Sunday, November 26, 1939
It's really Dec. 2nd and this is the first time I have been able to find time
to catch up on this book. Things really began to happen last Sunday and haven't
slowed up yet. I led Priesthood meeting with a lesson on the Picture Story.
From there into S. S. and a few minutes after that a ship was sighted from above.
We packed and when time for Sac. Mtg. came around we went to Church. I took
charge of meeting and Elder B. talked. Just as I was giving my closing remarks,
with twenty-five minutes yet before the hour was up and up to me to hold
out that long, Elder McEntire and Price were sighted coming down the road.
I kept on talking, touching this and that until they got close by then we called them in.
I called on both of them and though they were dirty, etc. they did for a minute
or so. After meeting it was just a matter of getting off, saying "goodbye",
tending to last minute matters, etc. Had a hard time getting over the reef,
got wet, had a thrill or two, as it was dark, and a few minutes after
arriving on ship, I was riding the rail. Went to sleep soon after on the deck.
Nov. 27 we traveled all day, cutting right close to Haraiki allowing a little fishing to be done. Caught three big ones before heading for open sea again. On the bigger waves again I hit the rail.. shucks!
Nov. 28. Landed in Anaa early in the morning. Taho took us to his home; we bought the food and they prepared us a swell meal. Gauta was inland so I didn't meet him. Elder P. wouldn't even go ashore. Sissy!! Stayed there all day and left in the evening.
Nov. 29. Traveled all day, feeling O.K. Sighted Mehetika.
Nov. 30. Sighted Tahiti early this morning and landed at five in the afternoon after quite a miserable trip; rain and all. Met a whole bunch of Elders here... in fact there are sixteen of us. Of course we did plenty of visiting and the usual stuff. Showered, ate, talked, read mail from Mother & Dad (2), Barbara (2), Mapuhi (2). Found plenty to do until 2:30 A.M. and then went to sleep... tired but not sleepy.
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Dec. 1. Still plenty to do. A gospel class and grammar for all after breakfast. I talked over my three minutes and got the gong. In the afternoon a few of us went out to the ball park. Of all the out-of-conditioned guys! I got fagged out after one game of twenty one and a set of tennis. Played more but was plenty tired. Kuraniu came in today from Hik... received a letter and picture from Manava. She just don't forget. Plenty to do at night binding more books. Played a couple games of Chinese checkers and went to bed plenty tired.
December 2, 1939
Now I am back to today's work. This morning I sluffed off class to go to the attic to work on my
odds & ends. Imagine my surprise to see the tapoi roi Heia made for me in my trunk.
Ioane had brought it in. Revi left for America today so spent quite sometime in town
seeing him off, shopping, etc. Bought a pen, socks, ink, pictures and what ever else it was.
I'm sending only one letter to the folks, a very short one to Barbara, and one to Lucille.
Should have written more but just haven't been in the mood. Stayed home most of the day (afternoon)
finishing time sheets. In the evening was called on to go to the home of Poni ma .
His wife is quite ill i te vairaa tamarii .
We talked to encourage her a little and held a prayer there. Elder Chugg was my companion.
Came home, mopped around doing this and that and am ready now for bed.
December 3, 1939
Sunday again in Papeete with another record broken. Every one of us, including Pres., bore our
testimonies as this is the last meeting of the year of that type. Elders Young and Wilde came in
from the Leewards yesterday so that gave us twenty today. Nothing out of ordinary except a long
talk with Pres. out here on the back porch in the afternoon.
December 4, 1939
With four meetings today and the Tolten coming from the States with mail I can easily
write today's diary. Pres. Stevens led a class immediately after breakfast and gave us an idea of
te huru o te ohipa e ravehia e matou a parahi ai matou io Tahiti nei . After that we
got paired off for companions while we are here, for tracting, etc. Elder McEntire is to be my
companion. Then came our Tahitian Grammar class with my subject being on Pre-existence. After that
Ray and I went to town, bought my two shirts, left shoes to be half-souled, and my watch to repaired.
Also went to the wharf and saw the Tolten . Saw a Chinaman get a bundle of laundry
dropped on him too. Pres. assigned me to take charge of the Gospel Doctrine class, the big 2 hour
class for the afternoon, with all the assignments to make. Uela, Haurata, Nile, Viri and myself
were speakers today. Ship brought me a letter from Mother & Dad, one with letter and card &
clippings, one from Bishopric ma , card from Relief Society and letter from Owen.
Always welcome though I don't get enthused over mail anymore. Should have gone Ward Teaching tonight
but Teahu didn't show up.. very few natives did. I stayed home and read tonight.
December 5, 1939
Class again just after breakfast in which I talked on Te Tiamaraa o te Taata. Then Elder Mc.
and I went out to look over our tracting district. Found a Catholic Church, three Chinese schools,
plenty of stores, hotels and a few residential hangouts. We just looked today. Took over G. Doc.
class again and assigned myself the most difficult talk for tomorrow. A group of us went out to
exercise again today at the ball park.
Tonight I received a package from home with shirts, garments, pens & sets of tie holders. It's a rembrance of Xmas all over again. Work night tonight but Ray and I hurried with ours and finished it early. Surely busy these days with always plenty to do. Weight 162 lbs. Down again.
December 6, 1939
We are surely back to school again and having plenty of studying to do. We attend one hour
grammar class following breakfast then change class or separate into groups for talks in Tahitian
on the Gospel. Then two hours for tracting if weather permits. Following dinner comes our two hour
Gospel class. Today I talked fifteen minutes on Salvation and the Degrees of Glory. Still have a
five hundred word theme to write on Why Mormonism. Oh, we're busy but still there is plenty of
time left. The rainey season is on so we don't get out much. Attended mtg. at night.
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| Elder Ray McEntire, Re Na Rutena: Ia ora na oe: A remembrance of our true companionship that we have enjoyed since first meeting and in the service of the Lord in the Tahitian Mission. E haamanaia roa, e ei taoa oroha ia ne. Re, Ray O. McEntire, Clearfield, Utah U.S.A. |
December 7, 1939
Same periods as yesterday. In the morning Re & I started out tracting. Had no sooner reached
our district and a rain comparable to few I've seen struck. We got inside of Wa Sang's and stayed.
Ordered another shirt while there. Trying something new for tomorrow in Gospel class.. extemporaneous.
My idea, and I hope it works. Got my shoes back today with a good job on them. Singing practice at night.
December 8, 1939
More rain; more classes; more studying. This morning I talked five minutes on Book of Mormon and
then spent most of the morning in talking rafters with Viri and studying for extemporaneous work.
After dinner we hed class. I led; we drew topics from a hat and spoke on whatever we drew. There
were seven blanks and twelve topics. I drew and talked a few minutes on Baptism required of All,
& The Gospel yet Unknown to many. It was interestingo note how well all the elders accepted
and talked. Pres. gave us all quite a compliment. Went to town today got my shirts altered and
bought a pair of canvas shoes. This evening was evening for work. I sewed twenty three books.
Later we hed a little gathering to discuss future work. Some are to sing on radio nites and we
all (but Hunting) are going to play ball tomorrow, weather permitting. More pinapple at night.
December 9, 1939
This morning I spoke on Te Faarooi te Mesia and tried to take up time; can't say as how I was
very successful. It rained most of the morning but following dinner it stopped and turned into
a good day for our competition with the Juniors. All of us went out but Uela and Price. In the
ball game we had a big sixth inning, pushng over sixteen runs. We rather knocked their ears down
to the tune of 30-20 (Sounds more like a basketball score. I played pitch, first-base and left
field, knocked three home-runs and had a swell time all in all. In basketball though it was different.
