Papeete's Successful Fair

From Our Own Correspondent

Papeete, July 26.

BETWEEN showers of rain, we suc ceeded in getting to the Fair-Expo sition, recently held in Papeete, and we were amply repaid. It is heartening to discover that the old handicrafts of our Polynesian people have not been dis carded: the intricate basket-work woven of the stout ’ie’ie (the fine roots of Frey cinetia Victoriperrea); tapa cloth, stained with designs, after the ancient manner; fine mats interwoven with colours in traditional patterns; wood-carvings inlaid with pearl-shell: the model of a canoe paddle—its entire surface carved and inlaid with mother-of-pearl by a young soldier from the Marquessas Islands. All these were visible evidence that the extra ordinary beauty of Marquessas art has not perished.

I wish I could describe each exhibit; for all are worthy of praise. One cannot, however, omit from special mention, the exhibits of the several schools. They were admirable. Nor may one neglect to praise the skill and fine workmanship that was evident in the display of machine parts fashioned by our island artisans Notwithstanding the wretched weather, the festival was a happy occasion. Sing ing contests, and healthy outdoor sports were carried on between showers, and there was'so much of interest to look at whenever one had to get under cover.

The increasing interest in out-of-door sports is one of the most promising assurances of the health and happiness of our young people. Military training has instilled in the minds of our young men the value of discipline and sports manship which will serve them well as they grow older.