[J. W., White Pine Items, Alta California, March 28, 1869]

 

WHITE PINE ITEMS.

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            An occasional correspondent of the Alta, writing from Treasure City, March 22d, furnishes the following:

            Editors Alta: Hitherto the reports forwarded to you have been of pleasant weather, etc., but I must now inform you that between the hours of two and three o'clock P. M. yesterday, one of the most appalling storms ever witnessed in this country set in, and as I write continues with unabated fury. The snow freezes as it falls, and the wind howls in a terrific manner. Many tents have been blown away, and grave apprehensions are entertained that many persons have perished.  It is entirely impossible to go out-doors in quest of information. One cannot walk a hundred yards without becoming so exhausted as almost to faint away. We are out off from communication with Hamilton and Sherman.  It is now four o'clock, and in an hour from now, if at all practicable, the P. U. Express Company will despatch their letters from Hamilton, but I think it quite improbable.

            Business is at a stand will; even the wretched squaws have abandoned the wood-peddling business, and the water-carriers have ceased to supply their customers, who are thrown back on the alternative of "melting their own snow."

            I attended divine service yesterday morning in a little frame building on Main street, kindly loaned by our Justice here. Elder McGrath, formerly of Philadelphia, officiated, and delivered an eloquent extemporaneous address, which was listened to by many an ancient miner, who, in his homelike way, testified his appreciation by dropping his half dollar into the hat as it went around at the close of the services, which were of the Methodist persuasion.

            Previous to the present hideous weather prospecting was brisk, and the Recorder and his deputies were kept busy. Recorder Tenny is a courteous gentleman, ready to furnish information, and is, as he richly deserves, making money rapidly.

J. W.