NEWS FROM THE RAND

Press, Volume LX, Issue 11503, 9 February 1903, Page 5

NEWS FROM THE RAND

(ITIOM OTTO OWN CORRESPONDENT.) JOHANNESBURG, January 5. ME CHAMBERLAIN'S VISIT. Air Chamberlain's visit and what is to be the likely outcome from it, is the topic that is dwarfing all other subjects just now. Landing at Durban on Boxing Day, the right hon. gentleman has since been called upon to attend so many functions ftiat be cannot have had as yet much time for the serious business that is to engage his attention. The welcome 'Mr Chamberlain received at the port of Natal was of the most enthusiastic description, and it has been the same all along the line of route he has taken to Pretoria, where be is at present. He comes to Johannesburg this week, so will very soon be in close grip with tho problem of the mines. The burden of the eong in Mr Chamberlain's speeches in South Africa has been conciliation; to sink minor differences, forgive and forbear, let British and Dutch work band in hand for ; the progress and security , of the country. . THE SHARE MARKET. The cloud of depression that has overhung the mining industry is lifting. For a month past several stocks have been going up spasmodically. This did not portend much, but daring the past week a mild boom has taken place. Setting in as it did with the coming of the Colonial Secretary, the one foot must to considered ac conducing to the second. And ac Mr Chamberlain's utterances have all been pitched in an optimistic strain, the cause of the changed aspect of market affairs is rightly ascribed to him. The tone on 'Change is reflected on all classes of trade, and the general feeling in the Golden City is one of buoyancy and hopefulness. The gold returns for December have not yet been published. It is expected, however, the output will maintain the airerage .increase that has been going on since the under-manned mines resumed operations on peace conditions.