Samoan Notes

From Our Own Correspondent.

Apia, Dec. 6.

THOUGH the copra market in Europe seems to be slightly steadier lately, the price has not changed to any great degree and the local price paid to producers remains as unremunerative as before. This refers also to the cocoa market.

Some sales have been effected recently at prices varying from £30 to £35, which net the cocoa planter here between £25 and £30. Stocks in European and American warehouses, however, re main very large and the demand for Samoan cocoa beans continues to be very unsatisfactory.

More Bananas From Samoa

Owing to the increase in banana exports from Samoa during the coming year, the Samoan growers in more distant districts are to be allowed to share the benefits. The native growers in the

Faasaleleaga district on the island of Savaii have been informed by the Administration that they may prepare to ship bananas next year, and they are duly grateful for the opportunity.

Harbourmaster’S New Launch

A new and locally built motor vessel for the use of the Harbourmaster’s Department was launched recently and christened at a pleasing little ceremony by Mrs. Hart, wife of the Adminis trator. The launch, which is a compliment to the skill of local artisans, has been named the “Pilot.” The last launch was wrecked in Apia Harbour, some time ago.

Bad Weather Damages Plantations

After we had suffered from a lengthy dry spell, the weather has changed at last and we are now right in the middle of the rainy season, with the usual and normal heavy rains. We had, in fact, a taste of hurricane weather recently when the glass dropped very low and a strong north-wester, ac companied by torrential rains, blew the whole day. Since then we have had intermittent rains and oppressively hot and close weather. The strong wind is reported to have caused a good deal of damage on banana and cocoa plantations.

Personal Notes

Rev. Father Schweer, of the Roman Catholic Mission, returned to Apia from Australia, via Pago Pago, after a lengthy vacation, which has benefited his health considerably.

Mr. E. E. Dunwoodie intends to leave for an extended holiday in New Zealand by next Mat son liner from Pago Pago. Mrs. Dunwoodie and Master Dunwoodie will accompany him.

Another batch of Administration officials is leaving the hospitable shores of Samoa by the outgoing “Maui Pomare.” Mr. C. Gair, Auditor to the Administration, who is transferred to the New Zealand Public Service, Mr. Nicol, of the Customs Department, and Mr. Cotton, head teacher of Malifa Government school, who is transferred to the Cook Islands Education Department, were the guests of honour at numerous farewell par ties and recipients of several presentations. Messrs.

Gair and Nicol have taken keen interest in Apia cricket; the former gentleman was president of the Apia Returned Soldiers’ Association.