NATIVE AFFAIRS.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1856, 4 February 1880, Page 3

NATIVE AFFAIRS.

[Br TblißGbaphJ fBBOK OTJB OWN COBBBSPONDENT.] WELLINGTON, February 8. There is no news of importance to-day from Waimate Plains beyond a complaint by the Maoris that two Europeans had visited their settlement and insulted a Maori woman. Whether this accusation is false or not cannot be ascertained, but the Natives allege that they recognised the men, who were not members of the Armed Constabulary foroe. It is suspected that there may be some foundation for the story, and that it may be part of a scheme by pakeha Maoris to instil a feeling of irritation, which will gradually be fostered until a flame is kindled. There is no doubt that the utmost efforts of these land jobbers are being used to defeat the proceedings of the Government, and their organisation is so extensive that it is almost impossible to checkmate them at all points. The Government is fully on the alert as to the danger, and is using every care to guard againßt it. The road making oontinues to make good progress, and it is intended to send up another detachment of Armed Constabulary shortly, unless Mr Bryce, on arrival, sees reason to alter his plans. Captain Fairohild has orders to have the Hinemca ready to start at any time at an hour's notice. [by press association] HAWERA, February 3. It is expected that it will take a week to com pie e the formation of the road between Waibiand Waingongoro, and the constabulary will then start to form the road towards Kaupokouri. The Native Minister is expe -ted here to-moriow. No Natives are allowed inside the camp at Eapiki, but are permitted to bring commodities for sale, and a sentry is placed to keep them from intruding inside the _ line. Such precautions are necessary, but nothing is done to wantonly hurt the feelings of the Natives, who consider themselves owners of the soil.