The Nelson Evening Mail. THURSDAY, MAY 10, 1866.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume I, Issue 57, 10 May 1866, Page 2

The Nelson Evening Mail. THURSDAY, MAY 10, 1866.

Since the departure of the last English mail mining affairs in tins province have been progressing most satisfactorily. The diggers have settled down for the winter, in consequence of which, instead of those extensive rushes which characterised the previous month, there has been a general increase at all of the gold fields in the production of the precious metal. This increase is particularly observed at the Grey, from which district we continue to hear the most encouraging accounts. Although the discoveries at the head of the Little Grey did not turn out so rich as was reported in the early part of April, yet a considerable population has settled in that neighbourhood, who continue to send down large quantities of gold. The high cost of provisions alone prevents many places more in the interior being worked. If the projected railway from Nelson lo Greyraouth is carried out it will open up an immense extent of country in this direction rich in minerals, which only requires means of access to be turned to profitable account. Around Cobden and on the North Beaeh we hear of fresh leads having been discovered, and also the discovery of equally rich deposits beneath those which have already been worked. The Collingwood gold-field at which under 20 men are at work, has exported 106 ounces gold during the month, besides what was brought to town by private hands. The coal mines are now assuming greater importance, the mine which was formerly worked by Messrs. Batty & Co., is now in the hands of a Victorian Company who having commenced operations upon a large scale, have affected a considerable reduction in prices. Another compauy is also in course of formation to wort another portion of this seam, who purpose also to supply Greymouth with gas. The West Wanganui seam is being worked upon a small scale, by a few private individuals, and a cargo arrived here a short time since, which was readily disposed of for private use. A company is also in course of formation to work this scam upon a more extensive scale. The harbor of West Wanganui is oue of the best upon the West Coast, and can easily be entered by large vessels at high tide, and the excellent quality of this

coal will always ensure a ready sale for it both here and at Wellington. In shipping matters we have to relate the loss of the N.Z. Co.'s small but useful coasting steamer Wonga Wonga, which has been principally employed in the trade between here and the West Coast. In endeavoring to enter the Grey River a few days ago, she was cast ashore by the strong current and left on the beach exposed to all the force of the waves ; she since has been condemned and sold. The Thane which used to be employed in the same trade as the Wonga Wonga is now engaged in the Hawfces Bay cattle trade. Messrs. IST. Edwards Co.'s p.s. Lyttleton is being thoroughly overhauled and her new boilers fitted in. When again ready for sea she will resume her usual trips to the Wairau.