On December 11, 1526, Charles V commissioned Pánfilo de Narváez to explore, conquer and settle a portion of North America called "La Florida", a territory vaguely described as stretching along the Gulf coast from Mexico to Florida. Cabeza de Vaca was named treasurer by royal appointment, a position that put him second in command and made him chiefly responsible to look after the emperor's interests during the expedition. He was promised an annual salary of 130.000 "maravedies", payable upon his return. Their fleet of five vessels set sail from Spain on June 17, 1527, carrying 600 soldiers and colonists, including a few married women and African slaves.