BAY OF ISLANDS.

New Zealander, Volume 1, Issue 19, 11 October 1845, Page 2

BAY OF ISLANDS.

We understand, that notwithstanding the reinforcements arrived* no active hostile measures will be re-commenced before the arrival of the new Governor In the latest English newspapers received, there is no intimation, whatever, of his name, although common rumour here, has assigned the dignity to more than one. We cannot but avow that a fearful crisis for the Colony is approaching, the res alts of which will solely depend on the ability and character of the individual appointed to adjust the present distracted state of affairs. As regards the European settlers, and matters and policy connected with them, we deem riot the difficulty to be arduous ; but it is as to the measures towards the Natives that we look forward with deep and anxious interest. It will require aMetcalfe or aPottinger to settle, skilfully and peacefully, without sacrificing British honour and interests, our relations with the Natives - We, ourselves, know full well that, already, among some of the most powerful and influential chiefs, the recall of the Governor is subject of much discussion and deliberation. They understand that the death of Captain Hobson, who was a great favourite among them, obliged the Queen to send another Governor, but that his present Excellency, who is likewise much esteemed, by them, should go away so soon after his arrival, excites their natural inquisitiveness ; and it has been unwisely and mischievously circulated among them, that the Queen of England is not pleasedjbecause Capt. Fitzroy has not punished John Heki, and that he is too kind and considerate to all the natives. To those who are well acquainted with the general character, natural feelings and innate suspicion of the Maori, we need not remark what effect this prevalent impression will have. Ihey, we doubt not, will remain quiescent, until the new Governor arrives; but when he does come, every act, proclamation, and measure towards themselves will be viewed and received with the greatest distrust. We wonld therefore earnestly and most seriously invoke our fellow colonists to be cautiously circumspect not only in action, but in all oral communication, with the Natives at the present time ; for we assert, calmly, that in our opinion, the settlers are on a Volcano, which may, unless providentially averted, in a few short months, burst forth, desolating the whole colony with war and bloodshed.