They licked us by 50-30. No excuses. In tennis Rui (Elder Randal) and I beat Elder Benson and
Christensen 6-2 and Elder Christensen and I beat Benson and Randal 4:1 called on acount of rain
and we were tired anyway.
Today is Pres.'s Birthday; he served the ice-cream. Tonight were try-outs for Quartets. Later Elder Richards and I translated "Sowing" into Tahitian.. in half an hour, three verses. Still later went into the kitchen for snack of fruit before retiring. Eleven o'clock and the roosters are crowing. Ua oti.
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| Ia ora na oe, Rui. Best Wishes and Success. Elder Howard L. Randall R.D # 3 Ogden, Utah |
December 10, 1939
I jumped out of bed this morning but that is as far as I got. I soon realized I was not as young
as I once was. Surely am plenty stiffened up from the episode of yesterday. Today I went to
Priesthood meeting and there received an assignment of a talk for Sac. mtg. Following that I
attended Sunday School and was asked to go out and represent the Mission at a baptism along
with Elder Randal. I closed the meeting on the banks of the river with prayer. On returning
back to Church we found it time to start Sac. Mtg. There I passed Sacrament and talked about
ten minutes on "Te Ho'e Faufaa Rahi o to Paulo Oraraa ia Tatou Nei." Then following
meeting was dinner, and while sitting here on the back porch I played a game of Chinese checkers,
wrote Owen a letter, and finished my essay on "Why Mormonism." Mtg. again tonight. Terahoa surely
showed she was from the sticks.
Monday, December 11, 1939
Began my new assignment by typing a bunch of "himene papai " for the Elders and
Branch. That used up four hours, two hours in language class, two in Gospel class, in which
I drew a blank today, and the rest of the day in limping around stiff as ever. Caught up on
reports tonight. Ready for a new day. Surely enjoy it here.
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| Elder Howard Heusser, Haurata |
Tuesday, December 12, 1939
I barely have time to write in this diary it seems. This morning Elder Heusser and I went to
play tennis. We managed to get in a set and three games before returning to the house in time
for breakfast at 6:00. Two hour class again in grammar, and then I went into office work again.
After dinner we held our two-hour Gospel class. I drew "Unauthorized Ministers" and talked
about seven minutes. At 3:00 back again to tithing reports while the gang went to play ball.
Late in the afternoon Elder Sanford and I walked to town; I obtained my shirt from Wa Sang.
Returned to Home after admiring how pretty the wharf and mountains looked in the sunset.
Back to work again and Teina and I finished Tubuai's three Branches' report. Now before
retiring I am going to try to read the 34 pages assigned for tomorrow in Extemporaneous class;
Goodness, I'm sleepy.
Wednesday, December 13, 1939
Elder Heusser and I were up again at 4:30 A.M. and out playing tennis by daylight. Managed to
take Elder H. in two sets today. Back again just in time for a shower and breakfast, two hour
grammar class, two hours on tithing report, then dinner, the two hour meeting.. I talked again,
and then, grabbing a "breather" Elder Sanford and I went to Spitzer's and had our pictures taken.
Back again to finish Papeete Branch, dinner (supper), meeting again and now ten minutes to go
before lights out. I guess I'll go downstairs and study for tomorrow. Surely a "work-shop"
around. Anybody comes in from the Tuamotus for a rest had better go back!
Thursday, December 14, 1939
Mine and Tere's turn to get breakfast e ua na reira maua. More Tahitian class
with back to speaking, then during my two hours office work I finished the Tithing report.
Just before class in the afternoon Elder Chugg and I were called out for an administration.
Poni's wife is ailing again. I did the sealing. I spoke again in G. class. This evening the
gang went to the show. Waikiki Wedding ; surely good. About 16 of us went.
Friday, December 15, 1939
All the same today as past days along lines of study and classes. In work hours I finished
up the Tithing report and began on Elder's reports. Farane [Sanford] and I went after our
proofs today; I ordered a dozen made of the portrait for a hundred and ten francs. This
evening I wrote a letter home & began one to Vern. Surely have two kankers that bother me.
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Ia ora na Rutena May this picture serve as a remembrance of our Missionary days in Tahiti. May God bless you always. Sincerely yours F. Dee Sanford "Farane" |
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Saturday, December 16, 1939
Farane and I obtained a couple of monos for us this morning in the office work and we
skipped off for a game of tennis. He took me two out of three sets under a hot sun. We
returned a little late for dinner but didn't get bawled out. The gang all went to play
ball again in the afternoon, the Seniors again taking the Juniors by 34 to 15. I pitched
five innings and got two homers.. one left handed and one right. All went for a fresh
water swim up faataua canyon. Results for the day show a good sunburn and big blister
on bottom of my foot. Made candy at night, wrote to Owen, Vern and Mother, obtained my
pictures, and went to bed plenty tired.
Sunday, December 17, 1939
Sunday finds me crippled again and a hot back. Ship came in going to the States; wrote to
Grandma and Bishop. Attended Priesthood meeting, S.S. and Sac. Mtg. sluffed off Feia Api
to keep Mc. company, he is sick, and to write my fable on the Pigs & the Wolf in Tahitian.
Slept for a short while in the afternoon.
Monday, December 18, 1939
This month is surely speeding along; just like the rest of them. We are always busy but not
doing much but attend the two meetings, etc. Today I was put on type reading... I still
believe Pres. is going to stick me here in the office yet. Unable to go tracting today due
to two things and my Senior Elders work. I have been made a Junior now with Elder Richards
my Senior. Positions have all been changed; the real Juniors are the Seniors this week...
Pres. is giving them all a chance at responsibility. It is a break for us Seniors. Staying
in tonight.
Tuesday, December 19, 1939
Received a new assignment today from Pres and it is keeping me busy on proof reading. Besides
classes I have spent practically all my time in the office. Work night and Uela and I & Chugg
worked over-time trying to get the calendar stapled and finished.
Wednesday, December 20, 1939
During breakfast this morning Elders Setevens, Asay,
Peterson and Halverson walked in on us; Steve with
a two month beard and Pereti with a goatee & mustache.
We surely got a laugh, and were glad to see them.
Spent the day as usual, and went out and played ball.
I've surely lost my interest in
basketball. I got my sunburn peeling now.. worst
I ever had.
Thursday, December 21, 1939
Today was the same as usual with the exception of a bunch
of us going out to the ball park in the
afternoon and indulging in a little basketball. The
Juniors still hold the edge on us. Elder Randal and
I played Elders Benson & Chris. in tennis and they cleaned
us. Prepared lessons for tomorrow. Went tracting.
Friday, December 22, 1939
If it weren't so interesting and keeping us busy,
this scedual would get very monotonous. In Gospel
class we each had a chapter to cover in the Articles
of Faith and not to talk over five minutes. I was
5 minutes and 30 seconds in covering the Holy Ghost.
After class our quartet got together and practiced again.
Stayed home all afternoon and at nite, being work nite,
I bound and finished the "38" ve'a books.
Saturday, December 23, 1939
Just came back with a big piece of cheese from a
trip to the kitchen and now before retiring I shall
try to write the day's happenings. Farane, Etera, Lui
and I got up this morning at 4:30 amidst a sham
battle of machine guns, air ships, men, etc. and went
out for some tennis. We started playing when it
was just about too dark to see the ball. We played
about 8 sets and returned to the house too late for
breakfast and class so I began my essay for Monday.
