MANAWATU.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume I, Issue 42, 23 April 1866, Page 3

MANAWATU.

A correspondent, writing under date Thursday evening, April sth, informs us that he was present at the meeting concerning the purchase of the Manawatu-Kangitikei Block, held by Dr. Featherston on that day with the natives, amongst whom were those from Paroua. lakara the head chief of the Ngatiraukawas, had made his first speech. A large pole with two flags flying was raised nt the place of korero, and a quantity of flour, pigs, potatoes, eels, with a bag or two of sugar, were prepared for the feasting of both natives and pakehas. After lakara's first speech the natives were divided, half of them being for selling the land, aud the rest against it. The chief of the greatest consequence was in favour of sale, not only for the sake of obtaining the money, but also to put an end to the continual" dispute between the two tribes. After some further speeches had been made, both natives aud Europeans retired to partake of the provisions provided. Our correspondent informs us likewise that there is every probability of the talking continuing as long as the food lasts, but he thinks that Dr. Featherston will ultimately be successful in purchasing the block. .The question of the money was to have been" discussed on Thursday evening or Friday morning. Among the Europeans present were F. Robinson, Esq., J. T. Stewart, Esq., Mrs. Stewart, Miss Carkeek, Alexander Grey, Esq., and a number of the fair sex. — TV. Times. Later intelligence informs us that the purchase has been completed for the sum of £25,000.— Ed.