The Struggle with Intoxicants in Mid-19th Century California: Insights from The Californian
The article discusses the issue of alcohol abuse and the various methods that have been tried to address it, including "moral suasion" and legislative measures. The writer questions the effectiveness of current approaches in Monterey and suggests that punishing the abuse of alcohol rather than the act of drinking itself may be a more just and successful solution. Another letter to the editors expresses excitement about the publication of a newspaper in California and hopes for a future of unity and progress in the region.
The article titled "For the Californian" reflects a period in the early to mid-19th century where social reform movements were increasingly influencing public policy in the United States, particularly around issues like temperance and the use of intoxicating liquors. This was a time when the temperance movement was gaining traction, fueled by concerns over the social and health impacts of alcohol consumption.
One of the most notable aspects highlighted in this article is the author’s discussion of “moral suasion” as a method of combating alcohol abuse. As stated, “philanthropic men have been devising the means of stopping the abuse, and the countless miseries which have been produced by it,” indicating a growing awareness and societal concern over the consequences of alcohol. The invocation of moral suasion reflects a wider trend of the time, where reformers believed that education and moral appeal could change social behavior more effectively than legislative measures alone.
The article critiques several past attempts at prohibition or regulation, using examples from Mississippi and Massachusetts to illustrate the failures of strict laws. In Mississippi, the author notes, “a law, making it a criminal offence...resulted in...the law was repealed, and the whole community was again overwhelmed with the indiscriminate use of the stuff.” This observation underscores a critical point made by temperance advocates during this era: that heavy-handed laws often resulted in backlash, greater resistance, and increased illicit drinking.
Further illustrating the ineffectiveness of prohibitionary laws, the author references “the 15 gallon law” in Massachusetts, explaining how individuals found ways to circumvent regulations—“those who wished it always found it,” highlighting the creativity with which people can navigate restrictive laws. This suggests a profound understanding of human behavior; the author argues that prohibition not only fails to solve the problem but often exacerbates it by pushing drinking underground.
The article’s critique extends to the social dynamics of alcohol consumption, particularly among seafarers and the working class. The author captures this sentiment by noting, “the sailor gets ashore...he accordingly goes to a shop keeper and pays him four times its worth for the ‘aguadirente.’” Here, the narrative emphasizes the irony of the sailor, who perceives a restriction on his liberty in a society where those in power partake in drinking without consequence. This duality illustrates class disparities in the enforcement of alcohol laws and foreshadows the cultural rifts present in American society as temperance debates intensified.
Additionally, the closing remarks create a reflective tone towards the future of California. The author expresses hope that as California becomes “a member of the ‘Glorious American Union,’” there may be a movement towards shared values and virtues among its diverse populace. This speaks to the broader American context of the 1850s, a period marked by rapid change, including the Gold Rush and the resulting influx of people, which necessitated an evolution in social structures and governance.
In conclusion, "For the Californian" serves as a historical document that encapsulates the complexities of the temperance movement while also reflecting broader social changes in 19th century America. It offers insight into early reformist sentiments and struggles with moral and legislative approaches to public health and societal behavior, indicative of an era grappling with issues of individual liberty, public morality, and social responsibility.
In addressing the paper’s editors, the writer delves into the broader historical context of temperance movements, reviewing prior attempts at legislation designed to curb alcohol use. Ultimately, the author advocates for a refined approach grounded in "moral suasion." This thesis raises profound questions about individual freedom, societal norms, and legislative efficacy—issues that continue to resonate in today’s discussions about substance abuse and personal liberties.
The temperance movement, advocating for reduced or complete abstention from alcohol, gained momentum in the early 19th century. Organizations such as the American Temperance Society, founded in 1826, aimed to educate the public on the dangers of excessive drinking. Yet, these efforts often provoked polarized responses, with some advocating for strict prohibition while others championed individual rights and liberties.
In California, a burgeoning land of opportunity spurred by the Gold Rush of 1848, diverse cultures and ideologies intersected, creating fertile ground for both change and conflict. It is within this dynamic environment that the article in *The Californian* arose, expressing grave concerns over the rampant alcohol use fostered by the influx of newcomers.
The author critiques a failed legislative effort in Mississippi, where a law made it a criminal act to provide alcohol to individuals in one's home. While intended to curb drinking, the law backfired, inciting public resentment and rebellion. The piece succinctly captures this backlash: “the people felt the restraint, and even those who, before cared nothing about it, rebelled against the law.” This observation serves as a poignant reminder that legislative efforts misaligned with public sentiment can provoke counterproductive behaviors.
