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 learn, which has in some cases occasioned privation and distress. At both Castlemaine and Bendigo there is reported to be much suffering from the above cause.

A new rush is spoken of in the neighbourhood of Taradale called McMillan's diggings. The result is reported as satisfactory, and instances of 30 ounces to the tub are known to have occurred. As an instance of the vicissitudes which attend the operation of digging, and how little practical advantage is derivable from books, we may refer to the sudden alteration which has occurred in the lead at Fiery Creek, where the bottom has suddenly deepened from 5 to 60 feet.

A short time since a report was circulated by our contemporary broker that an extensive fraud had been committed in ingots. As the details of this affair got wind, however, it appears to partake more of the nature of ignorance or indiscretion on the part of the party purchasing.

The Champion of the Seas, which vessel sailed on Wednesday last, took gold to the amount of £370,000. There is yet no other vessel laid on for London until the James Baines, on the 6th of next month.

The escorts from Mount Alexander and Ballaarat arrived at the Gold Office, and bring the following returns, viz.:—