The mandate for New Zealand to control Samoa on behalf of the League of Nations is almost completed.
Mr Massey has frequently been consulted by high authorities regarding the conditions, which practically eliminate international control.
The historic document, which has yet to go before the Council of the Powers and the Plenary Conference for approval is appreciably different from the original proposal.
It is impossible to publish the details, but it is permissible to say that in principle it means that New Zealand, whose administration and legislation will be exactly applicable to Samoa, New Zealand undertaking to prevent abuses, such as traffic in arms, in slaves, and in liquor.
It is also provided that if Samoa at any time desires absorption, its union with New Zealand will be agreed to by the League of Nations, which body must receive an annual report of New Zealand's administration of Samoa on the League's behalf.
There is absolutely no open door as regards trade or immigration, so enemy influence will be entirely removed.
The mandate has not yet been accepted by New Zealand, but it is deemed acceptable in its present form, and a satisfactory settlement is now in sight.
Bishop Neville's achievement
The consecration of St. Paul's Cathedral which took place yesterday, marks the completion of portion of the life task of the Primate (Bishop Nevill), who for years has laboured untiringly with the object of one day having a cathedral erected in Dunedin.
The completion of the first portion of the building must, therefore be exceedingly gratifying to Bishop Nevill, as it will also be not only to Anglicans but to the community in general. The architectural beauty of the structure is the first thing that strikes the eye.
Inside and out it is a place of beauty, everything harmonising in a manner which gives it a distinctive appearance, and when the whole of the Cathedral is completed there will be few finer buildings in New Zealand.
The attendance was as large as the seating accommodation of the building could provide for, and hundreds who were anxious to be present were unable to gain admittance. The gathering was truly representative of the town.
Gallipoli reserve
Mr Massey is taking steps towards securing the approval of the Peace Conference to the proposal that Gallipoli shall be placed under direct British control, so that the hallowed ground may be set apart as a commemorative reserve in tribute to the memory of the gallant Anzacs and British comrades who made Gallipoli a synonym for heroic endurance and noble sacrifice.
The aim is to have the reserve afforested by Anzac trees and evergreens, and to have the graves adequately marked and preserved.
800 socks
Mrs John Franks, of Yaldhurst, aged 79 years, has just completed her four hundredth pair of socks, all of which have been knitted with her own hands for the local Red Cross branch.
- ODT, 13.2.1919.
COPIES OF PICTURE AVAILABLE FROM ODT FRONT OFFICE, LOWER STUART ST, OR WWW.OTAGOIMAGES.CO.NZ
