ANNEXATION OF SUWARROW ISLAND.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1893, 18 May 1889, Page 1

ANNEXATION OF S U W ARROW ISLAND.

Auckland, May 15. The following in respect of the annexation of the Suwarrow Island has been written to the Herald by one who witnessed the ceremony :— <l Having arrived in view of the group early on 22nd April, the Rapid proceeded slowly and cautiously up to the Island of Suwarrow, and on a near approach one could see the flag of the British Mercantile Navy floating over the lighthouse. A newly-con-structed dwelling, but of very small size, was situated on the western side of the Island. On the eastern side of the island 'there was a large shed. There was no sign of life, with the exception of a few domestic fowls and an immense flock of sea birds. The group of islands is connected by means of large coral reefs, which stretch along the horizon as far as the eye can see, and are very numerous, hence our cautiousness in approaching the place. Arrived nearly opposite the pier, we were boarded by an aged and feeble looking man, who was evidently a native of Great Britain, and who told us he had been on the island for about two years. I believe he was in the service of the San Francisco Mail, steamers. He readily placed his knowledge at our disposal by showing the dangerous parts, pointing out a reef here and there which was not visible to the eye, and offering suggestions as to the best place to anchor. At last we dropped anchor in seventeen fathoms in what proved to be the channel. At 2 p.m. a party of seamen under the command of Lieutenant C. 0. Dacosta, E.N., landed from the ship to act as guard of honor, followed by a party of carpenters and excavators to erect a flagstaff on which to hoist the flag. A photographer also landed to take a photo, of the group while in the act of performing the ceremony. The usual proclamation, signed by Capt. Castle, was fixed to a board, and when the flag was hoisted the men presented arms, the bugles sounded the royal salutes, and at the same time the ship thundered forth the royal salute of 21 guns.