CARDRONA.

Cromwell Argus, Volume IV, Issue 203, 30 September 1873, Page 5

CARDRONA.

(from our own correspondent.) September 26, 1873. The Winter is now about over here, and the miners are once more in full swing, with the exception of those parties interested in Cottar's leasehold, viz., the Empire, Banner of War, and Great Extended companies. Of these I may safely say they are the three claims principally looked forward to as the mainstay of Cardrona's future prosperity. It is hardly necessary to make any remarks on this Cottar leasehold question, only that the matter is still in the hands of the Government, and that until there is a settlement of it little or no work will be done in these claims. The rest of the miners are, generally speaking, doing very fairly,—both Europeans and Chinese. The sluicing parties at Branch Creek are busy at work, having a plentiful supply of water. With regard to the mile claim of Messrs Mackin, Bond, and Co., the necessary formalities are being pushed on with in order to the formation of a Limited Liability Co. to work the claim. The company is to be called the Cardrona Valley Great Extended Gold Mining Company, in 5000 shares of £1 each. The promoters reserve 000 paid up shares for transferring their right and title to the ground, and as a repayment of the money—already a considerable sum—which they have expended in connection with the affair. The company ought really to be well supported, for if successful, of which there is every probability, the benefit that will accrue to the district as a whole is hardly to be estimated. Many of the old residents are of opinion that not more than half the capital is required to prospect the ground and give the affair a thorough trial; so that there is every chance in favour of the investment proving payable. There is to be a public meeting here tonight, with the view of forming a Progress Committee to work for the benefit of Cardrona. It is high time some effort were made towards having some improvement effected in connection with our roads and tracks. The Government, seem decided not to do anything substantial for Cardrona, judging by the manner in which they have hitherto neglected us. The lower township has received another addition, in the shape of a large hotel, the property of Mr La Franchi, who was lately in business as a publican at Macetown. It is pleasing to notice strong signs on the part of many residents of a tendency to 3ettle down, as such sio;ns are evidence of a present contented condition, and of a faith in the prosperous future of the district. House improving, garden extending, and fruit-tree planting, with other doings of a like nature, are the order of the day at present on the Cardrona.