TEN-ACRE MINING LEASES.

Westport Times, Volume III, Issue 490, 13 April 1869, Page 2

TEN-ACRE MINING LEASES.

(To the Editor of the Westport Timts.) Sie, —I venture a few remarks relative to the ten-acre mining leases applied for in this district. Ten acres now appear as the minimum quantity applied for. If the granting of these leases is proceeded with, a calamitous result must follow. It gives a monopoly to the few, and debars the many from participating in the wealth with which nature has endowed the land. There may be specious arguments forwarded in favor of the ten-acre system now developing in a startling formsuch as, why cannot parties object when it is applied for; but the law provides for such an emergency, effectually preventing such a casualty, for the more destitute are called upon to make a deposit of ten pounds before their weak voice can be heard, Ground is applied for that offers inducement to many a traveller returning hither who would be robbed of his promise if he finds the place secured in ten-acre blocks. If parties applying for ten acres would but continue the even tenor of their way, content with a small area, they can, after one acre is worked out, apply for another. There is sufficient protection to parties intending ground-sluicing by the fact of their being able to work ground that will not pay by the ordinary method, The whole of Addison's Plat would only permit of three or four similar blocks to one applied for at the Skibbereen end of the lead, and, if granted, would provide work for a very limited number.

Live aitd Let Live. Addison's Plat, April 10.