They Had Killed A Mule, But Only The Indians And The
Catalonians Would Eat It.
The commander called a council of officers, on
December 6th, and told them the condition of affairs.
They had not found
the port they had come in search of, he said, and had no hope of finding
it or the vessel that should have succored them; they had but fourteen
half sacks of flour left; winter was upon them, the cold was becoming
excessive, and snow was beginning to fall in the mountains. He invited
free discussion, but postponed the decision until the next day, that all
might have time for reflection. On December 7th, after hearing mass, the
junta again met. Some were for remaining where they were until the
provisions were entirely consumed, and then retreat, relying on the
mules for food during the journey to San Diego; others thought it better
to divide the party, one-half to remain and the other return to San
Diego. Both projects were carefully discussed, and both presented
difficulties. The prevailing sentiment seemed to favor a return, and the
governor announced his determination. They would return to San Diego at
once, he said, for if the snow should close the mountain passes, the
whole expedition would be lost.
A violent storm arose in the afternoon, which lasted until the night of
December 9th, delaying the march.
On Sunday, December 10th, they began the retreat from Monterey. Before
leaving Carmelo Bay, they set up a large cross on a little hill on the
shore of the ensenadita, and on it, cut into the wood, the legend:
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