CALIFORNIA. 209 



of it, is wanting, and the indolence of the people seems an insu- 

 perable bar to it. Senora Richardson shows the marks of former 

 beauty, which her daughter has inherited, and is said to be the hand- 

 somest woman in all California. I had the honour of seeing them 

 when I returned Captain Richardson's call, and they were, in the 

 Spanish style of beauty, quite deserving of the reputation they had 

 acquired. 



Captain Richardson did what he could to afford amusement for the 

 officers, and during the visit of Senor Martinez to the ship, an invi- 

 tation to a dance was accepted by some of them. Although the 

 house was small, yet they made out to pass the evening with great 

 hilarity, Senor Martinez dancing with two of his grand-daughters — 

 one on each arm. The group of musicians it was thought might 

 have sat for the portraits of Roman soldiers. The evening's enter- 

 tainment passed off well, the dancing having continued the greater 

 part of the night. The Californians must be ranked next to the Chi- 

 lenos for their love of this amusement. The refreshment consisted 

 principally of strong drinks. Senor Martinez is looked upon as one of 

 the aristocrats of the country. Much deference is paid to his opinion, 

 and an alliance with his family is much sought after. The old lady 

 exercises a matronly care over her daughters, and has them ever under 

 her watchful eye. Captain Richardson's daughter, though only 

 seventeen, is so famed for her beauty and attractions, that she has 

 several avowed suitors. Courtships are here conducted somewhat in 

 an old-fashioned manner. The suitor is obliged to avow himself and 

 receive permission to visit. All who visit the estancia near Pinole 

 will meet with that warm reception and kind treatment that Senor 

 Martinez, his lady, and family, are so remarkable for. 



On the opposite side of the bay of San Pablo, or to the west, are 

 some of the finest tracts of country in California. One of these is 

 called the Valley of Nappa, another that of Zonoma, and a third, San 

 Rafael. In Zonoma is situated the town of the same name, the 

 residence of General Vallejo, and the mission of San Rafael. The 

 fertile country extends across to Ross and Bodega, the two Russian 

 settlements before spoken of. Zonoma is the seat of government, and 

 is situated in an extensive plain, with some high hills for its southern 

 boundary. The plain is covered with fine oaks, and there is a never- 

 failing stream of water passing through it. There is besides an 

 inlet from the bay, which allows a boat navigation to it of about 

 twelve miles. 



vol. v. 53 



