great value and importance; and the natives are most hospitable and kind in their manner. I was more amused than annoyed, as a stranger would be, at our slow movements in starting. There was so much talk, adjusting, going ashore for paddles, and things forgotten; all ordering, and none acting; that before we moved from the bank, a full half hour was spent; and almost always in these large canoes, this is the case, with natives, before they start. Then they go on slowly; then more rapidly; then to a race full speed. Then, almost suddenly, to a full stop of another half, or three quarters of an hour, before they move. Thus the day is spent in alternate intervals of idleness, landing and eating at each other's villages, and going at railway speed, when urged by any sudden impulse to do so. We are not more than 5 miles from where we started in the morning, and it is now 4 p.m. Paraj Kohare's eldest son is evidently a man of great importance, and a large claimant on the Wairarapa; who will no doubt be able to unite the claimants of his district, to sell, and act with him, as ''Rauna tangaha tahi.'' Heavy rain during the night, and the forenoon. Confined to tent the greater part of the day. Went to hear a native sermon at the next village, which was preached by Paul, a teacher at this place, from Corinth. 14. 24. ''Only one that runneth shall gain the prize.'' Left at 9 a.m. for Te Reinga, accompanied by Te Koari and Te Ropiha. The land