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in determining the likelihood of flowing water being obtained by artesian wells, for it is the opinion of geologists that wells of this character are not successful unless? the strata passed through in boreing? them is considerably inclined.

(Geology West of the Pecos)

West of the Pecos river the Cretaceous limestone underlies the whole of that extensive section of country previously described as part of the Staked Plain, The Alkali foundation extends over a wide surface and forms the greater portion of this arid waste. It permeates every thing it comes in contact with. The soil is rendered unproductive and the water unpalatable, but these disagreeable features are somewhat compensated for by the large deposits of common salt(Chloride of Sodium) which occur at various points and form the principal article of trade between widely separated districts. The chief source of supply for Western Texas is derived from several salt lakes situated about thirty five miles north-east of Fort Stockton near "Horse Head Crossing" of the Pecos river. The Salt collected at this place is a pure rock salt, having well formed crystals, and strongly impregnated with free acid. It is perhaps in it's natural con