The morning call., 1894-09-11

by grace of the State Executive the day
following had been created legal holiday,
the general committee very wisely decided
that the glittering street pageant should
take place this morning. 1t was a wise
move, and it may safely be asserted that
at no time in the past have the Native
Sons of the Golden West excelled or in
many respects equaled the parade to-day.
II was an enjoyable treat for the thou
sands Of spectators who thronged the line
of march, but it must have resolved itself
into very severe form of penance for
such of the natives who have since their
arrival measured almost every inch of
sidewalk in San Jose. They had during
the preceding two days taken exercise
sufficient to have put them in the pink of
condition. but when the time arrived fer a
parade on hot pavements with the mer-
curry at 94O, they realized the effects of
overtraining and groaned
But they looked, marched aud behaved
like veterans. They were enthused with
patrio tism. and enthusiasm of this sort is
capable of sustaining all manner of
fatigue. The proud distinction of FORM
iRg even small portion of such mag
nifcent parade was In itself sufficient
reward for their tring efforts throughout
the day.
The streets of San Jose never looked
handsomer, and the sight could not bat
create an impression on the minds of the
happy thousands, which time can never
efface.
The eye was greeted by long avenues of
flags and lanterns ranged on either side of
the street, several feet above the curbing.
while overhead the azure sky on the prin-
cipal thoroughfares was partially hidden
from view by a perfect network of flags
and bunting. The old historical bear flag
OF the California republic was displayed
here, there and everywhere, the natives
never missing an opportunity to salute the
old standard with resounding cheers
whenever their eyes caught a glimpse of
its outline. The sidewalks were densely
crowded, every available window occu-
pied, aud the supports of the electric
tower resem bled perches.
"Come off the perchw was the popular
cry as the corner Of Market and Santa
Clara streets was reached. But the "bird 50
refused to alig6t.
II was an inspiring scene, and it failed
not of its purpose. The strains of martial
music, the clatter of horses hoofs and
cheers Of the spectators afforded sufficient
incentive for ascending the lofty heights
of inspiration. And, in addition, just
picture 4S00 native-born Californisns. fairly
bubbling over with the effervesence of
youth. There were boys, youths and men
marching beneath the n. S. G. w. stand
ard, and justly proud were the old pio-
neers as they gaZed with tear-dimmed eyes
upon their own and the progeny of their
comrades in the early struggles of the first
settlers in the land of gold. 1t was proud
moment for the fathers and mothers, who
by natural law and right should be placed
on the honorary list OF the Native Sons
organizations; and also was it a proud mo-
ment for the sisters and sweethearts OF
such a manly throng.
OF course the boys had good reason TO
feel proud of themselves, bu. they are
sensible, and wisely refrained from gush-
ing over their own perieclions. They
marched. looked pleasant and responded
gracefully to the succession of oystions
accorded them along the line of march.
The yearly observance of CALIFORNIA;
natal day has had the effect of creating