ABSTRACT
Here the expedition rested, but, although many attempts were made, the Spaniards could not lay hands on any of the Indians; for,though some were seen occasionally at a distance on the river, who came out in their canoes to see the strange fleet, they always remained afar off, owing to the fear which they continued to feel. One chief appeared not to feel so much timidity as the rest, for, after three or four days he came peacefully, accompanied by some Indians, bringing offerings of fish, maize, and other food, and was received by the governor with a show of great friendship. Ursua embraced him, and gave him a few trifling presents, such as glass beads, knives, looking glasses, and other childish toys; in tending that the Indians should, by this treatment, lose their fear, and that the news might pass amongst them from one to another; seeing that the Spaniards had a bad name, owing to the acts of Garcia del Arze. He thus hoped that their confidence would return, and that they would supply in formation which would enable him to obtain some insight into the nature of the country, for he wished to establish peace with all the natives, along the whole course of the river.
