Simeli’S Song
p. 50 · Read in the full issue
THE coco-nut has eyes to see. (You’ll note them, little ones!) The old wives say, when palm trees sway.
Tree people start a-gossiping, Indignantly a’ quivering, Accuse the wind of blustering.
Like warriors’ head-dresses swing. (Then guard you, little ones!) The old man says that “nuts can peep.” (But reason, little ones!) Their good intentions who’d deny?
But step you fast, alert and spry, Walk warily beneath each palm.
But whisper ‘bu” (that spirit-charm)— Trees greeted thus should do no harm To cautious little ones.
Still, though the nuts watch where they fall, I warn you, little ones, Tree Spirits sometimes hear your spell, Accept your homage and mean well, Yet, even so, land on your head! (For “Cross-eyed” nuts may be misled ) “Such things have been.” the old wives said — So heed you, little ones!
Alice Allen Innes.
Mr. D. A. Donald, Agricultural Officer, Fiii, has been appointed Senior Agri cultural Officer in BSI.