We camped in the valley two days and found it fairly delightful. Thedam-site is not surpassed. Nowhere in the world, it is exclaimed, can solarge a body of water be impounded so securely at so small an expense.

There is an admirable camping-ground within easy distance of the valley,and engineers say that at tiny expense a good trail, and even awagon-road, can be built along the face of the north wall, makingpossible a fine view of the magnificent lake.

With the argument for granting the right the town seeks I am not hereconcerned. The only purpose in view is the casual recital of a goodtime. It has to do with a delightful sojourn in good company, with songsaround the camp-fire, trips up and down the valley, the taking ofphotographs, the appreciation of brook-trout, the towering mountains,the moon and stars that looked down on eyes facing direct from welcomebeds. Mention might be made of the discovery of characters--types ofmountain guides whom prove to be scholars and philosophers; of mules,like "Flapjack," of literary fame; of close intercourse with men attheir best; of excellent appetites satisfactorily met; of genial sun andof water so alluring as to compel intemperance in its use.

The climbing of the south wall in the early morning, the noonday stop atHog Ranch, and the touching farewell to mounts and pack-train, theexhilarating ride to Crocker's, and the varied attractions of thatfascinating resort, must be unsung. A night of mingled pleasure and restwith every want luxuriously supplied, a half-day of good coaching, andonce more Yosemite--the wonder of the West.