The Gisborne Times PUBLISHED EVERY MORNING. GISBORNE, MAY 27, 1903.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 901, 27 May 1903, Page 2

The Gisborne Times PUBLISHED EVERY MORNING. GISBORNE, MAY 27, 1903.

A PEACEFUL CAPTURE. The visil. of (lie Premier and the lion. J. Carroll to the North has hecn fruitful beyond the expectations of lho.se who have not been paying close attention to Idle question. On a well-known previous occasion, the astute Mahuta held aloof from celebrations in which the other natives joined with great enthusiasm. While olliers danced with joy at the presence of the Duke and Duchess, i\lahula consoled himself in sullen silence. Months ago the 'times intliealed that it. was the intention oT the Government to confer on Mahuta the appointment which was confirmed in fact a few days ago. The position carries with it an allowance of Ainu a year, so Unit if Mahuta does not have much commanding induenee in his new role, he wilt at least have a tidv sum for pocket money, and his trusty admirers will no doubt get some crumbs of comfort in that direction. But it must not he supposed that a mere monetary solace would be sufficient to convince Mahuta. Mr Carroll paved the way to a good understanding, and then the Premier arrived on the scene for the climax', also putting in some finishing touches. The result is undoubtedly a fine stroke of policy. We may have been inclined to laugh at Manilla's claim t.o kingship, but there is no denying that he possesses considerable influence with what may be termed the section of natives farthest removed from civilising influences, and tlie securing of his allegiance and support is a subject upon which the Premier and Mr Carroll may well he heartily congratulated. The position which Mahuta now holds was held by Mr Carroll before the latter's appointment to full Cabinet rank.