Fontanares
That which Columbus asked, a ship and the presence of my king to
witness the experiment.

Philip II.
You shall have all--the king, the realm of Spain--the whole world.
They tell me that you love a maid of Barcelona. I am about to cross
the Pyrenees, to visit my possessions, Roussillon and Perpignan; you
shall receive your vessel at Barcelona.

Fontanares
In granting me this vessel, sire, you have done me justice; in giving
it to me at Barcelona, you have bestowed a favor which, from a
subject, makes me your slave.

Philip II.
Yet be cautious; to lose a vessel of the state will be to risk your
life, for so the law provides.

Fontanares
I know it, and accept the risk.

Philip II.
Well said, brave man! If you succeed in constructing this sailless,
oarless vessel that shall face the wind as swiftly as if the wind were
in its favor, I will create you--what is your name?

Fontanares
Alfonso Fontanares.