192 
CALIFORNIA. 
The Indians have several rancherias around New Helvetia. Their 
lodges are all somewhat like low haycocks, being composed of a 
framework of sticks, thatched with the bulrush. In these there was 
no excavation, neither were they covered with earth ; these dwellings 
were at the time deserted by the Indians, who were found encamped 
about half a mile nearer the river, with but a few boughs and mats to 
shelter them. The latter are manufactured after the manner that has 
been described as used by the Indians of Oregon. 
At the rancheria, the men are generally found engaged in various 
games of chance, similar to those before described; it is not believed, 
however, that they carry their gambling propensities to such an 
extent as to stake their liberty. On the women, all the drudgery 
seems to be thrown. They were seen engaged in weaving water¬ 
tight baskets: these are very neatly made, of sufficient capacity to 
hold a bushel, and in these it is said they contrive to boil water and 
cook their food. 
In the preparation of the acorn-bread all assist. The acorns are 
gathered in very large quantities, piled in heaps, and spread in the sun 
to dry. Both men and women are to be seen employed shelling, 
pounding, and baking them into bread: the pounding is performed upon 
a plank that has been hollowed out, with a stone pestle. To reduce the 
large quantity to a fine powder, requires great labour. This employ¬ 
ment presents a busy scene, though the want of cleanliness, I may 
almost say pig-like filthiness with which it is performed, excites 
disgust. 
INDIANS POUNDING ACORNS. 
Around New Helvetia, although but a few days had elapsed since 
