gradually opens out again, the Phoenix Company possessing the right bank only. Down to the narrowest point there is but little timber; but below there is a fair amount of serviceable forest.
Upon
Phoenix, the mining operations proper had been suspended for the
moment. The entire force of native labour had been put on the
earthworks, roads, and water race, upon which considerable progress
had been made; and there is ample evidence that all these very
essential operations had been pushed on with highly commendable vigour.
In the short time since work has began, a great deal has been done in
the way of preparatory operations ; and on Mr. Grove's return from
Australia he will find his communications open, his platform and
foundations ready for the stamping house, the water race tolerably
well on; and then, tunnel-driving will doubtless be proceeded with as
rapidly as possible. I did not see any bungalows for European
assistants, nor did I visit all the outcrops referred to in Mr. Grove's
first report. From all that I could learn, a good opinion is held
concerning the prospects of the Phoenix Company; and with the energy
and skill of their experienced manager they will probably not be far
behind their neighbours in showing results.
