EUROPE: GREECE. 157 



made. The processes and methods of manufacture are modern, and 

 the production is likely to increase. There are no pulp mills in 

 Greece. 



The fuel used by these factories is either coal or coke, both of 

 which are imported. The prices, on the docks at Piraeus, are as 

 follows: Coal (mostly Cardiff), 40 drachmas (about $5.30) per ton of 

 2,240 pounds; coke, nearly twice that amount per ton all payable 

 three months after delivery. Charcoal, local and Turkish, and not 

 of the best qualities, sells at the same place for about 125 drachmas 

 (about $15. 60) per 100 okes (284 pounds). 



IMPORTS, BANKING, STEAMSHIP LINES, ETC. 



The classes and kinds of paper imported into Greece are shown 

 by the foregoing table, as are also the countries from which paper 

 is imported; but the amounts from the several countries could not 

 be learned. 



The banking facilities are considered very good. Greece has a 

 number of reliable banks that have financial connections with all of 

 the leading countries of the world. Although Greece belongs to the 

 International Postal Union, its mail facilities are not very regular or 

 reliable; but the Government promises a reform in that direction at 

 no distant day. Neither is its telegraph service of the best. It is 

 connected with the outside world by cable. 



There are several regular lines of steamships between Piraeus and 

 different European cities, and in from fifteen to forty days from the 

 date an order is sent to such ports the goods may be expected; but 

 there is often more or less needless delay. There are no express 

 lines. Small packages may be sent by "parcel post" in less time 

 than by freight. 



OUTLOOK FOR AMERICAN TRADE. 



German and Belgian firms have established depots for their im- 

 ports in Athens, in which samples are exhibited, and which assist in 

 building up their trade very materially. To promote trade here, 

 the United States, through some of its export associations, should 

 adopt a similar plan. There certainly is an opening for American 

 paper and pulp in Greece, but there is little use in trying to intro- 

 duce our products through local firms. Live Americans should be 

 sent here with samples of our best products and kept on the ground 

 until the trade has been secured. Let the right men be sent with 

 power to act, and there will be little doubt of the United States 

 securing a large share of Grecian trade. 



There are a number of local establishments which are anxious to 

 deal with American firms in the paper trade, provided they be given 

 suitable terms. Some of these firms are no doubt reliable; but my 



