The Valley of the Moon Book 3 Chapter 1

In which Saxon and Billy begin their quest for land by exploring the patchwork farms of San Leandro, observing the industrious Portuguese settlers who thrive through wise and persistent toil, contrasting sharply with the struggling Americans who once held the land. With curiosity piqued and lessons unfolding by the roadside and under fruit trees, they vow not to be hurried, but to learn the true nature of farming and ownership as they set their sights on claiming a government homestead elsewhere.