Whet Happens in Lonely Islands

When Markets Disappear

From Our Own Correspondent

Rarotonga, Oct. 21.

WITH the complete absence of a copra and pearl market, the atoll islands of the Northern Cooks (Manihiki, Rakahanga. Penrhyn, Puka Puka. etc.) are faced with the complete cessation of supplies of their long-accustomed cotton goods. rice, sugar and flour.

It is understood that the Cook Islands Administration is conferring with the New Zealand Government, with a view to purchasing local copra at a payable price, but no result has yet been made known. The large trading firms, who have been “carrying” these islands for' the past twelve months, have now been compelled to cease buying copra alto gether as. with full sheds and no prospect of a steamer, the risk is too great.

Mr. L. Trenn, Resident Agent of Mani hiki and Rakahanga. who returns from leave to his post this month, is making efforts to revive the export on a large scale of the beautiful Manihiki hats, mats, baskets and belts which were so famous all over the Pacific. These are of the finest manufacture, and materials, and can be bought more cheaply now than ever before in view of existing con ditions. Those interested in these, or any other. South Sea handicrafts should communicate with Mr. Trenn or the Cook Islands Administration.

Mr. Alfred Lennard McGowan, son of Mr. and the late Mrs. W. E. McGowan married Miss Amelia Maud Gosling, daughter of Captain and Mrs. H. Gos ling, of Suva, Fiji, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church recently. The couple have made their home at Tavua.