The Wellington Post in a recent issue has an able leading article upon the present unsatisfactory position of af fairs at Samoa. Our contemporary Bays:

"Chief Justice Chambers' judgment summarises concisely and clearly the issues connected with the Samoan kingship, and, as the question has now assumed international propor tions, it is well to place its main points before our readers. Malietoa Laupepa, late King of Samoa, died on August 22 last, and, according to the Berlin Treaty of 1889, under which Malietoa held his kingship, the signatory Powers—Germany, the United States and Great Britain recognised 'the free right of the na tives to elect their chief or king.' It was, however, expressly stipulated that Malietoa, who ascended the na tive throne in 1881, should be re-in stated in the office of king without an election, but that 'his successor should be duly elected according to the laws and customs of Samoa.' Anticipating difficulties in connection with such election, the Treaty plenipotentiaries provided that in case of dispute about the election or appointment of king, the Chief Justice of the Samoan Supreme Court should decide between the claimants 'conformably to the pro visions of this Act (the Berlin Treaty) and to the laws and customs of Samoa not in conflict therewith.' The signa tory Powers further agreed to accept and abide by the Chief Justice's de cision.