Contemporary discussions on drug policies find a parallel here. For instance, punitive drug laws often foster underground markets and exacerbate social issues, illustrating that outright prohibition may not achieve the intended goals.
- **Equality Under Law**: “If drinking spirits be a CRIME, then punish it as a crime in all, from the Commodore to the cook’s mate,” the author writes, spotlighting the selective enforcement of liquor laws that disproportionately punishes certain groups. This assertion underscores the need for lawmakers to consider both the letter of the law and the moral implications behind it.
- **Access and Class**: The author also raises the troubling issue of how societal status and privilege allow some individuals to access alcohol freely while others are pushed towards illicit means. For example, a sailor cut off from legal drinking options may resort to sneaking into a “filthy doggery” for a drink. This commentary on class dynamics remains relevant to modern discussions of health and morality.
In the letter’s closing remarks, the author expresses optimism about journalism’s potential: “I have had the pleasure of seeing your spirited little paper… it looks like a new era was opening…” This transition from sparse communication to a vibrant newspaper culture signals a critical evolution in civic engagement during California's early years. In a time of slow information flow, local papers rapidly circulated ideas, guiding communities toward collective reflection.
The author’s concerns resonate with contemporary discussions surrounding the opioid crisis, where communities grapple with addiction’s widespread repercussions. Just as the temperance movement sought to illuminate and address the harms of excessive drinking, modern initiatives focus on addiction education and support rather than vilification.
By the 1920s, Prohibition birthed organized crime and numerous unintended consequences that shaped American culture. Still, the dialogues initiated in the 1840s laid essential foundations for further exploration of the complex relationships surrounding alcohol consumption, individual agency, and public policy.
An earnest exploration of our history reveals not only the missteps of our predecessors but also offers opportunities for learning and growth. The continuous dialogue surrounding substance use and regulation depicted poignantly in this article echoes beyond mere historical interest; it remains relevant as we confront contemporary societal challenges. The lessons gleaned from our past serve as compelling reminders of the complexities involved in law, morality, and individual freedom, urging us to navigate these issues with both awareness and compassion.
1. **19th Century Temperance Movements** - To explore the origins and evolution of temperance movements in the 19th century, see this overview from the [National Women's History Museum](https://www.womenshistory.org/resources/general/temperance-movement).
2. **Moral Suasion in Substance Abuse** - For a detailed discussion on the concept of moral suasion as a strategy in social reform, refer to this analysis from [The National Institute on Drug Abuse](https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/moral-suasion).
3. **Impact of Alcohol Abuse on Society** - To understand the societal effects of alcohol abuse, access this comprehensive report by the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm).
4. **Legislation and Alcohol Regulation** - Explore the historical context and evolution of alcohol legislation in the United States through this article from the [Brookings Institution](https://www.brookings.edu/research/the-history-of-alcohol-policy-in-the-united-states).
5. **Role of Newspapers in Public Discourse** - For a look at the historical significance of newspapers in shaping public opinion, consult this resource from [The Library of America](https://loa.org/news/1369-the-role-of-newspapers-in-early-american-history).
6. **Consequences of Prohibition** - To assess the impacts and consequences of Prohibition in the United States, investigate this paper from [The American Historical Association](https://www.historians.org/research-and-publications/perspectives-on-history/december-2019/the-impact-of-prohibition).
7. **Substance Abuse and Public Health** - For information on the relationship between substance abuse and public health initiatives, check the [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/health-topics/substance-abuse).
8. **Adapting Addiction Strategies Over Time** - Review current approaches to addiction treatment and prevention in this article from the [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)](https://www.samhsa.gov/).
These resources should provide a comprehensive foundation for further research into the various dimensions of temperance movements, alcohol regulation, and societal impacts in 19th century America.
