LI r A 3,. szi J LEWEY AND I OR SAILOR BOYS WANDERINGS LEWEY AND I OR SAILOR BOYS WANDERINGS A MtQLTH. T "ON LAND AND MA" n WM. H. THOMES Author <: :nning the BI.->i kiide," **Or Lan. .1 "A Si .tures," "A \\": .1 , : Gold- ill:. -:id "Dariug Deed*." CHICAGO LAIRD & LEE. PUBLISHERS Copyright* MDCCCLXXXIY, by WM. H. TKOMH Copyright, 1892, by LAI&D <fc (LBWXf ANX I.) To WORSHIPFUL BROTHER CAPTA1X ALBERT A. / SUflllNTBNDKNT Of THB BOSTON AND PROVIOKNCB KAILRUAD, * Ml NITRES IN CALIFORNIA, DURING I HE MEXICAK WAR, IS RP.SPECTFUI.I.Y I KnKMRn, WITH FRATERNAL r.RI : THE AUTHOR, WM. II. THOMES. 914660 OPIB READ S GREAT - Character Novels 25C RETAIL PRICE -- 25c "TURKEY EGO" GRIFFIN A striking romar. in character dili; THE HARKRIDERS Ole rUari rna*terrJ<^. A most fascinatim? romance. bubb1In*OTer with th author s quaint hum. r. Am nig the scenes in a fox hunt graphically described. THE STARBUCKS A charming lore story. Rich i U characters tnu noonM-i.njs drollery vith tender touch. s of patho* ...n,i-i-* of m- . THE JUCKLINS One of Mr. Road u vui > l>t ighteut uud uiuti huinoroiu storie*. THE CARPETBAQQER ;:K*D nml KHASK 1 : . mid pi ij-d with g:*at OLD EBENEZER Read s new utory In fnUr as capable of mion-i^fti! flrnmnt as waa *^Th Ju.k!iu." i Tri> MY YOUNQ MASTER recof;nlz- i > . claonlc of M tint. A KENTUCKY COLONHL Tl.ilsoBof the- ni. - written aJ art r. a* well an t 1 chacte. pieces of . A TENNE55EE JUDQE Thl4 is n ineatlon of rtain pha<i< H of pulilic life. It la a upifin*- r)i.irK- . -i i ; h and an un- sually interesting story. ON THE SUWANEE RIVER Th<> i-i tin" it.irv arc AH iiR l full of ini THE COLOS5US a by f\a eminent literary crilic to "tli.- iiiii>l <1. liK htfuJ i jiroduetion. ITT BONLORB f mnir qua- I .tiex <>f MI ... .. and is fuU i-f action, Incident and humor. LEN QANSETT in read tho t>,.ok wlthoat TUT irvr? IN THE CUP and lii-r Morlea Many of these are wot 1 ! 1-1 kl K<im siart- - Tlu-y ar typioul Till: \VlVi:s OF THE PROPHET The tlnmr.tho ph-t. and the ttyk* ts rfinnrl.ablo story hare as> counterpart in American literature. For Hale everywhere, or > IAIRD <J LEE, CHICAGO CONTENTS. I. SAN DIKT.O IN 1846. A THI: I-.XHI: CHAl TKk II. ITS \THX. Mi- : S ME . IATH OP . i\V, AXIJ S ASCII CH.. III. i l.I.Y. PAYS \K A i IT IN \viurii OUR \i, o/.o. A : :!i-: MKXICANS. HCil I \( K. (, \\ 1.. ! \ILORS CHAP I KR IV. [\ A VAQU1 - TIIK \T.-\VI: CHAIM I:R v. IT \( K. St. A HORSE TK A .. - - \ I AI l AKl! I-:K vi. A SURPKI^ AR.~ . MOV S. DON Arr; Contents. CHAPTER VII. INTON7O 5ANCHOS MAKES IT UNPLEASANT, AND ACCUSES MURDERING Till COURIER. TO THE CALAHOZO. AN IINATION. UPRISE. HEROES OF THE DAY. WAN 1 ED FOR THE ARMY. OFF Foi; I BARBARA, AND INCIDENTS ON TUB WAY. THE CAVALRY, AND ITS HURRIED MVRCH. SANTA BARBARA, AND SOME OLD AColAI.NlA.NCES. RANCHE REFUGIO, AND OUR K. TION IIY A STRUNG-MINDED WOMAN. CHAPTER VIII. A MUTUAL AGREEMENT. AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE. THE RANCHE. A FAN! NEXPIICTF.D MI i TINT;. A GRAND SURPRISE TO ALL. ! HOSPVTt IN AN APPEARANCE. A STRUG GLE FOR LIFE. A DISAPPOINTED GREASER. ON THE MARCH. A swi! ; ION. A LADY S GRATITUDE. A NEW PROGRAMME.- Till - J--IORT AND ENCAMPMENT. CHAPTER IX. A BRUSH WITH L \DKONES. A VoL NG LADY S MODE OF EXPRESSING THANK^. THE 1 ;DF.R. A LONG CoNFI.sSION. ON THE M 1 l.Ks. MON I EREY ONCE MOUK. DON . BLOW. THE AMERICAN ( O.VSCL l.XPREsSES AN UJLE (QUARTERS. AN EARTHQUAKE, AND A TU- ,, Will! GENERAL CASTRO. ANTONIO AND CAR! ARE SNUBBED. A DANGEROUS MISSION TO CAP- TA! CHAPTER X. CAPTAIN FREMONT S CAMP. THE 111 > DESPATCHES. A MGii \ FIRE. THE C)\ \LL.-THELETTERS FOR VIKIN. INSTRUCTIONS. ON THR TRAIL. THE INDIAN WOMAN. THE CAYALR Y SOUAD. THE SEARCH i.RAL CASTI:) Is SURPRISED. LEWEY TELLS so.Mi :MING THE CAMP. FISHINC; IN A FOG. THE IGATE. SPIES ON ALL SIDES. A FRIENDLY WARNING, CHAPTER XI. THE. ATTACK ON TH AND ITS RI- PULSE. EDWARDO SANCHOS fS A JUST FATE. THE RESCUING PARTY FROM THE FRIGATE A WINDFALL OF GOLD. THE BREAKFAST. A PRE- NG THE AMERICAN FLAG Al M"MEKEY. A \.--o.N 1HE MARCH. TFRRIP.LE DEATH OF TWO CUTION. A NIGHT SCI : HE BEACH. M PER xn. I BID SENOHA C LL. AND HAVE. \OCtiMMENTSTOM\KE. THE MAHf II To I.os ON 7 ! F. TO SAN DIEGO. A : IN D OF CoLD. A DIS APPOINTMENT ALL ROCND. SAN DIEGO. SCO rCH JACKGIYE^ US A RECEPTION. A UNITED STATES FLEKT. Oi . \ D. HOME AT LAST. L SIbTER. A HAl J Y Li IE AND A DARK CLOUD. THE LEWEY AND I; UK. SAILOR BOYS WANDERINGS. CHAPTER I. . 1846. AN OLD SEAMAN S PROTEST. DON .\ v Uf CISCO, AND m> SCAKKKD HAND. \ \ S SPORT. OL K DOC, JACK AND THE TURTLE. N IN FORCIBLE TERMS A MVM KKIuL.^ SHOT. 11 1 U Ab IN III he remembered that the ship Admittance had sailed from San Diego, California, for Boston, in January. 1846, and left the French lad, and rmself at the hide-house, on the beach, having been and paid off, by Captain Peterson, at our own request. \\" ( severe i i" the shape of smallpox, so successfully, that even the doctor of the town had been deceived, as well as the officers of the my previous work, ON LAVD AND SKA," I h. unhappincs*, as well as my own. when we saw the old ship leave the harbor, and pile on studding-sails, alow and aloft, as she passed Point .ind shaped her course about south for <.\i; liurn and For a lon^ time I refused to be comforted, and even Lewe\ ny nature, encouraging words, cheerful smiles, and glowing pictures of the ^.ou d lead as free, roving ranclieros. husbands of E ould not lift the weight of sorrow from my lu-.irt. as I thought Utives. and what a fool I had made of myself in remaining. I tb strangers fur friends, and no one to care for our Cut except an old shipmate, Scotch Jack, who had charge of the hide- Lewey a } io\vn, our treasurer and guar- . lever man, but who had cares enough of his attend to wYtliout bestowing much thought on two comparatively- unknown sailor boys, who were n<. have position or influence at home, and were classed with the usual run <>i .e sup posed, for I did not know at the time that my ter had made a pronounced report to Mr. Fitch in my behalf, and. perhaps, tyax- me a better reputation than I had reason to < < M Lew knew nothing, anil so had merely stated that the French boy was smart, active, and impudent, at times, and likely to lead a good lad, like myself, into trouble, unless a little advice was given m . when _)osed I should need it most. Had I been Lewey s brother he could not have treated me more tenderly, or done more to make me forget the unfortu in which I was placed, through his skillful inducements and persuasions to remain in Cali fornia, and link our fortunes with those of two dark-haired. < young females, who were not even on a level with the sailor boys, which we chanced to be, as neither of the girls had the slightest claims to an educa tion, and could not read nor write even a word of the musical hu which they spoke so rapidly, if not grammatically, lint they were hand some, and had the most willowy and graceful forms of a ! their class on the coast, and we loved them with all of a boy s ardor and passion ate nature, and were willing to forsake homes and relatives for the sake of enjoying their companionship, to be with them, and pass our days in idle ness, riding horseback over ranches, and rounding in our rattle, in imagi nation, when we wanted a little pleasant excitement, aside from fandangos and cock-fighti -,v that he had made a mistake, but he did not let it appear, cither on his face or in his conversation. To me he represented every- as rose colored, and that there was no occasion for anxiety, or care for the future. There were brilliant prospects before us, he sai-1. 1>\ piness, and wraith, and what more could we wish on our part ? \V< now our own mnstei . we pleased, go where we desired, and need care for no one, as long as we remained honest, and treated all with respcrt, and consi fitting their rank. \ndingallofL to make my position a pleas ant one, I could no 1 . tears from flowing every time I was alone, or after I had lunu-d into my bunk for the night, and many a hearty crying spell did I in l ilge in during the long and dreary hours of the rainy sea- Lewey a on, when the floo;! dc house, and the wind sel at anchor \\\ the barb \. aU ..* ig ft : More than a dozen times did i IJiul i ing his short black pipe, and look in, as tho .ing :he old ship, ho:. in;; tl, . nd thus : return f. il I :ld bright. let a smile pa-s over his hand- re the hapi-icst boy in the country, and cared noti >me or fr; ..-.id a*k me \ilut I :. saw us at tin-;: -:th our pocLcts full of : . ition in our hearts. But 1 knew th. ; his mii If, only he concealed his emotions better than I could, and not so faint hearted un < hcer me ,rds of e :ient hin. no doubt but that his :s wet \\i: !D as my own. only he was too manly to confess his weakness, or make me a confidai. his anx:- One forenoon, about a week after th Admittance had sailed for home, and when we had exhausted the resources of the hide-ho, all the books, and reading them, to be found on the ung heavily. did not want to start on our long journe land for Ranche Kefu^io. on account of the severe rains at that season of Vring travel extremely unpleasant. any with Scotch Jack and . the othet beer, hen the ship sa : lcd, as t about one thousand hides being in the < uld cure them in time for shipment, during the spells o: : ch did come once in a while in the wet season. .\s he helped himself t beef steak, and then to a pot of coffee, " wh.it plans ha\\ i the fu ture ? You don t mean to remain anchored in this bloody hole all your lives, <io you ? " .. you t i ro t suspicion that tuch might be the case, I asked i n a little eagt e ready answer. I don t tire of good company to ea- -he old mar. left orders to keep you ;MI as long *s you de- 8 Lcwcy and I. : to remain. But you had some object in leaving the ship, and I wanti .hat it is." \Ve mean to get married, and settle down on a ranche," I answered, and . a sniff of deep contempt passed over the weather-beaten, rugged face : salt, and he uttered a strong expletive, and said, Well, of all the young greenhorns and fools that I ever seed, you is the isked Lewey, as he filled his pipe, preparatory for a siv.okc, and d at my face, to see how the announcement affected me. s, how does you think your people would like it if you married a bloody greaser?" and the master of the hide-house uttered a deep sni.: disgust as he looked at us and a half-caste Indian woman, who was wam.u- along the beach, seeking to attract the notice of some kanakas who re at work on hides in the premises adjoining our own. * They is all alike," Jack continued, when he noticed that the femile had retraced lu-r steps toward the town, followed by the hooting yells of the natives of the Sandwich Islands. " Would I marry a greaser?" he asked, quite severely. As we did not know we remained disci eetly silent. " Look at me," Jack said. " I m an old, battered sailor-man, but there s Scotch blood in my veins, and a true son of old Scotland never disgraces his name." Considering that Jack got drunk as often as he had a chance, we thought this boasting a little premature, although the man was as honest a person as there was in California at the time. k at my face, the old sailor said, "and tell me what for should I want a wife ? " It w.is a hard-looking face, all seamed and blackened by exposure to hot tuns and heavy gales, and we did not imagine for a moment that a woman Id be likely to fall in love with it, unless there was wealth to back it, and Jack was not rich in worldly goods, as he was dependent upon his fifteen dollars per month for support, and a shot in the locker for old age. " No," the sailor continued, as soon as he had got his pipe well under way, "a man is best off without a wife, for what could I do with one if I wa disposed to marry? Take my advice, and keep single, like me, and when you come to my years and wisdom, splice a white woman, and c> your kind, and see to it that he has a little property to fall back upon, when you takes a short vi^e for the sake of peace and quietness, which can t always have at home if you is married. Hut no greaser for me, and none for you, if my advice is followed." Ltwey and I. "But ve loves de .-ailed Lewey. " Dey is slch nice ones, and is so mm vould die for us if ve vanted der. e contemptuous expression. " Don t you believes yerself. They all say that, and then sell you out at the first chance they gets, friends, and of your future, and let the woraen alone, if you I good for yers This was kind advice, and worthy of a man of better position than Scotch Jack, and we should have done well to have heeded it . * In love never think that their advisers and elders know anything, so of cr we did not change our opinion on the subject that was nearest our hearts. 44 If 1 supposed for a moment that you lads was goin to make I yers -.k me if I would n t clap you in irons, and keep you on bread and water till I d starved the nonsense all out of you, th. !o." -d at the words, for Jack did not possess the power t threat into execution, as there were no irons on the beach, and I doubt if - were handcu: Diego, as lashings of rawhide were emj ! to bind refractory Indians, or thieving Mexicans of the lower class, if one shotud be arrested accidentally, and held for trial. As Jack uttered the last ominous words, our dog, the lively little : we had bought and i year or two before, and kept on board the mittance until we were removed to the shore, with pretended symptoms of the smallpox, uttered several ominou ^ ->t up from under the table, and walked toward the door, sn ffing and : -aser is near the house," said the Scotchman. "You r s tell bv so hate a Mexican ; one of the iss." Our dog Jack, ever since the noted fight with the vaquero s mastiff, had a gre.i > to the poorer class of . and never allowed one to e near the hide-house until he had uttered a protest. u k from the table, for the purpose of going to the dof seeing who approached our premises, a tall, lank, swarthy Mexican, with scrape around his shoulders, and broad-hrlmmcd sombrero on ! a shock of thick black hair that had never known brush or comb, mce of ( md stood frr a moment at the thresh- * and the (! I; <1 not know which was the k was sniffing at his heels, and had not qu te made part if the greaser s body he should take a mouthful, and th- Mcx; kirk the dog, or elie axsail him fO "Come here, Jack. .ni tone, but did so reluctantly, aiu , whil uttered Indiana;;: protests, in " Buenos with a stately grace that even the \ -me, when it suits his purpose to be polite a M he meets, even if he hates them with an undying hatr who stood at the door had occasion -i discovered, to our sorrow. i, senor," Lewey respo: pleased to enter, and take a s The Mexican did not respond to tl ne reason, bi:t ; in the doorway, and looked at Le oring to recall our faces to his mind, i do not remember me," the Me- have met you two young caballeros quite often , lancisco. Do know me, senors ? " Yes, we recollected him quite well, now that IK- ..1 smiled on us in such a friendly . .tonio S.ir :ena, one of three brothers, ami monsters nev \ntion. They spective! treacherous in the order nvjn Jon _-!, the hi the leader of tl They would steal and murder all who were throv n in their w.iy, unless the intern! well armed, and then they were too crafty to make an open attack. " \Ve remember you," said Lewey, speaking in Spanish. " You arc Don Antonio Sanchos," giving the fellow his full tit! it would please him. The Mexican bowed, and a smile arc, as he liked the designation of don, to which he some people like to be called "ho;, the world, under the impn- on. and that they will be elevated in a s< ; e aid of a handle to names. H Come and have a drop of coffee," I said, for the fellow did not mnvp rrom hl position, but still stood near the door, smiling and rubbing hit hands. "Ah. sen or. a thousand thapks Jor >our kind offer," v .he Mexican rt> 1 1 . ncri- .1 bite or a . , to in the smiling, . : who .1 little I said. :k. The : not seem to k that a 1 ! Lod showing hifl .-vn in a cor ner, and w..tc!:t : eyes, as though longing lor an encouraging won!, so that he could spring, and bite one whom he considered an enemy to us and our sun . caballeros," Don Sanchos said, as he ; ot of coffee to " I m glad to meet my American friends once more. It is a - I .nner. .s of the * or .un and frolic, ther. ! find one of my trymon. lit is the thickest, there meet my peo ple lead ; . Yes, J m French, and next t<> I Americano.* 1 k did not ui. . > there was no o . i he had sailed f<>: marine, was a little tet, . the sul-; 11 the records < o is nKo French?" asked the ing to me, coffee. . "he boasts of beinq; a full-blooded . and s that his people can lick all the world with one hand tied, and a foot c all over, as any one can see ; but he is Trcnrhman tho ne nice Americano," and the crras^r 1< a mo rne. and then s?t his pot of hot coffe* the table, and hand over hi.^ .\r, inch and a half \y that scar, and how he had received it, and the si.^hf m.ule me teej 12 Lewey ami L t little uncomfortable for a moment, as I thought of all the circumstances ^ the pa i, and why the ieiio.v had been injured. Then I looked up, aud - ..ad followed my own, and we exchan^ . il. ui significant meaning, ana once more we U-. .k that .e a deep mistake in remaining in Caliiui.iia iiisiead o; ..nice. ihe greasei noted the expression that was on both of oui f.,ccs, and I :ed a flash of his sinister eyes that did not 1 itentions, but he betrayed no further irritation, even if he did continue to rub the scar that showed so vividly on his dark, dirty hand. There wr* something fascinating in the Mexican s movements, and 1 sat and looked at him and the old wound, and recalled all the circumstances of how it wa given, nearly a year before. We were at Yerba Buena, and one day Antonio Sanchos had been on board the ship to do a little trading, or stealing, just as the occasion served. He did not buy much, and when we set him on shore, in company with three ladies, he had crowded one of them so much, in a rude and , manuer, in the stern-sheets of the boat, that she complained to me about the incivility of the greaser. I asked him to give the ladies more room, and to take a seat on a vacant thwart, -but, instead of doing so, consigned me and the women to a pbce much warmer than San Diego in the sum mer-time. As I knew the greaser was cowardly at heart, and more coward ly than ever on the water, for fear that he would get wet, I dropped the yoke-lines, by which I was steering the boat, told the boys to stop rowing, caught the fellow by the long hair of his head, gave him a sudden jerk, and threw him under a thwart, and then Lewey put his foot on the man s neck, and held him captive until we beached the boat, when the ladies anded, and thanked me for the protection which I had granted them. The Mexican did not (We vent his spite on the women, as they were members of influential families, with fathers and husbands, brothers and cousins, who would have revenged a premeditated insult with instant death, or have set a hundred wild Indians on the whole race of Sanchos, and ex terminated them from the face of the earth, consequently Antonio, as soon as Lewey removed his fot from the prostrate neck, sprang to his feet, i long knife from his legging, and made a lunge at the French lad that would have ended his adventurous career then and there, and the Gaulic nation might have lost a good and brave admiral, who is now serv ing his country with honor, in great hopes of sometime maVIng it as grand and warlike as before the disasters ia front of the German hosts. /. ! 3 ened to have the boat-hook in my ha:. <>se c boat further on the beach, and, as I noted the greaser * threaten- -ruck at the weapon, and Lewey was saved. Then, as Sanchos stooped to pick up the knife, with deep curses on h that he meant hief, so just jabbed his hand with the point of the result was a yell, more imprecations, and a bad wound m to carry his hand in a sling for many a day, and to forego alltl , killing any one on the beach. The wound had healed, but the tear remained, and so did the memory of the injury, as I could tell by the . for this was the first time I had seen him since the fracas. The , had almost passed from my mind, as I did not consider sufficient consequence to remember, we had so many adventures le hidedroghins, and Lewey was constantly in hot water, on some ac- count or other. you \ io\v," said Lewey, speaking in French, " I really of the world recollects that punch of the boat-hook, which you Francisco. *t tba vie he cut at me with his knife, and you saved my life " : s the case, what brings him here ? He seems friendly enough at the present time," I answered. The greaser listened attentively, but he could not comprehend a word that \ve uttered, neither did he know anything of the English tongue, but we feared he n. low is like a woman," the irrepressible Lewc He is snv -jibbing his wound at the same time. N o one does that but a >sires revenge for some fancied injuries, and - - her .ime l>cfore she is ready to show her claws, and scratch. Thorn, we must .11, and be on our guard. He means mischief, I beli think he would come to us. when it ml- :o keep at a distance, and remain unknown? I thir.k h given ami forgotten all alxnit the jab of the rx it. A greaser s memory is loni;, and his reven: irn in the blood, and never eradicated until death. have a t the cur as he sits here at the table, and so end his ca- -are our safety at the same time," ! on t talk like a bravo. You arc incapable of killing one of tht nu: iat is flying over tl -Mont she N and de- jj v , ,eral oration over the remain*. You have or just ye k to keep your tongue going." 14 Lewey and /. . \ough lie could not deny the charge, and then Scotch Jack and the kanaka left the room to look after some hides in the v 1 not rind the French or Spanish languages particular . .ble to understand them. Sandios, while we were conversing, looked from Lewey s face to my own, as if to read our thoughts, as he could not comprehend our words. Then he quietly rubbed his old wound, as if to quicken his ideas and re membrances of the past. ic ma>tur of the house an American ? " asked Sanehos, as the old sailor disappeared. ; he is a Scotchman, and a good fellow in the bargain," I said. . die response. 4 - What is good? asked the French lad, m an abrupt tone. "The man. The maestre de casa. He is a Scotchman. We like the Scotch." nd the French ? v asked Lewey. " Oh, we adore the French," was the answer, in a sneering tone. 1 the Americanos?" I said. :t friends we are ! No one can adore the Yankees as the cans do. They come here and trade, and marry our women, get rich, and lead such lazy 1! envy them for their enterprise and desire to make )h, yes, we all love thegringoes. They are so good." Here he rubbed his scar, and smiled on us, but it was not a pleasant smile. " We think of marrying in a few weeks," Lewey said, in tone, as th< is an every day occurrence on our part. sk the names of the fortunate senorita- in that did not become his dark, dirty face. , yes. They are called Anita and Kr Kefir ave been acquainted with them for many n ,id the Impulsive and frank-spoken Lewey, who always made a confidant ci one a! unit his love affairs. itaand K: " repeated the greaser, and once more nil.l I shall remember those names for a lon-j time, and i. you joy on your bridal fliy. It will be very pleasant." Her ominous growl, and walked toward the Mexican, and sniffed at his feet, as though anxious for a ]> -. <-sh. i left the ship for the sake of the senoritas? " demanded the greaser, as soon as we had called off the brute.-. Lewcy and I. ,,., _. we like Calif, ; -eweyren,. .,1, for I had n -, matncu:. .-..ing. .^.-otulocl the g means t to taken; :Jcacein I in time be , .mdgood ,11 ot lli- ould be i forwel ard of the regulation, and tl x ... 6 country, where c come ken - the Mexican reir. n. I suppose that you know your own minds, and .lo." \Vc mean to marry, and purchase a rant y and : i hurry. Take your time about it. , may be able to help you in Jc frankl. -iot like 1 ited the old wound. 5nP ne involved in our in fortunes. , exclaimed, and we thou- .- .1 him to be when we first met hi - cnouqh. d toward the doo The brute did not seem to lose fcl mosity by the departure of the trreaser, for he continued -how iigns of a desire to fasten on one of the I ^ to peak tharply to induce the animal to keep at a distance. vce dosr." the Mexican said, but there was an evil look in hii dark, flash: n* eyes as he utiered the word* " He is not like hii masters, for ht Lewey and I. cmi from an enemy. Well, adios. I must rc:urn to . e business there.* it it Mngular that a greaser should have business of any kind, :>g cattle, but said nothing, as we did nut care to detain him, rid of the man for the time being. : Lewey, as the fellow was about to mount his horse, the bay of San Francisco ? " a since," was the reply, as the man swung his lithe form .addle, and headed his horse for the town. s there much news of importance ? " we questioned. Not th.it we thought there could be any of moment. E great .vents happening up North," was the response. "An American named Fremont is on the Sacramento River, with a band of lu- tfrones, and Genera! Castro has leit Monterey to drive him over the moun- retched home, or kill all who oppose him." ed at the idea of Castro putting Fremont and his Rocky- in trappers to rlig r.t, and the Mexican seemed to resent it, for he said, re is more news of an important nature. The United States has annexed Tex.is, and war has been declared between the two count: There will be bloody battles and hot work before long." " And why did you leave San Francisco if fighting was to take place so joon ? " Lewey asked, in a sneering tone. " I am the bearer of despatches, and the courier and agent of General Castro," was the prompt answer. " I have left orders at every to.vn on the -t, and am now on my way to San Diego. 1 " It is lucky we have you as a friend," I said. " Without some one to totect us, we fear that we should never be able to est ranche, and marry the girls we love." rned the greaser, as he gathered up his reins. " it is very lucky that we met at the bay some months ago, so that I can vouch for you >neno machineries, who would harm no one. Oh, yes, you are all r Adios, senors liking the horse with his long, heavy spurs, he 1 over the road that led alont; the bay toward San D and I looked at each other s faces when the greaser had disap- \Ve did not see much to encourage either of us in our respective countenances. 11," I said at length, " I wish that I was on board of the old Admit- one- more. \Ve arc in a confounded mess, and no mista 44 So do I," responded Lewey, "but vo is heic on vie bc.ich, a.M uf Lcwey a>. 7 ,in can put us < ikc de be*t of it. Ve a 1 . Dal viU suit .;.it what do you think of the greaser, Sanchos?" I asked. "line . what he says ? Will he be a friend or enemy ? " ou ebber know a half-caste Mexican to forget one injury? de- ; ench lad, with a touch of scorn, which he made no effort to rubs urn hand to keep alive de thought of de punch you gib him vid de boat-hook. I no trust a greaser fudder da I can throw a tail by vey had rather mixed the familiar quotation, but I xva too troubled in unit! to < ht War between the United States and Mexico might De a serious business for us, and unsettle all of our plans, To b iura, we p on board some vessel, and thus escape all serious trouble, bu j-,,1 :i\ more surf experiences, or to pull and haul ropes, furl sails, nd brace yards. We had anticipated a more pleasant life, and could not ,ine one that suited our ideas better than living with the girls we loved. . > use to borrow trouble just at present, we thought, but re- iolved to see Captain Fitch, our treasurer and guardian, and consult him at the first convenient opportunity, and abide by his advice. of influence in the country, and the Mexicans had great confidence i: >, they always borrowed his money when they were him good interest for the same, and the princ : ul not before. . ; we wandered down to t .-e vats where the Scotchman re stirring up some hides, " that greaser says the U;. have gone to I as the response of the old sailor, as he it ,-ind listen to our communication. .1 moment s pause, " may the best man win," havi: .mcthing after the fashion of a prize-fight, involving bottl holders n .t we fear the trouble will injure our prospect*," I suggested. n to injure you two chicks while you is on the bear Oder my protect * sturdy old Scotchman. fcl ll( t oolin 1 around heix- : n out of the water. lieve me." who could cot re- of time. Lewey and /. " Ne ind where they comes from, they II get their heads broke jist the same if they puts a hand on any old shipmate of mine, nuw I tclk you." " He ; ou defend us and the hide house at the sam ask - :ets the skipper left me v. They is over my hunk, and lots of powder and sl.o 8 st. I could hold out agin a hundred p "cke ; ipe iu perfect contentm* He was about to renew his work when ih i enormous flock of wi! ! ho;- ich other, as they looked out for a plao ,hoals and muddy banks of the bay, and all alon tide was half ebb, and the ducks and other fowl were con 11 di- i the insects and fiddler-crabs that hr. ?hc rea iwhatitisTshi . I have n t - | , se or dur: l feel a r something different from fr Co iv. ys has nothin to do. Take the two ol and see ui t shoot a little -ame. The tri; occupy your time. I don t like t- ys mope, "r aVi N w if : - aguardiente \v- coul(! -.vn and i Vtnosen old man told me to set you a goo ,ose I mr hink there is a -of the--- \ had had some experience with the weapons up Xorth. -u is careful, and d much of a load. Good ; "ae can !. -id ducks here in tho bay. >se on J em. Come, -o along with crtime. I "vc go; tin on th<- :H! not shoot each other, an ack some little recreation, to kcop out th< the i i ie future, we jumped at the proposal t ; ks and ;;<- ,r-. \ old muskets, flint-lo. ->us bore nd clumsy, cleaned them from rust took eno powder and shot ; charges, whistk-d for Jack, tht 1 9 red the s.twll skit; all the L ,C claimc* .n, aUhcv: is before Ut much more ox- i-ru-nccd in the and mine own co; <lc in de nice pie." it much > to be seen a- . insane C Indians when t: , eat thav. -nt there v md snip-. :sent time, make an Eastern sportsma : .clight at n. re within t:n fathoms of the fowl when the brant !<>r the purpose of inspect : red. v," I whispered, to them. I a go< re." The hd stpnclii.-.! hi; elbow on one of the thwatN ki.- !: B pale, ana ut: he | ol the Han-er he was wilfully incurr knew the lot, and should not have sup: - ring him, re?" 1 askeH, holJin- the Init in . 2O Leivey and I. hand, and the lively little Jack with the other, for the dog seemed possessed with the idea that the expedition was gotten up on hi* own account, and that he was privileged to make as much noise as he pleased, jump over board, swim to the game, and attack it single-handed. My dear ami," said the French lad, removing the gun from his shoul der, and looking at me, as though doubtful how the confession would be re ceived, " I i* afraid of dis old musket. You tires him if you viil. I is just and ginerous." " Give m the gun/ I cried, in t firm ton*. M I will shew you how to kill game." This boasting irritated my friend, for h said, Nivcr. I takes de risk all on mine self. 1 can shoot am ai wU as you. Now seed me." Once again he raised the rausket, took a good aim at the unsuspecting game, shut both eyes, and then there was a roar, a flash, and a sheet of flame issued from the old musket, and the next moment Lewey was lying under one of the thwarts, and the gun went overboard, in two feet oi water. There was a rl utter among the geese and fowl, feathtrs flew in all di rections, and a dozen dead and wounded brant and ducks were lying on the sand and mud, while the uninjured, with cackles and honks of astonishment, flew to other feeding grounds, where they could fill up undisturbed. Jack, with loud barks of astonishment and delight, bounded out of the boat into the water, and made for the shore, to finish the work of destruction, biting the fluttering ducks, and fighting the hissing geese as if fearful that he would not do his share unless an immense amount of activity was dis- 1 on his part. I dropped the oar, by which I was sculling the skiff, and went to the aid fcf my di> 1, as I pulled him out from under the thwart, "are you " I is not er, " hut I is most killed vld my shoulder. . hits c:n? Ah, vot one co it shot ? i slays i:l. >ed his head, and looked arov . iVf as i-.c could move . bi all i ;ght, although he I -xt time you fires him youriisclf," the French boy said. "1 has Lewey and I. 21 killed mine share for one day. Ah, vot a shot vos dat, and how much it re minds me of dear old France." Do all the guns in France kick like this ? " I ask. . **Ah, by gar, much vusser 1 Dese guns is nothin 1 like mine country *,** and, if such was the case, I mentally plied the hunters and sportsmen ol U bell-. But I think he was boasting, or lying. Finding that the boy s injuries were ?ot so serious as I supposed, we 9 back to the place where aie old musket was q-. the bottom of the bay, managed to secure it, and then landed on the . where Jack was impatiently awaiting us, all the wounded due. , ki.led, and piled up in a heap, awaiting inspection and a; There were seven brant, two gray geese, six ducks, and three snipe, -hot, but then the old musket was overcharged, and scattered : ly at long range. s delighted at his success, and declared that no one couM .rksman, and I have no doubt but that his gunning still lurnishes him a fruitful theme for conversation when he 1. dinners on shore and sea. How his listeners must qim each other, as he talks, and wonder that a man should al. .11 talking about hunting and fishing. The last time I saw m\ ealcd to me to corroberate his statement, and, when I i! certain jns on the faces of those j . polite ::tiemcn were, for, although they did not doubt u.* dent they had never seen wild fowl as plentiful as >>res ol San Diego bay, near Ballast Point, Puii.t Lorna, ::nJ ." red up the spoil, and once more paddled around : .:sic. We saw large numbers of geese and ducks n beaded for them, the boat moving along quietly so as not to dis- " fowl. This time Lewey thought that I shoul ! i I was not enthusiastic, after his experience, I did not sh ather, for fear of i :t I loaded the gun with a small quantity of powder and shot, and hoped for the best. in we were in shoal water, n thorn* of the ernme. the heads and looV-d .it us, hut Ter to move from their feeding crcvr .v yon ib dem fits," whispered LC\T- -*t then TirV. who it was a command for him to show his usefulness, jumped oat >f the boat, and m.irlr for thr <;Vnre. TW tiucks and - c^e -,\*4f JUarwt d at tht plunge, took to their Lewey and /. >nks and qua d, just as they arose, I aimed at ihe std <" \ oil an, :ilbleda and ducks, some killed outrignt, , , ^ , I done I I could n t i :t , , voukl n - t hab you could do so veil 1 ^ just and] Eromhisa h \ l^^iaii- ( and appreciated my friend s mions of Jack, wl allow a si d to escape, use - to Hkc . .nning every we turned our attention to ci . dozen or more, and, ^ among axcll.and shouted, do come here, and see de vaikin snuffbox I Ah, now ve shaL .ui" to where he was, on a piece of sandy beach, and found the l-oy junr tt d down, dancing arounci ,-d.pound turtle, an.; h and broken English a5 though he ba 1 found a | -cl did nut know IH . | it. ;e de old valkin .snuffbox ! I . :iSSe lf | G h, c!e nice oup he iaW you ? iad then Lewey showere,! dowr Btonei on tlv. id. : turn it over on its 1 . 1 nnd the Impulsive I d to accomplish the j. cached, the turtle commenced using its f! throw- clou Is of san(! and gravel in the riklng the face of m d for n moment biinrifng h!m, so that he had to cover his ey< - from the Inry of the STorm. I ran ahead of the turtle, and, when th" snnd cloud wai leu dense, turned the prize on its hark, nnr! thus hnd it spmrr. nnd at Ottf mercy. " Nehber seed nnydln^ like dat nf. -v re:r.tikM, as he bnished the pr:iy(-1-s!r>n*s from his eyes nnd hair. "lie n>ht ail behind like de ;; is him, .MM! de good soup at da samt tfm*. Ah, n innate boys ve i*. Ve alvays comes oo our fast ven der2 IA much dan- I That was all true, but how were we to get the turtle in the boat, and es- :;ic serious bites from tne ponderous jaws, that seeme<; enougn to crush a piece of iron ? We could not cut off ; tiie attempt, it would draw it in beneath the shell. After all othci v:its had failed we obtained so: :,om the l. a slip-noose, dropped it over the turtle s neck, and, with the aitl 01 an oar, prepared to carry the priie to the skiff. It was n t plea&ant fur the turtle, and neither would it have been agreeable to us had closed <>n one of our limbs. Jack wanted to take a hand in tht entertainment, and once cr ! the turtle as though wondering if tl, . it, -ren such an animal before, and seemed i; on that he could lick it in a fair combat, and, when he turn our a the matter, allowed his tail to get within the icre was a ell, and the m< With a shrill " Ki-yi ! " Jack turned to run, but he hundred pounds, so pawed s.ind and gravel until tl. ill particles of dirt, re.^t e shower which the turtle thrown at Lewey. ! you ebber seed sich a fool in all your born da de debil vill ve do ncr,\ ? Ci-t de tf, or de _;ar! dis beats etaryding dat I has seen in my long and eventful 1 v.hile Lewcy was talking, the dog was suffering, and yelping like a Indian m Attack on a defenceless party of emigrants. \Ve out . s, and hacked away at the turtle s neck, but for a long not seem to make any impression, or cause the jaws to let go their t-ji; But blood commenced to flow, an fiercer a* \\t thought of Jack s sufferings. At last the j the tail \vas free, and then if that plucky little build. turn around, ! .igrab at one of his enemy s flippers, and bite as thou-h to be >ut he had suffered. It was a long time 1> : >r he was as tenaci s antagonist when stened his grip 01 an oppon" -is lacerated a little, but it soon got well. .: some protecting the wound from :!.e flies an were very abundant on the beach, and at the hide-house. i back to our quarters. r, r . rather, drifted, (; :!. ^ood, ird, when we struck ib btach, Scotch Jack an . Lewey and I. meet us, and see what luck we had had. Their amazement and commend* tions \\ere great when they sa .it of our forenoon s work. The tur tle they were a little su.-picious of, and Jack said that it \\as no - <>.! for hu- mans to eat, but, after Lewey liad eulogized the beautiiul soup that it would :e, although he frankly ackn he did not know how to make it, the old sailor said that we had better land the turtle, and stow it away in the hide-house until sue!) time as he could study up on the subject, aid see how it would be proper to prepare the soup. The game found welcome customers among the people on the beach, but after we had supplied all who wanted a goose or duck, four.d that we had half a dozen brant and geese left for our own consumption. But the Scotchman mourned for the wet, rusty musket, and refused to be comforted until we had taken the gun all to pieces, ami oiled it in a thorough manner. Then he was satisfied, and said that we c uld go gun* ning again the next morning, or as often as we wished, but v.c never had T day s sport on the shores of the bay of San Die_o, having other and more important business to attend to. \Ve often thought of Jack, the ii . and the diu i. <.f Spr.ni- late years, if s;.i,n.->men of Southern the trouble to indulge in hunting, and fur a time forget the cares of busi ness life. For those fond of the gun and rod there ne\ a ] lace like San Diego, and its vicinity, many years ago. Then no skill or tac wza re quired to hi: a boat with fish or fowl in a short time. \\ e took a swim, dined, had the usual afternoon s siesta and roused up, our pipes, and wondered what we should do for an tainment, as new books were very scarce, when who should enter the hide- ut our friend and guardian, Captain Fitch, of San ]) "Wei lie asked, "arc you ail r-^ht ? No m rt 5vmpt ne? Did you play a prank on Peterson, or, honest and ill ? immcrcd T, md r.?\vcy ro-e< !, - with .hough he lelt that he had a hard line of li ^ft on shore. hen, I 11 allow you were sick. Now. what an to You don t intend to stav V -i ?" tl.inl: of he, and petting m. t the i to be b; omc time, and thr> ouic -r the DCtl the old gfntleBUu-.in a re- -il.ir quarter-deck tone of Lewev and I. and he i hough a: s on our x -ons. I in love vid i -:ig ladies," L t3 :er over in a speedy manner, .a fiddlestick!" the captain cried. "Look ahere, if of ;,ou until }our I never hc.ird of such ridiculous "foolishness in all my i Lord, h - l u<t " he nonsense out of you with a rope s-i- ied in this country if he is \\\ -cd. >. U ;n t talk to me. 1 11 clap you both in irons i then, : s he paced the room in which the held, sud ped, am! lOtt t 1 wish i uind you if Midi a pn.positi.m was broached to him. 1 m t,,,, i-oaturcd wit .i bo\s. \\ ..\ the d-vil don l you tell I uooiul," said Lcw^y, with a smack of his lips. . of such nonsense," was the fierce rejoinder. .. off-colore-.l," 1 ventured to remark. s the contemptuous e>. . think that boys who h.; it up, and have a little edu- taking half caste girls for wives. I nev \-m.-in, n<^ matter vot is de color ob de face," rer he frank Captain. "A ,, il ; ,,)uaredoi.^? Do moment what ad is IK vouM help keep de house in onlor. and vip all de shiU. ll 1. with a f.ir-awnv look in ! tare, and he could picture an vl : m.ikinu Wv ! mon- nt to conf m to know something* talUon.ia inarrid life," I suggested, 8 28 Lewey and /. the words, the captain turned on me to sefe If t \ords, but, seeing that I was not inclined to be sai for his matrimonial existence was said to be a very ba;>;-y one, he i.nly an swered, " I know what I know, and you don t. But let us drop the subject, for 1 have more important duties to attend to. There is a rumor in town that w ir has been declared between Mexico and the United States. At a:iy rate the latter country has annexed Texas, and, if there is no \\arnow there soon will be. This will make the positions of unnaturalixed citizens in California a little precarious, for the greasers may be terribly e against the gringos, and perhaps resort to acts of violence which v, not prevent, do the best we can to shield our countrymen. 1 hav in this part of the State, and will do what I can f< you give up this idea of marrying, settle on a ranche, and raise cattle, in- stead of children. But, to do all this you must take out a matriculador. and then declare your intention of becoming a naturalized citizen. I h<>. .liars of your money, left in trust by Captain IV i can do much in the way of a start. Will you think of what I have let me know your decision in the course of a few da, i, sir, but our minds are all made up on the subject of gettii:. ried. We have pledged our words, and they should be sacred," I said, and no U ed an acquiescence of my sentiments. " .My boys," the captain remarked, in a low tone, " there is nothing sacred here in California, when one s interest runs counter to his anticipations. You b> guided by me, and all will come out right, and I n; u rich and prosperous rancheros before many years. But keep away from the girls, and by and by, when the proper time comes along, I 11 see if I can t fc n d y cent young women as companions for life. Leave all to me, and don t be blanked fools." We did n"t desire to argue the point any more, and so held our tongues, hut perhaps it would have been as well if we had taken his advice, for he meant t, and really desired to better our fortunes, and the i he pointed out was the proper one to take. But we were infatuated, and, \\hen such is the case, reason and prudence are thrown aside by bc.t: boys. We told the captain of our gunning expedition, the capture o. the turtle, and killing of the geese and ducks, and the old gentleman rubbed his hands, as he said, -1 m going to have some swell Mexicans at my house tomorrow even- \\c Lewey and /. 29 aid i will give them a bit of supper, and a little enteitainment 1 )! egamc. Tlu. How .11? bay two geese, a pair of biatit, and . i: ,uin that he was welcome to all . i, and that could not think of taking a rnedio from him. ! I don t want your property without ; -.lough ? " and the captain threw on the to .,1 refused to return ti.em to his pocket, even . all intention of selling the products of our e.v .iptain said, in a cheery tone. -end a liter 1 return home, for the turtle ar. ani! .1 1 grace my table." Then he he something on his mind, and fu me that you two ladj once gave an entertainment before i Monterey, and that there were lot gotten now just wiiat it was, but M r,e by repeating it at my house tomom ior they are as proud as Lucifer, . I will give you a h fur your trouble. 1 will withdraw the offer of money, and let us volunteer O >0 u," and Leu E thought ot the exhibition at M of the old women, squeals of the young : | |f| ! ..ii.alleros. .ou please. I won t offer you money, but you shan : ;1 come, and amuse m\ 1 hey nev [ il send some borsei the .in rule up to town, and rcm.i M of me?" 5 m, and heard f rl f the conversation. ait the boys. I \ to their compam ti-.t them to !unk outside of the house. Cn : I COW Up :in- J . look f.r .1 moment, and then s.vd. " \Vi> Mf C.ll k 5 " "Oh, just where you ule- I a n t u-nrter deck com; Lcwcy at id I. know. Put me on the forecast 1 ^ I me tend the head sheets, and I U be all ri-l.t/ ^eiitLman s parlor is not like a ship s deck, Jack," the captain re marked. * 1 know all that, sir, but I m one of the kind what can do duty any where. I can help the cook, p.iss the grub, or turn my hand to anything/ Jack said. ;i to drinking more than your share of aguardiente. Jack i tain a bantering tone. M Wei ., sir, I never yet had my full s -are, and don t think that : *hall. But, all the same, I d like to see the lads give thci; exhibition." 1 you promise to keep sober, Jack?" demanded Caj tain Fiuh. and now he was sp< alvin ; seriously, for the Scotchman uas a terror wl. got full of native rum, and willing to fight half a dozen greasers at the same time, or any one who defied him. rd, sir, a judge could n t keep more sober than me, when : A-ord for it. I 11 only urink when you axes me to, and I hope it \\:. dften as you liiinks is all right and pioper. Say about one tot to ea ill the it won t be much, sir, for an able seaman, wha; his d ,.! >it, on K:;d and water." As Jack could be relied on, when he pledged his word, the * gmiled, and said that he might come, but he must keep in the background, 4 nd pi ie of the mass of helpers, for the grandees who - lity would not tolerate a sailor man in their com] any, ICCr, and master of a ship, at that. 1 quite satisfactorily to every one, and duii: m the ll enthusiastic over the gord time he v nd how Providence seemed to have interfered in his behali. lice boys i to console him in his solitude, and u quarters. The nvxt day WC got out the wooden balls and sticks, and j n two hours, or i;:,::! Lewey could spin the plates without Icttii md all the ere thrtis occupied Jack and the kanaka \\atched our movement - interest, praising - id nitici.sii ( re ,.] v ,.r s (\\ ( \ n . Of them. At last the son of the Sandwich Islands could no longer repress his admiration, and he claimed. like much ->nt to go too, and see de fun." Lewev and L 31 . <>u know Jack, : K e, and not try to torce your>-Il . 80 the; : f th t :im from the sailor, and boss, 1 1 i is presence upon us. He wa ! up M 1 second, as the master of the 1 responsibility and trusr, ; r. th- - .h"n much vuhi. > our owners. much to look after forapmnir. .ir usual after;: 1 then <; :oes, and silk : when he hail !mt, as he tho-- :.e and his tout ensemble, or general m;: to as- incc at \\. :\\ peculiar s.iti )-icc I asked him if he expected man in the course of the cv M-red that the female did not live to whom 1 c 1 slie was title, with a distil; ild wait until sue! . i her good acn> ;oke our more nd he caperc the feet of our i, . had let him lo ! us as u , him. j- Lewey and T. We did not care to send Jack back, so spoke a few words of kindness to him, and that satisfied the brute lie was all right, and could go with us. .ad to ride slowly, on account of Scotch Jack, who was not much of a cavalier, but, just as twilight was closing in around us, rendering objects a little indistinct, we were surprised to hear the report of a rifle in a thick copse of willows, or bushes, on the left of the road, and then the old sailor s stiff tarpaulin fell into the mud, and Jack was swearing with all the energy of his rugged nature at the disaster. .1 moment we could not realize what had happened, but the Scotchman dismounted, saying as he did so, That was a narrow squeak, boys. An inch or two nearer, and old J.u.k would have been laid away forever." " Do you mean to tell us that a ball struck your hat?" Lewey and I de manded, both speaking at once. That 3 what I intended to convey," the sailor said. " See here," and he thrust one of his fingers through a hole near the rim of the hat. for him, Jack!" I shouted to the dog, who was looking at us in wonderment, and waiting for orders. auiiv. il -^ave an angry growl, and dashed toward the cop>c of bush- TS. The next instant Lewey and I were heading our horses in the same I rection, heedless of the Scotchman s cries to come back, as it was no use . chase, for a stern one is a long one, and we did not know the coun try any too well. We plunged through the green bush, and then heard the clatter of horse s feet in the distance, and saw a vaqucro, mounted on a powerful mustang, toward the open country, and turning in his saddle to see if he was pursued. Jack was racing after the fellow, but we saw at a glance that the latter irt. and owned a faster horse than the ones we were riding. va* no use to go arter him, 1 Lewey said. " He vill get avay from us. Call back de dog." \\V whistled to Jack to return, and the plucky uttle animal gave up the pursuit, hut, when he joined us. we could see disgust on his expressive face, because he had not been more successful in the chase. to the old siil.ir. and wondered what the shot meant, and if the rifle bullet was an accident, or the result of a deliberate plan to rid :nan of the cares of ihc w>rKi. 01 t-i them contempt for his hat, in which he took so much pride. ty and L 33 Well, old man, ; we said, -what do you make of \. I don t make much of it," he answered, "except that I nearly lost the number of my mess. The cuss came pretty near the old man s head. An inch lower and he would have had 11 Have you an enemy in San Diego ? I inquired. I knows of. To be sure, a fellow can t get drunk, and cl- 4 to\\n of greasers, without some person getting hurted, but I did n t think any one held a grudge agin me since I allers healed all the wounds with a drink at my cxpc: i has not to some voman made de love, and den vhat you call de- asked Lewey. .as the prompt reply. " I don t bothers with female like some people." DO solution to the problem, we rode on toward the ca; there ju*t at dark, when we met peons ready to look af- . then Mr. Fitch came out, and made us welcome, and led mall roonvjfthat overlooked the garden, where we found some fruit, as comfortable as possible until the proper time for out appearance before the company. Billed in every part, and we could smell the odor of ^ed viands, and hear the shrill voices of the servants, as they called to i other to perform certain dutic-. We could note the company as it ar id the cheery tones of the captain, as he welcomed his guests, i there was the usual strumming of harps, and the twanging of guitars, occasional son sweet-voiced doncellita, who sang of and romanrr. At List then hush, and Captain Fitch, his face tality and wine, came to the room, and said that the audi ence was all ready for the best you can. boys," our host remarked. " The alcalda, and all the great people of the town are present, and count on much amusement at I took our dishes, balls, and I id the captain to the .cipal room of the 1. "id a hundred ladies and gentle- s we entered the apartment, there murmur their fans in tok oen us m. vhcn we wen , :l ,l the little 1 -imc to the Most of th Dcoole present did not know that 34 Lcwey an we had be. MI left < .lieu the ship sailed, so there was a hum Oi tcnishm . and loud whispers on the part of t ladies. Caj to the audience in a little speech, tl. rather e ig to us; even if it was frank and truthful, and, \vhi! was making ! . . . wey and I were compelled to .:.len in silence. lies and g .id the candid captai . lads have chosen to remain on from the shi;<. for a ct purpose. Now I do not believe that there i- guess what their motive is in staying h< ad of returning to : friends." >ered to each other, while the old women loo!: they did not care about the matter at all. The men jid seemed to wonder when the ea lid begin. continued the captain, after a paua r to remain in California because I, and are in love with two dark- eyed _ : igio." There was a sens. 1 . .:ig the girls. Thev smiled on us, s! their white t though tb lOl consider it a criir. .inttoma:. .er approved of the plan, ii could ju:Ig . by ti, vhile the tned, and muttered that we were locos, or . and I blushed, and thought tlia- this was more em ., light at Monte ncc with our wonderful scr; this nonsense out of their heads," continu it is not for the:. r-j some hisses on the pa-t of the you: indignation directed the captain. The man a ma ter of course, and, when I ghncc l at their wive -t blame them. " However," contir, ; "itch, " the question now is for our cntertain- me.-. 1 Is, As they grow older they will know bet- .t." 1 f s 1 ; from the men. .eat on, " I h. :re of . ic young lads who , ^iVe an exhibition ol leger >r your amusement. , way, bo, Lewc, 35 her embarrassing to go forward u . a battery of bright . for all the girls were :ieat clothes, and more one rem.i ^er cnc ^, ; to be c<> women were con cerned, aixl I ic/. of the attention which his :;sj>ired. took our places at the the lights .1, and then Lirwey ba . v.ick, ::ul, lot t!. : rest on his ch! .id, when he had three plates, all moving at once, the . the aderful thing they had ever seen, and no doubt they were correct. . of them had never been beyond the con- : rt and uneventful lives. h Jack, who ;:ig in the doorway, in company with the ser -.shouted for "three cheers." Some one had given him a drink of having its usual effect on a susceptible disposition. ok from iin, however, silenced the sailor, but Jack, our dog, hat he appreciated the call by title: :v.l energetic barks, and came to the place where we stood, and laid down, facing the audience, : person present, as though he had but little respect one except those to whom he owed allegiance. As soon as the plate trick was exhausted, I handed Lewey the balls, and he kept them in motion around his head, all in a circle, and that delighted the audience, for they uttered murmurs of B .ind Lewey s heart led with pride, as he thought of the iv . iking, and, as had not better ;tle while before m ^nd see if we could n t get a few cattle and bides as v next incident was batting the sticks, *nd this was also approve them the handkerchief t cd the remnants of the iwo pannelos -iscd in Mont- I ile we were emp . e pieces in a hat, we noticed astir at the door, and heard a I i -k, the dog, started t. and would . > the entrance had I iv- his bark i not utter a sound. The ladies looked if debating i.i their minds what the noise w ul then I saw . his to prevent him from entering the apartment. 36 Lewey and I. iiat is the me the noise . >r ? dc?i I tone, for he thought that some of !. drinking a little more oi the country xvii, ia good for their faithful attention to household duties. He spoke in Spanish, but the old .^ man knew enough of the language to understand the question, and he answered, >t of blanked greasers want to come in, and mix with the ladu gentlemen, and I m keepin em out.* we are coming in at all hazard," a familiar voi< nchos, of San Francisco, followed ly oils-looking Mexicans, pushed aside the servants, and entered the r< Sorry to disturb the company," Sanchos said, in a sneering t. I want that American boy. I arrest hi-n as a suspect, a sospecl an enemy to the State and to Mexico. He is my prisoner, in the n.iine ot the law. CHAPTER II. \NTONIO SANCHOS CREATES A SENSATION. HE CHARGES MB iNU AN h.NI-.MV Oi KM A. AX A: ALCALUV. SC.OK il JACK IS FULL OF FK.H1 AM> AGl AR- THE CALAHOZO. A LITTLE LUVi.-MAK.ING. AN OATH OP . 0\V, AND SANCHOS THREATS. A c a moment there was a death-like silence, even Captain Fitch seem- - A ing to be too much surprised to speak, and ti tlemen : ijazed at each other, at Sanchos.and m)aelf. I had been pionounced >cchoso by the biggest scoundrel in Caliiurnia, and for what reason iwas beyond my comprehension, although 1 knew enough to be awai v an unscrupulous man. was not intended to do me t that particular time, when national feel -re not in great favor with the people of the . as master of the house, was the first to recover speech, nger that was raging within him by his red face and i blanked scoundrel," the en \vhat do you mean by en- .he house without an inviiation, .. in this illy, sennr," the Mexic.i tck of ;bis right hand, and glanced around the room. "Let us have no harsh e to comrr.nm: "id not t-> ..mded. I am here to arrest t ke him into custody, and land him In tic * Uog of a greaser " ihoutc i you ! ,y a hand on that Lewc) a fut L American lad I 11 have you flogged through the town at the tail of a cart. The alcalda is here in the room, and will give the order, i ^one, and the cut-throats that you have brought with you. This is no place for yon and your companions. Depart, or I 11 command niv servants to pun- idh y Have a moment s patience, O renegade of a Yankee," Don Sanchos said, in a sneering tone, but, before he could utter another word. Su>Uh Jack, who had in some mysterious manner put out of K irdiente, and v. -:ting into a righting mood, when he would at nothing that stood before him. raised one of his hardened, poncU fists, and struck the foul-mouthe ! uirler the ear, and he U. the floor as though felled by the axe of an abattoir butcher, and then our dog, thinking that he saw a good chance to put in a little work on his own account, made a spring for the fallen man, and would have seized him by the throat, if Lewey had not run up, and dragged him away just in time to prevent serious injuries to the prostrate fellow s windpipe. The ladies were a little excited, and arose from their seats, perhaps the better to see the battle, while the men regarded the whole thing thing gotten up for their especial benefit, and would not have cared if there had been more righting, only with the proviso that knives should be drawn, and blood shed, for the sake of variety. A Mexican can endm amount of cruelty if there is a liberal flow of blood thrown in, to .uive it spice, although, as a general thing, he don t care to spill his own vital fluid nearly as well as his neighbors . 1 he several Mexicans who had accompanied Don Sanchos to the house seemed a little disconcerted at the fall of their leader, and two of them their hands on the hilts of large cuchillos, as if with the intention of using Ihem, ancl, had they carried out their intention, the Scotchman would have been cut to pieces, as he was unarmed, before his friends could go to his assistance. ., " Is there another greaser what wants to stand afore me?" demanded the old sailor, the native rum beginning to work. * If there is, just set him foul of me. I can lick a dozen of em, and not half try." " He quiet, Jack," commanded Captain Fitch. " You will make a bad matter worse by your hasty action. This is something that can i be set tled h-and-tttmbie fight The hw will reach the fellow who came here and insulted us as he has done. The alcalda must attend to him. "Yes," said the chief magistrate of the town, " I will loo!-, r.ftrr him to morrow. No one can be arrested in San Diego without my warrant. Th Ltwty and L 39 American lad shall not be disturbed. good bo; I done nothi; - so." .red the;. !>ut, whi! - be could collect . knows it fiom n: other work. md the ar. the official, or something equivalent to it. here to note the actions of the brave Califor- : Tlici little sensation at tl-ese words, for Sane . .it the weak side vxican ch -suspicion of all foreigners, and icss to believe evil of them. The bo - on shore with his companion because they had the ihought t 1 if taken I I am their I will 1 for their good behavior >e gentlemen present. l good! That lie muttered ch had lived many years in San I tf well liked by .. .it enough," cried the Mexican greaser, with a savage the Amer. nand until you are tired and thi* i he boy shall not be arrested or molested. I have said it, xican gentleman never \ This so amused Lewey that he actually turned and winked at m then v i subdued manner at the cage- who were before him. feet this will ! : >on Sanchos cr^ed, as he took kom his bosom a paper, scale I wi: icld it over his head, it in triumph, and continue-! DOW at war. Th.; 1 . : s the rep Our land i Lewey and I. <>rde of robbers, under one Fremont, wim refuses to leave our boi >r>e \vho is not for u this --ctiment. and see if 1 have authority to act as J do," an<! Dun chos handed ihe paper to the town official, and tKen gave me a. glance showed some oi the hate burning in his breast, and wnich iud neen smoth ered fora time, when he supposed there was no opportunity to revenge his fancied itched ;he scar on his hand as he looked at me, and I saw that he e a bitter enemy if he could have his own way in treatment The aicalda took the document, and, as he slowly opened it, Sanchos 5 aid, i will see that General Castro, the commander-in-chief of the can forces in this State, has appointed me as his courier and secret a_ arrest all ^fornii. That document is endorsed by the governor, and b ; ,. and his brother, Andreus Pico, the second in command. Let no one interfere with me, or cross me in my line of duty. I am ( : not in my house." cried the hot-headed Captain Fitch. " You and .ill that I care, but you can t enter my : arrest a boy on your absurd suspicions. Leave the place, or I 11 kick you and \ >f thieves out of the room." There was a murnv: to thi.- threat from the gentlemen pi andtheimpul I .lied out for three cheers for the host, but no one : ! except Scotch Jack, who gave a yell that made even Sanchos turn toward the door, in the expectation of seeing a rescuing party near at hand. s a very cautious man, and rather conservative. He knew r that devolved upon him as a law officer, and would take no risks, id not propose to butt his head against the military and civic office i the State, when the only qu( h-comber, who was of no account in the affairs of California. Therefore the magistrate did not -a his movements as he read the official document before him. The U were in an agony of impatience and asked him to hur- that they could learn the final announces !e early in the evening, that wr were in 1 and want -:urried, had great influence in swaying their j and. to a girl, : v-re with us. as f.u as sympathy was concei: :ie youn* creature aatd. looking at me with tearful and /. 41 eyes. i nk wli.it .1 misfortune it would be for him if he sho tier all." t to mair.: . omposure during the whole of the tumult, hut did 1 any too comfortable when I thought become of me in case the villain Sanchos once had it in his power to do as he pic.. old scores for the unfortunate blow of - .h hook. Lewey ^.ive me an encouraging glance once in a while, .. sure me that he would stand by my side in adversity, and J.i --.1 his white, sharp-point sco ruffian spi> 1C document," said thr alcalda at kust, i> Antonio Sanchos claims nothing that this paper docs iiim to !c can ar. that he pleases, and I must lend him requires it. Hat HO one here tonight who 1>< that the b,> vicious P<-TS;>M. an( l llc c |I; easily. He is a native of the United States, but t! QOt make h at the present time. Until we have received from Mexico an official that war !. we are bound to protect him, and shall until further or " Three cheers for de alcalda of San Diego," cried Lewey in English, and Scotch Jack joined in the howl with much spirit, for he had got hold of another glass of aguardiente, in some mysterious manner, and it was telling on him by actions and words. Me already began to weary of standing idle, i to fight some one for the love of it. He had already forgotten romises. .>p quiet, my lad," Captain Fitch said, in a mild tone. "Voumaka too much noise for a small boy," addressing Le\\ It jist dink of de occasion, sir," was the French lad s response. -I de often time dat one friend of mine is nabbed by a willain as a soi pechoso. He is good. He is noble. For him I die." m t have to do that just at present," the c. 1 ; will -tand by him and you as lon-j; as I have a shot in the locker, and ve get the boy out of thi intil the conversation ceased. } : a nnn to irry. He even lighted "tie that I rolled :.y the time he finished i , ichos document. ^id the chief official of the town, as he e.cape from his :.ims. like the spout 42 Lewey and I. whale, "the boy ifl -lean. That he admits. He does not belong to any ship. J hat al V turning to Captain Fitch. The old gent. "Very we 1 !. . l a full , in legular form," the alcalda con tin " I demand to see it," Don Sanchos cried in an impatient tone, for nut ters did nut m,,ve along .. ht they .should. lime arrives," the Ol q-iite calmly. I h.. of both boys locked up in my safe, with their Scanty ho ihe captain intern:; that presently," the alcaMa rema, ;.<. .1. -A, !ar as I am conce; u. M " But not i mlod, like a beast, hun-: "Oh, may the saints have me in their keeping, but at what time are we going to have suppei . who cared not E the 1 aml the tab:-.- I the : in. ; irked to the and male s mo. .us. "There is but one tiling to be the present time, and that we can arrive at very quit L-d up the offici-i! ,t, rotcctions, and all will be v. can : ! rnment 1. n ; its arms over : is able to take care of all who can boast of . The protections will prove tlia 1 . are enen. . . ; bi lc O f M CV ; as P r5s :- thus entitled tc th.it kind and humane t; which our con . .s bestows UL- )i\ : Into its power." Lewey looked at me in consternation. Our were or. : the Admittance. Mine in my own name, and Lew P ck unscrupulous shipping-master, and sent to th< >m house a fc Jed, to prove that two-thirds of the crew were nati . ss required, but -vhich every ship-captain and owner violated w.-ek after week, because be induced to turn their attention to the l :i treated on ihip-board. Alas, the Admittance was Z/r< /. 45 .id left us without giving cv ions a lingle thou/iit. We had not seen the clocume of the captain, some lh: on. v, Lids," cried Captain Fitch, "just tell me where the prot ; 1 when they can be seen, and then we \\ill : tirn these vagabonds out of the house." \Ve made no reply, and could not. We saw th. lie predicament, and did not feel like c; sion that we had no protections to show the alcaltla. up to view, striking it gently with his left hand. The scoundrel, quick-witted and unscrupulous, suspected the true state of the case, and there was a fierce light in his black, i continued, < French lad will go unharmed, even if lie teclion. ill-will, if he did insult me one d.i native of a friendly country, at the present time, so It is tl.< kee gringo whom I want to settle with. Ik ith t boat- hook, and here is the wound," holding up i the scar was deeply imprinted. i needed the blow," i said, as I pathi/e with the fellow. " You insulted a relative of C pnplained to me, and I punished yon a done the same thing had one of these you: <>i their mothers been ii at the rudeness of an impolite man 111 s a ripple of applause, and the la once more, to range them long my 1. quickly endeavored to counteract it. e talked enough for one evening," he is not I or the muchachos did, for those are old now is, has the boy a protection, or U h<- a DUtricul searched, and he ha let him fur- nish the Txit : ne of the men aid, look ier. 14 The saints defen vill the men never cease tall that w can have some supper," cried two or three > Ye?, tell us of your protection," the alcalda cried, turning to me. " Lie a little about it," whispered Le\\ t . J* n K ^ or : a ** Lewey and 1. L- can Iiire some von to knock de greaser in de head, and put hin le vav. Lie, if you never did afore such a ding do." I disliked to take the advice, for I thought the question might a; well be met one time as another. I did sot believe that the Mexican* lare to injure a good boy. one who had never made himself consuici- <<:ept in ducking the old ladies and men in the surf at the other Hut the people of San Diego could never have heard of such misfortunes, nd would not have paid much attention to them if they had, supposing they were accidents of the ordinary nature. I said, turning to the boy, and speaking in English, "1 will not lie to shield myself from harm." re de fool yous be," he stuttered in his eagerness. " I lie for any one, and to save mine friend, much more den vot is good for me. Do not much de truth speak now." ::or Alcalda," I said, " I throw mysell upon your generosity. I had a protection, but it is now on board the ship Admittance. I forgot that i should need any on shore. I am an American, but not a dangerot.a one." " No, I 11 swear to that," Captain Fitch remarked. " You are one of th, nicest boys I ever saw," which was complimentary, if not exactly true. 44 Then you admit, Mr. Alcalda, that I have the power to arrest the gringo as a sospechoso ? * T asked Sanchos. " I do not deny that you are authorized to imprison him if you see prop er. I shall not assist in the act, nor prevent vou. But I should adv/sti you to let him alone, and become a matriculadOA ir pi ope/ form." ver," was the surly answer. " He is my prey, and tne pain and hu miliation of this wound shall be repaid by his punishment." " 1 \\iil go security for the lad s appearance at any place, at any time, ana ..1 Captain Fitch. ;t Name the sum desired, and I 11 be responsible for it to the last peso." " It is in vain you plead," was the defiant answer. " There are no longer any ro-irts in California," shouted Sanchos, with a devilish leer of triumph on his black, hairy face. ;at do you mean ?" asked half a dozen of the most prominent men. among them the alcalda. "This is what I mean, cried the vindictive scamp, as he pulled a second paper fr< n l.U lx>som. " All the civil and criminal courts of California are closed by the order f General Caslro and Pio Piorx Martial law has been proclaimed from the north to the south. Here is the pronunciamento /. gentlemen named. WAT is now racing, and the soldier steps The . cr in his usual calm ma \ican> in the room lookeJ at each other in mute surpr, ire of cattle and horses, and no law but a tyrant s will, or o of .nis officer placed over them. . will the feast never be served ? " mir i ta!k, talk, talk, and the food is spoiling, we kr. "1 must bow to the will of the general and : said, rather reluctantly, as I imagined, after a momjni s ti. The ,:siodv of the agent of the government, a:; him as !.. i, but I shall immediately write to General v. all the facts of the case, and offering to be personally responsible tor the boy as long as lie remains under my jurisdiction. 1 \\iil . -.end th< a s; with orders to ride day and night until the general is probably in Monterey, so I can hope to g:t ar. . ten or ; .: And in the meantime the lad shall have good treatment, but he must remain in the custody of Don Sanchos, and I b .ie and careful of his welfare." , I will be very tender with the boy," sneered the Mexican scoundrel, nt all mistakes, shall lodge him in the calabozo until I re- attraction .1 not dare to commit him to prison Captain Fitch, English in his excitement, .d one of my shipmates to the calabozo!" roared S< I stands that, you khow. Here s one who will make a : ..alter what you white-livered Mexicans may do about the cr." .dcrous right fist, and let it fall upon the face of the : > . Duellos, and the fellow dropped to the il blood gushing from his nose. /en knives were drawn, and flashed in the lamp i have been numbered had not the mayordonvj of Captain Fitch s .Mislunent struck up the arms of the nearest ladrones, gav- vio- t sent him reeling from the room, and then . >sed the door, and prevented the angry men from wreaking their vengeance on the sailor. U e heard a loud altercation in the entt was hushed. of the way, and perhaps pacified with a of grog, or the promise of one. 46 Lewey and I. In the mean time Lewey and I had remained passive spectator of the scene. could not hope for success in a contest \\ith men who would have liPect the job of cutting us to pieces at the bidding of their leader. Had we been armed with rifles and pi could have driven the crowd of robbers out of the house in confusion, for the not the men to stand before cold lead and good in arks nv. only our pocket-knives, and they were useless in the presence r- ( breeds, who knew how to handle long and keen cuchillos from their child hood. Under these circumstances we concluded that it was l.cs t >le, although it cost Lewey a groan as he ranged al me, and whispered, .t much now, and you go must, but don t f_-ar. I sti< : nebber kave mine dear ami," and Mr. Fitch also took occasion to . a low tone, .ike no resistance, Thorn. The scamps have got us \\\ \ and can do as they please, but no one shall harm you r.t present. I am well -ral Castro, and will write to him all the facts of the case, and secure your liberation. He will soon want some moiu-y, and not a dollar shall he get from me unless he complies with my ; "Senor Alcalda," asked Sanchos, during a moment s pause, "is the boy my priso:. s, if you choose to take him/ was the answer. " But I had much rather you let him go. I assure that you that lie is harm!. known to all o: ;hat I am the best judge," was the sullen reply, ar. then the : rubbed the scar on his hand, and motioned for li; that boy, and tie his hands so that he can t us ven. The ruffian were only too glad to obey. They appro.it hod. v. narrow strips of rawhide in their hands, but, just as :e about to bind me, Jack, the dog, thought that things had go 1 that Id interfere. As one of the men attc: secure my arms, the animal i;K |. xv ith an an sharp teeth in the neck of the ruffian <>wer of his ja " Maldito perro do i is the exclamation. for his long knife, but. before he could lay his 1 . i. grasped Jack by the neck, and choked him until he released his Lewey and I. hold, si: e French lad hcM the stru. end ; . houted Sunchos. "It is one more i aga boto, You shall be revenged for this, as well my inj;i: murmured the young ladies present, ai no doubt but th.it they did pity me, for their < , it the cruel treatment I was receiving. and held them behind my back, \v! ,>>n, tied my hands in such sh.ipe that I < ut into the flesh, and were very painful, ; .-) see that I was suffering, for I would m>: such a triumph as they counted upon. \:\(\ that he would like to punch the he rue, but, as Captain Fitch warned hi; j be content, and grumble in French his dee] ;re. ive everything to me," the captain said. " I know these scov r than V can manage them after a fashion. I will see :he calabozo, and you shall find a good brcakf.i.-t at asked one of the vaqueros, turning to Sanchos for , reply. " Lead the prisoner aloru that he does not escape." " Me gi- I no lose sight of mine friend." "We lin Fitch remarked. " I shall n- r lock and kc He his guests, and said simply, :all be a 1 .; short time." il groan, and looked the consterr t i, " I shall ord- the supper to he \ request my friend, the i was ,} 1C - , ., 9 M b(: th hree cher e wao muttered a tt tbe captain s ccnsicii I T huneer. 50 Lfwey and I. Two ot k>.e dirty greasers took my arms so that I could not bolt and make a ran ior it, and, with the triumphant Sanchos leading the way, and a guard of iour or live men, Captain Fitch and Lewev following in my the house where we had expected so much and ito the street. A dozen or twenty Indians and low, half- breed Mexicans were hovering near the door, waiting for the feast to be over so .he remnants would be turned over to them. They only s as, I the captain how much longer they would have to hunger for the -old viands, the scent of which they were patient! . , at the 0] windows and doors ? : them to be q..iet for a little while longer, and re w mid be no lack of food, and so passed on. lie ,uid it was policy on his part to be civil, for he j j ust then. * enemies as possible. re dark, but the houses weix and in some of them fan We could hear the twanging of guitar.., the notes of an o and once in a whi.e the i to amuse her auditory b) a r^ng 01 sentiment and I knew where the calabozo \\as situated for I had seen it many times : in town. : id . out the village, \\ -r ten dollars, j Img u> the amount > 1 commit: , ng, his bright colored scrape thrown over his shout ing to a minion who appeared to be in hi -nee. T j,: Mother Carlos, the n,-\t irone in California. - ere concocting some schenv: be- n them, but what it was I could r, Bttt I ..uspcctal it boded nv : . if the villains had their Ivcd at the prison the kec .ibscnt, and tlu- <>,,!> 15 of life about the premises : two or three inker* Indians, who h db en arrested :" I Wngr the peace, and the next day .voul 1 be flog vork on the roan 1 , just according to their pccuv. Som men were despatched in sections to find the keep er w v, . , ny with 1 -ndinir n fandan-o. or other entertainment, and it v, in iiOW oeioic the old fellow and girl could be hunted up. When he d chai . was the richest person in S mon be had a point to carry. u," the old Mexican said to those who la tovered his whereabout-. " \Vhy did you no , lor me ? I cry your mercy, :, and open the door. Whom do you wish to I ia hi.* crime ? Not murder, I hope." \Vi>j than that," reported Sanchos. u It is for being an enemy of our ;us republic. He is a traitor to Mexico, and his doom cert.r l proved before a drum-head court-mai I may all the enemies of Mexico perish," the old jailor said, lie had formerly served ia the army, and entertained a great opinion of the republic, and the responsiblity of his charge. I, his only chi! the heavy door, and I into the building, while the keeper struck a light with Mint a yil 1 . hen found, the wick picked up until it smoked vile!;. ;->ok at me, and his astonishment pressed or. at the devil do you bring this boy here for?" he dem.indr bave seen him a hundred tin. lew years. I ha\ ne dinner, because I v. in com- !e is no enemy to Mexico. If we are at war wit our great republic does not measure weapons with a mere much \e him away, and God go with you. ice, you old fool," Sane!. ; a stern tone. " I am word here is law. The alcalda has cx.i: papers, and pronounced them correct. There is no power i choose to exercise. Lock the loy up, and if he escnpc." his true. Sen or. nthor. th naturali/ -d ritizen of California, for the benefit were of some magnitude. " I i- -at it is "Then the more shame for C daughter, rather a pretty wirl. to wh-.m I.- little at tention, regardless of my situation I th - I detected him squee* Lcwfy and I. tng her hand, when no one was looking, thus taking a mean advantage of me, knowing, as he did, that I could not rebuke him before the crowd. " Hold your tongue, girl," growled Saneh :ro is a sol dier, a patriot, and knows what lie is doing, and what is (or the best inter ests of California. We want no spies or traitors here. Long live the re public, and no mercy to los gringos," the fellow shouted, and his followers took up the cry, and the drunken Indians in the prison, thinking thai was staring them in the face, uttered howls of fear, and begged for pardon. ihe military authorities order me to keep a poor boy confined, I sup pose that I must obey, but it is a maldito shame," and the jailor cut tht lashings that bound my arms, and then led the way to a small room, will grated window, and, for a wonder, tolerably clean. At least it was weK ventilated, and there was not such a bad smell as many Mexican prison* can boast of. Not in there," cried Sanchos, seeing that I was to have an apartment o myself. " Let the sospechoso share the calabozo with the rest of the m- . He must receive no favor at your hands." " But the prisoners arc only Indians, and they are drunK," j jailor. " So much the better. Put the spy with them, and keep him there antil I call for him. On your head be his care," and once more he gently rubbed his scar, and motioned for me to enter an apartment that was hot and dirty, and reeking with a stench that almost ma!j me sick. The drunken Indi- re wandering around the room, and howling at intervals, for the pur pose r: ng their sense of grief at the punishment they were likely to have doled out to them on the morrow, when arraigned before thealcalda lx justice. All of them were naked, except breech-cloths, and, with their hair hanging over their shoulders, and wild, black eyes, they did not look fitcompany for even the most desperate of white criminals, much l.oy who had been reared with some regard for Christian principles, and felt degraded to have to associate with such scum as was now before him. ; ed the young irl, who began to take more of an interest in me, all owing to Lewey s interferem : t pressure of the band, " you will not insist that the muchacho shall occupy the same room as these wild beasts? looked at Sanchos lx :t the Mexican was blind to her blandishments, and deaf to her entre.:iv.s. He bad resolved that I should suffer all the humiliations it was in his ^uwer to Lewey and I. inflict, to >e j^ of the boat-hook, and nothing seemed to m I have not offered you monev," Captain Fitch now said, addre* Sanchus, -lor the reason that 1 know a h.gh-toned and hones can neither be bribed nor bought." m of contempt and doubt from Lew.y, a sniff from the young g , of her head, as though she knew that Captain Fitch was stating it he did not believe, just for the purpose of accompl.shmj :i " continued the captain, B< ng to Sanchos, :.t. Let the boy occupy the vacant i dollars tomorrow morn senor.lu- ith the Ind .s the firm rejoinder; , an cl his fellows coi They had come to San Diego to make money, under the kadersbi] lonio, and here was the first char id seen v at the expense of the residents. They did not like it. elves in decided terms on the subject. "1 -engeance, b more, and plenty of them, and. n< the villa! to turn it :hatheh, uke . H : i a y in the hold which he had on the men. money. ed revenge much more, l.ut thought, af: :thecoul both, So he spoke in a co: ^M h .ire to offend so good a friend to California as Senor . , us the lii ty dollars, and the boy can remain a prisoner i. I spoken well? "turning t \er*. i the unanimous growl, and Lewey once more sque the leased at his attentions, and c. him .andsome face, and that went a gr favor She was not the oa rho had been captivate ,>ngue, for, Frenchman-like, he cot when he did not fe -The money shall be paid tor Sanchos quesUon. " Come to my house and obtain the pesos fast I could only thank the ca;,uin : then as the Indians continued to howl forth their complaints am Lewey and /. the jailor gave the lamp in keeping of his daughter, took the end of a stout lariat, which must have been used for such cruel purposes, rushed into the gan to thrash the inmates over every part of their bodies Vu most convenient, -heads or haunches, it did not matter much to the d a quiet life, and was determined to have it, unless >ut. The Indians dodged from side to side, but all of them received a liberal allu s and > w hen silence was at length commanded, bleeding bru!- Miserable brutes retreated to a corner, glowered at :d were told to keep quiet for the rest of the night, or there would .other raid in their midst, and more stripes. The Mexicans looked on, and laughed at the exhibition. They rather enjoyed it, for they had no pity for Indians, or any one else, and, when -tored, and Lewey had squeezed the girl for the last time. ,, r om- - would come and see me in the morning, a coarse blanket was thrown into my cell by the jailor, a pillow of straw by the votm- n \ r \ .ts locked on me, and I was left to my own reflection, wi?h a pipe, tobacco, and a few matches. I filled the pipe, lighted it, curled down 1 in the darkness thought of my desperate situation, and :1 how I was to escape from it. Again did I reproach myself for . and casting my lot amid strangers, but all through the :e, 1 did not utter a murmur against Lc ; ;a d id fell asleep at last in defiance of the fleas. it was sunrise, the Indians were quiet, and I could hear t voice of the .lighter, as she moved about the prenv ind probably thinking of Lewey, his hand-squce/irJ and t. -ices. ae to me until nearly seven o clock, and then the girl unlocked the door, and looked into my prison. chico," I said, -have my friends been here to see me this " she answered. "There is time enough for them, .ou this fine day ? " .e me enough water to wash in, and some to drink? 1 I asked. into your cell, will you swear by the holy iuc-stion set me to thinking, Ived l <> ke firm, ar, nothing that would in the least CO Ltwey and 7. p lom jse : I remembered the previous evening how Lcwev had obtained an I, and lie I I said, u the saint. -n in ou; ~ted, and D and a heretic, but a just one, so must not disdain the f ul . ; orld. Do not nwk shall break it if you come near m- She tossed her head in a coquettish mar: white, even teeth, but, as she did so managed to it you will promise me one thing ii 1 U with the lie it, senorita," I < I take no more than a single that you will not, ai sh*lU::r. Ah, u ; *<* l sl He is so honest and good." then answered. *,. ! .uitiful lady like yourself. I I will cor .,;k for half an hour. If he should return, .edbyalv : a prisoner, he wo,, self with two, or at the n S, four. : .uiion, wl. a much mon you, and not near!;, be contented with one, and think himself fortunate. .it to make of ;. itcr, dulce. n around her wai.-t. an-1 stol n half a dozen I hen the not fun she 4, and he -od as i ck and shoulders with a deep -he ran a -A But after a few mon a calabash to wash in. looked as if rut from a second-hand grain bag, and a cracked cup to drink from. Then she left T and /. me alone for a while, to make my toilet, and, even before I had completed v.e young lady came to my room to shake up the blankets, and to tell me that coffee would be served in a little while, and, if I wanted anything more substantial, I would have to wait until Captain Fitch sent food from i her breakfast would consist of tortillas and fruit, am suppusc.i I was not accustomed to such slender repasts. )u will let me drink my coffee in company with yourself and father I should not care for much else," 1 whispered, as she accidentally passed me. Look here," the girl cried, as she suffered my arm to remain around her .d gazed steadily into my eyes, " I am afraid that you are a bold, man, and I do not feel safe with you in the calabozo all You forget the Indians," I remarked. " There are three o them in the room." e asleep, and the door is locked," was the prompt reply. 41 There is no fear. Your padre will soon arrive," I urged. n minutes as yet, and if I should scream who could hear ..e saints protect me, but it is a fearful thing to be in the house all alone with a heretic, a man who does not believe in the church, the holy n, and a candid confession." Y"u can lock me up in the ce l. I swear to you that I will not resist if disposed to do so. I am a good lad, and mean no harm to any one," I asserted, in a positive manner, for I did not know but that she ittle timid, on account of the treatment she had received, and uissed her but six times, in the most innocent manner possible. said, in a determined tone, " I will not turn the key on you. I think you bad, but I remember that a prisoner is always entitled to pity, so I can keep you at arm s length, and expend some of my sympatln unhappy condition at the same time, for, do you know, I think I Sanchos means to have you shot, and, if you should be killed, I declare to the saints that I would cry my eyes out. I heard the miserable tell his ns that if you a bullet would end your career. e than you. I lien- is QO tell- : to death, and, as such M today ; me just once for friendship :kc me when I to count them. 1 know t .-at you are bad," the jailor s daughter remarked, but she wfy and I. effort to break away from my arms, although I coul . the door, as though on the watch fin the : >, of her father. * Oh, what a miserable life I should lea-! my husband." the girl remarked suddenly. This was coming to close quarters, and getting a little more s , than I bargained for. I had not thought of the little girl as a wife. In I had never spoken to her until the night previous. She seemed disj ish matters to a crisis, and win me in an off-handed manner, if it le. * Why do you think I should not make a good husband ? " I aske- tie nettled at the insinuation. She blushed a rosy red, and held down her head, as she quietly answered, ause you want to kiss me all the time, and, if we were man:- v too much attention to other girls instead of your wife, whom >ed saints gave you, sanctioned by the priest. Oh, I am afraid wl; think you would break my heart, for I know that you could not be Q never are. They don t care to kiss their loving little mau . men who are not their wives." It seemed to me that the girl was doing the wooing, and that I :nyself en :<>re I knew it, unless I was very cautious. Americans," I said, as soon as I could think of something to say. ike the best husbands in the world. They are constant, always : and loving. It is rarely they flirt." " Tl .iger girl cried, as she put up her lips to be ki.v marry no one but an American, and you are one." a little more than I had expected, and I did not know was to extricate myself from the difficult position in which I found ir. ,-d. for, as a general thing, I would not advise prisoners in a ike an enemy of the jailor s daughter, if it :- her as a friend. There are many chances for her to make D un comfortable one if so disposed. All this I knew, so did not feel lik he girl s self-respect, or her maidenly pride, if I could avoid it. marriage was out of the question, for, if I was to wed ai jke little Anit.T. of R.inche Refu^io. to whom I had pledged cfore. But the yotinir lady who was now stan. did fied to keep her in ignorance until I k-it my prison a free man, or was removed to some ot! framing some masculine storv in mv mind, so as to keep the girl good Lewey and /. tempered and friendly, I heard heavy footsteps on the street, near thp calabozo. " Go in your cell," the young lady whispered. " It may be Don Sanchos, and if he should see you free would not like it. He might think that 1 had allowed you to make love to me, and that is always injurious to a poor girl s reputation." She pushed me into the cell, locked the door, and then unfastet outer one, and threw it open. I heard a person enter the prison, ami s distinguished the sound of Don Sanchos voice, asking in gruff ton*.* about the manner in which I had passed the night, and if I was safely CO ilabozo. ,v should I know?" answered the girl. "I have much to do with out attending to the prisoners. The boy may escape for all that I care. I am sure that he will give us enough trouble before he is dischar Here, t.ike the key, and look in at him if you want to, but see that he does uot rush past you, and go clear." fear of that," was the confident answer. " lie is unarmed, and I :ny knife, and can cut him to pieces before he gains the d. This was good news for me, for I had thought for a moment of making a bold strike for liberty, but now I concluded that I had better i .ere . and take no risks. The ruffian took the key from the girl s hand, unlocked the door. and. rs ked up from my reclining position, pretending to be just awakei* ice of Sanchos, and in his right hand he held a long knif if prepared to use it in case I threatened violence. I believe that the scamp would have rejoiced had I t>] that moment, for he could have killed me easily, but I remain- and did not speak, as he regarded me with savage joy in his dark eyes. i are still here," he said. I did not speak. "C.-: i I an oso, that I should not be spoken to?" was the . " Do- of a Yankee, do you know who I am ? r from my lips, for I knew that if I Vv.ild say re than if I kept silent. ;> into the c;-ll. and Heaven knows what his in- .ve thought how pleasant it would be to d : into nv. end his plan f forever, or he may have desired to test me, and see if I and his wild threats. But, before Sanchos could further insult and Lewey and /. 