forty-eight geese and eight ducks; at another several elk and deer were wounded; and when our ammunition was expended, a whole herd of elk passed me within ten yards.
Having completed our connexion with the Blossom's Survey up to Yerba Buena, we reached the Sulphur on the 24th November; having been absent altogether on this interesting but harassing service thirty-one days.
As far as navigation is concerned, the Sacramento affords every facility for small craft as high up as the "Fork;" but I cannot at present perceive any advantage to be derived from taking large vessels above the Starling's position, or even above the creek at the mouth of the Estrecho Karquines, which communicates with the mission of San Jose, and which, until settlements are made above, will be the extent of traffic, excepting for timber.
Taking into consideration the whole port of San Francisco, the Sacramento, and minor streams, there is immense field for capital, if the government could protect its citizens or those inclined to reside. At this moment (December, 1837) they are reduced to almost their extreme gasp; harassed by their own servants (who are natives) deserting and carrying off their property; threatened by the Delawares, who have piratically ranged the country, taking away horses and cattle; disturbed by their late declaration and recantation of independence; they sadly want the interposition of some powerful friend
