A MAORI'S IDEA OF BANKRUPTCY.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XI, Issue 77, 18 March 1876, Page 4

A MAORI'S IDEA OF BANKRUPTCY.

Tbe following idea entertained by a Maori on the matter of bankruptcy is rather too good not to be banded down to posterity. A certain chief, a man of intelligence, and punctual in monetary matters with his pakeha neighbors, was lately a sufferer to the extent of some £30 or £40 through a man going through the Oourt. In relating tbe affair to some natives whom he was visiting, he told them that he had lost this money by a man becoming " Paekarapu." This word rather staggered tbe aboriginals, who immediately demanded an explanation. It was given as follows: — A pakeha who wants to become a " Paekarapu " goes into business and gets lots of goods" and does not pay for them. He then gets all the money he can together, say £2000, and

puts it away where no one can get it. All except £5. With this he goes to tbe Judge of the feupreme Court arid* tells him he * wishes to become < " Paetearapu." The Judge says he is very sorry, but of course it cannot be helped, and he then calls all the lawyers together, likewise all the men td whom the " Paekarapu" owes money, and he says: — "This man is 'Paekarapu,' but he wishes to give jteu all he h&n got, and so be baa asked me to divide this (the £5) amongst you all." The Judge thereupon gives £4 to the lawyers aud fl to the other men, and the "Paekarapu" gOBS home. This actually was the explanation given, and can be vouched for.