ALBUKNIA.

Thames Star, Volume XII, Issue 3802, 5 March 1881, Page 2

ALBUKNIA.

The following is the mine manager's fortnightly report to the directors :— " Gentlemen; —I have the honor to report as follows, viz. :—Sons of Freedom new low level: Contractors have now driven a distance of 21 feet.. There has not been such good progress made as might have been expected in starting a new drive, but this was caused by the ground being composed of solid sandstone, which necessitated the use of powder as soon as the surface was broken. Though the progress for so far has not been satisfactory, I am better pleased with the class of country than if it had been broken ground and easier worked, as were the reef to be cut in similar ground to that we are now driving through, I would expect ii to be gold producing Sons of Freedom tunnel: Very little work has been done here during the month. Hanging wall leader, 70 feet level: Driving has been carried on during the month, and within the last 10 or 12 feet colors of gold have been constantly seen, but nothing very rich as yet. Stoping is also being carried on here. Battery level: Since last report I have had men cleaning up and repairing the drive over Christie's tribute. This has been completed, and I now intend to continue the drive to the boundary which I expect we will reach in about 120 feet. Owing to the scarcity of water at the battery, several places in the mine have been standing idle, and several of the tribute parties are also waiting to crush, so as to send in their returns. Battery : During the month there have been 100 trucks of quaitz crushed for the return of 1250zs 15dwts retorted gold. You will thus perceive that our general stuff is of rather a low grade, and in order to have payable .returns, the battery must be kept constantly employed. Messrs Price Bros, are now engaged in making the alterations, viz., replacing the turbine with one of their water engines, by which they guarantee a great saving in the water. They promise to have everything ready for a fresh start by the beginning of next week.—l have &c, Thomas Bavvosd, Manager.