RUA IN THE BOX.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 160, 14 July 1916, Page 5

RUA IN THE BOX.

NEVER HOSTILE TO PAKEHA. WHY HE ASSUMED ROLE OP TO HUNG A. (Press Association) AUCKLAND July 12. The confining stage of the Rua trial was entered upon to-day. Rua entered the witness box at midday. At first he gave his answers quietly, speaking softly in a light voice, which contrasted strongly with the speech of other native witnesses. As his examination proceeded, however, he livened tip, ami gave his answe ns quickly, accompanying them occasionally with rapid gestures. Mr London stated that it had been alleged that tin- witness had claimed that he was the ‘’Holy Ghost.’'

Witness: “It is correct as far as it goes, that I uttered the words I am the Holy Ghost; but then the Holy Ghost is in each of us.”

“Have you over sot up as a tohunga or a prophet?*'—“l have as a tohunga. ' ’ “in what respect?"—“ln order to conduct affairs as they should be conducted; to do good work."

“In what direction?" —“For guidance within one’s heart, and guidance to work the land; for tlie workings of one's inner conscience; for repentance. One should show for his evil deeds for his proper conduct in life. "

“Have you ever made any declaration' hostile to the- Government as a Government or the pahoka as a race.’’ —“No, from my youth upwards I have uttered no words against the Government or against the European..’’ “Have you ever made any utterance giving expression hostile to His Majesty the King of England?” —“No. 1 nave always appreciated the goodness of' his grandmother, and from her downwards I have had nothing else but respect for the Royal Family.’’ ‘i Have you ever suggested, stated, or interned that you would be either King or Kaiser of New Zealand?’’' — “Never.”

The witness denied having an arm ed bodyguard Ho was accompanied on his journeys by his wives, whom he had; situated iu various homes. The ; bomes| wore ranged oyer the Tuhoi district of; II,OQO acres, lands, which - had been oc-j cupied. by the original Maoris who came across the,. ;: wateits in . the canoe Mata-) tifa..)Witness now had supreme author-; ity over the district.