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
—The evil of intoxicating liquor has been a theme for conversation, and in fact, for Legislation, in almost all parts of the world, for several years, and it would be a great labor to get up new arguments and new reasons now, for such and such a course of policy, but I am in hopes you will pardon me for making a few suggestions on the subject of the best means of suppressing the too free use of the ardent in this place. For the last thirty years, philanthropic men have been devising the means of stopping the abuse, and the countless miseries which have been produced by it, and it has been within the last six or seven years, that the new principle of "moral suasion" has been adopted;—to find out the best means to accomplish an object, we should inquire into the success of the various means which have been tried. Let us examine the facts. In the State of Mississippi, U. S., "moral suasion" had accomplished so much that a large majority of the Legislature passed a law, making it a criminal offence, even to give a man ardent spirits in ones own house, the result was, that the people felt the restraint, and even those who, before cared nothing about it, rebelled against the law, which they believed to be an encroachment upon the rights of the citizen, and in a short time, the law was repealed, and the whole community was again overwhelmed with the indiscriminate use of the stuff, and the reaction produced by the previous restraint, increased the abuse three fold. Again, in Massachusettss, during the existence of the 15 gallon law, those who wished it always found it. The "striped pig," and a thousand and one other stratagems were resorted to, for the purpose of avoiding the letter of the law. So that it was soon ascertained that the evil had not been prevented, and the most sensible portion of the friends of temperance was convinced of the utter fallacy of such a course, and again resorted to the doctrine of "moral suasion." Mankind, in general, is very much like Paddy's pig, when you wish them to travel in one direction, try to drive them in an opposite course. In all instances, when you are under the necessity of attacking long established custom, the only means which have heretofore succeeded, has been to convince the mind, and by the mildest possible means, persuade them to abandon a bad habit. As a warm and devoted friend of the cause of temperance, I doubt of the success of the present system in Monterey. If drinking spirits be a CRIME, then punish it as a crime in all, from the Commodore to the cook's mate, but if only the abuse of it, be a crime, then punish the abuse: this is justice, and not a man before the mast but knows it, and uses, in his own mind, this mode of argument. With these feelings, the sailor gets ashore, he says to himself, "the officers of the ship, have their wines and brandy, and many of them even drank too much of it, and I am denied the liberty of buying one glass of grog, he accordingly goes to a shop keeper and pays him four times its worth for the "aguadirente." it being stolen, he drinks too much. The citizen of the town says to himself, "I am free," and the man whose proud spirit would not quail in front of a hostile army, sneaks into the back door of a filthy doggery, to drink with the rabble, where he never would have been seen under other circumstances. I have thrown out these few pencil-mark ideas, gentlemen, in hopes, that, through you they may reach the ears of our present law-makers, and perhaps induce them to think, whether or not, some more successful mode may not be devised to stop the evil. A CITIZEN. For the Californian. MESSRS. EDITORS:—I have had the pleasure of seeing your spirited little paper, and permit me to assure you, it gave me much pleasure. I have lived for some years in California, and have only at long intervals, seen a newspaper, and those dated 6 or 8 months back. It looks like a new era was opening on the people of this beautiful land, to see a paper published in one of our towns, and giving us the news of the country; it is a gratification which I have looked for, but not so soon. When I look round me, and suffer my imagination to look forward, but a few years more, when my adopted country shall become a member of the "Glorious American Union," when the natives and the naturalized citizen shall hail each other as brethren, and all strive together in the pursuit of industry, virtue and kindness, my heart leaps with pleasure. Under the belief, that your paper, if conducted on the principles upon which you have commenced, will go far to hasten these good results. OBSERVER.
One of the most notable aspects highlighted in this article is the author’s discussion of “moral suasion” as a method of combating alcohol abuse. As stated, “philanthropic men have been devising the means of stopping the abuse, and the countless miseries which have been produced by it,” indicating a growing awareness and societal concern over the consequences of alcohol. The invocation of moral suasion reflects a wider trend of the time, where reformers believed that education and moral appeal could change social behavior more effectively than legislative measures alone.
The article critiques several past attempts at prohibition or regulation, using examples from Mississippi and Massachusetts to illustrate the failures of strict laws. In Mississippi, the author notes, “a law, making it a criminal offence...resulted in...the law was repealed, and the whole community was again overwhelmed with the indiscriminate use of the stuff.” This observation underscores a critical point made by temperance advocates during this era: that heavy-handed laws often resulted in backlash, greater resistance, and increased illicit drinking.
Further illustrating the ineffectiveness of prohibitionary laws, the author references “the 15 gallon law” in Massachusetts, explaining how individuals found ways to circumvent regulations—“those who wished it always found it,” highlighting the creativity with which people can navigate restrictive laws. This suggests a profound understanding of human behavior; the author argues that prohibition not only fails to solve the problem but often exacerbates it by pushing drinking underground.
