uld bring to light many
islands rich in gold, pearls, precious stones, and
spiceries, together with many other unknown and choice
productions. The same has been affirmed also by persons
versed in learning and skilled in the science of
cosmography. With such views, and a desire that I might
render your majesty a distinguished and memorable service in
this matter, I dispatched four Spaniards, two by one route
and two by another, who, having obtained the necessary
information as to the course they were to take, set out,
accompanied by several of our allies as guides and
companions. I ordered them not to stop until they had
reached the sea, and when they had discovered it, to take
actual and corporal possession in the name of your majesty.

"One of these parties traveled about one hundred and thirty
leagues, through many fine provinces, without encountering
any obstacles, and arrived at the sea, of which they took
possession, and, in token thereof, set up crosses along the
coast. After some days they returned with an account of
their discovery, and informed me very particularly
concerning it. They brought with them several of the natives
from that quarter, together with good specimens of gold from
the mines found in the provinces through which they passed,
which, with other specimens, I now send to your majesty.

"The other party were absent somewhat longer, for they took
a different course, and traveled one hundred and fifty
leagues before they reached the sea, of which they also took
possession, and brought me a full account of the coast, with
some of the natives of the country. I received the strangers
in both parties graciously, and having informed them of the
great power of your majesty, and made them some presents, I
suffered them to depart on their return to their own
country, and they went away much gratified.

"In my former relation, most catholic sire, I informed your
majesty that, at the time when the Indians defeated me, and
first drove us out of the city of Tenochtitlan, all the
provinces subject to that city rebelled against your majesty
and made war upon us; and your majesty will see, by this
relation, how we have reduced to your royal service most of
the provinces that proved rebellious.

"As the city," h