CHAPTER XVII.

EARLY COMSTOCK MINING OPERATIONS.

In the Heart of the Bonanza—Inside the Mine—Extraordinary Experiments—“Process Peddlers” and their Devices—The Value of Tailings—Neat way of making Rings—Waste of Gold and Silver 133

LOSS OF THE PRECIOUS METALS.

Floating Treasure—Where the Quicksilver Goes—An Unanswered Question—Floating Away 143