The finding of the New World was the irrevocable object of his life.

He went to Spain, and landed at the town of Palos, in Andalusia.

He went by chance to a convent of Franciscans, knocked at the door and asked for a little bread and water.

The prior gratefully received the stranger, entertained him, and learned from him the story of his life.

He encouraged him in his hopes, and furnished him with an admission to the Court of Spain, then at Cordova.