MISSION STEAMER.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLVII, Issue 273, 17 October 1927, Page 6

MISSION STEAMER.

NO ANXIETY FOR SAFETY. Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, Oct. 15. The Melanesian Mission authorities at Auckland feel no anxiety whatsoever concerning the Southern Cross, stated Mr H. S. Robinson when replying to a report that a certain' amount of concern was being shown for the vessel, which is due at the Solomon Islands. The report adds that it is not considered safe for the vessel to undertake any protrhoted tour of the Solomons, especially Tulagai, where the recent massacre occurred, and in view of the fact that she was not equipped with wireless. Instructions had been isued to the warship Adelaide to intercept the Southern Cross and ensure her safe passage to the group. Mr Robinson explained that the massacre did not take place at Tulagai, but on tho island of Malaita. Tulagai was not in this island, but was the headquarters of the British Protectorate Government and the residence of the Commissioner.

It will be recalled that when the Southern Cross left Auckland recently her departure had been delayed for several hours by tho Marine Department because she was not equipped in accordance with the New Zealand wireless regulations, but as the vessel was registered at London it appeared that she was not governed by the Act, and so was allowed to proceed without the equipment.

H.M.S. ADELAIDE AT SOLOMONS

MELBOURNE, Oct. 16. A wireless message from the Adelaide states that tho cruiser has arrived at the Solomons. —Press Association.