59 ,r return- he entered the room, his dai ter E \ her hand on Sanchos shoulder, and pulled > right in i . . prisoners must taess, and in tlu main roor /.her ; h is the ! H to be pushed from the cell, bir. if he ! old jailor put in . .ion. . ;sed and lock is the kev . ointed in my tliu.<:tion several time-. !: to ;m tlie importance o .t. and se i he took i the girl IMH . !:er . st of mff lie keyhole. "Am I not to have a: to c : Am I to be left to st.irve "f the to. ,c old man. "Your breakfast is to come from the h, The cooks of ho. M . *ili not let you ! ; prisoner -.lly when they for the enemic .r,l not those who seek rather re: onsiderin- all that . and not those who sccl. : supposed she kn> I like me lover i f the cell where the In heir profound slumbers, ie aid of a piece of rc.i to the right and i ^ed by Leivey and I. the sound of blows, and at last the whole gang of vagabonds were into the street, and from thence to some court, where the alcalda, I presume, passed sentence on the lot, for they did not return to the calabozo, so the place was free from their yells and stench the rest of the day. The young lady removed the few dishes, and was singing a little for her own ami. cement, and provoking me to wish that I was with her, when I heard a well-known bark, and into the room bounded Jack, and following . but he did not have in his hands the breakfast that I stood so much in need of. asked the girl, as Lewey entered the room. "I was in hopes that I should never again see you. Look at my hand. Gracias dios, but last night I thought you would squeeze it all out of shape, and the j>o- brecita muchacho, the sospechoso, looking at us all the time. Von > hombre, and I believe you to be bad, very bad." Confound the girl. She had used the same words to me. Did she have a regular formula for all the young men she flirted with ? " Ali, c.iro mio," that bad friend of mine exclaimed, "how could I help pressing the smallest and most delicate hand in all San Diego?" And thirn the impudent lad put an arm around her well-developed wai>t, :ul kissed her lips a dozen times or more, before he stopped to take breath. .1 little more than I could endure. It was bad enough to be a prisoner, but to be confined in a cell, and peek through a large keyhole, and s friend kissing a pretty girl, one whom you thought a litllc spoony i^;lf, was altogether too much. I kicked at the door, and yelled li!;e one of the drunken Indians the night before. flouted indignantly, "is that the way you show your f: ship ? ne ! Or are you lost to all sense of honor ? " Instead of replying, and desisting from his detestable exhibition, the Freru ly winked one of his blue eyes in my direction, and then re newed ul, confound the girl, she seemed to like it, for I her murmur in very low tones, .; iaiI you are a bad man. I don t believe your friend would be ich improprieties." the little coquette. She was repeating the very words to u she had used to me only an hour before. >iod man like me," the most perfidious of friends , not the same devoted lover I would be. He kisses a q;irl, ar n- r. I never forget the sweet face of a women I love," and then Lewey and I. 61 or some more, and the sight nearly drove me frantic. Once more I kk; . . 1 yelled out a strong pro- France. I cried, "let me out of this so that 1 can \ uncn your head. Is this the friendship that you profess for me? " kc ia Kngiish, so the girl did not understand me, but, even if I hat ied her in the native tongue, I don t believe that she would ha. any attention u> me, for the lady only clung the closer to Lewey, an i to lisp, lould be fearful if you were my husband. I don t believe thv i would be true and constant. You might flirt with other women, and break mv h This was a little too much for human endurance. I wondered how m.iny more men she had spoken to in the same way, and with the like tokens of e the heavy oak door, studded with spike-heads, a desper ate kick, and said, in a tone of deep contempt, ih ! don t you believe a word she says, Lewey." i attendin to dis ding," was the consoling reply. " You attends to your business, and I look arter mine. You keeps cool, and goes to sleep, and not roar like von calf vot is hungry," and then the wretch took another .nd squeezed the girl a little more energetically. " I am one of those men," said the scamp, speaking to the girl in Span ish, that loves once and forever. With such a little beauty as you for a \\ife what more could a man desire? I should not care to look on a: it you, to kiss no one but you, and thus we could go through life, hand in hand, and never a word of dissention between us." .M not repress a c;roan at hearing such heartless lying from a young man who had French blood in his veins, and, consequently, thought Lint and becoming to make love to every pretty face that crossc ! > different from me that I wondered why he had not learned a more correct course of conduct. 14 O you wretch," I cried through the keyhole, "stop your yarns and love- . You make me sick with such stupid lies," while the young girl seemed to place full confidence in all he said, and actually put up her lips for an extra k the pretty words he had uttered. be said, " I could love you much better than your friend. He is ocolii t.in?. and pays no attention to the young girls that h meet Thus w.is ^tor> -teller as the Frenchman, I thought the pair well matched- 62 Lewey and /. " He is an Americano," Lewey said in a tender tone. " He belongs to a country dat is cold as its religion. The Americanos are like ice, which you never saw, and can form no idea of. Vhen dey talk of love a fire is needed to heat their words or they would freeze. But a Frenchman is as de sun at noonday, and as such he alvays remains." " If you keep on that way much longer I shall need no breakfast," I exclaimed. " As it is, I m sick at my stomach hearing such trash as you utter. Let up on the love-making business, and get me out so that I can have a share." " Mine friend/ asked Lewey, "do you dink I m doing all dis to please mineself ? " Well, it looks confoundedly like it as far as I can judge," I answered. " At least you might have the decency to get out of the range of the key. hole, so that I cannot see all that is going on before me. Now I under stand the value of your friendship. It is to kiss pretty girls, and keep me locked up, so that I can t have a show. For shame on you. I would not treat you in such a scurvy manner." " If you dinks I puts mineself to all dis trouble for de sake of de fille you is mistaken much, Lewey said. " It is for your good dat I does all dese mean din^s," and then he. kissed the girl again, because she expected it, and the fellow did not seem to shrink from the task, as though it was a Ac one. is kissing the girl going to help me ? " I asked. "You vill va>t and see. All in good time. I does much for mine ami, ind I gets no danks for it, so it appears." Just at this moment two peons appeared with a basket that contained a pot of hot coffee, some bread, and cold meats, all sent from the kitchen of Captain Fitch. The lovers separated, and the girl took the key of my :nd unlocked it, and then Lewey threw his arms around my neck, and embraced me. . ;rk as hard as ebber I can for you," he said. " Ah, vot vould not I do for yoi: not feel good-natured, so failed to respond to his greeting as readily as I i : done. I had seen too much. Besides, the girl was dis tant and cold, and seemed like a different person from the one I had joked with in the morning. She treated me more like a prisoner, as though re to show her power. " Now eat your breakfast," my friend said, " and den ve vill smoke our pipes, and talk of de dings dat vill interest us. You is in a bad vay, but ve Lt~i. t -y and /. 63 tor de best. I s is a vile man, and vants your life, -,-n Fitch send a courier oi f clis bery ni lie vile to Gen* ; ia do de same, iiut drink your coffee, and not ill vie time." I had not spoken a word, except to the dog Jack. The animal was so de . to see me that I had bestowed more attention on him than Lewey. cr, as I was hungry, and the breakfast was a good one, I soon fin* ished it, then lighted my pipe, and prepared for a long talk. -.ericano must go into his cell again," the girl said, as soon as the peons had departed with the basket and dishes. It is against the rules of the prison for any one to be here, except the keepers and ra." iked, and whispered, ive her to me. I understand vomen, and you don t, You bellevei .ou. But me, bah! I discounts ninety per cent, and den - a little profit." He turned to the girl, and put on a sweet smile, as he sai n y friend must go into de cell, I shall follow, for I have much to tell him. Think, caro mio, of locking us both up, vhen ve can be more com- !)le here, and we swear d.u no effort shall be made to esca The . .w that there w.is no chance for a further .inge a few words with him while in th^ >m, but none if lock-,-! up, readily consented to break the rules, :hat if any one should come to the door I could run to my ;he key turned, and was not to come out until all passed. Phil suited us, and we readily agreed to it, for we did not know when Sanchos would again drop in to see how I was enjoying my imprison ment. r our pipes were lighted, "you vill understand ve to de girl. - ! ta .! nothing of the kind." I as- ou listens to me in patience, and not sco\\l like a pi- . In de iust place, you is IK: " Confound you, I know that well enough without \,- DAT arc some peoples dat lias to ! c : den (ley M.. ,<1 much. Now out ol > bery I can understand all that. Cut how is it to be accomplice I asked eagerly. Lcu ty and j. , here comes in de finesse of de vise man. You may have noticed d<it I m ike a little love to do fille ? " it puff of smoke from my pipe was the onlv answer. . you .Lit 1 does it. She now dinks .:al I vants : ry her. 1 let lu-rdiak so cb ich, but I is no iou. I is a French man, and knows bery veil vot 1 talks ^buut. Tonight dar is one big fandan- in do town, and de jailor go see it, ana dance. All de old men do dat, and tie older dey am de more dey like it, if dey has a bonne rille to squeeze for de partner. He no hab vifc, and he sure to go. I tell de daughter to stay at home, and I come see her, and court her much. Den \ promise her ebeiyding if she let mine friend out, and siie vill. I knows de vomen, and jii.^t voi dey vill do. If she no consent, 1 take U-. key, an I unlock de door, and a it how sh.ill we get away from the town : 1 i kol. jber you minds. I take cares of all d.it. Vbnct >ut of dis place, and Sanchos and his gang no lookin on, I find de \v. . \ ou s all to me, and no hint to dc girl dat I am not a good boy, and means all dat I says. Ah, mon ami, I does much for your sake, and many disa- >!e dings. Does Captain Fitch know of your designs ?" I asK s. He talk vid me all dis mornin on de subject, and he laugh and Nice man dat, and see groat vav ahead." " Hut where are we to go if I make my escape ? " I questioned. le hide-house." " Why, that is the very place they would seek for us," I remonstrated. I know, and Captain Fitch know," was the con ,\er. it hide-house Sanchos and his men no dare to come if I tch Jack, what will he have to offer on thr sul.j.Ti ? " I asked, was important that the master of the hide-house should PC with us, and help protect us. Dis mornin he vake up all sober, and den him iig drink of agu.inliento. an-1 tt-11 him t ^ !> ! beach, an-1 _; t all us toni-ht. ari l he sw-nr d.if he vi!l blow i tscr ^ near him. De povi-rnnvn* is bourr . to City of ail f..ri-i-ners in case of var, and dar is vhere vc vill . 1 trm> > or is it a bit of Im ain Fitch say dat, and not me. He know eberyding, so I pse it Lew* is true. H : ne ding more. Do alc.i . here in do country, .uid d.it h h.is sent . dat ve has announced our detcrmi:, Uat is bad, but one oath dat you no iuie:. p much no hurt 1C, much less you and me. Ve forget him iu a 1. \Vliat does Captain Fitch advise on the subject ? lie vink one eye, and say it is good for us; much belle: v by de rascal Sanchos, and his men. DC alcnKU co: arternoon, and nuke you take de oath, and sign de paper. Only dink, in a . be full-grown greasers. Yes, ve must uk .r, and best ve can." The n.itli you mean, Lewey. 1 5, I s pose. I swear all de day if dey vant me. do, nviv -, de party vot is strongest vants j .d den . :il hab n< I th> matter over for a while, and at last concluded to je us tiie preliminary for full citizenship, which COti lished lime, il we were persistent in our demands for th \ i 1 M I I . At the same time there was one .vlvantage in being mati; \\ e could *>xhii)it our certificates in any part of Cilifornia. and take up a section of land, five m!l- s square, if we desired as much, and set le on it, and, after time, receive a clear title from the .\K vernmcnt. The s mafic were the usu-il ones. element on the -.tin and tattle. California, at the tin. on. an- .-:n away were the best in the world, r.- or tlu- Anvrican. with tablelau .ne on thousands of n>ds that was for m.. rid the onl\ over- it there v. not si; selected, but the United ,me of t : n tlie Ameri : ( >f n, > .? i hen .iatorf 66 Lewey and I. hungered fur farms which did not belong to them, and they scooped in all that they could lay their hands on, and proved by and perjury that they possessed old Mexican grants, and sometimes the commissions \ them. All of these things, or, rather, the advantages, passed through my mind, and I said that I would matriculador, or sign what the alcalda required. I had hardly given my consent, when we heard some one at the door, and I darted into my cell, and the girl locked me up, and then gave Lewey a kiss before she admitted the new-comer, who was no less a person than the al calda, accompanied by Don Sanchos, the latter to see that I took the oath of allegiance in proper form, and signed my name to the same. Lewey exchanged a few words with the new-comers, and then the official ordered the young girl to unlock my cell, and cc nduct me to his presence. Sanchos scowled at me as I entered the room, and looked the disappoint ment that he appeared to feel, for h had not supposed I would take the steps I did to secure myself from his persecution. To be sure, he could keep me imprisoned until General Castro was heard from, but he had no power to have me shot or hanged, without a formal trial, and that he was not disposed to do, as he knew nothing could be proved against me, and his of my being a spy must fall to the ground. Well, muchacho, the alcalda said, " I understand that you desire to matriculador. The Senor Fitch thinks you had better do so, and I can see no objections." 44 Let him understand one thing," interrupted Sanchos, with an evil glance. " If he registers he will be liable to military duty, and have to serve with the Mexican army if called upon, or be treated as a traitor to the State/ .11 have to act against the forces of my own country ? " I asked, a little staggered by the information. "Yes, just as freely as a Mexican-born citizen," was the alcalde s -r. "Vot care you?" whispered Lewey, in English "You no shoot veil i to harm any one. Me ! Oh, I swear to anydin^ ven it suits me to do. Let us get out of dis. and trust to de good luck for de next time. You hear me make de love to dc girl, and dell her strange Veil, dat is vorse much dan takin* one stupid oath, vot no one cares W." : at are you sa Led Sanchos, speaking lo the free-thinking French boy, suspicious of words which he could not underst " I tell him dat I vill take dc oath at de same time," was the prompt aa- Lf.vey and /. 67 wcr. " Vol care I? A Mexican is as brave and good as a Frenchman or Yankee any ti: Sanchos was not quite satisried with the explanation, but he grunte approval of the sentiment, while the a! ourt of justice th.it the words were .:>;jroval in any part of the world. 11 take the oathj I said, but resolved to make a mental reser ople should be injured by the course which I wai life. Kluced his papers, and then 1 hands, swore that we would bear allegiance to Mr do all thai could to confound her enemies. .r.i, and the deed is done," the official said. The jailo ter produced pen and ink, after some little trouble, showing that seldom used at the calaboz< the titk d prisoners, and then the alcalda arose, and out to the new candidates for citizenship, or a> soon as we had ir names to the document he did so. -May you defend the honor of Mexico as rear vhe courr v lich you formerly belonged." the official said, an lid not do so with much gusto. I the as a good joke, and even smiled and winked ut the girl, , it no one was watching him. u concluded, Senor Al -ked Sanchos, as soon official had finished his pretty little speech. ..f his thin, dark hand. I few woids, for they are important," and the scoundrel .id then caressed the scar on 18 full of meaning. "The i >n- \ CO, They hav uladors. ,;cred under the laws of the State and COUP. ,. certainly, senor. Hut what then ?" 1 the alcalda, look nor Alcalda. Read one more paper t the honoi not deem ,esent it last night, wlu : certain I suspected j *cn place, and wished for the result." The alcalda opened the document, and from it we learned that the trusty LL . /. and 1> i Antonio Sanchos w.is empowered t- gather the a:.!e bo. lied Mexicans he might (It lect, enroll them in the army, and forwaid them to pos> linst the treacherous los Americafl tunner. \Ve s.i\v tiie trap into wi.ich wo had f.illen, but it r retreat. Tiie fellow had drawn us along for his own pur poses, and now we were in his power more linn ever, lor the State \s irtia! law, and Sanchos was its representative in San Diego, all civil cour - -t aside for the time being. >t take the boys away from liiis place, would you?" the returned the paper to Us owner. this document correct?" Sandu :ut heeding Ike question, and tapping the paper with the fingers of his maimed hand. " It is," was the quiet answer. 1 you acknowledge the power that it gives me?" the scoundrel demar. re throw n > impeilinients in your course. You are su preme hrro, un.lcr martial law. I must obey, or "resign my office," tha alcalda said. " l"i. ill not do, for I forbid it, and, if you should persist, I will ;w of ihe State, and forward you to Monterey for trial. -.in*! me." -silent, lie saw that he had an unscrupulous vil!.. deal with, and d-_sired to save his own life, and that of his friends. 1 e- .he alc.d.h was a rirh man, and knew wh.it it v;as to be squc . te. He did not desire to los>- an\ thing he hekl most dear just for t!,- rin^oboys. I U- \voii!d h.ive he! Langer to himself, JUftt because he was naturally kind- ; < aptain Filch, \\ho really had an interest in us. At this i:: jailor returnei to his charge, bavfig li-e:i . I the morning with the neighbors, and to him the military agent ad i , up, and see that they do not escape. I shall In.; responsible for I ," Sanchoa said, pc>i;,!ii, . to impr . a little anxious - hr-;t tinr- during the id your f: the Mexican army. In d) have in i" .tiding you to headquarters, at /Vrro- :i*ni I. 69 ur in all < . ltd hand. . think thai you \\ti . <>u in- upon me at San Francisco ? ^mchos. * Di I led my hair, and landed my head, in the i i I wish that I had been ten times more rude." was the frank of the French lad. \Ve let you off too Another chance you shall not escape so you threaten me, you French dog?" asked Sanchos, and. .ied a blow at the Hushed face of m\ : but \.< . icd on the dark v. ..- : -e fallen had he not caught at the I .ut .: in h.id recovered him.vjli". He reach i:ed in the : iend to the he nt if the ;. i( lier countryman tad in-, loun, so i.,.t lie coold D lici lather, <:k the muchacho in his cell, and put the ,\ey in i d) not there will be murder commit .e .situaf did the . Aild, maildened Frenchman, and dragged him ..ml then the jailor tunu ,ie for llie ti . -s uttering fearful vhcn the proper time arrived, and thus cursing left I .. Aith his associates. the fellow left the prison, in com pany wiih the a. I could vip him vid one hand, if he no use de knife. You know it vas his bruddcr Carlos dat fire at is on dc vay to San Diego. I hear em talk it obcr, at. :;cbos scold no s!ji>.-. t. and it vnuld hab been much bet- drr." I t! , yet did not express my sentiments in the manner. Lewey and /. you trust to me," tli2 confident Lewey exclaimed. " I do much for you. I eben make love to de girl, and you see how I succeed ven I com mences. Oh, yes, I throws mineself avay for you," and the boy sighed, then lighted his pipe, and we had a good smoke, and went to sleep for an hour or two. During the afternoon Captain Fitch called to see us, and advised us to be patient, for he had great hopes of buying our discharge from military service, and, when Lewey hinted to him that we intended to effect our es- sape that very night, and make the best of our way to the hide-house, he did not offer any objections, except to say that he could not furnish us with horses, as such an act would be equivalent to bringing down the wrath of <:hos and his gang on his head. We would have to travel on foot, and then he recommended that we get on board an American vessel, and leave the coast as soon as possible. He would forward our money to any point we might designate, or give it to us in doubloons at the hide-house, pro vided we succeeded in reaching the place in safety. This we agreed to, and then the gentleman promised us some dinner at five o clock, and left us. He sent the food, as agreed upon, and, after he had partaken of all we wanted, we lighted our pipes, and waited for darkness. ould hear the old jailor dressing for the fandango, and urging his Jiter to go with him, but she complained of a dolor de cabeza, and so excused herself. Then, with directions to keep an eye on the prisoners, the old fellow ambled off, and the young girl commenced singing, to show that she had her own thoughts for company, and did not desire anything better. "Now, mine ami, you shall see de sacrifices dat I makes for you," and, i his mouth to the keyhole, Lewey commenced sighing forth the most ardent protestations of love that the young girl had ever listened to in her rt and uneventful existence, and, confound the fellow, he put so much life in his prayers that I believe he rather liked it, and thought it not such disagreeable work as he pretended. CHAPTER III. LEWEY MAKES LOVE, AND QUITE SUCCESSFULLY. I HOS PAYS US A VISIT, AND IS CAUGHT IN A TRAP. A GALL IT IX XVMICM OUR DOG TAKES PART. ESCAPE FROM THE CALABOZO. A : TO THE HIDE-HOUSE BY THE . AN ATTACK, I WHK || JA .. INDIGNANT SAILORS AND KANAKAS. THE KIRK. A RETRO- TVyf Y little darling," sighed Lewey through the keyhole, "does she hear <L ** me ? does she still think of the yo;i who loved her from the first time he let his eyes fall upon her beautiful fa Then the lad turned to me, and said, " All dis I docs for your sake. It is no pleasure for me to lie so to any voman." "Goon,* 1 I remarked. " Lying comes to you so naturally that there is no fear "i y.ur injuring yourself in my estin please. Perhaps the girl can be induced to believe you. But I do not see fcow it is to benefit us." . t and see, mine friend. D.u girl vill let us out of dis place, or know nothin I of de female heart." Once more he whispered through the keyhole, and said, iro chico, arc you listening to m<- Yes," she answered. I hear -ill thai ; on say, but no words that you utter can induce me to unlock the door of your cell. My father has den it." " Ah, beautiful one, what is a father to a devoir : :rn to once more kiss your hand, to smooth the tresses of your luxuriant 1... into your eves, so biack and brilliant, to feel . breath on my face," and then Lewey turned to me, and asked in a low tone, "or puttin on de tenderness ? " but think of your soul." de soul now. It am ri.- .m dinkin and cnce ra v turned his attention to the girl, who still hovered ough there was a certain fascination in its vicinity. "I thought th.it I should never marry." Lewey COntiou 1, still speaking . .ind whispering through the keyhole, " lit; no\v I IK . in never be happy unless in your pres; ,. -. Ah. d but unlock the door so that I could be with you for a .lie girl replied. fear. O best of women ?" was the next question. " 1 love you. My friend is asleep, and hears me not. He knows nothing of the I am addressing you. Let me press your hand but for a moment, and then I shall sleep in peace. Your heart is not like stone to withstand my "if I shoul-1 let you out will you return to the cell when I bid you do :!>e girl asked, and I knew that the smooth-tongued h\ : I l.- urd the girl remove the key of the cell from its accustomed place. " I verything to one so beautiud as you," was the response. let me remain in your present and dreary when absent from your side." all the liars that I ever heard you are t!.e worst." I i.. \viiis- ]>ut into the lock by the. deluded girl. it up, and pretend to snore, for no girl like love to her 1,.- mad- 1 to dc pretty talk," my friend remarked, an :. advice. I gave vent to some unmusical-like sounds as ti >cn. "Come out, kiss me just once, and then return to the eel!," t!: whispered. re was no second invitation needed. Lewcy rushed to her. en! irms, then I heard some vigorous salutes, and but iV-.v >trug- vent them. "H "."cried the girl. "Your companion will awaken, and whit will he think ?" mswercd the boy. " He is a cold blooded Amerii an. and cares nothing for the beautiful girls of your nation Do not fe;<r. A 1 the kissing In the world would not awaken him." : and / 73 fie is not hold a.. ward like you. I think he won!. I marry me if he had the chance," I h r her breath. rtSUTy .1 m.m like him, when you can < j the conceit of the aick him, I fcit so indignant. re me as a wi;e if you knew me betti; . in a coquettish tone, and, I supposed, toss of her h< I doubt me ? I am a Frenchman, and a son of France nc . ceives the fair . when should you want to marry ? * asked the i^irl. who was a prac- : some l risible p u believe all .to her willing < soon as se," was the prompt answer, and a ki ma- ip with en. !< be too soon ? " the l.uly a- to ominous pause, as though even the impul sive Lev. itcd at the shortness of time that was allowed him to make bi ith the world, and - \ :1 s.iid. " You do not love me." If I did not answer it was because j regretted you should make the time to long before my bap] rived. A whole \\- Ah, why do you act thus coldly toward D for her compliance to t r a lit- ivcrl. and I paid much attention to what ioll. right and proper," the prudent >;irl n .t I would demand .inytl.in.^ B a repni.irhh.: N". I am a Frenchman, and honorable, like all of (ountrvmcn. I could much for a listener, on rl s ears. They both hei ray ( .mil the 1 1 )o not soeak o loud." Lewey and I. " Do not fear him," the lad cried. " He is always a sound sleeper. I have known him to slumber during the most terrible gales. Nothing would SD liim but a call for breakfast or dinner. When food was ready tin slightest whisper was enough to bring him to his feet* 1 I determined to quarrel with Lewey if I ever got out of prison. liut J would not punish him as he deserved, simply let his conscience do thai provided he had such a thing, and I really began to doubt it more tlix ever. \v," said Lewey, "as we are to be married you must let my friend escape from the prison. Take that big key from your pocket, and open the outer door." Gracias dios ! but I dare not do that," was the reply. " My father would kill me for violating my trust." ten to me, caro dulce," pleaded the boy. " We must both escape tonight or we shall soon be separated forever. Did you not hear Don San- chos say that we were to be impressed for the Mexican army ? Our cour age is so great we should be killed by the gringos in the very iir>t battle, and then you could not marry a dead man, for he would be of no use. In a few davs Sanchos will leave this part of the State for Pueblo los Angeles, or Sa: u Then I can come from my place of concealment after all danger is passed, and no one c.in prevent our marriage." Even our dog, which had been perfectly quiet during all the conversation here arose, shook himself, and uttered a subdued howl. He must have un derstood my friend, and became disgusted at his strong statements, one . utterly devoid of truth. not," sobbed the girl, and now I began to pity her, for who can man s tears ? Even Lewey seemed a little contrite, for his voice lost some of its assur ance, and he was more considerate, as he said, " Chico, we must leave this prison tonight, and with your aid. You can say we took the key from you by force. That yon let us out of the cell for a moment, to get a bit of supper, and we rushed upon you, and made our escape. That is the story you are to tell, and no one will disbelieve where will you ? There is no phre that is safe from Snnrhns. ! hunt for you in every direct. on, and, if he finds you. death will be the young girl showed her anxiety by her tears. for us. little one. Once beyond these walls we can take cara ( our.^l-^s. You will aid us, sweetest of San Diego maidens ?" Lewey and /. .:! go." I heard a shower of kisses on the girl s lijs \ Jack he uttered another growl of contempt, and I did not blame Inn., enough to make a human being sick. cried Lewey, calling to me, "do noble-!. vill release us. Ye is free. Avake, and let us be off, for ve hab no time to lose, and I has vorked harder tonight dan ebe; ^ does not easy to me come. But, O mine friend, much do( s I do for you. May you nebber be called upon to act as I hab n I did not expend many sympathetic words upon the Doy, for I thought they would be useless, not believing that he suffered as much as tended. The girl had just taken the key from her pocket, and handed it to my friend, when we heard a footstep at the door, and then the harsh voice of bane Open, in the name of the law," he said. "Quick, enter your cell," exclaimed the youiu ;t jailor. He will kill me if you are seen in this room. Do not delay a moment ; vamous muy presto." " You will not lock the door? " asked Lewey in a low tone, as tho : had a suspicion that she would do so, and 1 saw a shade pass over hi- as if he had been suddenly inspired with some new idea, that was of imjxjrtance. " Open the door," repeated Sanchos. " Caramba! do you intend to keep me here all night ? " " Go in your cell," the girl said, her face showing the v-rror that s at the sudden appearance of the agent of General Castro. " Do n< a moment. I will not lock you in," and then, to show how sincere s! added hastily, " Take the key, and lock yourselves in. I will tell the man . .her has carried it \vith him to the fandango, in case he asks !ie pushed Lewey into the cell, and thrust the key into my friend s hand. He did not delay a moment, but entered the room, locked the door, and then the ^irl yawned, as if just awakened from a deep sleep, and admitted the Mrxiran. 1 you not hear me call to yon ? " Sanchos asked. " For dios, but I thought you were r!. " I was sleeping soundly, srnor." the lady answered. " I but little rest on account of th drunken Indians, and today I have been and I. .our prisoners. I flid not expect any one hei: tonight, and Cell into a doze. What is the hour, senor ? n ied, and Sanchos was deceived by her actions an ! words. :> see the prisoners," the Mexican mutteix, to be c .safe. In a day or two I shall start ; . lonte- with Indians, and perhaps they will ar.ivc there in safety. ic prisoners are all right," the girl said. " Look in the cell, and set or \ou,-seii. Try the door, and you will find that it is locked. 1 my p.i re has in his pocket. He feared to leave it at home." icricano," Sanchos cried, as he endeavored to get a view of me keyhole. to the devil," I retorted. "We wish to sleep." i are not polite, laughed the Mexican. "I shall leach you to be more complimentary in the course of time. Kick that Frenchman into life, and let us see what he has to say for himself." "Go to the devil," was the response from Lewev, in the same tone and words I had used. t until I have sent you two boys to see him, and prepared a reception in my behalf. Would you like to come out? " No response on our part, but Lewey grasped my arm, and whispered ; y> ,ou game to dings do? Vill you lend me a hand? and in dis place he comes, and ve lock de door on him." I squeezed back a willing response, and then we inserted the huge key in its proper place, and waited for our opportunity, when we could make a rush, and turn the tables on our enemy. -liall see you in the morning, and mind you have more civil tongues in your heads, or the worse for you. A few dozen blows with the end of a on your bare backs, will be apt to improve your tempers and man ners. Remember, I am master here just at present, and my word is law to all whom I address." We wanted to punch the scoundrel s head for his insolence, but restrained ours " Stand ready," whispered Lewey. " You take de man s arms. I vil! look out for his neck, and Jack him much vil! bite about de legs. Be care ful dat lie docs not de knife get hold of. If he do, cut vi ll he, and ve may comr srrnnd We heard the Mexican move awav from us to speaK to the girt, and.t* Lewey and I. this moment, Lewey used the key, flung open the door of thi ceU, and we sprang out, and toward Sanchos, Jack at our heels. The Mexican turned at the noise we ma-ie. and, when he saw us, his sur- .vas so great that for a moment he forgot to reach for his long, sharp knife. 44 Go for him, Jack," I yelled, and then Lewey and myself threw ou: around the man, the French boy at his throat, while I seized the elbosvs, ;ned them at his side, and the dog did some beautitul tearing m the hnrhood of his ankles. .oiled S.inchos. "Give the alarm, girl. The \ crs will escape. A thousand curses on you." He si i-. arfully, but we had the strength and muscle to him. se had been trained to hard work for three NX.: ; .1 ling sails, and rowing, and were note, while the Mexican had led an indolen* life, the only exerci- accus tomed ; horseback. I will give the scamp the credit o: ! equestrian, and he could throw a lariat with the precision of a 44 Down him," cried Lewey, as the fellow continued to yell, and we feared that he would alarm the neighborhood, while the girl was in a wringing lur hands, and almost franiic with terror. We tripped the greaser up, and let him fall with a heavy thud, hi- striking first, and it rather confused his senses for a moment, but the instant he rer reath a yell issued from his mouth that must have been in the street, had any one been listening. In the mean time Jack had torn off the Mexican s leggings, and w.i down to ha; , *ry bite telling, as \ve could judge by the fellow s kicks, for he . .tc lively, and sometimes the dog 1 then on the floor, but at no period did he release his firm knew his business, and was attending to it with promptness and despatch. ii off your blanked dog," gasped the Mexican, but, as he opened his mouth to speak, Lewey jammed a piece of the l^gings in between his teeth, and gagged the greaser effectually, so that he could for help. To prevent being bitten by the desperate mm my friend used the iron key with much force and happy results; then I reached do.vn and seized the long knife, which had fallen from its sheath, and put the point to the owner s throat. * Be quiet, or I 11 kill you as jou lie on the floor," I said, and Sanchoa Lewey ami /. saw that I was in earnest, for lie made a motion that he had \ :e resistance. irn him ober," cried Lewey. "Ve must his hands and arms 1 in his stomach we rolled the man, and then took in :1 his waist, and tied his elbows together so that ho ss lil us, had he been so disposed. Jack from his sport, dragged the greaser to the ceil ire l.a \ u- >i, threw him in, and then said, the present we are quits. We won t kill you, as you deserve for iiery, but hereafter let us alone, and we w.ll be satisfied." not see the man s face in the darkness, but it must have . as he lay on the floor powerless. He moved his le^s, however, at us, but we were beyond his reach. Then, wishing the Mexi- d out of the cell, and locked the door. nd Lewey, to the frightened girl, " here is the key. letter run .-.iher. and tell him to swear that it has not left his j ; moment. Sanchos will think the gringos made one like it, "ii and yours escape all harm for what has occurred." * i Ut you still love me ?" sobbed the girl. i course. Have I not said so? " ! sou will marry me very soon ? " pleaded the woman, and she looked hard at Lcw-.-y, a little suspicious of his intentions. tit with patience until 1 return," the French lad said. " We 1 .ded by danger, and this is no time to talk of matrimony." > yard the door, which was unlocked, when the \ :rd us, and laid her hand on my friend s arm, thus detain : m for a moment. ad men," she cried, "and I do not believe that eith- r thought of marrying me. I have got to lose my prisoners, and a it the same time." think of the kisses that you have received. Don t those count for something, little darling?" asked the hard-hearted French boy, as he con- ti<l the door. ie devil," she yelled, "you have cheated and deceived me. .fd, by Jove, she made a grab for th- :h hands in it with a firm grip, ami s< i . H deprived of its young. She vill mine head pull ill.- tir<--soit." Lewey and /. nc one : u cafo- rh convuN ; fin- r hold. t:i :ne a blow on the lace th.it made me see quite a inr. ;.t I thought I UMs in t :. .1 teach you better than to interfere in my afL we heard from the girl, for she immediately tumbled to the i . kicked her heels on the planks until the noise sounded like the t >f a drum. vot a vife she vould make for a nice young man like me. all the comment Lewey made as we darted out of the door, fol! .ifter us. .;-. the dark street we could hear the hysterical matrimony until we turned a corner, then the sounds of a harp and guitar came from an adobe h< is in full blast near us. I must hab one leetle look," the French boy said. " I \ , to l.uli. . and to note if dey is booful. A Fiv;,diMian in ; v ccts lo de softer > 1 rubbed my face, and wondered if all the girls of San Diego had daughter, and then attempted to point out to my friend the /, even for a moment. Hut h going to walk five miles to the hide-house until he ha .-;. es with a glance at the girls, and he had his me:. on him, being so impulsive and reckk of the house stood open, and there was sound of scuftlin. ios and men waltz.ed. We kept in the shadow of the building, and There was a roomful of dark-faced . and brilliant .id in the corner, near a sort of bar, we saw bottles of wine and irdicntc, and a scamp we did not care to meet, it being C brother of the fellow we had placed in our cell, and the same person we had good reason to suspect of firing on us the evening we m.i is drinking aguardiente, with several of him each having a glass in hand, and a half-breed girl in close pr> .lie party. ! like to fetch him a crack ober dc head," mutter l of the g: that moment cam -tabrea i -e could he ha ;-) courtes; 82 Lewey and I. " Entrer, muchacros." We heard a stir in the room, and dropping of glasses, but did not halt for further demonstrations. We ran down a street, turned a corner, and saw before us the house of Captain Fitch, with a light burning in the din ing-room. We did not stop to let the gentleman know we were out of pris- ijut kept on, as we heard the sound of footsteps behind us. We knew that we could outrun any greaser in the town, but were not disposed to give the fellows a chance to try conclusions, as we feared pursuit on horseback, and from several directions, which might be fatal to our fortunes and hopes. As we passed Captain Fitch s premises we saw a low adobe wall, not more thin five feet high, and enclosing a garden, the residence of a rich Mexican, who was collector of customs, or something of the sort. " Ober ve goes here," panted Lewey, and he made a spring, vaulted on the wall, and then jumped to the ground, on the other side. I caught up Jack, who seemed to think that the race was gotten up for his especial benefit, pitched him over the wall, and then followed the ani mal, and, just as I landed, a whole troop of greasers came down the street, followed by all the dogs in the neighborhood. Luckily for us the latter \\?re worthless curs, and without the power to follow a trail, unless it was b and broad, like that of a wild animal. Man they had never been ht to hunt, although a few of them could track an Indian, if encouraged to do so by their owners. As the greasers passed down the street we could hear them panting from unusual exercise. Then they stopped near us, and all talked at once, like a group ot rls. who expect an invitation to a party. We had . ; .-ep a firm hold of Jack s mouth, for he made considerable exertion to . of growls and angry barks. come t!. one fellow said. " They turned to the I know they did, for I caught a glimpse of them." Does any one knov, :y were the two 1> ,vs confined in the calabozo," a greaser said. " I glimpse of they ran from the door of the house." : .:npossibl- . - They are in the cal.ihozo, safe unrk: key, You must be mistaken." M I know that I am not," was the positive reply. " I remember the boys often seen them when they belonged to a ship that xn the CO " How could they have made their escape, if such is the case ? " demand- Lcwty and 1. Bj to answer the question, a man sud- , ur brother? He s. TIC could say where the chief scoundre. roont, although 1 heard several of the greasers la . , it woul J not ,at they knew about the fellow s \\. time. " I will w.v;er a medio peso that the boys :ire at this in Don .i s house. They would naturally go there for protection and advic o had not before spoken, and w clearer than the others. Weil th :hc exclamation of Carlos. * \Ve will go and aslc ::ior if he is sheltering suspicious persons." The fellows moved off in the direction of Mr. Fitch s premises, not more than one hundred feet from our place of concealment. Under the shadow of a tig-tree we watched the crowd hovering around the adobe house of the American, and we wondered what their reception would be like by the sturdy de time for us to cut de stick," Lewey whispered, and we stole through the garden grounds, still holding on to Jack, to prevent his giving an alarm, passed to the other side of the premises, and climbed the \. dropped once more into the street, and struck out for the hide h jar," Levrey said, as we walked along at a rapid gait, ve sheats em boof I, but we should have had no occasion to cheat them had you not txen to obstinate," I remarktd. " When will you learn a little prudence, you hot-headed Frenchman ? " 44 Bah, I runs more risk den dat to sec de booful girls. A true French man nebber dinks of danger vhen de softer sex is CDncerned. He risk all, eben his honor, for one sight of a nice face, one dat he can make love to. Me true Frenchman." I, I believe it," I sighed; "and, confound you, that tongue of yours, and desire to make love to even-thing that wears a petti ost you dearly some day. Oh, why will you not imitate me, and keep out of all I The boy passed an arm around my neck, as we walked, and then whispered, 44 You is here now, in dis place, all cos I talks to one female dat like to ind I. be ma : . ou say one v<>. :c prudence, and all dat, as I knows you kiss de i;iil afore 1 comes to \our help. Denv it can you not." :y, for just at that moment we hc.tr>! a r,,.ir from the mob in the town, and we suspected that Mr. Fitch was having his hands full in explaining to his visitors that no one was in his hou > ; t m.sc v;ho .1 to be there. erward learned that the sturdy old captain had explain.-:! that lie knew nothing of our whereabouts, and advised the .Vitxirar. - to the calabozo, and find out if we had made our escape from the prison. This the greasers did, and, when they released Don Sanchos from the cell, and his lathings, the profanity of the man was shocking, and he swore that revenge for all of his injuries. In the mean time, in of his imprecations, Antonio did not lose his head. He directed that ii-1 bj mounted, and search made for us on all the roads, and the beach, thinking that we might secure a boat, and paddle to the hide-house by water, the safest way if we had been sure of finding a skiff on the ll.its. Uut we did not dare to run the risk, and so continued our coarse by the road, and soon left the town behind us. It w . i o clock, we judged by the stars, and just cool enough to make walking agreeable. We had jogged on for half an hour or so. loping of horses in our rear, and suspected lhat our Mcx- lends were in pursuit of us. We left the hi-; : ed the ; ting for the greasers to pass. We had to hold our dog very I the horsemen clattered by, at a full gallop, and, as they disa; continued our journey, knowing that we could do so i Mexican never walks if he can ride, and we thought that ..it the animals might make, if they returned to town, would give mcealment. An^: king sharply on either side of the road for .rned that the Mexicans had : ie, and there, .nl supposed that we had not left the lir; once more sen - in the scrub, until the- " men, and : ility of oviriiaulng us, while one greaser, who re humor than the n-st of hi- -ompanions, actaal- 11 nd and gagged, in that we WITC smart boys and had played a sharp Yankee tiick ou the a;ent of the government Lewey and I. i the Mexicans were out of sight we resumed our ] > were soon at the entrance of the hide-house. All was dark v. there was not a light on the whole beach. Every one had r the UOL:S, and they came toward us with a rush and roar, then saw j 1 us as friends, and so left us to seek their usual slee qua: -irk defiance at the coyotes on the sand-hills in the rear of the ! on the door of the premises to awaken Scotch Jack, the cr t but he seemed disposed to pay no attention to the summons, even if he hea: : not until we had beaten a rappel \vith two .- ..it the old man condescended to move, and then he utter. ^ortment of oaths, as he yelled out, away from this, you blanked greasers, or you will get hurt. The here. I wish they were. You would n t get cm. n ..v ; :..old fellow," I said, " don t you know us? It is Lewey and Thorn. tired and hut. tt l mean to tell me it s you two boys?" the old sail" .-. ; t::e Dutch." .locked the door, and the next instant the shak- |.:ttin;4 us. as if he had not seen us fo; lie cried, "and let me dose the d- a short time ago, and insi.sU--i that uni were in the rn you were not, and, when ; ew on em with one of the old in-.; in a .;un was n t loaded, but they di 1 n t kn. . Now tell me all about it, aiul ho . We I -he Scotchman -ut the A ork making a fire ami a ciij> to satisfy our hunger, all ha;. tO the best method : led to j .-: N should be made the IK . d d not c that the Mexicans would let us . on. em," the old salt can whip a do/en greasers when I Lewey and 7. it to hint such a thing at that time, as we did not care to les- us enthusiasm in our behalf. 1 In the fust place," Jack -., knocked the ashes from his 1 I up the old muskets, and get em ready for ac- takin us by surpri-- , the m -min . The greasers will 1 wo 11 be prepared for em. Some of the men at the other US a hand if we want Vm to, I m sure. I 11 jist put r the door, and blank the cuss that dares to pass u is him not to. Don t you be afeard, boys. I m on deck, ommands this craft, and knows what I m about every watch." d the two old muskets with heavy charges of powder and small Jack got out a rusty cutlass, which he knew how to handle, and at the lights, and turned in, tired and sleepy wiih the cxcitin* of the day and evening. not disturbed during the night, and awoke refreshed, and feel- cope with any disagreeable incidents that might occur during When we turned out the kanaka was preparing breakfast, and from the house, and did not return for some time. :i he came back we noticed that the old cutlass was at his side, held in r strap, which served the double purpose of keeping - his hips, and as a sword belt. He appeared as proud :x)n as a captain of a man-of-war in full uniform, and assumed the I to tun away with the idea that the greasers, if they ame to the Leach in the course of the day, would be impressed with his ice, and make a hasty retreat. been around to the other hide-houses, and tipped the crews the - might expect, and the !x,vs will lend us a helpin- hand n to," the old sailor remarked, as he took his scat at the ta- >Ie, and laid the cutlass on a spare chair, with all the dignity and precau- ions of a military chieltain. I hopes the greasers will keep away from I don t want no row, but if one comes the hardest must fend Blank the man what .. ; f or a messmate, say I." We certainly hoped the Mexicans would give us no more trouble but subject, as we expected the Sanchos family would all thoughts of revenge so readily. They were vindictive scamps, and had the power to make it uncomfortable for us, at least for a time. The (h > w - r > as no rain f,.li, but the sky was overcast, and the find light from the southed. The air was delicious, pure and invigorat- Lcwey and I. $7 >-,reat flocks of brant and ducks, geese and snipe, fille .arbor, and made lively music with their quacking and honks, while the waters of the bay were covered with gulls and pelica.. >oked at the fowl as they fed at low tide, and longed to make an expc nst them, but when we hinted as much to the Scotchman he repudiated the idea with scorn. You jist stay where you is," he said. " Keep in the house, and have an eye on me. I m skipper of tins craft, and mean to command it. Xo liber- tv todav for any one," and we did not care to disobey the order, knov how much we were dependant on the old sailor for proteci.on. About tea o clock some one on the beach shouted " Sail oh," and we rushed to the door, thinking that a ship had entered the harbor, but the alarm was false, as it alluded to a party of horsemen who were galloping along the road leading from the town. We counted twelve Mexicans, and thought that we could recognize the two Sanchos at the head of the caval cade. "Stand by for stays." cried Jack, and took up his ! B more hole, and laid his hand hard on the hilt of the cutlass. "Get the -uns all ready, and don t fire till I gives the word of command. I m goin to have a little talk with em." As Jack s Spanish was rather limited we did not sec how it was to be done with satisfaction on either side, but made no objections. .orsemen dashed up to the door of the hide-house, a cvii ; Antonio Sanchos and his brother Carlos among the v did not dismount, but sat on their horses fur the firs: l..m hour, and ; reluctant to come to blows. Maestro de la casa," cried Antonio, addre^ /.man, ..e two fugitives from justice uuder your pri : render the lads to us, or shall we i lo the devil," roared the Scotchman, who mule: I by Sancl >jer English, you l\ : you .ith a gentleman like me. I don t kno-.v your hi...; Latin, and <i-a t want to, but I can patter the John ic. or tin old , A ith any able seaman of my weL not comprehr had listrriM attentively, in the hope of ca the .;it had to give up in despair, interpret for y at least know what we say, even if ti. *li is hah *," muttered Lewey, "and he know I B] ;i ~ l> hat do thc S u> : Jack, turning ton, the hang of their habler." rmed the Scotchman of the Me* . ahluul , h Jack war,; J] th e talking, he grumbling! v allowed us to take a Innd in the pal.. the greasers," the old sailor said, that they had hater I i for the town once more, for it ., ;.u without a fight, and some one will lose the numl ss. Let them put that in their pipes, and smoke it, if thev \\e translated the speech, not exactly in ti.e form in which it was deliv- :>ear as we could, so as to convey a mm defiance, and . Sanchos had heard us to the end, very patiently, I will admit, he has been declared between Mexico and the United States, and we to destroy all thc houses on thc beach, and , rv per- under the America,) flag. We do not desire to proceed : have you two bovs, bv force if necessary." i is as long as thc Bttinto -bowJin ," muttered Jack as the n ceased speaking. It takes a sight of words from a greaser to thing what has no mcaninV i to the old sailor rdl that the man uttered, and Ja<* issumcd he handled his cutlass, and replied,- that they may go to thc warmest place they can think of, and r, and then I won t give you up." words were conveyed to the Mexicans Sanchos seemed > DC angry, for he gave an order, and all of ! Cd,drew keen, long knives, unbuckl d thc heaw spun from their hem in their left hand and then ad i us. thinking that they could carry our Btftmghol fame on, Lewey and I brought thc old muskets to our 1 the crowd, while Jack brandished his cutlass in a nd the kanaka rook whirled a hatchet aitnind his head, r the style of an Indian s tom.-ihav/L noting thewarlj that : once thnedainol Sanchos sa.d -because, if wi Attack. ; Me the question in a jus: :o the calaboro, and remain there until ht have been just and f;iir. .- we h..d , .incl hurry us toward t! aienily murder us on the way. II ,,d for just such trcaiher f their power, if possibl", and accept of no < . , >u black-hearted scoundrels, an lack yelled, seeing the Mexicans halt, D0 fight after all He did not. wait until we ha mou.u h for the old sailor that tin to ind-.il-c in I , up. The property in the hide house, the hous troyed durin- thfi melee, but there - P" /,U of it for a moment, old on for a moment," the old sailor cried. J| American fl.i-4 &O \>\* chc.t, wra , and then lx>ldly shook the banner in the >.s he did so. shouted, - Jot worthless, cowardly curs. Do you sc< itars and tripes. I Ve Hd blank m, if I won t die n ,,r aambert. Nosv come on, : .a me is a blow at the nation this I :.rt if this fooling continues much lo: ; him they m: .they did not, then , for they* countrv, at that tin, iivovcr the presidioi Jong the - iitllc |x>wcr to ba- urter-d do,w their dignity 9 Levuey and 1. u We can t stand here talking all day," the elder Sanchos cried, as soon as he and his gang had allowed the grins to pass from their faces. " \\ c care no more for your Yankee flag than we do for the green banner of the false prophet. Once more, will you give up the bo;. " What does he say ? " demanded Jack. "He say, cried Lewey, with a little stretch of imagination, "dat he care no more for de American flag dan he do for all de Scotchmen in de vorld, and dat he can lick us vid one hand." " Hold hard/ muttered the indignant sailor. " He slights a true-blooded on of old Scotland, does he ? Why, blank that greaser s eyes, I could eat a dozen like him." The Mexicans seemed to think the time for argument had expired, and that a good chance for an attack now presented itself. They came forward with a rush, but dreaded the sight of the two old muskets, ,ind Jack s f jr- midable cutlass. Once more they halted, and seemed disposed for another palaver, but just then a new idea struck the elder Sanchos. " Compadres," he said, " we will burn the coyotes out of their holes. Let us set nre to the building, and destroy it, and the nest of the enemies of the State." Tiiis was a scheme I had feared would enter their minds, and it was one fraught with danger to every person on the beach, for, if one hide-house was hied, the others would surely go, as they were close together, and built of rough boards, a little damp on account of the recent rains, but still in flammable, and easily destroyed. We hastily told Jack of the threat, and, as the words passed our lips, he snatched the musket from my hand, took a hasty aim, and fired at the greasers. I do not think that he intended to hit any particular person, but, as luck was on his side, planted the charge just where it would do the n. good, for Don Antonio Sanchos ha-1 turned for the moment ba -k to us, for the purpose of giving some instructions to his men. Th- : entered v his sash, and the fellow clapped his hands on the scat of his panta< loon*, uttered a yell that set our dog to howling jumped more than two :i the air, and then came down on the soft sand, and blasphemed like a p.rate. >rk in surprise and consternation as they wit- ncs - s the wounded m.m. None of them wished to l.c injured in a CAU.S-- th.it cvaa not likelv to lrin thim pesc.s. It was money they de sired more thin -^lory <>r h,n I Shooting was .ill very well as long as they were not the recipients of the shot, and, while they were willing to do Lewey and I. a little fighting, and much thieving did not see that they interested in making an attack on a hide-house, that was barren of all tr-. ure exrc; t a few hundred qucros. and those were of no use to men were traveling around the country, restless and anxious. Gr1 kgo of the devil," yelled Sanchos, as soon as he could recover his breath, and found that no vital . injured, "you have insulted the r.y person. You shall suffer for this." -You and > e blanked," retorted the Scotchman. C a good line shot, am , o same any day," then, as h- that the ,cd dissatisfied with the treatment their leader ha d, and fearing that the greisers would carry out their threats to burn the building, the Scotchman put his hands to his mouth, speaking tru:. fashion, and yelled, . .; hands ahoy. Tumble up here, and help douse sail." The cry was heard all over the beach, and understood. The masters and gangs of the several hide-houses had resolved to come to our assistance case* of necessity, but not to make their appearance unless tlu upon in earnest. As the sailors and kanakas poured out of the buildings, armed with hide-hooks, clubs, and muskets, they presented a formidable appearance to men who were only provided with kniv irs. Jack, who somehow had the impression that he was on the deck of a frigate, alongside of an enetm. D or dered to head a boarding party. As he uttered the words the Scotchman flourished his cutlass, struck at an imaginary enemy with a one, two, three motion, and d the bewildered greasers, while I ^ka -,-cd our leader, clubbing the muskets, and prepared to do frightful execution on the heads of our enemies. The v the formidable crowd advancing in their rear and front, and, alas for Don Sanchos adherents, they were not capable of :h a charge. For only a moment did they hesitate, then, :l.-cl for their horses, but even those could not be tafety, as the crews of the other hide-houses rut off their retreat, so there was but one resource, and that was to run. an<l they did scamper along the U they never had been used be- f or ,. 1 Scotchman f lone in the rear, with 01: in advance, ., v* at every hcci that was convenient for a nip from his well-armed jnws. We were all mixed up in the cha*e. The puns were so lu Uwey and I could not make much headway, and. therefore, were glad when the I Lewey and I. old sailor, panting with ifs unusual exertion*, the perspiration a halt, and CM | , UIL- hide*- houses, as be jlory enough for one day, in bi ; on. of their way toward the town, and a uhile to see if they were disposed to return, and renew the at, as they did not do so, we retraced our steps homeward, and then ! a short address, in which he said iluit the battle we 1 in was equal to that of Waterloo, and, with such men as had ,1 him that day, he could overrun the whole country. We cheered our speech, and all the rest joined in. Jack said if he had a bottle of aguardiente he would treat the crowd, but was rather disconcerted when an old fellow wanted to know how nought one bottle of rum would go in such a collection oi who had rvt had a drop of spirits for a week ? ver, U-w.-y and I saw a chance for popularity, and said that if a .as found we would semi up to town lor a gallon of spiii^ pay for it oat of our own money, and three cheers were given for the propo- i:ul the proposers, and a kanaka volunteered to start immediately lor the village, armed with a one-gallon jug, which Jack owned, and k- just su Ji set vice. :;posc that any one would harm the kanaka, as he was a qui.jt ina-i, and never interfered with other people unless imposed upon. ieil our expectations, for the native of the Sandwich Island* town, ami, when questioned by Sanchos gang, said that every t, and plenty of powder and balls, and were visited the beach in a war-like manner. This \\as a Might of imagination on the part of the kanaka, but his word was lr- ) HI Sanchos was busy having fine shot picked out of his Bought best to let us alone for a wi.ilr. or until a surprise could be effected, and no danger incurred. ".irncd the horses loose, those that had been left behind by the is, and they galloped back to town riderless, and were 1 by their respective owners. .anaka returned with the aguardiente about four o clock in the aftt-r- .iml, from his appearance, we judged that he had sampler! the liquor on the way clown to the beach, for he was the silliest nun v. i in an imbecile manner, am ger . ! then the other, and say, lay he like, lilank all Mexicans, and love good . and I, 93 me, but loci to tr, court- tiaUnds. I othechaii, .:thonty for d :he blunt, ton. : [gilt and mi-lit. -.vhat steals a rum e, that black- I taken half a i, od has it clone him ? To appreciate liquor drill ., .ite." shouted some person in t! kne-.v wboutl .y laughed. 1 to li-ht his best fiien m this morning and can lick half a do/on thi, B saiil. "Who slung that insult at my hea . Mo one cai ; dobisthare <>t fij . ;i en he knocked Charley, th-- r.ornin- in the AdmitW ..otchmin sail!, liiulin- th.it : I in a charitable man. I m not o in- I all of this rum f h it." : the kin l. bol statemi M. f.-r reax red him a debt I has been thin!. the run\ aucd, afi 44 ! ;: i," one ol , led, and then ever;, Char c Scotchman asked. 94 Lewey and I. " But who will mix it? " some one demanded. "I will," was the old sailor s dignified reply. " Then the saints help us, for no one else will get a smell," a man re marked, ami i.-very one laughed. " I can tick you in two minutes," Jack cried indignantly. .,1, you won t, for, if you did, I should n t feel like having any of that punch. Let s take the rum first, and the lickin arterwards, if you please," persisted the sailor, whose head seemed to be clear on that point. " I 11 let my two shipmates, the lads, help me do the mixing," Jack said at leojth, and this decision seemed to please every one, so it was agreed that seven o clock was the proper hour for the drinking to commence, and, with this understanding, the hide-house people separated, while Lewey took charge of the jug of rum, and, to prevent a great shrinkage before the prop <r time arrived, locked it up in his chest, and put the key in his pocket. After siijM>cr we procured some limes, brown sugar, and water, a pan that had done duty for various purposes, but was clean as the kanaka cook could in. ike it, and concocted a punch, and, after Jack had sampled it sever al times, he --aid it was as good as anything could be that had so much wa ter in it, a:id yet taste of rum. As far as he was concerned he did not like to have his liquor sweetened. Pure aguardiente was the best for him, and for every one, but, as there was not enough to go around, he must do the best he co iil-.i by the aid of water. Our friends came trooping in at the appointed time, and each man brought a tin pot and a chair, as our establishment could not boast of glasses ::ficient for all hands. Scotch Jack did the honors, and wel- v one with that quiet geniality which he could so well assume when good-natured. til here," he said, as soon as the company was seat ed around the room, to take a drink in honor of the way we licked the greasers, and to say that I thanks you for the hand you lent me in sendin em off to the town in a hurry. I could have whacked em alone, single- handed, but I a n t mean, and wanted to give all a chance." he took a tin pot, bailed out a liberal supply of the punch, threw back his hi owed the liquor to course down his throat in a tantal izing manner to the observers. "11 you keeps on that way there won t be much chance for us at the . at any rate," one of the rival hide-house keepers muttered, and there was a murmur of assent all around the room from men whose moutht were watering fora taste of the mixture. Lewey and L " Uon t you be in such a blanked hurry," cried the Scotchman. knows what politeness is, and how the quality does the bi; .en ship- s meet for a social glass. We is soing to h.i. .nd sich like. I now gives you the first regular one. Here il is. greas He put the tin pot to his mouth, and took a long pull, and there deep groans from ail the company present, for no one was 5n\v ond the toast, or to drink to it. Jack did not appear to heed the ominous growls. Ii; to be on other and more interesting matters. He looked around tlie room, his weather-beaten face all aglow with the hospitality which be was dis pensing in so liberal a manner. But he paid no attention to the imp!< looks and deep frowns of his audience. M I 11 now give you the second regular toast," the Scotchman continued, after he had regained his breath, and then dipped his tin pot into the punch once more, not owning a ladle, and this time every one supposed the liquor was to be passed around, and their eyes were full of anticipation, and their m luths of tobacco. We lias all heard," Jack continued, " that the United States and I at war. We don t know if it is true. If it is true, we will drink to the best man, and may he win." nvcd a liberal allowance of the punch, and, as the pot I lips, gazed around at ihe mourners, and remarked, in a mild and encourag ing manner, " We ll now give three cheers for the States." No one responded to the call. The company were too indignant to thccr anything, or any one, but more than a dozen < and looked the fight which they felt. As for the kanakas, they chattel i r musical tongue, and wondered what kind of a party t :iilor invited them to, where one man did the drin . all the ig. i don t seem to like that toast," Jack said, after.; t a little backward in cheerin for the H..L: un have sailed for so many years, and eaten the l>r<-ad and be< !;cen doled out to you in full rations, and nn minis " Blank yer yarnin and chinin ," at the grog-tub, and then we 11 cheer fast enough. seein a shipmate do all the swillin , and we as dry as an old hulk, v. hat i? iaid up in ordinary." id I. .:. In an absent-i.. :pped his tin pot into the punch, ta.-tc-d it, ;o I t did not seem quite suited, as he muttered, ia pultin in too much water. It allers spiles i to add v, a chance t * je what it is like," one man said, but Jack did not to hear him. He was so .well satisfied with himself ami position not to catch all the complimentary remarks which I 1 to him by the company. Neither di;l he * . ihe : .li.M-ontent that were heard on all sides If he . they \\xre ia-.idatoiy fol manner i i \v!m h he was presu ; /and J weie an\iuus to in- mcl distribute the contents of the grog-tub in a l,i;r ami impartial 1-iit knew thr.t if we interposed Jack would i i v at our i use hot words. We needed him as a friend just at that time, to provoke his rj iick temper, which we expected t . i the third regular toast/ die Scotchman said, as 1m . and 1 in sure ail will jine me in it without U Ic." Jit all be taken aback, and get starn-way on us, if you should ax f that ere blessed punch/ growled the masicr of tlie Jack rem.irked, " All in good time. Don t liurry me, and I il do mure \\ork than if I had an orlicer at my lieels all day. The <>u is" . e us the drink, and keep the toasts t lowi, but the Scotchman did not notice the interruption. . ".vn noblr (I with three cheers. Now. om.-/ Jack "ie present responded. .i^h the j.-ro^ramme, and then dipped out another liberal ind Wat UOI I he performed the difficult hnun cried, with drunken -v.ivity, a* 1> : "-ound tin- row r.f <r,nvU : I M I .obby Hums pool Iu ! i:it Bob- by lii.. : As but few present had any acquaintance with the Scotch bard, or, In Lei^ /. ,ot. knew wh.it .j question, al- ..it he knew ti. .v to II. r ard . ;i^. ; dersundiiijj, even if he heard it. He took > my amu.- ted. Wh ,t between a : allow .it the ;M lor tliree .- .v minutes, when: > that interested th^n not, it .under ti: . 1:1^ to i. ,i, just tvc token of i : .:le his _, , and he \\.. .^ r the tune to whic.j tnc lines shoul.; Cabbed hi ustled . mt of the door, \\in_re he re- :.i.ike .1 reliuil .. ; the melli t of the ho 1 ; is of the .,>oped .o minute lljere was not a a . lile loutof the hide-house, h each other i . at the quickly. ve were aroused by liea; to the house he i, .\., tl f the can his h< : ( .^ tun ._,,.. drunken i^iin, t now. or irned fet:I ! ; the li-hts. fill- ilk over our future then, and once more we if I. -at on a spar, near the hide house, in the deep shadow of the build Lewy and I. iag, and talked for a Ion- time, and, just as we had knocked the ashes from our pipes, and thought of retiring to our bunks, two dark forms stole out of the chapparel, and came toward us. They did not notice us where we sat, so we kept perfectly still, and waited to see what the visitors desired, as they had come from the direction of the town. Jack, our dog, u the house, fast asleep, or he would have given an alarm, and the rest of the canines were off on the hills, making lively music for the benefit of a coy ote that hail ventured too near the beach, for the purpose of getting a su]> per of refuse fat and scraps of hide. We said nothing, but waited. The men stopped, and listened for a mo- ment, but, hearing no sound, went to the corner of the house, knelt dour., and we could see them pile some dry material, which they had brought with them, against the boards, and then there was the scratching of a match, but it did not ignite readily, and a second attempt was made. "Dey am about to set on fire cle buildin ," whispered Lewev "Vot skall vedo?" " Dang them over the head with a club," I answered, and the proposition just suited Lewey. At our feet was a lot of fire-wood, which had been cut at odd intervals, when there was no work to be done on hides. We selected heavy sticks, crawled on our hands and knees toward the visitors, for we suspected they nged to the Sanchos gang, and were to secure revenge for the treat- ment they had received during the forenoon. The .Mexicans were too much occupied in experimenting with matches to notice us. In fact, one of them uttered a strong " caramba " at the failure the lucifer to blaze up, owing to the fact that the boards of the house a little damp from the late rains. 14 Make haste/ one of the Mexicans said in a half whisper. "The dogs return in a short time, and bark their heads off if they see us, and then the whole colony will turn out, and give us a lively chase all alon*- the road." . responded the other. "The gringos arc asleep, and nothing will disturb them until morning. If we knew where the boys slept we make short work of them with our kn: . " The risk would he too great," the other answered. " We might stum ble on that amirsed Scotchman. His fist is like a stone, and his strength is that of a hull. We will burn the shelter of the accursed heretics, and then they will be at our mercy. We can clean out the whole gang after tht houses arc gone." Lewey and I Another match was lighted, flared up, and we I blaze th dark s of Carlos Sanchos and another greaser, whom we did not know. The kin.: .ed, and, just as the men arose to beat a hasty retreat, we sprang to our feet, and struck the fellows two he I on the side* of their heads, and they foil :ning had hit them, and did not move, except their feet, which kicked convuls: I a:n afrai . have killed them," I whispered to Lewey, rather awed at the crime we had committed. Better," was the cheerful response of our enemies out of de vay, at any rate/ and then we stamped out the fire, bent down and examined the bodies of the insensible men, removed their long knives from the she.iths, an i went to arouse Jack, and tell him what had happened. But the punch had such an influence over the Scotchman, that all he could say in response to our oukl sing just one more son^ :i take a drink," and, pull as we might, there was no ge: him to realize the sense of danger that the hide-house had been in, so we gave it up as a bad job, and went back for the injured greasers, but they had disappeared in some mysterious manner, and left no traces behind. They i from the blows, which were not as bad as we thought, and lie premises. We called ou dog, and put him on the trail, and he fol- -y and I close to hi! heels, until he came to a lot of scrub oak, and :. -hat our nocturnal visitors had taken their horses, tied to the tree>. in the direction of San Oicgo. It was useless to at tempt to follow tin .-ailed of! our dog. and went back to the hide- house, thinking the fellows he. aching too badly for a second at tempt to fire our building that night, and we were correct in our surmise, ^ one disturbed us, but we took the precautions to lock the outer door, vandcr in, and use a knife on our persons, rt- mcmbcring what one of the greasers had said on the subject. i but a hazy remembrance of the previous night s doings, lie knew that he had enjoyed himself, and supposed that every one had done the same. We did not remind him of his scant hospk ., his atte: :ig, or even of the indignant rush of the suffering people, who pitched him on the sand, and then attacked the punch. It would h we done no good to recall such matters, but we did point out the where the Mexicans had attempted to fire the building, and sho the long, sharp knives, as proof of our assertion, and that all was not a dream. This set Jack to thmkinc. and he called around at the various hid* Lewey and I. houses, and proposed that an anchor watch should be established hereafter, to guard the property, and the project was adopted, until all danger \\ as passed, and then the men had every night in, as usual. We did not hear from the Saih g for several da\s, and, in the meantime, took care not to wander from the protection of the beach, or even O go gunning, for fear of a sur i t one morning Captain Fitch rode down to see us, and stated that he and the alcaLla !, from General Castro, and that the military chiefta-i: sent us permits to re main in the country, and do as we pleased, as long -as \\e did n t take up arms against the State. This so disgusted Sanchos and his gang that al) had gone to the Pueblo los Angeles, and taken forty or fifty military re cruits. We were now free, for the time being, from any molestation on his part, but we were advised to keep at a distance from the man, as In- dangerous, and might prove more troublesome i.* the fir " My a-lvice to you now is to ship on board of some Anu-ric m vessel that is on the coast, and get away from here as soon as possible. In time of war: ll be safe on the ! .nil. Even I have been molested se\ times by bands of greasers calling at my house, and ashing (or money. There is a girl, the jailor s daughter, who gives me no peace, .she i ;r to know where you two boys are located. She :.e or bot!. you promised to marry her. It is wrong to trifle with the affection young ladies," and he grinned as he spoke, as though knowing more of our doings in the calabozo than he was disposed to t 11. Lewey blushed, something he was capable of doing once in a while, as he said, " You no tell her ve here. She is one good girl, but ve has troubU enough vidout vomen boderin us just now." cept the girls you desire to marry ? " hinted the captain. < )h, yes, dem ve skall dink of all do time, my friend said. " Weil, think ol them as much as you ; I I don t marry if you know what is good for your future welfare, 1 then the ca;4ain, s approval on our faces, continued, " I suppose that I am only wasting my in talking to yflu on a su1>je< i have set your : I the best advice that I am caniMc of administering, and you re! in will think of all that I hav ih.it ;ad not acted a little more sensibly. However, go your way, .u.d re- hat, if you get in a hard and lid if i : some y :ne<l men arc >ut the country. IJut :h produced a small bag of goKI, an ,d out lor Leu ey. and the like amount lui im>e.i. t: : t in his 1 . aptain l i nom the Adnv 1 he sum looked like a small fortune t .ought that \ve could see many months of haj-p I on the strength of the amount. I r. 11 you that ii is just as well you should ke< .his money. Give out that you have m.; Q the B lots of greasers who would cut your throat nth of a gold piece, and think they had committed no crime. If you go the country beg your way, and return court fuse e no silver in exchange, so shall you escape some of the d gers of California. I a-n talking to you now just as though you were my own boys, for I know that each of you must have relatives and friends at home who would thank me for my advice, if they knew you needed it as <>u do just at present. 1 \Ve were quite affected at his words, and I was more than half inclined .e all that the gentleman desired, but a glance at Lewi-y s face prc- i 1 made up his mind to carry out the programme marked months before, and I was weak enough to acquiesce in his decision. ijeen better for both of us if we had li : th more at tention, and weighed well his words, and let the girls we tin > in search of other husbands. The captain was :i man of ex; ence in t. >rld in which he lived, and knew : uter iy. He was familiar with their good qualiti- .1 of bad ones, and so moved along in the society in win aim it a jar. making money out of those wh< desired to borrow, and taki - t of twelve per cc a little more, i the security ful, with charming frankness and good -nature, r.dly do. The principal was in. as a -r of course, for the fascinating game of monte was more attractive to the . t m than the payment of rolled on, the captain grew richer, and the natives of the State poorer, and the more pov m the la reater their pri-le and arrogance, the more urc-nt th loans, on estates already en cumbered with mortgages. Lewey and f. " 1 will send you a few notes of introduction to various parties on the coast, and in the interior," the captain said, after he had waited for us to digest his words, and saw that he had not produced the effect intended. " They may be of use to you. At any rate they can do no harm. In them I shall state the reason why you were discharged from your ship, and your desire to become ranchcros, or cattle-raisers. Without such papers the Americans at the Pueblo, Santa Barbara, and other places might think you were deserters, and so turn the cold shoulder to you when lucre was need of their assistance. You must not expect that every American or English man on the coast will receive you with open arms, for they won t. If \ou are asked to dine with them, it may be in the kitchen where your food will be served, and not in the best room in the house, for we have an aristocra cy here as well as in other countries, and the line is drawn at sailors. I know," the captain added hastily, seeing that we were inclined to inter rupt him, "what you would say. I have not the slightest doubt but that you are as good, and belong to as respectable families as any on the coast, but you have served as sailor boys on vessels, and that cuts you off from all acquaintance with the better classes of the State." " But if ve skall rise up, and become rich. Den vot vill dey say to us ? " asked Lewey. " When you arrive at that position you will be able to answer the ques tion to your entire satisfaction, and need no help from me," was the gentle man s reply. Some years after, a French corvette, of thirty guns, anchored in San harbor, and all the officers were welcomed and made much of by the elite of the town. Among those who strove to make the French gentlemen content was Captain Fitch. He gave a grand soiree at his house to the commander of the corvette and the officers, and, while drinking toasts, took occasion to compliment the master of the man-of-war on his excellent Eng- The latter smiled, as he turned to the host and said, in our tongue, "Do you clink dat I could be admitted to any of de houses in dis country on a perfect equality you know ? " " Most certainly. Why should you not be? Your rank will cause all to pay the most marked respect to a gentleman like yourself," Mr. Fitch answered. " But s pose I should inform you dat at one time I vas only a sailor boy on a vessel under de American flag ? " the captain of tho French ship-of-war continued. and 1. at would make no difference to ui in this St Fitch respond- uJge a man by his merits alone." "But if 1 should further inform you dat I vos vonce a prisoner in your calabozo, den vot vould you say?" asked tke French gentleman, with a smile, as he thought of other days, and glanced around the room in which h* .J, sunounded by all the handsome ladies of San Diego, and .L-ntial gentlemen. -ould think that your excellency was joking with me Cor some pur pose," Captain Fitch replied. " But I is not joking. I is very serious. I comes in dis port jist to see de old place some more. Vill you believes me vhen I tells you d.it in dis bery room I vonce, in company vid a bery bad American boy, mine . I den, my best of friends now, gives vhat ve calls a performance of legerdemain, for de amusement of you and your guest "Impossible," Captain Fitch ci! uo nut recollect the circum stance. You must be poking fun at me, for some purpose or o 1 . .en to me," the French gentleman remarked, in a calm tone. " One day, some years ago, vhen mine friend and mineself vas at de hide-house, on de beach, you ask us to gib de performance for de fun of your friends, and you tells us ve can hab de supper in one room by ourselves, but ve can not eat at de same table vid your guests. Dat did not hurt our feel: ve did for de company. Ven de formance vas about vot you call ober, von Mexican p. ncd San- chos, entered de apartmnt, and arrest mine friend Thorn, and take him to de calabozo, on de charge of being a i no recollect de ding now .lin Fitch was astonished, and well he might be, at the singular tide of fortune that had carried Lewey from a hide-house to the quarter-deck of a French ihip-of-war. The circumstance all came back to the gentle- roan, and for a moment there \\.is nvu h astonishment to see the Frenchman and the former Am -rican rise from their places at the table, shake handc with great eagerness and cordiality, and then stand and look at each other for a long time, their hearts too full for the words that wanted to flow, but did not, on account oi gladness and surprise. The two men could not real ize the great change that had occurred in their positions in life, and the cap tain of the ship-of war, as lie wiped away the ;rom his eyes, was heard to mutter, M I d gib one dousind dollars if here on dis occasion to tak% part in it, and I kno-.vs dat he voul -id for de chance/ .y and /. tain Fitch, when he could recover his breath, an 1 g< t over his asto.,1 - j nent, told the wunde.tul s.ory of < i, to his Me .ican and American friends present. ey, in the French lan guage, related his nnai.iUt, nut only at Ca >..i ,.i Fitch s but at Monterey, and, to j i l^e from t!: . nu clei friend must haw s funny things, but I hope he told the truth about me. and took his share of the blame, where the L-. .tjr came in, espec ially all that related to the firey serpent. 1 have since been told, by the French nav.d ofnVer, and those \vh with him on that memorable day, that there was m >rc ci: (hunk at the feast than was ever known before or since, aa 1. when all hand fuil . proposed that the whole company si: mart h tbl hat was re- caved with cheers, and. arm in arm, Mexican and Frenchman, ladies and caba lt - l lno 1 t!ie onlv r it that occurred was when a dry, black, wrinkled woman threw herself into the French captain s arms, and called him her .sure, and a bad man at the same time. It was the jail ik-i, mi ae mother of six ch Idien. Tiu ! privately sent her a do lar. a .! ia:.lrnctions what to do. and the ri^ht time to make the ons: : diable episode ot the dav, for even the la cut sen amed with delight at the spectarie of a naval captain, in foil tin! form, b-.-in-^ enibi : ialf-nake ::*.an. Justice to 1. ile that he treate tho-i ! the saints in the calender, that he had never i love to her, or proiivsed to marry her. and that Miie otlier person, and meanly hinted that I ie believed him, I hope. L CU . . after he had extricated himself from her embrace, a t iccc, s-nt her from the shin some jewelry, a few i handkerchiefs, but never sou-lit a second interview. 19 do the loves of our younger days pass from o;ir minds, and lie buried in i of youthful fancies, and, when I think of the matter, I am in. clined to the opinion t . .veyard of affairs of the hear : storked with broken hopes and forgotten protestations of eternal fideli ty on his part. But all this Is i to the fart that we were seated at a tab .- in our hidt-hou^-. and listening to the kind words of Captain I nised us letter?, of recommendation to his friends, and, when he had taken his anJ I. 105 Ir.ive, we m.i- c ui> our inin "s to make the jo:: lUnche .1 with ti .\ tliat ba shine on o-. * our li\\ iijuntlis. were mistaken in the lif- \ve were to Ir.i 1 will be for who cou!. nagincd the tryin*: scenes tin \ve ni .i -e to endure, the dangers to enemies i .ic-* and ck-fc.i , the warm ! shcltercfl us so that at our lives. -inrl thus lived to re-join cur relatives at sor. : r, af youn^ men. CHAPTER IV. PREPARATIONS FOR A LONG JOURNEY. FAREWELL TO SAN DIEGO. EN ROUTE TO RANCHE REFUGO. A VAQUKRO AND BULL. THE LONELY ADOBE HOUSE, AND A PRAIRIE-FLOWER. THE MOUNTAIN LION. LEWEY IS AGAIN IN LOVE. AN INTERRUPTION TO A MID NIGHT COURTSHIP. THE THREAT. WILD INDIANS ON THE TRAIL. WE were in no hurry to start on our long and dangerous journey to Ranche Refugio, for it was the winter season, and sometimes the rain fell in torrents, so we knew the streams would be swollen, and danger ous to crois. We had thought of obtaining passage in a sailing vessel bound up the coast, but none entered the harbor for several weeks, most of the ships bei: Francisco, lying there for security, while the north west and south vjst gales prevailed. One bark, the Don Quixote, came to an anchor at >, and loaded with tallow for Callao. We could have shipped on board of her, and were urged to do so by the master, but Lewey 1 being married, and I could not bear to disappoint his I ipations, and 30 the chance passed away. . thought of taking an otter-hunter s boat, and skirt alone: the coast, lauding at night for shelter, but the people to whom we spoke on the subject, men who knew just what we would have to en counter, protested against the scheme as being too dangerous and impracti cable in th- \v inter season, when sales were frequent, and the surf fearful. They sai-i \vj might be capsized, or driven to sea. in a sudden squall, before we could make a landing, and that no boat could live in such waves as were prevalent between San Diego and Santa Barbara. Jack was in no hurry for us to leave the shelter of the hide-house. He was accustomed to our society, and knew that he would miss us when wa took our departure for good. He talked to us with all the sariousness f a Ltwey and 1. 107 father on the unwise course we had marked out, and declared that no good would come of it, he was sure. We were welcome to 1 . i with him as long as we desired, and do no work unless it suited us. but all his argu ments were lost, and at last he spared his breath. t no im- "Cession was made on our plans. It was rarely that we heard from the North. Once in a while a courier would arrive with despatches for the alcalda, but no battles were reported, excepting a few slight skirmishes with Captain Fremont and his c on the shores of San Francisco Bay, or the banks of the . v But it was stated that General Castro had the Amer; where he wanted them, and that the whole gang of invaders would soon be captured. We did not think there was much probability of a long struggle, a> hoped the Californians would remain neutral during the war, as Captain Graham, of Santa Cruz, advised, and so we went on with our preparations for departure, just as though the country was at peace. We had much to do before we commenced our journey, and many things to pick up. We found at one of the hide-houses two light rifles, which some trappers had left there years before, and never calk , i-.ey were in good order, and needed only a little oil to work perfectly. With them were bullet moulds and powder flasks. There was no trouble in securing caps and ammunition at the town, so that in this rtsi ec t i.t-.r eqi.ij mcnt complete. We purchased the rifles for the sum of ten dollars, and the sell- r thought he got a good price for the guns, as he ne . them, prefer ring the old-fashioned ship s musket to any other firearm that : in vented. Then we hunted up, by the aid of friends ,iirs of small pistols, not of much use. except at cl -ters, but, as they were light, we thought it desirable to possess them. We made s:ra; sling our rifles over our shoulders when traveling, some s- wear around our waists, for the purpose of securing o ves, and bags of can vis to hold our discharge papers, the permits i eral Castro, and letters of recommendation of Captain Fitch, addressed to peo ple along the route. Our next business was to seek to purchase two mustangs and sadc!l< this we were enabled to do, yet horses were cheap, and saddles (.\< our friend, the captain, had some old second-hand equipmr h he had taken for debts from drunken greasers, years before, and he let us have them at a cheap rate, lariats and all. We exercised our animals every day, after we obtained possession, and thus got accustomed to their ways, and enured emrwvvs to the .use of the saddle. At night we would Lewcy and /. ed on the grass near the hide-hous iier, just ountry was then brilliant with a green covering, and th flowers xvv u in full bloom in every direction, or where th u not toD se for them to ob ain a little nourishment. \Ve were in high spirits over our anticipated excursion, as we thought of the pleasure. , of riding through the country, and seeing its wonders, camp- when we pleased, and moving on when it suited our convenience, our and under no one s control. Lut Scotch Jack was dis.sati> \ r.onts, and uttered ominous growls of warning as to the we might have to encounter, f or he had a much greater ap preciation of the difficulties of the journey than we did. It was near the first of April when all of our arrangements were com pleted, an i we were ready for the journey. The steady, heavy rains had ed, but there were occasional showers night and morning. The whole country was verdant, and filled with the perfume of thousands < f strange and brilliant-hued flowers. The gales had degenerated into soft breezes, that came from the north and west, invigorating and healthy. The lungs and under their influence, and we could bathe in the morning in the salt waters of the bay, stand on the soft sand, and inhale the delic ious atim.s. here, then go back to the hide-house, and create ;ion in the mind of the kanaka cook at our desperate attack on the fried beef- ue. ; light before we were to leave, in consideration of the kindness we had received from everyone on the beach, we resolved to give a farewell ir old friends. We readily obtained Jack s consent to the pro ject, only stipulating that, as we were to be the hosts, it was necessary he . 1 not boss operations, as he had done on one memorable occasion, hank nearly all the punch before the indignant guests rose up, and him to the right and left, and then deposited him on the cool sand, tinst further exhibitions of selfish It was some time before we coulu get t!>e Scotchman to promise that he would not interfere, i)it we had to consent to his petition for permission to in.ik- . and sing one of Burns songs. When this was arranged all the rest \vas clear work. We went around to the hide-houses, and person ally invited the sailors and kanakas. All reluctantly agreed to come, al though the keeper of the rival establishment said he d be blanked if he was going t ) any more shindies where one man did all the talking and drinking, and gave no one else a chwnce at the grog-tub. " But tiii. time/ we pleaded, "Jack will not havt the itrving o*t of tfct 109 H? will 1 -e II see ::r full share when tlu !iat Scotchman a it comes to drinkin and fightin he wants more than his omcver, bcin* as it is you, and cos you is about . I don t mind if I comes < n\ just to see the boys, and help alon^ the : ^nt up to San Diego for two gallons of aijuardieir- he precaution of despatching a different nv v;c>-.:sly entrusted with sucli a delicate u.:ty. ;>".t it - lilor, who \vds called upon { . h.il.i drunk on .ich, so our pad. .. ^ little de- n on its . the own _;:i:int at such rank treachery, and .is not . on the .shore who was fit to be trusted with ruin. . and that the next time an entertainment the erran cn<i uj>on him. card this remark he winked very scrioi: . iat Jack had no fear of rum. and would a -ne there was a chance for an encounter, and yet he was th: just as often as they came to close qu >tch- hen he was vanquished, and still fo/ght on. against dcs- nch, and at seven o clock our friends linking tin pots and chairs. Their eyes glistened as the grog-tub, but all were patient, even if u .ces It, u if fearful that he might disappoint them at the last i ire than his share of punch. very \\c I. all things considered, and, af* !i person ! supply of liquor, and all had tasted and ap- i their pipes, and prepared to listen, I stepped to the table, i short speech. :id shipm i are about .til for other parts. Ilefore ue .square :r- !apc our course, U t me, in behalf of Lewey and myself, return thanks for the sailor- like treatment we have received at your ha;. hccr< for tin- Will, and then all held out their tin pots for a further supply of punch. 