He went first to distinguished noblemen, in the South of Spain, who were of liberal and adventurous disposition.

One was the Duke of Medina Celi, and one the Duke of Medina Sidonia.

Each of these grandees entertained him at their courts, and heard his proposals.
The Duke of Medina Celi was so much interested in them, that at one time he proposed to give Columbus the direction of four vessels which he had in the harbor of Cadiz.

But, of a sudden, he changed his mind.

The enterprise was so vast, he said, that it should be under the direction of the crown.