IN THE SOLOMONS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 19973, 17 October 1927, Page 7

IN THE SOLOMONS

N.Z. MISSION STEAMER Authorities Do Not Fear for Vessel’s Safety THE RECENT MASSACRE. (Per Press AUCKLAND- Oct. 15. The Melanesian Mission authorities in Auckland feel no anxiety whatsoever concerning the Southern Cross, stated Major 11. S. Robertson this morning, when replying to a report that a certain amount of concern was being shown for the vessel, which was due at the Solomon Islands.

The report added that it was not considered safe for the vessel to undertake any protracted 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 issued to the warship Adelaide to intercept the 'Southern Cross and ensure a safe passage to the group. h-w. 3 r( tford Ryp i7l;|i..o9Mt 14 Major Robertson explained that the massacre did not take place at Tulagai, but on the island of Malaita. Tulagai was not on thus island, but was the headquarters of the British Protectorate Government Jtnd 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 the Marine Department because the vessel was not equipped in accordance with the New Zealand wireless regulations, but as the vessel was registered in London it appeared that she was not governed by the Act, and so was allowed to proceed minus the equipment, •

AUSTRALIAN CRUISER ADELAIDE ARRIVES Received Oct. 16, 8 p.m. (A. & N.Z.) MELBOURNE, Oct. 16. A wireless message from H.M.A.S. Adelaide states that the cruiser has arrived at the Solomons.