THE NEW ZEALAND FLAX.

Westport Times, Volume II, Issue 156, 30 January 1868, Page 3

THE NEW ZEALAND FLAX.

We extract the following correspondence from the Southland Times of the 'Bth instant:— London, Oct. 30. 1867. Sir, —Referring to the letters which I had the honor to address to you regarding the New Zealand Flax and Tussac Grass ex " Witch of the Tees," I regret to state that the enquiries which were instituted to ascertain the commercial value, and the adaptability -of these fibres for paper-making, have not proved satisfactory. You were informed that I had communicated with Mr E. M. Cameron, of the firm of Messrs Macniven and Cameron, of Edinburgh. Receiving no answer, I again solicited the favor of a reply, but I regret to say the assistance and interest which you indicated I might expect from that quarter have not been forthcoming.

Notwithstanding this, the subject continues to receive my attention. Other paper-makers have been invited to inspect and test the samples. Some of the bundles were unfortunately damaged by sea water, and do not present so attractive an appearance as they might have done. It is difficult to meet with manufacturers who will go to the expense and trouble of thoroughly testing the New Zealand flax. I am informed to do this it would necessitate an alteration in the ordinary machinery in use, and while an ! abundant supply of Esparto grass can be got at a moderate price, they are reluctant to do this. To ascertain the opinion of the trade upon the samples ex Witch of the Tees, Messrs Ellis and Hall, a London firm of the highest standing as Colonial Brokers, were good enough to exhibit them at their public sale. No bid was made for any portion of the flax or grasses, nor was any favorable opinion expressed as to their adaptability for paper-making. I do myself the pleasure to transmit to you a copy of a letter renorved from Messrs Kilis and Hale alrout their marketable value.

Judging from it; also from the conversation I have had with others, who have seen the samples, the opinion entertained by practical men appears to he that the fibres cannot be profitably imported. The (Spanish grasss, called Esparto, now generally used in paper-making, is both abundant and moderate in price, and unless New Zealand Flax is laid down in England at or about the same price, it could not find a ready sale for paper-making. It is freely admitted that the quality of the paper made from the pJiormium tenax is superior to that manufactured from Esparto fibre, but as the supply of the former is uncertain, and it undergoes a different process in manufacturing, the flax is unlikely to become generally used.

To send home the dried leaves in bales, greatly increases the cost of the raw material. The process of reducing them into half-stuff should be done in the colony by hydraulic pressure, the pulp might be made perfectly dry, and formed into cakes ; by this means a large saving in freight might be obtained. It is considered unadvisable to attempt at the same time to bleach the half-stuff; this can be done more economically in England. Various patents have been taken out for converting the flax, but as they do not appear to have been practically tested, I am unable as yet to form an opinion. s—l have the honor to be, Sir,Your most obedient servant, John Moeeison", His Honor the Superintendent, Southland.

Lime-street, 2nd October, 1867. Dear Sir, —We have made several enquiries regarding the utility of the grass and flax per " Witch of the Tees," and find it useless except for papermaking, and that only when used with other material of some more fibrous nature. It is nearer to the Esparto Grass, largely imported here from Spain, for paper-making, and sells at £4 15s to £5 per ton only.—We are, Dear Sir, your obedient servant, (Signed) Ellis and Hale. John Morrison, Esq.