Following dinner twenty-one of us went to play ball.
Pres. ma came out later. We had a tougher game today
but once again the Seniors won by score 29-26, following
which we went swimming again. Pres. & kids went in
with us. Haven't done much since but eat, shower, clean
up a bit, and get a rub-down. Sunburned again a little
on my new skin.
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Sunday, December 24, 1939
Back to Church again for Priesthood Mtg., Sunday
School and Sac. Mtg. and then in the afternoon
I finished, almost, my essay on "If Thou Art the
Son of God...". This evening we attended the Reorganite
services. They surely put on a nice
Xmas program. Ani's wife had asked four of us
to come down to their meeting. They had a
big tree loaded down with sacks of candy & gifts,
which they gave to each after his name was
read. Our names were right near the first. They
called out "Orometua Mormoni", and you could
have upset us. Some of Taura's work all right.
After the program, which lasted over three hours (We left before it ended), we walked through town. Three dance halls were in full swing, and they surely had to te oire turned out. We hurried right on by, though the music sounded very good. After getting back to the house, the four of us, Nile, Viri, Ravora and myself, went around to each of the Elder's bed, awakened them and wished them a Merry Xmas. More fun! I surely don't get homesick.
Monday, December 25, 1939
Merry Christmas! And surely has been. We have
been playing all day it seems. At daylight Farane,
Etera, Melevina and I went out for a few sets of
tennis. Returned back a few hours later and
drank lots of limeade. Completed recopying my
Essay before dinner and handed it in. Read a
few pages on Joseph Smith's prophecies and then
went to our Xmas dinner. This menu should
be worth mentioning: chicken, fried and boiled,
chicken noodles & gravey, creamed pea gravy, hash,
mashed American potatoes, pickles, olives, lettuce,
water cress, and then topped it off with pineapple
ice cream and fruit cake. Not long after dinner
we went out to play ball again. This time the
Juniors were ahead 21 to 19 at the sixth inning
then they wouldn't play anymore. Went to play
basketball. Now I know basketball isn't what
it used to be to me. I didn't have any desire
to play and so I didn't. Had a good program
among the Elders tonight. Exchanged gifts, sang, ate
candy & nuts, laughed & laughed, saw King of Kings
recording and am now ready for bed. G. Night.
Tuesday, December 26, 1939
Two more of that kind of meeting that a person
is priveleged to attend only once in a life-time.
Twenty-five of us, the only group with like authority
in this part of the world, bore testimonies of the truth
of the Gospel. These meetings are certainly held in a
beautiful Spirit. It took the twenty-five of us seven
hours to complete; two installments. I am keeping
minutes for the entire meetings. Tonight was work
night but it didn't take long to finish folding ve'as .
Retired about 10:30 P.M.
Wednesday, December 27, 1939
Seven more hours divided between two meetings
today. In the morning one Pres. Stevens told us
his life history and a few instructions. In afternoon
meeting four Elders discussed arguments against other
chrches. We surely had a hard time keeping awake.
Warm day and big meal. After meeting Elder Miller
and I took a walk to town, got a hair-cut and weighed.
161 now. Too much sweating lately. Worked on getting the
ve'a stamped tonight, and Lui and I got the Tithing
Report ready for S. Lake.
Thursday, December 28, 1939
Tere and I prepared breakfast for the gang this morning,
and then we went to meeting for five hours straight in
discussing Mission problems. We got a little tired of sitting
but none of us went to sleep. Then came dinner
and then we went to prepare for our ball game with
a Tahitian team Saturday. Juniors beat us in baseball
in seven innings after we had beaten them in the
agreed five. Tonight we listened to the "Fulness of Times"
on the recordings.
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| A mountain Stream in Fautaua |
Friday, December 29, 1939
Following breakfast we all packed in two trucks
and went up Faataua Canyon as far as we could. Then we
got out and hiked a few miles on up a "trail" to the falls.
It was rainey, muddy, but we reached there and surely saw
some pretty scenery. Returned, after a bit, to the trucks and
then went back down as far as the dam. There we swam,
played ball and ate dinner. From there to the ball park
where the big game of the year was played... the Seniors against
the Juniors in baseball. We won by the score 11-12 in a tight,
seven inning game. Then for good measure we played five
innings and won again. Back home again we ate supper,
then Pres. run his moving camera and all the rolls he has
taken, while we sat eating candy and lichee. The whole
gang is sun-burned, tired and pretty well worn out, but
we are all happy.
Saturday, December 30, 1939
This morning at breakfast table we received our new
assignments. I am assigned as Senior to Elder Haslem again
only not for a trip out. He is Mission Sec. and I am Associate
Editor to the ve'a ; we are to stay here indefinitely, tracting
on the side, holding meetings, etc. I see a busy few months
ahead of me. Later in the day a few of us went out for a
little basketball. I finaly got hitting again and rather enjoyed
the game. Listened to the Fulness of Times in the evening.
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| On a hike to the waterfall. "Farane" caught me and Elder Chugg unexpectedly. |
Sunday, December 31, 1939
And the big year closes. Very nice way to have the N.Y.
come in... still in the labor of the Lord. This morning
Elder Haslem and I visited the Catholic Church. They haven't
any spiritual feeling at all that we could feel. A nice
ceremony and all but it lacks the Authority. How they
have changed from the simplicity Christ must have taught.
During the afternoon I was busy at this and that. In
the evening a program was presented by the Branch
and the Elders. Pulled all the Elders out of bed as the N.Y.
came in; a few of we night owls did. Ia ora na.
Monday, January 1, 1940
The beginning of a New Year and the beginning of breaking resolutions; I'm already a day behind in my diary.
Today (Jan. 1) I have been filling book orders for the Elders, changing boxes.. I traded my big box to
Farane for his little one and that called for repacking. Found plenty to do to keep me busy and not try
to celebrate too much. More Fulness of Time at night and a game of checkers.
Tuesday, January 2, 1940
Elder Braegger and Chris. were to leave today for Katui but as the usual story goes, they didn't get off.
I went down to see them off. A few of us took Sister Stevens over to the ice cream factory for ice cream.
Worked on a shelf for my box. Elder Peterson had a table tennis set so we began indulging in that. "Pete"
gave me a swell run for the championship but I got over him by one game. Retired quite late as usual.
Braegger, McEntire, Price, Benson, Chugg
Miller, Christenson, Randall, Halverson (6'5") Allred, Hunting
Y. Peterson, Asay
Richards, E. Peterson, Sanford, Haslem, Nance & Young
Chapman not present. Stevens took picture.
Wednesday, January 3, 1940
Plenty busy today! Began the morning by working out a lesson outline for Pupu Toru e te Maha.
Went down to see "Tere" and "Mel" off. They left and soon after Elders Wilde & Young left for Moorea.
Returned to the house and worked on calendars for the tithe payers... letters, amounts, etc. Finished Tubuai,
Papeete, and all of Lower Tua. Began taking over the printing job of running the press. Run 300 Irava
parau sheets through by leg locomotion. Went to meeting tonight. Beat "Pete" for tennis cham. again.
21-18 for him and 21-0 for me. Changed beds to sleep with Teina tonight in the house. I granduated evidently.
Am caught up finally on diary.
