Death Of Polynesian

Aristocrat

From Our Own Correspondent

Papeete, June 20.

TAHITI and Huahine have been plunged into mourning by the tragic death on June 15 of a member of the ancient royal family, Maioatua Alex andre.

He was a grandson of Teriinavahoroa, who was the direct descendent of Tehaapapa L, first king of Huahine. The Huahine royalty derived its origin from the ancient Opoa, high chiefs of Raiatea, the ultimate source of all royal blood in the South Pacific. Intermarriage with the royal Pomare family of Tahiti cemented close relationship between the paramount high chiefs of the two islands.

Maioatua possessed in high degree those qualities of mind and heart, which inspire esteem and affection. How genuine has been that affection was attested at the ceremonies at the church and when he was laid at rest at Paurani.

His Excellency the Governor, and the Mayor of Papeete, were officially repre sented; every member of the royal family was present; and the assembly of mourners was beyond counting. The memorial service which followed the burial and which continued until sun rise, was a most solemn and impressive tribute.

Mrs. Cooper, wife of Dr. R. W. Cooper, Medical Officer in Rabaul, arrived in Mel bourne from New Guinea with her two small daughters, Hilary and Cynthia, by the Tanda on June 28.

Mrs. M. Coggins, wife of the Secretary of the Emperor Gold Mine Co., Tavua, arrived in Fiji by the June Mariposa.

Miss Cora Young and Miss Vi Quintal, of Norfolk Island, arrived in Sydney for a holiday by the Morinda on July 6.

Mrs. G. G. Kermode, wife of Inspector Kermode, of the Fiji Constabulary, re turned to Suva after a visit to New Zealand, by the June Mariposa.