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Transcription
by the movies; furthermore he denounced America as a nest of
war propaganda and sabre-rattling.
August 15
The Museum revealed a splendid Maori collection- imp-
lements, dwelling-places, and dress; wonderful wood carving. The
bird and animal exhibits looked ratty; poorly mounted and ra-
ther jumbled. It makes one appreciate how valuable the groups
pictured in their natural environment by the artists in N.Y.,
are for fixing the specimens in the mind of the observer. I did
see one or two tattooed heads in very poor state; those on the
4th floor of our Museum are certainly remarkable. The Zoo was
very fine and the best thing the town offers. Located in a
large hallow with paths leading down in terrace fashion. The
carnivores looked in excellent shape; and quite a variety al-
though the institution is only four years old. Splendid bird
specimens, especially eagles and vultures; pigeons, parrots, and
finches were plentiful. The keeper was particularly proud of
the American bison.
August 16 Lat.34-21 S. Long.170- 1 E. Run 344
Since it is the end of winter down here we have deci-
ded not to go to Tasmania, which would cost us plenty and make
us very cold. The definite sailing date of the Mataram that will
take us to Tulagi is the 31st according to the purser. Saw six
mollyhawks which are following the ship and one lone black
storm petrel. I am tempted to float a hook out baited with meat
to see if I can catch one and try skinning it.
August 17 Lat.34-16 S. Long.162-37 E. Run 367
Someone had an idea that we should arrive two days
early but the Tasman Sea kicked up and the Aorangi is travel-
lng at half speed. So we shall arrive on the 19th, one day ear-
lier than the schedule calls for. The last days drag. Saw a few
shearwaters- I should say, puffinus (gavia or assimilis); flight
very rapid and zig-zag. The mollyhawks are still with us, beau-
tiful in flight.
Mollyhawks
in
flight