Attitude of the Natives.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2693, 5 November 1881, Page 2

Attitude of the Natives.

From the messages sent to the “Lyttelton Times” by their special correspondent at the front,we may learn something of the attitude of the Natives in the present, to them, great crisis in their affairs. When Mr Bryce made his recognisance on Thursday he went “ right up to the very entrance of the pah.” A well-known Maori, an old master of the ceremonies was sent out with a polite invitation to the Minister and his staff to come inside. The interpreter, Butler, thanked him officially, and said that they would pay the visit on Saturday. The correspondent visited Parihaka himself on Thursday, and also yesterday, and spoke with Te Whiti. He saw no signs of preparations for resistance. Te Whiti was studying the Bible, and apparently deriving much hope and comfort therefrom. Strict orders were read out to the men yesterday afternoon cautioning them against entering the Maori whares, speaking to the Natives, or interfering with them in any way. They were also warned against loading and, above all, firing without express orders from the commanding officer, A company of 109 men strong was formed to act as an arresting party, and famished with handcuffs, all picked men, averaging nearly six feet in height all round.