Thursday, January 4, 1940
A plenty big day for me today again. I completed the letters and calendars for the tithe payers and then
walked to town to order pictures for trade purposes. This evening after working hours I ran off 1300 sheets
on the press; tried the motor on the last few. Made three errors. Earlier in the day I counted the things....
four piles of thirteen hundred and one of six hundred. Found an irava tamau aau for the
Paraimere. Recreated a little while in late evening playing table tennis and drinking lime-ades.
Friday, January 5, 1940
Back in the printing room this morning I found six hundred more sheets I missed yesterday so I printed them,
using the electric motor for a hundred or so. Worked awhile on Uela's dictionary too.
Went to town to see Lui, Farane, Eletona and Satanela off, but it's the same old story, they will leave tomorrow. We haaman'aed about two hours or more there. Work night so I had the task of keeping the Elders busy and what a task to get them started, whew!! Tired again.
Saturday, January 6, 1940
Printed a few monthly time sheets early this morning and then said "Goodbye" to the four Elders who left
for the Tuamotus. Received my pictures today and gave them all out but two. Wrote a letter to Heia ma
and mailed it today, thanking her for my bed-cover. In the afternoon Haurata and I went playing tennis. Had
two sets but he beat himself so easily I didn't have to work. Returned home, received new assignment of
chasing ships, printed again for an hour with the motor and then cleaned up. Viri, Steve and a few more of
us went to the show, "The Street Singer" tonight. Returned home at 11:-- and went to bed.
Sunday, January 7, 1940
Priesthood meeting first this morning as usual, then Iosepha Beneteau asked me to go for a ride in his taxi
out to his home. I went out to the other side of town and stayed until S.S. time. We played recordings and
I bought a string belt from him. He brought me back in time for S.S., almost; I got in just as they were
singing, "Tairuru Mai ". In Sac. meeting I closed with prayer. During the afternoon I read awhile
and then went to sleep until almost meeting time. "Feia Api " at night and then I came in and am
now ready for bed. Elders Chugg and Halverson got off for Manihi this morning.
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| The Post Office, also showing the American Counsel's home. On the waterfront road in Papeete. |
Monday, January 8, 1940
Teina and I tried our schedual during the morning and it worked all right. Then just after dinner the Limerick
came in from America. Petarona and I took the mail sack down a few hours after it landed but there was nothing
doing at the post-office. I returned to the house and printed another side of the monthly time sheets. Teina
went down again after mail but still nothing doing so we won't get it until tomorrow. This evening I began
reading two books.. the Castle Builder and Public Speaking. Haurata and I planned on tennis for early morning
and then after a couple of games, we all retired.
Tuesday, January 9, 1940
[Letter]
Haurata awakened me early this morning and we went out for a two set game; we split. After breakfast I finished
up the Monthly Sheets and began reading. Teina came a little later with the mail sack full so I helped him sort
that. I received three letters from Mother and Dad, one from Bro. Newman, one from Lucille (which was really a
letter), a card from Mother, one from Gleldon Nelson ($), letter and $ from Stake Presidency, and a book
"Return to Religion" from Mother. Of course we didn't accomplish much, any of us, the remainder of the day.
Today Ray & Pereti, Iosepha and LaVora left for their districts. I helped Uela type more on his dictionary.
In the evening we sat on the back porch eating candy, nuts and cookies, drinking limeade, eating fruit cake
and playing checkers. A little later I went to bed and read. I didn't even hear Teina come in.
Wednesday, January 10, 1940
Up again not quite so early this morning. After breakfast I used a half hour in the printing room and then had
that all caught up. I can't seem to get any work piled up on me down there but it will soon come I hope. Viri
and Petarona left today for Raroia. I went down to see them off but didn't stay there long. Finished reading the
book "Castle Builder"... pretty good book. Sorted the Elder's mail and got it ready for shipping to them today
and then did some proof reading until supper-time. Wednesday night meeting and then I began a letter to Mother
and folks.
Thursday, January 11, 1940
Haurata came in to wake me up this morning but when he got in it was 5:20 A.M. so we didn't go. Teina and I read
Tah. B. of M. from 7-8 and from 8-9 I read Deseret News and then we went visiting a few Saints. Dinner and then
a little printing and then read news until I began writing a letter (continuation). Surely have eaten lots of
candy, fruit cake and pop corn this evening. Elder Price's treat.
Friday, January 12, 1940
Today on tracting we went out to give our district a study and visited with the Taahiata girls and then on out
to Ray and Pereti's place on the shoreline. They surely have a nice place to stay.
Back home again in time for dinner and then all afternoon I worked in the office. After finishing my work I
helped Ioane a couple of hours on Genealogy work. Nothing much after we closed the books for the day. Started
letter to B.
Saturday, January 13, 1940
A stormy morning so we kept busy in the office. I printed what pages they had ready, and other odd jobs that
needed fixing. In the afternoon all of us played ball then went to Ray's place for a swim. Coming back Teina
got his racket caught in my front wheel and gave me a pitch right over the handlebars onto my hands and knees.
It broke four or five spokes out of the wheel and bent it all out of shape. I was barely skinned on the knee
and tore my trousers leg just a little other than that it a fortunate tumble and could have been worse. Stayed
in again tonight and read the newspapers. Cost of repairs 3 F. Dollars.
Sunday, January 14, 1940
Same today as every Sunday. One little difference-- I wrote a letter to Barbara, finished Mother's, and wrote
one to Hoga, sending him a pin, picture, and gave Teahu a pencil..... and ate ice cream and cake for dinner, for
afternoon and cake in the evening after meeting. Meeting was much better tonight, a good crowd out. Ioane and
I blessed the Sac. for our part of the work today.
 |
| Brother J. T. Hubbard |
 |
| Catherine |
Monday, January 15, 1940
After breakfast Teina and I began our class; today we prepared our lesson for next Sunday by reading most of
Pene 28 i III Nephi. Then I read to pages of my type so Marcel can get me going on the
press again. Then at nine Teina and I went out. We spent the entire morning in talking with Mr. Hubbard, our
little crippled friend who has been attending meetings lately. We surely had a good discusson with him on two or
three Gospel subjects; he is very interested. I loaned him a Book of Mormon and a tract saying we would be back
again. Just before dinner I went down to meet Tihoni and give him his Xmas box of candy. He was quite pleased.
After dinner I worked on printing, etc. Then this afternoon we put on our old clothes and worked out on the Church
yard grounds. Surely looking better around the place with new flowers, shrubs etc. Katherine is still badly
layed-up. Doc came to see her then came to talk to Etera. Regardless of all the bawlings out he has had lately he
got the last laugh tonight. Doc. told him to walk all he could. He surely is tickled.
Tuesday, January 16, 1940
We walked out past Roti's this morning to get to a tracting district and then we only met three households, then,
as it was almost time for dinner, we hurried back. However it gave us time to get in a little discussion, one
sided as usual, and to arrange for a Thurs. night (evening) meeting. After dinner Haurata and I ran out to the
park for a couple of hours and then came back to work again. He was informed he will be going home next week. I
read a book most of the evening and retired.
Wednesday, January 17, 1940
I began printing, working on the ve'a, this morning and ran off thirteen hundred & some sheets.
Then we held class, or vice versa, and then went visiting our investigators Mr. Hubbard and Mr. Drane. We talked
over quite a number of subjects and then I invited them up to the house to listen to the recordings, "The Fulness
of Times". They surely enjoyed it. After the meeting we served ice cream. In the afternoon I did some proof
reading and ran through the other side of the ve'a sheets I printed this morning. Attended meeting
at night with Iosepha, B. giving the Haapiiraa . Read more on "Return to Religion" and retired.
