264 HISTORY OP CALIFORNIA. 



been of permanent benefit. Like the water of a 

 rapid river, which, meeting with a serious obstacle in 

 its course, is checked for the moment and then, having 

 gathered new strength, surmounts the barrier and 

 springs forward with renewed energy, San Francisco 

 has pursued her course. The late fire, decidedly the 

 most disastrous the new city has experienced, produced 

 for awhile a general stand in business. But the go- 

 aheadative principle was too strong for a continuance 

 of a stagnation ; and all the sufferers -set about doing 

 their utmost to retrieve their fortunes. Success must 

 wait upon such persevering energy. 



Sacramento City is fast treading upon the heels of 

 her commercial sister city. Improvements are con 

 stantly being made to the appearance of the city and 

 the comfort of its inhabitants. A levee is in course 

 of construction, which, it is thought, will effectually 

 protect the city from being flooded during the season 

 of the rise of the river. The overland emigration 

 of which Sacramento is the goal, contributes to swell 

 the population rapidly ; and, during the rainy season, 

 the greater portion of the population of the northern 

 mines flock into the city for refuge till the digging 

 Beason commences. 



Stockton, Benicia, San Josd, and Sutter are each 

 increasing the number of their residents and their 

 trade very fast. The first is the depot of the south 

 ern mines ; the second, the military and naval station, 

 chosen by the government officers ; the third is the 

 capital of the State ; the last is a thriving town, near 

 Sacramento, but in a better situation. 



One of the most interesting features of California 

 is the number of the missions in various parts of the 

 State. They are and will continue to be interesting, 



