His cottage stands on
a commanding lot, bought some time before.
Letters from "Belle Etoile" delight the wanderer. He learns of the
well-being of his friends. Judge Valois' advice to Maxime decides
him to cast his lot in with the new State. It is soon to be called
California by legal admission.
Philip Hardin is a leader of the embryo bar of the city. Courts,
books, two newspapers and the elements of a mercantile community
are the newest signs of a rapid crystallization toward order. With
magic strides the boundaries of San Francisco enlarge. Every day
sees white-winged sails fluttering. Higher rises the human tumult.
From the interior mines, excited reports carry away half the
arrivals. They are eager to scoop up the nuggets, to gather the
golden dust. New signs attract the eye: "Bank," "Hotel," "Merchandise,"
"Real Estate." Every craft and trade is represented. It is the
vision of a night.
Already a leader, Hardin daily extends his influence as man,
politician, and counsellor.
The great game is being played at the nation's capital for the last
sanction to the baptism of the new star in the flag.
California stands knocking at the gates of the Union, with
treasure-laden hands. In Congress the final struggle on admission
drags wearily on.
Pages:
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141