Geological Report

Hokitika Guardian, 24 November 1921, Page 4

Geological Report

WELLINGTON, Nov. 22. The annual report of tho Geological Department referring to the Aloxandet River roof discovery states that until much more tren’ehing and some driving has boon done on the lodes, it is lint possible to state what the prospects of tho Alexander (River field really are. No mine or mining dietriot can be safely judged liv surface prospects alone, much less by reports of biassed or noil-technical observers.

The Bull lode itself, tbe main feature of (lie field, in spite of all that has been said, remains a mere prospect, though one that deserves a thorough test. It offers pissibilities to the speculator, hut nothing that would tempt, tho cautious investor. Members of the public should not allow th judgment to he influenced hy the fact that a small amount of tolerably rich auriferous quartz has boon obtained and liefore thinking seriously of investing in the supposed FM Dorado, should await the results that can be obtained bv a moderate expenditure

trenching and driving. Dealing in detail with the Bull Beef the report state* that the samples averaged C 3 14s 7d per ton in gold, and the geologist considers the outcropping quartz not payable at present. I 1 Director makes suggestions for testing tbe possibilities of the reef, adding: ‘•The difference between the report* published in tho various newspapers and tbe reality is so great, that one finds it hard to form a dispassioned opinion concerning the occurrence. Disregalrding all statements I have heard or read, and relying only mi what T have seen. I would say that the Bull Beef is well worth prospecting. So far as exposed it is of workable width. Tt contains some payable ore and may possibly yield an appreciable amount of high grade ore. For to take little account of the latter the present, however, it would be best possibility. The lode though nt present difficult, of access is otherwise favourably situated for economical working. Milling timber is abundant and ample water power for ft battery etc., call be obtained from the Alexander Biver and other streams.”