Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Encounter With a Rattlesnake on the North Fork of the Yuba River. Being restless one California weekend, I took the family, with the two boys, Pierre and Basil, east, Into the Foothills of the Sierras and the North Fork of the Yuba River To pan for gold, anticipating use of our new gold pans. Driving through lovely wooded roads, We made it together to the river's edge. Gold panning was fun and we even found A few small nuggets amongst the deep black sand grains. After panning for two or three adventuresome hours, We decided to explore along the wooded shoreline. Suddenly, I spied a large rattlesnake in the grass. I called the others to come and check it out with me. We slowly followed it, as it agilely glided along. Sensing our presence, I am sure, it headed for a tree, With an opening in between two large roots. As the snake was half way into the hole, I compulsively announced I was going to hold its tail ! This was all done quietly as I explained, That I was able to do this because the snake could not turn around. As they watched, I explained how the snake felt-- Strong body muscles, cool to the touch, and very soft skin. Concluding this bazarre exercise, I slowly released the tail, And the snake quickly disappeared down into its shelter. This act was perhaps foolish, but my knowing animals Made it very safe, and we all, in our own way, will remember Our interaction with this dangerous, but now 'controlled' creature-- A creature of mystery and stories, giving us each a memory To last until the end of our lives! Frank Maurer 5 January 2026 2255 Hours.