Page:History of California, Volume 3 (Bancroft).djvu/239

Rh in Mexico rather than in California, and being moreover free from all charges of complicity in the late revolt, the ambitious captain shrewdly saw his opportunity to gain favor with the national authorities, as well as temporary prominence in territorial affairs, and he acted accordingly.

Zamorano's first step was to secure the coöperation of the foreign residents of Monterey. These foreigners, though taking no decided stand, had been inclined to favor Victoria because of his strict preservation of order and administration of justice, caring very little for his sins against the spirit of Mexican institutions. As a rule, they disliked Echeandía, had no confidence in Pio Pico, were opposed to all revolutions not directly in the line of their own interests, and deemed their business prospects threatened by the rumored dissensions in the south. Therefore they were willing to act in defence of good order at the capital. They were convened by Zamorano on January 24th, and proceeded to organize a compañia extranjera for the defence of Monterey, during the continuance of 'existing circumstances,' against attack from the interior or from any other quarter. Nearly fifty joined the company, and elected Hartnell as their leader.