Thursday, January 18, 1940
Better perhaps if I just list the things I've done today rather than try to keep them in order. Printed thirteen
hundred sheets today + on the ve'a . Went to town for morning walk to buy a belt and found myself
looking for a camphorwood box but couldn't find a suitable one e au ai no te moni . Printed more
ve'a after dinner. Then in the afternoon I spent about an hour with Catherine. Tonight Teina and I
went out to a schedual visit and surely found a warm welcome. I surely felt good while talking to them and showing
pictures in the Picture Story of Mormoninsm book. They surely were a nice couple. We enjoyed the cool walk back
in the moonlight.
Friday, January 19, 1940
Have more or less taken it easy today. Went for an hour's visit this morning to see Ani, Branch Pres. and also
printed one plate of ve'a and did some proof reading. After dinner I began reading B.Y.'s Dis. and
got so sleepy I had to go play tennis with Elder Benson. We played to sets then some girls came in. We paired off
and had two nice sets with them. Then another girl, who works in Bata's came so Etera sat out and I played with
the three of them. Then Elder B. and I dressed and went home. This evening Haurata is packing, preparing to go
home. Of course that calls for a few yarns to be swapped & we swapped 'em.
Saturday, January 20, 1940
Today we didn't get our exercise due to the stormy atmosphere so I busied myself in the press room, finishing
130 more sheets both sides. Also I wrote a long letter to Lucille, talked awhile with Vahine rii
who just came in from Takaroa, and in the evening Uela, Teina and I talked with Pres. out here. He gave us quite
a good light on what is going to take place around here between now and his going home. I and Ray will go out
about in May together to work in a district. Meanwhile I am editor with all the ve'a turned over
to me except setting type. He surely opened up to us.
Sunday, January 21, 1940
Not a thing new today. I have attended four meetings and kept the minutes in Priesthood and Sac. In the afternoon,
I lay down to read B.Y.'s Disc. and went to sleep for two or three hours. Well, the day is gone and hasn't been a
very exciting one I must say.
Monday, January 22, 1940
Yesterday Elders Stevens and Chapman came in from the district and this morning Pereti and Re did likewise,
consequently Elder Heusser's farewell party was held. Elder Mc. and Ravorra, each having labored with him as
Juniors told their conception of him and they surely told some good ones on himn. The humorous part was the fact
that Haurata had forgotten all about such things and when the Elders brought up such stories he was really
embarrassed. (They used their diarys.) Well, the serious part came when Pres. handed Howard Heusser his honorable
release from the labors in the Tahitian Mission. It means he can go back to his loved ones at home but it also
means something just about as big; his work must come to an end down in this wonderful country. It really was
a momentous time with varied feelings among those of us who were present. The rest of the day I worked on
ve'a, etc.
Tuesday, January 23, 1940
Right in line with my new assignment, I began getting the March issue of the ve'a ready. This
morning I wrote an editorial using III Nephi 11:6-12 as my theme, also the Ward Teachers lesson obtaining my
material from the Dec. issue 1938 of Improvement Era; and the third topic was lesson outlne for month of March
for the older folks and middle aged. This along with printing about 2600 sheets and folding ve'a and
keeping busy otherwise really took up my day. We even got in some table tennis with Etera's new set.
|
| At work binding songbooks in H.Q. Teina, Me, & Ri. (Haslem, Allred, and Halverson) |
Wednesday, January 24, 1940
Up before breakfast and folding more pages; same following after everything was completed in the printing. I then
began the assembling and completed all that was printed; nearly thirteen hundred ve'as completely
assembled. The next job will be to staple then, then fold, then stamp and address. What a job! I quite enjoy the
work. More proof reading also took a little time. Wed. nite meeting tonight with Ani leading. Na'u te pure
hopea. Uela and I have been kidding each other about this and that, our days in the Leewards, Takaroa,
etc. He's not such a bad egg once a person understands him. I still admire him! Even heared more about Aroarii,
etc.
Thursday, January 25, 1940
Teina and I went to visit Jimmy and Bill today and surely spent a pleasant morning with them. They both have
just about completed their Books of Mormon and claim it to be a very interesting book. In the printing room I
ran off about two thousand Api no te Raau Ora. I'm keeping just plenty busy with the ve'a
on my hands and all. In the evening I went into the attic and worked, re-stocking my trunks with moth balls and
giving everything a good work over. I was up there until nearly eleven.
Friday, January 26, 1940
Wyatapu came in this morning so I was busy the early part of the day writing to the Stake Pres.
and to Bro. Newman and a five page letter to the Ward. After dinner Bill and Jimmy dropped in on us and we spent
an enjoyable two hours together listening to the records and talking Gospel. I then printed more, began stapling
the ve'a and folding. Uela then took over the stapling then Teina began stamping and later on Ioane
helped by folding. The result is the ve'a is all stapled, all folded, all stamped, and now I just
have to address it and mail it. I feel like a big day has been put in.
|
| Marva |
Saturday, January 27, 1940
I prepared breakfast this morning and after eating we sat at the table talking with Pres. He told us quite a number
of stories about himself; swiping water-melons and getting caught; the farmer taking him and friends over and
offered them ripe ones but not for them to pick green ones. (Marva piped up with, "I've heard this story before.)
After eating and talking I began addressing the ve'a, worked until dinner then went down to see
Haurata i to'na revaraa'tu i to'na iho fenua. Re, Ioane, and I obtained a pass so that we could go
aboard ship, or even get in the pal uahu. The rest couldn't even get close due to close restrictions;
we were allowed on board two minutes. We saw him off, however. Returning to the house I worked on addressing until
theater time then we all went to see "The Great Ziegfield". They put one over as usual... only played half of it
and the rest to be shown tomorrow night. What a joint! We retired about 11:.
|
Sunday, January 28, 1940
The first thing I knew this morning was Pres. standing in the door-way laughing at us. It was 7:00 A.M. and we
were still in. Well, Teina & I soon got up. I didn't have any work today but the passing of Sac. Enjoyed the
meetings. In the afternoon I read funny papers until a party started next door and then we watched some very
pretty hula dancing for a couple of hours. Some fun that. Meeting tonight, a short talk with Jimmy and ice cream
and lemon pie and now prayer and to bed I go.
Monday, January 29, 1940
Put in all morning and after so many hours, the vea was in the post-office all finished; surely glad to get that
off. Began on my Ready References to the Book of Mormon in Tahitian; completed the references on Gospel. In the
cool of the evening Elder Stevens & I took a walk down town, into Chinese stores and out, and then way out to
the District to Ray's & Pereti's place for an hour. On returning to the house we were just in time to watch
Pres.'s picture show and eat ice cream and cake. I heared from Iosepha and Teina that things were happening pretty
startling from now on. Even I may be affected by the short season...October, maybe....
Tuesday, January 30, 1940
Proof reading first thing this morning and at 9:00 Teina and I went out. We (or I) arranged for a cottage meeting
at Nina's for Thurs. night, weather permitting. We were a little late getting back but we didn't mind. Afternoon
put me back at the desk and at the press. Finished Faith in my Ready Ref. Was going to have the girls over to-night
to work but it has been raining all evening. April Ve'a ready to print (or be set up in type.) We will
get it off on time, perhaps.
