The Larkin Case.

Opinion in T.N.G.

VERY many letters have reached us from residents in the Pacific Terri tories, commending The Pacific Is lands Monthly for urging upon the authorities the need for a revision of the sentence imposed by Judge Wanliss, of New Guinea, on James Larkin.

Larkin very severely thrashed a cheeky native labourer, who had as saulted him. The native died, some time later, apparently (though it was never proved) from gangrene arising from in juries received in the flogging. Larkin was found guilty by the judge of murder, and sentenced to ten years’ hard labour, which he is now serving in New South Wales. The judge was not aided by a jury, but acted entirely on his own authority. Larkin is a good type of edu cated man, with a creditable war record as an aviation officer.

Here are two typical letters, both from prominent and highly respected residents of New Guinea: The first letter reads: “Larkin was once a neighbour of mine and is a friend. He was a great believer in maintaining white prestige, hence his trouble. He was a white man in every respect. I have been here from the Ger man days and have seen our prestige, which was high then, become non-exist ent to-day. I could write pages on this subject but will refrain; but if you can do anything about this case I am sure you will have the gratitude of the large majority of people in this Territory.”

The second letter: “You have truly, ably and fearlessly dealt with the circumstances and sen tence. I have to thank you for your will ingness to assist those working for a re consideration of the case.”

From a resident of New Ireland: “Your staunch stand on behalf of Jim Larkin is much appreciated by the troops here, especially planters and out station men who are accustomed to the handling of native labour.”