I am writing this message in the great Cathedral of Barcelona for you, niño. Newly christened Esteban.

Many years ago, a strange young man named Mendoza came to my father asking for help. He was a European stranded in a foreign land. With him was a young baby, you, only a few years old. My father, captain of a Portuguese merchant vessel, had lost some of his crew in a violent storm and was glad to accept this unexpected help. After many adventures, this Mendoza became our friend. He even saved my life. Mendoza eventually entrusted me with this account of his life and his remarkable voyage with Magellan.

I hope Mendoza will soon come to reclaim you and this book. But, if something happens and he does not, Father Rodriguez will know the truth of how you came to be here.

Farewell Esteban, Criança do Sol.

A. C.