Here and therewere seen huts covered with great leaves or sheaves of grass, and amongthese they saw figures moving and disappearing, watching their approach,yet always ready to disappear in the recesses of the woods. Soundingcarefully the depth of water with their imperfect tackle, they anchoredoff the main beach, and sent a boat on shore from each vessel, Luis beingin command of one. The natives at first hovered in the distance, butpresently came down to the shore to meet the visitors, some even swimmingoff to the boats in advance. They were of a yellow complexion, with goodfeatures, were naked except for goat-skins or woven palm fibres, or reedspainted in different colors; and were gay and merry, singing and dancingamong themselves. When brought on board the ships, they ate bread andfigs, but refused wine and spices; and they seemed not to know the use ofrings or of swords, when shown to them. Whatever was given to them theydivided with one another. They cultivated fruit and grain on their island,reared goats, and seemed willing to share all with their newly foundfriends. Luis, always thoughtful, and somewhat anxious in temperament,felt many doubts as to the usage which these peaceful islanders wouldreceive from the ships' company, no matter how many bishops and holy menmight be on board.
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