In case of conflicting claims to a crevice or range bearing nonferrous metallic minerals the court may continue any action to enforce a claim or grant any necessary time for the purpose of allowing parties to prove up their mines or diggings if it satisfactorily appears necessary to the ends of justice. In such case the court or judge may appoint a receiver and provide that the mines or diggings be worked under the receiver’s direction, subject to the order of the court, in such manner as best ascertains the respective rights of the parties. The nonferrous metallic minerals raised by either party pending the dispute shall be delivered to the receiver, who may, by order of the court or judge, pay any rent or other necessary expenses therefrom.