of Columbus and his companions.

"I have lately had some conversation with Las Casas, the
Bishop of Chiapa. He has convinced me that the behavior of
our people to the Indians is inexcusable in the sight of
God, however it may be overlooked by men in high authority.
The Bishop has proved to me that all who have taken part in
the abuse of these harmless people, have been visited in
this life with the manifest displeasure of heaven; and God
grant that they may not be punished in the life to come
according to the measure of their offense.

"I hope, my dearest husband that no considerations of
worldly advantage will make you neglectful of the precepts
of humanity and of the duties of religion. Be persuaded to
return to me at once; for you can gain nothing in Florida
which can repay me for the sorrow and anxiety I feel in your
absence. Nor for all the riches of the country would I have
you commit one act the remembrance of which would be painful
to you hereafter. If you have gained nothing I shall be
better satisfied, because there may be the less cause for
repentance. Whatever may have been your want of success or
your losses, I implore you to come to me without delay; for
any reverse of fortune is far better than the suspense and
misery I now endure."

This letter must have caused De Soto great perplexity. But for reasons
which we have above given he could not make up his mind to abandon the
enterprise, and return to Cuba an unsuccessful and impoverished man.

De Soto now ordered the two vessels under Diego Maldonado to explore
the coast to the westward, carefully examining every river and bay. It
would seem also probable that at the same time he fitted out an
expedition of fifty foot soldiers, to march along the coast on a tour
of discovery. Maldonado, after a sail of about two hundred miles,
entered the beautiful bay of Pensacola, then called Archusi. It was an
admirable harbor, and with shores so steep and bold that ships could
ride in safety almost within cable length of the land. No Spaniards
had previously visited that region, consequently the natives were
friendly. They came freely on board, bringing fruits and vegetables,
and inviting the strangers to the hospitality of their homes.

Maldonado was allowed without molestation to explore the bay in all
directions, taking careful soundings. The vessels r