The Virtues, And The

Papuans

Letter to the Editor CHE recent misadventure which befell the Treasurer of a native Co-oper ative Society causes reflection on the irtue of probity in relation to the New ook, with which the New Order proposes ) endow the Papuan—as rapidly and ex snsively as possible.

Intelligence is possibly not the pre igative of any race or colour, given luality of opportunity for its develop ient. Initiative is fostered bv the neces ty to achieve or starve: administrative inability is a plant of slow growth, but ;tainable.

Probity is a virtue of very slow growth.

In the main, even in 1948, the European ill holds to that virtue, bequeathed to im by his one-time Roman mentors: in position of trust he is trustworthy.

By this quality above all others, and 3t by accident, he still bestrides the orld.

In the main, the Papuan, as yet, does Dt possess this quality; until he does 3 cannot manage hte own affairs and lie m his own country.

Admiration for, and understanding of m, is not confined to those who know ast about him; but I. for one, will look )wn from Paradise with much interest ; the conduct of Papuan judges, bank anagers, accountants, plantation man ners, and the like.

An eighteenth century king of Naples id the Two Sicilies was approached by s War Minister regarding a change in rmy uniform.

“Dress ’em in red; dress ’em in blue; ey 11 run away just the same,” replied ie monarch.

I am, etc.,

G. T. Gemmell.

ipua, June 7, 1948.