Rehabilitation in the Solomons

Solomons

AFTER the harassing experiences through which the natives of the Solomon Islands have passed, owing to war conditions, one is pleased to learn on first-hand authority of the rehabilita tion of the native communities and of their returning to pre-war conditions, as mentioned in recent correspondence from Pastor N. A. Ferris, senior missionary of the Seventh-day Adventists, who has re cently made an extensive visit through the Western Solomons.

Left in charge of the mission work in that area, the native minister, Kata Ragoso, has done good work according to Government officials and Army officers.

Pastor Ferris writes concerning New Georgia Island as follows; — “The Marovo is now back in its pre war state. Village life has been resumed; the gardens are all bearing, and there is plenty of food. This is probably the first section of the Solomon Island Group to return to normal life, and this is largely due to Ragosb’s able leadership. His counsel and help have been greatly appre ciated by all here. . .

“The head station of the mission at Batuna is well preserved. The workshop is just as it was left by the mechanic, even to the shaft of the generator still in the vice. The machinery is well greased.

Vital parts were hidden by the boys. The launch ‘Portal’ is in good shape. The boys took the mast out and built a leaf house over it. The saw-mill will need a lot of replacements.

“A native worker, Bilisiri, took charge of the hospital. The white ants have eaten sections, but on the whole it is in good order. All the equipment was saved and a number of patients are at present being cared for. Bilisiri took great pride in showing me his records. The Govern ment has supplied a liberal amount of medicine.”