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immense quantity of ore existing in different parts of the country. We think, however, that for giving practical results and pecuniary profit to the explorers of new mines, three principal changes will be necessary in Japan.
First.—Better ordinary roads throughout the whole country.
Second.—Liberal mining laws on the same basis as those in Western mining countries.
Third.—The introduction of Western knowledge, Western experience and Western machinery in working the mines, in removing the mine-water and smelting the ores.
The first point is so clear to every European that it is unnecessary to dwell on it. It would seem, however, that the Japanese Government is not yet convinced of this truth. What is the advantage of a few miles of railway for the thirty millions of an agricultural people, if even provinces so fertile as Kiusiu remain without good ordinary roads on which the numerous products of agriculture, the fisheries, mining and commerce can be transported on wheeled vehicles? A great many products cannot now be brought to market, because the cost of transport by means of pack-horses, oxen or human labour costs so much money and time. In Kiusiu, one of the most fertile and prosperous islands of the Japanese Archipelago, the roads are generally in a deplorable condition, and have become much worse since the abolition of the daimiates. To convey ores or metals over considerable distances good roads or canals are matters of vital necessity.
The second point should also be a question of serious consideration with the Japanese Government, because the present mining laws are inimical to the interests and welfare of the country. There is no good reason why mining companies should not be formed from the union of Japanese and foreign capital, if these companies work under the supervision and control of the Government, so far as the stipulated royalty or percentage on the net proceeds is concerned.
The third point we believe also to be necessary in order to secure good practical results. It is true that the Ja-
