Chapter X: Bear and Bull Fight

It was a beautiful Sabbath morning in November, when the bells aroused me from a dreamy sleep; but before arising from my couch, being lazy and inclined to muse, I allowed my fancy to recall my departure from Carolina with all its attendant circumstances. The hour alone would have suggested such meditations, for it was on a dewy morning that I bade farewell to the loved ones of my far-off home. I recalled the yellow lustre of the sun pouring his floods of golden light over the glistening tree-tops; the tender adieus, the streaming eyes, the murmured blessing. I remembered the sadness of my heart as I thought of the distance that would soon separate me from the friends and companions of my youth, and the high hopes which soothed my pain.

As I was thus pondering I heard the sound of drum, fife and clarionet; and stepping to the window to ascertain what was the meaning of this Sunday music echoing through the streets of San Francisco, I saw a tremendous grizzly bear, caged, and drawn by four spirited horses through the various streets. Tacked to each side of the cage were large posters, which read as follows:--

FUN BREWING--GREAT ATTRACTION!

HARD FIGHTING TO BE DONE!

TWO BULLS AND ONE BEAR!

The citizens of San Francisco and vicinity are respectfully
informed that at _four o’clock this afternoon, Sunday, Nov. 14th_,
at _Mission Dolores_, a _rich treat_ will be prepared for them, and
that they will have an opportunity of enjoying a fund of the
_raciest sport_ of the season. TWO LARGE BULLS AND A BEAR, all _in
prime condition for fighting_, and under the management of
_experienced Mexicans_, will contribute to the _amusement of the
audience_.

Programme--In two Acts.