Wednesday, January 31, 1940
Month of July (Jan.) ending and with it a happy surprise. We have been visiting our "white man" friends off and on
all month, teaching, talking over news, and telling of our Church. Today in our visits with Mr. Hubbard he asked to
be baptized. He is a man about 60 some odd years old and crippled (He has been that way most of his life.) There
are just a few more things we wish to talk to him about and then he is ready for baptism. We are very happy about
it too. In the morning I worked in the office, saw Pres. & Iosepha off to Moorea, and rode out to Pereti and
Ray's for a little while. After dinner Teina and I played tennis for an hour or so and then returned back to work.
After a haapiiraa tonight I had a few of the girls in for an hours work and then asked them to go home
at 9:00 P.M.
Thursday, February 1, 1940
Didn't do very much this morning but office work and play through the two picture shows we have lined up; one for
tonight and one for Saturday. After dinner Elder Haslem and I once again went for a set of tennis. Returning, I
read first sheet proofs to the March Ve'a. This evening we played "King of Kings". I read the script and
Teina worked the machine. And to top the day off we saw the end of "Great Ziegfeld".
Friday, February 2, 1940
The entire day has been spent around the office and a walk to see Mr. Spitzs. I worked out five lesson outlines
for the Pupu Piti e te maha and have but two left. In the evening the Doc. came to see Katherine's
leg. Iosepha and I went in to see it rebandaged. Well, that's the first time that looking at a cut or sore has
affected me to the extent of a sweat and turned over stomach. I lasted it out though and then excused myself and
went back to work. Before going to bed I printed 1250 sheets of vea and then turned them over and printed the
back-side. Was a bit sleepy when I retired.
Saturday, February 3, 1940
Usual work around the office all morning and in the afternoon Teina and I went to the Parc for tennis, etc.
Returned home, prepared for a meeting and when the time came we went down to Mr. Hubbards. Teina did the talking
tonight and I worked the films. While we were there, holding a humble, little meeting, a party began next door
with singing, dancing, laughing... I couldn't help but contrast the two. I surely am glad I'm on this side and not
the other.
Sunday, February 4, 1940
I gave the Haapiiraa in Priesthood meeting today for the first time in Papeete. The only thing
wrong was it was too short. I just couldn't find enough on Elizabeth to talk an hour. The rest of the day was for
meetings, sleep, and Elder Stevens and I went for a walk to the park, sat on a bench and watched all the pretty
girls go by. Puni & his wife came by and took us to the ice cream factory and treated us to two cones and
some cake. After Feia Api he and I went to a Chinaman's home for a little funeral service put on by
the Branch. It was good but we left a few minutes before it was over and came home to bed.
Monday, February 5, 1940
A wet day today, all day, so I was busy at office work getting a lesson outline prepared for the ve'a. In
the evening Teina and I went out to Nina ma house and played three reels of films. The people
gathered there quite enjoyed it but I surely found my Tahitian language rusty. Really, inactivity with this
tongue surely makes it difficult to get going. We went out with rain looking as though it would fall anytime
and came back with it the same but didn't have to use our umbrellas. I got well along with the printing of the
March issue of ve'a today.
Tuesday, February 6, 1940
Still it rains and so much so that we didn't get out today. Consequently I printed and studied and then when I got
caught up with March I began reading "Hurricane" and finished it before going to bed. Surely interesting and made
me feel right at home. "Mon Cherie" and Aroarii came tonight to assist me in folding veas so I set them to work.
Surely a nice, diligent couple of girls.
Wednesday, February 7, 1940
Quite a coincidence I must say! The first thing I heared this morning after getting downstairs before breakfast was
a hurricane had struck Raiatea early this morning. Pres. had been down to market and the news was spreading; they
(in R.) had wired over stating the same. To what extent of damage was done I don't know. We ourselves have been
in the stormiest weath I have yet seen so steady. I've been working in the office all day and in the evening
between rainstorms a meeting was held; I took charge of it tonight and Iosepha gave the lesson. Afterwards,
feeling adventurous and wanting some excitement to come to our land, we (LaVora, Iosepha, Horate, Viiamu and I)
went to the show. I surely enjoyed it. We surely laughed most of the way through.
Thursday, February 8, 1940
Another bad stormy day with a very queer glow in the sky. If I were on a Tuamotu I may feel a little uneasy but
being on these mountains, I don't mind at all. Teina and I braved the rain today to visit Mr. Hubbard. Arrangements
were herewith drawn for his baptism next Sunday. Our visit was well repaid. Today I completed the printing of the
March Ve'a and for the fiirst time in quite a long time it will be ready to mail on time... thanks
to the Government. Began reading Pitcairn's Island today; spent most of the evening in reading.
Friday, February 9, 1940
Before anything else was done this morning I began the new assignment given me last night by Pres. Stevens,
vis... catching up the Mission Diary from last Nov. to now. I finished that just an hour after dinner, having
been writing most of the morning. Then I read and completed P.I. and got a good start on Mutiny on the Bounty...
these books of down here rather have a tendency to interest me. Turned down an invitation to go see Doris and
Irene tonight and stayed home to fold vea sheets. Regardless of the rain three of the girls came to assist me.
Saturday, February 10, 1940
[Letter home]
Finally the storm has broken and today was very pretty.. just like spring. This morning Uela and I went to DuPont
and had our passport pictures taken today. Then I returned to the house and took the job of cleaning out the
magazine cupboard, throwing away a few hundred Liahonas, Milenial Star, and odds & ends. Now the cupboard
looks as though it had been depleted but it's clean. In the afternoon Elder Stevens and I went playing tennis.
I began teaching him how. After two sets with him, I engaged a Frenchman and expected to get my ears knocked down
but to my surprise and his I won by 6-2. After a little basket shooting with Iosepha we returned home. This evening
Teina and I held a little meeting with the old gentlemen and a few native friends. We had an interesting two hours
with them.
Sunday, February 11, 1940
Mr. James Tyler Hubbard, 68, entered into the Church today. Elder Haslem and I took charge of arrangements.
Following S.S. we all went out to the creek by Benny Perry's home, and regardless of the high water and muddy
contents he and I entered into the stream. He is crippled, able, however, to walk and stands only about five
feet tall. The rough stones and swirling water made it a bit hard for him but in we went. I carried him out to
save his having to walk over the rocks again. On request of Elder Haslem, after I had given him choice of
baptizing or confirming, I baptized and he confirmed him. It was a happy day all right. Sister Stevens asked
him over to dinner and so they entertained him in the afternoon. Regular meetings went on as usual, and after
a bit of jolly fooling around at night we went to sleep.
|
Monday, February 12, 1940
Passport pictures were in order today and as I have an extra I put it here to see how I look now when I look back
fifty years. Elder Hunting and I went to the station, were finger-printed and went on record. Most of the day I
was busy at the vea, assembling and stapling and this evening Elder Richards, Teina and I went to obtain Mr.
Hubbards genealogy. Elder Richards talked to Bro. H., & Teina and I talked to Mr. Drain.
Tuesday, February 13, 1940
Assembling the ve'a today kept me busy along with stapling until time to go tracting. We then went
out to our friends' home and left a Book of Mormon and talked for a little while. They are coming to Church so
they say, one of these first Sundays.. We left there about 11:00 and it took us until about dinner time to get
back. After dinner I finished my book Mutiny on the Bounty and then continued vea work. In the evening the Doc.
