I2t 



rosin as is usual. Opinions differ as to the formulae to 

 be used, as some planters prefer alkaline soaps while the 

 scientists desire it neutral : there is at present much to 

 learn in the matter since soaps must probably differ con- 

 siderably according to the insect to be destroyed, its 

 stage of life, the time of year, the character of the crop 

 (coffee, tea, etc.), the rapidity of action required, and even 

 the elevation of the estate ; the chemist has made a 

 number of enquiries on various estates. 



Up to date about i8 tons of soaps have been made 

 and issued and a very useful profit obtained ; the 

 demands for next season are likely to be far greater, and 

 with fish-oil and stearine cheaper we can give even 

 better terms or take larger profit. 



The military authorities have not yet reported on the 

 soap supplied to thern. Should this be equally suc- 

 cessful there will be an excellent outlet for fish-oil and 

 stearine on the coast. 



44. Plant was locally obtained for making these 

 soaps and is now available for considerable experimental 

 work. Advantage was taken of the technological 

 knowledge and skill of the chemist and of the results of 

 analysis when examining the soaps generally used by 

 planters and for harness and leather, to experiment in 

 ordinary soaps, and the expert succeeded, even with 

 small handstirred plant, in making high quality genuine 

 soaps which have been tested with excellent results for 

 some months. Sanction was given by Government in 

 March 1915 for further experimental work. 



