In preparing this little work the author has felt the difficulty which arises in a theoretical dissertation on so eminently practical a subject as prospecting. It seems like giving rules and prescriptions for'hunting or fishing or any other natural or practical pursuit. Though theory and practice are not at variance when happily combined, yet either without the other roves very unsatisfactory. Thus the reader of this book, should he start out armed only with its theory, will find himself for some time retty much at sea when he comes to actual practice in t e field. As, however, he gradually obtains some practical experience, he may find this little work of use to him. So, also, the seasoned prospector, who has hitherto trusted to luck, keen ness of Observation, intuition and experience, may find him self in the future much better equipped by acquiring a little Of the theory. Whilst we have endeavored to give the prospector all assistance in our power, as to the best means of educating himself, describing his outfit, etc., we have devoted Special attention to the description of such geological and other phe nomena as he is likely to meet with in connection with his work, so that he may have an intelligent idea of them when he encounters them. We have selected just as much material as we think would be most interesting and useful to him, saving him the time and trouble of wading through heavy tomes and laboriously picking out from a vast amount of, for his purpose, super ?uous matter, that which he will most require.