“Ilha Formosa"

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 14, 18 January 1937, Page 11

“Ilha Formosa"

The Japanese have a custom of keeping their most valuable family treasures in a kura or strong-room, from which they are produced one or two at a time for the enjoyment of their guests. This is symbolic of the way Japan entertains the visitors who come in increasing numbers to her shores. She shows them one or two of her heirlooms, like the architecture of Nikko or the majesty of Fuji, as foretastes of other treasures which she will produce when she sees fit. For Japan is singularly rich in this hidden wealth of nature and of art. Other countries produce their all "nd make a lavish display, but she with a true Oriental reserve leaves her wondering guests to imagine for themselves something of the secrets that lie in her kura. It is only as they cease to be acquaintances and become friends that they are let more into the family secrets. Perhaps the last treasure that Japan will reveal is one but few have seen and yet in a way is the finest ofthemall—the mountain scenery of Formosa. According to a Chinese legend two dragons, who lived somewhere near the eastern gate of the city of Foochow, decided one day to have a bathe. Being accustomed by nature to a somewhat heated existence, they found the cool waters of the Pacific so pleasant that a their Tesultant frolics they churned up the bed of the ocean floor to such effect that when finally they retired to their