30 THE TRUCKEE AND HUMBOLDT VALLEYS. 
possible industrial value. Among the smaller plants a spe- 
cies of mint is common, and a hemp from which the Pi-Ute 
Indians make their bow strings. There is also a highly or- 
namental species of sunflower (Helianthus), well worthy of 
eultivation, as its smaller and more brilliant flowers render it 
more attractive than the grosser garden form. The Mexican 
Poppy (Argemone Mexicana), is occasionally seen, and a 
thistle, which 1 consider unequalled in beauty. The deli- 
cately cut leaves look as if formed of silver, and the flower 
resembles a paint-brush charged with scarlet lake. I have 
before mentioned the fine groves of cottonwoods, but in 
addition to these a fringe of willows is often found along the 
stream, and a inigunbeid thicket of “Buffalo berry” (Shep- 
herdia argentea), Roses (Rosa blanda) , and other shrubbery. 
The bright berries of the Shepherdia and scarlet lips of the 
rose present a pleasing appearance, contrasted, as they are, 
with the silvery leaves of the former plant. When the roses 
are in bloom the effect must be even more charming. 
Near Hunter’s Station the river flows through exten- 
sive meadows producing abundance of hay and vegetables. 
The native grasses are mostly grown, but our own well- 
known “Timothy” (Phleum pratense), has been introduced 
to some extent, and is always much prized. This valley and 
that of the Carson form decidedly the richest portion of the 
state. The meadows are bounded by Washoe Peak, an out- 
lying spur of the Sierra, by the Pea-vine mountains (so-called 
from the frequency with which the lupines or wild peas are 
met with on its sides), and a range lying to the east on which 
is situated Virginia City. That town, however, is not visi- 
ble from the river. Washoe Peak is of very great height, 
and frequently shows snow upon its summit even in mid- 
summer. It is a splendid mountain in form and color, and 
is especially admirable when the clouds which droop over its 
snowy sides, are suffused with California's own golden tints. 
After leaving this fertile valley, the Truckee enters a narrow 
gorge between high rocky hills, often beautiful in the colors 