1 10 Lcivey and I. We complied with the mute, but significant appeal, and I continued roy address. u When we were threatened with arrest by a gang of land-lubber greasers you stepped to the front, and drove the scoundrels to their dens. W< shall never forget it, and hope some day to again see you, and to once more fill the grog tub at our expense. " There was a roar of applause, and, at its conclusion, Jack sprang to his feet, and replied to my speech. He said that he was an old man, and had knocked about the \vorl. 1 for fifty -five years. He had served in line-of-battle ships, frigates, and in mcr chantmen, and he wanted it understood that better shipmates he had never fell in with than Lewey and myself. We reminded him of one of Hums . which he could not remember very well, but would try and for the gratification of the company present, if any one desired him, and forthwith, without waiting for a vote on the subject, commenced howling the old song, M A man s a man for a that," but the noise and confusion was so great that we could not see the con nection between the song and ourselves, and, after Jack had \ellecl himself into an intense state of perspiration and thirst, there were loud calls for more punch, and thunders of applause for the song. We did not drink any of the mixture except once, in response to a toast honorable to ourselves, and to show that we were not too proud to share in the fun of the people on the beach. Had \ve refused to partake of a glass, in company with our guests, there would have been strong muttcrings of discontent, and this ,we desired to avoid, wishing to leave a good impres sion behind after we were gone. At nine o clock the punch was entirely consumed, and wistful glances cast around the room for more. No person was intoxicated, but all had enough (or one evening at least, and, when some of the kanakas ommenced :i and Jack proposed to sing another song, the people st:>le quietly out of t;.e mom, and sought the seclusion of their own quarters for the night. The Scotchman looked around in a dazed sort of manner, as though won- d ; why men should be so lacking in good taste, then blinked some , es to his iican s content, and went to bed, while we cleared up th room, gave it a good airing, and turned in also, thinking of what kind of a place we should find to sleeo in the next nijrht, when on our journey. Lewcy and I. ill The following day was bright and pleasant. We were up at an early hour, had a good swim, ted our horses with a little barley, packed our blan ket*, dressed in full suits of Mexican clothes, sombrero and leggings, pura and knives, and, after breakfast, saddled our animals, and then pre- pared to take leave of our old shipmate. "You know, boys," the Scotchman said, as his voice grew husky, and hii eyes moist, "that I is agin the whole thing. But you is bound to go, and go that s the end of it. But if you wants to come back your old bunks ad>- for you at any time, and you will always find a friend in Scotch Jack/ \\\- know it, old shipmate," we answered, "and perhaps we may return sooner than you expect. We shall leave all of our effects here, chests and bedding,- and if you never hear from us consider the property your own. Use it just as you please. We make you our heir-at-law." I don t care so much for the dunnage, lads, as I do for you," was the answer. " Come back to me, and the chests may go to blankation. But," and here the thoughtfulness and prudence of the Scot came in play, " jist you put them sentiments of yours in writin , and then everythin will be shipshape in case anythin should happen to you." We- readily complied with the request. We drew up papers, stating that Jack was to inherit all of our property, in case of death, and called in the master of the rival hide-house to witness our signatures, and, after that duty was performed, the question arose, for the first time, what we should do with our do.; Jack. The animal knew that we were making preparations for departure, and he was restless and anxious, for fear he would be left be hind. He moved about the house, around it, and then returned and looked in our faces, as if he desired to speak, and express his sentiments, if he was to he deserted. In this respect he was almost human, and his bright . eyes pleaded for consideration at our hands, as dog never did before, it seemed to us. skall ve do vid him ?" Lewey asked. " Vill ve takes him, or leaves him here vid our friend " I 11 look arter him. lads, if you desire me to do so," the Scot said, but the dog did not notice the kindness expressed. He wh gazed at us in a pitiful way, and almost barked his head off, as I re marked, 44 He will be lots of company for us, and a good lookout nights, when we camp out. Yes, let us take old Jack with us." :rics of ioyful yelps, and made frantic effort* to reach Lew my f.irc, so th.it he co : j ; ion it, and, when he found t! %; onsof affection, turned his attention to Lewey, an eivcd his full share of Jack ions of del - packed up in a bag a stock ol pilot 1 S salt, and a huge piece of old junk boi! -.ion, in case we should not encounter a ranehc d After we had stowed all the articles on rfona hido-houses gathered around, and in- ..iking hands, and, as so ";ad done so, the Scotchman it for three cheers, and they were given with a will, and then we mounted -lent mustangs, am hied down the road, and the last u !e W.T* the fatherly advice of the master of the rival hide-hoi: - I out, " Bo; > r have anything to do with em. The\ vaved hack a r cn<>nition of the intended kindness, and then we were loping a! ind the dog was nearly crazy at the prospect of : he had known all he was to encounter it is quite probable he remain on the beach, and live in idleness, the iny: the best fighter of the lot, and there , of the trail that led to Los Angeles, as we had made urit-rs and vaqucros who had crossed the plains and mouv ier and winter, and they had told us how to proceed by the - lc route. They said that the passage through the can yons of the Si .ins was the worst part of the journey, and vouM Inve to dismount, and lead our horses, as the :> also advised to keep a sharp ! >. and to shun both if possible, a^ a : with either \vo-.il \ \ > our renown in case of defeat. Of ^amc her-- ral-bits, deer, and quail, with an occasion al rrttlesn -.!.< tl rown in, by the 9 .riety. We needed no -,\ rdi CM n all occasions. \ l . ren while in California. Then : -c of acr; i,.id : iin s were filled with tr.uit, and no one but the I. ! them. tugh to enable us Lewcy and I. >) to use them on t trav with us, thinking that our us, and not he rendered uiicnmfort. la of their position in tens ovcrskirt and one under-garment being all .iit Lcwey. as we struck the trail, and headed North, leavi slee; -\ Diego in the rear, is de suhlimest of ha; :orc us. Ve is our o\vn. masters. I c shout I did n t i for, the truth was, I saw the dangers and t: our journey much more vividly before us than my friend, whose happ;. ture was like mercury in a glass, constantly going up and down, and gth of time. If wo should meet w r.h :i gri>ly bear, Lewey," I asked, "you would not !< it, 1 ho ild n t I?" was the indignant answer. " Vy, Jack and me could knock de vust bear in California end for end, and dink nothin of it." I h.L- -uhts on ihe subject, but did not express them, as I knc\v that Lcwcy hid made up his mind what he could do, and only reality \\ convince him to the contrary, and so we loped along the narrow trail, in- duL: ttion when in the mood, and walking our horses as soon as t .> of warmth. We left the 1 farm-house, where there were ten thousand cattle gr <r, all looking up at us in a strange, wild manner, at. threatening were thoir movements, because Jack had invaded their ret they !i ! not 1 ke his looks, thinking he was a strolling coyote, tl: save him from violence, and ourselves from a desperate char- mou the dog on the pummel of my saddle, where he ( quite co;. tl if he was aware of my kindness, and could anprcci..: ;e too much accustomed to horsemen to care fort thc\ k-u ; to that part of the and one 1 bull, tint had seen many a conflict, and beaten th- time again, uttered an ! >w, and moved slowly toward us. as if on tn i on. " Vc m;-t quicken d<? pace," said Lewey,"or de blanked bull vill be afoul of us, and ca-ry avay our !I 4 Ltwey and I. This was his nautical manner of expressing fear that the bull would knock us over, in case he should use his horns in desperate earnestness. Just as we were about to touch our horses with the spurs, out from the high chapparel and tall grass, on the side of the trail, burst a wild-looking ranchero, with long black hair, two-thirds Indian and the balance poor Mexican blood, mounted on a splendid mustang, that was quivering with life and exciterf1**,xunder the stimulant of a pair of cart-wheel spurs, "which jingled as the fellow rode toward us, circling a iround his head, and uttering fiendish shouts, whether of welcome or defiance we could not tell. "Prenez garde," whispered Lewey, forgetting his English for the mo, ment, and we would have halted, and awaited the approach ot the vaquero, to see what his intentions were, but that confounded bull was near tht heels of our horses, and we did not care to encounter the horns of the animal. We unslung our rifles, and laid them across our saddles, all ready for use, in case there was danger in that whirling lariat, but, whether the hall-breed saw the motion, ordid not intend any demonstrations except those of a friendly nature, he swept past us like a whirlwind, and brought the reata down upon the rump of the angry bull, beating him until he changed his se, and was glad to seek shelter among the members of his harem. It was all done so quickly, and so easily, that we could not prevent a bud exclamation of approval. "Bueno, senor," we shouted, and the fellow grinned, and curled up his pommel of his saddle, then removed his sombrero, and saluted the -race and politeness of a prince of the royal blood of most any kingdom you might happen to think of. " BUC: e ranchero said, as he advanced, and reined yp "The bull is apt to be troublesome to strangers, but * on his flanks are enough to teach him a lesson for a short time. II it^na been for your dog he would have failed to notice you." urned his salutation, and re-slung our rifles over our shoulders, saw that he had no evil intentions respecting ourselves. We also the man for his services, not that there was much danger f, r we i have easily kept out of the animal s way bv spurring Wr Steeds to nill speed. "Where are you from? and what is the latest news?" the stranger asked. "We left San Diego this morning and are bound for Los Angeles, 115 ept that queros arc a lit- tic dearer, him. "That is goo- .11 kill many c..: 1 :nuch money for the hides and tallow. Is t. war? 1 hear that there is trouble between Mexico and , Do you k -..ingot the matter?" ,y rumors/ was our ready answer. " \Ve trust the cloud will soon >er. Mexico is a great nation, and her people are \ . She : IJL- magnanimous toward the United Sta: r, it is true," and the man s face was expressive of pleasure at the compliment. Is either of you senors an Americano ? " I ready response. " We are both French, and like 11 that we expect to remain here all of our days." .->," the ranchero said. 4 * But, as you are traveling t!,: the country, of course you have papers from the authorities pcrmitii ; If not too much trouble I should like to see your documents. I /een told to be on the lookout for all who journey to and fro." "There is a paper from the alcalda of San Diego," Lewey remarked, 1 for us in case we need it. Read, if you please," and the doc- handed to the ranchero, who looked it all over, even to t!: of the official, hut, as he could not comprehend a word that was written on the paper, it was passed back to us in a ^rand and dignified manner, just as if the half-breed was an intelligent scholar. Any piece of writing would have answered as well, as far as the vaquero was concerned. A written document was a mystery in his eyes, and yet he would not let us know that he was incapable of understanding all that passed his examination. "The paper is correct, senors," the Mexican said. " Pardon me f r it. I wish that you had time to go to the casa, and partake of refreshme We shook our heads, and intimated that we had not the time, and hoped n some other r! " Then perhaps the senors have a piece of tobacco that they can 5; the ranchero, in a polite tone, and with a profound \Ve had a good s >f k <>n hand for our pipes, but did not let the fell all that we possessed, as we feared it might excite his cupidity, so we cut a iccc from a hand, and the man was just as well - given him a pound. We asked about our route, and were told to follow the trail, that we ind L should fuiu of water at the various springs, at the foot of the >cd to avoid large herds of cattle, if possible, or 5 did not l.ke ; , a gen- /ralthin-. Til cd our h.. and sej .. Jack on -die ground, to his -rent deli-ht, as the bullocks a us, and no longer i- a >""r; \\\t\ .::onto courteous ranchern," I sai 1, as wo rode aba-, and, looking : sombreros at the stranger, who returned the salu; . . cut our throats for de t t been arme- . remarked, with a 1 ter. "You don t know do greasers yet, and you . till you i At k ist it was lucky that we had our papers to show him," 1 remarked. "Vi; it do? was the question. " He cannot read or vite, and a: rs on em answer for him. If he ha . for him,* which was quite true, but s great readiness in killing people was not ik it pleasant to shoot Mexicans, and ride off : the feat. frien I, " d it I stated ve vas both French. I : icanos is not in de good oder jist at dis time, lint de Frenchman, he r jberywhere, for de France is a great nation, and all love him." was so sublime I let it go unchecked, but readily I ! that I would pass as a countryman of his where we deemed it ad- :e to conceal my nationality. About twelve came to a spring of runnMg water located near some trees, at the foot of a high hill, where the pasturage was good. Here we determined to halt foi a time, eat our dinners, and feed our horses. We unsaddled the beasts, and piquettcd them by the aid of lariats, so they could not return to the town, and then built a fire, made a pot of coffee, nnd ate and pilot bread we had brought with us. Not a house or a human being was in si-hr. \Ve were in one of the wilds of California, rcr land, or a finer location for a farm, rould not have been found in the w ; i is rich and luxuriant, and the water supply ample, at that season of the year. 1 .suppose all that portion of territory is and I. 117- now oranges. It me soli. ^lad to once m. . one of t I seemingly ii. 10 our pi< ,ted to i , but I co 10 let them alone, a- ouid not very weii ur next halt- i told him \ve should have plenty of chances to get all the decf ::e would tiril/ have patience, and, for a wonder, he acquiesced in my vie -hot. Mowing from the hi^h moua- -.. seen in the f.ir distance, an-! we loped on :a an eav wouM not tiiv a O f fatigue, but I>- liccrfully, smelling of every s itch for {rame, or something that wanted a .nkul upon the journey as a and. when we drew rein, and \v.. . while he saw a sneaking coyote or deer, off in c n onfident of or all t :n. and he did not mean any thing ;y it. ; i ten minut-s, and would rib/:. than himself. to look fora place to camp for the I --.it. when we had climhed a hill, , . . . udtL-r. her < valk. as we did not the footsteps Lewey and I. signal she was afraid of us, or doubted the honesty of our intentions in thus iniruuing on her privacy. A cur came bounding around the corner of the house, a cross between a coyote and a sheep-dog, and made a dash at Jack, but our game little animal uttered a growl of defiance, seized the canine by his neck, -ave him one rough shake, and then the stranger uttered a howl of regret that he had made such an attack, put his tail between his legs, and ran away, and, when at a safe distance, stopped and barked at us. He imagined for a mo- mentthat a mountain lion had been encountered by mistake. \Ve dismounted from our horses, tied them to a post near the doorway, and then Lewey opened c conversation with the female of the house, en deavoring, in his usual seductive way, to assure her that we had no evil intentions. " Senorita," he cried, as he pounded on the door, " we are amigns. You need not fear us. We intend no harm. We are strangers, and have lost our way." There was no response to this touching appeal, and Lewey looked a little discouraged, but still did not relinquish all hope that he might induce the woman to communicate with him. " Will you not speak to us ? the French lad exclaimed. " We are trav elers, and the best of Catholics, and respect women next to the saints, "and still the lady of the house showed no signs of relenting, and, just as my friend was about to tempt her with some more pretty words, we heard the sharp click of a gun-lock, and, glancing around, saw that we were covered by a musket, enormous in its proportions, as far as length and bore were concerned, and at the stock of the gun was a villainous-looking face, and the uncombed, long hair of a dark, dirty, tall, lank, wrinkled, half-breed jcr. " Vamous," said the owner of the gun, a flint lock concern, that would .ibout half a pound of buckshot, and powder in proportion, and, con found the fellow, he held the musket perfectly steady, and covered us in such a manner that one of us would have been blown all to pieces had the man fired in our direction. Jack made a motion to rush on the Mexican, and give him a sample of his jaws, but we called to the dog, and forced him to lie down, and wait for fresh negotiations. * Ami ^o, said Lewey, who would not show the slightest fear, although I have no doubt he felt a little tribulation in the presence of that awful blun derbuss. " put up your gun, and join us in a friendly.smoke. We have some Lcwey and I. nice cigarettes, and kr. .iballero like yourself will enjoy .. Who arc \ :ed ihe greaser, apparently willing to : tor he removed the gun from his shoulder, and t his face. - \Vo are travelers on our way to Los Angeles, and would stop here to night, if it please you and the lady of the house. 1 .HI arc not agents of the government then ? You do not come here to spy out my possessions so that a tax can be laid on then. the an. , e are gringos, and you have nothing to fear from i: -ew- ey s ready ans " What country do you belong to ? You are not Mexicans. That 1 tell by your words," the half-breed said, as he grounded the stock ot his for- ,le gun, and took a step forward. "We are I r.incia marineros, and traveling through the country f< sake <-f seeing it. We have no money, but a little tobacco, and a gentle- man like -hall share it." .ere is Francia?" asked the greaser. " I have heard of Americano An d i. but no other country, except Mexico, the pow ed the indignant I If the greatest country in the WOI ore soldiers and ships than there are cattle upon your pia the land of the great Napoleon." -ard of him." was the reply. "Was he a ranchero? own many horses and cattle ? " at Lewey was speechless with astonishment and He ha ..ilnst the hitching-post for support, ar. . ,kc-l at me in a mute appeal for help t could express his consternation that there lived a I never heard of the deeds and battles of the " Gre* Napofcon." r.wleon," I said, coming to the relief of my friend, in a ti nc . i.whcn the latter turned on him, the r*at man vamouscd the ranche." lt i. f nn[l .1 my French friend, in a low tone, tor we did not c.irr to let th<- Mexican hem I did not answer the question, for the owner of the prem s *un n side, to-.ichtd hi.s mimed sombrero, and I the pMt wWMi **m a beggar of $iauis.h.desceiit c^tt. assume, - Lewey and /. is. Such as the house affords is at y".r d , to do with as you pleu>e. J wish, and return when ; e. The door \\iii a i \\.iy.-, he open lor And now 1 will try one of your cigarettes, ii . ,- no .-i.il. He lighted ope, and smoked away with evi led to unsaddle our horses, .. ..cl i room, where there and l and f Is as a man who is isoL .tion i 1 he likely to accumulate in the course of man y years, i he !\k\ :o lend us . hand. It was none of his Imsiness how .parted. He furnished shelter, and s ; ut the labor of removing saddles, or putting them i-n hfi did not care to incur. It was not the custom ot s the host kept half a dozen vaqueros in his employ, to ! perform odd jobs of work. (juette<l our mustangs where the grass was good, and then returned an, still squatting near the tire, and throwing his whole i nient of .-> vident he had not i. sted tolxicco e joined him, "do you not think that you had better :/ of the house? We noticed th . : at our ihe will be pleased to learn that we are friends and ixiety nni.^t l>e inte: "I- "I had lorgott-n the women. Th.- the sm )ke fn.m my nostrils. I will call them.".: Clouted, so that all couM hear him. >me fort!,. \Ve have friends IR-. i he :U s hcsi! iee.1 woman, without shoes, feet that were hard an,] .arm.-nl. , sc . i;alf-sullen jflaQCC, as t! uas not or repiidi.it - us tin: : iU women, ;rcntly admired. la- - m - imJ , auvl i more agreeable txpre . . i ie answer. " She . 1 will harm i. J tell her tij.it a Mexican genik ina . i to .mily should second tlic pro.i .1 oi AC heard this g .1 mentally calcula; ;ini; wit: <1 yet the . .1, \\itli million t 1 in a cool, contented manner, tlien \N could hear a little ,:rl. who !. ud of bcin^ picked . W were a little a until she turned her h- UP. Then we 1 fore the prettiest little half-c .i day, as she wta dazril in their length and thick;: -i-h her feet i resm.ill.T .- stepped out of th.it m in the Choicest of Kren : -om of t ; ; . in beauty of fai^ and (pun. ... - 122 Lewey and /. Lewey, always on the lookout for a handsome countenance, and desirous of making an impression, sprang forward, hat in hand, to salute the little lady, and, as he poured forth a torrent of compliments, the girl looked up full in his face, and, for the first time, seemed to awaken to the fact that a nice young man was addressing her with more respect and politeness in his tones than she had ever heard in her uneventful life, or could hope for again. The look of timidity passed from her classical features, and her glorious black eyes appeared more brilliant than ever. " Confound the fellow," I thought. " He will play the mischief with that girl s heart unless I interfere, and save her," and, for that laudable purpose, stepped forward, and made a few remarks that I thought quite appropriate. With all the coquetry of a girl s nature the little lady turned her attention to me, and actually smiled at my endeavors to speak Spanish as fluently as my friend. She thought that heaven was near, for here were two white young men paying her marked attention, and treating her with a deference she had never before experienced, so she gave us each a word of good nature, and then drew the inner garment of her dress a little more tightly over her shoulders, so that a finely formed bust should not be exposed to our rude gaze. "Confound you, what did you come and poke your nose in this mess for?" asked Lewey, in French. " To keep you out of mischief, you bad boy," I answered. " I know you, what you are capable of, and what you are thinking of. For once in your life please not to exert the power of your fascinations. This little girl does not know the meaning of love, and, if you continue as you have begun, we shall leave behind us a sad heart tomorrow." " Ikit why should we leave tomorrow ? " my friend asked. "We are in no hurry. Time is no object with us. If we do not start for a week no one will blame us for delay on the route," still speaking French. " I shall go tomorrow even if I have to travel alone," was my response. * I will not 1ft you play havoc with the girl s peace, just to gratify your con founded vanity. You are already half in love with her, and in a day or two there will be promises of marriage, and you never would fulfill them. The girl is no nritc i for you. Let her alone, and treat her coldly as I do," and then, when the little lady asked me what I was saying in a strange tongue, I had to lie a bit, and say that we were complimenting her eyes and face, and she tossed her head and smiled la a manntr that showed how much of Lewty and I. * woman she was in feeling, in spite of the disadvantages under which she had labore J all her life. The mother and father looked on, and smoked, in quiet enjoyment. They did not understand the dangerous position of the daughter, for love had long since died out of their hearts, and they would have laughed at such a sentiment. I think that if either of us had asked the padre to bestow his daughter s hand in marriage, he would have consented without a thought of the future, only stipulating that the husband should be a good Catholic. That would have been the only proviso he cared to make on such a solemn occasion, so fraught with the future welfare of a girl. At last the smoking was concluded, and then the mother and daughter commenced preparations for supper. The stone for cookin:.; tortillas was heated, the corn soaked in the usual way among Mexicans, an earthern pot was put on the fire, filled with bits of meat, peppers, and some vegetables, then Lewey went with the girl to a spring, and brought fresh water in a calabash. He was making himself useful, but if the daughter had not been pretty he never would have cared to do the labor that he did on that occasion. * Ve vill contribute toward the supper from our own stores," whispered the French lad. " Ve vill not be mean here, not one bit." " Especially since there is a pretty girl to share in the feast," I * . ed, but Lewcy would admit nothing that was detrimental to himself. - a Frenchman," he said proudly, " and one of dat nation alvays ad mire de booful. Get out de coffee, de sugar, de bread, and say no more about it, or, by gar, I dink you jealoui of your old ami, and love de girl yours \Ye surprised the people with our contributions, and what pleased them more than words can express was the taste of coffee, well sweetened with ujjar, aiul a few cakes of pilot bread, something they had seldom seen before, cxo .-j-t when a visit was occasionally made to San Diego, and even then the mother and daughter were not invited to make the journey 01 rare intervals. It was not such a bad supper, for we were hungry, and had good appe tites for sauce. There was a lack of spoons, knives, and were convenient, even if not clean as soap and water couhl make them. y loaned his spoon to the young girl, and she was p while ihc fither and mother were content with such as they ha from wood, neither small nor graceful, but large enough to hold about B Lewey and /. of liquid, so tin .1! up qui when hungry, and had a hot olia Ix Wh. .:can told us all of his history. He liked the country where he was located, as he had unlimited quantities of land, and no neighbors to interfere with his rights. He owned a few tl: e or two hundred horses, but the latter were of little 1. The only disagreeable incidents of his 1 ; when the 1 raid through the country, from what is now called the southern part of Arizona, crossing the mountains throu, the existem e of whi .h was known only to themselves, as the Mexicans had never .or dared to follow the lawless bands, or punish tl,< driving of: I capturing prisoners. More than two years had now 1 since the Indians put in an appearance, and the lather seemed to think that they would trouble him no more. He once scat :ul that approached his h.uise by tiring a broadside from his formidable old musket, and in that one discharge killed two painted warriors, and wounded as many more, and it seemed to satisfy the Indians that the vicinity of the adobe i dangerous place, so they left him. but made work with his stock, diiving l :t nearly half that he owned, and more than fifty horses. [". . : cared nothing about, and the sava--i-s we: -m. " Think." siid L.- v dangerous it is for your wife and daughter h an exposed place. What if the Indians should make a ime day, when you were absent from home?" loulders as he answered, . I .ut the Indian who laid a hand on my :t it." and the Mexican smiled in a significant ri: :ioney hands of his spot: : c had s< tic affairs that were valuable. : itr-r? Surely you would feel badly if anything vitil id ? " Lewey said, i Indian, or signs of them, better than a hawk. Hei . when she runs, is only equaled by tl deer. can take care of herself when I am absr.Mt from honv nild come to her relief like the wind, uith eed and sturdy lariat. quirk look a Pi face, and so did Lewey, but no : them with n, She ; I U | ; and /. ranchero, the one we had met in the morning. It i.eart had not been touched by his bold . wild-look 1 settled down upon the distant mountains and , the coyotes were abroad, and calling to each other : 1 he tire was last dying out, oni\ . faint breeze swept through the palio, and stirred tin The husband and wife smoked our cigarettes with great n.li ? h, am. t pretty daughter, with a scrape over her shoulders to keej. elf the h < dew and coid night air, neither looked at us, nor moved from her -azed at th-.- <!\in_; ember*, as if she was endeavoring to read her future s, and then, as I glanced at her sweet face, so sad ami o beautiful, just as the last flame leaped up, and expired with a faint crack- )e, I saw Le-.vey s blanket move, pulled a little carelessly over his left and knew that under cover of that useful article he was holding squeezing one of the girl s dark but well-formed hands, and that, f>: first time in her life, she was drinking in all the bliss that a young woman can hen half inclined to be in love with a good-looking man. . ne, Lewc in English, but he made no reply, neither did he remove his hand, and, just as I was about to rise, and terminate the cj, . shrill scream, a yell, so loud and terrible, that I sj up, and only had time to seize Jack, who had been si my side, and prevent him : into the darkness, and inv the 8, for his hai: vect with the rage that ; his great he.- l.-d to free himself from my hold, and growled an .it all interference in his movements. Lew- ; nj the girl s hand, but the rest of the did not imve or manifest any great amount of agitation or fear. Again that shrill, fierce scream fell upon our ears, but this time nearer, in the direction of our horses, which were piquetted near the court- We couM hear them snort and paw the ground in thcii tire to break a i the stout reatas that held them fast. we asked, as we sprang for our riiUs, which were leaning >t the house, all loaded, and ready for use. mountain lion," answere 1 the Mexican, puffing at a cigarette not venture near us as long aa there U fire amonjj the vour horses ne the : .inci, if he is, there . \\\\\ leap on one, and make a hearty supper. This thiei of Lewey and I. the devil has been on the ranche for the past two weeks, and some night I shai: have to kill him. Quien sabe ? " :->ok our rides, and, as we did so, the greaser s dog came creeping to the fire, his tail between his legs, and ears drooping, trembling all over. He looked at every one in a pitiful sort of manner, as if ready to protest in case icked out from his safe position into the darkness. 4k Down, Jack," I said, as sternly as I could, when releasing my hold of the dog, for he showed no sign of fear, and wanted to dart off in i -ursuit of the sir ->t, and I have no doubt but that he would have tackled the brute if he had been encouraged to do so. There was nothing he except an unkind word from his masters. Jack obeyed, but uttered an angry protest, and growled defiance at the ,g foe. If we had allowed the game little fellow to fallow his in clinations it would have been his last night on earth, for the mountain lion could have crushed him with a blow of his powerful paw, strong as that of a leopard (an animal of a similar species), then thrown the dog over his shoulder, and strolled off toward the mountains to feast at his leis 1 ,: When the savage beast uttered his shrill scream, the coyotes on the hills ceased their sharp barks, and seemed to listen so that they co note the presence of their fearful foe, and not disclose their own position in the darkness. ;e care that he does not spring on you," the Mexican father said, as he threw on a few more fagots of wood, and kindled up the fire, just as we were ready to go the rescue of the horses, who were struggli;. straining at the reatas, and shaking with terror. The host did not seem inclined to lend us a helping hand, \vh : M strange, and a little impolite, but the man supposed we \\ere just as much accustomed to the ways of that vast solitude as he was, and that istance was required on his part. In this he was mistaken, but to preserve his respect it was necessary to show no fear. Just as we were f the young -^irl arose, threw off her scrape, and said, "The senors are strangers, father. They may not know the ways of a ned horse, or the cunning of a mountain lion. I will O with them, to the c.ilwllos. They always respect a woman s voice, or the touch of her hand, because it is more gentle than that of a man, ai.ci in spires them with courago. Come, senors, I am i But we held back. We did not desire to involve the little girl in any ! waited for the father and mother to utter a remonstran- one was spoken by them. They seemed to ihiok that the offer on the Lewey and /. young lady s part was a natural one, and not worthy of remark or protest. >ve, what courage the little beauty possessed. She was not one to squeal at the sight of a mouse, or to go into spasms if a spider alighted on her dress, or a grasshopper tickled her ankle. I could not help admiring her .is >!>j stood near us, her well-formed head thrown back, and her bright , like the stars above. I was enabled to note her pose and orbs by the aid of the tire, that was now burning up bright!) :! form, long b .ack hair, and scant dress. How little did J \\ Lewey s account she was anxious to go, and, if posit ive lii-n from all harm. i. .main by the fire," the French lad said. " We ned not : he wild beast is terrible in his rage, and w fear for your Ul make a *j" for me," was the response. " I can take care of myself. . The lion is near once m oke there arose another shrill yell, and then, in the rear of the . \ t.vo fir is silver dollars, it seemcu to us, and, a word, : \ girl bounded toward the savage an I uttertd but two words. i, and the lion disappeared in the darkness, prowls of protest as it slunk away. r, and found that she was stroking the horses with her them in a soft, soothing tone, and they seemed to comprehend her, for they ceased to tremble, and put their velvet noses on her rounded neck, and uttered the peculiar cry that mustangs use when i, or are favored \\ith the presence of one they like. Although the night was cool the animals were reeking with perspii i we unfastened the reatas, and led the beasts to ward the house, their expressions of joy \\ere rpite human. >ten them near the out-building, Florercia," the father s.iid, "and them a mess of barley on the ground. One of us will have to sit up to keep the fire going, and the lion at a distance, otherwise th siiUl not be safe, unless let 1- .v do the caballo* and cattle on the plains csrapc th- of th . asked, as we secured our animals, and the girl em; "i the ground before them, for which they appeared lul, as they f<- It is only the we. . at the li those which have been separated from the herds," was the answer. H Th Lewv and L - and the bulls u.rm a 1 ; . kick anil toss anything h the mares or cows, night IT day. t ; .>ly bear -> >u* how i: mob of c.ittl.r, for there is death in a stu i s hevls. and g i the quick pi iv of .1 lively hull s horns. i by die 1., I, ami a mountain linn will pull it down, and devour it in a short time. Tljere is the diablo n, prowling around, and seeking a supper, lie must be hungry to act > >id. Florencia, throw a brand toward the brute, and then go to bed. It is lime your eyts were closed for the night. The senors will excuse you." I will sit by the fire, and keep it burning," I, without look- up. " Xo, it is useless, " was the response. " The do that by taking turns. They have guns, and can shoot the beast if it approaches Why can t we do that now?" Lewey asked. We have rifles, and know how to use them." "The mountain lion is a hard beast to kill," the M>\ir,n remarked. u can test your guns if you wish, but, to pr_v< nt mistakes, think I will have my old escopeta at hand. Bring it to me, girl, also the machete. rie in play if :he beast makes a spring." The girl arose without a word, and brought from the house the old mus- .uid also the machete, or heavy chopping-knife, such as the Mexicans I for cutting down brush, or thick chapparel. She p : a:c i them in his h.unls, and once more sat down by the fire, and did ntst . al- i her>elf, I noticed that she to position from the first one she assumed, that is, she was lu t-Acen I.ewcv and the prowiing mountain lion, and if a spring was nvide by the fL-roci.-us beast she would be more likely to receive the encounter than my French friend. Was it an accident or intentional that she thus placed herself in so much er ? No one could tell by the expression of her face what was her 1 ;t, for it betra\cd neither emotion nor fear. " The women wi.l enter ihc house," the father said. " It is safer for them. Men only should light lions." The mother lighted a fresh cigarette, and entered the building. The id not stir. .11 remain, and help the strangers," she said, and displayed a second etc, which she had concealed in the skirts of h- 44 She is not afraid," the father said, and nodded toward his child. " Sh ,Y /. _^rs,and never yet quailed. She is a true daughter of I I am her father." .ere alxnit to utter some complimen .r once TTK :ing lion uttered a shrill yell, and this tiinv n as. We could see his firey cye< as he s > when brought together with a 11 nont in not obtaining an early supper. red Lewey, and up went the rifles 1 : . , ! the same moment, full at tl; ^c and threatening. 11. a rcr.r, and then we could hear the Least re . :. itching and tearing at the grass, and sna iry. .ill the saints, but I believe you luvc hit the d xicin ^ed at the accuracy of our aim. " Girl, th in the direction of the beast, and let your c if another " N . mgerous for the senorita to do so. Let me i:u ur all i He snatched the burning fagot from her hand, and threw it with all his ! i in the direction of the wotinde-: ning brand, we could see a body rolling o\ r, and itids on the held and shoul!crs. I h.i - : mi in rammi: g nothcr bullet in my rifle, thinking . ready! )iil.!cr. Ther. .ind the greaser was kicked aero s the cou: nul for a mo:v,ent I feared that the man injured, but he picked himself up, and muttered, no, I kno\v I have fitiished him." am! he was nearly correi t in his - tnd, when I told ! i hrill bark t, and bounded out into r fnl owed. Then we heard somr r-umc bacl; fler a mom ly, and u h as to say, " I have finished our mutual enc: I the "ou. 130 Lewey and /. The girl lighted a fagot, and walked toward the dead beast without siga of fear. "He is muerto," she said, and held the flame of the stick so nsar the lion s mouth that she singed the long whiskers around his nose. " \Ve h.ive done well/ the Mexican cried. " See, here are three wounds. But my shot did the business after all." And so it appeared, for the charge from the escopeta had made a most hideous hole in the lion near the right shoulder, while the balls from our rifles had lodged in the head and neck, either of which would have caused death in time, but not immediate dissolution. At any rate, it he had -.1 on us we might have been injured, and perhaps the little girl maimed for life, before we despatched the brute. A good night s work, senors," said the Mexican. The lion has been roaming over the plains and hills for the last few weeks, and worried the cattle. Caramba, but he can do no more damage. Tomorrow I will skin him, and sell the quero the next time I visit San Diego. Senors, accept mil gracias for the part you have performed. It was a lucky moment when you made my house your home for the night, and as much longer as you please to stay." The girl said nothing. I was inclined to doubt the truth of the man s assertion. I was a!r;;U that it would be the most unprofitable incident for the senorita that she had ever experienced in her young life, for I imag ined that she had looked upon my friend s face, and lost her heart and peace of mind at the same time, as 1 knew Lewey well enough to know that no inducement on earth could prevail upon him to remain and marry the girl, thus buryii \ from all society and civilization. He was a flirt, and it was born in him, and no experiences on his part, no dangers that he encountered, were suflkicn.t to restrain his roving propensities, or keep him from pouring compliments into willing ears. I doubt if :. ren yet dulled his interest in a sweet face and graceful form, married man that lie is, and the father of a family, small, but as large as French customs .t the present time amon^ the aristocracy of his country. "Shall we have one more cigarette before we retire for the ni-ht?" asked the and the irl seemed to second the request, for she a quick look at Lewey, and then dropped her eyes. all means," crie l my fr . nj his pi;>c and tobacco, but I put a veto on the measure. "The senor I know will excuse us." I s:ii<I. " We h day, and under a warm sun. Tomorrow we must start early, and make a Lewey a> 133 v retire \l ave no o-. .." Lcwey Crumbled in 1 r i!, and not see dl : a partii i say not one vortl, but vink at it all cie tiin hut ::it of that pretty little child of nature I \\ Mould no longer trifle wi:h her affections, if J I had don- id be a long time before the se- \ >rds and warm iooks, so well c.. : h a child as Flora Dors," tli : {. when he found that ! . ; you lor >lerpin^ quarters i.> thr sh cd. There is noth- nterfere with your slumbers. PI- and may the saiiits have you in their keeping now an. ^irl. \ i up until thi ; late hour, when it is your i to lie down with the susi ? Your motii-r has l-.-eri a>k- M me for b.-in^ proiane, but, .. note he: : kirt-p it up all ni.ctit, and in the ru \v her sleep is like an iniant s. Santa Maria, but hear her ;o it. 1 wonder she d- help arrange the room in which the senors will s .ecj senors are travelers, and need not be particular in this You need not fc nere will be nothing but coyotes ; care.^ for t 1 be sure to keep at a distance from the hccU of the ca esc words, the father motioned the -irl to enter ed her, but did not close the door, as we expected he would do. nttered Lewey ; "but den it am de custom of de country, :;n." > burninjj fajot we cleared a spare wh- "ikcts, an morn- - But, troufcNH wr wcrc.itlrtr*****. ^ id but Lewcy and I. a short nap, for I was awakened by an unusually loud bark of a venture some coyote, and looking out upon the coin . lank animal near the door of the house, as though engaged in reconno see if it in to enter, and hunt for a supper. I threw a club at the in truder, and told Jack to keep quiet, for the dog was restless, having been tied to a beam, to keep him out of danger while we slept, and thtn turned over, and, to my surprise, found that I was alone. LLV, <. ; i.a\iiii; Disappeared while I slept. In an instant I was wide awake, and on my feet. I understood the mat ter as plainly as if I had been informed of all that h -; ired \\hile I slept. Out of the building I went, and walked away from the house some little distance, but saw no one. Then I turned, and strolled in the direc tion of the dead mountain lion, which the coyotes gave a wide berth, for fear it might not be as defunct as it appeared. Near the animal I heard low voices, and one of them was that of Florencia, and the other my friend Lewey s. " I swear to you," the French lad was saying, " that I loved you the first moment my eyes rested on your face. It is beautiful ; more charming than the fairest girl in San Diego. Give me but one kiss to prove you do not dislike me, and let me hope that when I am gone from here you will not for get me in a day, or a week. Assure me of that, and I will think of you so often, until I return, that even your warm nature will rejoice. 1 "Take the kisV the girl answered. " It is not much to give one like you. liut as for thinking of me when you are in another part of the State, I do not believe it. I wish that I could, for then I should be happy even if I am separated from you." The wretch put his arms around the form of the girl, and took not only- one kiss but a dozen, and she did not seem to shrink from his embrace, as she should, and would have done, had she known the French lad as well as I did. I thought it time to interfere. I was resolved that the artless little girl shouM not further commit herself, even if Lewey s assertions were s.ncere, an.! >ns to doubt them, for although he could fall in love with mu -h rapidity, it was also certain that he got over his passion just as swiftly, and without a particle of heartache. He was a true Frenchman in ^ respect, and did not believe in moping when it was possible to b gav. As I advanced the girl sprang from my friend s arms and muttered, " SanU Maria, I thought it was my padre. If he should find me here it would be death to both of us. He would chop us to pieces with his mache* le, and laugh at out te will nut lisp a Lewey said, in a i then, tun. __ t iu de u. . I. For shanu :ove to such a little \\ .c, so tha 1 . and talk no more of 1<> .i,j n j c i know that ra ie present time. Conf i miserable flirt, how many do you desire to be engaged to at the same time ? " ur own business, and let m to n. ,iy friend said, in a petulant tone " I interfer make to all de females of i onc :M. Go back to your blankets, and let alone me. S nott. The girl stood listening to the cor. . carried on in low tor, that the terribh padre would not be d, and with her ; i. She could not um! : Uc uttcre 1. but she B . would to Lewey s, and a> - \V:-,.it are you talking about? Speak in J I that is going on." n tone, " I will not take offence at your words, :>ecn friends tor many years, and never h.: quarrel that time. I now appeal to your better nature . a young one to be sure, to let the girl enter the house, and promise to see her no pi ore I does not," he asked, in a sullen tone, " vot de;. : s. As soon as daylight comes I shall saddle my horse, tr.d a to San Diego alone. We part forcv he pleaded, a;; .> e . link so, but in a < > our If you love her so much, remain here. , I to start } happy on this sol!; (> ut of th- and tell me if you \\ili take the little child for yo \ou an hour." oas you viah," was cr. I am not de kind of man to Lewey and /. I vi.>h dat I could, for si * l 1 ^ booful f.tces." "Go into the house, senorita," I said. "Your father might awaken, and then there would he trouble. L)o not stir out again this ni^ht." Jrl looked at Lewey for advice. He pretended not to W the ; .vatching the stealthy movements of a sneaking coyote :itivcly. For a moment she hesitated, then, receiving no w . my friend, turned toward the house, but, as she did -,1 forward, and seized my hand, pressed it to her lips i:. u huir.c.N .md whispered, or, I know not what you have said, but mil grnrias for your word* and piesence here tonight. May you both be happy will ever be the pray er of pcbrecita Florencia," and she was gone. i heard a sob, and saw Lewey brush away some dampness that ha ered in his eyes. u poor boy," I said, as I sprang forward, and threw my arms arour .1 his neck, "are you as hard hit as this denotes ? Do you really lov. girl?" , I dink I does," was the answer. " But I skall get ober it in a lit- fie dime. I is a fou vare de vomen is concerned." " How many do you think you could love at one time ? " I asked. I knows not, but I skall like to try. 1 dink clat I could vorshi;. a mil lion if dey vas all booful, and did not plague me vid der jealousy. Now mine ami, I is all right vonce more, and vc vill sleep to go till do monow/ 1 There was no other incident during the night. I.cwey slept, and, per- s, dreamed of the object of his worship, but he did not move out of the shed until I called him a little after daylight, just as the people in the were stirring. Then we arose, packecf our blankets and traps, piqu our horses out to graze, filled a large calabash with water, and ha 1 .1 wash, a proceeding that made the greaser look on, and \\> the wife to smile in a sarcastic manner, as though she could not see the n-vd of such useless proceedings, while Flo.-cncia wet her face and hands at the spring, and dried them on a cloth that must h.; in the family n years, and had never been what the women rail " boi ed out." i:\rlcd the fire, and mixed the us-ial di^h of t prepared an olia, which she was to cook in a Ma.r ^.nhen pot, ^n- had been licked by a coyote the night before, and, to prevent our stom from being turned, Lewey snatched the crock up, and went to rhr spring, Lrwey and 1. 137 giving t !;lc \\itl I em in the K-ast offended at my ofiicio- i , but the rich blood mounted the dark chce -. mie that did not find vent in \\ i haveiindoii itrastcd her sun on ridings \\ith were Oui md lamented her fate more bitterly than before. ;i we contributed our share to the :. a lilt. .md su* gir. :ier a hearty meal, smoked until the sun arose, ami v. to be on our w:. . Then we kaddlcd ur aniin.il them, nnd were ready for our long journey over the trail, and touattis the oioun; in-, nursilves into the saddles. ith \ou." and we touclu-d our sombreros, and t; salutation. The wife smiled on us, and bade us come ; ; ICC us at any time. o .md to bid Florencia farewell, but the ,;e had di ! when we put the saddles on the anim tls. i .-aid, tl rn v.c an coui . ;iail, Jack at the horses heels, gl.id to L WOrd, b Jt he often looked back to see : lady. For ten minutes or mm along, ami th chapparel pat; enci . ;i the trail, an .1 uttei . attention to me. He spurred on li . j impo 1 from the saddle to the i i 1 kissed her several tiim-> witlx.ut an;. i line. nil n(.t . ,\c me without saying one word of f.u \ wish mv |>adie to notice our , (. The . ! irk han !. aji horn his resting 1 then, just about fiity fall tahtd Ei . 138 Lewey and 7. side of us, and uttered a shrill yell of triumph, and brandished long lances, tn which wore hung locks of human hair and feathers, and it did not take nd glance to reveal to us that the strangers were wild Indians, admi rably mounted on hardy mustangs, and silting the animals without the aid of saddles or stirrups, bridles or head gear of ^ny kind to guide their horses, as untamed as the riders. All this we sa\v, and then realized that we were in the presence of a roving band of Indians from the other side of the mountains, scouring the plains in the hope of securing plunder, in the shape of caitle and women, scalps and horses, and, in the days ot \\hich I write, the savages did a large business in the southern part of California, crossing the mountains when they pleased, for there was no one to make them afraid, or drive them back to what is now known as Arizona, then a wilderness, and the home of the fierce, treacherous Apache Indians, and members of this tribe were now before us calculating on an easy ronquest. CHAPTER V. THE APACHE ATTACK. PAINTED WARRIORS, AND THKIR CHARGE. 1H TO THE INDIANS. RETURN TO THE RANCH!:.!!. it. A HORSE TRADE. OUR JOURNEY Ri TUB K BUZZARDS AND COYOTES. TROUT FISHING. RAN CHK VALLMCITO. A PROPOSITION. THE NIGHT CAMP, AND A APPARITION, * I "HE only Indians we had ever before seen were those met at the mis* * i.i ranches of California, and were called tame, because they had re ne enlightenment by the aid of priests, whose willing ser vants the j;e<> is were, receiving only food and a shirt for the labor which ned, not very arduous at any time. The tame bucks we had al< oked upon with perfect contempt, as not possessing the feel : < of ;i warrior, but here, just ahead of us, was something different .e had been accustomed to, for the half-naked visitors sat their like centaurs, and there did not appear to be much lameness about them, for they uttered a yell that denoted triumph, and shook their lances in our direction, and then, seeing there were but three of us, counting the girl, and leaving out the dog, prepared to charge down the trail. . mother of Jesus," Florencia cried. " Fly to the rancho for your lives. The Apache Indians are on us, and will take your scalps. Turn your horses, and escape if possible." it will you do ? " asked Lewey, who felt more anxious for the than for his own. I will give him the crccin . * that his first thought w.is for the little ! .1 not personal preservation. Even if we had turned, and spurred our horses to their utmost speed, we could not have reached the ranche in time to escapt a spear thrust. 10 1 Lti cey and 7. -ter mounted and far more txpert horsemen than \ve could ever hope 10 be, even if we had spent a life in taking le.s^ms from the best jquently, in our surpri best thing that was possible under the circu:r, the Indians expected we would do when they first sighted us, a; them a little suspicious of an ambush, which the rascals d: I above ail things. They feared that there might be Mexicans hiiiik-n in the happarel, on each side of the trail, and for that reas n hesitated to . .ui l crush us at a blow. Mind me," Florencia cried, in answer to Lc nl. " The saints will have me in their keeping. Ride for your 1 . ; are dead men. Those warriors know no fear, and have no mercy on all :1. There are four of them, and only two of you. lie warned in time," and the young girl knelt at my friend s Icet, and raise 1 her hands in supplication, so that he would be moved by her appeals. .ill I leave you like a coward," Lewey exclaimed. "I would have acted a treacherous part toward you, but may the devil fly away with me, as I suppose he will some day, if I don t make it warm for the savages before they take you prisoner." He snatched up his rifle as he spoke, and then glanced at me, and, as his eyes met mine, I thought that he was not the worst boy in the world, even if he did like to flirt with pretty girls, and Uase them, when he should have been honest and frank. \^f i vill stick by me, old friend?" the hid asked. He spoke in Eng lish, and hurriedly, for there was no time to lose, as the Indians showed signs of charging toward us, seeming to divine that we were without sup ports. " As long as I have life," was my answer, and the French boy s face d up with the joy he felt at the words. " I knowed it," he cried. " Dismount, and let de girl hold de horses, so dat avay dcy vill not run. Ve can much better shoot on d* foot den in de saddle." Down I dropped to the ground, and threw the bridle of rr?y horse to the girl. She understood the meaning o: the action as well as though we had explained the matter by half a hundred words. Florencia -taried the ani mals along the trail that led to her home, and when the Indians saw the movement, and understood that there was a , aping, a prize that they coveted more than a dozen head <-f cattle, they ut !1, lowered their lon^ lacces, and dashed toward us, s\vay- and I. Hr Uidi . Ivaoced, so that our aim would Ik** I think they did not , vol- they h.ul encountered on the raid, it is very proba- ipM*f th -i at the . ipcd, an.; ,n on ile starboard I French friend said I and i vill de von on de larlxjard side look after, t . and Qd mistake make/ I ,ment of peril Lewey did not forget t more meaning to my car, than if he 1. . i, and by this time the Apaches I s from us, riding like a whirlwind, and looking 1 . feathers, yelling in concert, and shaking their i id at th word we discharged our we could into the cha: . u.l. OB each side of the ; ,ins the rirte* as we did so, and drawing our pistols. ve made the leaps we did, for in another secoi. n the lames of the two uninjir-. -im ,, a wonder, and both the Indians we had .ivance of the others, tumbled from their horses, and li . ;i:id waited for the owners to i but the? -land sufficient rc-aso;, tainted brnt-vs havir-- snvtll bullet ; fieJr complrt lades, a 4 ,ichesdid not lie still even a- clump of chapparcl, and with their | -rass, so that in death t: , i-nemies. -.odr..ppcd our rifles, and drew or nearly as hi^h as our heads and ^ Indians, when they were not more than three ,; from my pistol struck MK t of the ( . O f the t: -lan-.-ed from the bo., f the mustang he was .tnin..;. thro A in* the Indian lo the ground, ne. icct, an;! | -nee, the warrior mi- hi " me ^ n lie eo- OU1 ai my stomach, ** I was too Lewey and /. astonished to get out of the way, or discharge my remaining pistol full at ).t have done, had I possessed proper presence of mind lime to consider my danger. The Aiuche had raised his spear, as I was looking at his hideous face, .iked with thick layers of paint, and thinking how fortunate it was he aged to dismount so suddenly, when Jack thought that the time had arrived for him to take a hand, and show what he could do to j : that he was a dog of courage and resources. He did not need to be told to 10! instinct prompted him to make a sudden attack, and. while the was just on the point of giving me a thrust, Jack made a mighty bound, and landed full on the back of the Apache s neck, and commenced chawing at the flesh and muscles, as if desirous of securing a litt .c lunch of :>t to see how it would taste. The us not prepared for this demonstration. His lance s point fell, as he turned to meet the new enemy. He reached for the long knife in his , and, if he could have secured it at the first attemi :. Jack s life might have ended then and there, but the angry snaps that tiie dog gave disconcerted the savage, and, muttering some malediction in the ie, he made a second attempt, but by this time I had come to my senses, no longer fascinated and dazed by that terrible face. He had exerted over my senses some such spell as the rattlesnake is supposed to ver human beings, birds, and animals. As the savage again reached for his knife, feeling the pain of Jack s long and sharp teeth tearing at the flesh in a fury of rage and desperation, I <:c the long lance from the hand that held ii. .nnd th.-n plunged it thro-i^ii the bvly of the prostrate Indian. He uttered one ad defiance, the hand fell to his side, the eyes grew dim. a shudder ran through tiie body, and the warrior was dead, and the instant life cea Jack relinquished his attack, and uttered a howl, as though to bark a quicm for the spirit that had gone to its happy hunting-grounds. . for the first time, I had a chance to turn my at enti ee what had become of the boy. He missed the Indian tli.it was on* side of the trail, because his pistol hung fire, it had L!! ;he wrong moment, and, before he could cock the se< -die I the girl and horses. Lewey <. . ! of the safety of Florencia, an fataii d the savage who had tumbled from \\. my feet. He imagined that I was more than a match for a (iisuvurit -d, half- dead Apache, but he was much mistaken. I afterward warned him to be me | 1 one of the two m : ,11 riderk- for the word of command from ti red in pursuit, but did not care to mount a hor>e that had nei- r bridle, for fear it might take me to a par: .sit, perhaps in the midst of the rest of the r -be, v.is not far off. 1 picked up my rifle, and Lewey s also, for he had left it behind, in his >;iit, and then slung one of them over my shoulder, and tl I tro tted after my friend. I did not know h -.ere near, but was determined to be prepared in case t . 1 no: run more than fifty fathoms before I heard a roar It s fee the Mexican s musket, for there was no other weapon : us that could make so much noise, it appeared to me. ecouds there was a shout of triumph, nut from : -,ero. and I surmised that the old fellow hud done some damage with 1*8, perhaps killed the fleeing Apache, and such was the < mid, when I arrived at y of the >ide of his head blown away, and prcscntin not accustomed to such wounds. 11 proud as a peacock over 1,; -inted to the wounds, and then to the large muzzle of his ;et. . and was in the yard with our horses. Tl. e firing soon after we had left his house, and, thi: Mans near, as his wolfish dog was that danger of some kind I .ind remained in ambush until the Ind: m : hter. Then he understood the whole matter rd to pass, and, when the Aparhe hnv in si a handful of shot d in his head, the \ -iM have been i. just at that time. 1 congratulations : 1 thcrt tl returning to the spot whr-rr we hid hern fi. the AI\I: Lewey and I. ty, as he said that they were apt to break up into small bands, and scour the country in every direction, meet at some spot near the mountain. - all the plunder and prisoners, and then depart through a secret canvon for ithern portion of Arizona, from whence they came. This was the ne in two years, as he again told us, the Apaches had made a raid, and he rather suspected the Indians, that is the main body, had gone in the jn of San Diego, where there were more cattle and females for pris- . At any rate, it would not be safe for us to continue our journey for r two, as we might fall into the hands of the prowling ladrones, and lose the number of our mess, although he did not express himself in such nautical language. As we returned to the scene of the charge, the two dogs followed at ou heels, a common feeling of danger seeming to make them fast friends, for the time being, as they did not snap or growl at each other like the nigh* before, and in the morning. Indeed, the animals appeared to express to each other a feeling of satisfaction that they had done so well when hard blows were called for. As we neared the spot we saw the two horses standing motionless, wait ing for their masters who would never mount them again, The Mexican looked at the brands on the flanks of the mustangs, and knew them as well as if they had been printed matter. Much better, in fact, for he could not read a word of Spanish. " They are from the Ranche Vallecito," he said, and pointed toward the north, in the direction of the trail. " They must have been stolen tw<> ::en the great raid vyas made, for it takes an Indian a year to break in a mustang, and teach him all the tricks necessary to be an Apache s best "riend, something that can be trusted night and day, will come at hi- and stand until told to go. I will let them mingle with my herd, if I h.i\v any left, and in a few weeks time they will forget some of their wild train ing, and not sniff at a white man, as you see these do." As he finished speaking the Mexican attempted to lay his hand on the nearest mustang, but the horse reared, and struck at the greaser with his fore feet, and then bit at the man in a vicious manner. The Mexican did not seem surprised at the attack. He easily avoided it, and then hit ite over the ruu.k with a stick, and the anitn.il I.IJK-.I alon^ the trail for a few fathoms, then stopped suddenly, and glanced back, as if he had ten something, and could not tell what it was. is looking for his savage master," the Mexican remarked. " It is curious that the mirting should love one who treats him as 111 as an ***> and L The more abuse, the longer the greater re- Now let us find the bodies of the dead, if is blood "a i! . . i hard n the backs of their horses. and be on : there is no km to in the tali grass. It they are not dead they can do u il." ent the dogs into the chapparel, and then followed then. tiously, our rifles all ready for action. We did not have trail of the wounded savages was quite distinct, and well detir of blood. In a clump of grass one Apache was lying, still a] in the agonies of deatlj. He looked at us with a scowl of hate on his painted face, and then commenced to chant his dying song, for he knew no mercy in the dark, swarthy face of the Mexican. B of the devil," the greaser cried, "your time has come, the rietul who created you," and, before we could interfere, he hail iiice, and drove it through the red man s bo i the enemies of V the greaser shouted, and re peated the The Apache gave a gasp, and was dead. was a cruel deed," Lewey remarked, and turned bud ou knew the painted dcviis as well as I do you would not think so," was the reply. "They will torture the life out of you, and laugh K groans. They spare neither women nor children. Should I save hi-; the death he so well merits ? Let the buzzards feast on his flesh, and the coyotes pick his bones, for his race has ended forever." \Vc sent the dogs on the other trail, and found the body of the Indian, but there was no life in his hideous carcass. He must have been a chief, for his lance was ornamented with several long locks of hair, looking like a woman s, and his leggings were embroidered with the quiils of a por- k of some squaw he had left at home to mourn : scnce, or rejoice at his death, just according to his domestic relations suppose Indian females are like their white sisters in this respect at least, and jud^e of a husband by his treatment. We left the bodies where we had found them, the horses uient- ly for their misters, and returned to the ranche, where -. ith a smile of approval. Our animals . Florencia had taken the precaution to remove the saddles, and piquette the beasU Lewey and I. ihe house, where the grass was abundant and ;tly did not intend that we should resume our journey imn.eu i her fa ther was of the same opinion, for he said, You mint wait until tomorrow befoie you start. II !>e more Apaches on the trail, and if you should meet them they would be better prepared for a fight than those who have fallen. This is ihe safest for you for a short time at least/ voting girl s face showed some of the pleasure she felt at lur father s words, but she did not raise her eyes from the groi: to hear her parent s advice. Lewcy stole a look at me to sec how ; the announcement. I was a little perplexed. There w. : remViuing where we were, but my friend, in a tone .; ked, "You can trust me, Thorn. I swear to you by our frit-mMim d.u i vill not say one vord to de girl I should not be villing tor you to fa I confidence in Ins word, trusted him, and agreed to reir.air, \\hcre we until the next morning. " lly the way," said the father, as he lighted a cigarette, an example whicii his wife followed, as soon as we had passed them a package, and he -.ed at his daughter a little suspiciously, " what were >ou doing so f.ir m the house this morning? and why did you not remain to bid our s God speed ? " 1 did not think they would care for my good vifthet," was the reply, thus showing that a Mexican girl can equal an American maiden in equivu- thcre is occasion to deceive a father, and keep .secret her Ihit you were a long way from the house," the Mexican said. "Had it nese senors you would now be a prisoner in the hands of ihe . You must be more careful in the future how you take sol " I was in search of qiu I know where there is a covy in the c h, rl answer, tab iiKr.illca her l.s as she Ihc n-1 lysct- th.it her errand nom home was a I further . He 1-anisut the 1 ndians, and in M sincere, -,iia that should surpass allot he i The sun came out hot. We lounged in the courtyard, our rifle >e more Indians should make t , and . but a few of the tribe might put in an appearance, search- : their lost comrades. We neither saw nor heard icious ever, until about eleven o clock, when both dogs grew un- .m<1 uttered short yelps of anger. can, as he noticed the movements of the animals, dropped on his kn- 1 one of his ears close to the ground, and listenc .orseman is approaching us on a swift lope," he said. He is not an Iniian. and the beast is guided by bit and bridle. To prevei. however, let us be prepared to give the stranger a warm recepi ould hear nothing, but in a minute or more the swift heat of a I were noticed, and along the trail, from the direction in half-breed, superbly mounted on a showy m- j over his shoulders as he dashed alon^. I soni- n the back of his head, and his long, black, coarse hair fluttering iu s Pedro/ the Mexican said, as he dropped the butt of his heavy mus > is Pedro?" I asked, as the horseman aj :ient courier. He rides -patches. It is a lonely journey for him. a-id fuil of the man is well jaul, and likes his work. J \ -.!>.in Pec!: r it WAI evident he in:- . tion, and shouted out a Mexican <.u: twenty-five yrars of a^c, thin and n in the saddle, threw his horse on its hau: ; ce of us, stopping him so siuli rnly that the f ; grass for some distance. Then the vaquero m hin he touched the ground, saluted all present rcro, and said, y scnors re he had halted, tip oed to the fn f the company present. king fellow, with eyes as hl.ick a ,^, if that was better an-i Ltwey and 7. He unbuckled the huge spurs from his heels, laid aside the light carbine which he i over his * \ictd tlie long, sharu knife and !, : " and motioned toward Lewey and m "Tv, :h caballeros, on their \\.t ; up the c<> host red. . response. ._ re Americanos." V- 1 you fear they were Americanos ? * ask;;J our h . .red between the Unite,! States aa 1 Mexico, and we cannot be too c ireful if all sospechoso " It n it little whut country <i ;n 1:1 comes from if he helps me at a pine | iballeros have done t .iis morning," our M host a . >r French, they have my thanks." "A .. . -.vith the wild Indians?" asked the c " I sa, on the trail, and flocks of bu/./.ards hovering over the chlff i . were about to make an attick on a corpse or injured <:u kill any o th ie?" ir of them have gone to their happy hunting-,: . the hands senors, and one by the aid of my old musket, which it." " I v .t it no more, nmigo, if you have sent an Indian to fernai i .here tlL-;, VV.-iat were they? Apach the cour: a raid for cattle and prisoners. These senors r-av ining. and sliot those beasts who would have captured her. Think md \\hy 1 should not stop to ask wh-i counti -ul tiic Mexican looked some of the grat: tclt. " Diabio," the courier said, as he removed his sombrero, and o\t >ed worthy of a Mexican. Frenchmen or should be proud of killing an Indim, and doubly grand when it is an ac- Apache, whom thes.ain - isi ^n to the eternal region of tire for all I care. S n pk-as<_.; hands with such bueno h-m- bres. Hereafter cor.. in everything." We shool. th great ! .ami offered the . ircsh :ctte, which he accepted with a profusion of thanks. I :ro," the Mexican host said, after the cerem rmed. such pressing news that you must scour tlie earth with your horse s feet ? Lewey and I. 151 I should say so. The Amerir. Clustering at the . and General Castro has shaken them up, and is preparing to drive the accursed heretics into the mountains, where they can starve. A war ship is at San Pedro, and the people of Los Angeles i ros will m.uch by land, and attack the town. I have desjjatches to the al- calda of San Diego, praying him to put in order the presidio, at the e . of the harbor, and to give the heretics a warm _ they should dare to venture near in one of their ships. Our people are aroused, and will fight for California until the last drop of blood is she Considering that the presidio at San Diego had but nieces, and those were spiked and useless by neglect, we did not think our ships would :nuch while rounding Ballast Point, and could not believe that all the greasers of the State were prepared to die for the Mo. ist at pres ent. The news did not alarm us in the least, as we had heard just such rumors before. We thought that Captain Fremont and his men could take care of themselves, and not get much hurt, and the result justified our crude opinions. s is indeed news," our host said. " You must rest here, and eat, so that you can go on in the afternoon. I will i^ive you a fresh horse when ready to start, and you can take yours when returning, if the accursed In- do not run it off with the rest of the stock." i common practice, and excited no expression of ^ratitn looked with admiration at the courier s steed, for it was a noble anim gentle fast. Let me exchange with you," I said to Pedro. " I like your horse. Mine is fresh, and can carry a man to San Diego by m vou a doil.ir, for. although I am poor, I have that amount of mo: iition to my caballo, for you: or," said the courier, "the horse is r with him. He is a noble brute, and true a^ in held real piece, took it, tested it with his u-eth, to see th.it :t was not counterfeit, and seeme grinned. This may seem a cheap price, but our host would have been ? ad to have dispose-l of all the horses on the ranche for a dollar eac elf v. M Courage, amigo," the M ed Lew< \ little ist at the : my bcins: better mour/ shall have a caballo equally aa good, and it s: I vou anyt: Le Jucy and /. . ia, can you find the bay bronco, tlrj one I have rid< n. and urn to the corral this afternoon? " " \ es, padre," was the ready answer. " I know where lie .; when the sun goes down." and a flush of \ . :>o ; ne he thought of the happiness >hc w.is to render her lo\ Pedro looked at the girl with the admirati m he did not ; ceal, and I thought that I could account for the rest hi at the lonely ranche, even if his despatches were unseat. He \\a-s in lu- .. 1 ke my i more suitable match for the Jrl th in Lev, dered she did not fancy the dark-ey^l vaquero, who had all the brilliant qualities calculated to win a donce .lito ia her station of life. 1 ut she pre ferred a white face and blue eyes, as the contiast was mi le striking than a dark skin such as she possessed. I went to my purchase, stripped the saddle from his back, and then pi- ! him where the feed was good, rubbed the perspiration from his flanks and back, and the brute seemed to like the attention, for he put his igainst my shoulder, and uttered a whinny of delight at such treat ment, something he lad never experienced at the hands ol his former owner. Our Mexican host and the courier laughed at the exhibition I was mak- .1 even the wife smiled in a sarcastic manner, but Florencia seemed to^approve of my doings, for she gave me a glance from her expressive black eyes that would have made Pedro happy for a day, had he been the recipient of the great favor. Not content with my ministration, I led the horse to the spring for a drink of fresh water, but he did not seem to care for it, as it was D time for drinking, morning and evening being the hours in which he Jvas accustomed to quench his thirst, when water was convenient, and his r not too indolent to turn him toward a river or pond. Then I pro- ; a couple of quarts of barley, and had the satisfaction of scr \nim.il feed as if he liked the gram, an :!>e attent i would spoil a mustang in two weeks." P^Jro said, as I n-tui >up sitting in the shade of the house, and awaiting with patience for ; ..i which the wife was tending. * Our hoi uuly and do not Care. They can pick up a livi- id think them- i fortunate if they do not have to lope a hundred miles on an empty more you pet a bro 1 the ,f the v id not .1: .1- r, or be abused, and in this instance my kindness was Lewey and /. well the mustang I bo<: for a dollar and a poor sped- if horse flesh thrown in to boot. >oe anything of the Indians on your w gathered around the olia, which the wife pronounced r; h \\as made of cheque, barley, onions, red peppers (rather m >:ied;, potatoes, and a few her; I 1 and more produced our stock of coffee and sugar, ar t of the courier by giving him a strong concoction, in \ i for supremacy. It was as nectar to him and tl -o one found any fault. " I left the Ranche Vallecito last night," Pedro said, in an -tion of our ho>t. " There were no signs of Indians at the time in that vicinity, and I saw no one on the trail. I think the bind you k:.. out of tin ir usual course, and that nothing more will be seen of thr : San Diego, unless they strike F ranchc, a-. \ill hurry the captured cattle towards the canyons of t escape all pursuit, even if our people were prepared to .ich 1 don t think they will be. The Mexican is brave, but he , not the yell of wild Indians," and I did not blame him if all .^creamed like those we had encountered in the morni The courier then gave us some valuable information cone- it streams we would have to ford, and canyo- mer -pecially the Seco Canyon as being and ind rugged mountains on either side, ar.d a little stream of el r meandering down the course, and emptying into Pacific Ocean, at some distant point. In fact, we found the journe ;>cfore us was more difficult than we had contemplated, but we were de- iTminc,! not to ^Ive up the undertaking, but to push on, and hope for suc- inted that we should like to wait at some point on the way until the >r made his return journey, but Pedro did not seem to favor the plan. " in the first place," he said, " I do not know when I shall It will depend upon the alralda of Sin !); .>. lie may desire t! r important information, and when I do start I - neither i nor myself. You could not keep up witli me for t ic. Bettei : one, and : aii as well as . Lewey and I. and inquire your way, and may the saints have you in their keeping," and then the courier, with his great appetite satisfied, threw himself upon the ground, under the shadow of the adob ; house, and in an instant was fast asleep, resting himself for the work before him that afternoon and evening, on his lonely ride to San Diego, the trail of which he was not certain was clear of Indi.i. Our Mexican host, seeing no more sig... of Apaches, skinned the dead mountain lion, and then sent out his daughter on a spare horse to drr. the bay broncho which he had promised to present Lewev. I accepted the mission as one of no particular danger or importance. She sprang into the saddle as light as a cat, and did not assume the position that ladies usually do, for her feet were thrust in the stirrups on cither side of the animal. In fact, she rode like a man, and did not think it unbecoming to her modesty to do so, as she had never been taught that her style was un womanly. She was right, for a side saddle would have been out of place in that wilderness. Florcncia sat her horse as gracefully and c-isy as a trained caballcro, and, as she struck the animal on the flank with the end of a reata, coiled up on the pommel of her saddle, and darted out of the courtyard, Lewey could not help expressing his admiration in warm words of praise, for he turned to mi-, and said, i is de most booful sight dut I have seed for many a day. Ah, mon ami, she is grand on de foot, but in de saddle she is von bonne fiilc, and I adore her." !is your love for Kngrncia vanished so soon ? " I ask ." was the hesitating reply ; " but den dis girl is somehow so differ ent, and a real Frenchman can love many times, and many dings, and be none de vusser for it." " Remember your promise," I said. " That courier IV ;n> loves the girl, and would cut you into mince-meat if he thought you had the slightest >n for the senorita. A Mexican s jealousy is onlv equaled by the in- his love. A sharp-pointed knife has put many a rival under the out of the way. 15c warned in time, my friend, and k-v f > your feel- -self." loves him not," was the answer, with a told iv! likes me, and I believes her. - !e the confession the night 1. n I interrupted tli.it love sometimes makes quick work with young and susceptible hearts. Lcuvy and L ? In an r h lhe P romise ,. so handsome, I thought. drov . ! ihen secured the n i mustang which she had ridden, to UK- &he had brought in. asked her father, for we had gathered around to see the new-coir laid. .ruly movements. I xxill tame him ; then tomorrow he will carry the victor axvay from us like shall never see either again." that the girl meant more than her lather co ed, I le no reply, but allowed his r to carry out her - e she put on t and heavy saddle, thrust the cruel curb into his mouth, even if the broncho did resist, adjusted the il as if purs i md, as her graceful form with every motion o . shoes or stool: -rous view of little ankles, and wellf-v could not hel;.< > this child of nature, who knew 1 tiie refinements of civilized Lcwey muttered, and I letaincd another r. a ranchc. 1 for my friend 1 the girl, and that Lewey s ad vould overpo.verhis reason. Fiorencia returned after horse covered with foam, but > obey the slightest wish of his rider. Tlv .irtic-ihr at she had done, and ste-: -npliment*. She had been accustomed to cattle <* from the time of her birth, and for many years had helpec i stock, when it was necessi r the sake of b: The Rirl reported that she had met with no si^ns of e undistnibed. so we at: rrert. and that the Apache ut a portion of the band, and had wandered our WP Lewey and /. r*. the ^curing new fields for plunder, and had met with a in time it was four o clock, and Pedro was awake, and ready to Kime his journey. He saddled the horse I had traded with him, and did J Hunk that 1 had cheated the government official very badly, lame conclusion as soon as Pedro mounted the mustan- rnaJ appeared to be a different beast when the skillful mquera s iii tlie saddle, as he knew how to manage him much brtter than m - it did not spare the spurs, or the heavy curb, and, when he . his s-.mbrero to Fiorencia, and waved his hand to us, and said, ,\ senurs," dashed away at a rate of speed that I thought impossible in the broncho, and I imagined my new acquisition would have had some trouble in keeping in line. Fiorencia had given Pedro a little smile in return for his salutation. It l not much, but the best the poor fellow could obtain, and I won,: as I saw him press his steed up the steep trail, and then glance back to the house for a final salutation, if he felt encouraged by what he had received. 1 he n-j.xt moment he was on the other side of the miniature mountain, and that was the last we saw of him for some days, and then he made hi* ap. at a most important moment, as far as our destinies were con cerned, and the good he rendered us was not forgotten. The afternoon and evening wore away in a listless manner. Lewey kept at a distance from Fiorencia, and she rather avoided him, I thought, nothing to worry about, and, when the time arrived for us to retire, :^an advised us to have our rifles handy for immediate use, as lie did not know but a marauding party of Indians might visit us. Me k -pt no r, as he said that his dog would give us all the i needed, in case there were prowlers near, as he could scent the for a long distance. To prevent Jack from getting into trouble with prowling coyotes, . venturous Indians, we tied him in the out-building, close to where we slept, and, after a smoke by the fire, turned in, and slept all night, and I do not k that Lewpy moved, or even rolled over, until d.nlight, thus showing 1 his wo r d, and was honest in what he said when we returned to the house after the fight with the Indians. d and watered our horses, and they seemed in pcK.-rt order for the .nd then the wife had our breakfast all ready, and, just about an hour after sunrise, we prepare.! to depart. This time Florenc . appear from the house. She sat in the doorway, and watched our proceed- Lcw:v and I. ,ngs with ^ok. and not a word did she were i ..eze, and . .;ty. -I hop gome day not far ili*: . and let Lewey take my place. He spoke in a j coul . even if I had cared to listen, b; therc . in in Florenc -ie arose. law ot her : tfa th M.xuanand his uiic, m :he saint* to ; I to come a-ain when we do .ikinjra word, we c.imc to the set;. ,-fore. The bones of dead the horse * ..:id buzzards, while in tt numbers of the bird scavei ; fc.ist, and striving ith the I share uf tlcsh and b< * "Ot mo lcff anr| - 1 in the tall rushes, and reti:: re thought NN! ,st us. ; the forenoon, and abo , ; came from the mount ted with .it we cou: > snoxv w i the little brook, t . the couri< . _-d by the 1 our hoi removing the S.K .e s ream. trout in the rv vr, ha ;J ound tru mpelled \- Leivey and I. ^ I had neglected to cut a pole, and could not play the j>ri/e as I should iike to have done. h up after it was landed, and uttered a -- | inch friend gave one look, and ran toward me. k Dat is good, by gar," he said. " Let me de next one catch, and , 30 muc: ! to you vill be. I knows how de fish to tal. thin- all Frenchmen think they are great sportsmen and ishernu-n. and my friend was no exception to the general rule. I readily the use of the line, for he would have humored me under 1 .r cftcui ;- I vill you show," he said, and threw the hook into the water. There was another rush a bigger trout, an anxious boy, a struggle, and tik went Lewey, for, in his eagerness, he had i. tumbled in the stream. I on to the fish, Lewey," I shouted, as soon as I could do it I did not speak for a moment. Really it see the French boy blowing the mud and water from Coring not the choicest of Spanish and English exprc: Did of the line, and the trout at the same time. As the brook was but little more than four feet deep, not much <!. to the boy s clothes, and, when he had frightened th, out of the :ls\ or drowned it by his pulling and hauling on the line, we laid the prize on the bank of the stream, and then Lewey uttered a mighty shout of triu iv! ebbcr seed such fishin as d -it ? " he asked, as soon as his my answer. " Do you usually fish that way in Fram ve gets a big von on de hook ve goes overboard arter Aim," which I have good reason to believe was a he, but, as I had r.. nchman fish before, I was compelled to accept his statement as a fact at the time. trout we needed for our dinner. We could have caught hundreds in the same rapid manner, but did not desire to des h we could not consume, thus proving that we were not genuine sportsmen, but the veriesi amateurs. vey stripped off some portions of his clothing, and dried them in the n sun and gentle breeze, while I dressed the fish, wrapped them in leaves, and laid them among the hot ashes and coals, and when they were done we had a feast that epicures mig! avicd. so ( the of the trout. ating all that ue could not dispose of, and looked a litilc disappointed nes were picked clean, to think that there was no m< :on. .1 remained under i . clock, taking a little siesta in the meantime, t! i our rested i-.d resumed our journey, crossing a ford where t nore than a foot deep, an embankment thrown up by sonic great t" of the rainy season. we galloped along the trail, looking sharply to the rip-lit and or signs of Indians or wild beasts, we a -ain admired the aciion of our steeds, as they moved alons like perfect machinery. The only trouble their desire to go faster than we wished. They ha-1 been accustorar bein^ ridden by men who spared neither spurs nor h hen in a hurry, and we had to c> -t our caballos to restrain thtir impatience, and keep t! to ten miles an hour, instead of fatten <>r more. They understood our wishes at last. d his nose an inch in advance the other was not happy until he :icy. ricent country we passed through that afternoon, as all the , good for raising cattle, the grass being rank and plentiful, with 1 there a spring or a water-course. I suppose that the whole of > of bull k -id orchards all along the route we crossed. Once in a while ic to a sterile district, where the s and har .. shn: ;>e seen foi miles, and c J occasions we saw grea t s in our path, too indolent t : of the \v. strike if me little trouble with Jack, as the dog wanted to go in : scented, and a rattlesnake he thought i l>e well shaken, and then devoured. I iC gentle blows with the end of a r then he gave snakes a . * of our i-cels, so \ make no Once the mustangs shied out of t -eled in our saddles. If the . .ii^h in front an.l r tiling to the ground, and near a rattlesn i. oo a strip of hot saod. The fright i^4de Lewcy so kcd 160 Lewey and /. rse, and swore that he would kill the reptiles. As his ip .ish the job. , armed with a lot of stones, u iit-n vented his i la .U were waved in defiance, but Lcwev : at the vermin, and first one li. we red, and t!: other, and a club soon boat the life out of their il! uliar odor when excited that was powerful and ; ;-," said Lewey, as he returned from the attack, " dey v any more nun in dis vorld, and for de vorld to come peoples mu.-. es, for I can t look out for eberybody, and that re:. - .! restore him to a good-hum >r, for lie ! all the rest of the afternoon, and did not even allude to Fl<" so I honed the ma^ic 01" love was disappearing from his mind, and that, \\ith hl> u^u.d consistency, he was forgetting her. ( .d said, in a musing sort of tone, i think Engracia and Anita are doing at the present time?" and he answered, , I s nose, if dey has nothin 1 else to do," and then I knew that his L>ve for the woman he was en^a^ed to was w.uvii i^. ?.s men do not like to think that the girls they admire have ocr . .t anv- .lintiest of food, expecting them to turn with disgu-: .nd nutricious bean. more, but thought of the boy s protestations a:, | how he had led me along, and finally prevailed upon me to leave the ship, so thai be married to the young ladies of our ch< I woa> dered if be would jilt Engracia when the proper time arrivr j sor no. I was firm in my determination to n^Ke a wife of Anita, van ted Lewey to wed as well as myself, for the sake of company. I 1,1 do so, and supposed that he ultimately might consent, if . countered no more pretty faces on our route. fter five o clock we cr nail mountain, and at the top I there spr c us were and out -buildings, with a cor ral in v.hirh we: case the owners de- them for a - ver tlicir vast pos- ms. the in* .>f the house. We. .. hasty retreat into the building, while three vaqueros made their appearance with huge escope \nd watched with interest for the first hostile demonstration that we I disposed to make. Three or four dogs bounded toward us, and Jack was ail ready to make friends, or be enemies, as they should elect, but the Mexicans called the luck, and so we were enabled to approach the hou- col- \e feared would be the case. usted ? " one of the vaqueros shouted, and brought his CdCopeta so that it would cover us. 44 Comida y dormir," we answered, meaning that we desired rest. ;cd amigos?" was asked, a little more pleasantly, and the musket lowered* scnor, todas amigos," was our prompt answer, intimating that we were friends. me along then," the Mexicans said, and, as we advanced, they saw that ive were not Indians in dis^uisr, so the guns were put aside, and we were welcomed with looks of surprise, and words of deep courtesy from the :nen. This was the Ranche Vallecito we had heard the courier speak of, and \v his horse at once, for, as I dismounted, one of the vaque- ked at the brand on my steed s flanks, and said. 4 \Ve have seen that mustang before. It is the courier Pedro s horse. He was here yestei The Mexicans glanced a little suspiciously at me, as the words were spoken, but I answered carelessly, s now at San Diego. We exchanged bronchos yesterday afternoon at Tobias s ranch e. I gave my mustang and an eight-real piece for this aninvl, and made a good trade." Then all three men laughed in unison, and one of them said, > smart. When he makes an exchange he always gets the best . We have a hundred horses that we will sell you for eight . and .i-k no caballo in addition." . -iswcrcd, with a laugh, to show that I was not offended, this animal pleases me, and I want no other." urgent ap- this time DUO :e, offered to aid Q by his resolute demeanor, had inspired the greasers dogs with a wholcsomt Lewey and I. ect. so they did not molest him, but kept at a distance, and looked the the astonishment which they felt at seeing a stranger in their r :<iledour saddles, blankets, and equipments in an out-huil.lir that at the list ranche, and then turned the horses into the COIT. they would not escape during the night, unless the gate was tl open. " What is the news from Tobias s ranche ? " the father of the family asked, as we returned from the corral, having rubbed the perspiration ; the horses backs, much to the amusement of the Mexican muchacho, who had never seen such pains taken with animals in all his life. We had an exciting brush with the wild Indians yesterday morning, just before Pedro arrived," I answered, quite indifferently, as though k something that I had been accustomed to all my life. " Gracias Dios, you don t mean to tell me that the Apaches arc on a raid ? " asked the aged Mexican. " Yes; there were four came near the house, and tried to capture Senor. ita Florencia." "The saints have us in their keeping, but they did not succeed, I hope," cried the two sons, thus showing that the girl s charms were known even in that part of the country, and had produced their usual effect on the young men. "No, we beat them off, and saved the girl," I said, in a complacent manner. "And killed three of the savages, while Senor Tobias blew off the head of another," the impulsive Lewey exclaimed. " Glory to God the highest," the old Mexican cried. " Four Apachts slain by your hands. My house and all that it contains are at your service. " He called to his women folks, the wife and daughter, and bade them prepare a feast that would reflect honor on the establishment. The girl not remarkable for her beauty, so Lewey did not make love to her, as he would have done under other circumstances. The mother was dark, ind wrinkled, with hands that were none too clean, but she made us welcome, and called us heroes, because we had saved the life and of a girl, as though we deserved credit for such a just deed. The Mexicans were veryp::i at we should give them a minute >:mt of the fight and death of the wild Indians, and felt a little fearful the Apaches might make a raid in their direction. So much impor tance did the father attach to our^ramunication that he compelled tha Lcwev /". youngest of his chii ct musti: sevci - .