d flower robed
meadows, and lulled at evening by the murmur of the iridescent waters of
her bay reflecting the sunset splendors of the sky.

About 1810 Monterey was ravaged by buccaneers under Bluetcher, who
was such a terror to many sea-port towns, these pirates sailed up
the Pacific Coast, and appeared in Monterey Bay in four large vessels
arriving at midnight. Before they could be driven out of the town they
set fire to some of the Spanish Presidio homes and carried away precious
jewels and silver belonging to the Spanish ladies, and provisions from
the garrison.

The former Capilla Real de San Carlos is now the parish church of
Monterey, guarding like a fond mother all that remains of the massive
silver altar vessels and candelabras, paintings, statues, vestments,
manuscripts and archives of the pioneer missionaries of this mission.

Among the modern attractions of Monterey we must not fail to mention
Hotel Del Monte built and owned by the Pacific Improvement Company, and
the many beautiful drives constructed by the same, company. Mr.
Frank Powers was the founder of the flourishing settlement of
Carmel-by-the-Sea, a few minutes walk from San Carlos Mission and a
favorite resort of artists and literateurs. These with many others have
been no small contributors to the old Capital. Thus while we deplore
years of vandalism, and the thousands who have joined the "careless
throng" we can always turn to the pleasing contrast of sympathizers and
friends who are always, willing to give "honor to whom honor is due,"
and in doing so have spared neither purse nor efforts in aiding those
who under difficulties have guarded the flame of tradition and love of
the splendid past with its bright galaxy of "heroes, martyrs, saints."
True, the glowing embers often smouldered beneath a debris of neglect
and even harsh misrepresentation but were not and could not be
extinguished. And now faithful hearts may beat fast with holy joy for
the feeble light fanned by loving zephyrs has burst into a glowing flame
destined to diffuse its love and influence to all, regardless of creed,
race or station.

Chapter IV

California Under Spanish Rule

With the landing of Serra and Portola at San Diego in 1769, began the
Spanish period of California. The chief events of this period are in
a pith, the following: The establishment of the missions, the
christianizing of the Indians and the exploration and colonization of
California.