General Morreno was at first angry, and would have sent the poor devil
to jail, but Roche was so odd and made so many artful representations of
the evils he had suffered on board on account of his being a Catholic,
that the clergy, and, in fact, all Monterey, interfered. Roche soon
became a valuable acquisition to the community; he was an indefatigable
dancer, and a good fiddler. Besides, he had already accustomed himself
to the Mexican manners and language, and in a horse or buffalo hunt none
were more successful. He would tell long stories to the old women about
the wonders of Erin, the miracles of St. Patrick, and about the stone at
Blarney. In fact, he was a favourite with every one, and would have
become rich and happy, could he have settled. Unfortunately for him, his
wild spirit of adventure did not allow him to enjoy the quiet of a
Montereyan life, and hearing that there was a perspective of getting his
head broken in the "Settlement of the Grandees," he asked permission to
join my party.
I consented that Roche should accompany me: with my servant and the
Indians, we embarked on board of the schooner. Many were the presents I
received from the good people; what with pistols, powder, horses,
fusils, knives, and swords, I could have armed a whole legion.
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