ON A CORAL REFT.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 2742, 7 September 1923, Page 9

ON A CORAL REFT.

NATIVE BOY SCOUT'S BRAVERY. LAUNCH WRECKED. A exciting experience i 3 reported from Samoa. It appears that thi launch Bonito left Avoa, Savaii, ai night with two Europeans, Mis uariino and child, and a party of ounioan boys. A heavy wind squall, accompanied by blinding rain swept down upon the little boat. For some time the launch ploughed along, until ah sense of direction was lost. Suddenly, with a terrific crash the vessel hit a reef. At once the launch was enveloped in foaming breakers. Every effort was made to get off, and the captain and some of the boys jumped over board and tried to push her clear of gripping claws of the coral. When their efforts proved hopeless two of the boys bravely sel out to iind the shoro. Then a Boy Scout'went over, but lost his sense of direction, and came back, only to start off again. Then two of his companions quietly slipped after him. The people on board in meantime had a most unenviable time. Waves dashed over the little vessel, and every moment promised to be their last. Mrs Barline proved herself a heroine. She urged the others to make for the shore, if only they would take the child. At last lights were seen on the shore-rthe boys had obtained asisstance—and a boat came off and rescued the party.