This scene may be simplified, if desired, and given in the form of two tableaux. Columbus kneeling before the queen and king and Columbus telling his story may be given separately. There need not be as many characters in the scene. See the picture, "Reception of Columbus" (adapted from the picture by Ricardo Balaca) in "America's Story for American Children," by Mara L. Pratt.
It would be easy to give the substance of this entertainment in any schoolroom and without costumes. Even with these limitations the story of Columbus would become more real to the children in this way than it could be made by any description.
A good description of the reception of Columbus in Spain after his first voyage is given in the "Life of Columbus," by Washington Irving.
A description and picture of the banner of the expedition may be found in Lossing's "History of the United States," volume I.
Music that may be used: "Columbus Song," taken from "1492"; the "New Hail Columbia."
THE DISCOVERY OF AMERICA
It was on the morning of Friday, 12th of October, 1492, that Columbus first beheld the New World....
No sooner did he land than he threw himself upon his knees, kissed the earth, and returned thanks to God with tears of joy. His example was followed by the rest, whose hearts indeed overflowed with the same feelings of gratitude.
Columbus then rising drew his sword, displayed the royal standard, and ... took solemn possession in the name of the Castilian sovereigns, giving the island the name of San Salvador. Having complied with the requisite forms and ceremonies, he now called upon all present to take the oath of obedience to him, as admiral and viceroy, representing the persons of the sovereigns.