This speech was received with tumultuous cheers. Mass was then celebrated by the ecclesiastics who accompanied the fleet, and with many religious ceremonies the squadron was placed under the protection of St. Peter. The anchors were raised, the sails were spread, and a favoring breeze pressed them rapidly over the waves toward the setting sun. It was the 18th of February, 1519. CHAPTER III. THE VOYAGE TO MEXICO. The voyage.--They reach the island of Cozumel.--Treasures seized.--The island and its inhabitants.--Exploring parties to the main land.-- Missionary labors.--The first mass.--Miraculous conversions.--Return of the exploring party.--Arrival of Aguilar.--History of Aguilar's life at Yucatan.--Escape and capture.--Guerrero takes to savage life.--Escape.--Guerrero remains with the savages.--Squadron again sails.--They enter the Tabasco.--They ascend the river.--Landing postponed.--Encampment.--Preparation for the conflict.--The reception. --The battle.--The charge.--Victory.--March to Tabasco.--Possession taken of the town.--Gathering of the natives.--The two armies meet.--The conflict.--The cavalry charge.--Terror of the natives.--The fight.--Estimates of the number killed.--The declaration.--The natives submissive.--The new religion.--St. Mary of Victory.--Motives which actuated the adventurers.--Christian instruction.--Principle and practice.--The altar.--Devotions.--Baptism.--The presents.--Marina. --Indulgences.--Character of Marina.--Her career.--Her devotion to Cortez.--Departure from Tabasco.--Blessings left behind.--They coast along the shore.--Arrival at San Juan de Ulua. Light and variable winds retarded the progress of the squadron as it was headed in a southwesterly direction toward the shores of Yucatan. A terrible tempest succeeded, and the ships were driven wildly before the storm. But after the lapse of about a week, as the storm abated, they were cheered by the sight of land. The mountains of the island of Cozumel rose towering before them. This large island is separated from the main land of Yucatan by a channel of from twelve to thirty miles in width.