The Voyages of Pedro Fernandez de Quiros, 1595 to 1606. Volume 1

Chapter I

Clements R. (Clements Robert) Markham translation

How the second voyage to the Isles of Solomon was commenced by the Adelantado Alvaro de Mendaña, in whose company Pedro Fernandez de Quiros went as Pilot and Captain. Recounts the departure from Callao.

The disorders which took place in this expedition were numerous; and in order that this history may be clear, it is necessary to say something of them, as it seems to me that they were the cause of the unfortunate ending of the enterprise.

The stars of the eighth heaven are unequal in dimensions, for some appear to our vision great, and others so small that they are scarcely visible. There are those who say that if one of these should be wanting in heaven there would be equivalent loss on earth. I mean that the most minute circumstance that has ceased to do harm may have its effect on the course of events.

Notes in this chapter

Note 1 · An office corresponding to the President or Governor of a province. Præfectus. “Adelante,” in front; more advanced than others.Note 2 · Here Suarez de Figueroa inserts the following speech, made by the Marquis of Cañete to Mendaña. On one of the many occasions when Alvaro de Note 3 · Equivalent to Colonel. He was an old soldier named Pedro Merino Manrique. The name is given by Suarez de Figueroa.Note 4 · 12° 3′ 45″ S. Callao Castle; 12° 2′ 34″ S. Lima.Note 5 · Many years having passed in silence since the first voyage of Alvaro Mendaña, God was served that in the city of Kings, residence of Viceroy Note 6 · The Master of the Camp3 embarked, and the first thing he did was to interfere with the Boatswain in matters pertaining to his office, using Note 7 · The Adelantado came on board, and, as he said that he would apply a suitable remedy to what had occurred, the Chief Pilot remained. On Frida