. Reports of explorations and surveys, to ascertain the most practicable and economical route for a railroad from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean . greatgrass valley which was called Val de China, it now seems highly probable that we shouldhave discovered a passage through the Aztec range south of Mount Hope, to the head of thisstream; and thence would have followed it by a direct course to this place. All the indicationswe have seen appear to mark this route as highly favorable. The dividing ridge near Blackmountain appeared lower than Aztec Pass. It is probable, therefore, that th
. Reports of explorations and surveys, to ascertain the most practicable and economical route for a railroad from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean . greatgrass valley which was called Val de China, it now seems highly probable that we shouldhave discovered a passage through the Aztec range south of Mount Hope, to the head of thisstream; and thence would have followed it by a direct course to this place. All the indicationswe have seen appear to mark this route as highly favorable. The dividing ridge near Blackmountain appeared lower than Aztec Pass. It is probable, therefore, that the valley of EioSanta Maria is less obstructed by canoned banks than the branches we have followed. It is asource of great regret that we were unable, from want of time, to make this examination. Aninteresting region is therefore left for future explorers. The river, for the days march, hasrolled upon a wide and sandy bed, occasionally with fertile soil upon its banks. Bocks, vol-canic, metamorphic, and red sandstone, were piled upon each side of the valley in fantasticshapes. Upon the right was a volcanic cone called Artillery Peak. Vegetation has been. Artillery Punk. as unique and beautiful as yesterday. Pitahaya, from tbirty to forty feet in height, with hugebranching arms; Echino cacti, with rose-tinted spines; tbc glittering chug cactodendron, and anew fructescent variety, bave rendered the scenery picturesque. We bivouaced about two 104 VALLEY OF BILL WILLIAMS1 FORK. miles below the confluence of Rio Santa Maria; where, upon the hills, is found green grasswhich the Mexicans call gallete. Much of the water of the river is lost in the sand, hut achannel is still left, ten or twelve feet wide and a foot deep. It is a clear stream, flowingrapidly. The day has been uncomfortably warm. CHAPTER XIII. From mouth of Rio Santa Maria to Qhemehuevis Valley, oji the Colorado. Continuation of the reconnaissance down Bill Williams fork.—Coming up of tbe train.—Cave in a canon.—Anc
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