He was especially learned, for that age of the world, being skilled in mathematical and geographical knowledge.

He eagerly acquired from Moors of Fez and Morocco, such scanty information as could be gathered concerning the remote districts of Africa.

The shrewd conjectures of learned men, the confused records of Arabic geographers, the fables of chivalry, were not without their influence upon an enthusiastic mind.

The especial reason which impelled the prince to take the burden of discovery on himself was that neither mariner nor merchant would be likely to adopt an enterprise in which there was no clear hope of profit.

It belonged, therefore, to great men and princes; and amongst such, he knew of no one but himself who was inclined to it.