The story of Judith Hingham-lovely New Engtland girl who ran away to share the changing fortunes of a Spanish Don in old California. Set in 1831, the novel goes from the early 'hide-and-tallow' years, moves through various Indian troubles, the revolution against Micheltornea, the Bear Flag revolt, the Conquest, the Gold Rush of '49, and finally the beginnings of California big-business in the later fifties.