TARANAKI.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume IV, Issue 80, 7 April 1869, Page 2

TARANAKI.

We are indebted to Mr. B. Jackson, for permission to publish the following letter, which contains much interesting matter with regard to the state of things in Taranaki, and the course intended to be pursued by the Government: — New Plymouth, April 3, 1869, Mr. B. Jackson, Dear Sir. — Knowing the interest you take in anything concerning Taranaki, I think the following will not only interest you but others as well. The Hon. the Native Minister, J. C. Richmond Esq., landed here yesterday from the steamer as also Colonel "Whitmore and Mr. Booth. The Sturt returned immediately .to Opunoki for men, and will be back to-morrow. This afternoon Mr. Richmond^ addressed a public meeting of the settlers, and in au answer to a question, said the reason that the Assembly had not been called together, was, firstly that the Government was waiting information from Mr. Fitzherbert, respecting finances, and, secondly, that the Governor would have to accompany the Duke to Auckland, and that although the Assembly could be held without the Governor being present in Wellington, it might be inconvenient, as it was possible the Ministry might have to send in their resignation. He also said no money was being spent, other than that voted, but acknowledged the Ministry was using various little nest eggs. As the member for the Grey aud Bell Block, he would not resign at the present time, even if called upon by a majority of liis constituency. That the Ministry had a distinct native policy which they were carrying out. That the crushing of the rebellion would take time, but tbat every thing was going on favorably, the men getting into better training and so on. That it was a question with the Ministry up to yesterday at 3 p.m. as to the advisability of removing Colonel Whitmore and his men from the Patea district, and going over to the East Coast after Te Kooti, but that information had been received thafc a war party had set out, and were throwing up fortifications at the White Cliffs. This would alter their plans. He rather led us to believe that now a movement would be made towards Maukou. That the Government would not offer head money, and tbat there was no other course open at present to try Hauhau rebels, than the usual courts of justice. A great deal more was said, but nothing definite ; a mere glossary of things to come, sounding very well to an audience not accustomed to hear Mr. Richmond's speech, and taking all in as gospel. Tours truly, W. H. Hulke. Monday, sth, 10 a.m. — News is, that there are 300 Natives at the White Cliffs. Whitmore's forces expected over here this afternoon.