RAIN-MAKING.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVIII, Issue 45, 21 January 1938, Page 8

RAIN-MAKING.

(To the Editor.) Sir, —The rain in Canterbury at the end of December last is estimated to have saved the settlers more than £IOO,OOO, which represented their anticipated loss in failure of crops owing to the drought. Our last rain—about an inch 12 days ago—was not more than enough to discolour the water in the Manawatu, therefore another week without rain will make the position serious. To end the drought, and consequent increasing anxiety, without any chance of failure, I submit the following scheme: Let every farmer who can conveniently do so prepare to make a bonfire to be lighted at 8.45 p.m. on Tuesday next, January 25. A big blaze is not absolutely necessary and it need not last more than 15 minutes. Those who desire rain and have not the convenience for making a fire can exhibit that desire by assisting their neighbour to carry out the scheme. As there will probably be little or no wind at the time, the danger of the fire spreading will be small, yet needful precautions must be taken. In case rain falls during the meantime, it will, if only a few points, decrease the demand, probably in excess of the supply; other-' wise beneficial rain is certain to follow within about 48 hours. Time and space prevent a full explanation being given. The method appeals to materialists because the desire for rain is accompanied by physical expression. Encouragement, too, with hope strengthened with the fires started by neighbouring farmers illuminating the night at the same moment, and thus manifesting to its full extent the cooperative spirit of unity in overcoming the common enemy—the drought. Residents of the city may not start fires at that hour, but they will watch for the glare signals, and general expectations, whether of faith or incredibility, will probably produce an overcast sky, a sign that all is well and coming refreshing rain is assured. I regret the short notice. —I am, etc., C. H. MASON. Palmerston North, Jan. 21, 1938.