WAIKATO.

Colonist, Volume IV, Issue 325, 30 November 1860, Page 3

WAIKATO.

L (From the Southern Cross, November 16.) The Waikatos are still in a state of uncertainty as to what to do. War has not proved the pleasant occupation which they anticipated, and peace they are ashamed to ask for. A feeling of animosity has naturally been awakened in their breasts by the conduct of the chief whom they went down to assist, and who stood aloof whilst they were being cut to pieces. William King is, we daresay, at present more in fear of the Waikatos then are any settlers in the country. A rebel to the Queen, a traitor to his own countrymen, a braggart in the council room, and a coward in the field, verily he holds .a proud position! Some feelings of pity for the fate of the misguided Waikatos we may feel, but any such sentiments for the arch-mover in the work of destruction, which has laid waste the garden of New Zealand, would be utterly thrown away.

It was rumored two days ago that the Waikatos had sent in a message praying for peace. We have no doubt that they are most anxious for peace, but no more say than we Europeans are. We however desire a real one; and will state what in our opinion would-be the proper manner in which to receive any overtures. Let tbe natives be ordered to lay down tbeir arms unconditionally. If they mean obedience to the law they will do so, and if they do not, it will be as well to know their intentions at oncej if we wish to avoid having wars recurring at stated periods Jike Wellington earthquakes. At the present time a peace on any other basis would be a farce.