He said he held the fortress for the king by the command of the Admiral, and would not deliver it until he should arrive.

Bobadilla, however, "assailed the portal;" that is to say, he broke open the gate.

No one offered any opposition, and the commander and his first-lieutenant were taken prisoners.

He went farther, taking up his residence in Columbus's house, and seizing his papers.

So soon as Columbus received account of Bobadilla's arrival, he wrote to him in careful terms, welcoming him to the island.