Voyage and death of Gonçalo de Sintra. How João Fernandes was left alone in the land of Africa in order to give intelligence thereof to the Infante. How Diniz Dias was the first to see the land of the Negroes (Guinea). Of the first captives disembarked at Lisbon. Of the voyage of Gonçalo Pacheco and the death of the seven Portuguese. Of the voyage of Lançarote with his fleet of fourteen caravels and of the other twelve caravels which sailed with him; their discoveries and adventures

doi:10.4324/9781315122915-15

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ABSTRACT

Some little while after the return of Lancarote the Infante caused to be equipped a caravel, in which he sent Goncalo de Sintra as captain, recommending him before his departure to go directly to Guinea, and in no event to do anything else. In the year 1445 the Infante sent Antao Goncalves in a caravel. This caravel was sent forth by the Infante Dom Pedro, who at this time was governing the realm in the King's name. Gomes Eannes de Azurara relates that the natives came down to the shore as though wishing to communicate with the men of the caravel; but the sea being rough the boats could not make a landing, and the caravel could not remain at anchor, but was obliged to sail on. The Infante thanked Diniz Dias for his goodwill, and straightway caused a caravel to be armed in order to satisfy his desire.