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278 metal extracted greatly diminished; and at the present time (1883) these mines are not doing well. It remains to be seen whether their wealth is exhausted, or whether new bodies of ore will yet be found in paying quantities.

There are a dozen mines within a half-hour's walk of the principal hotels, and which can readily be visited. It is best to go in the morning. A series of ladders is used in most of them, instead of the massive stone steps as in Guanajuato. The largest mine is the San Rafael, and the oldest one bears the name of the famous Cortes. The latter is about two miles north of the city. An English company owns the Clerigos mine. Two other mines in the vicinity are also owned by Englishmen. There is one American company in Zacatecas, called the Chicago and Mexican Syndicate, that controls several mines in this district.

Stage-coaches run from Zacatecas as follows: A well-known Mexican, named Sada, has run a line of ambulances, called "the money-train," from Zacatecas to Monterey for many years. Before the Mexican National Railway was built, Sada drove his wagons as far as the frontier, at Laredo. The time required to reach Monterey is six days and a half, and the fare is $40, including board and lodging on the journey. A dozen mounted guards accompany the train. Bullion and silver coin are carried chiefly, although packages and personal baggage will also be forwarded. The route to Monterey traverses an arid and barren region, having a gently undulating surface, and very little vegetation, except the various species of cactus. The road goes via the hacienda de Cedres and Saltillo.

This hacienda, is the only redeeming feature of the trip, and it is one of the largest in Northern Mexico. There are