It certainly seems as if every document now existing, which bears upon the history, had been collated by him.

The reader will see that I have made full use of this treasure-house.
The Congress of Americanistas, which meets every year, brings forward many curious studies on the history of the continent, but it can scarcely be said to have done much to advance our knowledge of the personal life of Columbus.
The determination of the people of the United States to celebrate fitly the great discovery which has advanced civilization and changed the face of the world, makes it certain that a new interest has arisen in the life of the great man to whom, in the providence of God, that discovery was due.

The author and publishers of this book offer it as their contribution in the great celebration, with the hope that it may be of use, especially in the direction of the studies of the young.
EDWARD E.HALE.
ROXBURY, MASS., June 1st, 1891.
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER 1.

EARLY LIFE OF COLUMBUS.
His Birth and Birth-place--His Early Education--His experience at Sea-His Marriage and Residence in Lisbon-- His Plans for the Discovery of a Westward Passage to the Indies CHAPTER II.

HIS PLANS FOR DISCOVERY.
Columbus Leaves Lisbon, and Visits Genoa--Visits Great Spanish Dukes--For Six Years is at the Court of Ferdinand and Isabella--The Council of Salamanca--His Petition is at Last Granted--Squadron Made Ready CHAPTER III.