GOLD IN FIJI. SUGGESTED REWARD FOR DISCOVERY OF PAYABLE DEPOSITS.

Te Aroha News, Volume VI, Issue 298, 12 September 1888, Page 4

GOLD IN FIJI. SUGGESTED REWARD FOR DISCOVERY OF PAYABLE DEPOSITS.

It is an open secret (says the " Fiji Times" of a recent date) that, for a considerable time, prospecting for the precious metals has been carried on in this colony. It is albO equally well known that gold has been found in small quantities ; bo small, indeed, as not to warrant those connected with the search to make an effort to float a company. It is not so well known that, thinking that the silver had been discovered, iome specimens were sent up to Australia to be tested, with the result that, instead of silver, a button of gold was procured. The&e indications prove, however, that the metal is here, and with a view to induce a thorough search for a payable reef, or even auriferous alluvial, it is now proposed to form a company who will guarantee a reward of £500 for the discovery sought for. It is supposed that this will probably induce an experienced man or two Irom the neighbouring colonies to come down and have a look around. The proposal appears feasible and will no doubt be taken up and followed to a success, so far as the guarantee is concerned. There is but little risk attendant on that part of the matter ; but something will have to be done before that stage can be reached. The Government will have to be approached and arrangements made with them. It would be poor work to find payable ground and then to be forbidden to work it. But this also could no doubt be managed ; and, that granted, the proposal seems the most feasible of any yet mooted here with respoct to such enterprises.