CENSUS OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

A census of the population of the Samoan group has been taken. The number of Samoans in Upolu and other islands under the German government is 32,000, while the population of the six islands under the United States government is returned at 5,900. The very slightest increase during the last thirty years is about the same in proportion all around. The infant mortality is greatest, and this is due in a large measure to the ignorance and carelessness in dieting the young. It is not unusual to see a mother feeding her infant from the mouth after she has herself masticated the food intended for the child. It is only since the United States took possession that people have been able to receive medical advice and treatment. With the sanitary laws now in force and the laws concerning the health of the people generally throughout the island, it is hoped that during the next decade there will be a considerable increase of the population.

Governor Tilley returned from New Zealand on March 18. The natives showed their delight at the governor's return by giving a number of feasts in his honor.

Magisterial returns from all justices have been sent into the high court of all cases tried by magistrates up to the end of last month. The reports indicated great improvement among the Samoans. These statements, together with the regular reports of the native governors and other officials, are carefully prepared and are models of neatness. The native officers are not lacking altogether in education, but there is good opportunity for the United States to assist them in their desire to obtain greater knowledge.