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PYRITES. 503
on tbem for several years, the copper contents being too low, and the
sulphur valueless. The analysis of the Walcot ore is
Analysis of pyrites from JValcotville, Vermont.
Per cent.
Sulphur 34.40
Iron 32 70
Copper 3.27
Silica and insoluble matter 29.50
Total 99.87
Massachusetts —The Davis mines, situated in the southeastern part
of Rowe, Franklin county, are the only producers of pyrites in this
State. These mines were opened in June, 1882, on the top pf an im-
mense outcrop of almost pure iron pyrites. The main shaft is now
more than 400 feet in depth, following the dip {21o) of the deposit.
There are five levels and the same number of stopes opened in both
directions along the strike of the ore body. The vein or ore body main-
tains its size, and in several places is more than double the surface
width. The policy of the company has been to drive the development
work at least one year ahead of its requirements, and by this means
there are always tens of thousands of tons of ore that can be extracted
at any moment quickly and cheaply. The quantity mined during 1885
was upwards of 30,000 tons, nearly all of which was sold for consump-
tion. The company keeps an ore reserve at the mines and railway of
about 10,000 tons. This is in the form of lump, broken, and " smalls"
ore, separated and prepared for immediate shipment. This quantity is
in excess of the regular shipments.
Proportion of monthly shipments of lump, hroken, and " smalls " ores.
Sizes. Tons.
Lump ore, 8 inches in diameter and over. ;---. 800
Broken ore, less than 3 inches in diameter and over three- fourths inch in diameter 1,900
" Smalls " ore, nothing larger than one-fourth inch in diameter 900
Total 3,600
, But one grade of ore is produced, the lowest workings yielding iden-
tically the same grade of ore as the first openings of the mine. The
width and continuity of the ore body, as well as its great length, depth,
and purity make it one of the most remarkable pyrites deposits known.
The following analysis is the mean of over one hundred separate tests
Analysis of pyrites from Bowe, Massachusetts.
Per cent.
Sulphur 49.27
Iron 45.30
Copper 1.47
Silica and insoluble matter 3.83
Total 99.87