>ns, to see if t the ictl at dark, and said t! I ok was considered safe for t!. L-S to a nu d led our horses, ate our t along journey i. . . . n of cigarettes, an retired to out-building, spread our llur.keis fur a bed, and prepared to sleep, and ju.-t :hen I -.-scendcd in torrents, and \vc felt thankful that \vo were under shelter for the night. The fleas were as voracious as usual, and full as numerous, but their feeding did not disturb .hen we awoke at daybreak, the storm had :1 ,1 thcr-i - of a pleasant day. The air i with the perfumi of flowers and herbs. The quails called to each other from the chappar ild pigeons passed over the fields in count- less . -intain we h.id descended the night before stood a herd of deer, watching the movements of life at the house, and ;ig for our presence they appear. The leader of the large buck, with monstrous antlers. I was more than half Ive iu:n a shot, and secure them as a prize, but, when I re- :ould not carry them \vi;h me, I gave up the idea, and let the graceful animal live, and depart in peace. We piquetted our horses where the grass was fresh and sweet, and let them feed while we washed, and smoothed our hair, a proceeding that rd a quiet smile to pass over the faces of our eakness of mir d on our part, but it had i: vxl watching our mustangs feed, and quite ready for the 1 fast that was < .-on the fire, the father drew near, and suddenly .,- it country do you belong, senor ? You do not speak S welle- and your skin is white. : ke mine." I remembered in time not to declare my nationality, and red, nch. M ion and I are brothers, and we are tr.-. amtry just to see wh.it it is like. We are bound for Los geles, an of protection from Gen-. \V .: ! > >a like to see tin is the short answer. " They would be of no use to n read or write, neither can my it are you a good Cathol A ,. i, not thinking o( 164 Lewey and /. words, onlv knowing that Protestant* \vcre not loved or respected by the foig( " It is g-uxi," he said, with a smile, as I thought, of relief. " Now I hav a proposition to make you. Look around, and see land ami cattle on either hand. Ali are mine. Is there a more lovely place than this? " I was forced to admit that the region \\as a paradise, under that cool, spring breeze, with the sun just rising from the mountain , and tinging with iu> the distant hilltops, and the Sierras, covered with snow, \vhil .tir was tilled with humming bees, seeking in the numerous flowers an cnrly harvest of honey. It is a little singular, but I have recently been in, i.it this region, at the present day, produces more honey, thrc domestic attention and protection, than all the other parts of the State combined. i like the place? " asked the Mexican, waiting until I had taken in all the surroundings before he spoke. Yes. Who can help admiring nature in her solitude and grandeur ? I red, willing to please the Mexican, and make myself agreeable. " ii is w;Il," the man said. " You c.m remain here all yuur days if you If you desire to ride, there ar~ hundreds of horses at your disposal. If you love hunting, the mountains and plains abound with deer, and game ot all kinds. If you prefer work, cattle are to be rounded in once a \ and branded, or barley to sow, and be gathered. In many ways you can make yourself useful." What did the Mexican mean by his broad hint? Was he disp< me a prisoner in that wilderness, where a traveler or stranger was rarely seen, and the only recreation was such as he ha-; described ? X> r papers were in the house, and when the people were tired they wen; to sleep, and when hungry ate their coarse fare, and thanked the s.i . ;y do you thus tempt me?" I asked, resolved to learn all his .ts by a direct question. i moment the Mexican hesitated, and *hen said, speaking very slowly and ciistip.cilv, U noticed my daughter did you not ? I saw you look at her with ad miration in your eyes, or I am mist. ;an to feel warm and uncomfortable, for I feared the conversatioa a serious turn, and on to myself. . 3, senor, I admired the ladv- She is muv herm , swered. " She is beautiful," the host repeated, with all of a parent s j \ Li : /. .ley arc .ul will in red under the t. The ntempluous gesture, \\oiild be the this world. A >harp ki.il-. and n rca< my : the senorila failed I .i mean to tell me that your daughter is willnrj. " 1 ; : from my daze, and B -ily. ited to me and her mother that such is the i 11 send to Sa:i M.iteo for a priest, and i I the knot ran be t ; . I unexpected happiness, but I had to keep im :, and :or there was no chance to fool away time . with the easer at my side. || m y m I iid. on the spur of the mom " Why of such happiness before I pledged my word to an- i are tlu 1 to some woman? he asked, a little dis appointed. e is nu-. but I am. How could I think that such a beautiful senori- \vould lift her t-ycs to m man ? n read and write ?" She is .-. no education. Take her, an 1 the saints How gladly would I do so. if I could only \^ free of the girl who is ex- ! seeks to be my wife." . in a sullen tone. ^ uM you ^hter s h her, and |hen rient ? "Mv knife would rind a place b i - -:.id enjoyed ;.im ri^lit. . in aj>parent tr.ink 8 fa- ther of the pir! 1 me In th* manrtr. They, like you, arc Mexican caballeros. and ready to rt- Lewey and /. venge an insult to their relative with death. Let the matter rest just as it is for the present. I am a man of honor, like yourself. I will seek mv be trothed, and tell her all. Perhaps she is already married. I hope that she is. I have not seen or heard from her for months. If she is untrue, or gives me back my freedom, I shall hasten to your ranche, and then proudly demand the hand of your beautiful and innocent daughter." This was not exactly true, but I was not going to infuriate a man when he had the power to do me a serious injury, and perhaps take my life, as readily as he would have slaughtered one of his lively bullocks. I could see that the greaser did not like the idea of relinquishing his hold on me. He knew when he had come across a prize for his daughter, even if other people did not, and the I i girl of most excellent taste and judgment, as I admitted at the time, and have always thought that she was inspired when she selected me for a husband. She must have been a won- derful character reader, for one so young and unaccustomed to the world, and when she did obtain a partner, how striking the contrast must have been in her eyes, and how bitterly she probably regretted that she had not married her first love. I have often spoken of the unexpected proposal that I received at the Ranche Vallecito, and what an honor it was for one so young an;l tender, and sometimes regrets have been expressed by those who should take an interest in my fate that I did not yield to such solicita tions, marry, and settle in the wilderness, where my genius could have found full scope in fighting fleas, Apaches, and a very dark and wrinkled mother-in-law, with hands none too clean for mixing tortillas, and other fancy dishes. For a few minutes the Mexican father, who was so anxious for an advan tageous match fur his daughter, and saw the prize slipping from his fingers, remained silent, watching the bees and the herd of deer, revolving in his mind what course to pursue to make two young hearts happy. " Let us understand each other," he said. " If you find the senorita you arc expected to marry unfaithful, or can get out of the engagement with honor, you will do so, and return here ? " "Can you doubt it? I should fly as fast as horse-flesh could carry me," but I did not say in what direction. " That is enough. I will tell my daughter all, so that she will not think her love is slighted. You do not mean to express contempt for her wishes " and the host s hand rested on the hilt of his long knife in a care less manner, and his eyes showed some of the fire of an uotamed ranchero. Ltwey and / 167 "The saints forgive me," a-. .s free you would see ho\v quickly I should welcome : and be proud of such a . : the man MIS her." All t iking I k-.-. t my eyes on that long knife, for I feared its sharp point, and the owner. I was determined to get out of a bad :iie best \\ !e. " I h.ive to detain you," my host sai :1 eye, .d defy the fa-nily of your intended. If they should corr.e here for the purpose of nuking complaint, we could ambush the \vhoic ; put them out of the way with but little trou I almost shuddered at the free expressions of my would-be father in law, ed for the hour when I could mount my horse, and cs such a dangerous local 44 The plan that I have laid out is the best," I remarked. " Let us sepa rate with that understan -no," the Mexican responded. shake hands on it. we did, then and there. " When you leave today, if you must resume journey, I desire you to salute nv. .r with a kiss. It will prove to her that you are anxious, for more, lie careful that you do not f. I promised compliance with hi* he ta>k was not one that I felt anxioi: -id^ome, and I not seen her wash her hands or face since she got out of bt. promised, and meant to carry out the programme, and so escape a cut or ^m that lon^ knife. easer talkin about so lo: the Mexican and I separated. 44 He desires me to marry his daughter," I answered proudly. T e was a little more pride than there was any occ.. \vas the fir>t proj>osal that I had ever received in that line, and young men arc to be vain of their conquests. 41 Docs de girl vant you ? " asked Lewey, his eyes opened to their widest In astonishment. "So I hive been given to unders a:. tone. de g rl 5s bber heard of tich foolishness in all my life. Hope you said i ^, I did plead that .nt me from accepting the offer. Lewey and I. >>t did de L . not much. He tliuu^.t that he *** n to a fi< kle hoy as a husband lor his child, and 10 :^ into :it. I qui: with him." ; s von He, the French la.;. "He :-> no sich c r i-.)^. and I don t believe lu ax you to marry de i will see wher all then k r.r, .he girl a good-by, and if you alter : I vould not kiss ; - million dollars. \viih a - ds- . and then I knew thai our host s dauj;h;er ir.ust be very jKuin to repulsa y as mv French fri-nd, who W I - - he !, and \\h u a woma and, aficr it w is i ed cur bora ing Mexican w a helping band, and exprei . with us, and see thr- world. He thought that h lu- h td ;i ,,out, and \<.t ),;-.(. never visited, for the ranche was his home from ih- :. d lie sup;x/sod he should have to remain there un.il his - : iboul t . Mount my hone, I ci-ulit the glare of the Mexi can He, was : me of a certain contract which the hu^; iitnie h.i i rpa1e me forget for the time. Hut, as soon as 1 a hand ^o to th: i knife, I knew what he meant. Oil went my ver-d I a .oiuached the youn, .^irl, who really did lo little regretful ;>arture. s.iid, "in a few weeks I hope to have the happiness of Until t ; ien will you allow me to salute you?" put up her lips just as though she had been instructed what and I kissed her as fervently as I could under the circumstances, r.nd that bad Lewey, who forgot his bold words, sprang forward, and offered to sa- the girl in the same manner that I had done. F>ut she drew back, and ,: the boy a haughty l->.,k that delighted me. I desired to laugh, but did (!are to | n nbuah tamtties, and put them out of the world, in rase it suited his oonvcnience. Lewey covered his it by asking a few : it our route and ftoppin-j nd ttiis our host was kind en ve. "Push on," he sa d, "and you will reach Sa:. k by noon. After this late rain you m iy have to camp on the bank of th- : ^r a feu even a day, until t!i.- water recedes, and the ford is passfblf. and I. If the creek is low yo: ranchc, an,! com; .1 in their his hand, the women did the san. ; ot.t a hearty i . to escape companionship of curs of lowdegrti. free rein to our mus- :c off, following the trail that led to tin The morn iightful, for the rain ne .-rs, and the a" .1 around us. J up all along the she, the thick their way in Du on our 1- ft hand. . :ie like gold, silver, and bronze. .. adinjj pin icnt, and did \ ,om the trail in pursuit of game of any kind. A dozen it of thickets by the noise of our horses feet, but they only jj.i/.ed at us imazeme ; turn and H. if tii ;i.i:i. and what he was capable of it is probable the buck .ever heard the crack of a rirle in that vast solitude, .re only occisionally hunted by Indians, when bullo not convenient. Once a black bear crossed our path, and sat up on looked a little surprised to see such early visitors, gro \\ s answer p baik from Jack, and then the game little fello.v looked in our faces, as if ho wanted perm make an atta-.k, and show what he couid do whh ai animal ten times It a shake of the head was enough to restrain the little bulldog, and he .eel one of his eyes, as mu^ ling you, and had nu i ltvn-.i- j near that mor, : it is to \\ :e a little I that we -ied down to .. and soon we were some distant: ous neighbor, and when and a drink uer. Lewey and T. "You had better get off, and va>h vour face," my friend remarked. "Datgrv: your cheeks, cos you of datfor bo< . . -\\ h saw that I was ;iot p-L.i.sod with t. .his sun:. ..out. "Did you dink .iat I vas in groat earnest, O mon ami? Litile much care do I for de Jrls vot you kiss. Do you dink dat I let von nice bo; marry a filie same as dat," J take her mineself fust," and that is c wo-vi .: c.et ma ucvoted friendship, and could m.m do more ? Ah < s me cordial relations between us were resumed, and there was sunshine on Lewey s face for the rest of the day. stopped at what is now called Julian City, I believe, or near it, and ate our lunch, fed our hoises, smoked a pipe of tobacco, took a few winks of sleep, and resumed our journey, but not always at a gallon, as the trail was so indistinct that at times we had some trouble in keeping it, conse quently \\e were late when we reached the banks of a small stream, which we supposed was San Felipe Creek. We hunted foi a place to ford, but the water was pouring down at so lively a rate that we did not dare to ven ture, fcr i"ear of losing our horses and stores, so at last concluded that we would have to remain where we were, and camp for the night. There was plenty of good grass and wood near at hand, and water in abundance, but the place was lonely, and we did not feel quite at our ease, t of the long night before us. But we could not go on until the stream ha.l fallen, and we expected that it would by morning, ns the landmarks showed a decrease had taken place in the course of the * \Ve looked all aro .in 1 us, toward the mountains, and in the direction of the ocean, although we could not see it, but the position of the sun showed .t to be, and not a human being, except ourselves, was in sight. .Ve even failed to get a glimpse of smoke from some distant ranche, and hen, after we found that camping was inevitable, removed the saddles from our horses backs, piquetted them where the feed was good, and, while thus eng.i^j !, I saw, near a clump of alder-bushes, a solitary doe looking at us with great, wondering eyes. For the first time during our journey we needed meat, as our salt junk ;one, so there was no reason why we should not have venison for upper, if we could <jet it. Lewey held Jack, while I took my rifle, and Stole around in the rear of the doc, and, when within thii; and had the satisfaction of seeing the deer bound away for a few rods, and then drop, badly wounded. Another shot put an end to its suffering, and when I cairied my prize to the ca*np wns quite proud of my achievment Lewey and /. ressed the deer, a:. needed for supper, ind lit to use fo; i of a roaring fire we sojn offee boiling in a tin pot, and our pi] Jick was just quivering with aiil .cli-.uion f<>r ti: the perfume of the burning tic >. /.eful to our i we had no doubt but our dog was as eager for a meal s is not so bad, my friend ie sun disappeared, ness gathered around us. " Ve vill much eat, and d< :n come all dc quicker vid de stomach full. A am done, and Vot de devil am dat ? " I did not wonder that the French boy asked the qtu- a sudden yelp of rage, and made a dive at at.. Indian, a young follow not more tha chief, that we could icll by his dress and ornanu-nt?. as he stood leaning on a long lance, near our fire, and looking i cold, defiant manner, ex pressive of contempt, we thought. We had met a wi! imagined, and the sight was not an agreeable one. for remem bered our bold deeds in slaying some of his tribe, and 1 we were of the fact, but now it seemed to us that such matters were not to our credit, and that our scalps were in danger of being raised to pay for our temeriiy. CHAPTER VI. URPRISED GREETING. A MIDNIGHT VISITOR. AN ANGRY BEAR. AN OWL S TOOT. A LAND OK WARRIORS, Till: CHIKl- .S COMMANDS. ESCAPING WITH OUR SCALPS. THE SULPHUR SPRING AND bATH. THE RAN* HERO S FEARS. THE NIGHT CAMP AT THE FOOT OF THE -THE PROWLING LION. ii MISS. A STRANGE KING. Tin: LONELY L.\\V<>\. LUS ANGELES. DON SANCHOS APPEARS, R one moment we prized on the savage without speaking, after Lew- iin.uion. No wonder my friend thought that our visitor was the devil, for he did look diab" . ;he flames lighted up his dark, painted face and hair, the latter ornamented with eagle s feathers, \\hile the handle of his lance was decorated with human locks and long strips of red My taken from the shirts of dead Mexicans or trappers, whom the .id encountered during his raid from the southern part of ii lower California. .Ml tiiis wj h.id time to note, as Jack made a bound for the unwelcome and unexpected visitor, hut we were not prepared to see our dog, just as lie was within a short distance of the Apache chief, receive a kick that sent him end over end, and finally l.v-ded the little fellow in my lap, where I held him fast, quivering with rage and disappointment, as I wanted to see nany companions the Indian had. and if hi?, visit was peace or war, before proceeding to extremities. Our rilles wore some distance from us, and out of reach, and. had we jumped to our feet, and ran to obtain pos- : .on of them, the savage could have thrust hi rou^li and through d hardly stirred from his tracks. " How? " asked the Apache, as he held up one hand, the palm turned ** Lewty and I. wtrd us, which must have signified good will, for he made no effort to use his weapon, or move toward us. How? " we both exclaimed, and imitated his example, still letaiuingour seats, and that probably saved our lives, as the savage saw that we had no hostile intentions. " Mexicano?" demanded the Indian, with a sharp look from his bright eyei. as Tic asked the question. both answered with one accord, as we supposed the chief had no love for people of that race. "Quien r " our visitor demanded in Spanish, showing that he knew some- g of the language. " Americano," Lewey replied, at a venture. The face of the Apache lighted up at once, lost some of its sternness, and a slight smile passed over his rather good-looking countenance, even if it was fierce. " Speakie you de Yankee ? " asked the warrior, to our great surprise. " Yes. Where did you learn to talk English ? " I demanded. The savage extended his hand, and came forward, dropping his lance as he did so, to show that his intentions were peaceable. We shook hands with the visitor, and motioned him to take a seat by the fire, while I released the struggling Jack, who smelledof the Apache, and no longer threatened the savage who had saluted him with an unceremoni ous kick. But it was evident our pet remembered the rough treatment, for he looked at us as much as to say, " Just let me try that dodge over again, and you will see if I don t do better." 41 Me speakie good Yankee," the Apache said. " Me learn of white trap per awa> off," and he pointed toward the mountains. " Is the chief hungry ? " I asked. * " Yes, me eat." \\Y cut off some steaks of venison, ind threw them on the coals, and then handed a pot of coffee to the Indian. He drank all that there was, macked his lips, and said " Good," then proceeded to rake the burning flesh from the fire, and to eat as though a long ride had given him a sharp appetite. We handed him a cake of pilot bread, and a pinch ol salt, and then the chief must have thought that we were not bad friend s for he no longer glanced around, and peered in the darkness, stopping his mastication every lew seconds to listen for unusual noises, or to note if strangers were lurk* Ins; near. Lcwy and I. In h.. Disposed of large quantities of half cocked lot mine: . hes that adhered to the chops, and at last, when nis . , he drew back from the fire, and murmured, \Ve handed him a dozen cigarettes, and he lighted one, took a long whiff, swallowed the smoi. d to relish it, then asked, bat do here?" " On the way to Los Angel i.nvn. Me know. There," and he pointed in the di rection of i "And what are you doinj; here ? " I asked. " Steal cattle, WAS the eai. lid Answer, and he looked a little proud, as he uttered the \u< - A bivr chief like you should have many compani- !, thinking to flatter the savage. " AK all ai\mnd here. Me call, they come. No call, BO Co I thought the- Indian w.i ; ed to believe him, as it is not just the tiling to doubt a man s word, when you are in his power, or he haa influer.i him up in all he as- " IIo\v f.ir ha> .vcied today ? I asked. "O! . i-o:n th-j mountains this morn, when the sun rise. Tomorrow -.lean no li^ht. Tl. .: the Apache s war-cry." He pointed in the direction of the Vallecito Ranche, and I pitied my \v^il !-. : in law, if . i i.im by surprise, aiul wished that I could led raid, for I had no ill feeling against him, marry his only daughter, a girl not remarkable fur : that our visitor had not learned of the death of four of hi- pie, and tli.it \e were concerned in their early decease, for if such \\ that he mi-ht desire to avenge their great . mentally resolved to make oo : ie haunts of the A r just *Jien v." were n-.t ambi: ies. \\ boast i the road today," I said. \Ve have craveieci n, i seen no trail." I answer. "Apache see kill vt-a, .- "What i: i ::-. -v ll -uUl see us tomorrow?" I asked. ,kecs. Me give you pass. Apache know let \-u p i! see you." We had our doubts on the subject, but at the same time concluded not express them in a defiant manner. We thought it best to be on good U For dree years me live with white trapper over de mountains, at his cigarette. " He show me how to shoot tosp; 4-jc, and to be a big warrior. He and de g reat . each other. S pose you Mexican, me not s- nd eat at your fire. Me kill you, and take scalp." .oa not wait until we were asleep, and then kill us? jsked. Thc e smiled, and a cunning look passed over his fa he answered, ,. M , .tiernoon. Me see you camp, and kill de er, ai me ( | Den me hear you speak de Yankee ling. l, We n;c;v:,,-aad he held out his sta. {or anoti -.f our hands. Wl . i could be trusted, but were not su . S il talked with him for an hour or more, and tru and looked to our horses, bey had fed enough for the : : their location to a tree close to the camp-fire. il our horses ? " I said, as we secured the animals by strong rca t | they could not break away. The youn- fell vach as a warrior who is on a trail d.ircs look ; >:id shook his head. . No steal friends horse. Take 3 all want. Set- me br .n, in my mustang for de night." _;ers in his mouth, and uttered a shrill t of the rhapparel, and galloped t itop: :/,n a few feet of its owner, and waited for furth ma- Our horses uttered dissatisfied snorts, and manifested symptoms of irK h of the half-tamed and ha r qulc tccl then .iien the Indian hobMed his stec- 1 lore legs together, and turned it loose, to feed as it might during the Lewey and /. We gave the chief our horse-blankets to lie on, examined the caps on the rifles, to see that they were all correct, and then lay clown, the Indian with his feet to the fire, and his lance by his side. He might have been playing possom, for it seemed to us that no sooner was his head on the ground than he fell asleep. " Lewey/ I whispered, as we pulled the blankets over our shoulden, is the cuss honest? " " By gar, Thorn, dat is sornethin dat I can t answer much mineself. V ill put our trust in dc saints, and hope to avake in cle mornin vid cle hair an our booful heads. If he moves eber so little in de night, and mine eyes is open, den I shoot him like a coyote, you see." And, even as the French lad spoke, his voice grew a little indistinct, and he uttered a snort, that sounded like snoring, but, as Lewey n\\\ that he never snored in all his life, I supposed that I must believe him. In a few minutes I should have followed his example, except the nasal ounds, but kept my eyes open by a powerful effort, aud watched the flickering fire, saw the embers grow dim, and heard the loud calls of the numerous coyotes, as they summoned their clans for an inspection of our camp. The horses were not easy, and seemed to fret at their confinement, while Jack uttered a few low growls, then curled up under the blankets, and went to sleep, for the poor little fellow was as the rest of us. and needed repose. T3y and by I dropped off to sleep, and was half awakened by feeling some thing snorting at my ear. I imagined that it was Lewey tr. t more than his share of the blankets, so spoke sharply to him, and said, " Lie still, you Frenchman, and let me sleep," and then something hit me * clip alongside of the head, that was far from pleasant, and I gave my compan- fon a kick on his body that made him utter a choice expression in his na tive tongue, and roll over, and then Jack darted out from under the blan kets, gave some shrill barks, and when I looked up over me stood a huge, hairy animal, with glowering eyes, and a monstrous paw, that to let fall on my face. By the faint bla/e I saw th.it my nocturnal visitor was a bear, and not a small one, cv .is of the common black variety. "A bcarl a bear!" 1 yell- i!ed out of the reach of the heavy paw, and gr.tb!>ccl my rifle. A bear! Varc ? " yelled Lewey, and, as he struggled to his ft hi- f--lt where, for the visitor laid a paw on the seat o( his troupers, and I heard above the uproar the sharp tearing of cloth and buckskin, and then th brill voice of my friend, I d, Lcwey and /. .:ross the fire I ian, but ho had gone as p aburnin/ the face of the ch was snorting around th horses to be n ;th terror. But the brand stop; for a moment, and thus I was enabled to seize my rifle, and ill into his bo only rendered the beast more furious, and, wit!. charged on me, but I jumped aside, and escaped the deadly em- fired, and, as he did so, a dark form bounded f a:ul thrust a lance into the beast, near the fore shoulder, and, before the brute could snatch at the weapon, and break it, the Indian had : salted to see if there was occasion for another prod, and I got behind a neighboring tree, loaded our ritl darkness would permit, and little Jack made music and work as he t : ear of the savage beast, yet kept out of harm s way by his agi: ulness. The flre leaped up, stirred into life by the tumult that _:, and then we saw the young Apache chief once more leap forward, and thrust his long iancc into the body of the bear, and this time his stroke touched art, fur the animal uttered a faint roar, and tumbled over, bit at the and ground, and was dead. "II, . " Big feast tomorrow. Good meat for warrior, brave heart for Indian on the trail." iled on the wood, and lighted up the surroundings, so that we could sec our prize. It was a black bear, not one of the ferocious, fighting, kind, but a beast formidable enou ;h about five hundi : not care to encounter many during our journey, especially in the me before we could calm our horses, or get Jack to settle 1 peace and quietness. As he labored under the impression that he had done most of the killing, he required us to pat and praise him a dozen times before he could be induced to curl up, and go to sleep, and even then .am of the battle, and growl himself awake, dart to the carcass, and sniff at it to see if there was any life exi- -isfied that there was none, he would retire for another nap, and repeat the performance course of half an hour. Yankees heap brave : Mexicans. We friends now more than 1 he extended his paw, and VT* again shook hands. He seemed to think that there was some spec- I So Lewey and I. ..inc-mce in this ceremony, which he had learned from his white trap per friend. \Ve piled uu some wood on the fire, to keep the coyotes from gnawing the carcass of the bear, and once more went to ^ieep, and this time we were not distur oed, for we did not awake until after daylight, and then only by the loud honking of thousands of geese on the borders of the stream >oung Indian had disappeared, but his blood stained lance was lean- : linst a tree, and his hobbled horse was near our own. j scornfully received and rejected by our animals, as thev . and bit at the mustang every time it approached to exchange inorn- U e wondered where the Apache chiet had gone, but did not suppose that he was far off, and our surmises were correct, for the Indian came into camp, bearing on Ins back eight fat geese, which he had shot with his bow and a ! with hardly an eit "Cook goose," the Indian said, and, drawing his knife, cut off neck and then run the blade across the breast, stripped skin and feather- the carcass at . id pull, and there was the flesh and fat before us, clean and tempting looking. did not seem to think that it was necessary to remove the crop . smiled in a disdainful manner when we performed the of fice before laying the fowl upon the coals. However, he offered no ob it ched the cooking with the concern of a hungry man, and, when the g - done, and the coffee made, we fell to, and there were nes left for Jack to pick, but he satisfied his hunger on broiled veni son. Then we lighted our pipes, and, while we were smoking, heard at a e, the gruff hoot of an owl. The Indian listened for a moment very a lontively, then put his hands to his me nth and repeated the cry. Five minutes later a dozen painted Apache warriors burst through the chapparel, and clashed toward us, shaking their long, ornamented lances in an ominous manner. ll no move, was the chiefs command, as we were about to is we thought our time had come. " Hold dog fast," the Indian continued, noticing that Jack was struggling to escape from my arms, and mnke a rush toward the visitors, to investigate them, and see if ;ld not defeat them tingle handed. "Keep still. Me friend yours. :rt Yankees, if you no hurt them." it still, but were a little apprehensive of trouble. We could not do much in the way of defeating twelve well-mounted Apaches, and escape was Lewey and 1. 181 not to he th , rses were neither saddled nor bridled, and e to thaf.. ..cerful, the i hckl up onc D the visitors checked lecl- :- why they were not per- .ips from our h.aas, as is the pleasant custom c vhen on the war path. . vcrv del emptied * tin pot of the tec, lighted a cigarette, puffed out volumes of smoke fron -hen irdbiscoa crchange (1 us, and then to \ They needed no second inviutic but -.heir horses, whipped Knives, and commen kin: re thus en-a-cd. tli fr the time when we should be v. ; c> uj, ipercd L ven lushin* down do m^ ; Hng b ked our pipes, and i about the cai M.ded to have i. and then laid a hand on the ! appropriate our property t nt as if to start tip, and prevent the fellow from ; chief noticed the act, an :.aher sternly, quiet keep. I .icf, and take care of fr ,->oke in his native t he, the one who \v.i< making ^ e . >w seemed to hes :> ment, he did tion ! stf il " i:-,d this time a lutie more ln^ Lewey and /. rior retained his hold of the horses, in spite of their plunging, for they smelled the savage, and did not like his odor or wild looks. Then the Apache thief muttered some words which must have been impudent, or " back answers/ as we used to say on ship-board, for the eyes of the young Indian flashed like those of an enraged mountain lion. He bounded to his feet, snatched his long lance, that leaned against a tree, poised it for a mo ment, and only for a moment, and then sent it whizzing through the air ap parently without aim. But it was aimed true, and .vent with the force of a tornado. The warri or tried to dodge the Hying lance by ducking his head, but the barbed point struck him on the shoulder, and down he went. The warriors suspended their labors on the bear for a moment, and looked at their wounded companion, but no one offered to resent the injury. The chief muttered some angry words, and waved his hand. It was an order to one of the Indians to return his lance, and the youngest of the gang sprang forward, tore tiie weapon from the shoulder of the prostrate Apache, regardless of his injuries, and then handed the instrument to the chief with every mark of respect, and the latter received the spear without even a word of thanks, or a cold nod of recognition. He seemed to be accustomed to having his commands obeyed, and no wonder, for lie was the el iest son of the most powerful and popular chie in Southern Arizona, the celebrated Plomo, or lead, a savage now forgotten, but a well kno.vn character forty years The wounded sav.ige st.vjfgcred to his feet, and disappeared in the chappa- rel, where I have no doubt his injuries were dressed by a comrade, but no one sought to avenge the honor of the disgraced Apache, or took any fur ther notice of the incident. :dy you get," the young Indian chief said, as soon as he had shown ; ithority. Me show you place to cross de river. Ride hard, and no *ay nothin a ,out Apaches to Mexicans. Me spoken, you hear? " -d, and lost no time in preparing j<mnvy. We thought it was best to put some miles between us and the painted s;iv<iges. Our horses were in good order fora long gallop, and we mentally agreed not to halt until we had gained the shelter of the ranch at San Mateo, where we hoped to pass the night. -. - gathered up our blankets and stores, the Indians piled on the fire lumps of Lear and deer meat, and hardly allowed tl; warmed before they were piiU&d Crorn the ashes, and devoured, the Lewey and f. 183 and blood running down each side of their u^ly and dirty mouths, and from thence tri- ^icir naked, painted bre; e put the saddles on the horses, many a n as di rected to our blankets and stores, but not a I uttered, or a hand raised to help or restrain us from :ncd to excite ad miration, but no one ventured to lay a finger on our guns, much as they wanted to. The chief appeared to keep !. i his followers, and his was near at hand. In half an hour s time we were ready to vl looked an: e chief for permission to move on. He spoke a few words to a ;or, and the latter went in search of the mustang that had been hobbled the night before. It was not far off. Without saddle or bridle the young Indian sprang on its back, and motioned for us to follow him. " Good-by, red men of de mountains and plains," said Lewey. tur; Indians, for he could not resist the temptation to say a few words, like is mad all over, and desires the last expression of her opinion, nebber meet agin in dis vorld, or de vorld to come. . ve \o fear. A long farewell to all of you now and forebber, amen. Now I ne down to sleep," and here the boy forgot the rest oi Jon, and not wait for the gruff exclamation of astonishment from the savages, who were not aware of the benedictio . calling down on their heads * serious a strain. , j, and waved their soiled hands in token of fare- .u k <>f disgust at the painted dc\ trotted on ahead. ^ot out of such ciisn .eir heads, and manifest ;:eatbeir.^ society as they had been forced to consort with for t!. allowed the young chief along the bank of the stream. lc, or and then ice where his band had forded that morrr: .s not more than two feet deep, we judged, and we could sec the trail that lc-1 to it for a long di harply defined rass and high rhan; "H the chief his hand. 1 nebber i: i see mor . He tore off a feather from his headdress, notched it in a peculiar manner with hit knife, and handed it Wt thanked him for his Icind.icss, and then I offered to bestow a hand oi cy and /. .-.:! i. is protection. ded the lord, as i; ,. without ! our horses, and crossed the crick in . uht -round, turned in OUI still standing . left him, watching our movements. \V our nee more, touched our must. U possible, and that was the last we saw of lh< " I . Lewey, "if he did not much regret, ven he M . his dirty gang, (hit he no keep us ? " > :re on that point let us hasten our steps," I we went at a lively lope, and did not check our horses until \\e.x.j\vthat Jack was suffering at the pace, and needed a breathing spell. Then we .ed our steeds, and talked of the lucky escape we In 1 m ;,ow Mould be that we had claimed America . M, we still res, >ivcd to call ourselves . the next stopping-place, mil. is occupied by Inc: the sake of our lives we determined to be anything and , riser, .Mexican, or French. It did not mutter to u> .ir persons and scalps, for we thov-ht more of them ; TV. ic hour was early and cool, we got over considerable ground \ at times a little indistinct, but \ve pointed . A .ud the north, and could tell by the sun in which . iing. About twelve o clock we saw a spring bubbling up fmin .1 little sand-hill, and thought it a good place to stop and rev for . jn uttered a yell, rubbed his mouth, and ba> i - is de m : dog? " asked Lewey, and took his tin pot, dip : put it to his lips. ^tcre I & a ( lamation, such as he had learned on ,atcr from his mouth, and said, "It is hot as de infernal regions, and t.iste just 1 ke de pla-<? yoi: lie c.irtli. and kiil -; ittra t thousand iiave often wondered if that spr.ng h., Lewey and I. ,ent modern times, or if an earthquake h : the .rter. md for cokl water, and found some in the v.iih iron, but sweet and pure. T : thought it \s ve them a good feed and K ; we couid screen ourselves from the hot .1 few winks of sleep after our lunch. Then, t realized that we had nothing to eat except bread and co .,s of the deer with the Indians, glad enough to get ;n without claiming our property. There was a pro< :;ened to hear some cooing in a distan: -ere were thousands I themselves from tin- noonday IK ;.mce. Hoides, there were pic: - could kill all the birds we i.- >hot, sending some lurking Apache to our retrc.r. i :i rifle. med cruel to kill the gentle, pretty little things, so innocent of intern: ng on our part, for they did not --n I cr the tree. But we were huji^rv. and the It . aions. 1 picked up a club, and i: rith all , cstr(: . B. The weapon struck a thick c- "1 he uninjured ones just coocu a little louder than -. ) riy. , oil. and, as we had all that we co.. -me meal, \i\ the birds without further destruction. ti rejoiced when he saw *hat I had secured. He starU I then we plucked >ns, cooked them over the coaN . hidin- Jack, who h.i-i a whole one, him, which his looks , short nap. and we were arjoin .ilTicicntly cool. In this Lewey and 7. much better for it, although Lewey said that tlie sulphur bit some portions of his skin, where the bear had hit him the night before, and which riding horseback had not improved to any great extent, to judge by the way the French lad danced around on one foot, and uttered startling exclamations in several different tongues, and seemed inclined to be i; nant because I laughed at him, as I felt not his smarts. It is ca^ laugh at another s woes. We started on our journey about three o clock, our bodies and horses re* freshed for the ride to San Mateo, where we expected to find a ranch e, and quarters for the night. As we left our camping ground, which is now a railroad station, and called Vista, we almost regretted that we could not pass the night in such a pleasant place. But the fear of Indians \va our minds, and we did not dare to tarry any longer in such a lonely place. The trail for the afternoon led us over rough hills and sandy plains, and toward sundown we looked on a pleasant valley, and saw an adobe house and out-buildings, and more than a thousand head of cattle grazing on the rich grass. Two rancheros, mounted on strong mustangs, were clashing over the phin, but as soon as they saw us, uttered a loud Mexican yell, and spurred their horses toward the houses, as though to seek shelter from suspicious visitors. We did not quicken our pace, but moved along slowly, so that the people could get over their scare, and receive us as Christians, and not as Apache warriors, as they probably thought we were. We rode up to the corral, and then waited for some one to m;ikc an ap pearance. Two dogs were in the dooryard, but they only bark and did not venture near, for reasons best known to themselves. Presently we saw the door of the adobe house cautiously opened, ami a wild looking greaser s head thrust out, and a long, big-bored escopeta was pointed in our direction. Vho in the devil s name are you ? " was asked in Spanish. are friends," was our response, "on the way to Los We shelter for the night, and God will reward you for your kindness, as <ve c. 5 poor. .ere do you come from ? " and the d^or was opened a little further, 40 that a incl view could be obtained of our persona, and honest- "San Diego, and we are French boys, traveling through the country for pleasure." Lewey and I. 187 ; . -ing you permission for the journty ? " was next demanded. " Lots of them. Come and read them if you will," was our response. ,o one in this house can read," was the answer. We had expected the reply, so were not disappointed. " Then come and look at us. You have nothing to fear. We have ridden hard to escape the Apaches, whom we met this morning," I shouted. you mean that you have seen wild Indians nrar us? * and tli threw open his door, came toward us, gun in hand, followed . and ready to shoot at the first provocation. :r answer, as the men drew near and looked more friendly, seeing that we were not formidable appearing. " A party - I e Indi ans is at San Felipe Creek. We escaped by hard riding, but, as they did not cross the stream, it is probable that they have gone south on a i " Thank the saints for that," and both men crossed themseh mount, senors. Our house and all that it contains are at your not require further urging. Our saddles were taken from the horses and stored in a shed, where we knew the night would have to be passed, for it was the guest chamber for strangers, and then we piquetted our animals where the feed was good, and by this time Jack had licked the .to respectful treatment; consequently he was haj himself quite at home. : tied to the house two women had made their appearance, one the wife of the old Mexican, and the other the spouse of the son. Neither was very clean, nor handsome so Lewey had to content himself with erurn oling because they lacked beauty, and there was no chance for i:tter soft nonsense, as was his usual custom, when he had crtodo. The ladies of the house were a little diffident, and hardly raised their eyes to our faces, for the presence of strangers was em- hey saw so few in that lonely location. But they commenced the usu I deliberate preparations for supper, and soon the smell of tortillas arose on the air, and the mysterious olia was simmering on the inc. We had to relate all of our experiences with the Indians, but did not deem it best to confine ourselves strictly to truth in so doing. We said verc about to cross the stream, a band of Apacl. in our ; uttered yells and threats, but did not pursue us, and that saw of the savages they were headed south. We did not deem it best for the you-. :>ir it mig : made the Mexicans suspicious. Ncithtr did we hint that we had killed Leiuey and I. three Indians in the vicinity of the lonely ranche, and thus saved the life of a very sv.cct j*< I. We did not care to have the information reach the ears of the &ht desire to cross over the trail at some distant da\, nnd perhaps meet the savages a second time. x Why did not the ] ? " asked the old Mexican, as soon as we had concluded our yarn. better mounted than themselves, and had rifles," was our answer. " They feared our guns, and sure aim," making it appear that we were <!e:ul shots, and terrible fellows. .ire two of the best in the country. One of them we know well. It has been sidden by the government courier Pedro. He passed by here but a few days ago, * the old greaser remarked, and there was a tinge i in his tones. . in an indifferent manner, "we met him at Tobias s ranch?, and there made a vjood trade, our horse and eight reals for his." The son laughed, and the old man grinned. " Pedro is sharp and bright," the former said. " Holy Virgin, but he will be a rich man one of these days, unless he is killed by the Apaches. Only think of the rogue making such a bargain. Ah, to gain money one must with the world. How often I have said it, padre, and desired to go in search of fortune. There silver is to be picked up by the handful*, and all the people are rich." .lie oi<! man frowned upon such wild statements, and said mam had seen the wonders of the town, and pesos were as sc.. on \\v: ::d food much dearer. None but a loco would want to live were proud, and every door was not open to the - silenced, but not convinced, in this respect resembling children of our State, who tire of the homesteads, and want to see more of life than a little village can sho-.v. In the young man :s like the capital of the world, teeming with wealth and one suddenly rich. He had never read a page of a isc he could not, and what he knew about lite in other pa: :i the courageous priests, who once in a while ir, uit of ! districts, for the purpose of cl.ristenii,. celebrating mass, when there :her for the purpose of enjoying such r< of tobacco after supper. . <:-oun(l th Lewey and I. ., and tinv: to retire. The rant!. upon him in se O f ( i lc ere they would be us if we --e an atta 1. He stated that he relied more on his inhifl :i watchfulness, hated the sight or : of an Indian, .and would make noise enough to wake us up in case the Broached. The curs did not return the yelps of the coyote>. ecome so accustomed to their barks that no notice :i of :ig but the wild scream of a mountain lion, or the :ould disturb the sleep of a g ,r perfume ot md tiiat the < . detect, even if the Apaches were at a great distance. T iey may learned in some way that the Indians were partial to \>\ when at home, or in camp for any lengih of To be . l we secured our horses in the coi : Jit, an d . iired with our long ride, and the disturbed slum B had as bed fellows the usual number of fK-as and . quite tough, could endure a large amount 1 remain quite comfortable, and not awakjn to curse th- I men would have done, with less tender skins without an alarm. We were up soon aft-: ! the people of the hou> >ujht savored of weak m\:\ Is, T!ie son show, k countenance, and stated in the most candid no iter on either for some week*, and yet, he ur : not soile 1. \Ve did not dare to dispute the point with him, but re th.it he did not handle our food. The women s to endure, but shut our eyes, and hoped for the b< iered if we should die after eating a peck of dirt. If the proverb held good we feared that u\o nice your. 5 men would be taken off very early in the of usefulness, for nltl we rew.i md son with half a hand of co, to p.i. ^-nt, fed our horses with a measure few enquiries j our had bcn over it, and direc od us Lewey ana /. 11 as he was able, but did not speak in the most encouraging man of tl. and canyons, while cros.- he wuun.i i;;j - ing that the view from the summit of the ; i our route was something wonderful, bere us the cheering information that we ; cam: <>t of the mountains that night, it being dangerom the canyons in t!ie darkness, as a mis-step \v<uild cause U . iter-courses and rocks below. \Ve wei re burning, to frighten off the mountain lions and be;:- t to t the same time, unless we could rely on our dog t< the approach of wild beasts. :ed the Mexican for his advice, saddled our horses, and then the family, with a parting warnin. . for son whispered that he wished he v and d his company, provided he had ; on the journey, and continued the practice as ;S in our society, and handled our food its to the ladies, said " Adios, senors." to the men. and . at a moderate pace, to our own joy, at. Jack be clear of the companionship of dogs covered with llcas, a . nt most of their time biting and scratching at the hi: The leasant, with a warm sun overhead, and we had no f irt of the country, so rode on as unconcerned as men < > well acquainted with the trail. Lewey was unu- che tD me how anxious he was to see ! and that be .re been a fool to marry Florencia, and buried hi . e sake of any woman, no matter how handsome s : 1 tint he was as fickle as a spring morning, the boy only i that he could not help it. He was born so, and ,--.v called Aluchiola and Santa Ann, stopped i spring, where we had some more wild pigeon the orimi* -e method of knockin. n the br.. jbs, and, for fc per tim two dozer -I tbs birds, an 1 packed th of om Msetul articles. .ml ref. he mountains, and the i Jx>s 1 the town of thatn.imt and I. , 1 conclu-. ons and is on our way over tho o .mtains, the clangers u: found 4 nit it was not more than two feet cLej>, and e. ; he source was from the snow-capped hills, e [ ;ar as th see, north and south, rough and shag. : our horses near the stream, where the grass was nutrU firewood abundant, washed down from the mountains during the . . season, or when the snow was melted by the hot sun oi >nths. We found a huge pine-tree, under UK -s o) Ived to build our fire and sleep. To the trunk we could se .otses for the night, having them within the protecting light of th* mtain lions and bears a , had been understand that it was not the common black bear that would b on the mountains, but the savage old jrrsly or a cinna. : an i ma -i ana a more ac- .:nded, for he never knows when be , took my fish-line, >:led the a bite, but IK i.een v beavers, I had a beautiiu! rise-, and landed a pound . out of one prolific hole I caught six ha : ^b, fsiouu .-per ana . in connection with the ; to a feast, and a d<- t nised if they do not thto.v him a Minute or two, and reminds them th U they ar- :. cer- duties by iaying a paw on their amis every t nc choice bits. But there was enough for all of us, and even J.i .?, or the tail of at: :.on, I much as to sa >u think i am iat you desire me t >und the fire until the flame > ic shapes our :ncd us 0, . and out : for our < they uttered soft whinnys, as if pleading lor our presence, and the sou,-. and /. is indeed | m ,t hdpgl.ii. .> as we sat on the giound, a.v, >e c some- tni: - i^n^ r out from the darkness, and giving us no room : looked to our rules and pistols, tried tlie edges of our long knives, and, guns in hands, went to our hordes, and brought them under the pine- tree s sheltering branches. We had just got them secured for the night when a shrill scream came from a canyon up the mountain, . that a fierce lion was our neighbor, and likely to trouble . :ae hours, unless \ve could dispose of him in a satisfactory manner. Our horses trem , and even J.ick did not deem it advisable to leave the vicinity of the fire, and seek an er counter with the b : .unes, an | for the mountain lion tc show himself, but h .- dl 1 n >: seem disposed to \vnl-i . , for som< . We could hear him jump from rock to rock, and growl, and evi-r> Uer a yell that made us quake wi h ic.tr, but we did not go ii pursuit, and so sat there for an hour or more, until at List tl,e beast grew leaking near the horses. Then we got a fair glimpse o h : s .I:K| determined to test the effect ,11s, and see i, we ci/ui-1 not kill or disable him, as the hungry ,,le to ma! spring at any moment, either on us or the must.. Aim at de eyes," whispered Lewey, and, as he spoke, -,ve drew up our rifles, The s!i-,ts nvist have taken efLvt, for there were sin ill screams of paiw : then a huge, tawny-colored body, dimly seen by the flickering . _-s, bound i us, and landed directly in the rear of the horses, the worst place the lion could have chosen, for the no.-. d animals hunched out their heels in spiteful fur.. : v, iid beast square on the ribs and shoulder, sent it rolling over the ground, and in our direction. Before the brute could recover from its surprise we emptied the contents of our pistols in its body, but even then it tried to re- its feet, and renew the fight for life. Our dog now thought it time to show his spirit, and with a growl dashed at the hind-quarters of the animal, and nipped it near its tail, but the beast turned and struck at Jack so fierce a blow with its fore paw, that our pet s life wouM have en-led then and there had the claws touched him. Luckily, the dog was so nimble he avoided the stroke, and, before the lion could make another demonstration, we seized two large stones, and dashed them on the head of th This last assault seemed to finish it, Lmt to make sure work we continued the pros: : itil no si entured near the body, and s -D.it VCM veil done," Lewey rem.irk? !. . " De brute ^e re.i ly for cle next von." \Ve loaded our rifles and pistols, dr.u | "ce our horses, so that they could not see it, or sim-il th-- the mustangs until they quiet \onderful to note the actions .irikl kind words, and seemed t ence an;l power to keep them from all harm. Both of us did not dare to sleep at the s -tic re collected some fresh fuel, and then Lc and ile I kept the fire going, an-: lime, It terribly lonely that dark night, i . with not a human l>cin within t ith stra:- J ;hed :-i fully through the :e^ uttered sharp barks in the val in to the strange lights t nit did not venture mar us, and they )ad. i i knew their < nd kept the fir- ie of the Ut he s the it he uttered his dil aothcr diro -.ion, not VCOturil . had encountered all tin -r one ni. i as I thought of my loneliness, and how uncc; I seemed : .ired from sight. ! * sob startled me so much that I brushed the from my eyes. I knew that I " * nmed a sea-song, to kerp u;i my spirits, ami the unusual noise a :. but the lad mu>t Lewey and f. " Thorn, mon cher ami, you has been tear sheddin ," he said. " You deny it not. Unhappy is you." "It is a trifle," I answered. "A little lonesome, nothing more, old boy." rn, and much sleep take," the generous-hearted fellow De vatch vill I keep till daylight. You is tired, and the night has been a hard von for you. But, oh, vot booful times ve is habin . Did you ebber seed anycling like dem? So much better den bein on vonoldship.dat smell of tar and vater bilge." Do you think so, Lewey ? " " Do I dink so ? Vy, look here, ve is our own masters. Ve sees de country. Ve meets de nice adventures all de time. Von girl falls in love vid you today, tomorrow anuder von shins up to me, and so ve goes on, and has de fun all to ourselves. Ah, ve is habin much good times, and you don t know it. Vy, I vould n t exchange dis life for anydin* dat you can dink of. Now you lie down and sleep, as I has had de booful nap, and no more si^hin 1 , cos ve skall come out on top alvavs." He words inspired and made me forget the realities of my position. The :shed from my eyes, and the stars and constellations looked ;.eful as I laid my head on a saddle, drew a couple of blankets ove: and th last thing I heard, aside from the hooting owls I the coyotes, was the stirring hymn of the Marseillaise, as : it in his native tongue, between puffs of tobacco smoke. When I awoke the horses were already piquetted, a pot of . an 1 six beautiful trout were all reac! the hot ashes. My friend had been hard at work since da\ : reakfast, and getting ready for an early start. He xviti) the flsh > and said that he was a natural-born fisherman. a c! havc taken trou t from that stream, there were so man, p hole I h.i 1 nshcd the night before. 1 :lM ri * ht :nonnn ? f> my friend asked, as I got up, and itory to a good wash in the clear stream. " No de bad homesickness." r, in a cheery tone. a booful time ridin ober de mountain, e.V de valley and ,! e country, oh, for so m,ny miles. Ye skall b i de clouds at some nl.ices, and can vash our faces in de d, w if ve vants to, and de , r fa complex! And so the lad chatted on, wM_ Ulrica that I was dispirited, but the v an^l 7. i.iv:-ght had brought r un Vt i j ie >; ! on the nerves like a stimu- ..n the base of the mountains, 1 . to me ,1. Our friend, the bear, had come near him o:. ->ne v as soon as fresh f led on the flames, and once or twice . the mountain lion, and 10 blood wounds. We :..>. ..last, and were lighting our . ... : >: . : . . p yon on our , ..n. Tin r n of the; .i,res. They looked like mil , they were conceal- i 0:1 ly judge of the strar. - ,.e had seen worn !; rnia. The horsemen lid noi notice us for the first fc\v minutes a: re only awakened to our presence sitors loo . .-v that t - 1 very mi. intry. and we nearly choked with nv.ird the m >uata ;e by th :.iid, and that there .vas matle ,e undertaken if n entrance of the canvon the Mexicans -.as they . : ! a blanket, an 1 yelled at the top of his voice, : :h in thr i r we knew a i not use bv t 196 Lewey and I. reach one of cv.ir horses, so peacefully v.id th.it was something . when the Mexicans assumed a beligerent .-. Jit, both of us, without our ritles, showed ourselves, and e shout of, ;os." horseman, who seemed to be a guide, advanced a few paces, and said, If \ cu are friends come toward us without weapons. If you attempt any trick we will shoot you down like <.: We thought this a pretty lively threat, considering the whole party were i.-rror, for fear of their lives, an 1 that, if we had been so dis posed, by the aid of our rifles we could have driven all hands through the ;e, pell-mell, and the devil take the hindmost, for they would have sniffed Apaches in the air, and that was enou^a to startle a whole company of soldiers, make them break ranks, and take shelter under cover of the . ks. unarmed," we responded. " Have no fear. There are only two of us . - and the hitter will not bite." A Mexican fears nothing," the spokesman said, a little proudly. " He ed foe, but can contend with one if there is need to risk 50 much. Who are you, and what do you here in this lonely place ?" " We are young men journeying to Los Angeles, and enjoying the coun try through which we pass. There are no Indians near, we think, so you Come and cook your breakfast by our fire, as we shall soon start over the trail." 1 .- returned, and reported to the leader of the troop, and at last a U >v; <posul to believe our assertion that we were rot warlike. But they appro u h autiously, still holding their carbines in their hands, ami Lhem if we raised a finger to some hidden foe. When, re within a few fathoms of us we recognized several .own while members of the crew of the Admittance, and amn . reneral Miclneltoreno, at one time governor of the St. .to, and the person in whoss honor a fete bad been which Lewey and I officiated in a grand act of legerdemain, and then 1- a most wonderful fiery serpent, that all who beheld it, and dis gusted some. i young men doing here ? " asked the general a little stern- , y u-j United States, and we are suipicious of all people who cannot give an account of themselves." 97 All i t, their horses rcfu. :i it. M. what else have you done ? :cr h e had !iis curiosity about the I. " \Vc have met a pa aches on the trail, nc.. \ ranche," my French friend : ncounter. <f them? You speak the truth, v " A : < never lies, scuors. was th- . . . and a look SU( - <eral put on at one ; .cd to surrender at the r loo. ned so remarkable th.it \\x could see glar the Mexicans. Ti E warriors, and then cscap-- t^- mo salis, the effect of lively iin.i-i i;\t: " Tlic ins, and do not allow muchachos to kill an 1 . men with rifles in their hands, lestroyer! it, anr| you will learn the truth -. mchc, We are not such a confident tone that tncr . ion for his story. Mrou-h the State in the ,,>me tinv iy be America- to the ctr r way to the Ranche IMu-io to !,c m .in- then every Mexican ju extent, M -I so heartily t " ; ranting you j. to travel?" the gene denun <iener.il ,te JNh mmcndii. j , o f the people of Los Angeles. In addition we have Lewey and /. to his ti lends, the Senors Temple and Stenrns, of the Pueblo, so you see ot sospechosos," and as Lewey spoke he produced all the docu ments from the bag which held them. .meed over the letters and recommendations of the alcalda, and uttered a snort of contempt when Castro s pass was examined. He handed all back to us, and then asked, " Why did you leave your ship?" " We were attacked by the smallpox, and compelled to remain at San Diego for fear of contagion to the rest of the people on board the vessel, Lewey remarked. " But the disease did not leave any marks on your face," the general aid. . senor, the saints be praised, our beauty was spared." and Lewey uttered the words as though he believed what he stated, and once more the ; :-d with laughter at the impudence of the boy, he was so calm and cool. During all this time I had permitted my friend to carry on the conversa tion as he spoke better Spanish than I could, and showed what he claimed to be, a Frenchman, while I was fear ul the Mexicans would recognize- me as an American unless I held my tongue. "General," Lewey said, as soon as the laughter had subsided, " we have met you many times in Monterey, and yet you do not appear to recognize us. When you first took the office of governor we had the honor of giving a performance in your presence, and the same night let loose a fiery ser pent that was much admired." -x-governor and his friends took a square look at us, and then lize our faces, for all grinned, as the general remarked, Sa:-. . now I know yo i. W.uit a fright you did give the people .c town that night. I hope your captain punished you as you deserved, f ,r the Y .is. Why, you bad boys, even 1 had to dodge my head to escape being sin \ \ I tumbled over a chair and nearly broke my neck," one of the officers said. Hut the information we had imparted did not cause any ill feeling, and in .ill the group were seated around the fire, and cooking break- fnr which were unloaded from a pack-horse. We were but declined, as we had eaten all we needed before the party arrived. We gave the genera all the information we were able about the route, Lewey and 7. *99 and the Indians, and, while some of the peoj , ^ce their stej-s to the I ueb .o, others were in favor of - ** possible for S : to the Mexican pojts of the Gulf ot California. They had heard that the journey diflicul y ami danger, with but few residents, and tlu> dians of the sandhills and seashore, wit:-. .tc-r, inclined I bu.incss he attcn . ,;.s te United-States N lhe ly to overha-.il any craft th.it api n the officers save us directions how to pass t. the moun- filiations, we saddled our other farew. 1 .!. Whether \ ^ partj ^ ver succei : ic Gulf of California I never knew. It is a joi >uld not ke even at this late day, for the danger of I : thirst is too great to be undertaken without cache s of wate: itated intervals. I we entered the dark and cold canyon of the mounta ; ived our . lifted our hats, and were ! v of each other. The sun did not pene . ; on cither side of us arose the lure and with living rills trickling from the seams, and in s places beneath us were running streams, which we had no doubt contained trout, or other fish, for they were deep and cool enough for a pres a mile or more we did not sec an animal, so \ve expected to t conflict with : >e what a lion or bear would o eat in such a vast and sublime solitude, where a loud v. ated from arc to gor^ ^ant l) nr then rolled back and forth until the cries were repeated ,: as we h I iy uttered them, sharp and distinct. I over U5, three thousand feet at least, sailed back and forth scv ea gles for a brcakf.ist on the surface of the snow or the hard r- ready to pounce on a r: i coyote, and uttcrir as a swilt-winged ha\\k .ht at the an^cr of the kini:> and dung to : ,or on the trim ftu :ig for the s penetrale the can;,;>r., . I them into life an<l places we foi so^tccp, and the trail so narrow, we had to 200 Leiusy and I. . and f;ill into the 1 lie must.. i!ie walls, but showed no signs of i, and had a hand on their bridles. It was the m i then I ( .Mist, an army of brave soldiers, for a nuin- ..wn tlie sides of ihe mountain would ha\e ere..: i a movement on the ri<^ht of the canyon, and a rock :n below. \Ve stopped to see what had caused : lod : , and saw an immense bear perched on a craig, and . IS \viili \\is:i\il eyes, an.l probably mentilly calculating Lo\v u. :eals we could furnish. When he saw that our attention was at- led he picked up another stone and sent it after the first one, and opened lib capacious mouth, and actually grinned at the fun he w is having, i".r the brute looked down the wall of rock, saw the missile sliike the water. ihrow- . iii-^li in the air, and then glanced at us, as if to ask of the sport. We shouted back our applause, and the brute put his >i;. head one side, and listened until the reverberations died away, then gro out his thanks for our attention, aod tried another stone. We were tempted to use our rifles on the beast, but the exhibition he had afforded us was too be interrupted by a us n of pain, and so we let him When we urncd an angle of the canyon tlie bear was still on the spur of the wall, and gazing after us as though regretful at losing such For all of his friend y expressions ue were rather i the opposite side of tl. id could not dispute our :se over the mountain. 1 1 1 was after t v Ive o clock when we emerged from the canyon, stood on 1 summit of the mountain, and looked at the landscape l,i-!i-ath us. F.^r on our left were the bright blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, ruffled by the strong morning breeze, with miniature white caps all along the shore, am; i!es distant we could see tl 1 . ! of Cataline, IVdro, where we had rarru-cl many a hide on our h-ads in d t, "}> hid \\ith heavy i and lumber, and curbing the men who 1 u- to do su -h h-u-d work for six dollars a month. I would n t do it now f->r two hundr. d. A at our feet were fi ;i with the spring rains, and one tiou leased me, for I had nevrr seen a more I.eanli ul As near md it, the place that I thought so charmi; now the prosperous little town OJ for its fruits and Lewey and I. 20 1 /lowers, and : _-ak of not a l.< ;i the on- of head of cat j; on the rich j . not wit!, and un. Then th-.-re was th- : . . : i ting m . miles from i -vai the old mission, and ado . : : -resell tii. vcr in tlie Ian* i" thousands of peons, for their food and a shir: the government confiscated th . the IndL . -A ho fat tened on the misfortunes of the holy The latter damned th- :res went on j I >uU risk all t i the- ^ iall proba!. l\ never know who <jot the best of t; unk ita to testify on one side or the > charming that Lewt-y proposed \ve remain wlv . cook our dinner, but we lud noli. t coffee and . ban. . stream close by, so we gladly un> in in t . s mshine, and, while Lewey started a put on t:. took the .i>h-line. and went in si- t but a 1 cnoi; most gaudy fly, for h jumped at it re pulled from t . I had K :t, and they would i more than both of D .is a good lunch, a: it. ;em to perfect! on sat and . -\v of tlu . I like them. nd I. on the bushes, but waited until we had gathered a ban :!;en barked em until i is demands were complied with. t of berries, we lighted our pipes, and smoked, again ad mired the country, and then the enthusiastic Lewey, who was a lover of na ture, could not restrain his happiness, as he thought of the dangers we had passed through, and that now all was plain sailing before us. !!," he asked, " vot does you clink of d> - ck for de home lame last night ? Look all around you. Did you elx : -lng like it ? Ah, how happy ve should be dat ve is here and not on 1 mean old snip. 1 could smile and jump in de air I feels so good. In a few days ve jfcall see Anita and Engracia, and how glad dey be to m> Den all de trouble ve forgets, and ve lives and dies in . :>ooks all say/ I suppose that it was the air which inspired us, for we did y and contented, although we had not the least idea where we were going to stop when we reached ihe Pueblo. But we expected something would turn up, And did not despond. i-.vo o clock we saddled our horses, and resumed our journey, through . tst herds of cattle, and once ; saw a the animals, seeing that they did n<>: f.ir from the usual runs. Those we met did not pay us a n we drew near the mission of iel we ere cast toward us, and we thought the by our distinguished appearance, and were disposed ta < a hospitable welcome after our lorg and d. ver thtf mountains. i Los Angeles two horsemen, evidently caballeros, : us, and looked our mustangs all over, as if admiring them, as :, for they were unexcelled for speed and beauty, io you come from, strangers ? " they a in Diego, senors," was our reply. " Did you meet many people on the road ? they deman "Yes; this morning we encountered General Mic .iacltorcno and his suite, le of the mountains." the caballeros demanded. Is of Apaches, who were raiding the country, and st< ., and you esrao -c 1 (rorn *hem " and here the gentlemen tn, or be !. would not i the savages. : govern me in coi:; next question. -.irs. We saw him at Tobias s ranche, a hoped to get through the raiding parties, but who can tell " \Ve see that one of you is mounted on his i .n to possess it ? " 41 liy a trade and purchase, senors," \vc ar. The gentlemen exchanged glances, but ST. in we lit that we would ask a few questions i- -enors, where wi- can find I reside: a letter for him from a genticma i "Certair :!ie gracious reply, and we street, hundreds of people looking at us as we moved a seemed unusi e halted in front of a pretentious hous, tleman on :.inda, sn. .rcttes, and se\ iiim at once, and also two of the young senoras, for Admittance several times while we were I, Is. he caballeros ? and they galloped off, after tou sombreros to the ladies, and making their horses perform wonderful r the benefit of the fair sex. mounted and approached the ^entlcm.r.. some decree of wonderment, lor he die! not did the young la we a letter for ! the : . and that seemed to astonish my hearcr.v dressed in Mexican costume, and burned black enou half-! y. man alive, you are " saiii Mr. at nv . m ?" have just arrived, vou to direct us to t place where we can rem lays rest. We have li 204 Lewcy and L urney, and feel tired, for we have fought Apaches, mountain 5, and bears, and think we deserve a few days of Thj djvil, I should think so," was the frank exc .ama ion, and then he turned to the ladies, and explained in Spanish what 1 lud related. The R tor. to excite general interest, for the wo.nei all uttered the " Pobrecita muchachos," and crossed themselves at the name of the Apaches. Stearns read the letter from Captain Fitch, and then looked at us, more puzzled than ever, as he said, ; So you two young men were on board the Admittance, i? 1 recollect you now. But what fools you are to stop in this country just as a and every American is hated, except the old residents. And you think of getting married, my friend writes me. Well, well, this little too rich, upon my word," and the gentleman laughed until the tears came into his eyes, and then very correctly translated my story, and the contents of the letter. But the ladies did not laugh. They thought it was a little too romantic for anything, as they expressed it in a terse way, and warm words of ap proval of our course were uttered. A woman always sympathi/cs with par ties about to wed, and the poorer the match the more congratulations they bestow. So as soon as the young women heard that we were in love, and wanted wives, their hearts were in a flu ter. " Let them remain with us," they cried with one accord. " We will teach them Spanish so that they can converse with their future mates. It must be awful not to understand what a lover says." I did not utttr a word of the tongue they were conversing in, not wishing to break tht apfll of a good impression. " Well, have it your way," the gentleman said. "They are not our kind of company, but we will take care of them in some manner, and give them enough to eat." Then he called a peon to take our horses, and, as we removed our j ack- s to the rear of the house, I looked down the street, and saw the daik e of Don Antonio Sanchos, our worst enemy in all California, and the last person we desired to see at that time, as we supposed he was in Mon terey, and could no longer trouble us. CHAPTER VII. BOS MAKES IT UM LI.A.sANT, AND ACCUSES US <J9 MLH. KIER. T ALABOZO. AN : \, AM) I HURKli:U MA: UAIIHAKA. HO, AND (> WOMAN. j tat I diii not feel comfortable when I saw t : . Antonio Sunchos, the m.~.;i who had per il San Dici;, and by whose orders we had beea din tlie calabozo, a i to sign matriculador papers, and de- >:i of bec< \-icancitizcns. We th<> easer . .th his disreputable brothers *and folK ere we had u:. I some prospect of a fijht between forces uud tl 1 under Fremont. But the scoundrel ne time we noticed him. We would have avoid is too late, SO were not surprised when the fellow halted in from of Mr. Steam s house, and addressed the proprietor. .-.id, " two young men, one of them French and the other just arrived in town from San Die^o, and arc on your f it ? " asked Mr. Stearns, with scant civility, for he did not the most familiar terms with the visitor. r, I want tho^ nen a* nv. ri, I claim : the law echosos, aa enemies of the repul> :, aud iiicrc was a vraii from the ladies at the Lewey and /. words, aa thej bought of a wedding being postponed, and happiness stro was the reply of our host. "The boys are all right, and I xvii: tlicm - I have known them for years, and they never had the intention of injuring the republic. Go your way, Don San t them alone." The senor is not aware perhaps that I am the agent of the government, and have the power of making arrests when I will?" the asked. I know all that, but don t abuse those powers, Don Sancho the same ; arty that made can quickly unmake you, and I have a In fluence at Monterey with the governor and Don Pio Pico," Mr. Stearns re ma " I know the senor is powerful, and that his wealth is great, but all that will not orevail when it is known that I, the representative of the State, n ill-treated by the muchachos, imprisoned by their mean wounded by a gun which they fired at me, and that my brother Carlos hafi .-plitopcnby the desperados. Think of the wrongs I i. suffered, and then imagine if I can forgive them." w is this?" asked our host, and the ladies looked at us in wonder, thin ^ r e a little worse than the wild Apaches they had heard so much about, while at the same time they were disposed to admire u^ all that we had done, as women like bold deeds, even if they are not <i high-ton L-d and honorable. Mr, Steams seemed disposed *o demand an explanation, Lewcy, as the most fluent talker, stepped forward, removed his hat, bowed ? ich politeness to the ladies, smiled one of his most fascinating smi i as he knew would touch the female heart, and commenced th- our the hands of Don Sanchos, and in go< . comprehend what he said. re in love," he began, and at the words the lad! h m - re were discharged from our ship, sick wiih B : would terminate our young and innocent lives " (Lev. ful hen disposed to ihirk the truth, and - r et wns ould not live, and man we K hed to at Ranche ! pretty girls sobbed, and wi;.ed the tea: Ti:e romance was affecting them. " But the good saints, under ^whpse watchful care we recovered," and Lewey and I. 207 fcere the l.J crossed himself in true Cathol willed thr to pass our i! voted hus jeaiiiiful ladies than any quarter of the globe. ;n!ry, nv; ; nia in lr.. :erican friend ; .ys that the United i of the repu .ike a garden of ro rain, ai me i:i a manner th.it I understood, fr I r. in acq\ .o all that he had stated. The elderly women smiled as they thought of <1 the b they had possessed, and represent. it each other, and seemed to come to the i n of discernment and good : ;ch circumstances it is no wonder we desired to remain here," . but, while we were making preparation so dearly love, this man, Don Sanchos, appeared . >echosos." the State/ interrupted the greaser. . -,vey, not noticing therema: -. se at ;red him for insulting two la co." kCbOS, 1 murnv:red the i^iils. and glanced at is - iere their sympathies were. rht hand, where the vivi : the point of a boat-hook, as he said, :eatment that I received at the hands of th for nothing. I h to remember it, an shall. * . our inv.-ris.inment in the c :o marked. ,- love for /^hter, and s-vearin. ing i! .inches. The ladies looked a little shocked, as th- had never heard ot such t! not in the least dismayed. He remained cool, an.! :o take ad c best p< "\\> cv.riM-.l-d in the keeper s daughter, and told her that we were to be 1. that our hearts were true to those we loved, but scorned to tell a 2O3 Lt wty and I. it we fancied her when such was not the case, my fries. i Sanelu i an incredulous manner, just as though he could it. " The young lady did not let us out of our cell, but when we n escape was possible." My friend was determined to shield the girl, even at thee\ | truth, feared she might suffer for what she had clone in our behalf. Eorc the ladrones escaped they bound. . me in 11 which they had occupied. Besides that their confounded i.uled Sanchos, and the ladies did not seem to feel much pity for his misfortunes. In fact, the man commenced stripping up the bottom* of his slashed trousers to show where Jack had fastened his teeth, but sud denly recollected that the ladies would not be interested in old st . trained. .?, that was wrong," Mr. Stearns said, but he looked as though he grieve verv deeply for the part we had played. The sen*.; agent of the government, and should have been treated with respect. How ever, that is all settled now, I hope. I will be security tor the young men s rood behaviour as long as they remain at Los Angeles." owed our thanks, and looked our gratitude. the way," Mr. Stearns asked, "did n t I hear something about one of you lads being offered a commission as midshipman on the sloop-of-war Ceynne ? " " It was my friend, Thorn, sir," answered Lewey, before I could deny the report. " He is rich, and has lots of money, but loves California more than me." Lewey was the most wonderful boy I ever met for ready answers, and some of them were not always true, I regret to say. But he never blushed when telling an untruth, as he looked honest and confiding, with th of sincerity shining from his blue eyes. The ladies were delighted with the answer. In their estimation I was no a common sailor, but a caballero, a gentleman of means, and their t in me increased, although they might have had some thoughts that I was throwing myself away on a poor girl when there were so many rich ones who desired husbands, and wealth at the same time. "Now, Don Sanchos, go your way," Mr. Stearns said. " I wi.l see that oung men are looked after, and taken care of. Let us have no more trouble. They have come to me highly recommended, and I under stand that they also have a letter for Mr. Temple from my ohl fiien tain Fitch." and I. . Sanchos did He , .ic man-- rubbed his DO IM, a ,, nsare q would be satisfactory, .vcrnmcnt I have a more serious charge to . men, and even you, senor, will not uphold them in what they h .dered what the greaser referred to, and en what track he I . come, don t let us have any more charg, .team, cried. . nigh for one cL . and the ladies all a men to the words. lor, that I cannot yield to your wishes," Sanchos said, a. d his hand in a peculiar manner, and up the i nen moving and in the crowd we recognized Carlos - -oumlrclasliis brother. .nishment he felt. M young men/ the greaser said, as he stepped crime of numi I an exclamation of horror from the ladies, and wonder and What did the fellow mean ? Was this some new d .^ower, and punish us ? yourself, senor." Mr. Stearns cried. These are serious words. He \ you trifle with tlv ght matter, senor," the greaser remarked, in a mint ,,f these young men has in his possession the , the courier. He was due here y yet no wor ;m. It is rumored in town that the ranch- -en n derr :,,m San Die-o, and that these boys committed \ on of the horse. Look at the brands on the ani , will see that they are Pedro s. There is no r, -ear to them. They know the caballo well. ! these men have for making way with his despatches, and give them to the enemies of th of the lav- of the State ot Tin- ,)odof tor OUI 2 TO Lewey and I. I did so, but spoke in English, as my Spanish failed me in my eagerness >\v all the circumstances of the case. .-re at Tobias s ranche," I said, "after we had kil.ed three . es "(here Sanchos smiled, as much as to say thai iderstood a little English) "the courier arrived with despa: the alcalda of San Diego. He was piqued with our bra vary, and commended us in warm terms, and, because I admire;! his 1m: make an exchange with me, I paying him eight reals in r the animal. Senor Tobias, the owner of the ranche, for the grati- ie felt because we had saved the life of his daughter, made my friend Lewey a present of the caballo he rode. You can see the mar, large T in a circle. This is oar defence, and is the truth, so h God." "I believe you," .\K St.-arns said, in all sincerity, and then he related the story I had told to Sanchos and the ladies, and the generous females were delighted when he came to that part whereby a girl was \ the Indi.ms. is the lie of a gringo," the greaser remarked. " It will not me. The young men stand charged with murder. Until they can prove that Pedro is alive they must be kept in prison. Let no man keep in my way, or the worse for him. In the name of the law I arrest them." The ladies uttered a series of shrill screams, but after they had been si lencecl Mr. Stearns asked, \Vi:i you accept security for the appearance of the young men tomor row before the alcalda ? >r. To the calabozo they must go ; and await certain events/ was the answer. i see, boys, I have done all that I can for you," our host said. " The man has the power to arrest you. The charge is a serious one, but I it will be disproved. I will be present before the court tomorrow, and, in company with Mr. Temple, do what I can to confound your ene- >ii)le, and look for the best result- assured you s , i n t .^tirve while in prison." Will you permit us to k> ive our property here until w 1 are acquitted or sentenced?" I asked. "Our rifles, knives, and pistols, horses and blan- should find it hard work to replace th >s on that point," our host >ai-l. "I v . that all are taken care of, and restored to you as soon as free, which I hope vill be in a few days." Lewey and I. 21 1 I remar >on of- It the ani v command him to do so. II : .uvarc tin: .me h.is overtaken us. You caa tell his lo< turn. Do you h< He did hear, but a look of deep dejection passed ov ; and he ik th.it we woui . not fort! i, and did not offer to > moved from the house, escorted by the bodyguard ent of the State. Then he raised his head, and uttered a prolonged h. one of the ladies patted his veil at the same i. Our through the main street was quite an event for the sleepy little t uvcned from their usu.il af:erno.> Us, and were r-. ^olves b. . at the d on the which \ve were accused was repe./ :noulh is all had not heard our defence, we wet to be guilty, and th >:ne talk of hanging or shoot: out ii= I really believe that 1) o.i Sanchos w,> .1! ; :i only too delighted had such action occurred on the part of the populace, the : :v of whom were none too good for such lawlessness, but the best ptople were j ; .vcr, when we were half way to the calabozo. Yearns and Temple a; the scene, and their presence seemed to have a bene ficial c our fortunes, for the peupie kept at better-disposed women saiii that we were "pobreciu woul.l pardon us. 1 wonder if th.it old calabozo is still in existence in Los A Prol> ably the march of improvement has been the means of erect itone prison instead of an adobe one, where refractory I:: c con- icrs were locked up after an extensive at ; rum, or aguardiente. :iiend Lc ne, the last time I saw him at Cherbourg, some Angeles in 1854, his 5! ; that he saw the same place in which we were confined, and en tered the room whcu we were kept as prisoners, and that all remained as Lewey and I. clu ou no one would believe that the polite naval officer had ever been IOCK and key in the Pueblo, even Stearns and Temule re- recognize the captain as the poor bov who had claimed their pro- some years before, and he had to mention manv particulars of cer- tam^transactions before he was credited with being one and the same "ere escorted to the calabozo with a* much , sistent with men who would like to have sold us our fr< , a small >um, provided Don Sanchos was willing u ut , as he cared more for ven- than money just at that time, his gang did not dare to make any op- position to his wishes. Luckily for us there was no inmates of the prison at the time, so we had the fleas and odors to ourselves, and, after the keeper ha I turned the i us, and then went home to get his supper, we had an opportunity to 2 talking and consulting. Lewey s confidence never left him. lie s jaunty and self-possessed as a man who could command instant lib- ion m case he desired it. I think that much of the elan was put on for the I making me feel more comfortable and at ease. We were about to light our pipes, and have a quiet smoke, when the keeper of the prison returned to us in hot haste, and brought some food ee, and fruit, and said that we were to be made comfortable regardless expense, and forthwith he produced half a dozen blankets a light and blocks of wood for pillows, and when we inquired ,vho had been so kind he nnned, and showed us a Mexican dollar, which proved that some one had ribcd him to look after our welfare. We had no doubt but that Mr teams and his family were acting with energy in our behalf, and did not intend that we should starve or suffer if they could prevent it. ir situation, and confessed that it was not a comfortable me in case Pedro did not turn up, or was found murdered on the trail, and and circ.vned of the Admittance, surf, hide-drpghlng, nc women, and when we awoke the j.iilor brought us * cal* watcr frr , ent to escort us to the :eof! "all of justice a peculate OB the crime Amo: we had seen the day be- re, and each of them t smile, while Messrs. Stearns and Temple Lewey and /. came to us, and exch They said that they -i to ask for a continuation of the case until another day, in hope would turn uj> iro. ikla had taken his .sc.it. a lav. _ acd to act for the government, stated the case in very < -ty of the crime, and then Mr. Temple put in a few wor He had kno.vn us, he said, as honest, hard-working bo would commit murder. One of us was an American i and tlu- e of France, different from the usual run 01 :o call their home. Don Antonio S iiispcred a few wor .ernment, and the la . 14 These voting men are no longer cit France and the perfidious >u!)jccts of Mexico, for they \ thus tak: . : steps to be naturali/.ed. \Vc : .> with oui intrymen.* ..sked Mr. Stearns, turning to us. ;r prompt ans. ievil s name did you do that 1 were in love, and wanted to get marrie :. ly. the cheerful response. " D :>posed it I . ht." .ist to luck, an i-n ttirmii vious to become citizens il to the j ; : ie reason- ! the question, alth r at the time. 11 A cll, it seems t! ild not be performed unless tions to i , 214 Lewey and I. cnce, and smiles and blushes on the part of the ladies. The latter 1^ : i =it our ambition a notable one, something that should be commended, instead of ridiculed. have to ask for a continuation of the case," Mr. Stearns said "Let the matter lay over lor a few days, and perhaps the courier will turn up all right." " We can .-.ule the subject at the present time just as well as thot: \ waited a the advocate for the government said. California now j. Monterey is threatened by the United States. Already a horde of robbers and murderers has invaded the territory. We must d them back to the mountains, or po ute our soil with their graves. Let the young men volunteer for the army, and the case will be instantlv closed." : the lads did not matriculador for any such purpose," Mr. Stearns remarked. " If there is any lighting to be done they prefer to do it after they are married," which candid remark produced a laugh from the men, and a pout from the women, the unmarried ones looking quite spiteful. " Let the prisoners decide the question," the alcalda said. " They are old enough to choose between imprisonment, or freedom, and the gaycty of a soldier s life." " Vot skall ve do ? " whispered Lewey, but, before I could answer the question by an indignant refusal, there were murmurs of astonishment, and then came a c.iorus of voices, and the cry of, El correo, el correo," and pushing through the crowd we saw the mus cular form and handsome face of Pedro, the government courier, the man ^ ve ; it Tobias s ranche, and with whom I had exchanged horses, and paid a little to boot. Antonio Sanchos did not look happy when he saw Pedro s known face, and his eyes showed some of the disappointment he felt as the icr sauntered forward, and stood in front of the alcalda. Every one in the room knew the ranchero, and all were glad to welcome his return except our enemies. Mr. Temple, a smile on his face, sprang to his feet, and addressed the alcalda. " Senor," he said, " here is the caballcro who was supposed dead, and whom th _ men were accused of murdering. Let him be put on the stand, and questioned. You and I and every one present know him well, and are sure of his truthful character." " Si, si, "was heard all over the room. " Let the correo speak, and tell As what he knows of the young men," Lewey and /. 