Post-War Fervour In Old

Tahiti

Papeete, July 20. rpHE French liner “Sagittaire,” on both X her inward and outward voyages recently, brought excitement to Tahiti.

When she arrived in the Pass at day break one Sunday morning, a few weeks ago, she brought back to us nearly all the volunteers who left here on the troop ship “Monowai” in April, 1941, to fight for Free France. It was a great occasion.

From 50 miles at sea, the previous night, those on the ship could see our flashing signs of welcome.

An illuminated Cross de Lorraine dom inated the illuminations here. Other signs were “Maeva” and “Manava,” both meaning “welcome/’ On the ■ Customs Shed were signs “Bienvenue” and “lao rana oe Tamarii Tahiti.” As the liner came in, our guns roared a salute.

There were formal official greeting at the quayside, followed by enthusiastic scenes as the returned men were greeted by their eager relations. As each man came down the gangway, he was crowned with Leis. and garlands of flowers. The celebrations lasted many days.

When the “Sagittaire” came back on her return voyage, for Marseilles, in July, she carried 550 people, and another 150 joined her here. Again there were colour ful ceremonies on the quayside—this time, of farewell. In addition to 700 people, the liner carried a heavy cargo of nickel from New Caledonia, and 4,000 tons of Tahiti copra.