One curious fact
appears. All of the bandits chased south toward Monterey or Los
Angeles are finally driven to bay, killed, or scattered as fugitives.
In the middle regions, the organization of the Mexican murderers
seems to be aided by powerful friends. They evidently furnish news,
supplies, and give concealment to these modern butchers. They are
only equalled by the old cutthroats of the Spanish main.
A meeting of citizens is called at Stockton. It is privately held,
for fear of betrayal. Maxime Valois is, as usual, in the van. His
knowledge of the country and his renown as a member of Fremont's
party fit him to lead. A secret organization is perfected. The
sheriff of the county is made head of it. He can use the power
of posse and his regular force. The plundered merchants agree to
furnish money as needed. Maxime Valois is needed as the directing
brain. In study over news and maps, the result proves that the
coast and south are only used for the sale of stock or for refuge.
The extreme north of the State shows no prey, save the starving
Klamath Indians. It is true the robbers never have cursed the
upper mountains. Their control sweeps from Shasta to Sonoma, from
Marysville and Nevada as far as the gates of Sacramento, and down
to the Livermore Pass.
Pages:
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187