215 But Pedro did not seem to take heed of the murmurs. He looked around upon the audience as though he did not quite 1 what the ill about, and, as his eyes roamed here and fell on i, and a smile lighted up his count \ :k eyes, as he sprang toward us, and seized our hands, giv almost made the tears start, and then patting us on the backs with both hands shouted, * Amigos, amigos, como se va? " or in English, " Friends, friends, how do you do ? " There was a great shout from the audience, an 1 the !es looked ai though they wanted to kiss us, and we felt so pleased that we would have willingly cast aside our timid modesty for the time being, and con sented to the embrace. "Do you know these young men?" asked the alcalda, as soon as the noise had in some degree subsided. ; , senor," Pedro replied, in a loud tone so that all could hear. ate what you know about them," was the command. " One moment, senor. I am a government correo, and must deliver my despatches before I answer any questions, or talk on matters that do not concern the publl welfare. Here are papers and letters from the alcalda of San Diego. I h.ive just arrived from that town, and come, to your court to deliver my messages. I was not aware that my two friends were under arrest. I know not or what. The rourirr placet in the alcaMa s hand a bag containing the documents, and the official glanced over the papers, but made no comment as he read them, yet the ne is it announced plans for the war, antf preparations for a vigorous defence. nor correo," sai 1 the alc.iM.i with a sigh, as he read the news, and rea!i/-d what the result m \ill please take t:u a know about these young men." \Ve have no desire to hear the correo, senor," the government attorney * \Ve are satisfied that no murder has been comm with- ie charge." . no," came from all parts of the room. " Let the correo speak at once." for the reputation of the *orreo ." Mr. Stearns cried. " They have told their s :ro tell his, and we shall see if they a^rcj in their account meeiinz." i L < on, 1 edro," ordered th the youn- men befon s, senor." " Where did you first encounter I "At the ranche of Tobias, fifteen miles or more f.om San Diego, where they had remained over night." are friendly to the young men ? was the next question. ,:ias Dios, I should think BO. They saved my lite, and that young girl, Florencia, the daughter of the r.mchero." "In what manner?" and all the people in the room leaned forward ;.i catch every word that Pedro uttered, as he answered the question. "The senors had started on their journey for this place, but met on the road the Senorita Florencia, who was looking for the e-. , : ls. While exchangin- salutations with her on the trail, a hand of four Apache warri- irst from the chapparel, and rode toward them, wiih the intention of making a prisoner of the girl and killing the caballeros." At this stage of the story the young girls uttered sobs, and the elderly ladies crossed themselves, and said shor ie men would have turned their horses heads and fled," the correo continued, "but not so my friends. They said to eac-i other, We will save the young girl, or die for her. Here there were ripples of applause, and the ladies flushed bright glances as though we were real heroes, and for a noment forgot their " Go on, and tell us what was the result," the alcald i commanded. " As the murdering devils of Apaches charged on the young men, they dismounted, told the girl to make her escape with their horses, and stood their ground, and fired." S," cried a dozen voices. " Go on and tell us the balance of the : " .o of the cruel thieves fell, and the third was also shot as he ad vanced. The fourth Apache was killed s just as he was about to \e Florencia. None of the wild Indians were alive when I arrived few hours after the battle." is the ver.iict of the people. " I Jut how do you make it that the young men saved your life?* :hc district of San If the young men had not been present they would have killed -ae. 1T7 ! hey were concealed in the chaj ; all ! couKl not have protected myself against the sudden at- r this reason I say that I am indebted for my life to the senors. e them muchos gracias." The aiulience gave expression to their joy by a loud hands, i \\avcd rich fans, and looked pleased at the result, so unex- I pected to all. v did you happen to let the young men possess your horse?" the -,oon as the confusion had subsided. . blushcJ a little, and looked abashed for a mom at I ben I, anil said. caballo was tired, and I needed a fresh and fast horse to run the * gauntlet of the wild Indians. The senor liked my animal. I favored his, as I knew that it could travel faster than mine, when properly managed. I :_, and received eight reals to boot. I : bar- I gain for me, but if the senor is dissatisfied I will return him the money," is point the audience laughed, and nodded to each other, as much as to sr.y Pedro was a sharp one, and no mistake. " The horse is government property, and the correo had no i ,ge it," the attorney for the State cried, inspired by Don Sanchos. .ro grinned at the advocate, as he said, 41 If the senor will look at my instructions he will see that I have full power to buy, exchange, or take horses where and when I please. It t*ed me to exchange my steed for another, and I did so. But I will give him back to my friend, for I fear I cheated him." Then the people once more smiled, and, when I shook my head, and 1 that I thought I had the best of the bargain, there WAS a general roar, : even the alcalda joined in the mirth. - ca- is dismissed," said the magistrate. "The you; barged." Messrs. Tcmplt and Stearns came to us and shook our hands, and con gratulated us upon our escape. But just then Don Sanchos made his voice laim these young men for the army of California," he said. - U> ncc :<;h peopk .riculadors they must serve when railed up- . Let them be enrolled at once, anil .s terminal: i of being enrolled as M and compelled the United States, but the Lewcy and I. " The young men can be enlisted among the brave defenders of the State, but they have the privilege of receiving a month s otice before being called upon to serve. This is the law." Then, in conformity to the law, 1 give the matriculadors one month s warning, Don Sanchos said, and he gave us a look that show >.ild not forget the exact time. But we ans vered his glances with a gesture of contempt, for we had beaten him three times, and hoped to be enabled to do so again, if the occasion served. The alcalda arose, bowed to all present, and retired, and then we found ourselves surrounded by the foreign residents, and congratulated on the victory which we had gained. One lady, an aged dame, kissed us on both cheeks, and called us blessed. She was a widow, and wanted a second husband, and probably thought we might answer, but she smelled of garlic, and her teeth were bad, so was out of the question as long as there were young girls ready to take us for partners. We did not get to Mr. Stearns s house till near three o clock. Pedro went with us, and told us how he had escaped the Indians on the route, and that it was thought the savages had returned to the southern part of Ari zona. At all the ranches he had heard only praises of our conduct, and a fervent hope that we would return some time. We sent our compliments to Florencia and the other ladies, and Pedro said that he would del: them when he again passed over the trail, which might not be for a week or ] ten days, just according to the news from Mont-.-: Our dog Jack was frantic with delight when he saw us, and could not do enough to show his pleasure. He had been very good, and only m.inlfc.- his loneliness by whining once in a while, and looking down the street to see if we were coming. Our host gave us a very good dinner, and in the ev tcrtained the company with an exhibition of legerdemain that the \ .js, and caused them to marvel at our skill. rt day Sanchos and his gang left the Pueblo, and every one was ..it he and his followers were gone, and it w . i never re- tut n. *,ix days at Los Angeles, and then announce 1 our in- r Ranch vere more urgent than the l.idies of the ho that ! duty c, "ne morn I e all a ..as said. Letvty and T. 219 lads, there arc several ships on the coast. Get on boarf ne of them, and stay there. Do not come on shore if you - Lt the girls alone, and some i! ae for my advice, f. thi best that I can ^ We promised to think of the matter, and then saluted all who were pres ent to see us off, and trotted down the street, Jack barking himself hoarse with delight at the prospect of meeting more adventures, and once in a B monotony, dashing at some greaser s dog, and lending him scampering homeward, his stub Uil between his legs with e\\ dence of i h us for ten miles or more, just as an act of courtesv. He to our route and halting places, and the most feasible way of crossing the coast range of mountains, between Los Angeles and md when he had commended us to his patron saint, said that God would watch over us, shook hands, and dashed back to the town Bke a and I pursued our journey all alone. remarked my frien r the trail, " dat ve made von great mistake. Ve should have married two of dt sweet little girls oi s, and settled "And let our wives I asked. iom, so de ding is ecp.u. Vc might as veto take life easy in von place as anudcl !es, I dink dem Pueblo senor money dan de udders." from Anita and E:v^racia?" I askfd, a lit proacl.; ie and seed em vonce in a vhile," and the i wink that was suggestive of an easy conscience tion. is which he entertained the French ie on in silence for an hour or more. . that Lcwey did not love the girl he hkd sworn to strongly as he might have done, or he would not !>y the pretty faces we had seen since leavin uld be some difficulty in him to give i.l unless .vent with it. However, I trusted that thi produce the usual results or mind, i nined not to argue with him on the subject, as such a !! make him more obstinate. \clve o clock we had climbed the summit of the coast range of moun ts Lewey and /. I.TRS, and looked once more on the Pacific, and the islands ti;al extend inta Barbara to San Pedro. The .1 ma^- nifitent one, and, while we halted to partake ot a slight luncheon, and rest our horses, a Mexican ranchero rode toward us m>:n a trail that lei: hit > the valley, in the direction of Buenaventura. II mv_: fellow* ; nd not prepossessing, and there was something in his face that re- . J the features of Don Sanchos and his brother Carlos, bold and The ranchero rode up and saluted us in a frank manner, asked where wo were going, and the news at Los Angeles, and, when we had answered all of his questions in a satisfactory manner, intimated that he had a ranche a short distance from where we were resting, and would be glad to welcome us to his house and all that it contained, if we would honor him \\ith a visit. , v, in his usual impulsive manner, sprang up, and proposed that we should accept at once, but I felt such a repugnance to our visitor that I declined, pleading the need of haste to reach the end of our journey. : a feller you is," Lewey remarked, in English. " Ve can go and see his home, and perhaps he has a booful sister dar." But I was firm, and at last the visitor looked the disappointment he felt in not securing our presence at his ranche, and then in a sullen manner mounted his horse, and, as he did so, asked, " Ar<- your rifles loaded, amigos ?" I do not know why, but I made a prompt response that was not exactly truthful, as I ?aid, in a careless manner, Oh, no, wo did not think it worth while, as the mountains are safe, we have been told." - You are sure ? " was the next question. 44 Yes, quite." The fellow instantly put a hand to his mouth, and uttered a peculiar crv, and out of the bushes sprang three horsemen, all with long lariats in their hands, and swinging them as they dashed toward us. -render, you gringos," cried the man who had wanted us to visit his ranche, and accept of his hospitality. We jumped to our feet, and laid hands on the rifles that were near, sur prised but not dismayed by the advance and sudden appearance of the greasers. \ t once that there was a plot and trick of some kind to capture us, but for what reason we cguld not divine, as it was unknown Lewey and 7. hat we had money on our persons, not having revealed the secret to a sin. vr.Le we ha i .oubloons it SUB >kcd Lewey in It il you are ray prison " Surren der, or we will drag you down the side of the mountain at the end of our lariat 5." 14 Keep off," we cried, as we backed against a pine-tree, the branches ol which would shield us from the whirl of the unerring lariats. " If you dara to molest us we will kill you as we would a mad dog," and we raised our rifle* in a threatening manner. " Bah, we do not care for your escopetas," was the cry, as the horsemen formed in a line, and looked for a chance to ensnare us with their but the tree afforded shelter, and they could not touch us or our horses, ai the branches extended for a long distance, and our backs v trunk of the stout pine, or red wood, I have forgotten which. The new-comers seemed to fear the muzzles of our guns, and rather held back, until the owner of the ranche, an ^ shouted, a need not care. Their rides are empty. Ride th if the . .s dare not come out and have a fair fight." > cool, even 1 Four mounted, expert young man to leave the shelter of a tree, and trust to their quickness in dodging the deadly rcat.is, which once over our focms was certain death, or maimed for life. " we cried, in a calm ton i th.it there is death for two of you if an attack is nude on us. Our riti loaded, and we know how to use them. Ladrones of the d - us in peao . will not harm you." greasers laughed at the advice. They thought we captured sooner or later, and while we were Hinted to act to better ad vantage 1n approach in hen I noticed one <\vn. and d knew the meaning of the action as well as it the f told me what he in- t o. He would poise the cuchillo for a moment, and then let It fly through the air, and it prol> I hit within a few inches of the spot he aimed at. I had seen the trick pen .. prepared for it. " Lr Yispercd, "the greaser is a! at u* Take cart," Lcwey and /. .1 little lead at him afore he has de chance," was the ,. sharp knife, and the next moment it would 1C of .ur bo-Ik--;, b It I stopped his pleasant littlt- .i.ly to throw, J aimed my rifle and fired. The ball s shoulder, and, with a yell of pain, the knife was d round, and the follow nearly tumbler! over backward, so t . nt. use to the report of the rifle, far doun the mountain waa h< an! the fan-fan of trumpets, the loud, , msic, such as the California troops were accustomed to listened eagerly for a moment, then mounted, and dashed spurs in thoir hora i, and disappeared down one of the narrow trails that led we knew not where. inach full dat time, Lewev cried, as the last of the Mcjrf- from si-ht, only the lad did not use quite such polite Ian- written. You -ib von of clem somethin dat he \\\ member and many a Ion- day, and t!c pain vill keep him a :rc. Ah, to clink dai I vanted to ^, \: . asc r, and felt vould no: . Yoa vill forgib me, boo ( the French boy extended his hand, j J i: was always re . for- i he had done anything more foolish than usual. the mou-itain we heard the shrill blast of the trumpets, the sound re-r :n peak to peak, and at last we saw a troop of Mex- out the narrow trail at a slow pace. f..r the ascent d dangerous, and at the head of the column were seven i in showy uniforms, with heavy sabres at their sides. Th- hundred men in all, but the fellows were s i yet they made excellent horsemen and ca; .:*, quirk and in the information they obtained of an enemy s position and .ifterward lean. .rid sec de sojers, or cut and run for it r " as had alre. mmentin^ on our uncx- CC in that part of the country. I thought that we had better . but just as I spoke the it to see if there was a force back of us, and ;. It is probable that the keel Americans were st nircli on the ; the mountain* to t i.ink and :\ done vei noth ;> the front or water own, our rnment did not deem it expedient to co . miles instead of one. In fact, during the war, a midshipman Iruin the ate Congress or Savanna!), with twelve men, held the for several weeks, and then marched out of the ru - ted all the honor- : ter being threatened by some hundred . should have eaten them up before breakfast, as a litlie h: en their appetites fora more substan ial meal. . ory cautiously, halting their mus y few paces so that a good look could be obtained of us, but, when we rose up, showed our powerful forms, the soldiers dashed into the bushes to -hot might whistle around their ears. To prc> further complications, and not provoke the men, i a scrape in token of peace, and then the scouts came toward us, and looked with as tonishment at our persons. .ncmber you is a Frenchman for dis day at least. -aid. as th? cavalry advanced up the mountain, and halted near our resting place. i the officer commanding, "and what are you do- .swcrcd Lewc on our way to get . men and offic -1 and shouted at the information. It was a little singular that people always smded and joked us when we stated that we : about to be married, just as though there was something to make mer- mcement. We thought it was rather a serious piece of business, and most folks find it so before they die. \V ra leave Los Angeles?" asked the commander, as soon as the laughter 1; ed. \Ve told him, and also said there was no news of importance at the !o. The o.i.Mu-1 ! going to the town to : the land at San Pedro, and march to Los Angelt they i an out and out i ner, about the only victory the . : ates es, composed a! the >u papers permitting ) through the cou: Lewey and /. asked the officer, after \ve had given him all the information we thought desirable. " Certainly, senor," was our answer. " We have a pass from General Castro. Shall \ve produce it? " " Yes, let me see it. We handed the paper to him. He read it carefully, and then returned ii to us. * That is all right," and then his eyes fell on our rifles. The pistt had put out of sight, as we feared the soldiers would be tempted to take them. "I heard a shot as I came up the mountain," the colonel said. " What were you firing at?" 41 A deer, senor," as we did not deem it advisable to tell him all that we knew. And you missed? with a laugh. " Yes, senor ; the deer was a long distance from us. " Let me see your rifles," was the next command. Lewey promptly stepped forward, and held them up for his inspection. "These are good weapons. I need them for my men to fight the Ameri cans," the officer remarked in a very cool tone. " I will keep them." "Is there anything else you would like that belongs to us? Lewey asked in a sarcastic manner. Yes, your horses. They look like good ones, and well broken to the saddle. We will take them." And also the saddles?" demanded my friend, keeping down the rage that wanted to find vent. " Yes, the saddles also." " Perhaps you need our blankets ?" Lewey inquired, with a sneer. " We can use them," was the prompt r " I 11 be hanged if you do," my friend cried in Spanish, and then threw up his arms, looked down the side of the mountain, and shouted wildly, while he seized the two rifles from the officer s hands, tossed them to me. and continued, - .cias Dins, here comes Fremont and his desperate gang of trappers and wild Indians. We shall all be n: id blood if we are cap tured. Save me some one." " Atlelante," yelled the commander of the cavalry, not st- see if the report was true. with a yell the*whoU body of men struck their spurs into the horses sides, and went on with a . and I. 227 ish so charming to see that Lewey just laid down on one of .red until the tears blinded his eyes. : the troop the colonel was a little ahead of his men, but not much, and leading the jre the two trumpeters, their instru ments over ti. ..ml noun . jump of the mus- t lose any time in saddl! our traps, and descending the mountain trail, only to ascend another that seemed ..T than the OIK- pushed on until near night, whet. came to a lonely ranche in a valley, and craved permission to pass the night under the shelter of an out-bu . e owner and wife were a little had been can cavalry in the morning, and the bol i : everything they could lay their hands on, be sides helping themselves to hoi two bullocks, the latter eaten for . only the choicest ! the dainty soldiers, and the rest thrown to the dogs. looking after the horses, and piquetting them the grass was good, I took my rifle, and sauntered along to the edge of j tree*, and ma ^tumble on a fat doe, which I shot, and carried to the house. We dressed the carcass, and had some nice venison steaks, and then the ranchero and his i!cd us with a few intcicsting ac counts of the treatment they h.i the hands of their country- . and, when the lady said that the soldiers had insulted her by offc: lute her chast. thought that the depravity of th something to be deplored, or their stomachs of unbounded strength, for Lewey stated that there was not enough money in all California to t- him to do such a thing, which is sufficient proof that the senora plain, and smclied of garlic. We were not disturbed during the night, except by the yelping of coy otes, and the usual terrific a" as we were accustom, both nuisanc- to have a fair quantity of sleep, and were ready for ; . and on our u t o clock, the host and wife requesting us to call and see them if we ever traveled that way again. is a beautiful morning, cool and crisp, and the heavy dew of the : freshened th< filled the air : :me. Our hearts and spirits were light as we galloped alo illeys, or walked our horses slowly up the steep mountains, keeping to tl \ in some places we h id to pick < ? were on the ul, and it was not until late in the afternoon that we stood on the Lewey and I. last hill that overlooked Santa i the white mission church, the bells of which were clun^ al service for the pious. There, in front of the town, was the long, sandy beach, with the surf breaking white upon the shore, where we had landed so many times, got ducked so often, and passed so main on board the ship Admittance, only at that period we did not know th. were enjoying life, but thought -worked. place seemed like a home to us, it looked so familiar, calm and content un der the warm afternoon sun. Just inside the kelp was anchored a large ship, and we imagined it to be the Sterling, a Boston vessel, after hides, ti the American Hag at the peak, in defiance of the Mexicans and the was supposed to be raging at the time, only Santa li.ui.Mra had not any bloodshed thus far, and the people were not holding meetings, and ad vising every one to go to the scene of strife, and die like heroes for I country. The male portion of the inhabitants at that time onlv want.. be let alone, and allowed to sleep and eat their meals in p For an hour we sat there on the summit ol that bill, an at the town and the ocean, and enjoyed the prospect before t: beyond us, to the north, was Ranche ! Lewey .s face glowed as he suddenly remembered the < and some of his young love seemed to revive as he pointed to.vard place, and said, r is vare ve vill see de girls. Tomorrow ve vill clasp clem in our arms, and de next day ve vill talk ober vedder it is best to . remain t .>n, mon ami," and we descended the hill, and ; .rrl the town, people staring at us, and wondering who we were, and whether we were Mexicans or foreigners. \Ve knew every public man and h vn, but did not fc;l like call- :r acquaintances and requesting hospitality, so concluded that i l up at some greaser s place, and pa pendant of every one. We supposed the r would be at our course, ard d< .ve imagined that Our "explanations ; event any h:r ! thus break u;) t ,i,ip that ; reside, we did not really think the above-named p.irll.. ;ely to recognize us in case we made them a friend! . ;nd board for a few nights. 6 we were speculating on these things, little thinking Hint mv panion. in the course of a few years, would be escorted ; li. lil /. lie jruest of the best people of Sa ; resent* ,e French nation as the t a man-of -->ee i brown study, as thoug!. des ;<, but Mr. II. F. ! our for- iiit supercargo, and som< -^co. him quite hard, but he did not reo ..- to him, and even then it was some time before he could realize that the t-,vo browned, sun-burned boys were the same pa: Admittance for three years. To be sure our costumes were a 1 . and in some places ragged, and we would not have p.. leros of the first class, cr been considered gotW ornaments for a th. x>m, but our hearts and principles wu - could have been made a study of humanity under all sorts of guises, m boys come from ? " asked the astonished supercargo, as as he could realize who we were. ,1m all about our discharge, and travel by land from San Diego, ami the object of our journey, and when we alluded to the expected wed ding the gentleman smiled. 11, of all the fools I ever met you two boys are the greatest," was the .id remark, and we did not take offence as we had got accustomed to kind of talk, and considered it complimentary to be men of our words. :,now that the country is turned upside down by the war be tween Mexico and the I* " Mr. Teschemacher continued. M the harbor. Tomorrow I will get you berths on board of her. and in a short time you can return home.* " Thank VOM, but we are not anxious to ship I said, ale down, and be residents of the country, raise cattle, and get rich like other people." "What nonst-; < the response. "You do not know the danger .my monc : a cent. t blessed, untruthful Lcwey s response, and the nked at me as he s; >aid the supercargo, putting his hand in his pocket, and pulling out t\vo Mexican dollars. " Take thesf, and tomorrow I will see about on the Sterlir place to sleep at most any of these houses. I have no do . the coin, s not traveling beggars jist yet. Ye : u though as if re rm* nit." inson, whom we had met many times at Santa Bar bara," the ^ * a ^ ^^^ii^Sx^S^ T " U h d T CVe : * ee these > un S "" before, .Mr. Robinson ? M, Tesc emacher asked, as the former gentleman took a good scjuare loci "at " Not to my knowledge," was the answer. Who are th -y- ? " Peterson s boys. They were discharged at San Die-o and now want to marry, and grow up with the country ols " was the usual rejoinder, and then Mr. Robinson lathed * as though he had said something funny, but we did not see anvth"n u be merry about. It was rather serious business with us. Wl: do you intend to stop tonight ? " asked the ex-supercargo . find r At this moment Jack, who wanted his supper, and was impatient at the long conference, uttered a doleful bark. ^Xice dog that of yours, boys," Mr. Robinsen said. "Will you sell " No, sir. He is not for sale," was our prompt response ^ you five dollars for him," the gentleman urged, a lar^e .urn considenns that every house in Santa Barbara had from four to tea cu S about the court-yards, *nd yelping at all hours of the nM,t haps he thought our poverty could be relieved in the way of trade " " S th<i CaSeh "Not for five hundred dollars vouldve sell de dog vot has been vid us c and in pleasure, loves all de same vot ve loves, l.im dot has stood by us ven ve vanted friends, and nebber turned his back on us ven an en- emy appeared. He is part of us, and in good fortune or in bad if ve ha i or a crust, poor little Jack .kalUharc it vid Ui| and recdve dfi ] /. 23 ,f ve is starv < de kind of b- mno^l. for money, nor i - nd * nantl take for de am. mile ..no, a ..no.Uk ,ned speech, and! ,; that he.: freed t "How about the ho:. d the , , ney are mce ani,,, : will buy th,-m if you h.ive the power to set - mustang are o U em ">. andllnorable a. where, f" can offer will purchase then, Th -g are the on j in California, and those - long as we have the power to them," a, ,en to specul., the temper of the boy. UK, bad encountered, lad, who would no, sell they owned, a nc, ^er* money had its purchasing power a: .flficials. ,tice the adobe ho.: -s pointed out to us, b.r another where , ..the dour homw, had seen man. >"" we had laughed an : when he brought hides to the beach for the rich ranche owners to see us, anj off ve us some supper and feed of barlev for our horses, an I :or the ni s ht, all for a n e had mo ney enough to pay, if not wo ome to ev intimated that we could find a few spue dollars, and .hen piquetted our horf, fed them, had the usual supper, -tortilla, and an < aiier it was unished strolled abou, I *5* where I saw his young and handsome daughter sitting on the vcr her residenc- ying some notes on ing on the wall of the court-vard, near where I had eaten my fir.t dmner Santa Uarbara, and listened to her performance for more than an .he never noticed me, probably supposing that I wa, a ranchero vi, the town, ami attracted by the music, as there were a do: present as well a, we altra twilight, beins in Mrxi. I . our or three pipes of tobacco while waitir h.t the moon came up, and its s.lvery wealth -n, on t! who were close to the -.led "< >" don and famil > and wo1 " Lewey a- ! : Mr ^ ""*< *. <* * then, -dtoid ., fearful,, B, and to be morti6ed in the presenc beaut ful woman is re. of a bo j " rno indwe,haped our won Ch, and, because I lt and reflec:ivc . L, ^ sad expression, an,i at last turned to me-, an.l ask, you still spoons on de gal?" just as though I was : n "^ heard playing on the guitar, and I, L-art went out 01 ,ts way to meet am! .ympathize with me in my l,,ne- inc 3 ! lllim/ the 1Vench Lo >- *** "^es you love her more den you docs he put out his hand in a beseeching half-timid manner, and th.re, rbara, with the full moon shining down upon our *"* t the quietnet. of our proceedings, Ch other s eves, and then, without a . i>ed our walk, and presently sat down on the damp sand :I at thc white su: ! >nd tumbled on the beach, . 1 mu lly in a language that we could understand, for it told of gales at sea a t jackets, and hard work. While we s-.t there the Sterlings boal C imc on shore for the captain and through the rollers, and contli r xv.th our own, when we had the same duties to perform The came toward us, but we did n to them, and. I not understan , they paid noi the beach, and blanked the m.isicr for bein- So n from the town. ins appearance at last, and the boat was pulled through the ship, and then we heard the men hoist the -i- up, and over the "e the ringing, clear tones of the bell, as it struck hall past nine . in nautical parlance. trolled back to the town, past the houses where fandan r quarters, saw that our horses were resting quietlv, and on our blankets, and, with saddles for pillow,, went U> I casionally dreaming of fi hf Iyatharp word * DC cesi ;,ken to the fact that he had made a mistake. Then ! to lhink nch or bite a flea, and <, netimea Leu ty and I. snoring like a human be! the . Ou. k ancl honor of stum us in his cour beenslu:; rite her I asurc aclin S 1J itside of California. : -.-UK-hero 1 the sliri! UUl1 in lhc choic< before, all oi whicti i.e received with an a had uuhi him the f ie. The :r break: umulatcd dirt and dust ilannel .hirt, and at eight o clock -idy for o-.: igio. .v much .shall we pay you for our entertainm host, but tli - = ok his h. -^ ^ ^ ^ il] - r, You are welcome," and then added, in a wh : because she thinks I danced wit!. desire to make her a present I shall have no o: j 10 keep peace in the family." :nan a four-real piece, and she Iti sternness, and she even asked us to come a: sit when we were disposed, a request that : seconded. ly down the main street to the beach, and took one more :he calm, beautiful bay, and the roaring surf. A boat was on :c from ti. ;. t.iking off hides, the men up to their .:n at that season of the year, and we could hear t! 10 unusual the same in the s.ine strong expletives. rs he.ird U "He of the rm at, Lewey and I. " Vou bloody greasers, we wish you had to do this job. Then you would grin out of the other side of your mouths." "Gently on the oaths, shiprnite," I remarked in a quiet tone. " We did that ki:; r for most three years, and had our share ot surf and dui " Who in the bloody thunder are you anyhow ? " the man asked, i did not recollect our faces, although he had seen us often on boa: mittance when the Sterling rirst came on the coast. 9 Our Mexican costumes had so changed our appearance th..- .es would not have recognized us very readily. Besides, a littU down had began to appear on our upper lips, and we were very particular to cultivate it for all that it was worth, as it made us look a little more man, ly, relieving us of the green, boyish appearance we had assumed for SG many years. ::i the shore party were attracted by the conversation, I thou only right that the sailor should have an answer, so said, in a dignified tone, ! m," pointing to Lewey, "is the governor of the State, while I am only the commander of the army, and have the title of gen It is a blanked lie," roared the old salt. " You are two bloody beach combers, and run away from some whale ship. I can tell by the cut of voui We thought it was not worth while to continue the conversation as we ". getting the worst of it. The man had not come far from the truth, the sailor s remark, we turned from the hard sand of tiie t beach, and struck the trail that led to the ranche, our route being on and rear the seashore the whole distance. It was a delightful ride that morning, for the ocean was on our left, and the e of mountains on our right, and a gentle breeze from the northwest ruffled the surface of the water, cool and bracing. >\v- er had laid the dust, and revived the drooping grass and flowers. There was no mud to splash through, as would have been the case in the c. part of the wet season, when water sometimes falls in torrents for several r We were seemingly all impatience to see the girls for whose sakcs we had made such sacrifices, and \vondered how tlvy would receive us, if Joy or coldness. Vet we dreaded to reach the goal of our hopes, and soon after parsing Point Arena let ou- horses walk for half an hour, each of us Lfa /. his own When Lewey looked up, and s.. vas . e, the lad laughed. - 1 clink dc same ding dit you does. Ve has been fools, and novs go on and be I still iove Anita," I sighed. Oat is not so, and you kr. .1$ the candid rema vas .aballero grand you vould not . look in some udder quarter, vare you vould not ashamed be. Dat know I qui But vc has pledged our vord, and a I- ix-nchmasi ncbber go back on dat ntbber. His honor .e." when you made love to Florencia at the lonely rancht, remarked. Veil, dat vas von exception," was the candid reply. " 1 lose my head dmr, but now de honor of a Frenchman all come back, am! his vord and his vow- for a moment, and continued, tl I vish dat dey had uttered been nebber, and if de gi ried cry hall not I." Perhaps he expressed my sentiments in a measure, for il bcr ;d that we had not seen the objects of our affection f. months, and a boy s love is not supposed to last forever \\ i the one he thinks so beautiful. After a while we loped along, and by near the gulch led to the ranche, where we had landed so mam :hc surf, cd our horses up the ravine to the house where tlu ters resided, and with whom Lewey and I had walt/.ed one afterno v the old days came back to us as we recognized familiar heart was beating so strongly that I couki ; felt nei and weak, so much so that I dismo the you house, and asked for a drink of water. of the senoritas were at home, and readily com\n quest. Then they politely asked us to partake of some fruit, ar.d s peon for it when we did not decline the offer. I fon 1 travelers, and tried to make our rest agreeable. The . not recognize us until we made ourselves known, and then expressed aston- -.here we were, as they sir - had arrived home Ion: ren if the matter had been considered for a moment by young ladies who had no special interest in us or our I We -did not inform the girls that we werr on a matrimonial crmnd, as , in hit usual cartful raajmer, thou^Ut that it WM just as well not t*, u Lewey and L .:iing to make an impression on his suscepti ble IK- he huid that it \\u :) have an anchor to the \vindv, .ing, I suppose, that it >t find Anita and Engracu all we desired. \ve could repudiate them, and fail back upon the sisters, in the hope that they might be induced to smile on us. but they were far alxv- is us in rank and fortune, and could look higher in every respect for a matri. il market. did not offer to leave the house of the pretty sisters until we had controlled our agitation. Then we bade farewell to the senorit&s, mounted our horses, and went to the well-remembered adobe hut where Anita and ..-ia resided. With flushed faces and beating hearts we dismounted and approached the door, which stood wide open, with a fire in front of the premises, and an olia simmering on the coals, showing that dinner was nearly ready. The noise we made attracted attention, and an old woman came to the door, and looked at us in wonderment and surprise. u Engracia," Lewey asked. "Where is she?" and to have judged by the lad s face one would have thought that on his question hung afpatter of life and death. ;ta," I said. " Tell me where she is, and that she is well." Still the old woman looked at us, and did not answer a word. A feeling possession of our minds. The girls were dead or ill, we the woman asked at last. > you not recollect us ? We are the boys who used to give you bread and tobacco. The same ones who made love to your daughters, and presented them with stockings, money, and other things," we both cried rly. The old woman advanced toward us in a hurried manner, and a look of peculiar determination on her face. Ah, she recognized us at last, was all ready to give us a kind, mother-in-law embrace, and call down blessings and prayers for happiness on our heads, and we were willing to fall upon our knees, and receive the orisons that were to ascend to heaven in our behalf. "M< -d Lewey, with a sob, " for such we must now call you, speak to us of those we esteem so much. Let us see them, so that we can ir eyes on their beauty, and tell them that we have never ceased to think, even for a moment, of those we adore, tnd have loved o many An I. 237 : now our reward is to come, and with joyful hearts we will greet your beautiful daughu -d the old woman, in a tone that was intended to be ucs of the devil, what sent you litre to an honest you gone, or there will be trouble." /car aright? Were those peppery remarks directed to had supplied the old woman with pounds and pounds of piloi . who had been encouraged to call at all times, and never .->t our engagements? No, there was some mistake, or else it was all a dream, and we should at lasi awaken from it. and laugh at our f- i$ Kul madre," began Lewey, in a soothing : not recog nize us. Look at us well, and see your future sons-in-law, who will be proud to iabo: relfare," and then the lad added in English. 1 kick her dc h< ij I is spliced. I nebber live vid her near me, no nebber, by ibondos," the old woman remarked, " I know both of you, and have ..iugh. Get you gone from here, or I 11 seal J the life out of your here: is sure as I have a patron saint." , dis beats me," my French friend said. " 1 vould rudder face a mountain lion dan dat dreadful voman at any dime. Is dis de veddin feast :ed vich ve are? " I could only, look on, and wonder what had changed the sentiments of the we come all the way from San Diego to listen to such abuse ? >e called thieve* and vagabonds ? To be grossly insulted by an old hag, eaten our bread, and smoked our tobacco, and glad enough to get putting our love to a severe test, but one thing I was resolved upon. Never should that old woman live in the house with me and mine. 1 had heard enough of her tongue to last a life time, and what could I ex pect if she was always near me ? ..it shall we do?" I asked Lewey, who was inclined t .!, like the boy on the burning deck from whence all had fled. "1 vill nebber run from a voman," he answered. "A French) i fight, but he nebber runs, no ntbber," and as he spoke the used an earthen jar frt-m the fire, and the way that lad wa backward to fpt out of her reach was suggestive of a panic if she had but pursued. n t be afraid of her, Lewey," I said. " She ia harmless." Lewey and / I uttered the \vji\is the old la ;y snatched up a burning about to hurl it at my .ien Jack thought that he and show what he could do as a peacen \ feared some desperate assault was about to be made on his best and mo>t loved As the senora raised the burning fagot, having dropped the vessel of hot water, it being too cumbersome to use with facility, Jack supposed t! attack was to commence in earnest. He uttered a short, savage bri went for her bare eet and ankles, and perhr.ps a 1 he must have nipped the flesh, as the woman uttered a scream like : an enraged mountain lion. Then she gave a jump in the air, and \sl: came down lost her balance and sat on the olia that was preparing: ! ner. It was warm and liquid, and the soup must have burned her, : clapped her hands to the after part of her thin and nearly the only garment she wore, and said some things that should not have been uttered by a woman who had prospective sons-in-law within hearing. Her yells brought to the scene some of the neighbors, who ciimc t< pathize and console her, and, as the people seemed : blame, Lewey motioned to our horses, so we moun >dc swiftly not caring where as long as we were clear of that woman and her dreadful words and imprecations. When we were out of sight of the home of our beloved girls we halted, and looked at each other in wonderment. Le .vey. " ebery von has said ve vo^ 1 now vot does dink you on dc subject? " a question hard to answer, for we did not know what we should do, or where we should go for even a night s lodging or a late dinner. Our love affairs wore a decidedly gloomy look, and what was to be our next move was a most important question, and one not easily answered. We had suffered and endured privations for the sake * dark-eyed girls, and now we were thrown aside as useless lumber. But we had one satisfaction, we felt as though our hearts were not quite broken even if we were jilted. CHAPTER VIII. A MUTUAL AGRKKMENT. AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE. THE RANCH <>, AND A IICTED M ISETO ALL. nON ANTONIO SANCHOS PUTS IN AN AI PMAK ANCE. A STRUG- FOR LII- K. A 1 .. ON Ti: :;. A . A LADY S GRATITUDE. A NEW PRCK. ro EMC MY French friend s question was an important one, and I took some time to answer it. We iiad not been received in a very hospitable manner, it was true, by the mother of the young girls we had hoped to marry, and our flight from the scene of her home was more like a panic than an orderly retreat. \Ve had seen the old lady, and heard her in tones we could not fail to understand, but had obtained no glimpse of the daughters, I :ey approved of such conduct on the part of their par- e:.t. \Ve !M i not found plain sailing thus far, and what to do next was a question I could not answer, but did say in a frank manner. . we have madt fools of ourselves. No., what shall wtdo I tells you," he answertd. " Vc vill go back to de pretty sister nakcs love to dem. n Ah, what a boy he was for resources. Always rc:v me plan to make life happy, and never casting a thought lo the disagrceabk could turn from one girl to another without a sigh of regret for the tf his projects, or a thought of the vows he ha 1 uttered. The pro^os- tion lie advanced was a tc.nj-tin^ one, and I should no: hesitated to embrace it, except that my colder, northern blooti t the plan was not a feasible one, for I doubted if the young would be ready to listen to the ardent protestations of two penniless young Lewey and I. men, wander is the old l -man had called us in her blind can ve do?" my friend asked, after I had refused to listen to his advice. * We can return to Santa Barbara, and ship on board the Sterling or some other vessel," I said. the candid reply. I does no more vork afore de mast unless I is starvin*. Somethin vill turn up for us. You see if speal truth do not I." as he finished his indignant protest, a ranchero hove in sight, lop. aloi: - th - lt ltd toward the mountains. The Mexican drew up when he saw two strangers, seated on horseback, as if undecided where to and what to do, passed the usual salutations, and touched his sombrero. " Buenos clias, senors," he said. " What can I do for you ? " He was a young fellow, not more than twenty years of age, and his face ;emed familiar. We were confident that we had seen him before, but where was the question. All at once I recollected the boy who had es- J us to a fandango at San Luis Obispo, when we had been sent on shore to watch some hides at the Cave, while one-half of the number was stolen during our absence at the dance. " Do you not remember us ? " 1 asked , as soon as I was assured of the (act that we had met before. Xo, senors, I think not," was his answer. iien refilled to his mind the night at the Cave, and the fandango, the youn/ fellow s face showed that he was pleased at seeing his old At the same time I always suspected that he had a share in the purloined queros, or at least knew where they went, and who took them. But we were willing to forgive him, as we needed friends, and hoped we had found one in the person of the ranchero, whose name, he told us Alberto. * What are you doing here ? " the young fellow asked. You are r around the country like gallant Mexican caballeros while I supposed vou were on board of your ship." 1 We came here to be married," Lewey said. " but the girls we wei wed have disappeared! and their mother gave us such a warm reception that we were forced to cut and run for it." When we i->M him the name of the girls his dark face aiu! eyes were lighted up with merriment. Ballon V *\ \\\ whole bones, for the the rant: ersare Q -ice as I rode past poisoned the mother s mind against you, for she would m. rls to the devil for the sake of getting them off c them for fear of such a mother-in-law, as she would comm.md :he hoi. erl ul news to us, for men do not want \\ .ire . ambitious mothers, anxious tor a good match he woman had offered to pitch at us somctl. mor, .in a spouse, and we thought she must be prejudiced aga .- hunters, in search of heiresses, although the onate pa: .ollars, house and all, and we could comm.mu Q that sum in ready mo:. \\ me," the young ranchero said, after the gravity of our situation h.ul to him. " I have recently obtained a ran c.ittie. It is only a mile or two from here. I have an O u i n : in to cook, so you will not starve. Remain as long as you please, i are abundant, and once in a while a bear is seen. Come with me, and we will have lots of fun. There is a fandango near me once a week, and you will ;irls at some of them, I am sure." unexpected offer, and we readily accepted it, because there was nothing better to do. So we thanked the young fellow, and rode : ill details of our adventures on the route from ntioned that we had encountered and killed Apaches id admiration knew no bounds. He thought class heroes, and deserved to be immortalized and made saints, for he had heard the most wonderful stories of the savage and cunning warriors, and then. > white man could stand before them. Then tli - ichero gave us a full history of himself left a tortune of five hundr^i y an uncle, and with a hundred r. which he had saved, bou-ht a ranch?, and a few head of cattle. His haci enda consisted of five ! acres of good valley land, and he c as much more as he desired for the asking. Lewey looked at me. winked. Here, he th l^d so ! : and de sire -termined to enter into partncrsh. mid tak Secome cattle raisers in I Jut there was time enough to talk of such matters after we had seen the ranche, the stock, and 5: commodations. NViih the Mexican s kno . .J our busineis tar Lewey and /. thought success would be an assured thing. We could hunt and fish, rtdt and play, and do but little work, except at the season for rounding in and branding. This was the life for us, and one we had depicted many limes. If fortune crowned our efforts, in a few years \ve could become grandees of the country, men whom captains and supercargoes would look up to and re- spect for their wealth. We found Alberto s adobe house not much in the way of prctention, yet it had two rooms and an out-building, where the usual stock of odds and ends had accumulated, old saddles, hides, fleas, barley, tallow in quero bags, and a hammock for the Indian woman to sleep in. The furniture in the house was composed of two chairs, home made, with strips of hide for seats, a rude bedstead of red wood, a rough table, some cheap prints of va rious saints plastered on the walls, a crucifix, and four dogs, the latter posed to resent Jack s intrusion, and then suddenly left our animal to hi own meditations, when he showed a disposition to lick the Mexican s curs, without waiting for the formality of an introduction. Don Alberto welcomed u> to his home with all the grace and airs of a grandee. Ke made us at ease, helped us piquette our horses where the grass was freshest, stirred up his cook to get dinner, and, after we had dined on an olia that was not so bad as some we had eaten, mounted our horses, and rode over the hacienda, which we found well watered i mountain springs. The cattle looked fat and healthy, re were about fifty horses on the place, which we did not count of much v.ilu there were more than enough for every man, woman, and child in California scattered about the various ranches of the State. We were pleased with all that we saw, and retired that nijjht with the firm intention of buying two-thirds interest in the ranche if we could come to terms with the owner. The next day we took our rifles and went after deer, saw quite a number, so that there was no trouble in securing one for immediate want, and that evening, as we sat around the fire and smoked our pipes and cigarettes, proposed a partnership with our host. He was a little surprised at the thought, as he had not considered such a project possible. We pointed out how we could be of use in many respects, that the st.rk mi-ht he increased, and money made in the course of a f :f there was no disease or drought. We urged him to name a price, and he said that he would think of the matter, and let us know the next But the next day came, and Don Alberto had not made up his mind, like all Mexicans. He wanted more time to think of the project, and desired and /. of some friends. \Vc made no objections to t!. on just as though we were :ead of some red wood, a nice table, chairs cf deers horns, kept .J even gained the - "f the s- Indian cook, r, led, but seemed to be ever A as to free the peons from bondage and the the com, It must not be supposed for a moment that we informed the fact of our having some gold on our persons, enou in the ranche. -1 acquainted with : [0 any such thing. The fact would have been noised abroad, spread 1th to mouth, and SOITK- :ight have found our our sides, and the belts of gold gone, never to return, or either, for that mat: .ve simply said that a foreigner at Santa Barbara would 1 all the n . ,pcr time arrived, and that j as good as any, for it left the impression that we were without i. id so escaped the avaricious attentions of the ladrones, .ul considered . iwful plunder. In our distant retreat we heard no word of the war, or 1, gressin;, . It was a rare thing for any one to come near us, ar. venture 3 in Ux -che Refugio, for fear the ] would a -am -ivc us a piece of her mind. The girls sen- supposed they had forgotten us, and turned their attention to men in their \vn class in life. \ a week after our arrival a neighboring ranchero rode up one . have a fandango at his house, and wanted I Alberto and his guests to come over and enjoy the f e lots of pretty -iris, and nice dancers, and no end of ossible t meet Anita and Engracia there, s I were so much disappointed in the conduct of the we not care whether we went or remained at home. isid- ered ih u they had treated us badly, after all our t; ease the eight o clock we started for the house where the place. not more than a mile from our quar moon wa .e concluded to walk the distance instead of ternary in the country. down the trail we noticed a dozen^or twenty mounted men Lewey and /. gallop along the path, and disappear in the chapparel on one side of the road but pa,d no attention to them, as we supposed they were some of he :d guests, and were crossing the country so that they could save time and distance. To be sure Alberto said, The fandango will be a great success, for all the caballeros for mile, in ent ma, be there, to judge by the horsemen who have gone on ahead of them > ] V Can bC? did D0t Stem t0 reco * ni * e *"> of to* but * an * the adobe building where the dance was to be held. It was lucky had left Jack at the house, for there were enough dogs present to have him unhappy every visitor bringing one or more, and they fought and Wned fi ?M, " T 1 ^ and When "en or eight had a roaring, com- bmed fight the ends of reatas were applied to all alike to make them realize 3 one was to come to blows except their masters c entered the house there were twenty men and thirty women and a present. A guitar and harp furnished the music, and already the fan- was going on. We glanced around the place, but did not see the I were so anxious to meet. Every one received us pleasantly, and many a bright eye was cast toward us, in hope that we would ask for a looked on for a few minutes, and then, finding the room warm, d tne a.r uncomfortable, went outside, and, as we did so, saw some horse^ .en moving away to the nght and left, in the shadow of the trees as igb to gain the rear of the house undetected. We wondered, but paid no attention to the matter, for just then a <oft was laid on my arm, and a tweet voice spoke my name. I turned, and here before me stood Anita and Engracia, looking more lovelv than we had ever seen them. Lewey held out his arms, and pronounced the name of the girl he had ssed to love so deeply, and with a bound she was enclosed in them tender kisses were rained down on her face and neck, and he was call r all the little angels he could think of in English, French, and Span- sh, a jumble of everything, for he could not speak fast enough to satisfy his hungry heart. Will you let my sister be devoured, while I stand here idle?" asked Anita, for the girls sudden appearance had deprived me of motion and speech, and I could only look at her in wonder, and imagine I I ftaeaming. Uut her tender words recalled me to myself. I put an arm around her .J /. ere . . y little d "U know that we were IK- :y softly. a:, although you must have ;o see you? " I said in a reproachful tone. " Do not upbraul u.-. " If you but knew how much we red on your account you wo;; >scd the lips that were so no a, and g lai. i the French lad to see if h- .ilarly inclined, and it is U8 eless | > : jay the slightest attention to me 01 in invai: . and had a long con ,:id not s, ,.iin, you a ^ le to support wives, or ta ..rse than all, . denounced a , and a curse and excomuuion were threatened us - I did not blame the padre. ie \\eliare ol i arm . re on tin- probable you would never liv i untain top. been . > I could not just cli mother k n i told n the prem ! think she di ; reception very Lewey and /. lid not dare to speak to you, and say that we were near and true," rl continued, "but it was very painful to hear you called all man. ner of hard names, and when mother fell into the pot containing the olia you did not iaugh, did you, dear ? " " Xo, love, but we desired to." :. she says that you did, and that made her more angry than any. Mother has a sharp tongue and a bad one, so you can imagine -it we had to endure after you were gone." ; Can you describe the man who came to your house and warned your mother and the priest against us ? " I asked. " Yes, I think that I can. He was an evil-looking person, tall and thin, on his right hand was a vivid scar. I remember it well, for when he smiled he rubbed it with his left fingers. His frown was more agreeable than a smile. I hated him the moment I saw him, for his presence was evil. I had no difficulty in recognizing the portrait. It was that of Don Ante* > Sanchos, whom we supposed we had got rid of forever. But it seemed not. He had laid a little trap on the mountains, and it fell through, and one of his gang had got badly bitten by a ball from my rifle, while The rest fled at the approach of the cavalry. Sanchos had sought to destroy us by an easy method, but for fear of some miscarriage of his plans had hurried on to Ranche Refugio, and warned the mother and the priest of our com : oisoned their minds, and thus defeated a happy reunion. . as soon as the girl had concluded her story, "the mat who "visited your mother is our most determined enemy. He has perse cutedus several times during the last few months, but we have thus far de He now takes a mean revenge by seeking to separate us. DC, think we could change your mother s will by calling on her and ex -ing our honorable intentions in regard to yourselves ? " red the girl quite promptly. " She hates, and would not hesitate to scald you if thtre was hot water on the fire at the time you appeared." > -red as I im.v-ined *m h a woman for a mother-in-law. I thought Iovcd :cr , ht did not like hot water, so resolved to give the old : \ and not c-oss her hawse if I could prevent it. " If I should see the priest, Anita, do you think he would listen to me?" er head, as she nestled still closer to me, and put up her lips for some more kisses. a though she was hungry for them. and L " He says that you are a cursed heretic," she whispered, "and, oh, I wish you were not." " But my friend Lewey is a Catholic," I remarked. The priest can to - no objection to .. he says that the Frenchman is worse than the Yankee, because while the latter has no particular religion the former pretends to believ< the saint*, yet never calls upon them, goes not to confession, and eats meat Fridays like a sinner. Is he as bad as all that ? " Now here was an excellent chance to follow the example of the world and blast the reputation of a friend, but I did nothing of the kind, for al- ih 0l was far from being a pious young man he was not as bad a* some people would have believed him to be. .. M . its meat on Friday because he does not keep the run of the days. He has not confessed for the simple reason that priests arc scarce, and time is too precious for him to hunt then, be is .11 be surprised at his goodness." " I hope I shall," she sighed. "If you had only half < should be I did not feel complimented, and was about to declare that 1 was a modd when the faint blast of a trumpet was heard in the woods at the rear se, and then a dozen horsemen : icm- . js, and seemed to hold a conference. I thought it si; : the rancheros should act in such a mysterious manner, but supposed it v. method they had of enjoying themselves, and surprising t friends. The dance was going on in full force, and no one pail any atten- to the bugle call, eve a and Lewey not noticing it, but it J;t have been were so occupied liuch more interesting than the g >f horsemen. ft whispered, "you must become a I you do I n if I consent, my dear, the priest will not bless our union," I /e .it shall we do in that t nent she dropped her head, and appeared to think of the mat- ter, then looked up with love and confidence I eyes and blushing face. father will not me as I . sanction," she cried, and put h-.r arms .i">und my neck, and tear* fell from her eyes aa she thought of t:, :nific.ince of h v " Do you iniend it, Ani : knew that it meant ostracim . id I. .1 her church and home, from relatives and friends, a moral death for one and all f< .can all that I a the firm reply. -Take me when you will, and let us hope ti, its will pardon us, and the good : . mst ly when he sees that we are linn in our lov a denouement that 1 had not expected in so sudden a manner I liked the girl and was willing to marry her, but I did not wish to su, to unjust remarks and suspicions, or cause her a moment s un: hesitated, and considered what I should do, but my then interrupted by Lewey exclaiming in a tone of triumph, -Thorn, old boy, love has conquered at last, as it alvays vill ven urged by firmness and sincerity. tid she come to me vill vuiout de siiv of de holy fadder. Thus is my long and steady devotion revarded To have heard his rapturous exclamations one would have supposed he iose constancy had never been questioned, or whose thoughts cmained true to the one object of his adoration. re I could answer the young man there was another faint blast from a bu-le, this time in front of the building, and a trumpet in the rear of us repeated the note. Then we saw horsemen closing in around the house, and by the moonlight we judged there were twenty or more caballeios near us. i and Engracia caught the sounds, looked up, and then exclaimed hastily, lie house, in the name of the saints. Oh, what is there in store for us at the present time ? " A lively fandango was going on, and we could see the perform the sounds of the guitar and har -ie was outside cept our o-,vn party. The dogs uttered some unmelodious sounds in re- se to the trumpets, but as they were always yelping no one paid any lion to them. The \ ,od us into the house, and before we asked for an we could hear the military command of, it. Let no one pass. Shoot all who attempt to esr:r The words \verc uttcrc n the dancers I card is, while the musicians fingers no red in one corner of the n.i n to give us the us . An Lewey and I. y our sides, and seemed calm in It at their sex. i the clank of sabres, and the clinking of c;i - were got ready for execution, and in a minute more :i. and it needed no second glance to recognize tv uul his brother Carlos, while tiie third lexical nlry, dressed in uniform, and rather a good-;, Y. We imagined that we had seen him b.fute, at Mu m exhibition before the elite of the town, no one attempt to escape," cried the elder Sanchos. " The d id the man who crosses the threshold without consent will The women uttered shrill screams, and the men looked at each other in 1 felt for the long knives in their leggings an Sanchos noticed the movement, and said, The ranchero wh- cuchiilo, and attempts to use it, dies like a ur hands quiet. We come here in the name of the i The Mexican officer leaned on his sabre, and looked on. He i: or appear to appreciate the part he was playing. heard all over the room, and i* seemed . regarded with favor by the rancheros. . we arc not enganchados," Don Antonio said. " We are not crimps, us, !>ut Mexicans, loyal to our country and State- and anxious .re. We have the warrant of General Castro for the enrollment oi men for military duty, and we now call for volunteers. M<>mer clanger. The heretic Fremont, and his band of robbers, is on the w.v irramento River to the town of our devotion. lie must be tured. To do this we need brave men. No others . nroll the names of all who wish to serve the State. Let each ,:d who desires to volunteer." ne moved. They did not see the fun of leaving tl, fighting for a State government that paid no mon <anchos. "Who s; or of beinj the premier volunteer? What, no one comes In a few nv all select those I want, and when I name a man he f v>tion. an : be gained in O essc 1 with the sround:-. I ared. Ti; of tht g on. 250 Lewey and 1. se young men will volunteer?" Don Sanchos aske, full upon us, and his smile was not sweet. I kno.v th e a life of happiness and ease as husbands of the girls \\hose they hold, but let them think how much more pleasant it will be fu: prospects when they return to this place all covered with glory and honor. Shall I have the happiness of taking your names, muchachos ? " and the fellow gave us a look that did not betoken a friendly feeling. ," answered Lewey, "we have no desire to fight against the 1 States. \Ve shall remain here." " I think not. You will go with us," was the stern reply. " Do you dare to force a Frenchman and an American into your army? " Lewey asked, forgetting that we had registered. : to take any one who has signed a matriculador. You are sub- 1 Mexico, having thrown off your allegiance to France and the United States. You were allowed a month s notice before be in. the army. That month lias nearly passed. Tonight you go with us, and tomorrow you will be on the way to Monterey. You have baffled m or twice, but now my time has come. I coaxed the mother of let them visit this fandango, for I knew you were near here, and would probably attend. * Fools, did you think that I was asleep, or had f<v the indignities heaped upon me? There was only one tiling I that was you might be induced to ship on board of some vessel as you have been advised to do. Then I might have lost you and my reveng . love drove you here. I had prepared the way for your arrival. i ception was a warm one, was it not ? I should like t >ed it. You gringo d>gs, my hour of triumph has arrived. Every one in this room might escape, but you I shall hold on " You will beiieve us," Engracia cried, as she clung to Lewe hand in this plot. We did not know that you were to i>e IK were surprised when our madre told us we might venture to the j This is the man who visited our mother, and poisoned her mir. priest. To him are we indebted for all of our rr.is: s that has befallen us. Spy of the devil, we hope you will :ne day for your crimes." ss if complimented. If we had been armed we might him, but our \ re at the rancl r will on the dark-faced scoundrel. "Shame on a government that employs such men," cried a voice, but the other rancheros present were cowed, and did not dare to express their Lewcy and f. anted to escape military duty if possible regardless of the cc more, will you sign for service?" demanded Sanchos. . we 11 sec you blanked first," shouted Lewey, and took a step to- our persecutor, Engracia clinging to him. The pimp and spy raised one of his hands as a signal, and through the open door Hew a reata. It encircled the French lad s head and arms, and in an instant he was prostrate on the floor, struggling and powerless. oh, the profusion of words he uttered in his native tongue, Spanish, and * enough to shock the sensibilities of an old salt, had he been present to have heard them. I broke from the embrace of Anita, who strove to hold me back, and rushed to my friend s assistance, and as I did so I heard a number of voices shout. " Quedo," or " take care," but paid no attention to them. I saw that Lewey was a prisoner, and knew that I should do what I could to release him, or >:KI:C Irs fate. Before I could gain his side another lariat flew through the air, dropped over my head, and I was jerked to the floor, a prisoner, pinioned so secure ly that I could not move my arms, although my feet were free, and I kicked at Sanchos shins, and did him some damage, I hope, for he stooped down and rubbed them, and blanked me in choice Spanish for the pain I caused him. Anita and Engracia knelt by our sides, and tried to tear the reatas from our persons, but they made no progress in the undertak Sanchos smiled at the girls for their devotion. The Mexican milita: tleman lighted a cigarette, and looked as though rather amused at the sight before him. something novel, to say the least, or perhaps reminded : tho method of impressing the Indians when wanted for some drudgery, such as clearing the roads, or pulling guns through the mud. ten to me/ said Sanchos. as soon as the confusion had subsided. At sospechosos I can doom you to an instant death. I h. ower. But I for my own purposes, to serve against the United States. That shall complete my revenge, and benefit Mexico at the same time. Will you do s< nked first," was our ready answer. " Do your black-faced son of a sea-c. He r. to know that we had refused his offer. He motioned with hi hand, and a greaser entered the room, bearing a re- Lewey and /. ata made from the tails and manes of horses. It was rough and strong. A Knot was formed, and thrown over my neck. Another Mexu forward with a similar rope, and placed it around my fi lead s windpipe, and then the blood of the French lad showed its fiery IK " Ladrones and perros," he said, "do you know that this rope feels un comfortable? That a woman s arm is to be preferred to a reata? Unbind my limbs and I will agree to fight any three of you greasers all at once, or first one and then the other." He spoke in Spanish so that all could understand him. The Mexican officer smiled, and lighted a fresh cigarette. He was taking matters coolly, at all events. * Tighten the ropes," said Sanchos, and, by Jove, they did, and the feel- .ts not comfortable, for the rough reatas cut into our flesh, and breath ing became difficult. Anita and Engracia were on their knees beside us, uttering the most doleful of cries, and wringing their hands. \Vill you sign ? " shouted Sanchos, watching the strain of the reatas. \Ve were nearly insensible, and made a movement of assent. " Loosen the ropes," was the order, and we felt them taken from our necks. We were some minutes in recovering our respiration, and then Lewey said in English, " Country is all veil enough, I s pose, but I is too young to die vid many sins on my h-ad. and some day ve skall get a crack at .:ul, on, von t ve make him jump if ve does. Ve vill sign, and don t you be a; Ve skall not hurt de Americans by all de tightin dat ve does. You governed In me in dis ding, and ve comes out all right. Besides, vot kirrd of husbands vould two cold dead mens make? No girls have us vould. Dey like live husbands, and blame them not I. Yes, ve vill sign anyding dat dey vants us to, and I vish I vas on board de old ship vonce more." you satisfied ? " asked Sanchos, as soon as we were able to -look around. are satisfied that you can strangle us. What more c: want . ir.anded. ;:;itures to this paper. I know that you can wiite. Sign," and he ordered our arms to be released, and thrust a pen into our h.r >p to read the whole document. We saw lli .in en rollment in the s?rvice of the State of California for the space of five years, sooner di -charged, subject to all th- t military discipline, lough for us. We .<! the instant we had done I Lewty and /. stepped forward, and told us to hold up our right hand*. :ig to do but comply. He mumbled over some words, and then -we vue oui.iicrs of Mexico, and the next instant Anita and Kngraci*. .ir the fools apart," yelled Don Antonio. "The Mexican soldier hat other business beside love-making." started to comply with the order. Then the Mexican officer ^.ibre in his hand. i the lovers alone," he said. "It is but a ihort time they will have for such trifling. Th.y surely can enjoy themselves while they have the chance." t I order them to be separated," Sanrhos thundered, "and my word here." t quite," was the answer. " The men are now soldiers of Mexico, .1 obey me, not you. Your power ceased when they passed from civil life to that of a military career. Xow the men are under :. Interfere with them at your peril." Don Sanchos turned on the young officer as if to assault him, but the i raised his sabre, and it would have fallen on the head of the .:ulrel if he had advanced a step. " I shall report you to General Castro," Sanchos muttered. " He will see >u are punished for daring to defy me." .it yourself in that respect. I know my duty and you d<> . inchador, or pimp, like you," and the young fellow showed the contempt that he felt for the man who had caused him such dis able duty. Then he turned to us, and said, izc both of you young men. I was in Monterey the night you gave the exhibit iblo, how much I did laugh. I was told tl were matriculadors, and liable to serve in the army. Had I known all I have remained away, and let you enjoy the company of the girls red of them. Don Sanchos seems to have some spite against :o defeat it, and set him at defiance, is to go with me. i the army, and you shall serve in my company. I promise you kind treatr \.trk. Had you not signed that con- foundo r 1 i let you go free. But it is too late. must make the best of it, and be faithful to Mexico. Long life to the re- ifusion to its enemies." No one took up the cry and repeated it. The cuj>uin said that his name was Fernando, and that he wai endeavoring to fill up hif comp.v; Leivey and L should repair to Monterey as soon as possible to meet an expected a. by Fremont, his trappers and Indians. " I know you have been sailors," the captain said, while Sanchos stood glowering at us, " for I have seen you on ship board many le on the coast. You can ride quite fairly, but before you have been in : ry a year you will sit your horses like real ranchcros. I noticed you in Santa Barbara the other day. You were well mounted, and looked like brave young fell iws. I hope you will prove so. Serve the-State faithfully, and when the war is over come here and marry the girls, and with them you can receive a ^rant of land that it will take you all day to ride o . in we marry before we are forced to march ? " I demanded. "No. I want no new bridegrooms in my company. All thoughts of love must be thrown aside until the war is over." The girls uttered a loud, wailing cry as they heard the command, and saw that their anticipated happiness was to be postponed to some indefinite period. " I knows lots of girls in Monterey," Lewey whispered. " It von : bad as it seems. As soldiers of Mexico dey vill smile on us much more den eber." No misfortune dampened that boy s courage or anticipations. I: always bokin i to something bright and pleasant, an 1 did not pro pose to die with a broken heart, if he could help it. The girls would not have :c-d had they understood my friend s comments on the situa tion, Ira. \\Q spoke in English, so they were ignorant of his meat:: " It is useless to keep up that howling," the captain remarked, r.s the girls their cries to take breath, and then began agai: s and do your spooning there. We have some lerioui wort to do here yet." " Arc you not afraid to trust us so far away from your presence ? " I " No, for the place is surrounded by my men, and any attempt to < would be disastrous to you. Give me your word that you will report here tomorrow morning, with your horses and equipments, and you may sec the I home, ar. og farewell of them." okc-1 at IV. n Sanchos and his brother Carlos, and the derstood the meaning of the glances. "You need not fear the enganchadors, the offi-cr sai.l, in tone. " I shall keep them with me. The person who dares t > against a regular Mexican soldier would have but a few days to live. Do you promi.- s senor, we promise," was our ready answer, for we saw that Don Antonio did not approve of the project, and \ve wanted to annoy him. Sergeant, pass these men and the girls outside of the line. Let them go where they please, and see that they are not annoyed," was the captain s command, but just as we were leaving the room our friend Alberto rushed ird. i will release me, senor captain ? " he cried. " To serve in the army ruin me. My cattle would go astray and my ranche overrun during fence. Please let me return to my home, and I will donate twenty > for the use of the government." o proposl-.i i) >n Sanchos cried. "As the agent of have the po-.ver to gmnt a consideration. You c .erto left the room with us, and, confound him, he did Ot, take a hint, but i the \\ru home with us and the like a born idiot while I, \V< . . m to return to his ranche, ami that we would join >ur, but he sai 1th*: our safety prompted the youn_ but finally concluded to let him live, then kissed the girls a sad farewell, and !iem, promising to retur as possible. is is the end of all our hopes and ambitio as we retraced our steps toward the ranche. " It is the sacll received." "Don t you be cast down," my friend remarked. " De U.j vill knock dc Mexicans higher dan a kite in a leetle vi! much fi^htin to do, and ven it is all ober den ve vill 1 I sees much fun in de life of a sojer. And, artor all. it is no: man to tie himself clown vcn he is \ : not seen much <>: S pose ve should meet some von ve liked better dan d- late ? By gar, dat vould be bad for us. Ail is for de 1 here comes de c. Let us step into de cha vait for em to pass, for dey might make* a t i!e wrong parties." lodged out of the road, hid in the .nted forty horsemen, and eight impressed rancher : .taring doleful complaints because they had no moncj or personal bribe Don Sanchos and his brother T ami /. After the cavalcade had passed we resumed our course, and soon arrived at the ranci.e. We did not feel like sleeping with the prospect before us, so made a fire, and prepared a pot of coffee, and then sat and smoked for an hour or more, not too well pleased with our evening s entertainment, ;>ough we had been to a randan-.,, ue had danced to very discordant music vith speculations on the futun to sleep, and when we a voke the In ,i.ia woman had prepared a n! Q ] lonor of our departure. \Ve 1 n.ught in our horses, rubbed t ; e al l preparations for going to the rendezvous a -reed u ; for us, and regretted that we must part, but was too cape from military dunes to shed many tears over , Q his mustangs in the corral, selected the poorest lot that he . ; W;ls all ready to drive them to the h >use where the far. \ t as soon I) re pa red to . -1 not k to do about I in t]ie way if we took him, and might break his heart should I leave him behind. The poor animal sat and looked at us while the discussion was going on, and i belijve that he understood ever re said, for all at once he threw back his head, and uttered poured out of his eyes like those of a human being ., . ,. t i some great disaster. ve vill take him/ Lewey cried. "Jack can look artcr himself as veil as ve can. He knows more dan a greater, I dink," and the dog showed his appreciation of the words by attempting to k t . s . At nine o clock we slung our rifles over our shoulders. -i>y to the cook, mounted our horses, and helped Alberto drivel) , the Iczvous. We found Captain Fernando and his : , j ve md the military gentleman said with a 1 nigh that Don Sancl,- .\ occupied at Ranche Refugio he could not i to watch our departure. We knew that the scoundrel was determined the girls should not see us again, and was the means of their being housed until \vc v. many miles on our course. Our captain was not a bad-hearted fellow, and I have no doubt would willingly have consented to our disch.r the evil influ ence of the spy at head-quart int C il us porals on the spot, our badge of office being a strip of yellow cotton cloth pinned on the left arm of our jackets. I think we were thus promoted on account of our carrying riiles and pistols^ which appeared to produce a pro- ind impression on the minds of our companions, for . took oven the commander of the company .- : 11 a lot of gringos before the wa: hose I, who could handle a knife but not a i; iVe had not the slightest knowledge ol -novemer- :d any on the match. The captain was to ride in were lered not to crowd too closely on him. Then came the t 1 the rest of us as we pleased. Leweyand I took our places somewhere ir the rear of the horsemen, so that Jack could see : that did not care if there were fifty perros -ther fhe impressed men were mounted on Alberto s 1 ; . rs of ;ret at the idea of leaving places where they had been living idle lives for " > In fact, 1 c other people I more than ourselves that we ac: tcned up, and when the ode to the rear, to see that his troop in were all t 1 looked warlike, my friend asked, Senor Capitan, how much per month is the pay of a first-class ca. n like myself ? " dollars and found, was the answer. re sh.ill we find the eight dollars when it /\vey . \\ sabe," was the answer an ! ;he shoulders, are kind, but they will not : iave take your pay in land. cheap, and there is en^ patron saint, I believe that I best compan\ -," and we commenced our journey to Monterey, and all t! nche Refugio, i uld have waved their handkerchiefs for our benefit if they had owne< . .lid not, a shake of then .s the next be" , the > pretty sisters came ne.ir us, and Lewey raised : rero, and med to feel a littl - .at he was a i . the you iled or. him, and called him a .kcil at me as : I should come back here a hofficer vou ol dem jprls vould be 25 8 Lewey and I. glad to jump at me as a husband, and it vould n t be a bad match. You take von and I de udder." " Adelante, muy presto," was the command, and we rode away from the fascinating faces, and in a little while my friend had forgotten the pretty sisters, and was thinking of other matters, probably where he should find senoritas capable of holding his attention for a week at least. We followed the trail that led to San Luis Obispo, but when the after noon s sun was hot we halted near a ranche, unsaddled and piquetted our horses, and then there were orders to capture a bullock, and kill it. The owner of the property came toward us, and called the men all the vile names he could think of, but our captain only laughed at him, and smoked cigar ettes in his face. The ranchero went over a hill at a dashing pace as if to summon help, and Lewey and I walked toward the adobe house <o see if there were any terrified females who needed assurances of protection from the officers of the Mexican army. We supposed there were ladies at home, but they had shut and bolted the doors, and we could not get a view of them. They seemed to fear us, I judged from appearances, and I did not wonder at it. While searching one of the out buildings we came across a barrel that attracted our attention. We knocked out the bung, smelled of the contents, and it seemed to us to be aguardiente. We inserted a straw, and tasted. It was rum, and no mistake, and old at that. We saw a fine chance for re freshing and cheering our comrades. One of them was near us, seeking what he could steal and cany away. We pointed to the barrel, and men tioned the word aguardiente. It was enough. In an instant the greaser was on his knees, and filling himself with the fiery liquor. We left him at his work, and strolled back to the camp, and there encountered a little rat- eyed sergeant, the only man who knew anything of military duty in the command, aside from the captain. "Sergeant," I said, "one of our men is filling himself with rum at the house. There is a barrel of it, old and good." "Holy Virgin, do you mean it?" the old fellow asked, and made a straight course for the house. We hinted the same information to the rest of the men, and in ten min utes there was no one in camp but the captain and ourselves. The former was smoking cigarettes, as usual, and reclining under a tree, his hcs-i on a saddle. " Cabo de esquadra? " asked our commander, " where have all the men gone ? " * . uv;7 /. in," Lewey answered, "I think they have f>und some- worth stealing at the house. Th .ined that e careies^ - let thctn load down the horses," and then the \oun^ fellow to,.k i. and :nust have slept half an IH>IT when he v,. ..<nse that proved the mm was oper.ui . mi soldiers issued from the building, some rullii^ the barrel, and othti ng to stop it> :hal more drink coul 1 be obtained. At one moment half a dozen of the greasers piled up on top of each other, and the person \\ i the km, . . to give place to another man, perhaps a trifle . drunk thai th< the captain, "what is the meaning of all this, though the gallant heroes were drunk," 1 " 1 think you are right," our superior said. " Keep the dogs ana ober \\\.- will boot and saddle." .,fthe-,\K ne toward us with a calabash of diente in his hand. I), ink to the success of Mexico, and confusion to her enemk II handing the liquor to us, stepped on Jack s tail. The j n ,i Bonded by a grab at the seat of tb , and out a me -loth, such as it was, while the man uttered so . burled around rapidly, tumbled to the ground, spilling the vent to sleep. this debauch," Captain Fernando remarked, as he sabre. "Take your rirk-s, and come ..is a job we did not care f the you pluck, we could do no less than follow him, and see how he would subdue the r. .lers. The captain marched up to the barrel, pusher were . so the rum uill run out. We have had drinking Tdicntc alone, 1 one ferocieus Mexican s.. ! ours 10 one sh. us of it." The young officer rained his sabre, and dealt the speaker a blow with th$ 2 Co Lfwey and I. flat ot the bla-Ic, full on his . Ic was one of the rantl. who night before, ; .. . . 1 ;:ot quite comprehend military duty i a superior. The greu^.-r v.as hot-tempered and quick. Like a flash he drew his long, sharp knife, and made a bound for the captain. He was drunk, but not so intoxicated as to prevent his hand being firm. The blow would have struck the yo-.ing officer full upon the breast, if we had not noted the act, and raised the butt of our rifles. With a crash we let the breach of our guns fall upon the Mexican s arm, and it fell to his side, and the cuchillo dropped to the gr und. officer remarked in a cool, unconcerned manner, as he noticed our act. " I won t forget this, be assured." The -idlers appeared frightened at what had occurred, while the would-be assassin moaned with pain. Some of the men began to move Away, as tho ;<h they had partaken of all the fun they desired. "Sergeant," said the captain, lighting a cigarette, "find a reata, and bring it . He spoke to the fierce little Mexican, the only person who seemed to know much about military duties, except his superior and one or two OtlK The fellow with the broken arm turned as if to move away. It," thundered the captain. "Remain as you were. Move a step, and I 11 cut you down like a The lie sergeant came toward us with a lariat, saluted, and a ers. and the dog s neck, and hang him to the nearest tree,* the capt.i The sergeant coolly proceeded to do the bidding, but when the criminal led and resisted, the captain turned to f <1 myself. "Corporals, aid the sergeant," he said, "in hanging that scoundrel." "Captain," we both exclaimed, "we do not relish that kind of work. ;se detail some one else to do it ? A hangman s position is one no* to "Oh, yes. Xo need of making c\ i [ere. you two, come and help his man," speaking to some of his reg-. The ; >n the wretch, who no U, stri: rcata around his neck, and dragged him to a tree. one monstrale, even if all -i 1 -:, or under the influence of f the men were asleep, and knew not what was going on. The captain lighted a fresh cigarette, and appeared the most unconcerned man in the camp. " Captain," I said, * is there no mercy f >r the greaser ? " " Xo. Why do you ask ? was the short answer. " To see if there was any hope of p;r Ion, His crime is great, but his punishment is tcrr; "He dies," was all the answer the young fellow made, and turned his . onus, returned to the tree and resumed his horizontal position, car- L , no more for the life of his countryman than that of a sick dog, if quite as much. 44 Le J, as we avoided looking at the scene of the hanging, * the next time we find a barrel of aguardiente we will spill the contents on the ground. Our joke has not been a success thus f;ir." And the French lad crossed himself, like a good Catholic, and muttered a prayer for the dead, as, when he ventured to steal a look at the tree, dang- ling from a limb was the lifeless body of the greaser. I do not know if the execution was an example of Mexican military se verity, and legal or illegal. At any rate, the young officer took upon him self the responsibility of hanging a man for an attempted murder. There was no court-martial held, and no one asked for an explanation at Monte rey, when we arrived there. This may have been Mexican law, but, if it was, some changes were needed, it seemed to me at the time. At four o clock the trumpets sounded to saddle, and the men, with aching heads, were awakened, kicked and cuffed into motion, and at last got in line for inspection. The body of the dead still dangled from the tree, no orders _; been issued to cut it down. uliers," said the young captain, " you have witnessed a slight exam- >f punishment for military insubordination. Let it be a warning to you in the future. The good and brave will be rewarded. The cowardly pun ished. Corporals Thorn and Lewey are promoted to the rank of serg. for saving my life. Hereafter they will ride near me, at the head of the troop, as my body-guard. Long live Mexico and the republic. Death to her enenr .vhispcred Lr \I1 dings is for de best, artei all. Ve keeps on, and soon ve skall be ginerals, and den vot von k; bat ve can m.irry ( ic pretty sisters." "And fo Engracia?" I asked, in tones of reproach. ve should hab to look higher. Our stations in life vo o .liff - - vould be fools to gib our hands unless dar vas some ill /. :^in to us ;; to me, for I knows . is a little more firm in his love affairs, and not so worldly in hopes and aspirations. The -jfficient to set him m.ike him forget all past s. The _; in which lie was constant was his : ,. That never wavered or ^rew c.-ld, and he w, . lint wit. h and hope he would improve -Hence. 1C there was nv in the lad s s .. The sis- i had mo esirable things iu a when the i made of our : : ikm, not that the men were envious, for i the manner in which we uit because their heads were dazed by the debauch ol the dr. heeled in i i>: fours, and went on our way. to the u he, it is probable, and the indii; of the owner. ! ,ive been surp; -i he returned to see what f fruit one of his re, for we lelt the Mexican where he had ^cd. amped at ig, and went thiou town like a flock of hungry wolves. Nothing was : m the hands of rs. Chickens and pi^s were iercvcr found, and for a : I seemed to catch the infec r all whom we encountered. 1 h id house, where I tl could :id went in. Lewey had more promising in another di -.t?" ilcnnnd- lerly lady. I .nc, I could tell that by the first glance at her face and gray liair. : answered. " I have traveled .ill ni ; it, and am fanr and off catne my hat, and I made a low bo\v to the only inmate of the room. 11 Ar .e demanded in a haughty tone. "You do not speak like one." "I am not a Mexican, but at present a soldier. nn? t I rrn to say. We have marched all ni^ht, and ti If I d pray let me rel . .ieh I seek I.i other place. at she stopped me w ire. Lewey and I. 1 be served with the best the house moment four of our men opened the door of the casa, and dashed into the room. They had seen my horse in the corral, and sup- i that 1 had struck a bonanza in the shape of feed, looked the indignation she felt. .sc, you unmannerly ruffians," she said to the new- com . , to the devil," was the curt answer of the cavalrymen. to eat, and mean to pillage the house." , is moment a door opened, and a pretty little woman entered, lead- in- a child bv the hand. She tool t the fear she fel:. tret,. the little one was whimpering, and cling-. motl ski: r the first kiss," cried one of my men, and he i the prize, and threw his arms around her. She uttered a shrill st; of U; her child repeated the cry, and covered its face with tl mother s dress. - I ..... t only a dozen warm ones," a second man said, and he 1 bound for a share of the kisses. I clubbed my rifle, and let it fall upon the fellow s head, -the on< had first proposed the 1 ime. He dropped to the floor half stunned, and then I hit the second scoundrel a blow that laid him Ue-1 to the door. e two uninjured greasers hesitated for a moment, and their eyes entered the room, in search of me, and to that he had found lushings of feed. he asked. men have insulted the red. Insult de ladies? No Frenchman stand by and see dat. Ve vil! love ilcm - ill die for dem, but. - -H "suit vhi] to strike a blow. Get out of dis, you black-heartc Vt know enough a kiss to vin by fair means, kcrl the two greasers from the roon time the injurrd I : the " fcet an(1 sltmk out c they dk! not dare .-commissioned officers, and therefore had a 1. AC owe you thanks for why Lewey and /. done. Your good action shall not go unrewarded. My husband, General Castro, shall be informed of this at an early d te too will be pleased to compliment you." This was a surprise to us, but we could only bow, and bless our stars that we had bshavcd in a decent manner, and not like ruffians. But there was greater astonishment yet in store for us. "This caballero appears to have forgotten me," said the pretty little mother, as soon as she had quieted her child, and, as she came forward, placed a small hand in mine. " I fear that I am not so attractive as before my marriage, if a boy forgets me thus quickly. She was the nice little girl who one day had given me a kiss at Monterey, just out of fun and a spirit of mischief, and the lady who had promised me a dozen of the same kind at the time she supposed the town was attacked by wild Indians, and then refused to complete the bargain, saying that I was a fool not to take them when I had a chance. I never thought that she treated me well, on that account, but now that she stood before me, a pret ty little wife, with a child by her side, I forgave all, and would have kissed her willingly, if I supposed she cared aboir. it. "How handsome you arc/ I remarked, wanting to say something light and graceful, that would prove acceptable, and not toe abrupt, kind of a delicate compliment. " Do you think so ? " she asked, and smiled. " I am certain that I never saw any one so beautiful as you," was my re sponse, and I heard Lewey groan, as though he doubted the truth of the statement. i always was a good boy, and I now think you a nice young man," the little wife exclaimed, and then Lewey acted as though he was sick. I : to kick him he was so rude. " You may take one kiss for this ing s kindness," the pretty little woman said, and put up her lips. "It sick makes me to see so much slobbcrin goin on," my friend re marked with a groan. He wanted a chance himself, but the mother knew goodness when she saw it, and kept the French lad at a distance. The Senora Castro did not even frown as I bent down and saluted the .d small mouth held up for the kiss. I had just finished the liity when the door opened, and in walked our captain, 1 .iahed at seeing his two sergeants present, and talking to . very free yd couiU-ous manner. he said, " what the devil are you doing here?" and then, to oui , and /. surprise, the pretty little wife threw herself into : jd the mes, whi; I. cwcy so discontent wanted to kick Jack, but thought better of it, and only muttered about ! when so many good things wore thrown away on the unc:< lied the little wife, as soon ai "how surp: ::ted I am to see you. I did not know yo near me. I supposed you were still at Santa IJarba,- -r your oomp company is nearly full, and I am on my way to Moutert uul march tonight," the cap: .e of the saints go sooner," Senora Castro exclaime think, from w .iat I have seen, that your men must be the worst in C nia. The;. insulted us already." Captain Fernando demanded, and put his hand on his sabre, and g*ve us a look that did not speak well for our future Four ot your men attempted to kiss me," the younj; were other v. ;t," and here she sobbed, but did not sa; about the salute she had given me. ; blanked l.ulrones," howled the captain, and would have fully his sabre, but the young wife held him so tightly in her arms that he could not move until an explanation had been made. the elderly lady remarked. 