Thursday Island.

E. & A. Cargo Service.

From Our Own Correspondent.

Thursday Is., March 17.

THE E. & A. steamers which used to call until a couple of years ago, when their route was diverted to New Guinea always held high place in the esteem of Thursday Islanders, both for comfort and other things. The rumour that they were going to resume the T.I. run was received with much satisfaction, especially as there has been a good deal of difficulty in the way of passenger travelling during the past few months, with the reduced services. However, it transpires that the new steamers on this route will be cargo vessels only, but local residents hope that the time will not be far distant when arrangements will in clude reversion to passenger-carrying.

Basket ball, which finds great favour in the Torres Strait islands, has become very popular among coloured girls in Thursday Island. There are two clubs, whose supporters rally well when games are on. There is opportunity for the establishing of a club for European players also, and there are rumours that we shall see one before long, as a num ber of enthusiasts have been familiar with the game elsewhere.

Despite the depression, the talkies continue to be well patronised. It was thought that, when the talkies were in stalled and prices had to be increased, there would be a falling off in attend ance; but there have been remarkably good houses.

The ladies’ cricket matches continue to increase in popularity, and are now looked forward to eagerly. Next week the ladies’ rowing club will try their strength.