102
VOYAGES
A N D D I S C O V E R I E S OF
THE VOYAGE OF DIEGO DE NICUESA. C H A P T E R I. NICUESA
SAILS
TO THE W E S T W A R D .
HIS
SHIPWRECK AND
SUBSEQUENT DISASTERS.
W E have now to recount the fortunes experienced by the gallant and generous Diego de Nicuesa, after his parting from Alonzo de Ojeda at Carthagena.
On resuming his voyage, he embarked in
a caravel, that he might be able to coast the land and reconnoitre ; he ordered that the two brigantines, one of wjrich was commanded by his Lieutenant Lope de Olano, should keep near to him, while the large vessels, which drew more water, should stand further out to sea.
The squadron arrived upon the coast of Veragua, in
stormy weather ; and, as Nicuesa could not find any safe harbor, and was apprehensive of rocks and shoals, he stood out to sea at the approach of night, supposing that Lope de Olano would fol足 low him with the brigantines according to his orders.
The night
was boisterous, the caravel was much tossed and driven about, and when the morning dawned, not one of the squadron was in sight. Nicuesa feared some accident had befallen the brigantines ; he stood for the land, and coasted along it in search of them until he came to a large river, into which he entered and came to anchor.
He had not been here long when the stream suddenly