Women carry upon their heads loads that would stagger the average man. They are able to balance almost anything, and one sees them carrying boxes, barrels, and even pianos, although the latter require about four women to balance their weight. Agriculturally, St. Croix offers a good field for development. Cotton as well as sugar can be grown profitably, and, with modern American methods, its products can be materially increased. [Illustration: ON A SUNNY ROAD, ST. CROIX] _System of Education_ When the Americans first took possession there was much confusion. Danish law conflicted with American law, Danish customs differed from American customs, there was a Danish postmaster and an American postmaster; but these things are now straightened out and order has been completely restored. The Danish method of instruction, which has long been in use, has been continued by the United States. The system differs from our own in that the schools are in session practically the year round, and religious training is required. The religious training in the schools will be discontinued, but otherwise the Danish method will obtain. Virgin Islanders pride themselves on their low percentage of illiteracy. Only about two per cent. of the inhabitants are unable to read and write. [Illustration: LONGSHOREWOMEN COALING A SHIP St. Thomas Harbor] _The Importance of St. Thomas_ Commercially, the island of St. Thomas is destined to play the most important part of all the group, as it is a favored way-station on the route from European ports to the Panama Canal. Its lost trade can be regained, and it may be possible for American manufacturers to display samples of their wares in especially built ware-rooms at Charlotte Amalie. This would enable the merchants of Central and South America to make their purchases again as they once did. It would obviate the necessity of a long journey to New York, and the port of St. Thomas would be a convenient place in which to see American-made goods and place orders. [Illustration: THE FORT ON THE HILL ABOVE CHARLOTTE AMALIE Now an American jail]