He assured him that his concerns in Hispaniola were attended to faithfully in his absence; he asked him to write to the governor in reply, as he wished to return at once.
This was but scant comfort for men who had been eight months waiting to be relieved.

But Escobar was master of the position.

Columbus wrote a reply at once to Ovando, pointed out that the difficulties of his situation had been increased by the rebellion of the brothers Porras.
He, however, expressed his reliance on his promise, and said he would remain patiently on his ships until relief came.

Escobar took the letter, returned to his vessel, and she made sail at once, leaving the starving Spaniards in dismay, to the same fate which hung over them before.
Columbus tried to reassure them.

He professed himself satisfied with the communications from Ovando, and told them that vessels large enough for them would soon arrive.