BOATING ACCIDENT IN FIJI.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLII, Issue 129, 2 June 1908, Page 6

BOATING ACCIDENT IN FIJI.

A NATIVE'S HEROISM

The Nateawa/ Bay correspondent of the Polynesian Gazette, 'writing on May 6, says:—"Three of Mr H. B. Smith's sons, whilst travelling in. a small sailing boat were capsized about two miles from land. They, had two natives on board (one a woman);, which was fortunate for them, as they were the only oneis that could swim well. Mr Sydney Smith could just swim a little; the other brothers riot at all. When the boat capsized Mr B, Smith, who is bj^indj caught hold of the woman, who was frightened at being dragged down. 'She thereupon shook him off, and swam to the shore to save; herself. The native man, seeing this, had the presence of. mind to get an empty meat case which was floating, and gave it to Mr R. Smith, and they then started for the shore, Whilst on their way R. Smith thought that it was impossible for them both to reach the shore, as the gale and sea. were terrific in their face, and he told the native man to leave him and save himself. The native refused, saying that he would save him or perish with Mm. wWhen "the native had landed Mr Smith safely on shore, he returned to the rescue of the others. Sydney. Smiths saved himself. Arthur Smith, who was kept afloat by two oars under his arms, was then1 rescued by the native. He swamf six miles and was five hours in the water. If anyone deserves a humane society's medal this native does."