The article’s critique extends to the social dynamics of alcohol consumption, particularly among seafarers and the working class. The author captures this sentiment by noting, “the sailor gets ashore...he accordingly goes to a shop keeper and pays him four times its worth for the ‘aguadirente.’” Here, the narrative emphasizes the irony of the sailor, who perceives a restriction on his liberty in a society where those in power partake in drinking without consequence. This duality illustrates class disparities in the enforcement of alcohol laws and foreshadows the cultural rifts present in American society as temperance debates intensified.
Additionally, the closing remarks create a reflective tone towards the future of California. The author expresses hope that as California becomes “a member of the ‘Glorious American Union,’” there may be a movement towards shared values and virtues among its diverse populace. This speaks to the broader American context of the 1850s, a period marked by rapid change, including the Gold Rush and the resulting influx of people, which necessitated an evolution in social structures and governance.
In conclusion, "For the Californian" serves as a historical document that encapsulates the complexities of the temperance movement while also reflecting broader social changes in 19th century America. It offers insight into early reformist sentiments and struggles with moral and legislative approaches to public health and societal behavior, indicative of an era grappling with issues of individual liberty, public morality, and social responsibility.
Introduction
In the mid-19th century, the United States was undergoing a transformative period that not only reshaped its social and legal landscapes but also influenced its national identity. Against the backdrop of the Gold Rush and the influx of diverse populations into California, several pressing issues emerged, notably the consumption and regulation of intoxicating liquor. An insightful article published in *The Californian*, a newspaper widely read at the time, provides a striking commentary on the struggle against alcohol, shedding light on the complexities of temperance movements and the societal reactions that accompanied legislative efforts aimed at regulating alcohol consumption.In addressing the paper’s editors, the writer delves into the broader historical context of temperance movements, reviewing prior attempts at legislation designed to curb alcohol use. Ultimately, the author advocates for a refined approach grounded in "moral suasion." This thesis raises profound questions about individual freedom, societal norms, and legislative efficacy—issues that continue to resonate in today’s discussions about substance abuse and personal liberties.
The Context of Alcohol Consumption in 19th Century America
The narrative surrounding alcohol consumption in America has long been a contentious struggle marked by deep societal divides. By the 1840s, various social reform movements had emerged to combat the negative effects of alcohol on families, communities, and public health. Alcohol had historically played a significant role in American life, serving as both a social lubricant and a nutritional supplement. However, the excessive consumption of alcohol catalyzed alarming issues—poverty, crime, and familial breakdown—that could no longer be ignored.The temperance movement, advocating for reduced or complete abstention from alcohol, gained momentum in the early 19th century. Organizations such as the American Temperance Society, founded in 1826, aimed to educate the public on the dangers of excessive drinking. Yet, these efforts often provoked polarized responses, with some advocating for strict prohibition while others championed individual rights and liberties.
In California, a burgeoning land of opportunity spurred by the Gold Rush of 1848, diverse cultures and ideologies intersected, creating fertile ground for both change and conflict. It is within this dynamic environment that the article in *The Californian* arose, expressing grave concerns over the rampant alcohol use fostered by the influx of newcomers.
The "Moral Suasion" Approach
A key argument in the article is the adoption of “moral suasion” as a tactical strategy to mitigate excessive alcohol use. Unlike punitive measures, moral suasion sought to persuade individuals to voluntarily abandon drinking by appealing to their moral sensibilities. This method proved particularly effective in the temperance movement's early years, though its impact fluctuated depending on enforcement, societal attitudes, and cultural contexts.The author critiques a failed legislative effort in Mississippi, where a law made it a criminal act to provide alcohol to individuals in one's home. While intended to curb drinking, the law backfired, inciting public resentment and rebellion. The piece succinctly captures this backlash: “the people felt the restraint, and even those who, before cared nothing about it, rebelled against the law.” This observation serves as a poignant reminder that legislative efforts misaligned with public sentiment can provoke counterproductive behaviors.
Contemporary discussions on drug policies find a parallel here. For instance, punitive drug laws often foster underground markets and exacerbate social issues, illustrating that outright prohibition may not achieve the intended goals.