4> You misjudge these caballcros. They are gentlemen, if they are common soldiers. To them are we indebted for protection. They drove off the bad laO would have assaulted us, and at some risk to their own li . >. yes," the young wife cried eagerly, "your men would hive kissed and maltreated me had not these young gentlemen knocked two of them the others out of the house. Tl: heroes, : The young officer s face lost its flush of anger. He rclea old of the ? out his hand for us to shake, and forgive him. me," he said. " I should have known that the men who saved my lit >t insult unprotected ladies. Thi- the Senora Coste the Sen of the govern comnundcr-in-chief of the California army, and my unc!-," and, as he intro- c ladies bowed, and we assured them that we were delighted tc make their acquaintance, as is customary in polite society, and it does noi matter if you do uttti .t the time the assertion is made. It ii only a white lie. 18 Leivey a the young captain sa d, " these young men were impressed into \\ the machinations of that scoundrel, Don Antonio Sane!. a uncle will keep in the pay of the : and engan- . o ^atricv: i them for military duty, as we had a right to. The : .ere in : J to ina rv two .^irls at Ranchc K laudable desire, Lotii ladies remarked, s a mean act to take them away from those they admire. We are sure they would ma : and faithful husbands/ "Yes, senoras, we should, be assured of that," the unblushing Lew :, and from that moment my French friend g\ r with the ladies. v, I have a plan that requires your help, my good aunt," the captain said. "I owe the young men .a debt of gratitude U U yourself. a letter to th-~ geivjr;il. detailing all the circumstances of this morn- outrage. 1 dint gluwin^ly the service the >ve rendered you : ster Costello. The army is no place for them. i -eh-re the; been in it a month they will be murdered by their companions, just as sure . are now alive. To save them I shall not even a.sk t] of the ladrones who assailed you, for, if the scoundrels were pointed out and properly punished, their comrades would avenge the act on the first dark night, by the thrust of a knife. I could let them desert, and uclcome, but Sanchos would set his hounds on their trail, run them do.vn, and then shoot them. There would be a volley, and two d The best plan is for General Castro to grant a formal discharge from the armv, with a promise on the lads part not to serve against California or Mexico, flow would this suit you, senors?" the young captain asked, turning to U.S. ressed my joy at the prospect of a speedy release, but Lewey did not respond so readily. The fact of it was the French lad had really begun to like the life we were leading. There was excitement and n< tivity in it. and some fun. He could order the greasers about, and began to feel all the de of one who is in authority, and can show his power. I .t sidtft) h.id not our men stolen everything that they could lay their hands on. or else de stroyed what they could not carry away ? There is s fiscinating ilatory life after all, especially when you have no property of own, so that retaliation can be made by the sufferers, and this was our case. I answer the question. K-t me jvsk one, capitan," Ltwey said. t L \\ us to become generals or in the l the ready answer. \Vc have more more generals than companies. i hope to rise Id be a bar to your ) be mustered out. It seems as though fate, or the saints, was against us all the time. i . .ried nor stay in th All doors are closed on nighed, and then the b.dies caused an excellent for us, and the captain did not hesitate to invite us to sit at :n. being got ready Lewcy and I went in o i!. Mis of the estate, swore at them in true trooper style, to . were men not to be ;..ide oin our horses, and the one the captain rode, them plenty of wrr iiile this s where the rest of oui ;. or . heat a \ a slirill : an \\oin. < .\inst her Mill, >:b!e for . - of the greasers, we did not a tlie head the disorderly ones, for our li . .vorth all tiie Mexicans in the country. v.nild roam near the house, where the capt.r nt in a different direction, and off the i the shade of a tiee, and went to J .-r our persons. We slept untu were tin s of our trumpets, calling in ; glers, .i to ^et ready to march. \\ c .nketis, and strapping them, when C Uo the house. 14 Sergeants," he s.i i two here to tomorrow o my sister and aunt. >n?e- v have i , Luis Obispo, and prefer the former and life an 1 this place. Their husbands have sent for them. >! think you c.in look after their fffl ri ie in A rough i by two uules, the same that brought ^ a sw wcks since. A peon will Lewey and /. as postilion, and you must protect the ladies from insults, if any arc The senoras prefer you to their own countrymen, which is a V compliment." that we should like the job very much, and I thought of the pleasant little chats I could have with the young wife while on the I " Then that is settled. To tell you the truth, I fear some of my men may not like broken heads from gringos. Now here is a paper requiring all the people on your route to grant you protection, shelter, and assistance, under pains and penalties of martial law. Do not hurry over the country, for it is rough, and be careful in descending the mountains, and crossing the riv. ers and streams. See that no harm happens to the senoras or the muclu- cho. On this duty will depend, in a measure, your discharge. And now adios. I must get my ladrones in line, and march." He sprang into the saddle, threw a kiss to his sister and aunt, and dashed down to the plaza, where the men were mustering to the shrill blasts of the trumpets, and the fierce carambas of the orderly sergeant. All the cavalry men reported for duty, and we stood near the road, and saw the heroes depart, and, as they filed by, they hurled questions at our heads as to our absence from the ranks, and swore that there was not a thing left in all San Luis Obispo worth stealing. \Vc said that we were ordered on a scouting expedition over the moun tains, to look after Fremont and his men, and then the greasers crossed themselves, and closed up their ranks, as if fearful of an attack. The ruffians, whose heads I had injured in the morning, did not look pleased at the thought of our being left behind, and I imagined that I read murder in their eyes as they passed us. We had a delightful evening at the house. Senora Costello and her aunt d on guitars and sang for us, just as though we were on an equality. As soon as they learned we had some education, could read and write, : attended schools in our own countries, they dropped all reserve, and a like friends more than distinguished ladies of rank, with rich fat!, husbands. That night we slept in the house, with our rifles l.eside a tk on the watch, for we feared some of the bold soldier b< return in iine.xpe -t-vi minner, and not only put us out of the way but ini-irc.- the la<" . n:>tl)ir.;r happened to disturb us, and early in the morning \vo mom our horses, and rode to the house where we had d 4 h Anita.. Engracia the night we were sent on shore to watch hides at the CV Then we pushed on, went to the landing, and the stream of fresh water, Lewey and I. .opped, and had a most delicious , , plenty of California haul n . the dust and pe: .iccumula: The Cave had not changed. Th surf beat lightly on the shoal shore, I at anchor in the open roadstead. \Ve I.righecl as we imk-s, the dead coyote, and the bear story, and then rode I house, refreshed and clean, even if \v, ; be ill from exposure to .i:id iried to convince them that there was no danger. They a such rude attempts at cleanliness, and, when we stated that our countrywom .ily fond of bathin-j, our M iiands in S] I horror, and llioug require so much washing. ...s breakfast was finished the volante was brought to tlu- our ho- .uid in nice condition for a start, the helped i-ito tlie vehicle, with a good supply of provisions for the journey, smiled on me as I covered her feet and child with a > ;ep off the keen morning air, and my face giowe<l .re as the handsome lady said. tl and to you we commit ourselves. Do not disappoint our <! when we arrive at Monterey, if you ai shall be rewarded b !i a prize I would do and dare anything." V.MS my gallant re sponse, and Lewey asked in English, in a sncerii. f> de same has you said dat to ?" just as though accustomed to flatter the fair sex, imitating his free-lo The . hil . . we slung our loaded rifles over our shoulders, \\histlecl to Jack. \s disturbance with a .e to leave until he had worried her a little ourselves into the saddles, and were off, following the trail t! f the mountains, and over which a carriage could journey, if the diivcr was careful, and avoided the rocks and ruts, for the g mtnt 1. >me attention to the road, a chain gang be _ d in clearing it for many years, an 1 yet did not make such marked improvement as one would naturally expect. The morning was so bright, the air so pure and 1 r condition was so changed from the experiences of the da hat we actually felt quite content with our lot, and Lewey hummed a French love song, nted me to join in the chorus, and when I refused **"\ that I was Lewey and I. spoons on some one, and I didn t know what he meant at nrst, until he nodde ->lante, and smiled, while I b ushed, and repudiated the idea. . 1 of the vehicle, the better to observe the best portion of the trail, anil, when the hour of noon arrived, thinking the women were tired, we halted on the borders of a little stream that descended from the ^ted the ladies to dismount, and, while Lewey and the peon : after the animals, turning them loose for feed on the rich L took my fish line, and caught a nice lot of trout, and baked them on some rind while we were eating our dinners, the meal was interrupted by the sudden appearance of four evil-looking rancheros descending the moun tain, and advancing toward us on a lope. CHAPTER IX. A BRI SH WITH LADRONES. A VorXf, LADY S MODE OP EXPR! THANKS. TI! rt MURDER. THE A TRAITi S A BLOW. THE UlLE O.UAKTFKS. A\ EARTHQUAKE, AND A TU- i.VIEW WITH :k>S ARE SNUBBED. A DANGEROUS MISSION To A \ " re eating our dinners of baked trout and coid chicken, and rath- * r >:ale frijoles as an adjunct, the ladies were expressing the pleas ure they derived from the journey, and the happiness they anticipated in I their husbands, when the four horsemen appeared in sight, hav-" t down the mountain side in such a stealthy manner that we should ve noticed them until they were close upon us had not Jack uttered a i, and thus caused us to look up, just as the strangers be- lope their horses toward us. < rones," suddenly exclaimed the peon, and made a backward leap, and landed in some bushes, out of - rancheros did look like thieves, and we were suspicious that they were of that grade of humanity, for the fellows had their long lariats in their for a throw. In a few minutes more we should have been Jed in their coils had not the dog given us warning. The ladies ut- abdued exclamations, and then repeated the first prayer they could think of. -and it sounded in Spanish something like our English version of . " Que quiere usted ? " Lcwey challen ponse, but we doubted their being friends, Lewey and I. for their movements were far from being friendly in that wild, deserted part of the country. p oil," my comrade cried. " Do not advance. We want none of ;ompany." i will like us better after a short acquaintance," the rancheros re- !ed. >; We are poor men, and mean no injury." "In the name of the Virgin do not let the laclroncs harm us," Senora Costello cried, as she clasped her child in her arms, and her face, so beauti- iui and pure, showed the fear she experienced, while Senora Castro, like i e of a warrior, looked the courage she felt, and regarded the new comers with haughty defiance. :.ors," I said, as soon as the little wife had made her ?ppeal, and it was not a vain one, for I resolved to defend her with my life, this ladv is the wife of General Castro, the governor of the State. We desire that she shall not be annoyed. Your presence tioubles her. Will you, like gallant men, retire and no longer give her anxiety ? " The fellows whispered together for a moment, and we thought they would comply with our r .-quest, but instead of galloping off they chew near one of them said, " We are poor men, our ranches have been despoiled by the forces of the government, and we own not a peso. Give us all the money you have, powder, and we will let you pass without further molesta tion. What say you, is : n ? : .e them notlr \ the stern command of the elderly lady. " They would not spare us if you did." e supposed she understood the nature of her countrymen bett we did, her words inspired us to show fight and save those comm : not fear the ladrones if we could keep them at a dis tance, and our necks from the encircling influence of the terrible lariats. If they threw them, and we were caught, death was certain, for they would gallop over the plain, and drag us at their horses heels until life was extinct. " Ladies," I said, "the safest place for you is the volante. Go to it quietly. speedily as p^- .1 leave us to deal with these men. We will not desert y ht to the . senoras arose and obeyed us without a word. As the rnnrhcros .ient, and understood its significance, they prepare- chare; never would have thought of such an act if they had understood the power of rifles. They supposed that we were armed wKh the Mexican musket, t ree fathoms of the point aimed at, soldiers, that -- cen known to fire ai! kill more than fifty men, and wound but a few additi* " Let tu ii tiie fellows wore within fifty fm. . foremost ones, those who were a little the crack of our rifles the men singled out : Veaned forward and clutched their horses manes. They did not seem to rest in the rest of the fight, for their animals, frightcnt the report of the- ^ tlv; plain the mountains, and disa; . the thick chaoparel, the riiic: ver - we ran as f.ist aj- . slicker of the volantc, and threw ourselves flat upon the ground, with a: .led, and it was well that we <!:! so, for two lariats flew through t;. ited on our persons, and, as they touched our hea< ^ed our hands and ied them some distance from us, and so saved our lives by that si: manoeuvre. The rancheros dashed on, baffled but not defeated. They kn tould not have time to re-load our rifles, so supposed that we f to be captured at the next charge. With a light touch of the Iv .hey threw their horses on their haunches, wheeled them like a well-drilled sol- . and once more came tov etermined to ride us down if the larl- . led. " De pistols to dem gib," whispered Lcwey, wli >poke ba Jish when excited. We rolled over, close to the wheels of the volant were praying for our success, drew o : ! not suspect we had on our persons, and, when the Me\ e close upon sired, just as the lariats were thrown. The mi; their course, and thus disconcerted the aim of the men. T of their mark, grazed one of the wheels of the volante, slipped tothegn- and, as the horsemen \- from the otlu- and had t .<*tion of hearin . 1! of pain, and then both mustangs pitched to the gro Vans t with them, one with a broken leg, and the oilier Uet in his shoulder. Lcivey and /. "-!. Ihe advice was too good to be rejected. s "Dueno" cried the two Udies, as thev clapped their h A thousand thanks. Kill the ladrones " H lexican woman has her blood up she d- , i(I for trifles< 1 i ^ CrU f T nC f "" mal memberS f blood, and thew was no mercv in their hearts. . J not feel that way. We had conquered in the fi^M. and ,er, " . , what we had done. We did not propose ta despatch ou nso = tncm get well the best wav they could. Wh.Ie we were Load- and pistols, however, the black. | oon. who had run first s.gn of danger, glided out of th, | wcnt to. e injured men. We did not note his movements , ;, , think. that curiosity alone drew him to the spot. Hi.t S ddealy we heard a tor mercy, and then a sickening crunch, and, on running to the spot saw that Hie cowardly savage had killed both 1 ui: J ^ ground with well-directed blows of his machete. arp and thick. -" we asked, "why did you do thi, l So tl) -;i no Iongcr trmible honesl peoj)K -. ,. a> t , ( i rumj)t ^ ; .av e ^one to the devil who created them." ;he P con - The h. have maltreated us. They missed ti,, , suf . I the murders, <: l.t them cur com, save of con. nit v.-uchsafe, fc, and se. -lysaid as wo ted her to alight from the car: Ltiucy and I. cried Lewey, when he heard the words, "this is cool. Some !, but de ladies beat it all out of sight." "And I," said the little wife "will now reward my gallant preserver with as many kisses as he will take. My life, my honor, my child has he saved. M.iv the saints bless him." I could not refuse the polite invitation, so saluted the fair lady with two .>s, but somehow there was not that vim and sweetness in them that I exp: i Monterey previous to her marriage, or before the time of .J been enacted before our eyes. We look fur gentle; , mercy and forgiveness in women, and when we do not find them masculine admiration does not become an instinct, and so it was in The beautiful woman was before me, but she had shown no toward the vanquished, and I did not think she was so pretty a her the day before, asking for protection from the rude assault soldiers. :e does my share of de kissin come i;. d the t The Senora Castro must have divined the question, for she held out her* .\ ell formed one even if it was a little dark. Yo : :or your bravery on this occasion .nitted . .d." ,ried Lewey, "but I is not 1: pressed hi ry respectfully on t; 1 then he winked ilsh the senor re not hurt, as she could \ A. word he uttered. He l.>o!r<! -,t the thin lips of I wife, but she did not take the h .in-.eil manner for the part we had perform- csh pot of coffee, smoked .i i n to join us, and tl \ere once- lead men and injured horses where tlv s and mountain lions, unless there wer after the remrr * through a beautiful section of the co> . of mountains on our ri^ht hand and the seashore o >:vated position, we co;: .nd deserted, with no sail in si-ht to break the monoto trail \v.*s rugjcl, so \\ of \\M* ailobe walls of a ranche house just as the sun Lewcy and I. the chill air of the coming night swept through the valley, fresh from the ors and si. . f the northern sierras. The owner of L,e ranche, an aged Mexican, and a priest, came out to meet us and in^ke us welcome. Captain Fernando had passed that way the day before, and stated who would follow him, so that there was no sur prise . re drove up. The holy father belonged to the M Carmel, four miles from M was on a tour of confession and chris tening, to marry such as desired to enter the holy iun ;s of rimony. - Welcome, daughters, to such as the house affords," the padre said, as he came forward and assisted the women to alight, while the aged Mexican stood uncovered, out of respect to the rank of the ladies. " We could have wished," the priest continued, "that your reception and entertainment were more regal, but the government troops were here last night, and they did not leave much of any value behind," and here the good man smiled, and glanced at the sister of the captain of the cavalry company, but the Senora Costello did not seem to tnink that any apology \\as needed for the conduct of the men, for she simply said, "Holy father, I suppose soldiers must live the same as priests." "Yes, child, but they need not steal what they can t eat. But God be with 3 ^liters. Enter the house, and supper shall be served immediately." As we were not invited we piquetted our horses, found them a mess of barley, and made preparations for spending the night. As we knew that we should not be permitted to sleep in the house we cleared out a place in the out-building, and then waited for such portion of supper as the ladies mi ^ht be disposed to send us, and I am glad to state, for the honor of the sex, that we were not forgotten, as we had a bountiful supply of frijoles and tortillas, and some coffee, the latter nom- too good, as the cook had not set- . in his haste to serve the distinguished visitors. While we were disposing of the food the priest came toward us, and raised his hands over our heads. We saw what was coming, arose, and stood uncovered before him. ! liers," he said, " the ladies have told me of your bravery. Al though you are t and heretics take an old man s blessing. It new er yet harmed any o- !y father. - I am a Catholic, but not a good one." Here I nodded an assent, and my friead continued, " I do not make love to every pretty face that I see, like some grfngos I Lewey and /. could mention, yet I have not confessed for many months. Will it please you to hear me if you have the time and patienc- ly father," I remarked, " if he makes a full confession you will have no sleep tonight. Better take him by installments. Two or three hours this evening, and the rest early in the morning/ Tl^e good priest did not smile at the words. He simply said, a servant of the church I will give your friend all the time he re quires," and the two walked to a secluded spot, and Lew had a long catalogue of sins to answer for, as he was gone an hour or more, and when he returned said that he was all right for a year at 1 The ladies came out in the court yard and sat for a while, their shoulders covered with scrapes to keep off the heavy dew and cold nijit air. T were very pleasant, and spoke more than once of tiie sc: had ren dered them, and how grateful they felt for our exertions in the;; Then Senora Costello complained of fatigue, and gave me her hand as she bade me a quiet good-night, and a hope that I mi_ We were not disturbed by the cries of the coyote^ ashed long before the ladies were dressed and ready to show themselves. fed our horses, had breakfast, and by eight o clock once more resumed our . and nothing happened of interest until we \ \ the Carmcl Mission, then, while ciimWng a mountain, at a s-. the tr.ii: ;our men stepped from the bush huge in their belts, and pepper-pot revolver! <>n their hips. ats preserve us, 1 the ladies exclaimc 1, " here are more ladrones, and i; . not turn the volante. and if we had it won! use, for the strangers might shoot the mules from not half try. I knew from the dress and appearance of the men th in with anoth : Mexican l.idrones, but : and friend began to u .;>on from his Here we will find better marksmen thin our elves, and before Id fire they would riddle our : l.ullets. Let me deal with these people, for figlr .i they arc Americans I can manage belter with t iors," cried the two ladies, thrusting their heads out of the s the volante, and looking a little alarmed, while Senora C her child close to her breast, "we hope there is no danger to you and " I trust not, la- hut we must hope Re- main c.im and quiet while I go forward lo meet the - them." . k I rode slowly 1" _,. near centre of the trail, their rifles carelessly thrown across the their arm ->n the locks of their . They looked at me with iiiich curiosity as I manifested, and, when I \\M> witnin a the men. .;ioned for me to halt, and I obeyed th ^vere tall, brawny, muscular : :hed hats, and on their feet I ,.i rnocrasius. trimmed with Is and porcupine quills. Their eyes were bright and very alert. ever watchful, as though expecting an enemy to ai>;.< at any moment. SCT a hit! ; .Mexican lingo. Bill." one of the I aid to <e, who was supposed to be the lingu si of th :hus the man who was addressed as Bill took a step foiv.ard, ana . " Buenos clays, saynor ? I lau-licvl as I answered, " I think we had better palaver in English, gentlemen. \Ve shall under- -ach other better. - lilank me, the fellow a n t no greaser," Uill remarked. "Mexicans ak like th Fo, gentlemen, I am an American like yo "Then what is yer doin on here ? fl was then, ,- up ike a squint at yer close to." near the men, and they looked me all ovc; it my Mexican costume. e from, pard ? " one of th ! >e d. "\VilI, jLt tumble off that ere hoss for a minute. \V | -talk L while," a ed the request, as 1 knew it would not :>e the polite commana. on that stun. ., nc of the men sauf, the :necl to be the load-.-r of the p lit my pipe, lighted ll noked with apparent un- concern. The men imitated my example in the pipe line. the leader said. "There in* round here. i I think not. We don t want LfU ty and I. to be took \,\ surpiise nohow, ji.st at this time," and then the man turned to me ind resumed his questioning. Who is ) . stranger ? " he asked. have told you. I am an American, formerly a sailor, but left my ship at the end of the voyage for the purpose of marrying and living in the mentioned the word marrying " all of the men laughed, but in a icd manner, as though they were not accustomed to make any noise -when .on to their mirth. What ship was you on, stranger?" demanded the leader. 1 he Admittance, of Boston, was my prompt answer. . e me a sharp look, and asked, k - Wh.i: ivas the name of the skipper of that ere ship ? " " Captain Peterson." .s the ejaculation. * Now one thing more. That ere ship at Santa Barbara one time, and a party of trappers was aboard of her. ; Now, stranger, what did them ere men do while they was thar ? " first place," I said " they all had a tot of aguardiente, and then 6red at champagne bottles hung from the yard-arm.* ;-rert to a hair," was the complacent expression of the questioner, .s thar, mate, and knowed all about it." i bet, especially the rum part," one of the trappers cried, and a sub dued chuv . around the group. I did not remember the man, but had no doubt he was on board the Ad- mce at the ti-nc. as we were often visited by trappers for the purpose : ." the questioner asked. " What else did we Ldo ? " rrow one of our boats so that you could hunt otter in c captain refused to let you have the gig as he fc Brou he grease "That s gospel truth. Yer was thar, stranger, as sure a* yer arc alive, no make up in that yarn. Yer Yankee fast eno TV well," the leader rem >ome other things ji.st now. \Vhar is yer goin ? and who . atercy. and my shipmate and myself are escort- ladies to that town to join their husbands," was my prompt - Who is the women ? " Lewey and I. * 4 I have told you, ladies." " W<J1, all \vomen is ladies, a n t they ? " t in every case. These are real ladies under our protection, and we mean to see them safely to their homes." "That is all right, stranger," was the gruff reply. We don t object to by any means. What we want to know is this, has yer seen anv- . i soldiers about here ? " 1 that a troop of cavalry was just ahead of us," I answered, for I thought the men would realize the fact as well as ourselves if they I out on a scout. " That s the truth. Now yer know that the United States and Mexico is at war, don t yer ? * the leader asked. " 1 have heard so." Well, it s a fact. Now which side does you take in the figl.- "Can you doubt?" I asked, and the answer seemed to satisfy the man, for he said, " That s all right. Now we wants you to go with us and see the -ii." iiat captain ?" "Fremont. He s not far from here, and might like to question yer on some pints we has neglected to call up." u must excuse me this time," I said. " I hope to see him here after. "Could n t we persuade yer to go?" the leader asked with a smile, a very significant one. " Certainly, for you are in force, and we are weak, but I trust Ami trappers will respect the ladies and their escort." at s the use, Jim ?" the man who had been on board the Admit tance remarked. " The Yank is all right. Let him and the women folks |<x" stof the men nodded an assent. n t no objections. You can travel, and mind yer don t mention hav- in met us on the trail," and the leader motioned for me to continue my journey with the volante and ladies. v.\v," I asked, as I mounted my horse, and prepared to join my iends, "is Captain Fremont encamped near here ?" ver yer mind whether lie is or not," was the short answer. -icn has he under his command ? " I asked. " None of yer business." Lewey and I. " Is he tured to ques 1 -.1 panot ? " fa threw up his i *us manner, and I feared he meant business. M i:ed my hat, und galloped back to the ladies. When I reached ti. ; the trail, but not a single person except our party w.- . .m:s had vanished as suddenly as they appeared, and lei 1 , e direction in which they had gone, yet 1 had no doubt they n lung our movements from the midst of some thicket, and hearing all o( our conversau were the men?" asked Senora Castro, as soo.1 as I was within .istance. :.ic trippers v\ ho were uncertain about visiting Monterey, feari: . ,ie \voul: . ; <em to be held as prisoners. They v.. ..k to their hunting grounds." |S were satisfied with the explanation, and Stnnr.. .\arrn look of thanks from her bright eyes, and make a in . with her lips as though she owed me a kisi. ," Lewcy said in Knglish, as w like pace up the side ot the mountain. "Dem men \.isscout-.. knov. it a tight squeeze to git us by de:n : " 1 had better believe it was. Captain ! : i near here I think, and that means bail luck for th -ome of his scouts, and are keeping a sharp \\. .If I that on . it have hi- ;e, although our conm . Kcmember, Lewey, we know notliing of the o : 1C men. 1 hi -y were only trapper", you recoUfCt** 1 .Mi is the cheery answer, for my French i lay. i to the top of the mountain a TP our view. The mules were so tired we c . .t our luncheon. : further in sight, although at some r i i our feet. The l>:i.h: b!" . .each tl.e white s-.i : lin^ an i u* r>i hiiie-dro^iiing <!.< t, yet happy a; ! set \\\t sand hills oi :ks of th* Lewey and /. Pines, and the dark, sombre trees in their rear. Close by was the Mission Cai y, and affording shelter for but few p; the ; not many cattlo, as the Mexican government had I all that was valuable, and converted them into money for the benefit ol ministradors and other speculators. The ladies were delighted with the view. Even husbands were forgotten . as the senoras sal on a rock and looked off toward the town . There was but one vessel in the roadstead, and that we sup- as the war-like schooner California, Captain Cooper, and I shud- . the fate of our national ships, should any enter the harbor and en- j the tenor in battle, with its crew of kanakas, and old Queen Anne muskets for cannon. We found a spring of sparkling water, but had nothing to eat except a few hard-boiled cg-s. I was about to take my rifle to try and find a deer icing Indian appeared on the scene, with a hind-quarter of venison on his shoulder. IIe : ie California native in feature or color, dress or appearance. He cancel a light rifle in his hand, and showed no fear, as he approached us quite boldly, with a firm step and upright form, and ey fire. ke to him in Spanish, but the Indian shook his head as though he did not understand. I said, and the stranger nodded. " V rtion of your meat ? I asked. hat you want. He l ->n on the stones, and Lewey cut off what we needed he coals. " Who are you ? " I asked, as I gave the man a piece of tobacco in mcnt for th .: :i. " M C ; Indhn," was the proud response. " Who : . ? " " Fremont/ "Where ia he? 11 I asked. should I know?" was the guarded reply. " He here today, tn- I icre he goes ? The wind will not tell the secret. Delaware Indian no talk too much. No good." He rose up and fool .earing in the forest, and that was the last we- saw of him. lebratcd Indian scouts, and followed his commander from the clear across the continent and /. suffering hunger and thirst, danger and almost death for the sake of b-/ on a trail, or hunting expedition. I was not sorry when the Indian disappeared from sight, for I did n t but he might be on the war path. He had been scouting through the C 0u:. i a deer during his wanderings, an. I was now returning to : . ver it was located. The . -- d about the Delaware, and I told them he belonged to the .1 met, and tli. 1, but Lev. ey put a finger to his . drew an imaginary knife around . as though he then: ! after scalps, but I think my frien . -d our plain repast we once more resumed our had to lock the wheels of the volante, for our course was D the steep side of the mountain, and the mules were to slide as well as hold back. I thou % a Costello to my horse and let me lead him, and Lewey made the same proffer to I were wise enough to accept the offer, and, with the child resting in its mother s lap and arms, my gallant mu- i-illy picked hi the mountain, as though proud of the beauty on his . anil rattier liked the change of riders. :eached the base of the mountains in safety, even the suffer- , .-, and then once more the ladies resu:., r places in th and we dashed past the old mission to nvn. e drew near the vi .. card the i raj 1 saw our galhnt companions-in ai ms on the plaza, undergo:: by rich- 1 officers. The scamps did not present a very D line was not as straight as some math. -nonstratioiis. Ca i the head of his corps, and the fierce little sergean: , his pro be damned every one who did not sit his horse act like a cavalryman. Our arrival attracted much attention, f w?.s seen in the streets of Monterey. General Castro sa ;cd the inspection in all haste, and gallopc ! tionate ^ 1 then the husband of the pr forward, and I envied him the kisses he receiv :n to ^ ember those which had been bestowed on me d Captain Fernando left his fiery servant to -rt his men back to t d then exchanged a ; him how boldly we h anked us, and then turned to the general Lcwfy and I. "These are the men I spoke about to your excellency," the young cap- her chain of gratitude by repu!> iadrones uho made an attack on them. Your wife will give you -are." : them no\v," the lady said. "To th< young mon are we inde I . - .md honor. General, yon mi: - thin^ for the.n. D scharge botli from the- army, and let them u-turn and marry uey luve/ Of course Ca>lro Km- hod. \Ve expected he would do so, and \v< . :iat you make, my dear, I shall comply with. 1 v. but just at that moment a familiar Voice was hcuid near us, and, turni- u ionic face oi Don Antonio Sanchos. -sed forward, and listened to the conversation. Then he his oar, just as ue expected he would. your excellency will give me a hearing before you . ." he s.tid. 1 can show \ou goo.! cvi : the ingerous s jspecho.-os, and have been acting as spies for the Aim " cried the fiery Captain Fernando. " You mean tare you come near ladies and gentlemen when they are his right hand, and stiudc Sanchos a ringing blo-.v on the ere that the villain staggered back, and blood flowrd from ;;ist impulse was to put his hand on the hilt of hi- knife. Then he thought better of it, for the young officer said, it a tone of ir cuchillo if you desire to, but the instant you r;r I 11 through your body. General, it is a disgiarr to !. : : Sf [fU< ad of being a benefit he v s >!iie of his doings t- report to you at the first conven- 41 I wUi," L CostrllO, her little hands, "that you i : <r me, O brother mine. I should like it so mnrh if yon would " Hut .tnd the j. _ener- : the re turn of his wife, said that he would^cijjsticc, and ordered the volante to i rut /. move 00 1 | vernors usually resided, near ; oy and I gave our celebrated exhibition of legerde- urtered you and your friend at my si>- .s the carri.ige rolled aw.iy. She will make you ccv ble, and be i protect her, and look after hei some rambling soldier invades ilie premises. other duty for th .1 now listen to me for a moment. K forgotten or forgiven you. He carries a sharo >w to us<. i not fear him :-d, and dare not s .//ke at me. If he did his fate would be no uncertain one. It is people like you who feel hi But go to the house and rest. 1 must look for they are in- . ell as at San Luis < de through the crowde lor there . o hundred .in attack on Captain I-Yeni" i the house of the American ning on the veranda 01 ience, talking with ins half-brother, Capta . the commander of the schoon er Ca . van :n on the coast, and she - ur men and an old musket. 1 I dismounted, went t they were astoni.-hed, for they suppo^ ne. at in heaven s name possessed you to leave your i ^uch a time as this?" a>kcd Mr. Lit kin il to his .it he could hear n ns he pretend . he w.i -We \\ere in l"Vr. and wanted to get m knew what wouM ; Ijoth laughed, an Cooper n. :<: bite at his m limed hand, and kindly said, \v: .\- ire ; ". lolnj ! ere . " Mr. Larkin asked, as soon as he could re- r his composure. \Ve have ; rt of Sen o and Co ; ifugio >ut to be and forced to march or die. \Vc preferred the former/ 1 Lewey"and /. " Good for the Mexicans," Captain Cooper cried. " You will live to bless them some day for doing you a service." " I will soon set you free from the army," the American consul remarked. * Tomorrow I will speak to General Castro on the subject. They have no right to impress an American or a Frenchman. Perhaps I can make the government pay you dam. k% But we arc matriculadors," I said. "The devil you are ! That alters the case. What fools boys do make of themselves. But I 11 get you discharged just the same, or know the reason and the representative of American honor scowled at a greaser sol dier who passed just at that moment, and shouted. "Down with the Americano gringos and their representative," meaning that the warrior wante d to share in the sacking of the consul s house, and steal a few of the dollars he had on the premises. The fellow paid no at tention to us, for he supposed we were Mexicans, being dressed in the national costume. "Just wait a little while, you miserable dog. Mr. Larkin muttered, and then in a whisper, speaking to me, In a few weeks the frigates Congress, Independence, and Cumberland will be in the harbor, and then we will see who can talk the loudest. But keep this to yourself for the present, for it is not generally known that the ships arc on their way to this port." " If this is the case perhaps it would be advisable to move the schooner California to safer quarters," I said, addressing Captain Cooper, tl.i manuer, but the old salt took a ferocious nip at his hand, and declared that he would fight the whole Yankee fleet, and sink it in the bay if it dared to venture near him. ve did not believe the captain was in earnest \\c laughed at him and his threat, and moved off to find the house of Scnora Costello, where we were to be quartered. We knew the place very well. It was a pretentious tdobe building, a little off the main street, yet near the plaza. Attached to the premises was a corral for horses, and a shed for the storing of rubbish, saddles and the Indian servants. I entered the house, and announced to the mistress of the ;>hcc t; were detailed to protect hersHf and family, and she did not seem in the least surprised. In fact. I think the arrangement \va* one she had made with her brother, as she ; lence in us than in Ix.-r countrymen, just at that time, w!, vlcssness prevailed all over the State. Her husband was at the government house, being an officer of some kind, so was not at home to welcome us in proper shape, but as the iady was the :v ey and I. - - ,t did not matter much. She told us what to do. We were to turn our ho: e in the . ould rind some barley in the shed, our 52 e stowe ere to - house, on our own 1 hance, which was quite ties on the food question. The peons looked on in wondering sui . : did not seem disposed to regard us with favor, but Senora Costello told them we were the most wonderful killers of Apache Indians ever known, and then they changed their tone, and seemed disposed to do all they could to keep us in good humor, fearing for their sea! As soon as our ten; fed our horses, and then went in search of some new or clean clot had on were not as fresh . been, having worn them all the way from San without a - nat our trousers were decided- ind a little off color, through dust and >n. issed alon?, and saw Cook sitting in the door of his pulperia, his nose a little redder than. md a general air of dejection seen e the man and his place. He did not recollect us at first, and. he did rcca l our faces, sighed deeply as he thought of flush times when men- in port, and sailors buying aguardiente at a teal a glass, and getting fighting drunk before sum! these are awful times," the old fellow sighed. " There s a crowd of people here in the streets, but not one has a real in 1 They are the poorest lot of greasers ever known in the town. V. could sell a barrel of rum a i :otiv- in and have a drop of somethin for the sake of old .eclined his invitation to drink, as we were not in want of stimulants, . enter the old shanty, close to tlr mark for m.iny .ose familiar with the o We saw a lot of si. >thes piled up on his s:. taken for rum from tr. s* men ar. looked the stock over, found it v. -od order. .t we nee ! >ds. the old fellow would have put on a firtitifv: profit, but, as we did not s; purchasing, he thought a sale could be effected by a little plain talk. 29- Lewey I "Fir i a suit," he said. u I .. ; cheap. There are son . them. cloth aiul nice beli buttons, imitation oi silver. The blue shirt.s came from a man-u: out of the slo . Take two for a -ach. It s less than they cost me in : . whole suit for five dollars. You won t? Well, take it lor four, and not a mcdio -.j-ve." .lie price \v.is lo v \ve bought two complete suits, returned to the found some soap and water, had a good lonned our new garments, feeling all the better for being clean once m.,. acing Senora Costello to utter a lew words of commendation on our changed .ce. husband came home he was profuse in his thanks for the care \*e had taken of his wife, and said th.it the house . which we knew did not mean anything, for we had heard the same thing many tin- . jver, he gave us some supper, and then we : under cover all the evening, as we remembered the warnin , ::iando . us. in the room that was usually reserved for the reception of ; such hasty m !t like it. I do not know what hour of the night I was awakened from a heavy sleep by the movement of the house, which was roll : - pitching like a ship in a light sea, and for a moment thought that I was ;rd the old Admittance. Lewey vra | by my si !e, and in .c tumult. rtcd up, and listened, and then from the plaza heard the 1-nid .he church belis, the yells of people in the streets, as though some thing extraordinary had occurred. lid, Diving my French friend a kick, " there *s a tornado or a new revolution, 1 do not know which, but if we remain "11 I*o ve." "Let her rip," w is the half-awakened replv. and, (urn : himself to sleep fl th- young man wns t : -r : n the .ind th"n far off in the . .nnd ider th.in .-vc-r. as though to iwnk-?n tlu- faithful, 1 them come to the ark of safety if they dcsiicd to live until morning. is I could colic c s pounded on the i the house, a:. udh, .; torremo rcaioto ! " stelio, and made a bound from the room where :ie time being that he \\as a married man and :. will be the death of us. The sain :e in church to pray," and o-, . .r that time of the \ear, and not quite suited for church ser- ! present. up on the floor, and pulled on to die here I 11 cover up my booful legs," an au nent there ssation of the rocking and trembling .., and the cries ceased in the streets. The first shock , I judged, but I could not be sure, for tim. low- building to fall on you every second. If it had . of adobe, and the walls very thick and i ; should have v seconds of the shock. As it was the tiles fell from the ; od to the ground, and the dogs uttered loti.l ho-.\ls, and Jack showed more courage, although the poor brute trembled, and uttered a low whine, as , ized the that more trouble was to come. iie buildi:. ;ust buck! a chunk* en n ::iach. and a strong inclination to vom- Tected,and Lewey, who was similarly afflicted, is vusser dan a glass of old Cook s aguardiente, and a bottle of na- I ml muchach" 1!o moan, \-nly recollected that her hu^ run for . ck. to the 11 where en sleep ng to rise, and in -en do i .iake is raging, and the roof ia likely to fail at any moment. A lamp, wa* burning in her apartment, and from its Lewey and I. feeble flame I could see the look of terror on the handsome face of the young wife, while the boy was sleeping by the side of her bed, and had not even awakened during all of the tumult. " Where is my husband ? " demanded the lady, as soon as she could speak, for terror had for a moment made her dumb. has gone for iuiV,-" 1 aas.vcrcd, wishing to excuse his absence as well as I could, for I did not want to make the man contemptible in such bright eyes as the lady possessed. " It is a lie," she retorted. " He has fled to save his own worthless life, and left me and the child to die." " No, no, not to die," I answered. " I will take you in my arms, and carry you to a place of safety," ignoring the word lie for the time being. Even as I spoke the building rocked wildly, the church bells resumed their clamor, the people in the streets howled in terror, called on the saints and Virgin to save them, and vowed they would lead better lives in the fu ture if the request was complied with. Of course this was forgotten in less than twenty-four hours after all danger was passed, but the scare she that the Mexicans were a deeply religious people in periods of earthquakes and other calamities, and could do more promising in a given time than any men on the face of the earth, except the Spaniai " If stand here you do all de night, and talk and talk, de shanty vill our heads fall on. Grab de voman and get out of dis, and I vill take de boy. But you allers di-.l go for de best dings, and leave me de vusser. S po-^ I take de vife, and you de young von, and see how dat do ? " Lewey could do some hard grumbling when, occasionally, I crossed his path, but I knew his disposition too well to pay marked attention to it. I covered the petite form of the wife with several blankets, raised her in my t as I thought we should be buried in the ruins of the house, .ed out of the door, Lewey near me bearing the still sleeping child, and Jack following at our heels, subdued, and not disposed to fight the meanest cur that was near the building yelping with terror. For a moment I stopped near the corral where our horses were snorting with fear, disposed to leap the walls, and break away for the high lands, they recognized our voices, and came toward us, trembling in every limb, and reeking with perspiration. We petted and soothed them, and, as the earth continued to lous conduct, we did not believe that we could find a sifcr phco ! (siting of our burdens than the open space at the rear of the house, in the corral where the horses were confined. Lewcy and L The streets were full of people, the soldu one moment and plundering the next, or . ..ited that his stock of aguardiente would suffer to some extent, v DO mo -he custom. vazzards tlew, and croaked like ill-omened S pj rr :ce cry of eagles, as if protesting against being disturbed in the night. Cattle weie bellowing and charging thro t .nionship of man for protection, and above the .at bells could be heard the mournful booming of the surf ed on the shore with unusual spitefulness, c ;e sandy beat ; .ngest of all, ahui: >ar can-u to attack any one that crossed i- in or dog. It had come down from the ir. in the hope of finding less of a tumult than fallen trees and r rom the sides of the hills where it made \Ve could have killed the wild beast from where we sto<> no desire to \\ k on such a night, when death threatened us on As soon as our horses were quieted I deposited my fair burden in a cor ner of the con >> her side. .. to protect them from the cool, damp air, and then Senora ae of her well-formed arms around my neck, drew my head .1 kissed me. . not leave me ? " she asked. ill remain by your side until all danger is passed. Do not I think you arc sale here." i>een my husband would you have left me on N as t . I would have remained, and lived or died withy swer, and I meant every word I uttered. She 1 then encircled her boy in her arms, and c .s. 1 hoped she wou! was .uck. Then Lewey returned to the house and secured o fles. >v but the and offer violence to the lady. The peons had fled at I did not return home until long after daylight, and some of them looked and though they had tasted Cook s aguardiente, or some other strong drink. rumblings of the earthquake grew fainter and fainter, and at last em Lewey and f. tirciv ased. We c he priest in the church f- ty of his rlock, and then the Midden blasts of trumpets showed of the soldiers had recovered their senses, and v. Jn their men from pi .. In the course of an hour Senor Costello returned to look after his \vife and child. He did not seem to think that he had been derelict in his duty, but said that he had prayed for the safety of his dear ones, and was glad listened to his prayers, which \\as very kind on their part, all things considered. . Captain Fernando made his sister a visit, and, when he had heard all the particulars of the night, paid Lewey and me a compliment, ar. his brother-in-law u few words of condemnation which he did nut fail to understand. We removed to the house as soon as all danger was passed, and once more the wife rrtun.ed to her bed, and the boy to his crib, the little fellow not even awakening through all the noise and tumult. Squads of infantry were in the streets, with fixed bayonets and loaded muskets, looking for those who did not respond *.- the trumpet s call, and with orders to shoot all who had not ceased pillaging the better cbss of houses. As it was not yet daylight I laid down on my blankets by the side of Lewey in the nope of getting a little sleep, and the last thing I heard was the complaint of my friend, as he said, " 1 is tired of dis son of di:i_ r . I does de hard vork and you gets all de kisses. r, I no stand it much longer," but in the morning the French rgotten his gro-.vling. a: happy and careless as ever. Tii j sun came up warm and clear, with a gentle south wind. The air was n< npregnated with the smell of sulphur, the fumes of which came from t.ie rents in the earth. The cattle were quietly feeding, a: forgotten the perils of the night. The bear had waddled back to his quar- i the mountains, and probably was dreaming of the commotion that had sent him to the village in such a hurry. Cook was sitting on an empty barrel damning all kinds of greasers, high and low, counting up his and calculating how much he would have to water his next stock of rum to make the account good. The soldiers were sleeping off the fatigues of the night, and not until even o clock did the blasts of the trumpets awaken them to activity and a hort drill before breakfast. Householders were taking an account of toclc, and wondering if the articles stolen from their prim: 1 ever he recovered, while the alcalda issued a proclamation recommending a day Lcwty and /. 207 cf fca- escape of the people from death, and, as all danger seii, it met the approval of the church ar.! A bull-fight was proposed, but as no one dared to scour the country in search of a fierce toro, on account of Fremont and his men the plan was given up, and a magnificent cock-tight substituted late in the afternoon, and those who lost their money said that they preferred a:i quake to such wicked sports. About eleven o clock Captain Fernando, in full uniform, came to see us, and stated that General Castio would recc ar us immediately ( regard to our enlistment. When we \\x-ie rradv to go to the government house Senora Costello threw a dark mantilla over her pretty head, and her intention of accompanying us to the pretence o! the general* Her brother remonstrated, but irm. "The young gentlemen," >he said. | :ie last night wlien I was de serted by my husnand. I was in danger, and t!, I by my side. I ateful, and if 1 can do them any good by n: :11 see that kindness is not thrown away on me. I . .1 uncle all the particulars, and he must have a hard heart to refuse m Captain Fernando made no further opposition. We walked acre to the icsidence of the general, the sentry presented arms as his su- gassed him, and crossing a hall entered a room where Ca>tro\\as seated, smoking cigarettes, and dictating despatches to a secre: neral," said Captain Fernando, ** these are the two young men I spoke to you about. They saved the lives of your wife and my sister escorting them from San Luis Obispo to this place. La>t night they de voted themselves to Senora Costello while the earthquake was raging and her husband visiting the church to pray, instead of helping first and pray- . I mild, gentle voice, and a priest en- . )? room. It is seemly at all times, but still I think it is better to return thanks after your wife and child are in a safe place th n tri st them entirely to the saints, for the latter can t look after all during an earthquake. I will e young men for saving so good a daughter as Senora He raised his hands, ar.d we bovved our heads, and when I again ! that the padre was the one I had met at Santa Cruz so many times, and who had let me feast on the strawberry beds of the oH Mission, when a sailor boy on the Admittance. He recognized me at once, and a smilt r hi a calm face as he said, 29$ Ltwey and / * I am glad to see you once more, my son. I did not expect to meet you here. I supposed you were home long since." "Do you know the young man, holy father?" asked Castro. "Oh, yes, and a good boy he is. I will answer fji him," and the padre patted me on the cheek, in his old familiar manner. "Can t you vouch for me also, holy father?" asked Lewey. "I am a Catholic, and my friend here is only a Protestant. According to our c I should be much better than he." " My lad," smiled the good priest, "religion does not stamp a man so that he can pass current as a Christian. But I will take the risk, am! that I think you are no worse than hundreds of others whom I meet in my daily life. The Senora Castro has given me excellent accounts of both of you, and now ray daughter here is fully as enthusiastic in your prai "But that is only faint commendation for me, holy father, 1 remarked Lewey, with his usual impudence. " Let it suffice until we can learn more of your worth which you seem to think is not suspected. Remember, I have not met you as many times as I have your friend, therefore must be a little cautious in my remarks," and just then the general s wife entered the room, and the }> smile that showed he could appreciate a joke as well as the French lad. I placed a chair for the ady near her husband, and then drew back and resumed my position by the side of Lewey, for we were not requested to sit down in the presence of so much dignity, not being on an equality with those present. " We were speaking of these young men,* 1 the padre said, as soon as Senora Castro had taken a seat, and given us a smile of welcome. " Alter all that I have heard I do not see how the general can refuse to grant t a disch ..: 1 they been Mexican soldiers they could not have done more to pro- .-ct the ladies." "They \vere worth a dozen Mexicans when the ladroncs attacked us," re marked the pretty little wife, and her eyes flashed as sin- spoke; but the general : ; ! not like the speech, as he put great faith in his country s soldiery. "The question Is this," the general s wife cried, !n a tone that proved the could make her presence felt when desired, and I noticed that all were hush- d while she was speaking, "are the young men to be discharged from the nrmv or not? " " Certainly, my dear," the general cried, in a tone that showed he wanted to conciliate her. Lewcy and I. to give me a chance to s- inter rupted ? the wife asked imp.uiently. r. Goon. We are listen! r._ .mess ire. I told you last night th.it I would do ju^- : in re gard to these men," and t .,e general rubbed his hand.-, and looked at the priest as if ask otection. L-ral." Mrs. Castro remarked, with a wit could fight as hard as you talk Fremont and his band of ladro: . all be dead long before this." s my dear," the warrior muttered, and then yielded the floor to the It uas evident she meant to : and the 1 the same time. 44 The young men have been tricked and deceived," Senora Castro said. "They were persuaded to matriculador, and did not understand the mean ing of the word. They wanted to get married, and they did : married." Here the general sighed. He did not seem to think as near as I could judge by hi.. iher thought ha wanted to congr.itul.ite us or. our lucky escape. "The reason the young men were not married was because one of your agents stepped in and spoiled the matter, and then threatened t senors if they did not enlist. Is that th \ uild up t! and in crease the population ?" Senora Castro :h a frov, r lord cd his head, and said that he was satisfied in a dead failure to build up any State. " I am glad to hear you admit so much/ the 1 .ken the liberty to summon t ^ence tlu nio and Carlos Sanchos. The youngest brotht mded. He was shot in the mountains ct <.-, as he de serves, for he attempted to murder tl;- men present, as tin-;. crossing from Los Angeles to Santa T.arbara. The scoundrel was injured, and is still in a ; I have learned this m ion of your agents, that Antonio had some grudge against the . and to >k this means to obtain revenge. You must investigate, and then re voke the commissions of the ladrones. You seco m not, holy fatlv The padre b6Ved as he replied in his gentle at the domestic scene. 44 If the mtn are unworthy the giueral <un t do better than to dismisl ;oo Lewey and /. S. California is too noble a State to harbor viihjis for . : me say one word," Captain Fernando said, as soon as the padre had concluded. " If I had kno.vn all I would never have enlisted the young men under the circumstances. I was told that they were matricula- ;:id sospechosos, and that it would be a good thing to keep them un der our eyes. The first day from Ranche Refugio they saved my life from the attack of a drunken soldier. I hanged the fellow on the limb of a tree." General Castro nodded as though he rather approved of such summary treatment. One drunken Mexican was of little account in his estimation. " At San Luis Obispo these same young men saved your wife and my . insult, and would not inform on the parties who committed the It, for fear I would hang the guilty scoundrels/ "Do give me a chance to utter a thought," the Senora Castro said, and Lewey winked at me as much as to say, " Dis is berry funny." " I have but a word since I entered the room." The general sighed, and seemed to wish that he was far away, on the trail of Fremont and his men, or traveling through the country. " VVhtm I tell you, general, that these young men have killed Apache is you will be surprised,"* Mrs. Castro cried, and her husband, sup posing that he must show astonishment, ejaculated. "The saints preserve us! You don t mean it?" and then lighted a ior Larkin," a servant cried, and threw open the door, and the an consul entered the room, and seemed a little astoni.-hed at the numl>er of people present. ive called, your excellency," Mr. Larkin cried, "to demand the dis- ^e of the.se two young men." . Senors Antonia and Carlos Sanchos," the servant roared, and the ,-nts of the State entered the apartment, and were more surprised than Mr. Larkin on seeing the company. " I-ook here," the general cried, " you two scoundrch have persecuted these youn^ men. My wife would be angry if she was n t an angel," (he vras not emphatic when he said this) "the holy father is indignant, and the American consul is about to threaten us with the vengeance of the United . but that we do not f-?ar. Mexico can take care of herself, and against a hundred foes, but Mr. Larkin is a good man, and we like to oblige him. Captain Fernanfo and his sister are not feeling as though the sail* /. 3 01 *rs v. md I think the f< j j n :ik up, and ^ive me an e the cajjtaia is still seen on : jd for Lewey and ire of California, a t that 1 hail d -nc goo! -.. and im] . ; - - -.le this in the ; 11 to the civ left In-hind for thai e," responded Mr. L.irkin. "The boys wore ! ill the certificates of the captain of tlie i :iut effect, i: 1 ,i little abashed at this inf-r had not in the American consul. .11. i i said, speaking to the wife, for I : .at of her husband, "k 1 . of C my friend ;md I punished hi t > cut us, and in the Bt i his \viih a bo.it-liouk. You can see the scar if the : iisposed to do this, so I continued, m-1 that we were left on shore, thvouj/h ont u- .vey winked with both eyes), -he determi,-.: . aucd to do so until we were iortunate enc Ort to two ladies, and the;. .-lend them from the attacks of ladrones, or dse. 1 us nothing. We owe them everything for .! I oul i :i t do better mineself," Lewcy said in Ei. I irkin could not catch the words, as he r, but you did rub it on : eve all dat you sa inks beat de . blar , i ever hear a more manly little marincro Sen of her husba:, -. general said that he tiuv.i^ht I stood could see, an : L ostello raurm some words that sounded very sweet, and I mpared m to an a- Leivey and I. "Now," s.iici the wife of the governor, "do an act of justice. You hav seard both sides. Issue the order for the young menV . and with draw their matriculadors, so that they will no lon^c .:ice to Mexico and Califon.ia. * " It shall be done. Make out the papers immediately," the general said to his secretary. " Revoke the matriculadors, .i-ul give the your... documents allowing them to remain and travel in the State, where they aacl when they please. All that I require of them io that they will sw*,ir not to take up arms against us or Mexico." .Y> will do it," the impulsive Lewey exclaimed. " We love the people too well to raise our arms against them," and that seemed to satisfy all par lies except the captain. 44 1 ask, general, that you will now revoke the commission* of these two enganchadors," pointing to Antonio and Carlos. "They are not such men as you need for the work. Dishonorably discharge them, and without .." 44 One moment," cried Antonio. 4 Let me say a word." " How dare you speak without permission ? " asked the general s wife. "Yes, how dare you open your mouth until I have given consent?" 1 thundered the general. lie s dished," muttered Lewey in English. " Nothin can save him now. Ve has de vincl aft all de time." .e up your commissions this moment," shouted the general, "and leave the town without delay, or I 11 have you shot before sum! " My own dear husband," cried Senora Castro, and threw her arms around the general s neck, and kissed him on the nose, the most convenient |}ace. " My own kind uncle," Senora Costello exclaimed, anil .iiound his neck rent her arms. Antonio and Carlos drew their commissions from their ! i.dlairt them on the table, by the side of the secretary, and then boAini;. left the room, glad to escape without further injury. 44 H.r.v c:n we 1: mk your excellency for this kindness? The general, as soon as he could nn the embraces of the women, etemed tc think thn matter over, and finally said, : Jish, do you not ?" 44 Y il. It is my native tongue." " Then repay my kindness by doing me a favor. I want to send a me Lcwcy and /. 303 senger to Captain Fremont s camp. Will you take a letter to him from Mr. Larkin motioned with his lips to say "yes," for some reason or other, and I stated that I would go provided I could be accompanied by Lewey. 44 1 have no objections," the general remarked. " In fact, I will give you an escort of ten mounted men if you desire it." my answer. " I think that if I am to hunt Fremont in the mountains it would be much better to go unat tended. Of course you do not wish me to play the part of spy on his movemci . I will not consent to do." ..s the reply, in a hesitating tone. " I should like to know the i of his force and what he means to do, but you need not play the part of a e of my scouts seem able to get information, and all have returned to the town baffled, afraid of this American and his trapp ^e conditions I will undertake the task," I said. i4 When do you requite us to start ?" "Tomorrow morning. My that time I will have your instructions all i must return as soon as possible," and the general bo show that the interview was terminated. left the governor s residence Mr. Larkin walked along the plaza by le. "Tonight," the consul s.ii.i. "I will send you a sealed package by a trusty messe..^L-r. !)> n-t Lt any one see it, or allow the fact to be known. The paper you must place in Captain Fremont s own hand, and bring to me his reply in an c ier. I have been endeavoring to comm \\\ him fora week or more, but failed time and time again through the fear of my couriers. Your appointment as messenger by Gen eral Castro is a wonderful piece of good luck for the United States ; ment and m careful and discreet, and when you return report not more than you see. Me faithful and you shall reap a rich r Ask \ :i friend to keep a close mouth. You can trust him, I tuppr With my 1 ; : nns-vcr. "Tb : tell him more of my busines help. We are surrounded by spu ^n now men arc watch We must be seen together no longer. Do not come near me again, or peak to m- if we should meet. I will see th.it a paper is slipped in . Lcwey and I. hand this evening, and that the letter you bring me from Captain Fremont :sked for outside the Iim!:s of the town. It may be an Indian woman j on my despatch and take the one you bring. If such is the case she will meet you on the trail, near the Mission Carmel, hold out her ham ., and utter but one word, and that one will be papel. It will be of no use to question her, for she will not respond. As soon as you hand her tin per she will plunge into the chapparel and disappear, and you will see her no more. If any one should be near pretend that she asked for charity, but drop the letter in the bushes. She will see your action, and secure the document. D.J you understand all this quite plainly ?" Yes, sir." - j J-by, and success to your mission," and the American consul walked off, a id left me to the pleasing reflection that I was involved in a delicate piece of business, and might meet with trouble before I ended, tor it looked to me as though I had got to serve two masters, and I might fail in pleasing them both. Lewey. when I joined him, was delighted with the thought of undertak ing the excursion. There was just enough danger in it to suit him. He led to be stirring, and meeting with adventures, and dreaded a life that was not full of excitement. I did not think it advisable to go to the mountains in the costume of a ranchero, for I fe ired some or the trappers might make a mistake and pick me off . t, or on purpose, so once more paid a visit to k and his sacked pulperia. Tne old man was disconsolate over the events of tiie pas: night, and had drunk more of his remaining stock of ite than was good for his health, or his understanding. We told him that we now required complete outfits of sailor s costumes, and he had just wiuit we wanted, hats, trousers, and blue flannel shirts. The only igc required being the removal of the word " Ceynne " from the L ie sinnet sombreros, the men who had pawned them for rum not tal the trouble to conceal the name of the national ship from which they had Our new additional suits did not cost us more than three dollars, and, as we 1 "or the articles, Cook was so much moved by the trade he olio red to treat us \ of liquor, and when we declined the said that he would drink them hi:, did M>. Luckily, the\ were \\ell watered so not much haim was done. We passi 1 the <!;iv in l..;!;!:;^ over t!>e town, and in calling or. fades of the cavalry. They professed great joy in : .ing and f. tUr v e were discharged from the service. Two ordinary greasers had been r-y proud they were of t and I DC-,- army, and, in fact, we were so glad to did not think it prudent to put in a claim : .-vcrnmeir. ^ for se. -. .ind, as I did as much ti as some s pension list, and in the samt 1 on the i saw our company drill in the afternoon. ,f,cent, but the evolutions were won.. months that same body of men, u . lent its aid in giving our people a severe thrashing, while on the march from San Pedro to Los Angeles, composed as :re of good sailors and steady marines, five hundred of them ,,t the latter had a field-piece, and .: us, for the United-States forces were in such a h ur ry that tl. ; .r ships without artillery. It was supposed th;; it to a victory, but it was not so in this case. Th, fur our naval officers and it was not forgotten while on rbeaCoffl Stockton started his expedition from :o Los Angeles, with five hundred men and sixty Unite of artillery, and won a ,u of orange-trees and grapes in triumph, and r of the m not encounter Antonio Id that ihey had left town for San Francisco. . but afterward learned that the scour, kad gone in another d.. id we were destined to again meet them in ..icxpccted manner. \\ to the beac i down on the veranda of the old custom house, and looked off on the quiet bay, and recalled the circumstances of our earl -Might how quickly the our is on board tl,< ten, and our duckings in the surf were things to be smi! not commented on in an UTV n\arv ; . ,, of the crew of the schooner C ant, o: .of Salem. M tattooed kana 1 the t seem to trouble them I as ever, wben they could Ui .s from tb governmeoU They did not :o6 Lewey and /. think that any of our national ships would venture to attack the schooner, and in this we agreed with them, for who would venture near that old Queen Anne musket, backed by P kanaka ? We wondered where the Admittance was, and our shipmates, and thought how surprised they would be to see us, and learn about the adventures we had passed through since we separated, Donna Costello was as pleased as ourselves at our release from the Mex ican service, and for the first time insisted that we should sit and dine at her own table. As her husband ventured to offer an objection she asked him why he disappeared so suddenly the night before when the earih- quake was raging. That silenced the man, and he made no more remonstrance. During the evening, while Lewey and I sat in the front yard, smoking and talking over the business of the next day, an Indian woman staggered toward us, and, as she neared me, fell almost in my lap. I uttered an em. phatic exclamation, and wa.s about to push her from me, when I felt a paper thrust into my hand. Recollecting Mr. LarkiVs instructions I put the document in the bosom of my shirt, and the woman regained her feet, and wandered off, staggering and muttering drunken curses on all mankind, and the white race in particular. Lewey did not notice the act, and 1 nothing to enlighten him on the subject. The night passed off without disturbance of any serious kind. The sol- diers yelled themselves hoarse, but we were accustomed to the noise and paid no attention to it, sleeping until sunrise. Then we had a good wash, and donned our sailor suits, fed our horses with a measure of barley, ate our breakfast, and waited for the orders and letter from Genrr.,1 Castro. Captain Fernando brought both at eight o clock, and in a few minutes we had saddled our horses, taken leave of Donna Costello, who looked a little sad as she bade us good-by, whistled to the delighted Jack, and dashed out of town toward the Mission Carmel. We did not meet even a ranchero on the road, or trail, and as we as cended the mountains made as much noise as possible, and even Lewey sang a French song in a shrill tone, as if desirous of attracting some attention. When on the summit of the range, and near the place where we had met the scouts a few days before, one ! , :.i/in-j note fro: I ,ired to have the desired effect < ling lif in that vast solitude, for two i, well-armed men stepped from a thicket of bushes in front of us, and looking back we saw others in our rear, with rifles all ready for use. / and I. .e order, and we obeyed. .4 v, B next question, and we saw that two of the men -.He persons we had encountered otu on the mountains. rican," I said, "as I told you day before yesterday. \\ Jo yer want here ? " was the stern question. To s "o Captain Fremont. We have despatches for him from General Why did n t thegineral come with them himself?" asked the 1- outs. " He is particularly engaged in counting his money and drilling his men, I x-d. ,,v much money has he, and how many men?" was the gruf ques: re do not know. He would not trust us with and we 1 in the greasers under his command. We agreed to carry a letter to Captain Fremont, and expect to be paid for it. Show us your leader, and our duty is ended." r lives too, if you play any of yer monkey shines on i: Give me the letter, and I will see that the captain gits it," and the scout ind. "G mend," I remarked. " I must see the captain in person. to perform or I get no pay, and you wotil! n t take the I I the mouths of two hard-working sailors, would ere n t yer in greasers costume the other . are in our national dress, such as we deligl wear under the >tars and sti: The men consulted together, and then the leader said, with me. I 11 take yer to the camp, and if yer prove traitors we 11 put some bullets in yer carcasses so qu what hurted \ The leader of the party and another man motioned f them, left the trail, and the ^ )me the place were half .nted, and rode through the chapparel and bushes i when we were near :niles from Monte: halt was called for rest ftfl r Fremont s quarters, and should soon explorer and his command. CHAPTER X. CAPTAIN FREMONT S CAMP. THE MESSAGES AND DESPATCHES. A AROUND A FIRE. THE COYOTES CALL. TIC INfc MR. LARKIN. INSTRUCTIONS. ON THE :,. THE INDIAN WOMAN. THE CAVALRY SQUAD. Tli FOR LfcTtBRS. ^TR<> IS SURPRISED. LEUT.Y TELLS 5. STORMING THE CAMP. FISHING IN A !-,.(,. TI1K AMERICAN PRlGATS. SPIES ON ALL SIDES. A FRUNDLV WARNING -A NIGHT OF TKKKOR. A GLAD MGIIT. AS soon as our guides called a halt on the summit of the mountain, a ** place that some people call San Juan and others, Hawk s Peak, al though I think the latter name is the recognized authority, we knew that we were near the camp of the invader. 44 Str aid the trapper, "yer can t go no further on this trail until yer is blindfolded. \\-r may be all right, and I hope yer is, but we i lo Injun ways, and don t trust no one till he is proved honv ,1 just slip a scrape over yer heads, and then lead the bosses, and yer won t much of our place arter yer leaves it. Now hold still, and keep quiet. We won t be rough unless yer is." "Go ahead," we said. " Only don t fool with the dog as he is dangerous . Let him see all that he can, and we 11 go it blind." i.m ere is good poker wor .as the grim rejoinder, al- not aware of it at the time. " Now hold still. I reckon n t see much, and if yer comes near smotherin 1 jist sing out and -VS." re put over our heads one of the scouts uttered a cry like the bark of a coyote, and after a moment s silence the sound was re Lewcy and I. ,, could not tell, ow aer. tear." over rocV throi . up hill and d lhe ani our appearance, ! we found ourselves sur- I armed with rifles . kmves. .,-nrstly as they regarded us, and then 01 ,.-m httecl mor water t said. "Let some . and response, a rtheappt we had heard of seen all t;.e tin eak to th we . : m of conv at, and a son point . far as ?: mting shirt of dressed was a c -on har, vel>^neath h. Uco:r nt for use Lcwcy and I. lected for an important command, as, if the truth must be told, he was dressed a little worse than his companions, and perhaps a trifle dirtier. But his face and eyes were attractive, and showed power and endurance, and when he spoke there was something in his tones that denoted will and courage. We were so astonished at the appearance of the man that we could only stare ai him for a few minutes, unable to speak. Perhaps Fremont realized the feelings he inspired, and let us gaze without interrupting our medita tions, but, after he supposed we had looked him over long enough, sudden- y said, M \Vell, lads, who are you and what do you want ? " He did not speak in an impatient tone, or as though he was angry, but just as a business man does when he tells one ol his clerks to fill an order and waste no time about it if he knows what is good for himself. " Is you de celebrated Captain Fremont? " asked Lewey, who was anx ious to make a good impression, " and does you speak de French ? " " I am Ca:tuin Fremont, but never mind about the French as long as you speak English," was the reply, and a cold, chilly smile accompanied the words, as if the speaker did not care for joking. " Captain," I said, " this young man is a native of France, and I am an an. We were formerly sailors in the same ship, but were discharged on account of sickness. We thought of marrying, and settling down in the country, but have been disappointed." At this stage of the story the captain grinned, as I supposed he would. Our pathetic love story always made both thoughtless and serious laugh, just as though two boys could not be stricken with the tender passion, and de sire to \\-. "Come to the point," the captain remarked, as soon as the smile disap peared. u You wish to join my force since there is no chance for matrimo ny. Is that the case? " . sir, far from it. We have had all the soldiering we desire for the c of our lives," and I rapidly related our experience in the ravalry. .\ as kind enough to 11 :tcn without a word of comment, and when I had concluded askc 1 abruptly. " How many men arc there in that company of cavalry, and who com mands \\ If he expected to get any information from us he was mistaken, even if he did take us by surprise in asking the question. .don me, captain," I said, "we are not here as spies or tale-bearers. Ltwey and T. 311 so please ask us no questions that would not be honorable in us to answer, came here as messenger* for General Castro simply because we were able, and can speak English. He discharged us from the Mexican J our matriculadors, and is to j ive us a pass to reside or travel in any part of the State. We perform this duty as a debt of gratitude to him, and with the understanding that we should not be required to state what we saw here, or heard, your strength or intentions. The gene despatches will tell you all that you require to know about his busii. He looked at us calmly, seemed to weigh each word that I uttered, ns if to determine my sincerity, and, while the captain and I were thus occupied, Lewey put in his oar. "Ve has been unfortunate in not bein married, but at de same time ve honest young men," just as though th , l. jwey uttered the words the captain looked at him, and so steadily that my friend dropped his eyes, for the fust time a little abashed at his temerity in speaking. " You need say nothing about the forces under General Castro," Captain Fremont said, after a pause, "if you think such a course compromises you in the Ica^t. I know as well as you do how many men ister, iu- I .i.u the latter are not of much account just at pres ent. I saw some of them pass over the mountains the other the I was not inspiring to a warrior. Give me the letter from the .swer tomorrow. It is too you to return to town. We shall have to keep you in camp ail ni-ht. passes are difficult, and my scouts might tumble on you in ti. IS, or on the trails, and i: -.ill do all that i to sec that you are comfortable, and do not get hu;. He nodded to a Delaware Indian, ex^ n in a lone, and then said, "This man will look after ->d see that tl, ictted and fed. They will be safe in the morning, n uth are nic<- .:iimals, and the tei- of my men. The 1 they I vn. or wh it is tnor I approached and ; G letter in the hand, and as I did so gave him Mr. L.irkin s document at the same time. 41 One is from the A consul," 1 ilc is anxious to commit* ;c with you for some reason best known to himself. I will take your an swer, and see that he get* it I lo this for the honor of my country and 312 not for gain. I act as messenger for General Castro, and not Mr. Larkin, but the Jailer will keep the matter lo himself, and 1 hope you will also. -afety depends upo:. He no i.i jd, drew aside his hunting dress, and put the papers in his bosom, and as tie did so I saw that instead of wearing white linen next to his skin he had a red riannel shirt like the rest of his men, and not a particle c^ u d judge by a hasty glance. 1 never fully kne.v the contents of either despatch, but I .surmised that Mexican general stated to Captain Fremont his firm intention of kick ing him out of the State in shoif. order unless he took his departure in a i time. Mr. Larkin s letter, I was afterward partially informed, con tain >rtant announcement that the Columbus, Independence, and were near the coast, and might be expected in Monterey harbor .y time. Fremont was advised to risk no general engagement, as the .icans were in strong force, and if they conquered the result would be is for American interests. This was sound and good advice, and I taken credit to myself for carrying such valuable information to one who was hemmed in by mountains and an unfriendly and revengeful !e. If the United .ernment is disposed to grain me a pension rvices on the occasion, dating from 1846. I shall not refuse it, for .uluable to people who write books for a living, liu:. )lics are ungrateful, I fear the government will never do justice, and vote me the money. The commander of the forces retired to tha shade of a tree to read his des^. !iile Lewey and I wandered around the enclosure, which the had fortified - trees, forming a complete abatis, the branches extending outward, making the storming of the place one of extreme difli- . especially when the inner circle was defended by sixty-five men \\ho accustomed to the use of rifles all their lives, and dead shots at one irds or more. :ier was ready we were requested to take our share with the men. : of venison, and not much else, but as there was enough of it no one went hungry. Even- hour a b "iild drop in, and m a report, and another one depart for some secret service. It was evident that I,-, - } ( on outside of the lines that the commander ( i not know, it of the question. . us without suspicion, and wi: hey did not insist upon knowing too much of what was going on m Lcwey and I. 315 to\vn. One of them inquired if we were shaken up by the earthquake, and asked how Cook felt at the loss of his aguardiente ? Then some of the men ia :.j one brauny ; i, iould like to have been thar, and got a whack at that rum. It seems to me, Jim, yer could have made away with a bottle or two outside es," and Jim responded by saying in a significant to. " I had somethin else to think oi ji.->t at that time, with a hundred fright ened _ . .lund me, and any one ol em ready to cut my \\izzen at the -i Yank. 1 ;jroof to me that one of the trappers had visited Monterey on the night of the earthquake, in disguise, and seen all that transpire taken :. . forces and surroundings. The mission dangerous one, and if he had been discovered his life would have paid the penalty of his rashness. But as Jim spoke some Spanish he pi 1 through the crowd unnoticed and undetected. That evening we sat around the camp lire, smoked our pipes, and listened to the tough yarns of the trappers and guides. They told of bold encoun- :h Indians, grisly bears, and other animals, and seemed as careless of the future as school boys. They did not know the plans of their com- : -.hat they were, as long as he led them, confident that he would cut his way through all o: Ji the ins numbered ten to one. They had come from the b.i Sacrament- marched by easy stages to their present camp, and would leave.- when they got ready, and not before. I think that tin the m set of men that I ever saw in an enemy s their number, and with no hope for relief in case they were* heir line of retreat. :ied himself up in his blankets under a trc for a ; ! went to sleep, six Delaware Indians his devoted body guard l>i 4 <>n the ground near him, ready to start into life and a at a monv -l.s at their sides, and long knives r It prti i night in camp, as we sat no fire, with stout bearded men all around us, the - Hid the myst forest- :p from the valleys and sides of the mountain. On< while be wai heard, and then the trappers listened very attentively, and after the noise was repeated would mutter, " That s a real brute arter a supper," or else some one growled out, 316 Lewey and I. ue matter with Jake that he s makin all tha: ould tell ; to my ears both yelps M ...a 1 eouiil nui u:>iinguish il.< ^ ana snarii.ig of the brutes. .e by one the hunters druppu I . and then Lev, and Jack rolled ourselves up io our bL K Idles for pillous \ .ua we heard no more noise uiuii daylight, when the men got up, ihuuoclves, and some prepared breakfast, while others shuuiucred their ritles, and departed upon secret service, uf word, and receiving no orders. lads," growled the trapper who had led us into camp, soon after breakfast, and \ve removed the pipes from our mouths, went to the commander, who had resumed his seat on the stump of a i: and :st as he did the day before, handkerchief and all, contented, apparently without a thought of what the day wouid 1 : forth. " Have you eaten your breakfast ? " Captain Fremont asked as we stood before him. ir." in return to town immediately I suppose ?" " Yes, sir, if you desire us to go," was our prompt answer. I do, -a Delaware who stood near, ever watchful, for 1 i.Aain Fremont said, ! young men s animals immediately, so that tin;, dep, vare went on his mission, and then the commander to< docu : n his pocket, and handed them to me. ." he said, -is for Mr. Larkin and the other f- ^ee that both safely reach theic destination. 1 hav quo governor to make my \\. ompliance, and now I sh.ili hav-- ; e of his army." i : :\" I C ld r of men could not accomplish it." ! ovt-r the bron/.e ! . "Ik I made uy, and go I Lnuey and /. n 110 information on that point, I cried hastily. " I did .is a spy, and refuse to act the part of one." .iplain said in .. me, and with a look on his ^hing his words -cry carefully, " I want you to ..; the same time. You must volunteer to ie General Castro and his army to this camp." , laiic.illy, and looked the indignation that I felt it the s ;ttered Lcwey. " Ve is not mouchers, by von blanked The explorer waited until our indignation had subsided, and then spoke as , before, as though he did not feel discouraged by our Understand me, yo No harm can happen to my command if do as I request. I have a motive in making it. Listen to |vcly, and I lus plainly because I think you honest and trust- Acre not I should withhold my confidence. General Cas- be led here, and given the impression that I am weak in point of Cumbers and intrenchment. I want him to charge the camp, and capture nvolve the shedding of much blood, and our own lives ild be sacririced by the defeated Mexicans. No, captain, you must think- some other scheme. We will not take part in the one you propos . ; the reply, "did I not say the camp was to be cap- \icans?" i and the men will lose your lives. The Mexicans are preju- < .tijainst you, and will spare not if they succeed in getting you in their Jower. -ight and fall, than be captured and shot by the e;: * counsel, young man," was the calm reply, " but I do no: ; .* be captured or shot if I can prevent it. All that I a*k for is time, :i .ie I must have. Listen to me, and pay particular attention to what ! t is important, and I will trust you. We have but ten Ammunition for each man, and that is not enough for a siege. rtsmouth, I have just learned by a courier, is .r ind from her we can get all the powder and lead we desire. I tocpect leen cut off. I thought I should lock the frigate Congress in Monterey barbar, or At Santa Barbara, but she Lewey and /. has not arrived at either place. General Castro is preparing to throw a force between me and the latter port. He has a regime :. Jry at Santa Cruz to cut off my retreat to Verba Buena. Tomorrow five compa nies will occupy the canyons between here and Santa Barbara. I could whip either force if I had plenty of ammunition. But as I have not I must do the best I can, and avoid giving or accepting battle. If Castro wi . draw his men from Santa Cruz, and concentrate them in front of me, under the impression that I am determined to go to Santa Barbara, all would 1. You can manage this by reporting that I am fierce for a forward movement, and will make one at all hazards, say by the day after tomorrow. Do you under tand me ? " " Yes, sir. When the camp is charged on there will be no one here to capture," I remarked. "That is about the whole story/ was the careless reply, with a faint smile. " I can do it," Lewey said. " If my friend no vant to speak on account of his country me do it for him. I does not vant to tell a lie, but I \il! for vonce. Dal is, I let fall de hint." The captain nodded, and waved his hand to intimate that the interview was terminated, and also for the Delaware to bring up the hoi saddled. i will not be blindfolded in returning to town," Captain Fremont said, as we mounted our mustangs and railed the dog. " Keep you: open, and note the trails and canyons. You may want to find your \\ay back in c.ve of necessity," and, just as we were about to bid the explorer adieu, who should enter the camp, in charge of t.vo scouts, but Antonio and Carlos Sanchos. We could not divine their errand, for it was evident they were willing captives, and then it suddenly struck me that the greasers were Fremont s md in his pay. or else were desirous of selling their services to him in revenge for their treatment by General Castro. "Captain," I cried, as the Mexicans moved toward him, their dark faces showing some of the hate they felt for us, yet surprised at the mi/cling in an enemy s camp, "these two ruffians are the worst scoundrels in Califor nia. They will sell you for an ounce of gold. Do not put any faith in them. They will lie and steal from rll parties." " I know them," was the quiet n " And, cap en," cried :he irrepressible Lewey, " p ease keep de throat- cutters in de camp till vc is clear ot de trails and de canyons. Ve does nof /- / /. 3 r 9 to meet sich peoples in de vilderness unless ve has de fust shot. Au We touched the horses, and passed out of the only entrance that was .: of fallen trees, and as we did so saw the two Mexican greasers gazing us, hate stamped on their ugly faces, yet baffled because they did not understand a word we had uttered, not comprehending our English, yet suspecting we had given Fremont a hint. rude trappers joked us as we passed them, and intimated that they soon see us again. shall be in Monterey in a little while," they said. "Tell old Cok to get in a fresh stock of rum, and not to water it. We want ours >Ie of the abatis a Delaware Indian on foot joined us, and said that .-% to act as guide to the main trail. still and close, 1 he said, and then moved along . side, down the valley, through a narrow gorge, and finally \ the m.in trail that led to Monterey. "You go dat way," the Indian said, and pointed in the direction of the . anil without another word he turned and ; to the forest, and to sight, and we could not even hear his fo<>: r the dry - so careful w. man in pickir. A e noticed that he did not return the same route that he followed when acting as our escort. i<l seen no one since K I na ,l no doubt but that watchful eyes noted our movements, ar.d kept the run of o- vas the more convinced of this b- we turned toward the town, we heard far up the side of the mountain the hoarse . not a bird of that species was in sight. Then further along there was an other "caw," id suddenly the wills* : :en :;et, and the forest seemed deprived of life, for not so much as >unded across the trail as we loped along or. , to rey. before we got to the Mission Carmel we noticed an Indian woman ?rries by the side of the road. She was so much occupied she did not even look toward us, but continued In r > k h head bent down and busy fingers. it luck, old lady?" asked Le-.vey, .is we walked our horses past hex. Lcwey and /. She did not glance at us, but sim;>ly uttered o 1, and that was, el." Remembering Mr. Lirkin s instructions, I dropped the letter which I had received for him from Captain Fremont into a clump of passed on, but as I glanced back the Indian worn in was work toward the place where the missive was concealed, and when we turned a bend in the trail, and took one more look, she had from sight, and I saw no more of her, but it was lucky she met us ju.