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THE PEARL
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is
manned by a captain, a cook, one man at the life-line, two men at the
air-pumps and one diver. Each lugger will average half a ton of shells
per month ranging from 1600 to 2000 to the ton. The pearls like the
shells run white.
The
Australians are not only pushing this industry along their own coast,
but are extending operations along the islands north toward the
equator, wherever it is possible. And wherever they go they carry with
them the best modern appliances and methods. Lately however operations
have been considerably curtailed in the Torres straits owing to the
enforcement of laws for the protection of divers.
Lack
of men for diving caused some of the operators to use questionable
means to obtain a supply. Boats were sent through the South Sea among
the islands and aborigines, Chinese, and even European sailors, were
kidnapped and held in practical slavery. Many lives have been lost in
these fisheries and the evils connected with the industry became so
notorious that the government took action. It is probable that the
business will be reorganized and either conducted by the state or under
government
250
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