Critique of Legislative Measures
The article firmly challenges the criminalization of all alcohol consumption, suggesting that only the abuse of alcohol should be subject to punishment. Through this argument, the author encourages readers to reflect on the nuances of justice and the moral responsibilities that accompany legislation.- **Equality Under Law**: “If drinking spirits be a CRIME, then punish it as a crime in all, from the Commodore to the cook’s mate,” the author writes, spotlighting the selective enforcement of liquor laws that disproportionately punishes certain groups. This assertion underscores the need for lawmakers to consider both the letter of the law and the moral implications behind it.
- **Access and Class**: The author also raises the troubling issue of how societal status and privilege allow some individuals to access alcohol freely while others are pushed towards illicit means. For example, a sailor cut off from legal drinking options may resort to sneaking into a “filthy doggery” for a drink. This commentary on class dynamics remains relevant to modern discussions of health and morality.
The Role of Newspapers: Public Discourse and Engagement
Furthermore, *The Californian* represents more than just a platform for news; it acts as a vital avenue for public discourse. Newspapers of this era were instrumental in shaping public opinion and community policies, as they served as the connective tissue binding various social groups. The burgeoning press played a crucial role in encouraging dialogue on moral issues like temperance.In the letter’s closing remarks, the author expresses optimism about journalism’s potential: “I have had the pleasure of seeing your spirited little paper… it looks like a new era was opening…” This transition from sparse communication to a vibrant newspaper culture signals a critical evolution in civic engagement during California's early years. In a time of slow information flow, local papers rapidly circulated ideas, guiding communities toward collective reflection.
Effects of Drinking on Society and Public Health
At the heart of the article lies a recognition of the profound impact of alcohol abuse on society and public health. The acknowledgment of alcohol's disruptive role sheds light on a growing social awareness emerging from this period. Substance abuse had far-reaching effects on families, contributing to poverty and domestic violence while straining community resources.The author’s concerns resonate with contemporary discussions surrounding the opioid crisis, where communities grapple with addiction’s widespread repercussions. Just as the temperance movement sought to illuminate and address the harms of excessive drinking, modern initiatives focus on addiction education and support rather than vilification.
The Evolution of Temperance Movements
In the decades following the publication of this article in *The Californian*, the landscape of temperance movements in America dramatically evolved. Educational campaigns, changing societal dynamics, and a growing understanding of addiction ushered in new movements and strategies. The late 19th and early 20th centuries heralded the rise of Prohibition; however, these measures too sparked considerable societal pushback, leading to a host of challenges related to enforcement and public compliance.By the 1920s, Prohibition birthed organized crime and numerous unintended consequences that shaped American culture. Still, the dialogues initiated in the 1840s laid essential foundations for further exploration of the complex relationships surrounding alcohol consumption, individual agency, and public policy.
Conclusion
The article from *The Californian* serves as a historical lens into the intricacies of the temperance movement in the 19th century, illuminating the complex interplay between legislation, morality, and public behavior. As we reflect on these past struggles, we are invited to consider the ongoing debates around addiction and its entwinement with cultural, social, and economic factors.An earnest exploration of our history reveals not only the missteps of our predecessors but also offers opportunities for learning and growth. The continuous dialogue surrounding substance use and regulation depicted poignantly in this article echoes beyond mere historical interest; it remains relevant as we confront contemporary societal challenges. The lessons gleaned from our past serve as compelling reminders of the complexities involved in law, morality, and individual freedom, urging us to navigate these issues with both awareness and compassion.
Key Phrases:
1. **19th Century Temperance Movements** - To explore the origins and evolution of temperance movements in the 19th century, see this overview from the [National Women's History Museum](https://www.womenshistory.org/resources/general/temperance-movement).
2. **Moral Suasion in Substance Abuse** - For a detailed discussion on the concept of moral suasion as a strategy in social reform, refer to this analysis from [The National Institute on Drug Abuse](https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/moral-suasion).
3. **Impact of Alcohol Abuse on Society** - To understand the societal effects of alcohol abuse, access this comprehensive report by the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm).
4. **Legislation and Alcohol Regulation** - Explore the historical context and evolution of alcohol legislation in the United States through this article from the [Brookings Institution](https://www.brookings.edu/research/the-history-of-alcohol-policy-in-the-united-states).
5. **Role of Newspapers in Public Discourse** - For a look at the historical significance of newspapers in shaping public opinion, consult this resource from [The Library of America](https://loa.org/news/1369-the-role-of-newspapers-in-early-american-history).
