19G CALIFORNIA. 



it, is wanting, and the indolence of the people seems an insuperable bar 

 to it. Senora 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 

 nio;ht. 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, 



