THE NATIVE DIFFICULTY.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5707, 15 July 1879, Page 2

THE NATIVE DIFFICULTY.

(per press agency.) ' Patea, Monday. Te Whiti’s tactics have now changed. The ploughing having been so complete a failure, he has commenced different operations. Yesterday three natives gratuitously, without tho owner's permission, started fencing in certain properties at Opunake, but were arrested by the Armed Constabulary. This is taken as an intimation from Te Whiti that he is still in existence, and as determined as ever in his policy of aggression. The tardiness of the Government is causing a deal of comment, and there is much indignation amongst the settlers at the unnecessary delay in taking some decisive action. Since the reinforcements of Armed Constabulary arrived in this district, we have lost twice their number of good men who have left, and are daily leaving tho district for want ot employment. As far as strength goes, we are absolutely weaker since this difficulty arose than before, notwithstanding the Armed Constabulary being here. This is a serious matter; and should be remedied with more promptitude than the Government have hitherto been inclined to show.

It is probable we shall hear more of Te Whiti in the course of a few days. His persistency must be looked upon as a determination on his part to do all the mischief he can in spite of the Government.