WAIPROA.

Hawke's Bay Times, Volume 6, Issue 331, 11 December 1865, Page 2

WAIPROA.

LARGE NATIVE GATHERING. DETERMINATION OF THE HAU-HAIJS TO Commence War!! [FROM OIJE OWN CORRESPONDENT.] _ November 26. Foe the last six weeks wo have been almost without a mail—only two numbers of the Times having come to hand during that period. Surely if Maoris cannot be made to fulfil their contracts in respect of carrying the mails, their tenders should not bo invited, nor accepted if offered. It is time this state of things was brought to a close. Since my last, affairs have been gradually, but surely, drawing to a state of war. We have to-day bad a very large meeting of natives, both Hau-bau and friendly,—the latter trying by every means in their power to persuade the enemy to turn. Kopn. especially was very urgent with them—doing all in the power of man to prevent, if possible, an outbreak, but without avail; as they have plainly told him that they will not be moved from their purpose ; and he is, therefore, sending in to town for arms, ammunition, and men to aid him against them, and to protect the district; and I fully believe that, on the arrival of these supplies, the war will commence in this district. Kopu has given them full explanations of the plans of the Government, and showed them how foolish it is to continue in rebellion, when their submission would be received, and they might be pardoned ; while if they began fighting again they would not only lose the opportunity, but also forfeit all their lands to the Government. It is, however, beyond my power to convey to you one half of what he said to them, or the arguments he used. Suffice it to say that, finding all his efforts of no avail, he re- • solved upon sending a messenger to Napier, .as I said before, requesting supplies ; and I am glad to be able to avail myself of the opportunity of hitdoing so to send you the above.

By the arrival of the Sturt on Saturday evening last wo have later news I'rom the district, extending to the Bth inst. Fighting had not yet commenced but was daily expected ; a number of troops were brought there by the Sturt from Poverty Bay ; and everything goes to show that war will shortly commence. There was, however, divison in the Hau-hau camp; but it would most likely only stave off, for a short time, the evil day. We regret that our correspondent’s letter has not come to hand by this opportunity.