CHAP. I l l ]
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS.
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gatives for that which men were daily offering to perform gratui tously ? Such, from his after conduct, appears to have been the jealous and selfish policy which actuated Ferdinand in forbearing to rein state Columbus in those dignities and privileges so solemnly granted to him by treaty, and which it was acknowledged he had never forfeited by misconduct. This deprivation, however, was declared to be but temporary ; and plausible reasons were given for the delay in his reappoint ment. It was observed that the elements of those violent factions, recently in arms against him, yet existed in the island ; his imme diate return might produce fresh exasperation ; his personal safety might be endangered, and the island again thrown into confusion. Though Bobadilla, therefore, was to be immediately dismissed from command, it was deemed advisable to send out some officer of talent and discretion to supersede him, who might dispassion ately investigate the recent disorders, remedy the abuses which had arisen, and expel all dissolute and factious persons from the colony. He should hold the government for two years, by which time it was trusted that all angry passions would be allayed, and turbulent individuals removed : Columbus might then resume the command with comfort to himself and advantage to the crown. With these reasons, and the promise which accompanied them, Columbus was obliged to content himself. There can be no doubt that they were sincere on the part of Isabella, and that it was her intention to reinstate him in the full enjoyment of his rights and dignities, after his apparently necessary suspension. Ferdi nand, however, by his subsequent conduct, has forfeited all claim to any favorable opinion of the kind. The person chosen to supersede Bobadilla was Don Nicholas
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