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some interesting superstitions. A native never ever likes to sleep alone on account of evil spirits. One of my best lad had gone kava just a week previously when walking
alone. My boy though mission educted since babyhood still believes the same fears as his cannibal grandfather.

During the day a native hunting party passed on their way home. Fifty ducks and as many wallabies hung over their shoulders. All were victims of primitive hunting methods. Little joeys were kept alive for future killing. Bye & bye a crowd of noisy young girls appeared. One came close & asked the boys for a pannican. I understood & told her to go & drink from her hands. Seconds later they came skipping back saying there was a snake in the
creek. I raced down & saw it in the clear deep water. My cobber lieut also brought over his shotgun. Before we could fire a little fellow rushed over & warned us that the water
would dry up if that snake died. Well the water didn't dry up, neither did the girls chattering. My bloke reckoned they were all the same as the birds - too much talk.
The most of the week was filled with what would make interesting reading yet it is not for me to disclose. Perhaps when I get back I'll tell you these things.

As you many already know, our old boys said farewell and are home once again. A fair number are awaiting a later boat. Gee it was hard seeing them off. Poor devils, they waited so long for that ship to arrive. Their feelings on leaving were very mixed. It's so hard