Russian, and, although early struggles and heavy
responsibilities and many disappointments had de-
prived life of much of its early savor, what was left
of youth in him responded to the ambition he divined
in this interesting stranger. Moreover, the idea of
a friendly bond with another race on the lonely
coast of the Pacific appealed to him irresistibly. He
turned eagerly to the Governor.

"It is a fine idea, Excellency. We need much
that they have, and it pleases me to think we should
be able to supply the wants of others. Fancy any
one wanting aught of California, except hides, to
be sure. I did not think our existence was known
save to an occasional British or Boston skipper. It
is true we are here only to Christianize savages, but
even they have need of much that cannot be manu-
factured in this God-forsaken land. And we our-
selves could be more comfortable--God in heaven,
yes! It is well to think it over, Excellency. Who
knows?--we might have a trip to the north once
in a while. Life is more excellent with something
to look forward to."

"You should have a royal welcome. Baranhov is
the most hospitable man in Russia, and I might have
the happiness to be there myself. I see, by the way,
that you have not engaged in shipbuilding. I need
not say that we should supply the ships of com-
merce, with no diminution of your profits. We build