"92 TRANSACTIONS OF THE CANADIAN INSTITUTE. [VoL. II. 



When we consider the methods of production of Nickel from the 

 various Sulphides or Arsenides, and then see the simplicity of the 

 Silicate smelting, how by one operation a rich alloy of Nickel with very 

 few impurities is obtained from the raw ore, it is not to be wondered at 

 that the New Caledonian mines control the price of Nickel for the whole 

 world, and will continue to do so till the deposits are exhausted. 

 This time is by all indications not far distant, for formerly the medium 

 quality of the ore contained 7 to 1 5 per cent. Nickel, and the rich ore over 

 15 per cent. Nickel, but at present 5 or 6 per cent, is ranked as the 

 best quality. And when this deposit is exhausted the price of Nickel 

 must go up again, totally irrespective of any new use to which it may 

 be put in forming alloys. The Canadian mines should then occupy the 

 position that the New Caledonian ones have in the past. 



