TO:     Aurelia Diaz, daughter of the honorable Alonzo Diaz,

at The Court of Emperor, Charles V, Kingdom of Spain

13 February, Anno Domini 1522

My dearest Aurelia,

It is many years since we played together in the gardens of the Archduke: I doubt if you would remember me, I the second son of a provincial landowner and you the most beautiful daughter of a wealthy courtier. I, however, have always remembered you with affection and admiration, whenever I smell the sweet fragrance of oranges. Now, my lovely Aurelia, I am a match for you in marriage. I have founded a town on the great expedition of Cortez that will be immortalized by our historians. I have become a wealthy man. I send you, as a token of my esteem and regard, a casket of precious Mexican jewels. I hope that you will agree to marry me when I return to Spain.

Forever yours,

  Gonzalo de Sandoval