"Cohabiting”

Letter to the Editor THE operations in Rarotonga in re spect of what is piquantly called “co habiting” pass all bounds for absolute asininity, and your comment on them is apt and pertinent. I cannot imagine what Judge Ayson, one of the most efficient, tactful, and understanding administrators in the entire Pacific, is thinking about to approve a performance which, as you truly say, is simply making New Zealand ridiculous.

However, I am reminded of a story. I cannot swear that it is true, but it was told me some years ago by a well-known resident of the Cook Islands.

It appeared that certain other residents who “drew the colour line” were ag grieved that their children were being

brought in contact in the island schools’ with native and half-caste children. They, therefore, sent a delegation to Sir Maui Pomare, then Minister for the Islands, to demand separate educational facilities.

Sir Maui, wise, far-seeing and big hearted—as well as thoroughly acquainted with the earlier history of the islands and of their white residents—restrained his desire to express himself adequately, and merely regarded his visitors in silence for a minute or two. Then he said, pointing to one after the other of the delegation: “And what about your half-caste children, Mr. —, and yours, and yours?”

For Sir Maui, you see, was quite famil iar with the earlier history of the islands —before laws against “cohabiting” ex isted, or were enforced.

I am, etc.,

Marc T. Greene.

Auckland, 28/3/’34.