---j------- ^The recent heavy rains have seriously retarded work at many of the open pit mines. The new works of the Drake Stratton company at the Sharon were completely closed for several days, awaiting the installation of a pump to keep their ditch dry.The Fayal mine was also a heavy sufferej* by water, being drowned out by the downpour last night.A reduction in the working force at the Fay mine was made the first of the week.The lower levels of the Auburn were inundated by the flood last night.t - 4 « i «• . a _