holmes] ABORIGINAL OPERATIONS IN AN IRON MINE 507 
perficial pits and extending to unknown depths beneath the present 
floor of the mine. 
Numerous examples of the implements found and specimens of 
the ore in its various phases, together with a large mass of the com¬ 
pact ore, one surface of which shows the markings of the mining 
tools of the aborigines, were presented to the National Museum by 
the proprietor of the mine, Dr S. W. Cox. 
I have now examined mines and quarries of the aborigines in 
twelve distinct materials, and each new example has added to my 
former high estimate of the enterprise and perseverance of the na¬ 
tive peoples when engaged in the pursuit of their normal industries. 
