Tells how a great land was sighted, and other islands.
From this Island of San Marcos we went on a S.W. course, with men
at the mast-head; and at 10 in the forenoon, at a distance of 12
leagues to the S.E., a land of many mountains and plains was sighted,
the end of which could not be seen throughout the day. The Captain
gave it the name of "Margaritana."
About 20 leagues to the west, an island was seen that looked so
beautiful that it was determined to go to it. About a third of the
way we saw another island, 3 leagues off. It is flat, with a hill
that looks like a rock in the distance. Two canoes under sail came
from it, from which we knew that it was inhabited. On account of its
thick woods and pleasant appearance, the name of "Verjel" was given
to it. There was little wind, and, on account of the necessary caution
in navigating among unknown islands, we hove to during the night.
The other day, being the 27th, we saw to the N. of where we were a
large island running N.E. and S.W., and the peaks of its numerous
mountains gave the Captain a strong desire to go and see it; but he
gave it up, owing to other things that occurred. Its latitude is 13°,
and it was named "Las Lagrimas da San Pedro."
To the N.W. another island was seen, with a circumference of 60
leagues. It has two high and sloping hills, one at each end. The
rest is flat and of very pleasant appearance, alike from its shape
and its numerous trees. Its latitude is less than 14°. It was named
"Portales de Belen."