best he might, took out his people and went with them to the other
caravel, sending his boat to Guacanagari to inform him of the misfortune.


KINDNESS OF INDIAN CHIEF.

The good Guacanagari was moved to tears by this sad affair. He gave not
only sympathy, however, but assistance. His people went out with their
canoes, and in a few moments cleared the vessel of all the goods in it.
Guacanagari was very careful that nothing should be lost. He himself stood
guard over the things which had been taken out of the ship. Then he sent
comforting messages to the admiral, saying that he would give him what he
had to make up for the loss. He put all the effects under shelter, and
placed guards round them. The wrecker's trade might flourish in Cornwall;
but, like other crimes of civilization, it was unknown in St. Domingo. The
admiral was evidently touched to the heart, as well he might be, by the
kindness of these Indians. He thus expresses himself, "They are a loving,
uncovetous people, so docile in all things, that I assure your highnesses
I believe in all the world there is not a better people, or a better
country; they love their neighbours as themselves, and they have the
sweetest and gentlest way of talking in the world, and always with a
smile."


A COLONY FOUNDED.

The admiral resolved to found a colony in Guacanagari's land, "having
found such good will and such signs of gold." In relating this, the
Spanish historian, Herrera, makes some curious reflections. He looks upon
the loss of the vessel as providential, in order that the true faith might