THE DIGGINGS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume IV, Issue 1181, 27 August 1867, Page 5

THE DIGGINGS.

To the Editor of the New Zealand Hebald. Ent, —Doubtless you have heard ore this, that affairs have assumed a more cheerful aspect within the last few days, soTeral reefs having been discovered more or less auriferous ; while many of the diggers wero labouring under the idea thiit the Kuranui reef wa6 the only payable speculation in tlio district, experienced reefers have been more profitably employed in overhauling the numerous mountain spurs that terminate in the lints—their labours have in soveral instances been rewarded with success. Amongst these I may mention the name of Murphy, tho same whose energy and experience assisted so materially to develop the Coromandel reefs. From my own know ledge I can state that no man deserves a richer reward. If we had a score or two of such men as this the Shortland Town diggings would soon become noted as ono of the richest in the Colony. Tho majority of the presont population d > notappearto have had much experience in quartz mining, their attention consequently has been given to alluvial workings, which at tho present season are not workable. Although provisions and clothing aro abundant, I would riot advise any ono to como down here without a few spare pounds, as in tho majority of cases parties would bo two or three weeks (perhaps months) before " making a show." I saw in ono of your numbers that tho country was open for prospecting as fur as Hikutaia. lam assured by the natives that sucli is not the case. The coast, however, lying to tho northward, has been in a great measuro handed over to the prospector, and it is along this coast, that many valuable quartz reefs will be found,;at least so I will venture toprelict; no ir ore at present. —Yours, &C-., f

Shortland Town, August 22, ISG7.