I
imagine the Modoc Mining Company intends to use a sawmill, rather more
than a stamp mill."
"Who are they?" asked California John.
"We must find that out. Also we must ourselves ascertain just what
colour of mineral there is over there."
"That ought to be on the records somewhere already," Amy pointed out.
"Plant's records," said Thorne drily.
"I'm ashamed to say I haven't looked up the mineral lands act,"
confessed Bob. "How did they do it?"
"Well, it's simple enough. The company made application under the law
that allows mineral land in National Forests to be 'freely prospected,
located, developed and patented.' It is necessary to show evidence of
'valuable deposits.'"
"Gold and silver?"
"Not necessarily. It may be even building stone, or fine clay, limestone
or slate. Then it's up to the Forest Officer to determine whether the
deposits are actually 'valuable' or not. You can drive a horse and cart
through the law; and it's strictly up to the Forest Officer--or has been
in the past. If he reports the deposits valuable, and on that report a
patent is issued, why that settles it.
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