Taylor, Of Taveuni

Death Of John Graham

ONE of Fiji’s oldest, best-known and most successful coconut planters passed on on May 25, when Mr. John Graham-Taylor died peacefully at his old home, Undu Kacu, on Taveuni, at the age of 74. In the presentee of nearly every person on the island, amid many beautiful wreaths and the Fijian cere monial of mats and tapa, he was lowered by his sons and grandsons into the resting place which he himself chose, on his own Estate, some 20 years ago.

He was the son of Mr. Archibald Taylor, a stipendiary magistrate of Fiji, and he was bom on the old Government Station at Nadi in 1877. He was educated in New Zealand and, while quite young, he was associated with the late James Borron, on the Mago and Cecea plantations; and then he moved on to his own property on Taveuni, and there acquired the family estate of Undu Kacu.

In addition to being a successful planter, Mr. Graham-Taylor was a notable sports man—a good horseman, a good shot and a practised pugilist. His death will recall to many readers his picturesque activities on many a field of sport.

He is survived by his widow, and a large family of grown-un sons and daughters.

He had two sisters—Mrs. L. Elvira Wat kins, of Christchurch, NZ, and Mrs. A. B.

Edwards, of Suva, who recently returned from NZ.

Says a correspondent; “Hurricane Jack’ has ridden out his last strong gale, and come safely to anchor in that harbour from which there is no departure . . .

The last scene was impressive. It took place against a background of rugged peaks; the wind was muted down to a sorrowful rhythm, in his beloved palms; while a beautiful circle of soft clouds, like a diadem of welcome from stern old Mother Nature, closed a life of ceaseless endeavour.”

The Administrator of P-NG, Col. J. K.

Murray and Mrs, Murray, were guests of the Governor-General in Canberra during recent Australian Jubilee celebrations.