278 
or any others that may be forthcoming prove entirely sobbed 
and ribbons can be produced at a low initial cost, the question of 
their conversion into filasse is one which will naturally come into 
prominence. The conversion of ribbons into filasse Nd very probably. 
at first at least, take place in Europe, where chem cals and skilled 
the more i ilable. In some c i 
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spot (to save freight charges on the ribbons), and ship only the filasse 
to Europe. In any case once a Ramie industry is well started, there 
can be no doubt numerous countries will seek a share in it, and E 
those arsi special advantages for the growth of th plan 
supply of cheap — and good facilities for transport and Pesca 
can hope to make it a succ 
The best market E Ramie at present appears to be France. What 
little is Suported into this country, in the form of China grass or Rhea 
is bo ogh up for the French market. In the ewi Circular of 
14s. to 10s. per cwt. 
a 
half-cleaned stuff. The price is much less than China grass, and in 
case of large shipments would probably not exceed about 77. or 8l. per 
It is important therefore for Ramie planters to aim at the produc- 
tion of ribbons at a cost not exceeding about 4/. or 5/. at the port of 
shipment. Important elements in such production would be to plant 
Ramie only in places where the soil and climate will allow of three or 
four erops to be reaped per annum ; where labour is very cheap and 
abundant, and where good facilities exist for transport and shipment. 
D. Morris. 
