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DAWN AND THE DONS 109 quarry was the grizzly bear, an animal which, despite its great strength, could be reduced by the lasso to helplessness.” Bancroft gives his version: “These were the equestrian days of California. The saddle was the second and lifelong cradle of the race. Riding began in early childhood. The boy, mounted by a friendly hand, sped away in exhilarating race, whirling the lariat—lasso—at whatsoever attracted his fancy, and speedily acquired skill

for veritable game. The saddle became an object of dearest pride, elaborate with stamped leather and glittering adornments which extended from the high pommel to the wooden stirrup, which was partly hidden by the leather cover that shielded the foot. When mounted the Californian was well favored. With only a lasso for a weapon, he ranked not as a soldier, but was

not the less venturesome and dashing in facing the wild herd, in bearding the grizzly, or in mounting and taming the wild horse.” Dana, in “Two Years Before the Mast” says, “The men in Monterey appeared to me to be always on horseback.