Bible Burning in Fiji.

Colonist, Volume XLVI, Issue 10659, 6 March 1903, Page 2

Bible Burning in Fiji.

Keceived March 5, 10.55 p.m

Brisbane, March 5.

The Fijian files by the s.s. Miowera contain lengthy accounts of the Bible burning. The first reference to the incident appeared in the "Western Pacific Herald," of February 13th, wherein it is stated that some months previously practically the whole Fijian inhabitants of the Province of Namose, hitherto professed Wesleyans, had turned Eoman Catholics. This caused no little excitement among the people. Various reasons were given for the occurrence. The "Herald" added, that the matter advanced another stage yesterday, when we are informed on reliable authority that some 238 Bibles, belonging to the Namose people, were publicly burned at the Catholic mission station at Naililili.

The next issue of the "Herald" contained a letter from Father Rougier, declaring both fact and statement in regard to the burning were false, and he adds: "From inquiry I feel certain that you have been misled by some malicious and ill-wishing individual." On February 21st, the Suva "Times" published a letter signed by the Rev. W. A. Burns, Wesleyan missionary, traversing Father Rougier's denial. The writer goes on to say:— "There are so many reputable witnesses, with so much substantial corroboration, one might calmly invite all the risk of a lawsuit upon the evidence." He adds: — "I fearlessly assert, except for the number of Bibles said to have been burned, the statement of the 'Herald' is perfectly correct. ' '