In this study, the authors firstly present detailed field investigation, microstructure observation and petrographic study to identify the different generations of pyrite in the Qianhe gold deposit, central China. By means of in situ LA-ICP-MS trace elements and sulfur isotopic analyses, the sources of hydrothermal fluid and ore-forming material were elucidated. The results provide insights into the genesis and hydrothermal evolution of the Qianhe deposit, and would be helpful for the regional Au prospecting in the Xiong’ershan area

Of this manuscript, the data are precise, figures are pretty in high quality and discussions are concise and accurate. Overall, this is a very well written paper focusing on an interesting subject and suitable for publication in Geological Journal. However, some minor points should be improved as below.

1. The deposits in Figure 1b represent large and small, so they should be noted in the legend.
2. Add photos of barite samples in Fig 4.
3. The revised draft requires supplementary sampling location and coordinates
4. It should be noted that Py1 contains the highest concentration of Co and Ti, Py2 has the highest concentration of Ni, and Py3 has the lowest concentration of the three elements. What is the geological significance?
5. Lines 407-409. “Thus the material source of the Qianhe Au deposit overprints the signature of precursor magma and wall rock” More evidence is needed.
6. Fig. 11. S isotopes in the stratum are derived from references.
7. At the end of this paper, the genesis and evolution of gold deposits are described in great quantities. Can the evolution pattern be added?
8. Lines 375-376. “the low δ34S values of Py1 and Py2 were attributed to the isotope fractionation between sulfate and sulfide minerals”. More evidence is needed.
9. Lines 400-402. More evidence is needed.

The authors have made commendable efforts to address all reviewer’s concerns within the revised manuscript (GJ-19-0413.R1). I am satisfied with the revised version of the paper. I recommend that it is suitable for publication in Geological Journal.