A Fine-Spirited Papuan
p. 52 · Read in the full issue
Hula Native Mauled To Death By Shark
From Our Own Correspondent.
Pt. Moresby, March 21.
THAT Papuans through the years have * shown remarkable courage and an unflinching attitude towards danger and pain, has been proved on countless occa sions. Their fortitude and pluck are well known; but an example of these qualities was shown in so marked a degree last month that it deserves special mention.
Laka Tapolo, a native of Hula, after being ferociously mutilated on the thighs and abdomen by a shark when bathing at Raukele, only 20 yards from the shore, was carried to the London Missionary Society’s hospital. Though terribly wounded, he apologised profusely to the Missionary, Government Officer, and Native Medical Assistant, who were en deavouring to ease his last hour, for the trouble he was giving them, and for the fact that he had not yet raised his tax money, which was due.
On being assured that there was no need to worry the native smiled happily, and to the end kept up his fine un flinching courage. It was with great respect that the two white men watched him die.
Laka Tapolo was one of Hula’s best cricketers, and was known as a “good sport.” He was a thoroughly honest man, and an earnest adherent of the L.M.S.
Mission.