& his wife, a few natives, and friends of Bro. & Sister Stevens came to see a few of Pres.'s reels. We
also played through King of Kings and the record on settling of Utah. Three of the girls came so I had them finish
the assembling of the ve'a ; they did and a quick job too.
Wednesday, February 14, 1940
Between Uela and me we finished the stapling of the ve'a and I did all the folding besides printing
two thousand tracts. Teina and I went for a visit to Ani's home in the morning; I also bought a new hat (8 F).
All afternoon I worked in the office and went to meeting at night. After meeting Ioane & I went for a walk
to the wharf. Imagine our surprise to see the big ship in! That means mail for us tomorrow. A couple of girls
hmm'd at us but we didn't pay any attention until they were past and then I looked but, right in their eyes. I
felt so cheap, as I whirled my head front I hmmm'd to myself out-loud. They heared it and got quite a chuckle;
we hurried on. It's time for prayer now so I guess we'll go up.
Thursday, February 15, 1940
We weren't able to get mail this morning until just about dinner time but I didn't mind the delay because it gave
me sufficient time, with the help of Simone, Teipo and Aroarii to address the ve'a and stamp it until
I ran out of stamps. After dinner I went on reading until I had finished my letters and then I worked until the
ve'a was ready for the mail... four days ahead of time! My letters today consisted of a good family
letter and news of Una & Hap's accident, Bishop's release, which is still a puzzle to me, and letters from
Verba, Fern, and Una; not a note from Barbara as usual but I received a Bible Story book. Very nice for Primary
lessons but I'm not around where I have to teach Primary anymore, but it's still a nice book. Today I have put in
all of nine hours work on ve'a and feel ready for bed now.
|
Friday, February 16, 1940
I've just moseyed around today, accomplishing but a very little. I printed 2000 more tracts and did a little proof
reading this morning. In the afternoon I got a little thrill by receiving what looked like a telegram and I
couldn't imagine what it could be. It was written in French and when I finally got it translated it turned out to
be a money order. Bro. Newman had wired me two dollars but expenses taken out it came to $1.68. I also received a
censored letter with two dollars in from the 287 Quorum of Seventies. Thanks to them! That about completed the day
what with the girls coming at night.
Saturday, February 17, 1940
Another day passed and I spent most of it in reading Deseret News. This morning Teina and I went out long enough
to get a picture meeting for tonight and now that is over so I guess I'll retire. Surely hasn't been much of a
day but it'll pass.
Sunday, February 18, 1940
With four regular meetings and one at the riverside for Marama's baptism, plus our usual Sunday activities with
a stroll through town and to the park this day has been happily passed. This evening after meeting Iosepha (Steve)
and I went for a walk to look over an American yacht that had landed this evening. There were about 12 young
fellows on her and in their first walk after stepping on shore they headed straight for Quinns. Well, they're
welcome to it if that's what they're after.
Monday, February 19, 1940
No sooner had the day got a good start than Pereti raua o Rei came in from the district. Soon
after Uela and I went over to the apartment house for an administration to a little, sick girl. Following that
I spent the rest of the morning with Elder Mc lookng at camphor wood boxes. We surely thought we had found a
couple of good ones until after dinner then we took Pres. down and he showed us a few defects that changed our
minds. Undaunted we continued our search and spent most of the early afternoon still seeking but still we
haven't made a decision. Returning to the house we met Elders Miller and Peterson who had just returned from
Ruiroa. Also talked with Bro. Hubbard and then after he left we ate supper. While we were eating Pres. walked
in and asked me and Viri to go see a prospect tonight. We spent about two hours with Tohitia and he surely
wants to become a member but he is leaving tomorrow for Makatea. If ever missionaries go there he will be
baptized. We returned to the house and after eating ice cream and cake I am ready to retire; everyone else has.
Uela & Ioane's party tonight.
Tuesday, February 20, 1940
Each day is about alike. Today I worked printing the last pages of Irava Parau, folded them and put
them away. Tohitia came over this morning to tell us "goodbye" as he is leaving for Makatea soon. Then at one
Viri and I went down to see him and family off. They were very pleased that we should do that. The rest of the
day didn't amount to much.
Wednesday, February 21, 1940
Viri almost overslept this morning when it was his turn to get breakfast but due to pretty good speed for a
Pukaura from te mau raau (sticks) he had it prepared on almost time. Teina and I went
walking and met Bro. Hubbard, and I talked all morning on the Godhead to him. When we left I'm sure he had a
better conception of what God is like. Rei & Petarona left today for Raraka; I rented his bike at 5,0 f
a month. I completed folding the tract pile. Pereti and I were going to play tennis but the storm that looked
like it was coming kept us back. Meeting tonight with Marcel taking the haapiiraa. A game of checkers and
the day is over. I feel a little tough these days but I really don't notice it. Maybe a little flu..?? just a
stiff neck, cold, and canker. But I'm O.K.
Thursday, February 22, 1940
One more stormy day but I didn't mind. I printed 2,000 oro'a sheets in the morning and did a few
odd jobs around. Viri and Pereti left for their district. Sister Stevens cooked dinner today and surely did
swell. I ate as though my appetite had returned; Roti was ill. We four Elders cleaned up the dishes afterwards.
Then Teina and I went out for two sets of tennis and then after I got back I assembled me an
irava parau book so that I can check the remainder of the answers. I heared Viri & Elder
Chapman would have the binding to do so we're trying to rush things through. This evening I wrote a letter to
Verba ma , and then at 11:00 retired.
Friday, February 23, 1940
30 more sheets of irava parau first thing this morning and then I worked on vea subs. getting them
filed in order. For recreation I took a ride out the western point on a bicycle for an hour. On returning home I
read through some old eras before going back to work. Worked further on new ve'a subs. until
bedtime. Today the Gov. sent back our ve'a. They refused to print my article on tithing and from now on
we are not allowed to collect or preach the law. It appears that plate passing must be stopped in the other
Churches. Aue Fanani e !
Saturday, February 24, 1940
After my work was completed this morning such as proof reading, printing and stapling Oro'a sheets
I assisted Ioane ma on Genealogy work. In the afternoon I rested for a couple of hours, in which
Pres. caught me with my mouth wide open, and then I wrote a letter to Vern & Fern. Teina and I visited the
little old men and there I took them through the phylosophy of Life for an hour. Returned home, exercised,
showered, and am now ready to turn in.
Sunday, February 25, 1940
First thing this morning I began wondering what I would say in the speech I felt sure to get. But in Priesthood
meeting Ani skipped over me so as yet I haven't one. He didn't assign me anything to do so I was going to relax.
However when I entered the Church house, sat down by Bro. Hubbard, Ani asked me to offer opening prayer, e ua
na reira vau e i reira i to'u iteraa e, aita e taata ia haapao i te opereraa o te oro'a ua haere au i raro e ua
tauturu vau ia Huri nainai i te opereraa. After dinner I wrote letters... one to
Mother
ma, Vern ma, and finished Verba's. Sent a few pictures of our trip to fautaua home and a big one
of me to Verb ma. This evening after meeting Ani asked me to go to an administration with him out to
Nina's. Mere's little boy was ill. Ua na reira vau e na'u i faatahinu ia'na e na Ani te haamauraa. Tirara
ia parau i teie nei po.
