He fears these Yankees.
Joy reigns at Lagunitas! A heartfelt welcome awaits the priest, a
rapturous greeting for Don Miguel. The grassy Alamedas are starred
with golden poppies. Roses adorn the garden walks of the young wife.
Her pensive eyes have watched the valley anxiously for her lord.
Padre Francisco hastens to consecrate the chapel. The Virgin
Mother spreads her sainted arms on high. A school for the Indians
soon occupies the priest.
Months roll around. The peace and prosperity of the rancho are
emulated by the new station in the valley.
Don Miguel rides over the mountains often in the duties of his
position. Up and down the inland basin bronzed horsemen sweep over
the untenanted regions, locating new settlements. San Joaquin valley
slowly comes under man's dominion.
Patriot, pioneer, and leader, the Commandante travels from Sutter's
Fort to Los Angeles. He goes away light-hearted. The young wife
has a bright-eyed girl to fondle when the chief is in the saddle.
Happiness fills the parents' hearts. The baptism occasions the
greatest feast of Lagunitas. But, from the coast, as fall draws
near, rumors of trouble disturb the San Joaquin.
Though the Russians are about to leave the seacoast, still
Swiss Sutter has taken foothold on the Sacramento.
Pages:
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59