6. **Consequences of Prohibition** - To assess the impacts and consequences of Prohibition in the United States, investigate this paper from [The American Historical Association](https://www.historians.org/research-and-publications/perspectives-on-history/december-2019/the-impact-of-prohibition).
7. **Substance Abuse and Public Health** - For information on the relationship between substance abuse and public health initiatives, check the [World Health Organization](https://www.who.int/health-topics/substance-abuse).
8. **Adapting Addiction Strategies Over Time** - Review current approaches to addiction treatment and prevention in this article from the [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)](https://www.samhsa.gov/).
These resources should provide a comprehensive foundation for further research into the various dimensions of temperance movements, alcohol regulation, and societal impacts in 19th century America.
Citation: The Californian
- For the Californian., 1846-08-29https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
Original Article:
MESSRS. EDITORS:—The evil of intoxicating liquor has been a theme for conversation, and in fact, for Legislation, in almost all parts of the world, for several years, and it would be a great labor to get up new arguments and new reasons now, for such and such a course of policy, but I am in hopes you will pardon me for making a few suggestions on the subject of the best means of suppressing the too free use of the ardent in this place. For the last thirty years, philanthropic men have been devising the means of stopping the abuse, and the countless miseries which have been produced by it, and it has been within the last six or seven years, that the new principle of "moral suasion" has been adopted;—to find out the best means to accomplish an object, we should inquire into the success of the various means which have been tried. Let us examine the facts. In the State of Mississippi, U. S., "moral suasion" had accomplished so much that a large majority of the Legislature passed a law, making it a criminal offence, even to give a man ardent spirits in ones own house, the result was, that the people felt the restraint, and even those who, before cared nothing about it, rebelled against the law, which they believed to be an encroachment upon the rights of the citizen, and in a short time, the law was repealed, and the whole community was again overwhelmed with the indiscriminate use of the stuff, and the reaction produced by the previous restraint, increased the abuse three fold. Again, in Massachusettss, during the existence of the 15 gallon law, those who wished it always found it. The "striped pig," and a thousand and one other stratagems were resorted to, for the purpose of avoiding the letter of the law. So that it was soon ascertained that the evil had not been prevented, and the most sensible portion of the friends of temperance was convinced of the utter fallacy of such a course, and again resorted to the doctrine of "moral suasion." Mankind, in general, is very much like Paddy's pig, when you wish them to travel in one direction, try to drive them in an opposite course. In all instances, when you are under the necessity of attacking long established custom, the only means which have heretofore succeeded, has been to convince the mind, and by the mildest possible means, persuade them to abandon a bad habit. As a warm and devoted friend of the cause of temperance, I doubt of the success of the present system in Monterey. If drinking spirits be a CRIME, then punish it as a crime in all, from the Commodore to the cook's mate, but if only the abuse of it, be a crime, then punish the abuse: this is justice, and not a man before the mast but knows it, and uses, in his own mind, this mode of argument. With these feelings, the sailor gets ashore, he says to himself, "the officers of the ship, have their wines and brandy, and many of them even drank too much of it, and I am denied the liberty of buying one glass of grog, he accordingly goes to a shop keeper and pays him four times its worth for the "aguadirente." it being stolen, he drinks too much. The citizen of the town says to himself, "I am free," and the man whose proud spirit would not quail in front of a hostile army, sneaks into the back door of a filthy doggery, to drink with the rabble, where he never would have been seen under other circumstances. I have thrown out these few pencil-mark ideas, gentlemen, in hopes, that, through you they may reach the ears of our present law-makers, and perhaps induce them to think, whether or not, some more successful mode may not be devised to stop the evil. A CITIZEN. For the Californian. MESSRS. EDITORS:—I have had the pleasure of seeing your spirited little paper, and permit me to assure you, it gave me much pleasure. I have lived for some years in California, and have only at long intervals, seen a newspaper, and those dated 6 or 8 months back. It looks like a new era was opening on the people of this beautiful land, to see a paper published in one of our towns, and giving us the news of the country; it is a gratification which I have looked for, but not so soon. When I look round me, and suffer my imagination to look forward, but a few years more, when my adopted country shall become a member of the "Glorious American Union," when the natives and the naturalized citizen shall hail each other as brethren, and all strive together in the pursuit of industry, virtue and kindness, my heart leaps with pleasure. Under the belief, that your paper, if conducted on the principles upon which you have commenced, will go far to hasten these good results. OBSERVER.
