To his alarm, Don Miguel sees the Indians becoming treacherous.
He discovers they make voyages to the distant posts, where they
obtain guns and ammunition.

In view of danger, the Commandante trains his men. The old soldier
sighs to think that the struggle may break out between divided
factions of native Californians. The foreigners may gain foothold
in California while its real owners quarrel.

The second winter at Lagunitas gives way to spring. Rapidly
increasing herds need for their care all the force of the ranch.

From the coast plentiful supplies provided by the Commandante
arrive. With them comes the news of the return of the foreigners.
They are convoyed by a French frigate, and on the demand of the
British consul at Acapulco they are admitted. This is grave news.

Donna Juanita and the padre try to smooth the gloomy brow of Don
Miguel. All in vain. The "pernicious foreigner" is once more on the
shores of Alta California. The Mexican eagle flutters listlessly
over the sea gates of the great West. The serpent coils of foreign
conspiracy are twining around it.






CHAPTER III.