STEEP TRAILS 



so very high after all, nor so very white; the 

 snow is in patches like rags spread out to dry," 

 reminding one of Sydney Smith's joke against 



Jeffrey, ''D n the Solar System; bad light, 



planets too indistinct." But far the greater 

 number are in good spirits, showing the influ- 

 ence of holiday enjoyment and mountain air. 

 Fresh roses come to cheeks that long have been 

 pale, and sentiment often begins to blossom 

 under the new inspiration. 



The Shasta region may be reserved as a 

 national park, with special reference to the 

 preservation of its fine forests and game. This 

 should by all means be done; but, as far as 

 game is concerned, it is in little danger from 

 tourists, notwithstanding many of them carry 

 guns, and are in some sense hunters. Going in 

 noisy groups, and with guns so shining, they 

 are oftentimes confronted by inquisitive Doug- 

 las squirrels, and are thus given opportunities 

 for shooting; but the larger animals retire at 

 their approach and seldom are seen. Other 

 gun people, too wise or too lifeless to make 

 much noise, move slowly along the trails and 

 about the open spots of the woods, like be- 

 numbed beetles in a snowdrift. Such hunters 

 are themselves hunted by the animals, which 

 in perfect safety follow them out of curiosity. 



During the bright days of midsummer the 

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