NATIVE AFFAIRS.

Globe, Volume XXIII, Issue 2357, 22 October 1881, Page 3

NATIVE AFFAIRS.

[By Tblbobaph.J [FBOM THE OWS OOBHKSPONDBNT OF THP “ PBBSB.”] WE LLINGTON, October 21. The Government received to-day some very satisfactory intelligence as to the attitude of Tawhaio. The Maori King went with Major Mair to inspect the new bridge, and expressed himself warmly interested in road, bridge and railway construction, &o. He intimated a hope that Alexandra, instead of To Awamutu, would be found a practicable point of departure for the extension of the Waikato railway southward from Auckland towards Taranaki and Wellington. Sanguine anticipations are suggested by his present attitude. He is reported to speak very contemptuously of Te Whiti as a pretender, and evidently would discountenance any assistance being given to the latter by his (Tawhaio’s) followers, who are said to be still cultivating extensively. Mr Bryce is staying at Wanganui to-day, but goes on to Opunako to-morrow. His Private Secretary, Mr Butler, follows, and I hear will distribute Maori translations of the Proclamation among the Natives. Beyond these small items there is nothing additional to record in regard to West Coast matters. Among the rumors in circulation is one that Sir A. Gordon is very desirous to visit Te Whiti in person, under the idea that he would be able to overawe end subdue the prophet, but that Ministers disapprove. Another is, that serious consultations have taken place with the permanent Law Officers, and by telegraph with the Attorney-General, Mr Whitaker, regarding the doubtful position occupied by Sir A. Gordon, in face of the fact that ho has no authority to supersede the dormant commission to Sir J. Prendergast, which came into force on the Governor leaving the colony without appointing a Deputy-Governor. It is said that Sir J. Prendergast himself, and nearly aI!J the leading lawyers, hold that Sir A. Gordon cannot legally act without a new commission. I quote these as reports being current in usually well informed circles, but of course cannot vouch for their accuracy. It is no secret, however, that a difference of opinion does exist between the Governor and his responsible advisers touching the Native policy of the latter, and that Ministers are firm and resolute in maintaining the attitude they have taken up with, they believe, the all but unanimous support of the whole colony. It is premature as yet to conjecture what will be the ultimate issue of the complication.

The Hinemoa took away some sixty more constabulary for Opunake this evening, all said to bo in excellent drill and thoroughly efficient. Another batch will so an follow. Most active preparations are being made for prompt and decisive action directly the period of grace expires.