There were reasons, however, which made this difficult.

Columbus wished to despatch the ships back again as speedily as possible, in order that news of him might help to counteract the evil rumours that he knew Buil and Margarite would be spreading.

He himself was as yet (February 1494) too ill to travel; and during his illness Bartholomew could not easily be spared.
It was therefore decided to send home James, who could most easily be spared, and whose testimony as a member of the governing body during the absence of the Admiral on his voyage to Cuba might be relied upon to counteract the jealous accusations of Margarite and Buil.
Unfortunately there was no golden cargo to send back with him.

As much gold as possible was scraped together, but it was very little.

The usual assortment of samples of various island products was also sent; but still the vessels were practically empty.