A Cook Is. Comedy

of Love

rE course of true love never did run smooth in the Islands, or anywhere else for that matter. A case in point was that of Ware Strickland, the half caste grandson of Geoffrey Strickland, who settled at Aitutaki (Cook Group) last century.

The original pioneer, Strickland, was an adventurous American, a well-known character in the Pacific in those days, who had roamed the seven seas. Ware,

his grandson, had his eye on Tapairu, a Rarotongan belle, who created something of a sensation at Aitutaki in 1902; but his parents had other ideas for Ware Without consulting him, they engaged him to the half-caste daughter of a trader at Manihiki Island. Ware, usually simple and quiet, explained that he had no wish to go to the other island for his bride. In fact, he refused to be sacrificed on the altar of matrimony to please his relatives.

But, in spite of all his pleadings, plans were rushed ahead for the wedding, and the arrival of the schooner “Tamarii Tahiti” provided an opportunity for the family to sail for Manihiki. His parents and sister were on board, but nothing was seen of Ware. He had adopted the only course; he had taken to the bush with his lady-love. Eventually, when he thought he was safe, Ware ventured near the shore, where he was promptly ar rested by Tiki-taunga,' the Aitutaki policeman. Cook Islands policemen in those days had not the foggiest notion of the law. Tiki used such force on the unwilling bridegroom that he was. at a subsequent examination, suspended from office. After all. Ware had committed no offence. Still, he was hustled on board, and the marriage duly took place at Manihiki. Polynesian tradition was strong in those days, and where land interests ran counter to the call of love, the for mer was often successful.

The ungentle upholder of the law, Tiki, would have been severely punished by the visiting magistrate except that there was no one to prosecute him—Ware was with his bride on the other island.

“Tetuareva”.