Catholic Sisters

Still in Northern Gilberts

WITH reference to the article pub lished on page 10 of this issue, concerning the whereabouts of the Catholic sisters in the Northern Gilberts: we made an inquiry of the High Com missioner for the Western Pacific, and on January 13 we were courteously advised from Suva as follows; “Twenty-one nuns from Butaritari and Marakei, who were being evacuated, are now at Tarawa. Four remain at Abaiang.”

Japanese were reported occupying Tarawa early in December, but are believed to have abandoned it again, so it is possible that the 21 nuns, together with the nuns who were stationed at Tarawa, are now out of enemy hands.

It is understood, however, that the Japanese remain in occupation of Butari tari and Abaiang, and probably Marakei.

“All Well”

We were officially informed on Janu ary 14: “Tarawa is no longer in enemy occupation and latest information re ceived indicates that all personnel are well.” (See also articles on pages 10 and 21.)