In 1840 all the horses were stolen by "New Mexican traders," one report alone telling of the driving away of 1200 head.

The officers at Los Angeles went in pursuit of the thieves and one party reported that it came in full sight of the foe retiring deliberately with the stolen animals, but, as there were as many Americans as Indians in the band, they deemed it imprudent to risk a conflict.
In December of 1846, when Fremont was marching south to co-operate with Stockton against the Southern Californians, San Luis was thought to harbor an armed force of hostiles.

Accordingly Fremont surrounded it one dark, rainy night, and took it by sudden assault.

The fears were unfounded, for only women, children, and non-combatants were found.
The Book of Confirmations at San Luis has its introductory pages written by Serra.

There is also a "Nota" opposite page three, and a full-page note in the back in his clear, vigorous and distinctive hand.
There are three bells at San Luis Obispo.