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THE ROMANCE

OF MONTEREY

103 A further essential to a clear mental picture of this unusual and unique period is an adequate conception of the result of the isolation of these early Californians in a land of abundance, under a genial sky, and subject to

the calming influence of the Mission. Writing of this period, Sepulveda says, “Settlers in a remote part from the center of government, isolated from and almost un-

aided by the rest of the Mexican states, and with very rare chances of communication with the rest of the world, they in time formed a society whose habits, customs and manners differed in many essential particulars from the other people of Mexico. The character of the new settlers assumed, I think, a milder form, more

independence, and less of the restless spirit which their

brothers in Old Mexico possessed. To this the virtuous and intelligent Missionaries doubtless contributed greatly.” There was no newspaper or periodical of any kind published in California in that day. The occasional passing ship brought meager and much belated news