behalf of the French Protestants, on the continent of Europe, he
heard and read so much of the wondrous lands across the Atlantic
Ocean that he resolved that England should share in the glory and
profit of future discoveries.


1578-83.

9. When Raleigh went back to England he communicated his desires
and feelings to his half-brother, Sir Humphrey Gilbert, who had
made reputation as a commander of ships. In the year 1578, the
queen granted leave to these two men to sail in search of lands
yet undiscovered by civilized nations. In 1583 they sent out a
large vessel called the Raleigh, [It is said that the vessel was
commanded by Sir Walter Raleigh in person, and this was the only
attempt ever made by him to visit the shores of North America. ]
which was compelled to return in a few days, on account of
disease among the crew.

10. English sailors, at that time, were easily discouraged in
efforts to navigate the Atlantic Ocean. They had never crossed
it, and were full of superstition concerning that unknown and
mysterious sea.

11. Again, in 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert, with three ships,
ventured out upon the waste of waters that lay to the west of
their island homes. He discovered the island of Newfoundland,
and thence sailed southward. Off the coast of Maine he was
overtaken by a storm which sunk one of his ships. This disaster
induced him to turn his prows for the voyage homeward; but the