NORFOLK ISLAND.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XL, Issue 12415, 10 November 1903, Page 6

NORFOLK ISLAND.

[FROM our OWN correspondent.] October 14. ON the evening of the 15th ult. a meeting was held to consider a paragraph in the New Zealand Financial Statement/ wherein the Premier of New Zealand outlined a policy for the extension of trade between New Zealand and the Islands of the North, principally Noumea. The meeting hoped that Norfolk Island, as a port ot call, would be taken int-9 consideration in the proposed steam service, and promised support. A letter and cable were forw-'-ded to Mr. Seddon, who sent a favourable reply by cable, and awaits the receipt of the letter. The Rev. R. 11. Laverty. the Wesleyan minister, has had a quarterly examination of his high school, and expresses himself as highly pleased with the result. Mr. Commissioner Oliver, attended by Mr. Murphy, of the Lands Office, has been busy almost every day examining into all sorts or grievances, principally the claimants to land under the so-called " Carrington system," end the occupation of the " houses" in town, which latter, it is stated, will not be interfered with until at anyrate the end of the third generation of the original allottees. Last night Mr. and Miss Oliver gave a ball at the Longridge Hall, which was very largely attended, and a great success. The whaling is not turning out very successful. Up to date No. 1 company have capturned three whales, malting about 10 tuns; and Na. 3 two small whales, yielding over four tuns. No. 1 company have been very unfortunate in that they have fastened to eight whales and lost 5, besides losing a boat, three tubs line, several harpoons, and other gear. The Bev. V. M. Aldous and family go to Sydney by the Ovalau. Mr. Aldous has been very unwell lately, and at one time was in a very critical condition.