TE KOOTI'S REPLY

Te Aroha News, Volume VI, Issue 345, 23 February 1889, Page 3

TE KOOTI'S REPLY

was that "he had already talked the matter over thoroughly with the Nabive Minister at Auckland, and he could not abandon his intention. He telt that he must go to Poverty Bay, for lie was getting old — he did not know how soon he might die, and he strongly wished to see his friends- before his death. He could not delay ; but" lie, was like the master of a vessel, who looked out for breakers ahead while crossing the bar. If there was too heavy a sea running he would pnt back." This, Mr Bush adds, may be interpreted to mean that if Te Kooti is strongly opposed he will return rather than risk provoking any breach of the peace. He no doubb means to do his utmost to reach the settlement of his friends in Poverty Bay, and will no"t defer his visit. It was his intention to leave this (Wednesday) morning for, Waimana, then pass through Opotiki, and next day will go to Maramutu, seven miles beyond Opotiki on the (Jisborne Road, proceeding on Friday to Poverty Bay. Mr Bush reports that there were 180 horses tethered around Te Kooti's encampmentab Poroporo, showing thathispartyhad been largely increased by local natives joining it. He saw no sign of arms of any description, and thinks it imDrobable that the whole of the party will accompany Te Kooti. The route which is baing followed is that which Te Kooti sketched out before leaving Auckland, and it will not take the party near Gisborne. It is evident that the nabives have been anbicipating and preparing for this visit, as large quantities of potatoes have been planted along the line of route.