“NO dissatisfaction;*

N.G. Planter Defends Administration,

REPLYING to Mr. James S. Inch, whose comments on New Guinea in the Australian press brought him some adverse criticism, Mr. W. L. Heron, of Tovakundum Estate, Rabaul, denied, in a letter in “The Sydney Morning Herald” that there was dissatisfaction in the Territory.

Mr. Inch, he said, was only in Rabaul for 24 hours and it was regrettable that disparaging remarks should be made against the Territory without any reason.

“The facts speak for themselves,” pro ceeded Mr. Heron. “Numbers of people to-day are desirous of investing in Ra baul in plantations and mining ventures.

This is an indication of confidence in the Territory. Extraordinarily good prices have been offered for plantations, but the owners are unwilling to sell.

“There is no section at all favourable to German control. We have full con fidence in the existing Administration, which is carrying out its work efficiently and with due regard to the interests of all sections. Undoubtedly, there is a future for the Territory, with efficient administration, and with assistance from plantation, mining, commercial and other interests.

“Rabaul is the most law-abiding com munity among the islands of the Pacific,” added Mr. Heron. “People passing through should study it more closely be fore expressing ill-founded opinions.”