484 HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA. 



districts. I shall soon visit the valleys of the Sacra- 

 mento and San Joaquin, and hope to be able to report 

 upon the true state of affairs there by the August 

 steamer. As Congress has declined passing any laws 

 restricting the working of the placers, I shall not 

 deem myself authorized to interfere in this matter, any 

 further than may be necessary to preserve the public 

 tranquillity. Indeed there is much reason to believe 

 that Congress has pursued the best policy, under the 

 circumstances, in leaving the placers open to all; for 

 it would be exceedingly difficult to enforce any regula- 

 tions not absolutely required by the necessity of the 

 case, and it is more than probable that any attempt 

 at this time to rent out the mineral lands, or to tax 

 their products, would involve a great expense, and it 

 is quite possible that such an attempt would lead to 

 very serious difficulties. Of the large numbers who 

 have been attracted to this country by the flattering 

 prospect of sudden wealth, and with the intention of 

 returning to their former homes to enjoy their gains, 

 many foreigners as well as Americans are becoming 

 established in business, and will make California their 

 permanent place of residence. It is therefore well 

 worthy of serious consideration whether the present 

 system may not prove equally beneficial with that of 

 a more exclusive policy. It certainly conduces much 

 towards developing the resources of the country, ex- 

 tending its commerce, and rapidly augmenting its 

 wealth and population. As soon as I have made a 

 personal examination of the gold regions, I shall be 

 prepared to express my views on this subject ; but I 

 cannot omit the present occasion to urge upon the 

 government the importance of establishing a mint in 

 California, with the least possible delay. 



