Proem
Holy, Imperial, Catholic Majesty:
Among all the princes we know to have existed in the world, I think that none could be found whom men have endeavored to serve with such great diligence and desire as we see that they serve Your Majesty today. Very clearly one can recognize that this is not without great cause and reason, for men are not so blind that all would follow this path without a purpose. For we see that not only native countrymen obligated by faith and loyalty do so, but even foreigners make an effort to serve you because it is to their advantage. But although the desire and will to serve makes them all alike, there is a great difference, caused not by their own fault, but rather by fortune, or more correctly, through no one's fault, but only by the will and wisdom of God. Thus it happens that one does more distinguished deeds than he expected, and things are so reversed for another that the only thing he can show of his purpose is diligence. And even this diligence is sometimes so hidden that it cannot be noticed.
For myself I can say that, regarding the journey I made to the Spanish Main by order of Your Majesty, in truth I thought that my deeds and service would be as distinguished and manifest as those of my ancestors, and that I would have no need to speak in order to be reckoned among those who administer and deal with Your Majesty's charges with complete faith and great care and are therefore honored.