24 THE TOURIST'S CALIFORNIA erras) are more accustomed to the presumptions of our extravagant coinage. A list of principal banks in the chief tourist towns of California is given at the rear of this volume. The Travellers' Cheques issued by relia- ble banks, tourist agencies and express companies are a safe and convenient means of carrying funds. When properly countersigned these cheques are usually accepted in payment of bills as readily as currency. Those who do not make use of such cheques will find it advantageous to have their local banker cer- tify to their signature before leaving home. This precaution will avoid possible delays and incon- venience. Language and Names. The Spaniards bequeathed little of material use to present-day California beyond a few acres planted to olive and grape and a legacy of names. St. James and St. Joseph, St. Peter, St. Michael, St. Agnes and St. Louis the Bishop stepped from their saintly calendar at the Fathers' behest to beautify sites which were barren enough at the time of their baptising. For the English equivalents we read San Diego and San Jose, San Pedro, San Miguel, Santa Ynez and San Luis Obispo. The Gate becomes in California El Portal ; The Wild Cats, Los Gatos ; the Hot Spring, Agua Caliente ;
