Native Copper of Lake Superior, &c. 213 
ed by the facts already adduced, and so far as theoretical 
aids can be relied upon, by an application of those facts to 
the theories of mining. A further extent of country might 
have been embraced along the shore of lake Superior, but 
the same remark appears applicable to it. 
- That a mineralogical survey of the rock formations 
skirting the Ontonagon, including the district of count 
above alluded to, would result in the discovery of very val- 
uable mines of the sulphuret, the carbonate and other prof- 
itable ores of copper ; in the working of which the ordi- 
nary advantages of mining would be greatly enhanced by oc- 
casional masses, and veins of natiye metal. This deduction 
is rendered probable by the general sopeemnee of the coun- 
try, and the concurrent discoveries of travellers,—by the 
green coloured waters which issue in several places from 
the earth,—by the bodies of native copper found,—by the 
cupreous tinge which is presented in the crevices of rocks 
and loase stones,—by the geological character of the coun- 
try, and by other analagous considerations, 
These deductions embrace all I have to submit on the 
mineral geography of the country, so far as regards the 
copper mines. Other considerations arise from the facili- 
ties which that section of country may present for mining 
operations,—its adaptation to the purposes of agriculture, — 
the state, and dispositions of the Indian tribes, and other 
topics, which a design to commence metallurgical opera- 
tions, at the present period would suggest. But Iam not 
aware that any such views are entertained by government, 
and have not considered it incumbent upon me in this com- 
munication, to enter into details on these subjects. It 
may be proper, however, to remark, that the remote situa- 
tion of the country containing the most valuable mines, 
does not, at the present period, favour the pu min-— 
ing. It would require the employment not only of the ar- 
tificers and labourers necessary to conduct the working ¢ 
mines, but also, of a military force to protect their opera- 
tions,—first, while engaged in exploring the country, and 
afterwards, in their regular labours. For, whatever may 
be their professions, the Indian tribes of the north, possess 
strong natural jealousies, and in situations so remcte, are to 
be restrained from an indulgence in the most malignant pas- 
sions, only by the fear of a prompt military chastisement. 
Tn looking upon the southern shore of lake Superior, the 
