154 
VIEWS OF LOUISIANA. 
It is not more than three or four years since the settlements 
through this country commenced. The Spanish government 
held out encouragements to American settlers, and I have been 
informed that about the years 1&01—-2, emigration was begin* 
ning to How in rapidly: it is probable that in a few years, unless 
restrained by government, there would have been a considera¬ 
ble population. The farmers-in the mine country, will have the 
advantage of a ready market near them for their produce, and in 
the winter season, when their forms do not require attention? 
they will find a profitable employment in transporting the lead 
to the towns, for the purpose of being shipped. 
The following is an estimate from the best information I can 
procure, of the annual produce of the different mines, and of 
the number of persons engaged in them; without counting 
smelters, blacksmiths, and others. 
lbs. lead. 
hands , 
Mine a Burton . 
..... 50.000 
15 
New Diggings . 
..... 200.000 
40 
Perry’s Diggings," 
i . 60.000 
50 
Mine Liberty, &xd 
Elliott’s Diggings 
..... 100.000 
20 
Mines of Belle Fontaine . . . 300.000 
50 
Bryan’s Diggings 
..... 600.000 
70 
Kichwoods . . 
..... 75.000 
30 
Mine a La Motte 
40 
Fourche Courtois 
. . . . . 10.000 
15 
Mine a Robins & > 
- .... 30000 
20 
Mine a Joe j 
N _ 
1 525.000 
350 
From this some estimate may be formed of the produce of 
these mines. When they come to be extensively worked, I have 
not a Houbt but that they will be able to supply the United States^ 
not only witinii sufficient quantity for home consumption, but al¬ 
so with an immense surplus for commerce. 
The government has manifested by some acts, an intention 
reserving to itself the mineral tracts. But the policy of this? 
