Death Of A New Hebrides

Pioneer

ON April 25, at Whangarei, NZ, another pioneer of the New Heb rides passed on—Mr. F. J. Fleming, of Meta van Plantations, Ltd., Bushman’s Bav, Malekula.

For 30 years, Mr. Fleming lived at Bushman’s Bay. except for brief visits to Australia and New Zealand for medi cal attention. Under his supervision, Metavan steadily developed from the jungle until to-day it is the largest Brit ish-owned plantation in the group. On steamer days, the few settlers from the surrounding district assembled at his home to take delivery of their stores and accept his never-failing hospitality. He was a auiet, unassuming man. and his death will be regretted by both English and French. He is survived by a daugh ter, Mrs. Whiteman, who was born at Dip Point, Ambrym, a few hours before the great volcanic eruption, and who now is living in New Zealand.

Mr. John Herdman, who is on the staff of the Bank of New Zealand in Fiji, recently married Miss Margaret Barnett, only daughter of Major and Mrs. D.

Barnett, of Suva.

Mr. Oscar Nordman, of Papeete, Tahiti, has disposed of his well-known ship chandlery business in Tahiti, and has offered his services to the American mer cantile marine. Meanwhile, he is living at his plantation in Papara, Tahiti. At one time, Mr. Nordman was a well known member of the purser’s staff on vessels of the old Oceanic Company—the “Sierra”, “Sonoma” and “Ventura”, run ning between San Francisco and Sydney.