USES FOR WHISTLING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3746, 26 January 1928, Page 4

USES FOR WHISTLING.

Among the new methods of communication that are being revealed the homely art of whistling holds its place. The shrill whistle of the policeman, the soft whistle of the schoolboy signalling to his companion to come out, still fulfil their purpose. There is one place in the world where whistling has supplanted speech, telegraphy and postal service alike (says the Christian Science Monitor). In one of the Canary Isles, where there are no carriage, roads along the deep ravines and precipices, but only steep and slippery bridle paths, the inhabitants depend on whistling as their chief method of communication, and all messages are sent this way. Although the notes are shrill and piercing enough to be heard three or Tour 1 miles off the best whistlers do not use their fingers, but rely on variations of intensity and a definite range of intonations. Whole conversations are carried on across the valleys from village to village. If messengers are needed to take letters, fetch and carry, the whistle promptly calls into action; and if the message is not understood the hearer whistles back a request for repetition.