62 



MINERALOGY. 



The discovery of these mines was accidental, and occurred, as 

 appears by documents preserved in the archives of Lima, some- 

 where about the year 1630. 



An Indian, named Huari-Capcha, led his flock to pasture 

 on the heights, and being obliged to pass the night in that si- 

 tuation, sought shelter behind one of them. He kindled a 

 large fire, and was greatly surprized, at break of day, when he 

 perceived, among the ashes, several grains of mxelted silver. 

 Contrary to the received usage of the Indians, he communi- 

 cated this intelligence to Don Juan De Ugarte, a rich proprie- 

 tor residing in the vale of Huariaca, who proceeded immedi- 

 ately to explore the heights. On and near the spot where the 

 fire had melted the metallic substance, he found passages lead- 

 ing to several mines, which were afterwards wrought with the 

 greatest success. 



The fame of the mines of Ugarte drew thither a conside- 

 rable number of persons, whose enthusiasm inspired them 

 with the courageous resolution to establish themselves on those 

 wild and dreary heaths, which seemed to be solely destined 

 for the abode of wild beasts. In a little time, a Spanish set- 

 tlement was formed, where before not a hut was to be seen 

 to afford shelter to a solitary Indian. 



At that time there were in the province of Conchucos, a 

 royal chest and establishment, not only for the collection of 

 the tributes, but likewise for the management and dire6lion 

 of a rich mine of silver, which w^as worked on the account of 

 his Catholic Majesty. About the year 1600, the above mine 

 became useless ; on which account the royal chest was trans- 

 ferred to Huanuco; and, subsequently, in 1669, to the city of 



Pasco, 