- .id, for as we turned we ran plump into a squad of Mexican cavalry, who \\cre drawn across the road, on the watch for stragglers and foreign scouts, and rather careless in the handling of their CJU r four or live were pointed at us, all of them loaded and cocked, and the sergeant of the force . out in a fierce tone, <." Of course we stopped. It is always best to obey ord-jrs when you can t help yourself, and to have jjreen soldiers fooling with loaded guns in your nee is not suggestive of a long and happy life. * Who are you ?" the sergeant demanded, as he rode up to take a look The fellow knew us very well, but preK. some reason we could not divine. are couriers in the employ of General Castro," L vered. "We have despatches for his excJleii t me see them," was the next order. The piper was shown to him, but as he could not read it did not help matters much. Dismount, and let me search you," the petty officer coir " What for?" demanded Lewey. "We do not We have no papers on our persons except this one from Captain Freir the governor." " Yn:i have seen the robber, have yon ? " asked the non-comnv ficer, and his men listened with eager 1<> "We left Captain Fremont only a few hours s our en replv. " How many men has he un me," I cried, for the general, and not fof you. If we are detained much longer it k von will hear of it in some forcible manner. His excellent;, .-nt man when he is waiting for news." Liwty and I. "He must wait this time." was the answer, " for I am going to search h of you. Such are my orders, 1 am sorry to sa " Do you not recollect us ? " I asked. " You must have seen us \ .. when we departed from Montere I, and when you came with the volante, as escort for the general s wife and Captain Fernando s sister. We know you quite well, but fo. all we must search you. It is orders." running Castro, or some one else, had fiarod and suspect- d have a package for Mr. Lark in, and if that WAS obtained the true | condition of Captain Fremont and his force would be known. The Ameri- consul knew the peculiarities of Mexican character, however, and had f posted the Indian woman where she would be apt to encounter us before the soldiers were stumbled upon. The latter never thou. iustrious . y-picker was waiting for a paper that the M , anx . :>us to get hold of, and so she passed on her vay. and thv that same ev :1 the sum of twenty dollars for our I ..ore than <> pay for our sailor suits. I trust t!. irnbursed Jhc consul for the outlay, but fear not. -mounted, and the sergeant went through our clothing like an ex- |_ pcrf pick pocket. He found nothing, however, but was a little curious over our money bells, where our doubloons were secreted. lold the they were charms for keepin; off evil spirits, and so our gold was disturbed, as we feared it would be, for there n h to ten iecompa ,; ry to commit mur-: * Go on," said the sergeant i as the exumiuat; You are all right. \Ve are satisfi..-,! that VMM | U vi- told . id not waste any time, but remounted o^r horses, and dashed to- t*rd the tou ^ about three o clock in the afternoon, v , directly to the government house, but the gene; i hort siesta, 1 not be disturbed, so waited an hour before he awoke and re- I us. 44 Well, senors." he asked, as we were ushered into his presence, " how t did you find Captain Fremont and his band of plunderer ain is well, ge:; ; (at ch for \our in- I formation," and I handed the governor the letter I had :.om the *plorer. Lcwey and I. The general opened it, looked at the writing, and then said, in a tone of scorn, " It is in English. I do not read that language. Translate for me, and let us hear what he says. 1 I took the document, and by Lewey s aid made out that the captain was defiant, and intended to march to Santa Barbara at all hazards, and at an early day. He declared that his intentions were peaceable, but he should use force against force if necessary, and kill all who opposed his progress. The governor was indignant, as he had a right to be. He swore a liU/e in choice Spanish, and then turned to us and asked, " How many men has this Fremont under his command ? " " General," I said, "you know you promised we should not be used as spies. Please spare us the pain of refusing your request for information." The general frowned, and Lewey saw that the answer was not agreeable. He tried to blunt the point of my speech by shoving in an oar in his usual impressive manner. " My friend," he said, " is an American, and proud of his country. He thinks that it would be treason to give reports that might damage his na tion. But I am a Frenchman, and can do as I please. Question me, gen eral, and I will answer like a truthful man." I gave Lewey a look that should have made him quiver, but he did not appear to notice it. He seemed hardened, and lost to all shame. " Well, my friend," asked Castro, " how many men has Fremont under his command ?" " Two hundred," was the prompt response. " I counted them all, and know Every hunter is a dead shot with his rifle, and say that they Can march all over the country, and no one dare to dispute their \v,iy." 1 looked at the lad with admiration. He could lie magnificently when he was disposed to let himself out, and it was evident he was going to do jus tice to his reputation during the interview. "I thought," crie-V the surprised governor, "that there were not mor than one hundred los Americanos." v mistake, I assure your excellency. The captain is so strong that he thinks of sending part of his force to Santa Cruz, and capturing the regi ment that is there. I heard the pl.in discussed," the wicked boy ex claimed. "Diablo, is that so? We must look to it at once. My men have no idea of such an intention. I will send an aid to recall all the cavalry this Lewey and I. very night. The saints preserve me, but \\hat a lucky escape. Ah, you are a wonderful boy. You have umr eyes open all the tin, The mode Mushed.it the compliment, and b . profound ly, while I gazed at my friend in wonder. 14 Did you heir," insinuated the general, "at what time the Americans ^ up their line of marc ne was not definitely fixed, replied the youth, "but I s .vill move alx>ut the day after torn Net a nvin shall escape us," and the !>cd his hands, as he thought of the surprise in store i lead that the Interview was ended, and we retired from :he presence of the general, Lewey well satisfied with the part h .: to car. utrageously?" I asked my friend, as we mounted our horses to ride to the house of Donna Costello. *Dal the lad replied. He vill lie to us to suit hi> ure, and ve mu*t meet cheat vid cheat. I is a Frenchman, a: for de di;.: !iud I de chance a future great vould be bef. Even de n \.ipulcon could tell som : ,jm it ^hould not I foliar his exam; ! _ was no use replying to such an ar-ument. so ! remained | \ve walketi our I-,. <>ss the pi.. ,f people turned ie rumor had go: a O n a uid returned alive, a wo: ,>ne. ..rkin sitting on his veranda. I ut isers of the he never saw us again, and yet the Kith anxiety to learn all . , of our trip, an-i if a c< would be placed in his hands before many hours, so that he crul i be in- ; ofco-nin.; i . irere many watchful eyes on u Mr. Luk.p. a-id t!ie lea . .,j fo j >t . of the fact. And jentle- .-:e of his presence, and Donna i aiTeciio had been her brothers, returning from a jo. :al monti j \\\> turned our horses into the corral, gave them a feed of 1 arley, and then listened to the questions of our s-.veet hostess, who was as full 324 Lewey and I. gallons as a school-girl. She supposed that Captain Fremont and bis men v.-ere nearly akin to Apache Indians, black, with long hair, and half naked, savage and untamable, feasting on raw meat, drinking blood as a simple tonic, and murdering all who crossed their path or fell into their hands. It was useless to reason with the lady, or convince her that she had formed erroneous impressions of my countrymen. She had been told by her people the most extravagant stories, and really credited them. In the year 1846 such yarns were generally believed, and women of superior edu cation, far above that which most received in the country, declared they should prefer death to falling into Fremont s hands. The most absurd canards were reported by the government officials for the sake of firing the hearts of the people, and destroying the explorer and his men. I do not mean to intimate that the latter were angals when on a scout, or foraging expedition, but they were not near so bad as the Mexicans in their treat ment of men and women at lonely ranches. So Donna Costello, in defiance of her regard for me, would not be con vinced, and I gave up the attempt, and let Captain Fremont take care of his own reputation, as I supposed he \\\u capable of doing without any as. sistance on my part. Captain Fernando called to see his sister in the evening, and had a long talk with us. From hints which he dropped we knew that General Castro was massing his troops for an attack in the course of a day or two. We told the young officer that we had seen Antonio and Carlos Sanchos in the camp of Fremont, and that it looked to us as though they had gone there willingly, and for the purpose of selling the secrets of the government to an enemy. He was much surprised at the news, and immediately repaired to the governor to impart the information, and the next day we had the pleasure or ; I proclamation in which all three of the brother declared enemies of the republic, and therefore outlaws, and a price set on their 1, ! or alive. This was something of a change from being the unscrupulous secret agents of the State, and we rejoiced that we had aided in their downf.ill, for they had persecuted us, and nearly wrecked our lives by their plots. The next day being Friday, and having nothing to do, we borrowed the schooner California s boat, and went off the Point of Pines fishing, and great success rewarded our undertaking. We caught over a hundred pounds of red fish, and some other . in the course of a few hours, and then distributed the catch among suc i families as our little hostess designated, the governor being made happy by the present of about twenty ; and I. 3- pound*, and Donna Augu.-ta con: l to us i new field of industry and j ! ful1 of !: therc LQ in the town, or a s-pare boat to ime afterward Lewey an.! I made a profitable living in s. ie market with such fish as we caught, and sold to 1 ho had ! to buy. Quite a number woul i state in quiet and polite tones, when fob, that the money would be forthcom or I suppose the principal and interest of sums owed us in M i pay for several months board at the best hotel in the place the present time and present r .-vening Captain Fernando j I ustomed .vhile we sat smoking, intimated that a movement would be made on ! remont the ne . <! asked :: the fun. I did not know how to answer the question, and required to think it over, while Lewey said that he m .ain was urging me to accept the invitation an Indian .1 Ml nearly in my lip, Kit a ttlc piece of P.II-- into my hand, and un- : he meaning quite plainly, so said not a word, but concealed the ket until I should 1 tne aid of a lamp. *Get out of this, you drunken, old hag," roared our fri c wo nun uttered some words in her native dialect, and staggered off, ci> -.\ the cro i-le an excuse that I wante<l to fill my pipe, entered the ki: where a few coals were still alive in the little circle that answered for stove and range, lighted a sliver, and read on the paper the sir. "t, Then I burned the scrap of writing, for I knew where it c.ime from, and ,cd the young captain and his sister. i will accompany my brother, will you not ? " Donna Costello asked. 1 should feel so much easier in my your friend were r him in the hour of battle. He is so rash, and the A are so deadly with their rifles. Say that you will go. 1 ild not withstand such special pleading just after I : irect command from the consul, so d do a^ 1 must not be required to take j-art in an .men. This was readily agr. ! the same provis- 326 Lewey and 1. "General Castro is to take command," the young captain said, "so we may expect hot and bloody work," and for the life of me I did not know if the officer was sarcastic or serious in his remark. " The bugles will sound at five o clock," Fernando said, as he prepared to leave us. " By six o clock we shall be in the saddle. Better put on your Mexican costumes to prevent mistakes on the part of our men." He kissed his sister good-by, and in a few minutes the house was quiet, and we slept until the loud notes of the bugles awakened us in the morning. We looked out, and saw men forming on the plaza, and luard the rum bling of three pieces of light artillery, as it made its way out of town, fol lowed by a squad of cavalry, and then half a dozen companies of infantry trotted along, looking none too satisfied with the job before them. We fed our horses, tied Jack up, as he was not wanted on such an expe dition, had a cup ot coffee and breakfast of tortillas and frijoles, the cooks and servants looking at us with wonderment, thinking we were heroes, and then, in defiance of all military rules, lighted our pipes, and rode over to where Captain Fernando was hard at work getting his men in line, prepar atory to acting as escort for General Castro. As we took our places at the head of the column, special aids to the young captain, I looked across the plaza, and saw Mr. Larkin, as usual seated on the veranda of his house, and apparently quite indifferent to all that was going on around him. He did not even salute Lewey and myself, and appeared not to see us. Our old comrades grinned when they saw us, and uttered joking remarks about our desire to smell gunpowder, and then there was a hush along the line as General Castro and a brilliant staff rode by and trotted out of the town. ; By fours," shouted Captain Fernando, and the men obeyed the order, and we were off at a lope, the women waving their hands, the boys cheer- el the Indians looking on in sullen apathy, not caring who licked, or if we never returned. Just as we got about a mile from the town, and had settled down to a walk, having overtaken the advance, who should heave in sight but old Cook, mounted on a horse that he had picked up somewhere. We won dered to see him, as he was not a fighting man, but his errand was soon made known. Out of the fullness of his heart he had brought two large flasks of aguardiente, and gave them to Lewey and myself, on the ground that we had shown him many acts of kindness in the past, and bought all of our clothes from his store. r and I. " It is for snake bites," the old fellow g , a wink of his watery eyes. " Lots of rattlers in the woods, and one might nip you. Don t too bold for the sake 01 do all the tightin_ you wanted to," and Cook returned to the town, reope.. iiop, and hoped for the time when ships-of-war woulJ enter ihe harbor, sailors ci. ruin, and have the cash to pay foi it. \Ve marched until late in the afternoon, a : ,r the night, strong squads of infantry and cavalry being tl.: ctions to s c ii a foe lurked near. But no one of a suspicious nature was met, so Booked our suppers, and ate them in peace, yet ail that night, when awake, I could hear the fierce barks of coyotes on the sides of the moun- . and the solemn hoots of owls, or the shrill screams of eagles, and ndered if Fremont s men were engaged signaling to their leader our position and numbers, or if the noises were natural ones. we were umler way again, and in the advance. We saw no of scouts, and not a shot was fired all day. The artillery was dragged over some rough places, and finally placed in position just at sundown, and men cooked their suppers within sight of Fremont s camp-fires, and looked ^lum as they thought of the next day. vey," I said, after we had eaten a portion of Captain Fernand tions, and lighted our pipes, " let us give the young fellow a lift, and a rep- :\ for dash and courage." - Ho .v 5 " the French lad asked. " I is reddy for anydinV 1 " You know as well as I do, I continued, " that Fremont and his men are not in their camp at the present time. Their fires are burning but they gone toward San Francisco, and will travel all night, and in the morn- :it will be useless on the part of the M Veil, vot of dat ? " " Only this. Suppose we pursuade Captain Fernando to lead a charge at d He will d.tsh toward the deser rapture it, and his name will be mentioned for gallantry, and then promotio:. > it," my friend exclaimed, and t moment he was deeply en- ,-_-d in an earnest conversation with the young captain, and the result a hasty visit to the headquarters .tro, and when the offi cer returned he s.ii-1 that his r,-qu know if we would accompany him in the charge, and as there was no ger we agreed to do so. The men were informed of theii honorable position, bat did not seem particularly ple.ised at the prospect before them. There was no retreat I.tivt and I. ::id just as the sky showed signs o( light in the morning the dis- .. y was ti>r:n.- I in line, * lew hasty orders issued, and then came the word, ielante," or "forward." ashed over rocks and fallen trees, not a shot being fired, and with a cheer charged over the abatis, and the camp was in possession of the Mexi cans. Not a single defender was in sight. All had vanished during the ;\nd left their rires burning, the embers still smoking. All the prop I been re mo.- i some old saddles and blankets not taking away. IJut the stronghold was captured, and Fremont had retreated. That was glory enough, and for a while the air was vocal with cheers and congratulations. Captain Fernando siiook hands with us, and declared that his fortune was now made. The cheers reassured General Castro. Up the mountain side he came on the run, his horse jumping over trees and stones, and when he wa in the circle of the camp, and saw that the victory was complete, ; . no bounds. "Glory to the saints," he cried. "Long live Mexico and the republic. The victory is ours. Give me a piece of paper." .LIK!O handed the governor a slip of paper, and then the gen era! wrote a despatch for the people of Monterey. Instead of ink he used gunpowder, dissolved in a little water. " On the field of battle," he wrote, " I pen this despatch. Our troops have achieved a great victory. The daring robber and his men have been driven at evrry point, and are in rapid flight. I shall pursue, and not Jeave a man alive to pollute our soil. To the saints belong the glory o" tins ;re.Y i. I shall send all the spoil captured to Monterey. Let the belli rin r , and the people rejoice. I proclaim a day of feasting for thi success." " Colonel," the governor said, turning to our young friend. ;>tain, your excellency," young Fernando responded, in a modef tone. " No, sir, colonel, from this time forth. You have won the title, an{ shall wear it. For your bravery on this trying occasion take this despatct to Monterey, and lose not a moment. I will push o.i. an .! overtake iht robbers." It was with much difficulty that Lewey could prevent a shout of laughter eicaping from his throat, and thus incurring tlie d.-adly enmity of the gov- trnor. He gave me a look, but did not dare glance at the newly-mad* Lewey and /. colonel. The c: i luve l^cn too much for both of them. ,, n prom< ; renown I- -ind i hoped would prove i ul. "General/ said the youn- colonel. " I will hasten to the town, and carry no objections these two young men shall ac- jmpan .; lcm if j ...ive behaved as gallantly as Mex ^hould like to promote them if they were in the army." .oral and his enthusiastic follow ie mountain we found our horses, mounted, AH ere the good QCWl v*l received with shout.. .led a meeting of the inliabitants, and it was resolved to en- :n the go ien he returned with a bull and ge. The programnv.- :or f for in a few days the troops made a triumphant entra .:: pursuit, as we knew he won iff, then the trumpeters, and f< x-horses with the captured materials, consisting of old a blouse which some one had forgotten. . United Slates buttons the soldiers swore that it w .is Fremont s unii I on exhibition at the government hous the . n. A Te Deuni bratcd in the church, and the bull -fight was a j;rcat success, only one \ an oeing killed, and four hordes injured. .imcd the duties of his high po 1 drill very proficient in their evolutions. I ! :1 to Lcwey an 1 mys-lf th.it v, r.vited to stello s house our home, as a protection to her am: ,MHC faint nd then turned oui r the sake of \ v.iy the time, and mak were free to -ed, and could t not been so dangcrou le country being infeste: >nes and wandering i of . . determined to steal, and kill all who opposed mtime built .1 ce ,. ,-e persons, and se. morning, cnuld before dinner, and sold what we .?jo Lewey and L reration for board, so we kept her table supplied with fish, and such friends as she designated. We were thus enabled to save a few dollars each week, and were very pleasantly situated. My evenings I devoted to teaching the pretty little \\ife English, and while she did not make much progress, the gratitude she expressed was more than enough to recompense me for my trouble. One morning, in the early part of July, 1846, we were fishing oil the Point of Pines, anchored near the black rocks, in a dense fog, with a light southerly breeze. The sport was good, and we were rapidly completing our fare, when suddenly we heard the flapping of sails, and rattling of blocks, and then the shrill notes of a boatswain s whistle, at the same time the mo notonous tones of a leadsman, as he chanted, By the deep nine," showing the ship was in nine fathoms of water. " By gar," said Lewey, " von man-of-war near us. Hear dat quartermas ter in de chains takirv de soundin s." "By the mark eight/ we heard from the ship, and we supposed she was feeling her way into port, but was too near the rocks, we judged, to be safe and prudent, if she would escape disaster, as there was a sunken ledge that run some distance from the shore. The fog was so thick we could not see the vessel, but \ve imagined her to be a man-of-war by the sound of the pipes of the boatswain s mates, and the regular chants of the leadsmen, one on each side of the craft, calling the depth of water every ha!f minute. " Ship ahoy," I hailed. " Well, what is it ?" responded a stern voice from the unknown vessel. .ter starboard your helm a little, and keep off a point or two. Von are near a reef." We heard the order given to starboard, for the sailing-master must have known that the advice was good, and then we were hailed in return. " Boat ahoy," came in ringing tones from the ship, as she fanned her way along, under the light breeze, just enough for steerage way. " Well," was our answer. " Who are you ? " was demanded from the ship. liermen of Monterey," and Lewey grinned as I answered. " Phase rome alongside," was the next command. " I replied, " we are very comfortable where vve are." " If you do not drop alongside we will send a shot in your direction," was the next threat, 44 And -\aste your powder an<} lead. You could not hit a barn-door in Lewey and I. 33 l tiis fog," and then the French boy laughed so heartily that he fell on the oottom ot t: i nearly crushed the life out of :ttered and then barked defiance at the Bl those impudent fellows a shot : > -ard gang- some one from the quarter deck exclaim, ;. me, if th; man di-i . the order I one, for the i L mus- heard, and a ball struck the water not more than three fathoms from our boat, and Lcwey uttered a yell as though he had been hit, and groaned in the most pitiful manner, while Jack howled in symj cried some officer from ihe ship-oi ve n t life enough left to answer you," i you badly hurt, poor fellows ? " and there was a to: in the officer s voice, at the same time we heard a cutter lowered by tin: run. " Hurt ? echoed Lewey. " Ve tells you dat you could not hitde side of de barn of de door, and now ve knows it." i impudent vagabonds. If we only lay hands on you we will show what we can do," came in threatening tones across the wat- doubt the spe.V >iacere in what he said. p quiet, I whispered to Lewey. "One of the ci . the water, and pulling in search of us." We jumped to our anchor, and run it up, but just at that moment Jack commenced harking, and before we could quiet him our \as re* vealed. A boat dashed alongside, a midshipman and ten men looked us all nd appeared much astonished at what the\ " Who in the devil s name are you ? the officer as entender," we answered in Spanish, meaning that we did not stand him. .1 that," was the midshipmi Are no ins, I know." " I arlez vous Francais ? " askc: itli an innocent smile. " I 11 break your heads with a stretcher, if you the next threat, and then I looked at the young offio : time, and saw that he was an old schoolmate, the .ame one I ha e was a tached to the Ceynne, and on the coast years before. " Whv, r,o!>. oM fellow, how ^oes it?" I asked, as I recognized the midshipman. no\v grown to be a manly \ . .\ith a little down on his upper lip and chin. Tie stared in amazement at my impertinence, and the next instant we were shaking hands, like good friends as we were. Ltwey and I. 1 horn, old boy, who in the deuse would have thought of seeing you here?" he dem . So you are the one who has l pranks on the old frigate Cumberland and Commodore Sloat ? Won*". h dress you down when he sees you? Oh, no, I guess :.ot. " Let us slip out of this, Bob ? " I pleaded. "Can t do it. You must go on board and face the music. Out with the oars, men, and take the boat in to\v. \Ve.l, well, t<, think we should meet nse fog, is one of the marvels of th.- age." >," I asked, "are you very anxious for the safety of }our sturdy ship?" "Yes, she is a staunch old craft, my home, and I love her like a moth " Then you had better hail, and tell the skipper to come to anchor, or he will be in trouble with this flood tide and light wind. The midshipman looked horrified at the idea of my calling his captain a " skipper, but he waited until the leadsman called out, vuuterless s even, and then hailed, "Cumberland ahoy." " Cutter ahoy," came back in ringing tones from the frigate. " The fishermen are Americans, and recommend that you anchor until the fog clears up. They know the harbor well, and think the tide is setting the ship too far in shore, and it is not safe to find the anchorage until the weather is clear." . ay. Bring the fellows on board, and let us have a look at them," came from the frigate. " Fellers,* muttered Lewey. u Your skipper has de politeness not much. Ve is gentlemen of de leisure, and fish for de fun of de ding, and vot plata ve gits." There was the piping of boatswains whistles, it was dew up and clew down, and then a stern voice called out, * Stand by the anchor." " Put your helm hard to larboard," was the next command. (If nautical men are inclined to find fault with the term "larboard," they wii recollect that the word " port " was not officially introduced into the r.avy until Bancroft was secretary, when it was used to prevent confusion. This was about 1847, when Polk was president of the United States.) " Let go the anchor," was the next order, and the huge piece of iron 1 :> the bottom, and the chain rattled out. and the people on shore ihat a ship hud arrived near the town, while Mr. Larkin sat on his Lewey a> 333 .nd wondered ii t -Is had cornt at last, and ii it was _;ii and be< - Kor giacious sake, Thorn," crictl the midshipman, " what prompted you Hc. ; aile the culler was towing our boat alongside, ..nchored. I -c-ncli inend here and myself thought of marrying . of course the midshipm -is a mat- , men all grinned, ai i had uitcred \vas singular in your tastes," the midshipman muttered, ippose you desired to be plural in your habits, but that remark M no one smiled, as it was not understood, consequent \ my o, hurled uve at the head of the and told him to keep stroke, and mind his eye. t the frigate loomed up through the fog, and, as 1 two tiers of guns, in all a u n very ! UMY/ OO4 ur those days, and her c t of fired, as the middy informed us. ir fun commences," whispered the officer. "Comm will ivc you a dose of pepper. see if he doe-, n-.t. Keep A commodot a man in the .dthough much .it home. Here we go. In 1-ow. Way ongside, and many wondering eyes were on us as I <>ver the steps, the French lad with an expression on his face with all this attention, good peo ;ie commodore deaires to see then possess that friend of mine, for he ran back to the gangway, looked do-.vn at our boat, and yelled out to the midshipman who s on board, 14 De poiss I) not if you please de men let to c to lose. Vc sell all for four cents de pound, I !- big von for de commodore at half price, for trade allow Ther rror depicted on the faces of the officers of the quarter-deck, Trench fn< be put under arrest, and fed on .: he looked so simple a .t. just as he had no idea of oii^iu...^, 4uU tMd for no one, that ht wa only Lewey and 7. pulled away from the rai! by gentle pressure, and told in a hoarse whispci to stop his noise, and go aft. cap en," the enthusiastic French lad cried to a third lieutenant, who blushed at being so saluted, "you vill our fish vatch ober for us, and sell him you vill de moneys all gib to me, and 1 skall be so much obliged as eber vas ; for I is a poor boy, and far avay from mine native land." 11 you go aft, you blanked fool ?" whispered one of the lieutenants, "and if you do not stop talking until you are spoken to we 11 pitch you overboard whh a round shot tied to your feet." " Qu est ce que vous voulez? " demanded the unblushing Lewey, but the lieutenant only shook his head, and pushed the French lad toward the commodore, who was all swelled up with offended dignity, having been kept waiting two or three minutes, owing to Lewey s desire for fun and frolic at the expense of the United States naval officers. " Take off your hats," some one whispered, but my friend pretended not to hear, so his sombrero was removed from his head by an officer, and just as the commodore was about to open his mouth that wild boy went off on another tack. " O cap! tan," he cried, " mine dog in de boat is. Vill you tells de mens net to steal him, as much value he is." " Well, I "m blanked," muttered the commodore. " Who in the devil s name are you? and where do you come from?" " Me poor French boy," was the reply. " Me leaves home for de fortune to seek. Speak you de booful French, capitan ? " There was a negative shake of the head from the commodore. Vi, you like him so much. Skall I speak some for you ? " "Take this parrot away," roared the commodore. i4 He will drive me crazy with his lingo. Come here, you other boy. Let me see if you can answer questions in a ship-shape manner." I stood before the commodore, not in awe, for I had seen bi;:-_er men, but determined to no longer provoke the officer, for his patience had been already tried quite severely. 4; Who are you, sir ? " askc-i the autocrat of the quarter-deck. " I am an American, and at present a fisherman of Monterey, sir." i beach comber," was the retort. " I did not state so, sir, and fear that I am not up to the standard of > person who passes his time on the beach, in search of a ship and a job, ana hopes never to find either," I saii , Levuey and I. 1! how came you here, if you arc an American ? demanded the com : .irged from my ship, and expected to mar: .y candid answer. Of Co .;r>e I knew that all the officer* wou .d lau-h. 1 hey saw th re smile, and followed suit. It was the usual custom. \cre the next blunt words, just because I h eing married. . but a fool would not have asked you ; rs, and shoalin , >mcnt, I you." ! you the one who hailed the frigate for that purpose modore. >." <ult us and provoke a shot ? " French friend is a litil; loco, and not responsible for his He does not k:io v what he is doinij half the time." ;k me if I did n t think so." was the exclamation. " I can always tell a cra-ty man. He is as mad as a march hare," and the offi. - confirmation of the words. ,iid the commodore, and he looked profound and seri kno v of affairs on shore ? In what part of the country is C : nt ? " " He was near Monterey a few weeks since, but left fo: icisco _ found that an attack was to be made on his position, which , ; s the force of the Mexicans on shore -omcthinjj I cannot answer you, comm >Ute an oath." - both of you positions on the ship, so thcj Tell all you know. How many guns does the presidio com- "Not many, but you will have to find out k. (icr. and the American consul have been expecting you for weeks, and ; are prepared lor your reception. 1 "Can you take a note on shore for Mr. Larkin from me?" the officer aVed. " Yes, sir, but it would not be prudent on our part. We should lose the Dumber of our mess if we did so." Lewey ana I. rotecl .. \vastheassuredstatement. .ild n<-t keep the point of a sharp knife out of our ribs the first dark ni^ht," 1 answered. erhaps not, but we could avenge your deaths." " That would do us no good. We prefer life to revenge, sir." " M i are right, but it seems to me that an American should akl .in try in everyway possible." ;iat aid can a boy afford to a large frigate like this, full of men, and capabl ing every fort on the coast? No, sir, we have prom tr.il, and we desire to keep our words. Even now. if it was know; oarded your vessel, we should be looked upon as sospecho- y. Let us go on shore, please, before the fog .ie and undiscovered." ." the officer said, and waved his hand. "lint if Mr. Larkin should learn the Cumberland is near we should not feel ungrateful. Do you understand? " r. He will hear of the event, it is quite probable, before sun- :id touching my hat I left the quarter-deck, and joined Lewey. Hie French lad had negotiated the sale of all of our fish to the purser for the ward-room officers, and received four dollars for the catch. We took the bearin-js by the compass, entered our boat, and pushed off for the Point of Pines, and guided by the roaring of the surf made < ur v.ay to the usual landing. As we hauled up our boat we saw Mr. Larkin sitting on a rock, near the gully by the presidio, and apparently quite content to wait until the fog had lifted and revealed the beauties of the bay. " Well, boys, what luck?" he asked, as he came toward us and looked into the cmMy boat. i much today, sir. The fish did not bite very lively," we answc " Perhaps the ship that recently anchored in the bay scared them a the American consul remarked, as he examined the boat, and saw the of a good catch. " Should n t wonder if such was the case, sir," and we turned the boat over, and washed all evidence of fish from the bottom and thw.i: "Look here, boys," the consul said, in a low, confidential tone, so that no lurking spy could overhear his words. M what ship is that which recently anchored off the Point of Pines and is still obscured by the fo^ ? " ed around. No one was near us except a soldier of the presf- as on duty, and watching the fog and our proceedings at the same time. and T. " [1 gate Cum . _- been on board of Y ..->. s.r. We were requested to do so, and the polite command was backed by a cutter and eleven men." 11 And von musket shot dat came near us," interrupted the irrepressible I nder the circumstances we went on board," I continued. .Is all our fish for four dollar," my friend remarked. A good price," Mr. Larkin said. " I am glad that you did so \v jeli nv, i ids, did you not bring on shore a letter from the commodore?" N-i. >.r, we did not dare to, for fear of suspicion. But you will hear dip in the morning, or as soon as the fog 1: I; ii rjuite probable," was the short answer, and Mr. Larkin walked irard his house, near the plaza, and once more took his accustomed seat on the \ md looked off toward the bay and the fog, and even hummed ;olly character, when no one was near him. The sentinel shouldered his pi: :med his monotonous rounds, e consul d ired, and two Mexicans came out from a little > near the beach, and moved toward the custom house, on the re blulf. r,t \ had seen no exchange of packages, and therefore were a 1 We had noticed the men when we landed, and k: wer< ons, but they . -.c operation. 10 fish fa -^mers th. d some of were a little disappointed, a the Lenten season, and : n by the priests for the time being. We pleaded that tl tribe were driven off by the fog and a shark, and the answer satisfied them. , we promised an abundance for the r.< \ we reached our home for the time being, and inquired of Donna Costello the whereabouts of her brother, the colont ttcd to ! he had ridden over to Santa Cruz to review some -d would until the next d .iy. W -, mted to do the officer a good turn, get him out of harm s way, and perhaps capture, for we knew the t would have to surrender as soon as the Cumberland anchored near the presidio, and brought her guns to bear on the place. There was no force lo stand before the ship, as the cannon of the f to much, except in the way of ornament. But one thing remained for us to do i would repay all the colonel s acts of kindness, and that was to give him warning at once to keep away from Monterey, or move his men out of harm s way. Lrwey and 7. We had not ridden our mustangs for several days. They were in thj corral, and impatient for a run. Telling the pretty little wife \ve weregoit.g Mllop along the beach, and should not return until late at night, we saddled our horses, slung our riiles over our shoulders, and started for Santa Cruz. \e struck the hard, white sand the tide was fast ebbing, and there lear course after passing the re.nnants of a wreck about a mile from the custom house. We halted for a moment near the landing, and looked off upon the water, still covered with a dense fog. There was no sign of the Cumberland, and not even the creaking of blocks or spars, or the pipes of the boatswain s whistles were heard. All was silent, and no one would have suspected that a ship with six hundred men was so near us. This quietness was maintained through the strict discipline of the crew. The order had passed for repose, and it was obeyed to the letter. Even the sails were not furled, as they might be needed as soon as a little air should come along, and blow the fog away. A surprise was intended for General Castro and his troops, and it would have been successful had we not fa vored a friend, and the latter saved his countrymen from shot and shell, and a surrender. " Alons," said Lewey, and just as we were ready to start oar horses into a long and untiring lope four cavalrymen broke through the fog, and rode toward us, lariats in their hands. " Parada," they said, and we halted on the instant, for we had no occasion to run away, and there was no show for us with those reatas ready to be thrown with deadly precision. " What is wanted, amigos ? " we asked as the men came toward us and looked us over. " The general is anxious to know where you are going," one of the men %i He noticed today you caught no fish, that you had a long conversa tion on the beach with Mr. Larkin, and he does not understand your move ments. He dislikes to think that you are sospechosos, for he has a high opinion of your good qualities and bravery. But these are trouM times, and we must be guarded." " Tell the general and may he live a thousand years, and enjoy the best of health that we are taking a ride to Santa Cruz, just to see our friend Colonel Fernando, and to exercise our horses." "You are sure, amigos?" asked the non-commissioned officer of thf squad. " Quite sure, comrade/ was our positive answer. Lewey and I. 339 10 objections t ; ^s jf m > c " niW< hood, and bravest of marincros ?" the offic associates go with demanded, and iew they ", a sent to watch our move- . do. .mch pleasure sh.i.l we join you. We have nothing else for c! and a long gallop will do us g > i. Van , senors." .t up their lariats, coiling them on the pommels of their saddles, . and | : the hard sand as fast a- to in the fog, al- thou ^se at the edge of the water as in Our horses were v; nuch superior to the cavalrymen s that we could have run away from them, but did not care to do so. U\- had n > desire to hosos, for our lives might have been l had no place I Uiere we would have been safe, just at that time. So we did ivit hurry the pace, and therefore were two hours in reaching Santa Cn: passed the old mission I saw my friend the padre, and topped to exchange a f with him and the hous -tter giving me a grin o! delight at the meeting. * The priest told us where we could find Colonel Fernando, and on rid to the spot indicated found him inspecting a company of raw recruits. He was much surprised to see us, and also to find that we had an esr "Colonel," we siid, " we have ridden this way to see you pcr> these gentlemen did not believe us, so came along to note if we spoke the truth." the men belonged to the colonel s regimen*, they did not :i he said in a stern tone, ese senors are my friends. I wi .l be responsible for them a- actions. Return immediately to Monterey, and report to C m\ The soldiers saluted, wheeled their horses, and were off, back to see if we were noting their movements. ; nv, senors, what is the news?" asked the colonel, i ortancc has happened, or you would not seek me here. fare or that of nv. - u c al hc * c.<: " it is for your good tint we have com- Communicate must be a secret between us. This you will pro Vet, quite readily." " Look of! upon the bay, colonel. --nsc EQf. He glanced toward the ocean, and nodded hif head. Lewgy and /. Under that fog, colonel, and near the Point of Pines, is a hue Yankee frigate. As soon as the mist rises she will be in position to threaten the town, and compel its surrender. We want to save you and your dear sister. There is no time to lose if we would do so." 41 Diablo, I should think not. Our presidio will not stand a broadside, and my regiment might be made prisoners-of-war ; and just as I had got it in good order, and feel my position and importance. Honors, you must return with me to Monterey. -My soldiers will march tonight. To you can be entrusted the care of Donna Costello. Her husband does not know enough to have charge of a pretty wife in such doubtful times as these. I shall go into camp near the Mission Carmel. Your Yankee friends will not dare to follow me there. I only wish they would. I d cut them off root and branch. There, don t be angry at my words. Our nations arc at uar but we nre not. Let not the sound of strife destroy our friendship," and the gallant young man held out his hand. "And you came all this distance to give me warning, did you? " the colonel asked, "and General Castro sus pected you of some treasonable design ? He would doubt his own mother in war time. A little impulsive is the general, but he means well, and can fight hard with pronunciamentos. In fact, he can Hog the wi.ole of your nation with a dozen. But let the horses have a breathing spell, aud we will return to town." \Vc \\cnt to the mission and had a bit of bread and an olia, fed our horses with a little barley and at four o clock were on the road to Monte rey, the good prdre blessing us as we rode away from his house. I never saw him again. The fo^ still hung about the bay, but no sound was heard from the frig- wc dashed along the beach. The colonel was to go immediately to nl as he turned to d il in a warning tone, " You will not mention the source of your information, amigo ? Runein- i> r I am an Americano. i of me. 1 shall set you ri-ht in t i.il s estimation. r the imjM oo. Yoif nu-, and . ] -n." vent to our quutt | Jit, but did not r.ine oV! was a iI-Hiel at the head of his regiment, n \ C,\\\\\\ or trumpets, .10 government oluVials. Old Cook rubbed his the matter was, and Mr. Larkin sat on Leivfy and /. 341 his veranda and looked across the bay as far as the fog would permit, and i the mist would rise. cnor Costello went with the governor the protection of the wife and child devolved upon us, and the duties were will iht but that we should look after her in a satisfactory mann- she had implicit trust in our ability and courage to defend her against out- ,s and Indians were more to be dreaded than the Amcri- ._ had no doubt the captors of the town would resj who did not bear arms, and offer to fight for the glory of Mexico. At ten o clock it was known to the worst class of the commun:: the soldiers and officials had gone, and left the place defenceless. Then stores were entered, and liquor sought in all directions. Old Cook concealed what he had, and shut up shop. Mr. Larkin disappear 1 of his house, and i looked across the bay. Lewcy and [9 and rifles, and sat near the door of Donna Co house, iu the dark, and heard the howls of the drunken brutes a waited for dawn, but before that came we ive from outrage the pretty little wife who i -ft in . nnd the life of her only child, the swe< < most an* it we had ever passed, and we th.r .une, and the i^onc, and out in the !. .nchor, the Cumberhml and Independence, with the An^ aks, and the risir. stripes as tliey floated in the light northerly breeze. And Mr. Larkin once m on the veranda of his house and looked across tht hummed all to himself, for no one was near him except an Indian woman, who had the re; I being a drunkard. Hut w h.vl to meet m \ 1 the flags were seen to gladden our he.i: y. CHAPTER XI. THE ATTACK ON THE HOUSE AND ITS REPULSE. EDWARDO SANCHOS ISA JUST FATE. THE RESCUING PARTY FROM THE FRIGATE CUM A WINDFALL OF GOLD. -TIM. BREAKFAST. A PRE DICTION. HOISTING THE AMERICAN FLAG AT MONTEREY. A LAST VIh\V OF rHE TOWN. UN THE MAKCH. TERRIBLE DEATH OF TWO WO.M. ..EDY EXECUTION. A NIGHT SCENE ON THE BEACH. A SURPRISE, AND AN ESCAPE. STRAY SHOTS. TT was fully ten o clock before pandemonium in its worst form broke out * in the liiilc town of Monterey. Then the native rum began to exert its full force, a id tne peons and half-breed Mexicans rushed through the streets in scorch of plunder and outrage. All of Donna Costcllo s servants had fled from the premises, and no one but Lewey and I were left to pro tect the house and its precious inmates. We closed and barred the door, put out the lights, and sat near the entrance, with our firearms all ready for use, dr i attack, yet not disposed to shirk one should an assault be made. At one time we were inclined to put the lady on a horse, and escape to the mountains , but the sight of the crowd of drunken wretches, as they yelled and howled around us, showed that it was not feasible, and we deter mined to remain, and do the best we could, the little wife half the time on her knees praying to the saints for protection, and begging we would not leave herself and chil 1 to a shocking fate. Luckily the lx>y slept through the tumult, and did not realize his danger, while I consoled the senora the best way that I could, and promised no harm should come to her if I could prevent it. A dozen times did the lady put her arms around my neck in the dark, \vhen the noise was the loudest, and press her cheek to my face, tremble, and shed tears of terror, but she t no more of the act than if I had been her brother, and I did not Lewey and I. even strive to kiss away the moisture that flowed from her dark, glorious eyes. I imagined it would be sacrilege to do aught but comfort her, and hope tor the best. It was near twelve o clock, we judged, when a a drunken peons stopped in front of the house, shouting and yelling, while some of them en tered the patio in search of plunder. They went through the cook-house like a tornado, but found nothing of value, as we had removed all the prop- erty that was worth anything to safer quarters. The scoundrels manifested their displeasure by a scries of groans, and then some one, who seemed U be in authority, or the leader of the gang, came to the door, and pounded on it in a threatening manner. 41 Cobardes, Americanos, * he yelled, " come out of the house, so that we can see your white faces, and feel of your throats. We want you for a par ticular purpose." Jack uttered an angry growl, as though he scented danger, but we quieted him with a word, and attempted to reassure the frightened lady, who was now certain that outrage was near. We made no reply to the demand, and it repeated in more emphatic tones, and s ill we re - -nt. \V :i you show your white faces ? " the fellow said, " or break in the doo; We hoped the gang would suppose we hail made our escape to the moun- ; . so declined to answer, but the fellows evidently k:, la the house, for the speaker again cried out, 44 Bring a piece of timber. We will batter do.vn the door, an 1 han.; the Americanos, and then do what we please with the won. I could feel Senora Costello shudder at the words, and she clur Closer to my neck, but I removed her arms, and whispered, 44 Go into your room, and be with the child. You must not ham; with tears and entreaties just now. There is to be a stru one, but we hope it will result in our favor. our succe She kissed my hand, and left me. Then we hear . patio, and knew that a piece of timber had been found, l.i >wn the door. L Ip de fust von vot enters dis room," rm. 1 the ominous click of the lock of his ritle, the f his pistols and long knife, as though he meant every shot to tell. Will you come out ? " asked the leader of the peons, a> sc*on as lie had the piece of timber all roady to use as a batte.in e Lcu cy and I. ten to us for a moment," my French friend said, in a determined \fe are well armed, and the first one who a room will die like a dog. Go away and leave us, or the worse for you. \Ve shai: ie premises with our lives." " You will find it different here from shooting unarmed men on the sum mit of the Sierra Santa Monica," the leader said, and then \ve knew whom we had to deal 14 It is Edwardo Sanchos, the younger brother of Antonio. an<! the scamp who attempted to ambush us when we crossed the mountains, on our j nir- >:TI Los Angeles to Santa Baibara," I whispered. " You remember, I hit him on the hand or shoulder with a rifle bullet, when he was attempt ing to throw his knife. Now he thinks his time has come to punish us." " It has if he crosses de threshold of de door," Lewey muttered in a reso lute tone. you yield ? " asked Sanchos, after a moment s cessation of ties. , we will die first," was our defiant answer. .vn with the puerta," was the command, and the timber was raised, and dashed against the portal. The .*>light door was torn from its hinges, but we stepped aside, and .1 the crash, and the next instant a dozen men sprang forward to enter the apartment. " Gib dem de debil," rnaivoi Lewey, and bang went both of our rifles, and two peons staggered bick, and fell into the arms of those who were just be hind them, and we held the ruffians in check for a moment, and but for a moment. to," yelled S;uu:!io.;, the b it &." : \\.\rd, in obedience to or the voice and presence of a . and sprang full at the of the speaker, for we could see the ladrones stan < en us and the . hilc they did not note us very well with our backs to the adobe It wouM hive been short work with our dog, fi-? could have cut ily if we had not ii. ,-1 aimed at id. and let drive. The ball .^Ir-ick the ; nbled over ba . moved afterward, while ;;o more fight in his late ant/. sertcd j.it of a half breed e out whole fpouthfuls of cloth and flesh, and the f .-How s yells were as fearful as ti/e Lewey and T. creams of the peons in the patio, who were furious for vengeance now tli.it ^nellL d blood. >es for anuder von," cried Lewey, and as he fired there (all and a howl of agony. Then we poured in our two remaining shots, 1 our ri:^ ,1 at the heads of the nearest enemy, and crushed the skulls of all who were close to us. There was much hot work for a few minutes, and the result would have been fatal for us, overpowered by num bers as we i confronted with greasers inspired with artificial cour- e cr rum and a desire to be revenged on us for the death of friends, and also the thought that Donna Costello had money and jewels in ouse. One fellow made a hack at us with his heavy machete, but missed his aim, as we could see his motions, and he did not observe ours on account of facing the li^ht. The next instant the stocks of our lifles descended on the Mexican s ri^ht arm, the terrible weapon was dropped, and a yell of agony told that tl,-: limb was broken near the hand. \Ve could not retreat. Our backs were to the wall, and half a hundred undrels were confronting us in the room and the patio, and just as we were almost ready to despair of beating back the crowd of fiends, we heard a loud cheer in the street, and then the shout of. rvay. Give the greasers a touch of steel, boys. Down the blanked scoundrels. Let em have hail Columl like command with a yell of delight, put in a few bl our rifle-stocks, and then there was a rush from the patio, the greaser* tumbled out of the house in headlong haste, only to be struck down with . piket and cutl.i-ses, and in ten minutes after the first there was no one present in the court-yard ex cept t . ;indcd, and half a hundred blue-jackets making merry ie expeditious manner in which they had scattered !>, and not lost a man in return. as soon a* possible, and then spoke to the officer in i ><!, who proved to be my old schoolmate Dob, a midshipman of the Cumber! 1 he asked, " was it a tight squeeze this time?" "The stiffe t little breeze we ever s.i vere-1. " A 1 more and we vhould have been finishe !. Never did we hear a more joyful cry thu in the En-lish lin u " I thought that would fetch em," chuckled the officer. " If ! charge the boys would not have understood me. SUnd still, you rascals. 89 Lewey ami f. Don t leave the ranks and hunt for aguardiente. Theie is none town." to the sailors, .ling restless fo? ires. the marines," some blue-jacket cried, ho said that ? demanded the middy, but no one responded to the .tion for reasons of his own. . )ou happen to be on shore at this time of night ? " I asked the "The simplest thing in the world. About six bells Mr. Larkin, the American consul, sent a despatch on board stating that the town was given up to pillage, and asking the commodore to land a party, and restore ord<-r if possible. There are two hundred of us scattered about the villau ve kept the greasers on the run ever since we touched the beach. All th inarched off at dark we had been given to understand, so there was not much of a chance for a fight after all, and perhaps it is just as well. ady. you villains, or I 11 break your necks as sure as you live. There is not a drop of rum in the place I tell you." "We is anxious for water, Mr. Bob," a veteran said. " We is parched . drink." S of fire-water, but you won t get it, now I tell you. Stand sti.l un til the marines come up, and show em how steady you are on land." 4i The sojers be blanked," was growled out, and then I whispered to the midshipman, tew bottles of aguardiente in the house. Let one of your :nen deal it out in gentle tots to the lads." "All right. Here, Williams, you act as purser s clerk, and serve out a tot of gro to each man, and mind your eye while you are about it. No splices if you please. I shall look after you, be assured." The cheer that followed this announcement could have been heard on ite, and away up the mountains. VvY furnished a lot of tin pots, the liquor, and a light. The men were re freshed after their fight, and then wanted another scrimmage, in hope of i ^ more rum. / asked Bob. "what are you doing here? Is this your home S for the present. We were trying to save from outrage a lady who has been very kind to us." y ? " " Very." . and I. " Let me get a -limpse of her. I have not seen a petticoat for months, and long (or the si-lit of a sweet face." . ere arc too tiuny dead bo lies lying around loos-. agreeable to a young woman. Come in the morning, and you shall luv. r introduction, if the lady does not object to seeing a Yankee off: ought not to, after all of our efforts to save the place. Hut, by .here goes the bugles. We are signaled to form on the , > soon as possible. Come, muster in line, men, and pro. re to rejel >u go to the starboard. Stamp along ut for breakers, and tii- i at the same time, that you know how to inarch as will a t the jolly blue-jackets, joking ar. kcd sume drunken hall-breed with their board :ng-pik fc an who was a in le loo obtrusive. . as ihe sailors had departed I pushed open the door and entered the room where Donna Costello and her child were concealed. Tlu i praii ig :iie saints in thanksgiving i"i-r her escape : /.! and outrage, ami the little boy was sleeping q>i.etiy, not having 1C night, through all the tumult of the light and riot. > passed. Tiu V . whom you pro. to despise so much, came to our assistance ju>i 1:1 :ime, and put the :es to flight." and put her hands in mine, and then askorl, --.I if you and your friend had not defended tha tore they cam* B could, dear lady, until t up her lips and kissed me, so great \- i-r t.i lie down ami Then I left her, and joined Lewey, who, with the a : the Ixxlies of the dead. ked villain vill nebber harm us more/ 1 he said, ns he s nr !,. iik o Snnchos, a ; me. ed the lx)dy as he spoke, and a cl >re open the breisl of the d< [ belt Jed that passed completely around the bo ! his krn> tin- la-! severed the buckskin, and when i: was loosened a number of S :bloons dropped to the floor. "Di* vill us pay for dis night s vork," the French boy re n. Lewey and I. counting the coin we found that there were just one hundred gold pieces, representing a value of about seventeen hundred dollars. This was a great surprise. " Him heirs vill see dis not," Lewey said. " Ve vill keep it to remember de dead," and then we put the money out of sight, thrust the bodies of the peons and Mexicans into the patio, rigged up the broken door, spread our blankets, and lay clown for a little rest befort daylight, as the town was now quiet, and the sailors and marines had full possession of the place, the peons and ladrones having fled to the mountains, following in the wake of the army. It was not a refreshing slumber that we courted, but we did get a few winks of sleep before sunrise. When we arose and looked out on the plaza we saw the sailors and marines lying down on blankets, and sentinels pacing back and forth, and a boat-gun in the centre of the parade, all ready for execution, while on the veranda of his house sat Mr. Larkin, looking across the bay at the frigates Cumberland and Independence, the latter .jring ihe night, and at the peaks of both ships floated the American flags, and at the main of the first-named vessel was the broad pennant of a commodore. I fancied that I could hear the American consul, as he welcomed the sight so dear to his heart, hum a light and agreeable song, and thank God that the days of anxiety were passed, never to return as far as Monterey was concerned. We hunted up several peons, and compelled them to remove and bury the dead, then found one of Donna Costello s cooks, and made him prepare breakfast, the nest that could be obtained, and when all was ready I wont in search of my midshipman friend, and invited him and several officers to come to the house, and satisfy their hunger and thirst with an olia and a cup ;ee. Very glad were they to accept the offer, but Donna Costello not meet them, as she was too patriotic to break bread with the ene mies of her country, even if they had saved her life the night before. Sl.c was a true descendant of the Spanish race, and could neither forgive nor forget when all d as passed. The naval offr.-rrs were very polite, and made no unpleasant remarks about the 1 -nee. They asked us to give their regards, and say how pleased they should have b-. en to meet so beautiful a woman, and treated Lewey an 1 myself as equals, for my friend Bob, the middy, had en- lightened his messmates as to the French lad s position, and my own, and they looked upon us as two cracked-brained young men, \\ho were seeing Lfwey and / !ing adventures which others more sensible would have avoided. The town was now quiet enough. A guard was placed near the residence of the American consul, but no further disturbance wa-. anticipated, a: o clock the sailors and marines were withdrawn fro: : \ re turned to the Cumberland, and from the quarter-deck of the frigate was heard the sound of martial music, and the stirring notes of the " Star Span gled Banner," attracting hundreds of people to the beach and custom house. But the better class of Mexicans did not show themselves, and the pretty senoritas kept within doors, and seemed to care nothing for the band or the officers. During the day Senora Costello received notes from her brother and Kus- band. They had heard of the tumult in the town the night before, and con- ed the place no longer safe for a young, unprotected woman. They -ed her to join them at or near the Mission Curmel as soon as possible, and our friend the colonel made a personal request that Lewey and I would charge of her, and see that she reached the lines of the Mexican army ifcty. We could not refuse compliance with such a delicate demand, d the day in getting ready for the journey. We hunted all through the town for a carriage, but not one was to be obtained. The >een taken by Senora Castro the night before, when her hus band made his escape, and was miles away, so the only thing we could sug- to place the lady on horseback, and thus travel to the mountains, for one so gentle could not walk over the rough roads with a her : Our sweet friend did not object to the arrangement, but as there w le in the country it was a little doubtful how is the lady declined to adopt m.. is*.-. We t.ilked the whole : . saddle, broad and strong, which Mr. LarlJu . he learned our purpose. We covered it with som-. .i stirrup for the lady s foot, found a br service* :ap on the forward part of the Jit the thing would answer the purpose very we! our work to Senora Coatello she was s<> t that she ha- 1 no \\\ cending or descending the mountains. Then we hun: that would not be likely to play any unruly yranks, and c ,!a Lcwey and /. without a bray of discontent. As we did not know who owned the borrico we tonriscaied him in the name of the government, ana were never prose cuted for mule stealing, as General Castro and Colonel Fernando gave us imme-.ILue absolution, as soon as they learned ail the circumstances of the ared we looked after our horses the night before we were to start, and at sundown wandered to the bL-ach, sat on the rocks near the custom house, heard the bands on the frigates play national airs until nine \ listened to the music stealing across the waters of the bay, a feeling of homesickness came over me, which my friend was not slow to perceive, for he said, " Come, let us back go, and sleep good for de night. All de best fun of our lives is soon afore us to be. Ve skall see Anita and Engrac5a,and tell dem vot ve has passed through for dere sakes, and dey vill pity us and love - I) * jrou know, Lewey," I cried, as we rose to go, " I begin to think that fate is a-uinst us, and that we shall never marry those half-breed Mexican Darn if I care it ve don t/ the fickle-minded French lad replied. " I i to dir:k dat dey is not our equals in de life." you would break your pljdged word?" I demanded, quite *>te i ; u Vv nor ? Dey vr.uM do dame dings us for." :-." I answered. "They love us too well for that. They wouM re main true for years for our sakes." " How little kno .v you vomen about," Lewey said. " Dey thro A- ober us for belter and richer men in von minute and a half. Do dink you, mon ami, d it ve has much moneys now. Ve has two doiisand dollars, all ii. a-1 for two young men to life com nth. Me- .,f vives anyvay? Ve is free now, an- , ve vants to, and vot mon d.. : will oo to the girls, and tell them that you have changed ? " 1 inquired. . I don t knov vot I viil do, D.irc is tlm* cnou-h for all dat ven ve con , let us horror. Alons, ve has a b ; - future afore us," ai.d just then we came across Captain Cooper, of the schooner rnia. I :red your fl "I re- m.irf- "The odds were too great again*! !he reply, with a vicious bite and /. f his maimed hand. " Man to man we could have licked them, but the uns did the business. However, the vessel is private property. I se er several days since for debu She will be restored to me, 1 think," ar.d he was, by the commodore s oni >.ilt passed on, grumbling, and we returned home, ar had sheltered us for so many v, ussed some very happy hours, and many anxious ones. \Ve wc.e u\, : :: 3 il and early, got UK r Senora Costello and i for ourselves, packed what clothes the ut o hot un, fastened \i[) the house by the aid of hammers and nails, and at nine -: <- "a!;. Med out across t! assed i he ho. ; American consul, where Mr. Laikin was seated on and at the two li the old gentleman think of - tell, sir. We do not know where v, >, or what we n ; ins o.?e you a debt of gratitude for your heroic services the ;ht. 1 luve sent a note to General Castro, and detailed them mong other tilings. The American governmen: indebted ! will be light." >:\ the strength of it, I wish there would be D .i 1 <r else the government should* tweir ; >ie* of this book, | them, as a slig .t ilorni.i. were ab.-ut to m at a see the t. a straw som!>rero on :th a child in her arms. It wa a wonderful spectacle, and caused Senor.i Costello to bli w.ir<i moment, boys. - ... !. and we held up to hear his ** D month it is ? " 1 the run of such thlg." o seventh day of J , (or it wttl live iu Liiory " Way so, sir ? " Lewey and /. in a fe\v hours Commodore Sloat will hoist the America:, near the custom houso, and take formal possession of California, and afier the flag is raised t i lost forever to .Mexico. The stars and stripes will not be succeed . i live long enough you may see this great ten: iag with life and industry, with we ilth and con tentment, prosperity and happiness, and so it will grow until people wonder at the enterprise and intelligence of its inhabitants, and from all parts of the world will commerce come to us, our harbors teem with life, and grain grow on every hill and in all the rich valleys. Then will California be blessed, and may I live long enough to see it." " He is crazy, muttered Lewey, as TVC resumed our way, but I thought there was method in his madness, and his prophecy came true sooner than he anticipated, but he lived long enough to realize some of his predictions, if not all, for he did not dream of the great railroad and steamship lines in those days, or the overland cars, and immense hotels, where all was once wild and desolate. As we turned from the plaza, and struck the trail that led to the Mission Carmel, I glanced back and saw the old gentleman still on his veranda, looking across the bay and dreaming of the prosperous days to come. I never saw him a^ain, but if his re r.ains are buried near Monterey I hope to have the melancholy satisfaction of j. lacing a garland of flowers on his tomb some day in the near future. \Vhat was he talking about?" asked Senora Costello, as we left the village, much to the delight of Jack, who commenced sniffing game in every bush, and was glac/ to be once more in the woods and among the " Of the future of California, lady," I answ "There s n-i future for the State," she said, as a tear dropped from her ;t eyes. " Under the rule of Americans life will not be worth much to the Mexican people," and she expressed the sentiments of all the better class of her race, and perhaps even years have not removed the impression that the Yankees are intruders upon the soil. As we gained the elevation near where now stands the Hot 1 del Monte, we ;-i fired from one of the frigates. We checked our animals, and . r the village at our feet. There were barges bein^ rowed to the shore, and in the boats : uniforms and many men. \Ye people assenr " vom horse, a ^iie national airs, the American fl ! hi^h above the heads of the spectators, and then the war-ships thundered forth a salute, and the State Lewey and I. 355 of Califo: .nexed to the Union in deed if not in act, for our people had been :i too ma:. up the prize af- . .iiid it is worth some of the can war, for its future will U ; -n \\cnderful. " I v...: bed the scene, . remarked with a smile. vit I do n .-j response, ami she extended her hana, nd I pressed it reverentially to my lips. . terey no more, although ; from the place quite often \\hile \\e re mained on the coast. pushed our way over the trail, the sun shining hot upon rur heads, and before we miles from the vil!.. Med upon some cut! pickets, who cl -i\ rode forward to ask tin- knew who we were. not express si:- for they expected their colon t remain in Monterey, and run the risk of i)-.-i. ,^ insulted by t -iid not tl irk tl at c protection of American officers than the : f the lower order. \Vo were hurried forward to headquarters, and then cci .< the presence of General Castro, while Scnora Costello was taken by her husband and brother, and made .ible in U : the latter. The Mexican governor was anxious to learn it It when I t)-nt the ould interfere with his ; erey, and determined to tu: to the southern jarttf the is in no hast- i d to k hi.n, an .car the Mission for several rays, and In the me.intinv O-! , :le l Fernando an 1 the 1i ible servi - were thank <: icere manner. T gave us qu *it:> :ies and ; ! for the people, !>: : , could steal*all ve de- : of other men s property, and no one we wfi- >re clothed with full authority to take horses and cattle needed- Lewey and /. Oi >rm a lor when we were encamped n iine* Kiv while we were riding about l!. . we noticed a commotion in a clump of trees on the banks of the stream, mid heard loud curses in the English tongue, and hearty carambas in Spanish. When we rode up to the place we were much surprised to find our former supercargo, Mr. H. F. Teschem- acher, and Messrs. William Wolfskill and William Howard, gentlemen well known on the coast, engaged in an angry and excitiii.: :h some of our cavalrymen, the latter having seized the former s horses, and were about to lead tiiem oil, all anim.iis being confiscated by the order of Gener al Castro. We soon put a stop to the hot words, and the Mexicans to release the animals and restore them to their owners. Very reluctantly they obeyed, and then we escorted the gentlemen past the camp by a blind trail, and saw them safely on their way to Monterey. They thanked us for the service rendered, but we saw them no more while in the country. I doubt Mr. Teschemacher will remember the incident even at this late day, the only witness I have to prove my claim fora pension from both counts I hope he will live until I get it, and if he does the oldest man spoken of in the liible will be a mere infant in arms in comparison to t; friend when he dies. We moved in short marches to Santa Hail ara. Xo one was in a hi; for there was nothing to be gained by haste. Luis Obispo that so me kind of a Bear Party, composed rs, had met near San Francisco, and elected Captain Fr the State, but Castro laughed at the idea, and so did all tL. ,d it was soon forgotten. .cry day that we traveled I showed Senora Costello some polite atten tion, and looked after ail her wants. She found the mule and saddi- much more comfortable than a volante or ox-cart that she clung to the < veyance until Santa Barbara was reached, where she ru; the war. We passed the ranches we had stopped at on our way to M "id to the indignation of the rancheros levied on their stock : When at San Luis Obispo we once nv the Cave, and had a most gl- : to the want 1 facilities. We went to the hou > the fandango during our sailor boys 1 career, and laughed as we tho-:. ht >( i we had enjoyed ti On the eighth day after leaving Monterey we readied Santa Barbara, and the ; :.LV! out a; reception. As we rode by the house ^hter 01. . . wcl- t iu the rear < : Fernan- ad at the head of the column, I did not deem it e to take som ue enthusiasm to myself, and when the handsome young lady smiled and bowed to us I raised my hat, and did all that I co ract and she seemed amused at my persistei; : face, and Lewey growled out, " I s pose you s for you, but it is n t. She is lookin ri-ht at me all i!e Ifra i was no such thing, but my French friend ealous of the lady for some reason or other, fearing per : have the first place in my mind instead of him- ere were no ships-of-war in the harbor, and none had made their ap- s proposed to remain several rruit the men, and see what w.i 1)6 done, and where to go in was called for. We saw Mr. Robinson, and s; him and very much astonished he Was at the impor ; a time, for Senora Costello did not hesitate to ion as to our conduct, and praise us more than we deserved. TV particular in his commendations, and thus, ir the se of a day or two, I was formally presented to the Sen* never knew me as the sailor boy who had admired her so much connected with the Admittance, and in fact she acted just as he had never seen my face before, which was a great triumph for said, ells you so. No voman look at you twice ven I is n i.l not mean to be personal, for he was as proud of my succes of his, only he was a little jealous that I would like some one he disap proved of. The third day after our . had found is, we thought it about time to visit Ranch- and jjirls we had left under such di* ccs. not exchange a word with each other about ma; : : the topic by mutual consent, for somehovr, as we mixed with the people, and 1 gentlem fleet :o do before it was too late. one mor; should like leave of absence for a .ink \ou can run the regiment without ui," He smiled as ht said, 3$$ Lewey and /. "You are going to Ranche Refugio to see the girls ? " " Yes, colonel, such is our intention." " You will not obtain leave of absence from me unless you promise one thing," our superior said. "Oh, we agree to it," Lewey remarked, thinking that it was some trifling request. i y well. Then promise me you will not marry those half-breed girls until you have thought the matter all over, and consulted my sister and myself." We promise," Lewey cried, with remarkable promptness, and then we were told to take our rides and go, but to be very particular to avoid all bands of wandering ladrones, as some of them were known to be in the hborhood, and might attempt to injure us. We directed our peon servant to prepare our horses, and about nine o clock, during one of the most beautiful days of July, rode down to the beach, saw \he old familiar surf, and then shaped our course for the Ranche, from \\hich we were forcibly taken only a few months before. Somehow we were not so eager to reach the place as lovers usually are, and we loi tered on the trail, to the great delight of Jack, so that it was near twelve o clock when we stopped at the residence of the two pretty sisters, and begged for a cup of water. They did not recognize the smartly-dressed boys as their old friends, and we had to explain matters before we could make them comprehend who we were, and what fortunes we had met with since we saw them last. We claimed to be officers in the army, and \\ in fact, but the positions were merely honorary, and given just to afford us protection while in the country. We were invited ro remain and dine, but pleaded want of time, Icit the young ladies, and went toward the residence of Anita and Engracia. It would be unjust to say that we were not a little agitated as we drew near the poor adobe house we had visited so many times. We smiled as we thought of our previous reception by the mother of the girls, when we were eager for an interview, and how she had abused us for calling. We won dered if such a torrent of words would again fall upon our ears, and the question appeared to be promptly answered, for before a scant fire, but un der the hot sun, sat the very old unman we had been thinking of, the moth er of Anita and Engracia, and she was engaged in preparing an olia for her midday meal. The woman looked up as we checked our horses, and seeing two caballe- ros before her uttered some rude worda^si jwlcome. but we declined to dis- Lewty and I. 359 mount until we had some assurances as to the whereabouts of the girls, and acific disposition of the mother. u Where arc )our daughters, senora?" asked Lewey, in a bland and h their h jsbands to be sure," was the blunt reply, and at the words aiions of surprUe, and put our hands to our heads to i :o collect our scar.. .0 shock was a great i, I m M.mketl," the French lad said, in a dazed sort of manner, then he looked at me, and a sickly smile passed over his face, as he die] not know \\luit to say n 4 - This is \urnan s constancy," I moaned, and yet to tell the truth neither lelt like raving wildly over the matter. " How long have the girls been married ? " Lewey asked, after a moment s pause. " Just a month," was the prompt answer. " And whom did they marry ? " I managed to inquire. .anio and Carlos Sanchos," was i. ind then we were indig nant, for our fiancdes had united their fortunes to the men who cuted us during our residence in Cii 1 completed our humili ation by taking as husbands two of the worst scamps in the count: > us, r.iul Lewey ground his teeth together as he tho of the disgrace of being superseded by a couple of dark-faced, elderly ruf fians, old enough to be tS> fathers of their v. c you sure the girls are married ? " I ventured to inquire. like?" the woman asked, as she dropped the ;e of her chemise, and showed some terrible looki: > on he/ poor oM wrinkled bosom. "And wli.it do you call this?" bending her .and revealing a cut an inch and a half long on th her neck, looking angry and swollen. ,eems as though some one had ill-treat Lewey said in a tone of pity, all his former resentment gone at the sig: the injuries. " It looks as though my daughters were married, does it not?" the wo man asked in a sai 1 hese blown ere inflict- e saints preserve me," muttered Lewey, "but the Sanchos more courage than I supposed. How did they dare to altack her in such a reckless manner? " Lew.y and I. \ . then tli. _d up, bru . and looked at us. ve me, but are you the two nice young gringos who wanted to marry the girls sume time last spring? " We are the same I our prompt reply. ..,1 I spoke a little hastily, did I not?" 11, we should think you did. You called us hard nam prof 1 ; "Ah. how sorry I am that I wronged you. Had you married my daugh ters I should have ruled your households. Now, curses on the ladrones, uie me, and pound me it Uie fxxl is not ready. How little did I know what If. I h.id better have let the soui- of the; . alter the bodies, liut come in the house, and I u a 1 about it. \Ve - le building, and prepared to listen to the old ;Vct that D>)-i Antonio Sanchos had visited her one i! beture we had put in an a . or while we were j an i made such preposterous st.Uenu ..nil ludrones, that the woman got frightened, i.iytd upon the feelings of the j riest, and he put a I match, not knowing us or our condition, and it was not until the priest of Santa Cruz wrote to the padre of Ranche i plained. It was then too late. The girls h. k married through the their mother and father confessor, under the supposition th.it the ites for matrimony had plenty of money, and a huh official position, when, in fact, they were outlaws, and alter being <;i -ad of going to San Francisco, hurried to the Ranche :ther injuring us by taki <1 wives. .is be praised, it am all for de best," muttered Lewcy as the story was fin islr . <>rk in dc m<>>t myst-jrio is vay. as M>me von has said. I know not von. Ve has preserved de honor of our names, and it am all light," and just as he spoke Anita and Kngracia entered the room to see who had arrived. They uttered wild shrieks when they saw us, and threw up their hands. " Do not come near us. Keep at a distance, for we dare not speak or touch you," they cried, and then, woman-like, rushed toward us, put their ur necks, and kissed us as in days of old. Lrwey and I. 11 Oh, why did you come here when you know that we are manier!? Leave us at once before our husbands find you in the house, and kill vou, as they will do, :!s exclaimed. We were not so much afraid of the husbands as the girls seemed to think, although we did put our old loves aside, and unwound their aims from our necks. i have been untrue to us," we said, " but we forgive you. Your pun ishment will be great. You had an opportunity to marry two of the ;; men \\\ California. That chance you have thrown .. in a cool and manner. You can recall it to mind \sben you hear of our lame in years to come." i not modest, but we wanted a slight revenge for our humiliation. The Iris, or wives, were awe stricken at our words. We had im- pres- their minds that we were a little above their grade in life, and ..in to submit to all sorts of indignities for the it even while we wer thus c; re heard the sound .1 the next moment Antonio and Carlos Sanchos 1 the room, and the first thin^ the former did was to knock down the old an, as a slight relief for his over-charged feelings, and when she was ^ on the floor the curses she uttered against her amiable son-ir. the most wonderful specimens of the Spanish tongue that it was ever my rtune to hear. " What are you doing with our wives ? " the outlaws asked, as they laid .ands on their knives, and drew them. ire old friends of ours," the ladies said in a pleading tone. >ve only called for a visit, and will soon go." We spoke to the ladrones, the mean gringos," was the reply. " Let ver to make to your insolent demands," Lewey cried. " We know both of you scoundrels. There is a price set on your heads, so ocware tore. If the soldiers get on your trail there will be blood spilK-d. and you the vie:. " We will commence right here if there is blood to be shed," the men an- swered, and raised their knives to throw them at us. but the girls covered our bodies with their o-vn. and when the weapons whizzed through the air we did n.)t have a cliaiic: to draw our pistols, or use our rifle^ in self- defence, or even push the women aside, and save them at the expense of our own lives. Anita and Engracia clung to us, and when the knives sped 362 ~ Lewey and L on their way they struck the girls near their shoulder-blades, the steel penetrating to the lungs, and the poor things fell to the floor of the cabin, the blood ilowing in torrents from their \vounds. " Dogs of Mexicans, you have murdered your wives," we shouted, while the old woman made the house ring with her yells of horror and anguish at the scene before her. The brutes appeared dazed at the sight of the innocent blood that met their view. They made a rush toward us, but we struck them on the sides of their heads with the barrels of our pistols, and down they tumbled, and \-e were about to follow up the victory in a sure manner, we heard the loud blast of a trumpet, and stayed our hands, and the shots that would have ended the career of two noted villains were not fired, for in the door way we saw the form of Colonel Fernando, and back of him six of his men. .at is the trouble here?" asked the young officer. " Two women bleeding to death, and the Sanchos brothers on the ground with broken heads, and my friends uninjured. Well, this is a lucky day even if it is Friday. The saints be praised, I am Justin time to take an active part in this tragedy. Stop your howling, old woman. It will not prevent the flow of blood. Send the sergeant here. He knows something of knife wounds, for he has hacked people and been hacked more times than he has years over his head. Let him look at the girls injuries. Secure those ladrones, and take them outside. They have just fifteen minutes to live, so one of had better go for the priest. The girls will want some of his consola tion before a great while, or I am no judge of the near approach of death." \Ve oiiiM not realize that the colonel was in earnest, but some of the 1 cavalry commenced binding the limbs of the Sanchos brothers with reatas, and in the meantime we bent over the bodies of the dying girls, certain that they coukl live but a short time, as a change had already taken place in their faces, the sure precursor of death. " You forgive us for our unfaithfulness?" whispered Anita. "\\V meant to be true and good, but were pursuaded to marry against our wishes. \Ve thought that we should never see you again. Every one said you were bad and heretics. Hut it won t matter in the next world, will it, what religion We shall be near each other in spite ol" ties on earih, ana no one will part us. It is better as it is. You wouM have been ashamed of your dan: wife, and wished her dead, or mi^ht have left her to mourn for your lost love. You will kiss me, and say that you foigive mt foi the past, and if you live long think of the many pleasant hours we had te> Ltwcy and I. gether, before there were troubles in the country, and men did not persecute I kissed her dark face. She closed her eyes, and seemed to sail down fast, for she did not ugaiu look a*. grew shorter and shorter, and then a shudder passed through her .-! i, and she was gone to the great unknown world, and \vhcn she died her sister s spirit also fled at the same moment, so that in t! not divided. We covered the faces of the dead, and went out- ciossed the threshold of the building the priest \\as just cnier min ister the last rites of the church. He went to the bodies, kv- . and .md earnestly for the repose of the souls of UK , rls, and when he came out of the house Colonel Fernando was seated on a log, smoking cigarettes, as calm as the summer day overhead. " Holy father," the officer said, "administer the orient to those two men. As soon as you have finished they di 41 You will not dare to commit such an outrage," the had no trial, and are not yet proved gi: " Do your duty, holy father. In ten minutes they die, law or r. the stern command. The priest bowed his head, and made no further remonstrance. lie knew what military duties were, and how despotic commanders so; :ted during martial law. aid it be of any use for me to plead for the ladrotu Lcwey. >t the slightest," and the colonel lighted a fresh cigarette, .we no intention of asking for the lives of the said. " I only spoke for information," and the colonel out volumes of smoke through his nostrils, and playfully . in the air from his lips. The padre went to the condemned and knelt by their ; on the ground securely bound, the hot July si. upon their dark, swarthy faces, and with every expression of terror in their treach erous eyes. " Colonel," the priest said, after he had heard the last confession the fel lows were ever to make, "the poor men have a favor to ask of you. It is not a great one, and should be granted it seems to me." " Name it," and the young officer scanned the heavens to see h the sun was, and to judge cf the time ol . ^ .. .uch light he would ana A -,:c to get back to Santa Barbara. He was the most unconcerned person ><.-:i t, lor Lewey and I and the soldiers were more agitated than he. " These men who are about to die," the priest said, " desire to be spared DO that they can have time to attend the funerals of their dear departed . whose deaths were so sudden and unexpected." " Diablo," laughed the colonel, ** but I must tell this to General Castro when I see hitn. He is just the kind of man to enjoy such a joke. Here are two ladrones, who steal away these gentlemen s intended wives by falsehood and deception (I will admit that I am glad of it), and at last mur der them in cold blood, and now wish to attend the funeral of their victims. Well, this is a good specimen of impudence. It is the coolest thing I ever heard of. Sergeant, place the scoundrels in position against yonder trees, and give a volley to each. I have no more time to waste on them." The condemned uttered a howl of terror, and the cries of the men, th, wailing of the mother and other women, were enough to unnerve us, but the cavalry leader did not lose his composure for a moment. He smoked ci- garettes in numberless quantities, and paid no attention to the shrieks that were going on around him. The fierce little sergean . pounced upon the men, as though he rather liked the job he had undertaken. He dragged the ladrones to the trees in dicated, lashed them in an upright position, for the fellows did not seem capable of standing without help, so weak were they in their knees, tore away the dark shirts and jackets, exposing the hairy breasts, then stepped back and surveyed his work with great satisfaction, just as though he was looking at a picture he much admired, yet did not quite approve of the shading. "Pull his head up a little," the petty officer said to one of his subordU nates. " He droops somewhat, and I fear the men s aim will be destroyed. Ah, that is better. Now slue him around so that he will show a fair front. Punch him in the ribs if he don t move fast enough. Well that. It could not be better fora sharp volley. Don t howl that way, you loco. It looks to me as though you had no confidence in the saints or a blissful hereafter. In the city of Mexico I have seen ten men shot before breakfast, and all of them put together did not make as much of a row as you are doing. Con found you, shut up that groaning and lamenting. It is enough to make me sick. You don t seem to appreciate the honor of being shot by some <>f the best cavalrymen in California. What do you say ? Tell us al! to go to the not place. Why, you ungrateful scoundrels, now I don t care if my men do mangle you. Five of you form ia JUft^ad tako the fellow oa the right, and Ltwty and I. ii>e one on the left. Now then, aie you prc .ty comfortable ? fault is : ;tion, although I drea- . and at the same - amused at the i and .sergeant, who seemed to be enj- \ the ex- The colonel >ti!l sat on a stump, smok 1 ence at the delay. The scene reminded me of the Miido was simply a captain, and hanged a man on the route from Monterey for attempted murder. .el," said the fierce little sergeant, turning and mmander, with an eager look on his face. -ution, r remarked the young officer, a \ a fresh The sergeant threw a piece of blanket over the condemned men s he., stepped one side, removed his hat, and said, :iy sombrero fire, and don t throw away a .e a grin. I turned my head, and looked at the priest, who \\a pray- and about to die. There was an ,r the crack cavalrymen co . regularity, some terrible groats. i all was .v ycd silently for the dead, and the enemies of the d_ women i.. : tumbled down in all directions, and Jack, our :i his haunches, lifted up his head, and howled as though mourn . ing for the flight of two evil spirits to the gates of eternity, to trouble us no . .and the scene to the last. It seemed to have a strange nation u>r him, and the last time I saw him, just after the Fn , he ; .umstances of the military execution a 1 . .^io, and said that \\hilesome communists in Paris were being *hot. ;ts went back to his ear ind strangely enough the deaths of the two Mex- e uppermost in hi* mind, for some of the victims of ) ors :iy as Spaniards, and resembled the two S ., .roe .ind vindictiveness of disposition. 1) . colonel," reported the little black sergeant his hand, as though he had done a good thing, a >ud of it. 1 bundle them in. . One 1. will i | . f.>r botli. Senors t let us mount, and ride down to p.