It was early in March, but the nights were not cold.
The fleet hugged the coast, anchoring at night, until the northern shores stood out clear and well defined as Spain stretched down towards Africa.

Then they crossed and cruised along until they arrived at Carthagena.

Short as was the time which had elapsed since the foundation of that city, its aspect was already imposing and extensive.

It lay at the head of a gulf facing south, about a mile in depth and nearly double that width.

Across the mouth of this bay was an island, with but a narrow passage on each side, protecting it from the southern winds, and forming with it a magnificent harbour.
On a bold hill at the head of the harbour stood the town.