribs, slaying their warriors, and carrying into 
captivity their wives and children—all the islands 
are in dread of thee; for who can withstand thee, 
now that thou knowest the secrets of the land, and 
the weakness of the people.. Rather, therefore, 
than thou shouldest take away my dominions, I will 
embark all my household in thy ships, and will go 
to do homage to thy king and queen, and to behold 
their country, of which thy Indians relate such won- 
ders !—When this speech was explained to Colum- 
bus, and he beheld the wife, the sons and daughters 
of the cacique and thought upon the snares to which 
their ignorance and simplicity would be exposed, he - 
was touched with compassion, ani determined not 
to take them from their native land. He replied to 
the cacique, therefore, that he received him under his 
protection as a vassal of his sovereigns, but having 
many lands yet to visit before he returned to his — 
country, he wouldat some future time fulfil his desire. 
Then taking leave with many expressions of amity, 
the cacique with his wife and daughter, and all his 
x 
