CURING AND PREPARATION OF RUBBER 97 



delivers, less a deduction for waste pending shipment. 

 This deduction varies in different districts and accord- 

 ing to the period of the tapping season, the average 

 allowance being 10 per cent, for the first four months, 

 and 15 per cent, during the last three. Of the total 

 quantity, one-half is credited to the collector at the 

 market value in Manaos or Para, less a further deduction 

 of 10 per cent, to cover cost of freight commissions and 

 incidental expenses up to date of sale. Practically the 

 outcome is that the collector receives one-half of the 

 total amount less a deduction of 25 per cent. 



It is abundantly evident from the facts given in con- 

 nection with tapping, the yield of rubber-trees, and the 

 cost of living, that the question of the remuneration of 

 labour on the rubber-producing properties needs a 

 thorough readjustment. If the relationship between 

 owners and collectors is to continue on the co-partner- 

 ship basis prevailing at present, the percentage to the 

 latter must be increased to a substantial extent, and 

 the deductions for loss in weight and expenses sensibly 

 diminished. In view of the rapid rise in Eastern pro- 

 duction, it is necessary to look for lower prices than 

 have been reached hitherto, and for this reason all 

 calculations should be made at a value not exceeding 

 two shillings and sixpence per pound for fine hard Para 

 rubber. To enable the seringueiro to earn a living wage, 

 his share must be increased to at least 75 per cent, of 

 the total amount he delivers, and any deductions made 

 should be for actual, not possible, loss of weight and 

 general charges. Unless most drastic innovations in 

 this direction are introduced in the immediate future, 

 the rubber industry in the Amazon Valley will dwindle 

 7 



