The Month In Moresby
p. 78 · Read in the full issue
Pt. Moresby. May 6
WE cannot complain about lack of amenities. First we were given the picture theatre, then the new hotel.
A milk bar and ice-cream stand soon fol lowed. And now we have had a taste of the drama!
Perhaps it did not compensate for our misfortune in missing Sir Laurence Olivier and his lady; but nevertheless, “9.45,” a comedy-melodrama presented by the Moresby Amateur Dramatic Players, proved an entertaining trifle. It was enacted for two nights in the RAAF’s ‘Regent Theatre.” at Konedobu, and was very successful in every way. ♦ * * THE Deputy Prices Commissioner has announced an increase in the price of bread; it will now cost 2/7 per large loaf, 1/4 per small loaf.
Shopping in Moresby is quite an ad venture —there is always an element of surprise.
As you go into the store your com panion nudges you; “I wonder what butter will cost to-day,” she mutters. As butter was 3/9 per lb. last week, you make a speedy calculation: “4/3.” you reply.
Then you both fight your way to the counter, cross your fingers, and ask.
“Three and ninepence,” says the man who serves you—and you faint, * * * ON May 6. the Administrator (Colonel J. K. Murray), with Mrs. Murray and Mr. Justice Phillips, left Port Moresby for Sydney. It was not announced here that they would attend the South Pacific Commission, and it was supposed that their trip was connected with plans for the new administrative set-up. Mr.
Justice Gore took over at Government House. ♦ * * 4 T the moment sugar is very scarce in Moresby. The stores are limiting sales to European customers—and even then only 2 lb. at a time. Up to date, no European has to (pur knowledge gone without, but the natives are find ing the shortage irksome. Each day a couple of dozen ask us to buy them some of the rare white grains—but it cant be done when we ourselves like two spoonfuls in our tea.