106 
CALIFORNIA. 
it, is wanting, and the indolence of the people seems an insuperable bar 
to it. Seilora Richardson shows the marks of former beauty, which 
her daughter has inherited, and is said to be the handsomest woman in 
all California. I had the honour of seeing them when I returned Cap¬ 
tain 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 invita¬ 
tion 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 entertainment 
passed off well, the dancing having continued the greater part of the 
night. The Californians must be ranked next to the Chilenos for their 
love of this amusement. The refreshment consisted principally of 
strong drinks. Senor Martinez is looked upon as one of the aristo¬ 
crats 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. 
Upon paper, Zonoma is a large city, and laid out according to the 
most approved plan. In reality, however, it consists of only the follow¬ 
ing buildings: General Vallejo’s house, built of adobes, of two stories, 
