"October 24. The outstanding Expedition Commander led the fleet away from Isabela Island to search southwest for the great island of Cuba, which is to say Cipangu Japan, recorded by Marco Polo! ... The fleet sailed southwest for a day and a night, covering 9 leagues (50 kilometers). Aboard were 88 Kingdom crewmen, as well as 10 captured native guides... The Lord be praised! We have more than 100 blades, over 20 matchlock guns, 10 suits of Iron Armor, and two 3-pounder cannons—enough to conquer a great tribe of a thousand natives!..."
"October 25. In the southwestern waters, the fleet discovered a string of small islands like reefs... The little islands were beautiful, but there was no sign of people, and so no food supplies. The supplies aboard had never been plentiful. The climate here is hot and humid, and the food obtained from the native villages spoiled easily for some reason. Perhaps because the natives lack salt, their food is extremely bland... Sailed 14 leagues (77 kilometers) through the day and night..."
"October 26. Arrived at the small islands and spent the night. This barren string of reefs consists of seven or eight small rocky islands, but with no water sources or villages, they have little value... I named it Arana Island (Arena), meaning 'an island where the waters are shallow.' And this name is likewise a reward for Guard Captain Arana's loyalty!... The native guides aboard say the great island of Cuba lies to the south, only a day and a half away by Canoe... Rich Cipangu Japan is right before our eyes!..."
"October 27. The fleet sailed south-southwest, covering 16 leagues (88 kilometers) day and night. The crew discovered land in the distance, a very, very long coastline... Everyone was extremely excited and wished they could go