Read each of the following excerpts from Journal of the First Voyage to America. Write what each excerpt reveals about Christopher Columbus.
1. I went ashore, and found no habitation save a single house, and that without an occupant; we had no doubt that the people had fled in terror at our approach, as the house was completely furnished. I suffered nothing to be touched, and went with my captains and some of the crew to view the country.
A: This excerpt reveals that Christopher Columbus is respectful of other people's property.
2. This island even exceeds the others in beauty and fertility. Groves of lofty and flourishing trees are abundant, as also large lakes, surrounded and overhung by the foliage, in a most enchanting manner...The melody of birds was so exquisite that one was never willing to part from the spot, and the flocks of parrots obscured the heavens.
A: This excerpt reveals that Christopher Columbus loves and appreciates nature. It also shows that his senses are very keen; his eyes and ears capture every sight and sound.
3. I discovered also the aloe tree, and am determined to take on board the ship tomorrow, ten quintals of it, as I am told it is valuable.
A: This excerpt reveals that Christopher Columbus is resourceful and thinks ahead.
4. Presently we saw several of the natives advancing towards our party, and one of them came up to us, to whom we gave some hawk's bells and glass beads, with which he was delighted. We asked him in return, for water, and after I had gone on board the ship, the natives came down to the short with their calabashes full, and showed great pleasure in presenting us with it. I ordered more glass beads to be given, and they promised to return the next day.
A: This excerpt shows that Christopher Columbus is reasonable and is able to negotiate fairly.
4. ...I shall depart immediately, if the weather serve, and the sail round the island, till I succeed in meeting with the king, in order to see if I can acquire any of the gold, which I hear he possesses.
A: This excerpt shows that Christopher Columbus is very determined.