Monday, February 26, 1940
I folded irava parau questions for awhile this morning and then helped for a little while on
genealogy work with the regular duties of the office. Teina and I went to visit Mere to learn of the effects of
the administration last evening. The kid was much better; Mere very pleased told us he had gone to sleep right
after Ani & I left. His fever was gone too. Returned by way of Ani's to tell him. I haven't mentioned it
before in my diary but there is a case of "worna-fever" struck this city. Over thirty deaths were reported this
last week alone. This afternoon Ani called for me again to go with him to another administration. We went out
along Fautaua road aways and then dropped off into a house. As we entered I saw the most emanciated man I have
seen in months. Thin as a tooth-pick, weak, but he had something about him that seemed familiar to me. I had no
sooner heared his voice and I began trying to place him... then it came to me. Garu of Takaroa! You could have
blown me over. What a different picture now than the husky, energetic, clever fellow I knew in Takaroa. Sickness
had him sure. If ever I put all I had in an administration it was there. This surprised me more than anything
yet. In the evening Ioane & I began on a new idea. "Dear Elders" monthly, submitted and edited by the Office
Farce.
Tuesday, February 27, 1940
Once again Teina and I went visiting Mere ma and learned the child was well and happy. Visited Garu
also but he wasn't anywhere around. Played a little tennis before dinner. During the afternoon Tauapiti came
after me to go to an administration of his child. Ani happened to be here at the time so all went over. (I
haven't felt so good myself today.) But later in the afternoon I printed more irava parau sheets..
3 more printings to go. In the evening I wrote a short 2 pg. letter to Miss Farr and got a good start on one to
Una.
Wednesday, February 28, 1940
Elder Haslem and I visited Tauapiti's kid this morning and found him well and around. I see more and more just
what power the Priesthood has. From there we went to Garu's and spent a pleasant hour with him. He isn't much
better. Spent another hour before dinner in exercise. Office work and making four copies of Elders (Dear)
letter, evening meeting, and writing a letter to Naomi, finishing Una's, and writing one to Rema and Edith.
Retired at 11:00.
Thursday, February 29, 1940
During breakfast this morning I learned the big Swedish ship was just out of the lagoon. We rushed breakfast a
little so we could go see it come in. Elder Haslem and I rode out to a point near the pass and there she was
about coming through. Say, it is a beauty. The largest ship I have ever seen. Carrying something like 350
passengers, weight of about 22,000,000 tons, painted a pretty white, name Sverige Kungsholm. She surely looked
beautiful on the lagoon, coasting up to the wharf. Teina and I pedaled back and were at the wharf as she was
about to dock. A few incidents that made her coming worthwhile are: we all received two or three unexpected
letters (Mother & Dad and Eldon.), it was a sight I have never seen before, I & Teina were standing close by
when one of her five inch tying-up ropes snapped.. sounded like a cannon shot, and as she was pulling out a
sailor jumped from the high deck into the lagoon and tried to swim ashore, was picked up by Potii's pufa boat
and crew and returned to ship. The day was badly broken into but well worth it. The remainder of the day I
worked among the dead and on my own work in printing department. Was glad to receive mail. Elden surely writes
interesting letters. Glad 18th won first half race. It's got me a little puzzled about Barbara's
letters but I'm not worried. We have our "Dear Elders" all published and ready to send.
Friday, March 1, 1940
Today found me knee-deep in genealogy file cards today and among the four of us, we turned out 280 sheets all
ready to be sent to Salt Lake. Also I proof read and printed the last sheets of Mau Irava Parau, the
biggest publication turned out under Pres. Stevens. Now we are ready for binding. Have been around all day doing
this and that.
Saturday, March 2, 1940
Right after breakfast Viri and Pereti came in from the district and not long afterwards, Iosepha and Lavora
came. Once again our peace and tranquility was broken by quite a number being around. Both Iosepha and Pereti
have been packing; they will be leaving for home next week. I made two trips to town today with Iosepha and the
rest of the time I read a few of the latest Deseret News.... the latest being Feb. 2, 1940. Just two years ago
today I received my call! How time passes!
Sunday, March 3, 1940
Rather enjoyed Fast meeting today. About eight different ones spoke including Pereti and Iosepha for their last
time. After a big dinner Iosepha and I took our customary walk to town, looking 'em over. Just after S.S. we all
went out to the baptism of Marcel's kid. Iosepha did the baptizing. Yvonne led a swell haapiiraa
tonight to close a good day.
Monday, March 4, 1940
Immediately after breakfast Elder's Stevens & Asay "farewell" was held. I talked about fifteen minutes
digging up all the dirt I could on Pereti. We were there for two hours and it surely was interesting. Following
meeting I began taking inventory on all the books in the cupboard... it took me until dinner and then some. Then
Iosepha and I again went to town. This time I bought three little "hula" skirts, with the three little girls in
mind. Later I bought a table cover for Fern, I think. That is who I have in mind. I worked out an article for
the ward teachers message for next month and now I am ready for bed.
Tuesday, March 5, 1940
I was awakened this morning by Ani calling me from downstairs. He had brought over the table cover I purchased
yesterday. I didn't see him but Teina brought the cover up. Quite nice. Following breakfast I translated a few
more verses of my Doc. & Cov. Sec. 88, then I did more proof reading as we have started on the
ve'a for next month. This evening I printed the one side of first page - 1300. The day was quite
long and I surely was restless. Viri and Lavora returned to the district and Iosepha & Pereti are still
packing. Uela and Ioane are leaving for Moorea tomorrow and of course have been chasing around.
Wednesday, March 6, 1940
Began printing this morning before breakfast and continued it after. When I was finished there Teina & I
went visiting again for a couple of hours. Following dinner Pereti and I went out and I taught him a few
fundimentals of tennis. Back home again for proof reading, entertaining Jimmy and Bill and then this evening
meeting, then a shower and a little laundry washed, and after writing a two page both sides letter to Mother
ma, I am retiring... after this is finished.
|
Thursday, March 7, 1940
Elders Asay and Stevens began helping today on assembling the new Irava Parau and we got a good
start on it. I spent most of my time, however, printing the April ve'a .. ran off 3300 sheets today.
If I keep on I will turn it out on time again. Today Doris cancelled the date we made but she made us promise to
come down Monday night. She & Irene are having a party tomorrow night for a few friends who are leaving on
the next ship. Well, work constituted most of the day but Iosepha and I walked to town again anyway. I bought me
a new Gillette razor for a change.
Friday, March 8, 1940
Back to work again. We spent most of the day in assembling and I folded 1300 sheets of vea too. Didn't even find
time to go to town. Enjoy working once again with Pereti & Iosepha and it seems we got quite a lot
accomplish... 299 Irava Parau books completely assembled;. over 300 pages each. Worked a little
more on my Sec. 88-. (Good joke - the man and the ham sandwich.. piti 1 bite, uiti. 2
bites, whoops.
Saturday, March 9, 1940
Worked at the usual things during the entire morning and then after dinner we four went out to Parc des
Sports for a little doubles tennis. Pereti and I beat Teina and Iosepha for the ice cold haaris.
The evening was spent around home.
Sunday, March 10, 1940
Monday, March 11, 1940
Tuesday, March 12, 1940
Wednesday, March 13, 1940
Thursday, March 14, 1940
Friday, March 15, 1940
Saturday, March 16, 1940
Sunday, March 17, 1940
Monday, March 18, 1940
To be continued...
Summary: Ua Tae Mae
Rutena in Tahiti | Takaroa | Niau | Hikueru | Tahaa and Raiatea | Huahine | Anaa | Marokau | Hikueru again | Papeete