Tribute to Dr. Buck
pp. 37-38 · Read in the full issue
/I FOOTNOTE to a recent controversy in the “ PIM” about Polynesian migra tions. It is written by the gentleman who criticised certain conclusions in Dr.
Buck’s book, “Vikings of the Sunrise — DOCTOR Buck, in his letter, refers to the “debatable” Micronesian theory.
Now, if I remember correctly, in “Vikings of the Sunrise” he states cate gorically that the original Polynesian migration at Ra’iatea came that way.
It was on that very statement I criti cised his book as a document on Poly
nesian migrations.
It was abundantly evident that Dr.
Buck did not evolve that theory, and I put the blame where it belonged—on the young cubs. Young cubs, if they survive, become bruins, and one is not surprised if they learn wisdom and gather some of the juicy fruit of the plum-tree—as Dr. Buck states. That does not alter the fact that while they were cubs they did some very cubbish things.
The Micronesian theory is one of these, so is that fairy tale of an 8,000mile voyage over an empty sea to fetch the sweet potato.
Dr. Buck has written a fine letter and I honour him for his loyal defence of his subordinates.
I have met him and I found him one of the most attractive personalities and interesting conversationalists I have ever encountered.
Information has been received in Sydney that Mr. M. G. Evensen and Mr.
W„ Korn, of the Carpenter plantation service, were taken prisoner by the Japanese in New Britain in July last. It is assumed that they have been shipped away to a northern prison camp. While the report is not official, it comes from what is regarded as a reliable source.