KAWARAU GORGE.

Cromwell Argus, Volume V, Issue 215, 23 December 1873, Page 6

KAWARAU GORGE.

(from our own correspondent.) ( December 22, 1873. The near approach of the “ merry Christmas time” brings with it the usual pleasant business of “ washing up” in most of the claims here. Although the quantity of gold obtained is, in almost every case, kept a profound secret amongst the partners, from hints dropped in different quarters, I can gather that results have been in every case satisfactory. Our mining population are now making preparations to use the water for stripping purposes to the greatest advantage ; so as to have time to spare for the usual festivities without losing the water when most required. The traffic is turned on the diversion of road just completed by Redhead and party. The gravel appears to bind well, and with the underlying metal and the correct forma tion bids fair to stand the wear and tear of many a winter. This party have commenced sluicing operations in their lower claim, and are also diverting another section of road off a claim they hold farther up the river. This is a very heavy speculation, as the new line of road is almost entirely covered with large rocks, amongst which the drill and jumper must be constantly kept going. The Kawarau Gorge school was broken up for the Christmas vacation on Saturday last. A slight examination of the scholars was held the same day by Mr G. Burrows, assisted by some members of the School Committee, at whmh a greater proficiency -was shown' than could have been expected, considering the short time the school has been established. In reading especially, the cleanness and correctness of enunciation exhibited by some of the scholars was especially marked, and shov/s that great pains had been taken with this important branch. A few prizes, consisting of books, &c.,.were awarded with evident satisfaction to all. Besides the gentlemen abovea few ladies were present, who took great interest in the proceedings. The schoolhouse was very nicely decorated with evergreens, Ac., and with the fresh, healthy faces and good behaviour of the pupils, formed •a very interesting scene.