The soil in this part of Merced county appears to be made up entirely of alluvial deposits from the various creeks which in winter irrigate the plains with their natural overflow. The largest of these creeks is Bear creek, its deep channel resembling rather an irrigation ditch constructed on the latest engineering principles than a natural stream. Its banks are even and slanting, while its bed is deep below the surface. But our time to stay was short. We have left Merced and many smaller towns behind us, crossed many more dry streams, and passed the large vineyards at Minturn, where sherry and port of excellent quality are made. We have again crossed the main channel of the upper San Joaquin, not far from where it emerges from the Sierra Nevada, its silvery waters winding their way over the thirsty plains between steep and barren banks. We have crossed a few irrigating ditches full to overflowing with water, and see a few orchards and vineyards with their bright green scattered about on the yellow plains. There is suddenly a general stir in the cars, hats and bundles are taken down from the racks, most of the passengers prepare to move, the locomotive whistles, houses and trees are seen on both sides through the car windows, the train comes to a standstill, there is a hum of voices, a waiting crowd swarms around the cars, a throng of people pushes in, and another throng pushes out. We are among the latter, as we are now in Fresno, the largest raisin center on the continent.