Christopher Columbus

Gold is a treasure, and he who possesses it does all he wishes to in this world, and succeeds in helping souls into paradise.

I have come to believe that this is a mighty continent which was hitherto unknown.

My desire was not to pass any island without taking possession, so that, one having been taken, the same may be said of all.

No one should fear to undertake any task in the name of our Saviour, if it is just and if the intention is purely for His holy service.

These people are very unskilled in arms... with 50 men they could all be subjected and made to do all that one wished.

I am not solicitous to examine particularly everything here, which indeed could not be done in fifty years, because my desire is to make all possible discoveries, and return to your Highnesses, if it please our Lord, in April.

Following the light of the sun, we left the Old World.

By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions, one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination.

I saw a boy of the crew purchasing javelins of them with bits of platters and broken glass.

The air soft as that of Seville in April, and so fragrant that it was delicious to breathe it.

But in truth, should I meet with gold or spices in great quantity, I shall remain till I collect as much as possible, and for this purpose I am proceeding solely in quest of them.