He wishes, in his quality of admiral, to be made sole judge of all mercantile matters that may be the occasion of dispute in the countries which he is to discover.
Granted by the king and queen, on the condition, however, that this jurisdiction should belong to the office of admiral, as held by Don Enriquez and other admirals.
5.

Christopher Columbus wishes to have the right to contribute the eighth part of the expenses of all ships which traffic with the new countries, and in return to earn the eighth part of the profits.
Granted by the king and queen.
Santa Fe, in the Vega of Granada, April 17, 1492.
This agreement is signed by the Secretary Coloma and written by Almazan.
Then there is a sort of passport or commendatory letter intended for presentation to the Grand Khan, Prester John, or any other oriental potentate at whose territories Columbus might arrive:-- FERDINAND AND ISABELLA TO KING-- The sovereigns have heard that he and his subjects entertain great love for them and for Spain.

They are moreover informed that he and his subjects very much[10] wish to hear news from Spain; and send, therefore, their admiral, Ch.

Columbus, who will tell them that they are in good health and perfect prosperity.
Granada, April 30, 1492.
[Footnote 10: This crediting the unknown ruler with an anxiety for the welfare of the Spanish sovereigns is really a delicious piece of diplomatic affectation.] COLUMBUS GOES TO PALOS.
Armed with these royal commissions, Columbus left the court for Palos; and we may be sure that the knot of friends at the monastery were sufficiently demonstrative in their delight at the scheme on which they had pinned their faith being fairly launched.

There was no delay in furnishing the funds for the expedition.