* ; young udies who av^Sfrftl here. Our escort can join us Lewey and /. I am tired of hearing these women yell and scream so loud. ind the colonel motioned to his orderly to bring up the h. : "Holy father," I said, as the colonel rode away, while L I lin gered behind to tike .1 urexvell look at the faces of the d. "if we bad known each other better all this might have been avoided, and tl men would now be alive and happy. -It is the will of God, my son, and destined to happen. We i escape the fixed rules of the universe, strive as we may. I am sorry, my son, for the past. Let us be more wise in the future. I wish that 1 had known you better. I should have been less preju hist you, 1 from what I have this day seen. Take my blessing and go." He raised his hands over us, and then was about to turn away, but I de tained him for a moment. " Father/ I said, " the mother of the girls is poor, is she " She is poverty itself, my son." " Then take these two golden ounces, see that the women are decently interred, pay for a mass for the repose of their souls, and le bal ance of the money to the parent. If you will do this we shall uoitgh we ha 1 made some atonement for the past." " The atonement for the past is in God s own hands, my son, and to him must all application for pardon be made. You and your friend should pray for forgiveness, confess, and strive to be better in the future, i > and thank the saints it is no worse. I may not speak J which the confessional holds as sacred, but of this be assured, tl s i.ildreu loved both of you devotedly, and it was wrong on your part to \\in their affections." " Hut we were honorable in our intended marr haps you were, but the poor girls would >oon lia-. ; from your neglect. Desertion follows incompatability. lould not mate. You can read and write e now i could do neither. They knew not the meaning of a singk and had no accomplishments except that of the <!: t we could have taught them, holy father, as much a:; we know our- selv - 1 . Such th n-rs ari n > . orld. As .itience nitli c.i-- -. other. As h )<- teachi- .up an- tions (or t!u purpose of unfolding I . If a lover is to be a teacher he mo*; be kept ifl the position of a lover, and not Lewey and I. . ored one at that. All interest ceases at marriage, and blessed is the can retain the heart and devotion of a man six months a union. The laws of my church forbid a priest to wed. The provision is a \\ise one, for if we had family matters to look after there would not be much lime for parochial affairs. Hut we see with open eyes all the domes tic relations of life, and so judge as we look, regretting, yet unable to apply ; t the best of advice, and that is rarely taken by either a cruel thing for two young senors like you to win the . Hut go, and God go with you." He ... aded his arms, and we uncovered our heads, and were blcs- then mounting our patient horses rode toward the house of the pretty sisters, and as we passed on our way saw a number of peons throwing dirt into a shallow grave, and the fierce little sergeant was ider the shade of an apple-tree damning them in no measured terms, and smoking cigarettes. We looked back and saw the good priest our departure, and when he saw us turn in our saddles waved his in token of farewell, and that was the last we ever saw of the padre or >und our colonel enjoying himself in the company of the two pretty sisters. One of the latter was thumbing a guitar, and singing a love song, while their military visitor did not seem in the least dismayed by the trage dies !-. nessed during the afternoon. nc in, caballeros," he said when we stopped opposite the door, and as we entered the commodious adobe house were formally presented to the cry gracious they were to us. We did not allude to the murders back of the vineyards, so there was no occasion for a cloud to cover thi nc faces of the girls. The colonel seemed to have : about the circumstance, if we could judge by the laughter he ^om? bottles of cheap native wine on the table, a tot of dark bread, and nice fruit, and after we had partaken of the rcfr ments the cu onel waltzed with one of the j^rls, and the other played \oung officer was a very good dancer, and entered into tho it of the movements with a z- i hj :n credit, but we were not in clined t.i I;.-, ami so declined the invitation to once i: : the in ovir arms as of iittle too soon to throw our grief to the winds, and forget the deaths of poor Anita and I : who might have been our v, .icumsUnccs bad been favorable for : Ltwey and I. Presen-.lv th- tram]) of horses feet and the clanging of sabres . that our esrort was at the door. We drank a glass of wine to and 1:. of thL- pretty sisters, kissed their hands in gallant mounted our horses, and left the place, and as we filed out of the ravine tood at the door of their house, waved their scarfs, and smiled a sweet smite at the colonel, whose haudsome face had touched their hearts, I have no doubt, for he married one of the girls some months later, when peace was c eclared, and had a bride that any man could be proud of. What became of tho older sister I never knew. I hoped she fared as well. We never . or the place again. " Colonel," I said, as we gained the mesa land, "how did you happen to be present just as we needed you most ? " -ors," he replied, with a blush and a laugh, "you are not the only persons in Ca,.iornia who have had love affairs on their hands. Soon after you left Santa Barbara this morning I learned from one of our spies that the Sanchos brothers were here, and had married your girls. I feared that you would meet with trouble at their hands, so determined to kill two birds with one stone, do a little love-making on my own account, and bring to justice the most notorious scoundrels in the country. General Castro au thorized me to seize the fellows wherever found, and shoot them on si-Jit. I have attended to mv duty, and no.v go back to camp with the thought that justice has been done." ur conscience do.vs not reproach you for the shooting?" I asked. The colon 1 .smiled. Scr. /;lier should be destitute of such a thing. He must obey orders no matter what they are. Vainos, 1 and striking his horse with his purs we flashed forward along the road that wound about the beach, and drew rein just at sundown, and as we dismounted Senora Costello came to war i have returned unmarried ?" she asked, as she smiled on us. " Our intended brides are dead," Lewey remarked in a low, sad tone. " I am glad to hear it," was the careless comment, and as the lady spoke ihe laid a hand on my arm, and said, ! you love her very much, my friend ? n " I thought so," was my response. "And n< ..- " Perhaps 1 have seen one whom I love better," and I sijjhe l as the liana was withdrawn, and the sigh was rc-cchood as the lady gathered her aark Lewey and I. \<\ entered the house, and I saw her no more tli.it night. ey exclaimed, " do not make de love to /Oman, and our admiration bring de ruin and ,ster on al! dat ve meet. Let but de sign be seen dat you is sweet on le life you has von t be voitli m ve her if you vill. von else. Imitate me, and be cold and distant." I looked at t -nan with admiration for his impudence, at. . our mustangs to a peon servant, for ael Fernando had detailed an Indian to look after our horses, and just as we entered the house where we were quartered the trumpets rang out a . and the young ladies of the town hastened to the .i, to get a -il commander of the cavalry, and to stri. teiuion by many a fan flirtation and flash of d . >pers in silence, then wrapped scrapes around our shoul !cd down to the beach. Jack started to go with i" the long run that lie had during the day, gave us at: sitatcd for a moment, and returned to the house, curl :f up on the horse-blankets, and went to sleep. We did not blame him for refusing to accompany us, but it was the first time such a :red. \Vc halted o|-;.o.-,itc Don Noriego s house, where many of the officers were co: J evening jte and m on, for we dil not care to join the company, our thoughts were too :>ed the beac in sand and looked off upon the bay and the rolling surf, and our ini n Is once more went back to our hide-droghing days and bo. ,. Neither of us spoke, and I have no doubt that Lewey s thox: were ir with the past, and all the strange, wild life we had \\it- e we left 11 this reverie we were aroused our .leeks a - icn the cold muzzles of ere point our IK you make the least noise I 11 blow your brains out. Ans-ver me a : :, in the coolest tone I could assum" mcing around saw that we were surrounded l.y half a dozen Yankee man-of , and that an officer was holdiu^ one of th pistolt ia clot proximity 37 Lewey and I. to my head, and a middy was paying the same attention to Lewey, who, in spite of the surprise, was still puffing away at his pipe in cool contempt of all danger, "do you not think that it would be better to converse in Eng lish. We should understand each other a little better." The devil," the officer said, and lowered his pistol, "do you speak English ? " " Well, sir, it comes more convenient than Spanish, as a general thing, far we make awful botches of the latter tongue sometimes, unless it is all plain sailing." " I thought you were greasers," the commander of the squad said. " You Are dressed in Mexican costume." "That proves nothing. We supposed the navy was officered by gentle men, and that they were not inclined to offer rudeness to people minding their own business. We were both mistaken, that is all." "Don t be impudent," the officer remarked. "We must take life and prisoners as we find them. We want your company for a few hours on board our vessel." " Indeed, and for what purpose ? " " Information which I think you can give. I suspect that you are an American," the officer said. " You have not mis-stayed this time. I am an American, and this gentle man, my friend, is French. Now what do you desire to know? We do not intend to leave the shore tonight to visit any vessel." " Do not be too sure of that, my friend," the officer said with a laugh. " We are strong enough to take you, and shall." " You are over-confident, sir. One word from us and you could not move two fathoms from the beach without being surrounded by cavalry, now you are hemmed in on all sides except the water, and cannot < unless you have the countersign. You can shoot us as we sit here, but that is not customary among civilized nations. Murder it would be called before a court-martial." it we can knock you on the head, and then take you," was the sullen rejoinder, "and I am not sure but we shall do it if you continue to give me any more lip." " De lip is not all on von y remarked, speaking for the first time, although he had m.v. rc.ik in fm minutes past. " Ve is gentlemen, and in iio v.iy li.ible to answer questions. I am, sir, de French consul for California, and dis is tie American consul, Mr. Larkin." Lewey and f. with amazen.ent at the audacit. officer could not well see our youthful I > the story was liable t<- .spercd in French. >u. Impudence must tell here, or we will be on board of a .in an hour, and then the saints only know what will become < ..-men/ the naval officer said, ;; ; ped back, raised his cap. -ced his pistol in a belt. I did not \ \ should have spoken in a different tone. Put i e I thought that Mr. Larkin, our consul, was at Monterey, his usual " So I was, sir, but a few days since. Official business called me here, and the French consul, Monsieur Lewey, who has just been landed from a line-of-buttle ship, wanted to see the country, so came to this place in my mention of a line-of-battle ship has a great influence on a naval of ficer. The stranger bowed lower than ever, as he said, Mr. Larkin. but this is the first time I was ever notified of a French consul being stationed on the coast. I suppose it is o: count of our war with Mexico." ft, on dat account entirely," hastily remarked Lewey. "My k me so hissclf." trong, and I wondered the officer did not disc- lie, but he might not have been up in court etiquette. tho- Louis Philippe of France held personal ii ; ,ves, and gave them instructions. .is comi please tell nv are cloin;: ashore at this time of ni-ut, and in a tile country ? Do you know that if discovered your life woul orth a me , have taken the chances, sir," was the ans-ver. -n arc wd 1 will sell their v dearly, or would resist captti ling a little about th< -.-, and so sent us on shore after dark. Our , l( j e of th -n P" nt Arena, and will :s we ; )\v we hope you will en- lighten us as soon as possible." Lewey and L "What is the name of your i I who is your commodore ?" I asked. Stockton. \\ho is ordeied to the su preme command of the squadron and the counti . 1 he ship is lyini: about four miles from shore, bound i en tered the canal this afternoon, and hope to be well on our way at day light." >k your official position, sir ? " I demanded, with a ca ference that I by no means felt, for if the man discovered the imposi tion he would have made it lively for us. irn the third lieutenant of the Congress, sir," was the answer, "and this is , ood, one of our midshipmen." ^ the mid ly, and then I said, irds to the commodore, and say how pleased he will be to meet him at Monterey \\hen he returns. R port that the frigates Cumberland and Independence are in port, and that California has been for mally tak< -->ion of by Commodore Sloat. You or -uion the fact that i Fremont is in the North, and that there will not be much on the land, and none at sea. That is all the information \vj can ith the exception that General Castro is here in Sama IJar and ha> son.- u >d men under his command. Now get back to your i as soon a Ie, for if the patrol should find you here it would be bad for us and you also." Just as I finished speaking we could hear the lou I. ri trumpets, and ;he darkness saw a party of horsemen coming along the beach from the direction of Buenaventura. m for your lives," Lcwey and I whispered. " Here comes the patrol. If they see you there will be a devil of a row and no mis-ake." The naval officer and his men did not stop for further advice. They ran along the shore toward Point Arena, while Lewoy and Id the town, then threw ourselves in the tall. s that fringed the beach, and remained concealed until the cavalry passed by. We heard some w of chall- w shots, a shrill yell, as if some one was wounded, and then left the shelter of the chapparel, and ran in the direction of the mis- ole would not su> -ect we came from the usual ;nct any a , c C ame i" our me; LTtered the lon_ beaten, half a dozen trumpets souncK it, and then off Point Arena, more than three milesJiftiaJand, we saw a blue light burned, Lewey and I. and into th- -ul reveal- e and it w.;s a si-^ iju i.f r-.i.ill for the boat and crew, but we feared >t tire latter /cans were . cut off their i cd to remain and help the had been discovered holding commur. . .\\\ .in cue- cr and a sh..rp volley would have settled our part of the .ime at daylight the next m (General Castro did not alldw , the Ameriiar.s by his friends. r pained our quarters ti as mounting his horse to get the rm to the teach and see what the trouble is all fellows. They re mand men have landed on the shore, and are march ward 1 _ as mat at all alo let me kr U th.it here was a - re better y and I, as we knew . iiuw str> :e in the rank ; lorses, c.. -ind then galloped to- \ . ir nay to the me- scape all .1 to *o:n ere or twice I heard the it this was :. .c had the re|X)rl been true. : .ice, where we knew we sho I . the Mexicans \v^:o m.iking it m.-i: i their .-. As ti. . were iujuied. ;er of the cutler t -zed io the surf, and if such was the case all hands would be capture < vere w.r tid as 1 r odt up,/ let us not waste our time here wi 374 Lewey and /. one boat when there are so many others about to land and capture the town. Besides, if the ship should fire one of her heavy guns in our direction many of us nr.ght be killed, as this point i.s an exposed place." Luck was on my side just then, for the Congress let drive a shot at the land, where the scene was lighted up by the flash of carbines, and a ball passed over our heads, so close that we were nearly knocked down by the windage, and our hats flew in all directions, so great was the current. The attention of the officers of the frigate had been attracted by the fir ing on shore, and fearing the crew of the cutter were in danger a chance shot was hurl ;d toward the land, with an elevation sufficient to clear the water, and not injure the sailors. It came just right, and at the proper lime. " Do .vn to the beach," Lewey and I shouted. " The next shot may be a shell, and kill the whole of us. Let these men go while we look after the others." There was a general compliance with the order, and no grumbling. As we turned to leave the seaman to get through the surf the best way they could another solid shot was discharged, struck the sand-hill, and threw more than a cart-load of gravel all over us, some of it lodging in the men s eyes, causing much needless profanity. We did not wait for a third discharge, but got off that high bluff as soon as possible, and rode along the beach, and as we did so the Yankees in the boat gave three cheers, and then had the impudence to yell out, " Come on, you bloody greasers. We can lick a million of you," and with the words they wont through the surf, and were out of harm s way in a short time, for how could we accept the challenge to "come on " when we had no boat, and could not walk the water ? For a mile along the beach we went looking for imaginary enemit found none, as a matter of course, and then, after seeing the frigate burn a blue light to show her position to the cutter s crew, we went back to town, and reported to the co .onel that our men had beaten off a large number of enemies, and performed such feats of valor that Homer would have de lighted to record them had he been alive at the time, and capable of grasp ing the situation. Of course this pleased all who were engaged in the attack, officers and men, and General Castro issued an order thanking us for the energy and bravery \ve had displayed, and the young girls smiled on us, and sang their most f. .scinating songs for our cntcrt. One crazy-headed, long haired poet wrote some lines for the cavalry on the strength of the night a Lewcy and L 375 doings, and I remember it popular at the time. A translation reads something like this, 14 See the heroes crushing, rushing, See their swords for blood are thirsting. Now the gringos they must run, For the Mexican with his gun Shoots all who on our soil do land, And for Yankees care not a cnramba." This is as rmr as I can come to the original. The poet is not alive at the present day, but some of his descendants are, and flourish not on .y in this part of the world but in California. The race never dies out, more is the pity. The next day Pedro, our old friend the correo, arrive-1 with important despatch Los Angeles, and then came an order for the cavalry to move immediately on the town, take possession, and hold the place against all co:i. Colonel Fernando was detailed to go, and General Flores was to assume ^cme command of all the forces assembled. We were invited to r the valiant warriors, and as we had nothing better to do consented to march with our young friend, and look after started I had a short interview with Senora Costello, and a I on both sides, something never to 1 ten on my trul remembered for many years by the lady I stipp -se. alt! : i om her or her secret thoughts after I left the const. Hut if she is alive I should like to meet her once more, and : mes an.l old adventures. It would be worth a trip to California to speak her but for a moment. CHAPTER XII. I BID SENORA COSTELLO FAREWELL, AND HAVE NO COMMENTS TO MAKE. THE MARCH TO LOS ANGELES. THE BATTLE AND ITS RESULTS. ON THE ROUTE TO SAN DIEGO. A LUCKY FIND OF GOLD. A DIS APPOINTMENT ALL ROUND. SAN DIEGO. SCOTCH JACK GIVES US A RECEPTION. A UNITED STATES FLEET. OFF FOR MAZATLAND. HOME AT LAST. LEWEY S BEAUTIFUL SISTER. A HAPPY LIFE AND A DARK CLOUD. THE END. TT was Colonel Fernando who informed me that his pretty little sister, * Senora Costello, desired to see me before we left Santa Barbara for Los Angeles, and although I had no wish for the interview, and would have avoided it, there was no reason why I should act impolitely and decline the invitation to call and exchange a few parting words with one who had treated me with so much respect and consideration for several months. I did not dare to analyze my feelings to.vard the lady, for she was a married woman, a devoted mother, and her relatives were high in the con fidence of the government, rich and influential, proud and despotic. * Now," said Lewey, as I started on the way, " do not a fool you make of ycrnself. Be like me, cold and distant, and remember dat ve has de repu tation to keep up." 1 took no notice of the impudent young man, but went to the house the lady was icsiding with her husband. She received r dial manner, invited me to take a seat by her side, as she w.ib all alone, and said, " Do you leave today w th the regiment ? " " Yes, scnora, in a few hours wi- shall be on our way." "And when do you expect to return to Santa Barbara?" " Perhaps never. We think of going to San Diego, and from there take Lcwey and L home. Our life in this country has b~en one set :e tired of fig .ainst ki. * I a-n ulad you are going, and trust you will never return. see r for ihe last time on earth, 1 sincerely hope. I I] lenora," but I trembled, and felt hurt at her words. I k ,i have been like a brother to me," the lady whisper-, irk eyes and gave me a glance I did not dare to meet. " Have you of me as a sister?" ry dear sister." .it all times trust yourself with me as a relative? " she asked, >!y I thought. as a man of honor I should never fail to treat you as your high c that I ana married and love my husband ? " the lady de manded imperiously. .s, senora, I comprehend all that." And if I was single, what then ? " - I should hope, and remain in the country, lady." 41 What do you mean by those words ? " ngs, and are very plain." Good -iid, and held out her litile hand. do-.vn and kissed it, and turned to leave her with a. stitlinn sensa tion in m -iim with moisture. -tuous manner. ^ .ah head at her handsome, | : ice, and flashing eyes. remember," the lady cried, "the night we supposed t were to attack Monterey, some years ago ? " aora." rricd me in your arms to the boat, and were m to el*?! ur labor?" 44 It was no later, la-ly. It was a pleasure to serve you. 1 done much more to aid you had I the the time." to deny from that night you loved me ? " I .l,r windows and danced around the room, tinging with gold the dicss and Lewey and /. of the majestic little woman before me, who was playing with her victim like a tigeress with a stricken animal, too weak to make its e. ; too timid to die willingly. " Why do you not deny my words? " Senora Coslello asked, and stamped her little, well-formed foot, the toes of which were enclosed by a slipper without sides. * There is no occasion for words from me, senora. I am but a humble young man, poor, and dependent upon favor for fortune. If I was a gentle man I could have spoken some years ago. Now it is too late. Let me go I entreat you. This interview is very painful to me, and can do you no good." " Do you remember," she asked in a more gentle tone, " how you saved me from insult at San Luis Obispo ? " Yes, lady." " And defended me from ladrones on the journey to Monterey? " "I remember all, lady. The earthquake and uprising after the troop* had left the town. I would gladly do the same again and again for your sake, and think that 1 was repaid for my trouble if your safety was secured." " How dare you talk to me, a married lady, in such a manner? Do you know your position and mine? Do you realize who you are and what you are? Do you recollect that a few months ago you gladly herded with giils of the peon class, and felt honored at their notice, and would have ma: one if she had not tired of waiting for you, and chose another more to her taste?" by do you remind me of all this?" I asked, with a weiry sigh, as I raised my head and looked at the flashing eyes of the lady. "To show you the difference in our positions. I am of a rich family and the daughter of a gentleman," she said with the haiigl.ty prid^ of the Spanish race. " What constitutes a gentleman, lady ? " I asked. " Wraith, sir," was the answer. "Then I cm lay no claim to gentility. Let me go. I shall never see i "t-r today," and moved toward the door as I spoke. " Kcmiin v.here you arc, sir, for the present," Senora CosM-llo said, as her peon and slave, "and answer me can read and have an education, a better one than I ever could hope for. There is not a caballcro in Santa Uarbara who can speak 1 libh, Spanish and French, and write those un^uages. There is not one who Lewey an3 T. has so extensively as you have, who is so bold and devoted, and yet .cse wonderful qualities I hate you, scorn and loathe you, and .would kill you if 1 dared." * For what reason, lady ? " I asked, astonished at this burst of uncalled lor rage from the pretty little woman. " Wretch," she cried, as though she would like to fall afoul of me, anj -tear my luir out in great handfuls, "did you not kneel by the side of that dying peon girl, anJ kiss her lips, and shed tears, as though you mourned (or her justly-deserved death ? " I admit the accusation, "lady." She seemed inclined to make a spring at me, and scratch my face, and I wondered what the deuse was the matter with one usually so gentle and kind. Go, 1 she said. " Your presence here polutes the air. You are dead to shame and all noLle feeling. You are the meanest young man I ever mec in my life." I bowed in silence, and turned away. I thought she was a little out of her head, and had no idea why she should treat me in such a curt manner. Surely I had been very polite to her all through our acquaintance, and nev er spoke a rude, impatient word, or cherished an improper thought. If I had kissed her it was as a brother and not as a lover, and now that she was driving me from her presence with a scornful gesture and bitter words I bowed my head, and with tears in my eyes passed out of the room, and did not even look back to see if she waved me a farewell. But as I reached the veranda a little jiand was laid on my shoulder very lightly, and a soft voice whispered, 41 You will not leave me in anger, will you ? " o, in sorrow more than anger, sweet iady." -et all the harsh things that I have uttered, senor," the lad. " In yo \ir departure remember me as one who could have loved if she had had the chance, and lates were propitious. But do not speak to me, or I shall again hate you, as I think of that dead peon girl, end you bending over her. There was another who should have been shot beside the San- chos. Here, take this ri:r^. Wear it sometimes for my sake, and then think of me as kindly a* you OtO. But do not return to San t -..or remain in the country, for you might sometime marry, and then I should ; . ,. i . I k:io-.v I could not help doing so." "For w ut reason, scnora? * I asked in innocent surprise. a bobo," was the sharp reply, and when I look back to tbX V* Lewey and t. rerview I think that I must have been xvhat she called me, a fool, for 1 <Hd not suspect for a moment why she hated all whom I toved. She thrust a ring into my hand, and re-entered the house, and I walked slowly along the hot, dusty streets. As I did so I glanced at the trinket, and saw that it was a valuable diamond, a large, brilliant stone, of a delicate straw color, yet flashing in the sunlight like a star on a winter night in high latitudes. i own that valuable gem at the present time, set in a rich masonic jewel, and. when I wear it my thoughts go back to Senora Costello, and I Bonder i: she is still alive, and remember* her boy lover, and his modest diffidence and misunderstanding of a woman s heart and whims. Tne trumpets were sounding cheerfully a? I regained my quarters, and found the horses saddled, and waiting my rciuin to join the head of the regiment, v.hich was drawn up for the march ove; ibe mountains. Lewey was sitting on the door-step, smoking his pipe, all equipped for the journey. Jle looked at me long and earnestly, and then said, " Before I my hand gives to you tell me dat as a man c:f honor has you acted." " As a man of honor, my friend, I assure you. * " Den I takes you to mine heart. I knew dat trust you I could. . Alons. Jet us go, or de trumpeters vill deir heads blow off. I is glad to see dat my example is good for von foolish boy like you. Imitate me, and all vill be veil." I could not give the French lad a piece of my mind, for I was .in no con dition for badinage. We whistled lor Jack, mounted our horses, and rode to the head of the column just as the order was given for "fours right," and with a shrill blast from the trumpets we filed through the greets, and were admired by the ladies as usual. Senora Costello was on the veranda of her house, and although she threw a greeting to her brother, never locked at me, or noticed my profound bow, and so we passed out of sight, ar.d I never saw the pretty little mother again, but I did not "forget her, a ld shall not as long a* I live. \Vc toiled up the side of the mountain, and on the crest I halted my horse, and looked at the sleepy, picturesque little town, the surf and beach, the old mission, and then turned and resumed my journey, and that was the lust view I ever had of Santa Barbara, the scene of so many hours of pieas ure and pain. * through the district like a swarm of locusts, eating and de- :. all that came in our way. .Some of the rancher?* weie - and L 381 i declare th t A ere to be preferred to the Mexi- :pposed they were a liitle prejudiced a^ainsi tlu cav- its freedom and bravery in attacking herd* , and ru; our men, many of *:hem breaking . in twcnl) ^ur noa^, through racing ano :v,d. da) s on o*ir tramp to Los Angeles, and then /rhvine, and drove all the Americans oui of tl-e rK.c :d become r.V.iralizcd Mexicans, and married into the in-1 ; were able L r*pay some of the former kino _> and Temple, for we hoJ a guard placed over the store of the r . our quarters at the house of the lit 1 . were enalled to save both gentlemen much annoy- :r property -intact, something worth consider! 1.1; when .-I there were about eight hundred restless men in town, and ,.1 would not distinguish between right and wrong where ; :ned. We should have been very pleasantly located at Los Angeles, as far as .ilers were concerned, if .Mr. Temple had not insisted upon our sitting .1 drinking strong punch and playing monte. \Ve gener ic an excuse and escaped all damage, .but the temptation rig, and we had much difficulty in getting away by pretending mii : staff duties. y and I were quite popular in Los Angeles, our persecuters were and the young ladies never tired of asking after the fate .he girls we were supposed to have desired to marry. The friendly man- Colonel Fernando and his officer^ treated us was another cvi it we were capable of obtaining anything we desired in ti.c WAV o> ferment had we been disposed to ask it. We were invited to some very .* houses, and had no duty to perform except at the dress parades, when . Ac that the regiment should show as many men in line as !c. To be sure, for this arduous duty we received no pay, but were tokf t we could have a ,! the land we desired, even ten leagues square . .;nify our \\ish for as much. At one time we thought trtot we would take a grant, and settle down foi I life, but the fre!in<r for home in LeweVfl breast and ray own grew stron^e* I and strongei, Mid at list we concluded that we had seen enough of C. ends faces would be desirable. We were not te pennil ch, and if we wished for wealth it w. 382 Lewey and L show that four years of our lives had not been wasted in reckless adven tures. It vv-a,~ while we entertained such feelings that the rumors of war became more numerous. We learned that Fremont had been appointed by Com modore Stockton governor of the State, and also lieutenant-colonel ol a mounted regiment of rifles, and that he was threatening the whole of North ern Cillfr-rnia, and had, in fact, subjected it to his control, and was march ing toward Santa Barbara. Then came a despatch stating that five hun dred marines and sailors were being disembarked at San Pedro from the frigates lying there, the Savannah being the principal vessel. Our scouts learned enough to know that the force was intended for Los Angeles, and this set General Flores in motion, with about four hundred men (all well mounted, and under the command of Colonel Fernando), and one little light six-pounder, which the Mexicans picked up somewhere, and had prepared about twenty-five rounds of ammunition for the same. I never knew where the powder or shot came from Jt was a mystery to most every one excrept Flores. Lewey and I were invited to go and see the battle, and as we were mounted on fast horses had no objection, thinking we could keep out of the way of the American warriors should the attack become a serious one, which we did not anticipate for a moment, as we imagined our Mexican friends would stand one volley, and then retreat as soon as possible, gain ing the tops of the neighboring mountains, and from thence carry on an irregular warfare for months to come, with safety to themselves and danger to the enemy. Jt was a lovely morning when we galloped out of Los Angeles, and took the road for San Pedro, but as the sun got up the heat became intense on the mesa lands, as there was not a breath of air stirring. The little brass field-piece was drawn by two large mules, staid old beasts, that required much pounding to get into a run, and so keep up with the horsemen. When about ten miles from the town we sighted the advance guard of the Americans, all on foot, sailors and marines, stretched along the road as though going to a picnic, and caring no more for us than if we had been so many women. In fact we were despised, and yet it is net good generalship to laugh at any force that may be sent against you, for fortune is a fickle iade, and sometimes deserts the best of generals, men who count on their stars and not on the resolution of a foe, like Napoleon at Waterloo/ General Flores called a halt, and sent a few scouts forward to recon- ooitre. The rancheros wcre_upcrDly mounted, ana some ot *fje and /. 383 horsemen in the country. It was a beautiful exhibition of dash and - fulness to see them hovering around the Americans, sometimes or. flank, rear, and in front, and yet out of musket shot all the time, for not a ball touched them. They irritated the invaders like vicious flies in the .vner-time around bald-headed men, for occasionally we could sec a dozen k-tars start off on the run to get a little nearer the fleet enemy, and then the Mexicans would laugh and make insulting gestures, in the hope of in ducing the Yankees to continue the pursuit, and be cut off from the n bo The ranchcros were like sparrows on the win^, now here and there, and avray on the run when there was a chance to distract the attention of the enemy, or throw a lariat around a sailor just out of bounds. "Thorn," said my friend Lewey, after we had sat and watched the enemy" ior half an hour or more, " your countryman like a fool acts. I see disas ter to him unless he keeps in line and not fret ven de Mexican is near. Now at dat look. * I did look, and could only groan at the manner in which my friends were acting. They seemed to think that the Mexicans were a set of vagabonds and destitute of courage or skill, and that an American could walk away i a dozen of them on foot or horseback, forgetting for the moment that the ranchero* were as expert riders as could be found in the world, and not devoid of a certain amount of desperate pluck, when well led by men in whom they had confidence. Suddenly the sailors gave three cheers, and rushed toward us, not in the best of formation, but a rollicking sort of way, as though expecting us to scatter and run. There was a magnificent chance for a charge of cavalry, and 1 expected General Florcs would give the order to move forward. .n Colonel Fernando drew his sabre,* and,, smiling, told me to out of line unless I desired to ride over my own countrymen. If the a had been matfe with boldness not a hundred Americans would have aped. But the order was not given, for Florea had other plans, ant! afraid of defeat, yet victory was certain if a little earnestness had beea shown by ihc Mexicans. Up to the front came the two mules with ihe field piece," and ft was* ; pointed at the invaders when they were not more than half a mile distant. There was a rn^ r,; < . :scharge, and down fell a dozen or more sailors :ies, killed and wounded. "Tocar a lar retirada," sounded the trump-ts, and I wa> \\\ hopes the Mexicans .were about to fall back to the town, without more fighting, but T.ewey ancl / the v?oupding of the Americans secmcB tt> enrage the sailors, as they ut- Kred a yetl and came for us as fast as they could run. * Fuego," shouted Florcs with a smile on his face, as he saw the imbecil ity of his opponents, The mules once more came to the front, there was a roaring discharge", and <Iown tumbled many men who should have been spared such a cruel fare. The: marines gave us a volley/ but no one was injured, for their mus. keis, old-fasliioned ones at that, did not carry a ball like the breach loader "c modern days, when it is possible to kill at a distance of over a mile. Had aur people been armed with such weapons at that time the Mexicans would have been defeated with great loss.. But they were not, and so bad to suffer. As the Americans advanced the Mexicms retreated, slowly, yet fast enough to keep beyom] the reach of the invaders, and when a chance pre- ! t the field piece was brought into use, and at every discharge men fell, j were shouts of rage and pain from one party, and yells of triumph from the other, but at last it was reported that there was only one round of Ammunition left for the brass gun, and I was glad to hear it, although I did jnot dare to express my joy at the news, for if I had my life would not have been worth a real. In fact but few in the regiment knew that I was an American, as it was not considered desirable to parade my nationality be- fjore every one, by the advice of Colonel Fernando, who was a good friend to us as long as we were with him. The invaders did not pursue the Mexicans any further. They gathered tup their dead and wounded and retired to their ships at San Pedro, sadder and wiser men, while the cavalry went back to Los Angeles flushed with triumph, and received an ovation so flattering no wonder the h?ads of all the officers were turned for the time being, and. proclamations were as plentiful as oranges in modern days. Americans became decidedly unpopular in the town, as the soldiers were clamorous to be again .led against the Yankees, and while this feeling pre* vailed Colonel Fernando one day sent for Lewcy and myself, and spoke to us very seriously and calmly. "This is. now no . place for you," he said. "Our people arc growing more excited every day against, foreigners. At the present time you stand well, but still there arc irmrmurs that you are Americans in disguise, and acting as spies for the United State?. It is useless to state I do not be lieve a word that is whispered against you. Still I can t entirely shut the youths of tliose wfcf are cla.morvw.J0r fcroc w ^ hope of obtaining an office and ucalth. If v. _rs would have lr leave us and the ( safe." jlicvcd that there was r. cept it. We had noticed cold looks for several ifot smile on us as formerly, for some reason \\iiich \\c did net compre*, hend. " Go to San r> house. That :nd, and you will not be disturbed there. I can you passes ail through the lower part of the Su c, so that no one molest or detain you on the way, or at San Diego. I have alreac! mcnt from General Castro in yoifr behalf, and totla from General Flores. It shall be reported in the town that you have 0n* on a scouting expedition over the mountains, r. not likely you meet with any one to interfere with your affairs. I dislike to part with such dear friends, but it is for the best. I believe n " Colonel/ 1 I asked, " what is the prospect ol Mexico retaining posses sion of the State ? " * None," the officer answered with a sigh. " We shall ultimately be ground to powder, extinguished and exterminated. There is no hope for The United States have been endeavoring for years to get a foothold here, and there is not a stream, a pass, a canyon, or a tra ome of their maps. Explor .; have been through the cou under the guise of trappers ami hunters, and noted everything of interest, anil it will be turned to good a Fremont has raised a ncnt of mounted rifles, and \\ho < .-n ? Ge: s headed for San Diego, on -n from couriers. Commodore , . rch on Los Angeles in such ^r. ;!; -.all be defcatc : or battle. Hemmed in on all r hope is there for us, e ollect that not one-tenth part of ll.c male population ! . and offered to assist u^ ? V,V could keep up a gucr Jng to the mountains, but \\h.it use -.wi! 1 it be? Shon cure our fndependence ? No, .1 pricv i the In* dians might hunl for us !ik the c out guns, ammunition, or moaey,_vvhat caa we hope for against a powerful 386 Ltwey and L aattou ? It cofaraands our poru, and soon will occupy the land, fight a* hard as we may to preserve it." I MI*/ tears in the gallant young man s eyes as he spoke. He turned to the window for a moment to hide his emotion, and then once again faced us. " You, senors, have been to me like brothers for the past few months. You have saved my life, and that of my sister and her child on several oc casions. Let me make some return for all your kindness before \ve part. Here are two bags. Each contains in doubloons the sum of one thousand dollars. Oblige me by accepting the same as s 6me recompense for your interest in my behalf. The amount is small, and I wish that it was ten times larger, but it is all that I can afford just now." " Colonel," I said, " we thank you for your many acts of kindness, and wish that we could remain with you until peace is declared. We have long felt that we occupied a peculiar position, and discussed the prospects of getting home. Your words have only hastened- our action. We cannot serve against the United States, and we have taken an oath not to raise a hand in opposition to-Mexico. What can we do but retire from the State, or else espouse one side or the other to prevent suspicion being attached to our actions. Keep your money, for we want none of it." "You need it more than I do," the colonel said, " I can do nothing with so much gold at the present time, unless I bury it, and then if killed who is to benefit by it ? My wealth is all in land and cattle. The cattle may dis appear, but the land will remain and yield me a home some time or other I hope, even if it is under the stars and stripes. Don t be afraid of the mon ey. ^ I won it last night from Senor Temple- on the turning of a card. He won t feel it,^ for he has plenty more somewhere. I made the stake in the hope of reaping a rich harvest so that I could be generous to you." "And it you had lost, Senor Colonel ? n I asked. "I should have given him a township in the Valley of San Gabriel," w-; the answer. " I own half a county there I believe, although I have never seen much of it. With one hundred thousand acres on the Sacramento River, and one or two hundred thousand near Monterey, and what I have here, I am pretty well provided for. Take the gold, senors. Unless you do. I shall feel that you do pot think the sum is enough." Under the circumstances we did not again refuse the generous gift We left the presence of the young officer feeling the highest respect for a man who would risk a principality for the purpose of winning a lot of gold for tb* ose of his friends. Lewey ana I. 387 fhe same day we quietly commenced our preparations for departure. \ not intend it should be generally known that we were goiog, so .-d the secret to Messrs. Temple and Stearns only. They approved of the step we were about to take, and thought it a judicious one. We de termined to use our peon servant, as he was a smart, active fellow, and very irthy if ram was kept out of his way. He had looked after our hoises for some months, knew our ways, and was eager to go on a scouting expedition, or anywhere else, provided he was paid a few dollars a month, iie was certain to lose at monte in less than two hours after receiv ing the money. :61d him to pick out two good, safe pack-mules from those belonging to the army, with saddles and reatas, also the mustang he was accustomed to ride on the march. This he did, and Colonel Fernando gave them to us without price. To be sure the animals did not cost the Mexican govern- :, as they were taken when needed, and trom whomsoever hap- . \ to have a stock, no money being passed during the transaction. \Ve gathered a supply of tobacc<~, matches, dried beef, coffee and sugar, .cad, a-nd a fresh lot of fishing lines and hooks, besides a coffee pot, -..Hot to try what we could not broil. Then we collected a lot of am- on for our rifles and pistols, and while we were buying the latter Mr. s made us a present of a spade, the last thing we should have thought of taking with us, but we were assured that it would be useful to dig worms .nt after trout. We did find it useful, but not for the purpose ted. 1 our purchases were collected, and stowed away ir. . ready for packing on the mules, we went around and bade good- .timate friends, and the next morning lor: .: before daylight ir breakfast, and were in the saddle. Just before we started -.me \o in and shook hands, wishing us ail kinds of ick, an<l then as the first streaks of rhyli^ht touched the faces of the ht of Jack we filed out of town, halted every :ninutCR with the sharp cry of, liere uste<l ? Par or, and then the password of " Castro * w. >d thus running the gauntlet of challenges we were soon o .-its of the trvvn, and near the Mission of ng our re us, or, raihe.. our Indian did, in the rancheros, and ;ust as we ha-1 passed th- -y checked his hor: 388 I*ewey and L " De saints hab me in deir keepin , but I has forgotten von ding flat is important." " And what is that ? " a .little startled at the thought that it might be our money. " Vy, vot skall ve tell de daughters of de ranqheros on de vay ? To von Florencia I promised much. To de fadder of de udder you say many foolish dings. But de question now is vot skall ve do and libe ? Ve can t ved." " Do not let us borrow trouble until the tire e arrives for it," I remarked. 1 Perhaps the girls are married, and out of the way by this time, so all diffi. culty will be avoided." I- dink. not. Yen a #irl say she love me it is for life. But, alons. We can swear dat ve is de bearer of despatches and has no time for de matri-. mony." With this consoling thought we pushed on after Juan, the Indian peon, and at sunrise were on the spur of one of the mountains of the Sierra Madre, and looking off toward Los Angeles, the mission, and the lovely Valley of San Gabriel, while away to the west sparkled the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, and thfc white Cataline Island, lying off the coast, ren dered more distinct by the gleams of the sun, just starting on its daily- course through a cloudless sky. The scene was too beautiful to part- from in a hurry. We called to Juan to unload the mules, and start a fire. Lewey and I prepared a pot of cof fee, brought forth some bread and cold meat for an. early breakfast, and tvhfie we ate -and drank our animals fed on the dry grasses and wild oats of the district. Jack was delighted with the change. He scented game in every copse, and through the bushes roamed in constant expectation of meeting some thing he" could punish and worry. Juan was satisfied with our unlimited supply of cigarettes and tobacco, and the hope of earning a few dollars so that he could have the pleasure of losing the same at monte, just as soon as \ve struck the town of San Diego. For an hour we sat on the mountain spur, smoking and 4 looking at the beautiful scenery beneath us, enjoying every moment of the time, and thinking how we had rested in the same I a few months before, on our journey toward Ranche Refu^io, with high, hopes of matrimony and love, only to be disappointed. And yet we could not bear to turn our backs on the place that had sheltered us for so many weeks, and where we found warm friends when we needed them. " and 7. "Load up, Ju ip on the other side of the mountains : The peon obeyed, and was soon hurrying his pack-mules over the AC mounted our horses, took one last look at the surrounding coun- : .nd then resumed our journey, bu. . in all the world there could not be a more beautiful spot for a home, and since then .:ids of peopie have come to the same conclusion, for the San Gabriel is now teeming with life and industry, and vineyards and grain have taken the place of cattle ranches, and where the coyote once roamed in a wilderness now school children are seen on their way for instruction. The store-keeper has forced the rdnchero from his stronghold, and kft only a on of his former power, and expertness on horseback, and with the lariat in his dark, sinuous hands, that never knew the meaning or use of soap, even in a long and savory career of cattle tending. A new world has opened for the attraction of industrious men and women, "but it has one fault, for who would want to die when once comfortably settled in h a paradise? vent through the canyon in a careful, leisurely manner, ?aw the same eagles overhead, the same hawks and buzzards, and at last came to the 1> lint where we had witnessed the exploits of the bear in pitching rocks in to the stream beneath him, for the purpose of seeing the water splash up- and, strange as it may seem, there was a bear at the very spot, and i the same monotonous sport. It mi^ht have been the one we icn we went through before, or a companion, but the circumstance singular one to say the least, and when we stopped and looked old fellow, and shouted to him across the ravine, he sat up on his haunches ^and actuaKy beckoned us to come over, and have a close and confidential chat. Lcwey vowed that he saw the brute wink one eye, but ti. French Kid v.v.s not inclined to always confine himself to facts, and van- a liitlc in his great desire to imagine things which really did not The brute was so cool and independent that we did not desire to disturb . pincss. We left it pitching down stones, and felt as tho . seen an old friend for the last time. Ju , hunted in couples when after fish. That one .e a position over a brook, and hurl bowlders into { . onfcderate might be sU ione.l down ti i I > i!oated a! 4 Ji(e. The peon related : ..c face, as the , true, and J give it for what it is vorih, , -as told to me many years ago. Lewey and T. verify . f hc matter by actual experience. If the bears of Cali fornia fished in that way it certainly denoted aa amount of instinct and in telligence that they never had credit for. I should like to have invest!- .: found out how many stones had to be thrown to kill one fish, for ough trout we; .-iiiful, it seemed to me that tl.e noise of falling rocks mui>: Kv/c frightened il e finny tribe, but perl-... >crc Attracted and not repelled by the stones, no one ever fisr.inj- the rt/cams in those .tout were not as timid as at the present time, when every one is anxious f or a big string. It was near three o clock in the afternoon before we cached our old camp ing-ground, where we had shot the prowling mount,-.: n lion. Our horses recollected the spot as well as ourselves, for they sncrtod and sniffed, and were uneasy for some time, evidently i-oking for another attack. We concluded to camp on the same spot as of old, and as Juan was piq- letting the mules and hor~.es where the grass was greenest, by the side of a small stream, Lewey s.r.1 I took our fish lines, and wandered along the banks of the brook, and soon had a nice mess of handsome trout, and while we were lli-is engaged Ji.;re occurred one of the greatest surprises that we hid encountered in California, i had taken the spade along for the pur pose of digging some worms for bait, aad while I was replenishing my ex hausted stock so that we could do a little fishing early in the morning my shovel struck a hard substance, and I threw it one side thinking it a slonc, but the color attracted my attention, so I picked up what I thought was a peculiar piece of quartz, as large as a man s hand, and so heavy that I was astonished at the weight. "Lewey," I said, calling to my friend who was some distance from me, " what kind of stone is this ? If looks lik gold." The French lad ran toward me, and as I tossed him the nugget his eyes expressed the astonishment he felt. He looked it all over, balanced it in his hands, from one to the other, and then cried, 41 Mon dieu, man alive, dat is gold, and de best of its kind. * 11 Are you sure ? " I asked, almost dazed at his words. "Sure, veil I should dink I am sure. I vonce studied de mineralogy, and I knows about de dings of de earth. Vy, old ami, dat little piece of de precioas stuff is vorth all of two dousand dollars. By gracious me, but ve has found a gold mine, and ve is rich for eber and eber. Gib me dc spade. Let us see if dar is much like him round here." lie went to work with a vim, and threw the loose earth lar from the c where I had dug for worms. la a few minutes he was rewarded for Lewey and L 39 * his labor, n ,?t cam 3 to light about as large a and then ri our operations for the night. V. up our gold ant! eturned to camp, but consic to inform Juan of our : tune, as we did not know b ;ht be induced to murder u., \ i.ile we slept, as so much wealth was a great temp tation to a poor peon. We concea^cl the treasure among our clothes ia the bags, usi-.ic the letter for pillows at --light. As one m t )ose we were t:>o excited to eit 01 sleep much that night, but we smoked many pipes of tobacco in the evening, talked over our plans, and liow we would remain where we were until we hn4 collected a fortune, if the gold held out. \ did slumber we started up at every unusual sound, and even the barking of the coyotes seemed threat 2v ing. But Juan slept on undisturbed, and dreamed of being at last lucky at monte. At daylight we were n^r n at work. One of us dug over t * gravel down to a ledge, and the other fished, but :o more nuggets were toun. , w! thought hard luck. Juan war.ted to know why we used the spade so n that we had come across some peculiar-looking quartz which we were anxious to take home as curiosities, showing him a lot of pebbles at the same time. H-e though it a simple kind of mania, and only laughed at our ideas of what was valuable. To get rid of him we let him take one of our rifles, and set out in search of deer, as soon as breakfast was over, while we went to work in earnest, and found several small nug gets of gold in the course of the forenoon, but they were not larger than English walnuts. Juan came bnck in the afternoon with a small deer over his shoulder, and roud of his exploit. We had venison fdr supper, and did not think re likely to starve for the want of food as long as game and fish in 1 easily obtained, were close at hand. For two weeks we worked our bonanza, and then seemed to have ex hausted the pocket, although much fine, scale gold was obtained. We could only estimate the value of the prize, but thought that there could not be less than f.vo hundred pounds in weight, all pure and free from quartz. But we continued to di^ day aftqr day in the hope of finding more wealth, and when we were disappointed packed Up our traps and moved onward, happy in the thought thnt we were rich even beyond our dreams. ft was near four o clock in the afternoon when we reached owned by the man who was anxious I shoul i m.irry his <hughtrr at the time we passed the night there, on our journey to Los Angeics. The place 392 Lewey and /. lianged, and we had the usual gauntlet of questions to answer, the same escopeta to dodge as of old. But when the Mexican and his son at last recognized us we were made welcome, and offered the best in the house. I saw the girl who was so anxious for a husband, and she save me .leasant smile of greeting, but did not rush to my arms, and^call me blessed, as is the custom now-a-days. Besides, there was a strarge ranche- ro there, a fellow we had never before seen, and he seemed a little familiar . the lady, more so than gooii taste would warrant, I thought. But then . ey laughed at the idea, and said that I was jealous. le Juan was looking to the mules and horses, and after we had carried our bags of treasure to the shed, the Mexican father said that he desired a few minutes conversation with me. " You know," he said, " I wished you to marry my daughter?" "Yes, there was some talk on the subject," I answered meekly. " And you have comtf all this way to carry out the plan ? " . have thought of the matter many times since we parted," was my .ve reply. The Mexican appeared a little embarassed, but at length freed his mind .s manner, " The fact of the matter is," he remarked, after a pause, " my daughter has done bette* *ba i if she waited for you. She is already married, and that r nchert is f <>r husband. I am sorry for your disappointment, but you chouid have come sooner." I tried to look the dejection that I did not feel, and said that it was un fortunate, but undoubtedly all for tbe best, and the man was glad I did not . : d him for his bad faith. I told Lewey of my narrow escape, and he said I might have expected as ,nuch, No wonrrn would ca/e, he thought, to wait for me any length of timt. " You skall see ->o\v faithful my littte Florencia is. She go not back on ncber," and . srid that I would wait and test his confidence in woman- .I. It appeared ;c me that we were having hard times with our love af- fairs in California. /. of our ventures were destined to end in disappoint ment and d;sas:er The next moaning ve !:. %i med our journey, crossed the lo\v rancrc of -ded the ?a;i Felipe Creek, then camped in the verv place F and his P Hors. Th jlcsomc guests we had the :cyu e:, and th-y ma ! misic all night, but did not Lcwey and L venture near enough to sUal from our larder, fearing the fire which we kept burning to keep bears r.t a distance. The evening of the fourth day from our gold mine we galloped up to the lonely ranche, where we had stopped the first night from San Diego. The -..is sitting in his patio when we arrived, and near him vvrn .isome daughter and faded wife. The Mexican was much surprised to v us, and gave us a cordial welcome, but the girl, as soon as she sa\v jy, entered the house in a hurry, and did not again appear all the even* . The meeting with one who had professed to love her a few months, bcfo; , ; Jently too much for the young lady s nerves and presence of i. I could see that the reception nettled my friend, but I said not a jn supper was served, to which we contributed coffee and v confidential to his visitors. c said, " is a little modest about appearing before men just c was married a few months since to our neighbpring ranchero, Tobias, the same one you met the first few hours out from San DL-go. He in, and will make her a good husband. Better than ei iier of !iome on a visit, or you might have missed seeing her. For some weeks after you were gone she could talk only of the brave gringos, but the sighs of the ranchero became warm, and the result was a v.edding* They arc very happy together. He bears the same name as myself, and for some months we have looked upon him as one of oui family, as now he is in reality." y uttered a suppressed groan, and said that he ccuM not cat much, supper, but smoked a good deal, and we went to bed c s we rolled ourselves up in our blankets, " wr.at .ibout a certain girl being ever constant for your sake ? me to sleep go," was the answer in a pettish tone. " You dink ion t you ?" have had hard luck with our love*?, and perhaps it is just as n-Jl, icliow. If we had ; rfl should never hive found a fortune \ pur wives as we have in mother earth," I remarked. The only answer was a snore and . 1 I let my French iricn ilty rest for the ni. ere off at an early hour in the rrc r nin<r, even before the sin wis up. As we rode out of the patio I caught ^ uri^f glimpse of Horcncia in the doo: mdcrc 1 if she thought of her flirtation nilh my fr:r and how icrruptec! led them. 394 Lewey and I. As v. -e stood on the summit of the hill that overlooked the valley, ani jtianccci at the lonely adobe ranche, Lewey relieved his pent-up feelings by asking, I vender if dar is von voman in all dis vorld dat true is to man? " 44 There is still one more chance, my friend," I said. " You can now fall oack on the jailor s daughter. If she has forgotten you then I am willing to believe all that your thoughts imply." He uttered an exclamation of disgust, and we resumed our journey, and it forenoon we galloped over the mesa Jand>, the arid sands, and at four o clock sighted the sleepy 1 rttle town of San Diego, just as the people were awakening frorflf their usual siesta. The first person we saw whom we knew was Captain Fitch. He could hardly realize that the two bronzed boys in Mexican costume were the ones he had aided some months before, and had returned in safety, and able by their papers to pass all over the country without question, standing high in the estimation of General Castro and his officers, and also in the esteem of the Americans with whom we had been brought in contact. He insisted that we should take up our residence at his house, free of all expense, until a vessel sailed from the port, but we had to decline the offer on account of Scoich Jack, whose feelings we feared would be hurt if we neglected him and his hide-house. But we promised to visit San l)ico;o often, and then requested the captain to place in his safe for secure keeping the gold coin and nuggets we owned. If he was- surprised before, the sight of so much wealth was a greater wonder to him. He was anxious to learn *where the bonanza was located, but we preferred to keep the place a secret, as we thought f.:.t we could ?cll out our rights for a handsome sum, and we did, for Captain Fitch formed a company, and purchased our interest for ten thousand dollars in gold, and the organization prospered for some years after peace was declared. It is a singular fact that General Kearney and Commodore Stockton, with their combined forces, marched from San Diego to Los Angeles, and camped for a day at the foot of the mountains where we found the nuggets, yet nev;r saw so much as the color of gold. One reason is they never looked for it, or supposed that the precious ore was in the earth beneath their feet. aw o-ir treasure packed a vay in safety, took a receipt for the same-, and then promising to call and dine the next day, mounted our horses io to the beach. Just as we were moving off the jolly red face of Captain Fitch was lighted up with a smile as he shouted after us, Lcwey and I. ::eed not 1 - > come up to the town at any time. The :, and out of the market." muttered Lcwey. " Shall vc eber hear de end of em? o v .T.C is forgetfulness of all de holy feelin s of de na- ; was bent for a moment upon his breast, and when \\as a smile on his face as he slid, I glad of it. The fate of hand is ever ober us. Vot is deir gain is our loss. Alons, ve vill do better in France. * Jock when we reached the hide-house. The harbor ir of shipping, and the bay looked peaceful and slec ; der the s . an. There was no work going on ashore, and Scotch ; sat on the doorstep of his hide-house smoking a black pipe, the same one he had used for a year or more. As we drew up, the old sailor merely cU at us, and asked, i bloody thunder does you greasers want here ? n ; him a question in Spanish, but he waved us off with majestic - Go away from here," he said. " We can t gam together, and you knows it." k, old boy, don t you recollect our hail?" we asked, and then the ancient salt gave a yell that was heard all over the beacb, and he came to- outstretched hands, his hard face lighted up with joy at our pected return. For a few minute^ he could not speak he was so excited, but as soon as had dismounted and entered the old house his feelings found vent, and v.ent to the door and gave a yell that brought all the members of the beach gan^ to the door to see what the matter was. ; have a reception tonight, lads," Jack cried. " Here, you kana ka, take thll dollar, and trot up to the town and get the money s worth of -..irdicntc. We II have a ro.irin punch by and by, and every one shall get a hir share." But, Jack," we said, "wch.n-e returned poor, and ca- t repay tUe mo: nukes no hodds, lads. I has some pesos, and you s u l thai me to the last roal. Here is your home, and here you -. tt. EUnk that kanaka, why don t he move ? A There had b?er. l.-st ! brisk. We were gladly welcom but after we had taken poss-ssbn of^ur bunk?, and stowed our traps a 39^" Lewey and /. secured and fed cur lorses, supper was prepared, and over our pipes we told o an admiring cro vd all our adventures. I am sorry to state thzt the kanaka did not return with the rum that evening, as he sampled it en the way, and goi very drji k, for which we shduld have rejoiced, as w -; were very tired, and needed rest j.ore than a reception, had not Jack been so disappointed in hi* aUempts z.t hospitality. We found c - jr chests and clothes undisturbed. Our shipmate had taken good care of them, t even if he had not expected to see us a:rain. The war had not troubled the people at the hide-house, and the few vessels on the coast, engaged in Meeting queros, came and went undisturbed by the Mexican, authorities. Some parties had spiked the guns in the little presi dio at Ballast Point, and the damages had never been repaired, so there, was clear sailing ia and out of the handsome bay. At breakfast Jack was very anxious to know if we were married, and when informed that our love venture had not been a success his gratifica tion was great, and he begged us to r?e?ember the advice he had given some time before. In the afternoon we mustered enough good clothes to dress in proper costume, and rode to town to dine with Captain Fitch. Here we met the old alcalda, submitted to him our papers from General Castro, and lie was pleased to say that we had nothing to fear from any one. It was after din- net that we made a bargain wkh our host and some other Americans, whereby we sold our bonanza to them for the neat little sum of ten thousand dollars, all in go\d doubicons, which added to the amount we had on hand, made quite a respectable fortune for us. Ours was the first prolific mine ever discovered in California, but the find was kept secret for years, for tear of robbery and violence. Only a few men worked the placer, a*nd those at odd spells to escape observation, A large amount of gold, coarse and nuggets, was taken out, and Captain Fitch was made very rich byihe mine, as well as those who joined him in the enterprise. After dinner we walked to the calabozo, and looked over the place where we were imprisoned or a day or two. V/e saw the jailor s daughter, and although she was not overpowered with joy at the sight of our faces, she did manage to blush a little as she presented us to her husband. We gave, her an ounce of gold, and the act woo her thanks even if it did rot her heart. We kept Juan in our employ to look after the horses and wait upon us, and one day we disclosed to Jack that we were not as poor as we seemed, and the old salt was rejoiced at tfet fofcratt^ga, but, when we ;-rv30_scd to ,/ /. 69? give a feast to all of our old fricndo on the beach, ?nd made our Shipmate president of the day, with orders to get up the best dinner that money could buy, Jack was in paradise. He calculated that half a barrel of aguar- :-.il the bill, and tha fc . cry little n;cat and pite bread would be .dent for a regular blow out, such as sailors enjoy. But v e vowed that ( \ve would not have any drunkea rioting going on, and Jack was forced to :nit to cold punch, and not very strong at that. The dinner was served in our hide-house, all the tables and tiu ware on the beach being pressed into use for the occasion, and every cock volun- s services. We bought all the luxiries we could at San Diego, fruit and fresh meats, and invited Captaia Fitch, the alcalua, and all the i^n residents to CDiae down and share tn tec least. They accepted the invitation, and it r5 something worth seeing to notice Jack, with Lcwey and I on nrul left, presiding. Ho made a speech, and it was a re- Hc Hoped the greasers woulj get licked in the war, which , not ir* gin.! ;>*, as Mexicans were present, but as they did not un hand a w > 3 said it did not matter niucii. Lewcyand I re- spondee! to the toasts complimentary to ourselves, and just ?s the fun grew fast and a little uproarious we heard the sound of a heavy gun off Point Lonu, and rushmg out .to see what it was dl about, beheld a fleet cf ted States ships cnte.ing the harbor, one of them flying the pennant of a commodore. 41 Diablo," muttered the Mcxfcans, and mounting their horses ro Sar > fast as spurs could "urge their steeds, while Scotc>. Jack led up the old muskets, and fired volley after volley as a welcome to the ors. Tb?n feeling tfred with his exertions went back to the fcnst, and . the aid 01 companions finished the puncli, stretched himself cu a chest, Itll asleep, and did not awaken until the fiext moraine;, so thirsty that : .ir of a water famine for a day or two. The ships came to anchor in a grand and seaman-like manner, and then sent on shore to learn the news. Lcwey to the beach, and encountered a lieutcnaYU, ami as we were dressed in civil- Y clothes, and no longer wore the garb of r very and requested to go on board and submit to an interview on the part of Commodore Stockton, who was anxious to see us, or Any one else, if informal" JM could bc^obtaincd. We had no objection, and found the commodore a pteisant man, a little Lit on 1. .as one would naturally suppose. He was quite pleased Mien!:. . iat we h.v ..,cdirom Ics, and 393 Lewey and /. ticular in his inquiries as to the route, ana !:ry could be t: ported through the canyons and or, over the mountains and sand/ plains. We said that there were no very formidable obstacles to overcome, 1 and then he hinted that he vould give us commissions a midship- men if v-e would join his vesceJ, and serve as guid. ie t ails to the Pueblo. But this \ve positively declined, on the ground that we \ ad taken cf neutrality, and would not violate our vows, relating t. e circum- ces of our enlisting \:i the Mexican army. He listened very attentive- ) all ;ve had ;o say, . e mentioned our hopes cC marriage. However, wo recpmmer, .ded Ju.aa as a guide, and the peon was er.gaged at once, at a salary so large that he played monte Tor a week re his first month s wages were exhausted. Th3 commodore was here joined by Genera" i. \-arir. and i c >mpany of Waited States dragoons, having marched oven-ma Tren commenced the formation of a force that was destined to end the war in California. The j furnishecVSvc hundred Bailors and marines, and six pieces of artillery, "3 advance en Lcs Angeles, ard let me here state that the Americans I the Mexicans at the Rio San Gabrie , ab-ut one hundred ; ad twenty -go, on the nth of January, 1847, won a bat.le, and en- B Pueblo in triumph. General Flores and his cavalry fl d, fell into \he uond.* of Colonel Frcirrr.t,jocar San Fernanc \ ir.d ! it \ is the end r.tro rrsy between the naval co.nmodores, General Kearney and Colonel Fremont. Thire -.^c.- 1 constant quarrels/ uncalled for an-i unseemly, but that is a matter ot history oi record, and docc rot eoncen my yarn, so I shall not espouse ciihei side, lor it would help no one at this late day. While the expedition was fiiting out there was such auemand for good horses that Commodore Stockton offered us three hundred dolu r s each for our animals and equipments. It cost us * bitter pang to part from t\vo such noble maslan^s, but we could tot use them any longer, or carry them with us, so accepted the raoney, and Ju^c was continued in charge of the steeds until Los Angeles was reached. While the preparations were going on the schooner dlL ornia drifted in to the harbor, on her way to Mazatland, with a few Mexicans v/ho had ob- tained permission to leave the country, and stop at the latter port, then in possession of the Americans. Captain Coopc? was flying the United States Hag, and had a pass from the commodore to exempt his vessel from capture; 5n case some of our national ships might overhaul him on the ocean. We suggested to Captain Cooper that .we should like to take passage with him, Lewey and T. me from Mazatland quicker than from Califor- 1 for Boston, or any other port. The his lor. :i said he shouli be delighted tD have us forc -etJSare -?uld stand his watch. f or hc w , op awake nights. Hut he added lhat we ,, om Commodore Stockton, as he running mailers to -If in a" t^in^s appertaining to California the schooner. We waited on the naval officer, and stated what we dcs:. and he did not hc-itate a moment <o grant our request, at the same time t that we should do much better by remaining with him, and accepting positions that t.e thought the sccictary of tl uld confirm upon his recommendations. But v:e once more declined the tempt- :ne time thanking the commodore for his kindness. Ve had some small boxes made, marked them <c minerals,", and p ... a u our r . ) ore but Captain Fitch uncwing their, trut value, for uold w.:s a most un:. ^ive state, except a little dus* at Los Angeles, in those days. The boxes we shipped on board rmer, put :n out of sight, and the day the armed expedition started old Califon/a sailed for the lower part of the coast. There were only six Mcxirar. passengers, ladies and gentlcrr !y located. We took a kind farewell of all oui fric left in Captain Fitch s hands the sum of one thousand dollars for the benefit of Scotch Jack, and when we told him what we had done the honest old tar shed tears, and jworc that he would not take the money, but thong it better of it after a while, ac-*c; -csent, and much good it did him in old he needed a shot in the locker. ,c California drifted oat past Ballast Point Jack and some of the peo- on the b-j->-:h fired iruskets as a salute, and Lewcy and I f iUIljfcl ^yL^rff--^ 1 * ftrtft1 - * f * nr v1 the compliment by three ies of Darks, and the last we saw of San Diego Bay the sailors and ma- :conthc : he hide-house people were drinking our health Scotchman was straini: -?s to get the .ce he ever had cf his two >t)ung sh rpmates to whom he had acted a itbt. is we cleared Point Lon thick kelp, with a strong r. . " I did n t sleep K -cp the old craft moving on about a southwest by south cc .! clear cv iiitle 5. I 11 turn ia for a nap. Call me if there is anything strange- 400 Lewey and L and new, and oo unless there is. There are some islands o X the coast, and our course brings us near them. Keep /our eyes peeled, ar-l u on t rua over them, for there is room enougt for all of us." And ihe old gentleman tumbled into his berth, all standing, and d : d not \vake up until the next forenoon, when he declared that he felt like a new ty-four hours of solid sleep. not think that in all California there -was a kinder hearted man than -per, h:e Mexicanizcd American. It \\^s related of him thai at one time he employed a greastr to look after onj of his ranches, and the fellow old most of the cattle, and put the money on th.? wrong card at monte. Captain Cooper had the Mexican arrested, he was tried and con victed, and sentenced to six mo-iths in a ch:-in-gang. When his time ex pired he called upor; his old employer and askeo for a:d, with all the assur ance of a be*T<!-. * i a real," roarrd the admiral. I am poor, and in need of clothes," pleaded the Mexican greuifr, and ii Cooper did n t take the rascal home, fit him out with a complete dress, gave him five silver dollars, and ended by once more putting the half-breed back on the fr.m, wher.-. he i^ain s f c!e cattle, as a matter of course. This is hut iambic of the generosity of the old salt, and yet I think he <iied quite well off in the State of his adoption ^o.ue years since. Lewey p- .u I sto<d watch 2~.c, watch, fcr there \?ere no first or second of ficers on boii-o, and the sailers obeyed our orders if they felt like it, anr! re fused if they did not. However, we hit on a plan that secured fespect and prompt obedience. Tr * : were several casks of aguardiente among the cargo, and we pumr^J cat OP* or two buckets full a week, bottled it, and then promised in* . --n liberal tots of grog at the end of the watch if they would S:eep a good lookout ahead, and make and take in sail quickly, The temptation wzs so grea> that we had no more trouble on the voyage, the fear of not cutting the 1 quor prompting the sailors to be active and vigilant, We kept c!ead reckoning all the way, yet once in a while the captain vrould take a noon observation, then cat his dinner, and have r. sicsM., again retiring quietly at eight bells in the evening, and although the vi,-vJ might blow, and the vessel roll, and the sails slap, the okl man never los*. ^r hour s sleep, for there was no waking him up until morning. In the meantime Lewey and I enjoyed ourrelvjs with the Udy and gentle men passengers as soon as they ot on their sea-legs. W t and hear them converse for an hour at a time, acd while they were Leivey and L 401 enough toriislik to admit that C ;incl increase in popuirtion much faster could hcpt for. three weeks running down to Maratland, ar a serious disaster. There were several of our national ships lying there, the tow:: being in possession of the Americans. We vere boarded bef* dropp- , but the piss of Commodore Stockton was respected, so we entered ; :!ir inner harbor, *- bcrc we were secure from southwestc; foun<3 ojnelvrs dcse to the to\vn, and the United State:- flag floating over all the public b . -lciings and presio i^. The : T ^twey and I went on srore for a many men-of-war ;; men and marines encountered, none too sober, that we did not care to remain but : short time. We .earned that there was an English clipper bark, the Helena, c f . London, Captain Henry Th lying in the outer haib-^r, ail loadcu, ono ready t^ .r England. By some iv.eir.s the crmittcd l.y the ,-,r.val r ties to take -. of logw. .tc of M.~ How ii was acccmpl . vcr kr.ew, but suppose through f. Just as we were ready to return \o our vessel Captain T norr. large, fi .:*. gentlemanly person came to tio landing, in company of tScVhooner CaHfornia. H T e wer: intr , juced, :. quested the piivilege of taking passage in he Helena for London, t! expeditions manner of returning home ,ey and myself. C Thornton invited us to go oo bt d c-ith him, and see wh ? accommoda- (ions t)itr they ^c-k ,i. i US. \ e did so, ( Joop^l . While being pulled to the vessel cs of the bo/k, Captain Cooper .was pleasec to say so mar. words in our behatf that Captain Thornton became quite affa j e, aad : certainly go with him if re wcrt satisfied wit!, rooms as he xras able to place at our disposal, and even consented to take Jack, the c! t extra charge, as he liked :s our- sclv The Helena ras only about six h :s burden, and a model as tht Admittance, but she carried more men, a crew of thorough 1 four apprf ntires, one c.f the biter brjnj; the only son of the owner of the vesst, ;e the rest of ;he lads, co better a.-vJ no worse, 5nd did not presume to put on airs t OQ account of his parent s wealth. 402 Lewey and L We foun-; vo lafee; vacant staterooms, much letter than we hoped for, an I vrhiie supping \viili CapUin Th \ to his terms for pr<-. \j t.vo hundred dollars each, \v\i\r\i W3S q L MU reason- al i :. thought ourselves lucky to secure such quarte;?. We had money enough 10 afford luxu.ics, and had no : >r. -A ic .i-.j. ica.nii s duty whih homeward bound. (.lay we tia.isfeired our luggage and boxes of m l^ra!^ :q,the Hcleni, stowed everything out of sight so as not to excite commert, went. on shore and paid our passage mono/ to the consigner?, purchased a sup ply of cigars, tobacco, and other luxuries lhat would prove acceptably and the folio. ving day the Helena up anchor, and we stood to the .* with a fresh I id th. .jorfhwest, and the best wishes ol ii the naval of ficers we had met. Captain Cooper remained or. boird unl 1 &c !^t mo ment, and then bit his maimed hand, anJ bade us ^Go:i-b>. We ie;":r saw the gallant old gentleman a s V. .. He d ; ed in California some ye? -sago, respected and loved by all who knew him. I have not the space to relate many incidcn.o . -I our . vyage h..me. It was a la?v life lewey *nd I led, with nothing to ^2. able ID sieep ac night,, and not obliged to turn v*t to > 2-:f t: v r -aiL r; furl them. V."^ h?-I a good crew, nice mates, and c. very di.jnlil.-c anu jolly cr. jt^ n. That is, he was clever and kind, but knew his position and maintained it. e/::epton S?.lurdi.y eights, when he threw off his rfiscrvc, r.n] rver a Lewi of punch told stories, s?.". son^ c . toast--"! ^wee-iitartv aid wives, and poked fan Levey inri .nyse.i b jcaus; N^ were French and Yanke: V-*L c d not drink as rr.uch as suited his ideas of a jolly time, but the master couU take portion and never grumble, so wa go* abng v<rry well. On fct/ss vessel ; was served out to the rnen at eight l.fils (noon) every day, and a . i tot was also given cv-ry time topsails were reefed. To keep iron? rusting once "n a while Lewey and I would lend a hand in tp.Ling in sail off Cape Hor;), .nd thrn ii-sist that we were entitled to c;lice the mainbriice like the rest TLj steward always allowed our cbim, and wf y/ould pass the liq nc of the old men-cf-ua/ c ucn, much to their delight On the v/hoie it was; a pleasant passive. \Ve had the usca) amount c: rougii ?.nd col .l veathcr off Cape Horn, but there was ;-. the cabin, so we diii not mind it much. Our vessel was fast, t!ie wihJ i ble, and we soon left tl c Pacific Ocean, cnter^i : ,- A*i north, and on the first cky of Jutv I Lnd, took a pilot, ar.d arriTcd at t"c entrance gate ot London L>o.k thrtc- dj.y.=? a.i crwitd. Lewey .and I found modest but cc igs pear Mile End, and Lewey and f. 403 as soc: sold our gold for just ten thousand five hundred . came tc exchange all of our fun, . .loney dollars each, n . :cj in life, v/iih but could Then \.z.mc up a serious question. We had tried not to t . ject, and as just often as it disturbed our minds we had pushed UK torn one side Ft was thir how soon befor* Lcwcy and I Q knew i i go*, fj separate, but each dread e and so we would think of past adventures, sigh, an : walk, the sights of London, w!.ich we saw for the first time, and. under favorable auspices, for Captain Thornton was our guide and council- his r.dvice that we deposited our safe bank, so that v.e could not be deprived 01 it i " Lewey," I r.c .-ec! ont d.ty " when are you going home ? ;i you goc- \\& ~.ie, not afore," was f he - jn him all I mi^ht that was the only reply I receive:!. I reasoned with my friend, I talked to hii i ta.r. oclcss m, and so at last I consented to pay a visit to Havre- de-Gracc, and see his father and mother/- Then I wrote a ! guardian ind friends in I3os f o n , the firr*. for more t ir, and one morniiig Lewey and i took the steamer, and 1 h rench soil. Lewc} was not enthusiastic as he stepped or* shore. He seemed a litll; dazed, dt-.ccted, and i think wished himself once more in California, care less and fr. .rj have such feelings, especially those who \\a:; over 1 the globe, and cooic home for a wclcon.e, yet dread to meet it for some unaccountable reason, and the ocnsc jccti -ar off for sereral days. "Thoin," said Lewey, as we walked up the dock toward a corlee-nousc, part dink of me a.-, ve vere ven boys together, full of vigor and dc true frirr/Jship vot skall neber die in mJoe heart. Remember di al de <" ra you vai homesick and shed de tears, and I takes your volch, and hums de song to make you dink I - >er don you, and r. 3re like dc crying den on cat and I \ish ve vas hock a^in, .->nd if )ou say de vord ve \, o^ me no more." > a cate and called for some coffee and a IK re, and there I talked to my friend for an hour or more < of returning to California, and by the time f had concluded \\e wtre t 404 Lewey and 7. tears, and Lcwey bid made up his mind to go and see his parents. They lived a short distance culside of the city, an . voitusc he left me, promising Co return as soon as possible. I waited for him until neatly c! ,:":,-, p; s:!n;, in*-, best way that I could, for it was dull work for LI-:-. The r , he cr ":e Sp. corrp^cy xvilh a tall, white-haired gentleman, v/ho bj. bis leoks * knev, was Lcwey ^ father. *! tas a surprise , v -iy friend said, 4/ and icarly kill de muddcr and de sister, s;ch a pretty gir), and vill do just for you, and u y v vi vil! fall in love and marry her, I happy can be." " Speak French, Louis," said th"e father. " Remember I am not an Eng lish rch;, lrr i\c^ you and your companion." s glad the gentlewin did no t u^ -e -stand >ny irlond, for .bis speech pia-ie me blush, it being tJ je first intimation I had received from Lcwey that he owned a sister. In fact she was so small when he left home for a wao- tiering life that he had not considered her of the slightes . consequence, but now, when he returned, and saw what a beautiful girl she was, 1 e began to eel proud of her. era 1 Arten?.t i :>, my fr r.d 5 Oilier, a soldier \vl:: lom.nanded one of the forts ot the city, gave me a cordial welcom.-, and an invitation to take up my residence at his chateau, three miles from the town, and on a bluff that overlooked the ccean and English Channel. As the request was not one of courtesy alone, but sincere in every respect, 1 complied. Jack and I entered the carriage, a porter look ig jfter our lu^gp.ge, and we were soon at the house, one of the most imposing and c *.c?us that I saw on the road. General Artenato had so many questions to ask the son about his travels, that I rlid not interrupt their conversation. It v>*zz evident that the wan dering sailor boy had b^en forgiven, and ec<_< ntricittes fo/gotten. lie had suffered enough hardships without now being taken ij lisk for his folly. Lewcy had spoken of me in terms of praise, I could : , the defer ence with which his fa hir treated me, and his should feel quite at my case in hL d : ^nitkc! presence, but v:lcn I was presented to the ;litei,ancl the for:.. .1 my neck and I me, I knew that she was labor! I had . an^el to her boy, ai ife and good throu. .<! I did not deem it jdst seventeen f age, reccnl , t school, gave ire her hand in the most confiding maaiicr, arid I!K. idoess, but s:iU she and 7. 405 did , K .cc to sec what Lind of roan her she raised her dark eyes they met ny glance of a I flushed, and acted more like a school-boy than a seer, so mrc!>. orld. This exhib: mode?- :;glued Lewey that he laughed, arid said, j to his relatives in Frenc friend under all kinds of difficulties, as he danced - senoritas, . her he pretended to save the lives of young giJs, and den i: trouble, but this ha f 2 ever knrw him to blush," rn-i the.i he laughed, and his mother eluded him* for his rudeness, -vhile the young lady walked to the windo cd out upon the sea, and probably wondered why sailors werc .; of tlieir reputations, and bold toward women. The r.ener- al did not appear to think that a few kisses were of much accent, for like a real Frenchman he asked, : jl?* Bo echoed T. r^7 v "They arc the haridso,Y>,sl women in the world, ccepting my mother and sister. Why, we were near marry- ladles, whose eyes were blaclc as midnight, and hair trailed , ..-> return home kept us ( LC-A ; eared to r she left t! nt, and I was glad of it, if my friend VMS (0 continue the convcrrction in the same strain. to my room, made i;Ie I Lewey joined me. old friend," he asked, "vet dees you dink of d.it sister of min: Ho B English to me when i more convenient, and lr better thin his French. "Sh-: is very handsome," I sail, and that appeared to much pleasure. dat chc is good as *he is booful. Now if you prcat fool y u cr.a m.irry her, and dcr. No more \ . no more sea life, and vid money ftcou , desire?" -, moment I rang, and we w- and I had 406 Lewey, and I. and sat by her side all through the dinner. She was a little shy of me at first, but when she did find courage the questions came from her mouth quite as fast as I could answer them. I told her all about Lewey s friend ship, how we had clung to each other for more thar four years, our advenv tures in California, the persecutions we had endured at the hands of Anto nio Sanchcs and his brothers, the battles we had witnessed and participated in, the wild Indians we had killed, the ladies whose lives we had saved at the risk of our own, but not one word of the love-making or kissing her brother had alluded to. In fact I became so eloquent .under the influence of a single glass of champagne that I forgot there was any one present to listen to me except the young lady, and when I happened to look up, and saw that father, moth er, son, and daughter were paying strict attention to what I said, broke down, and suddenly ceased speaking, too . much embarrassed to finish my narrative in bad French, which no one had the impoliteness to laugh at. ." Please continue, monsieur," the young lady pleaded, but I had said enough for one night. " You will relate some more adventures to me tomorrow? n mademoiselle asked, as we arose from the table, and she gave me a most fascinating smile. "With great pleasure," I answered, "if your kind mother does not object." " She will never refuse as long as you continue to praise my brother. He has always been her pet in spite of his wildness," and then we sepa rated for the night, and I dreamed of Anira and Engracia, the Ranche Refugio, and the dead girls faces appeared to reproach me for for^ them so soon. But the living and not the dead were in my mind the next morning \ awoke. For a long time after I had bathed and dressed I stood at the window of my chamber, and looked out upon the sea, and thought ot the future, and asked myself a serious question, but the answer was not ready for some weel-s. I struggled and fought against the ebb tide that iting me toward a dangerous shoal, but the time c.ime when I could no longer resist, and then the flood came, and drifted me into the harbor of happiness, to the entire satisfaction of Lewcy, his parents, and dear liule sister. I do not know how it came about. Perhaps Rose loved me, like Desdc- for the dangers through which I hiid passed, or because of the at- Lcwcy and I. 407 f her brother, and his desire that I should be a broiler in feeling. I only realized that one day she placed her hand in mine, and said that she was happy in the love of an honest man, and then there was a year of paradise, and such bliss as rarely falls to the lot of -us poor mort Then there came ablaek cloud, and I saw a pale, wan, face, a faint smile, felt a little kiss on my lips, and knew no rflpre for many weeks, for there was a blank in my life. When reason returned the first persor. Lewey, seated at my bedside, holding one of my hands, and showing the compassion he felt in his expressive eyes, while Jack was lying on the floor and regarding me with mute looks of pity, such as only a faithful dog can sbo-Ar for one it loves. "Thorn, my brudder," Lewey whispered, "you vill be a man now dat you is most vc l ? " I could not reply, but turned my face to the wall, and tears fell from my eyes in torrents as my thoughts went back to the past. 44 Do you remember de old times in California," Lewey said, very softly, " ven vc vas free from care, always in de mischief, and inclined to dink dat dings vas rough for us ? Yet ve alvays come out on de top, because de good God directed all for de best. He has done so in dis case. It is hard for, you, and de rest of us, but He ordered it, and ve must not repine." Some weeks afterward I was enabled to leave my chamber, a premature ly old young man, bent and weak with grief. Every one was very patient .e and kind, but I could no longer remain where so many things re minded me of my lost wife and child. I returned to Boston, settled up af- th my guardian, and for eight years traveled in ever) part of the giobe. The wound healed at last, but the scar remains. In one corner of the cemetery at Havre is a sir marble : Bearing the simple inscription, " Ros: It tells its own story more eloquently than w<yds. Kind hands on each anniv of death place upon the cold marble a wreath of lilies, cmWematical life of the dead when living. God must have been mercit al to her, she was so good. OPIE READ S NOVELS HANDSOME NEW EDITIONS Mr. Read s Famous Stories It is perhaps because Opie Read writ-, the people and for the people that his books are more and more in demand each year, and this popular-priced edition of his Exclusive Cop^ i Works will meet a want that has become almost a necessity. 44 Turkey Egg" Griffin The Harkriders The Starbucks The Carpetbagger (Dramatized) The JUCklinS (Dramatized) Old Ebenezer My Young Master A Kentucky Colonel E^^IBH Len Qansett On the Suwanee River The Wives of the Prophet hi A Tennessee Judge The Colossus Emmett Bonlore This new edition is full-size 12mo, printed on special stock, and substantially bound. These 14 titles embrace the cream of Mr. Read s writings, and will be a valuable acquisit on to any library, for the appearance and g worth will give purchasers thorough satisfaction. .Bound uniformly in vellum de luxe cloth, each o, or cnt, r LAIRD & LEE, Publishers, 363065 Wabash AVC., CHICAGO UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY BERKELEY Return to desk from which borrowed. This book is DUE on the last date stamped below. I MATH-STAT. LIBRARY 954 REC D LD APR 2 8 64 -4PM LD 21-100m-9 l 48(B399sl6)476 ; 1 3 I960 FEB 4 1330 BC.C1L MAY 4W1 9146t>0 THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY