56	THE PROPERTIES AROUND US.
	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.