RECRUITING IN THE NEW HEBRIDES.

Te Aroha News, Volume VI, Issue 318, 21 November 1888, Page 3

RECRUITING IN THE NEW HEBRIDES.

Thb labour schooner Helena, which has arrived at Sydney, reports that when recruiting off Ambryn at Sai, three natives were taken on board with two others, who spoke English. One having a sore foot was refused engagement, and ■ was sent ashore with his wife in a boat. On reaching the beach, the boat's crew found a • crowd of natives, who fired at the recruiting boat. The second shob struck Heath, the mate. Three native boatmen jumped overboard and swam to the reef. One o£ them fired a shot at the natives, and In return he was shot in the head. The schooner, covering the boat, opened fire, and a hot skirmish took place, which lasted 10 minutes. The natives retired" to the bush and recommenced firing. While the recruiting boat was being recovered a continual fire was being kept ,up by the natives, the bullets flying in all directions. Heath was shot through the lefb thigh. A seaman named Osborn was also severely wounded in the head and thighs. The vessel sailed for Maliecolo, arriving the same night. H.M.6. Calliope entered the harbour, and the captain and Government agent went on board her to report the 'matter. The following day the French man-of-war i Fabert arrived, and an inquiry was held on board, some English officers „ being present. Tlie inquirers stated they could arrive at no conclusion, and requested ono Carmichael to visit the locality, as 1 the warship had no time to go. Carmichael declined, atating that the islanders were too treacherous," and nothing further was done. Admiral Fairfax and ' Captain Kane visited the Helena, and took the wounded men.to Noumea.