NATIVE MEETING.

Globe, Volume XXI, Issue 1685, 15 July 1879, Page 3

NATIVE MEETING.

CAMBRIDGE, July 14. At Saturday’s Native meeting, after the petition was distributed, Mr Robert Graham tried to obtain a hearing, amid clamour and interruptions. Several Natives tried in vain to get him a hearing. Roti said—The meeting was called by Graham and his Maori friend. But, through drink there is disturbance. Let ua adjourn.” Tho meeting then closed. After an hour’s delay tho meeting re-commecced, with a guard at tho door to prevent disturbers entering. Tua Tamihana then read tho petition, and discussion followed. The meeting was then adjourned till to-night. Mr Robert Graham is regarded as the promoter of tho petition. He professes to bo trying to allay tho extreme discontent pervading the Native mind; but there are other causes of dissatisfaction here than the present form of Government. Tho Natives from Wellington and all parts of the colony are claiming a share in tho lands. Many are unable to sustain their lawful claims. Hence the discontent. The Land Act is regarded as oppressive. At Saturday’s meeting Ransfiold (a half-caste of Otake) said Ministers, but lot not the Government be allowed to pay the salary of our Minister, or he will bo a Government employe.” Kepa Mutu, an old Haubau chief, observed that if they were not satisfied with the present Government, why did they not go over to Tawhiao at once. Then all would be well.