so long. But the actions of some of them make them so hated by
the natives that the latter do not wish even to see their pictures.

_A remarkable thing._ For proof of this assertion, and in order
to induce those in authority to remedy this condition of affairs,
I will relate here a strange but well authenticated occurrence in
these islands, and a thing thoroughly well known in them all. In this
particular island one of the chief inhabitants died a few days after
his baptism. At his death he was very contrite for the sins that he
had committed against God before and after his baptism. Afterward he
appeared, by divine permission, to many persons of that island, whom
he persuaded by forcible reasoning to receive baptism immediately,
declaring to them, as one who had experienced it, the reward of
celestial bliss, which, without any doubt, would be granted through
baptism, and by living thereafter in conformity to the commandments
of Christ. For this purpose he declared and asserted to them that,
as soon as he had died, angels had carried him to glory, where only
delight and happiness reigned, which arose solely from the sight of
God. No one entered, or could enter that place, unless he were baptized
according to the preaching of the Castilians. Of these latter, and of
others like them, there was an infinite number there. Therefore, if
they wished to share in the enjoyment of those blessings and delights,
they must be baptized first, and afterward observe the commandments
preached by the fathers among the Castilians. Thereupon he vanished
instantly, and they began to discuss what they had heard. On account
of it, some were baptized immediately, but others delayed, saying that
because there were Castilian soldiers in glory, they did not care to
go there, for they did not wish their company. All this injury can
arise from one impious man, who presents one bad example. Such a man,
wheresoever he might be, and especially in those islands, should be
reprimanded and punished severely by good people.

When first discovered, these islands were reported as unhealthful,
but later experience has shown the contrary. The land is exceedingly
fertile, producing rice and grain in abundance, and goats, fowls,
deer, buffaloes, and cows, with many swine, whose flesh is as good
and savory as is the mutton of Espana. There are many civet-cats. An
infinite number of fruits are found, all very good and well flavored;
and honey and fish in abunda