Mrs. Page reflected for a moment before replying. Then she said:
"I can't remember all the details, and you would not be interested in them if I could; but as nearly as I know the facts of the case I shall try to relate them to you.
"Many years ago Col. Juan José Warner received a grant of immense tracts of land from the Mexican government. On these lands, or part of them, some tribes of Indians were then living. They and their forefathers had lived there for many years. It was a provision of the grants or patents given by the Mexican government that the 'mission Indians' were never to be disturbed. In nearly all cases their rights were respected. Do you understand, dear children?"
Walter nodded, but Nellie said: "Mamma, how was it that the Mexican government granted lands to people in California?"
"Why, don't you know that California was once part of Mexico?" inquired Walter, with a little air of superiority.
"I believe I used to, but maybe I have forgotten it," murmured Nellie, quite discomfited, as she always was when her brother asserted his better knowledge of history and current events.
"Well, mamma, what next?" inquired the boy. "We don't want to 'lose the thread.' That's what our teacher says when the scholars' attention seems to wander."
"After some time," resumed Mrs. Page, "this tract of land, known by the name of Warner's Ranch, was sold to Governor Downey, who did not molest the Indians. There were several tribes besides those who lived at the Hot Springs. But later there was a lawsuit, and many endeavors were made to eject them, on the ground that they had only occupied the land after it had been granted to Warner.
"This lawsuit has been going on for many years. Recently it has been decided, very unjustly, most people think, that the Indians must go."