In The New Hebrides
p. 13 · Read in the full issue
From Our Own Correspondent
Santo, Aug. 31.
MR. REECE DISCOMBE, well-known as a driver of midget cars in NZ and Australia, has left to view the wreck of the Koro, down Vila way. The Koro hit a reef and sank in a few feet of water, but has since slipped into deeper water.
Mr. Discombe has hopes of possible salvage. If ingenuity counts for anything, Reece will float the ship—if it is worth floating.
Condominium
A RECENT visitor (to Santo was the small French gun-boat, Tiare. The officers and men of the trim, white vessel were entertained at a cocktail party before departure.
Earthquakes
WE have been experiencing a few shakes lately. The first of the tremors caused the coconuts to fly like can nonballs. The second shake, a few days later, was not so severe, but more sus tained. In between, there were gentle tremors one night, which lasted from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Somehow, I just could not sleep—l remembered Napier, NZ. Old residents of the Group tell me that no damage is caused.
Labour
TT is reported from Noumea that the I first contingents of the new Javanese indentured labour are not very happy —it is uncertain whether they are just plain homesick or are not satisfied with their contracts. The first parties of Javanese for this group are due here shortly, and planters are looking forward to the influx. With the New Hebridean native becoming increasingly worldly—and he also listens to certain newly-settled Tonkinese who pose the question, “Why work for a boss when you can do better on your own?”—the plantation-owners are finding it very difficult to economically work their plantations.