THE "PROPHET" RUA.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 8142, 26 June 1906, Page 2

THE "PROPHET" RUA.

CAMPED NEAE GISBORNE. PIS PBESS ASSOCIATION. Gisbobnb, June 25. Bus, tlie so-called prophet, is camped about ten miles from Gisborne with local natives. The party numbers about 84. A large crowd of other natives and Europeans assembled, out of curiosity, on Sunday afternoon, when Bua addressed the gathering. He is regarded as a fine speaker, but his pretensions were treated mirthfully by most of the natives, who, however, say they will give him plenty to eat. He says his mission is peaceful, and that the only arms possessed by the party were a couple of fowling pieces used for shooting game in the bush. He offered to let a reporter, constable or anyone search the camp. He claimed that each passing cloud was oonveying him messages. These statements evoked laughter, as also his statement that the Sing is not due to arrive until Saturday next.

A STARTLING REPORT. POLICE INVESTIGATING. Gisborne, June 25. Sergeant Williams and two constables are out at the camp of Bua investigating a report that fyia has threatened to burn down the premises of a resident of Patutahi, in the vicinity of the camp. Further information will not be obtainable until later.

NEEDLESS EXCITEMENT. Gisborne, June 25. This evening startling reports were received from Patutahi, a township about two miles distnnt from Bua's camp, to the effect that Bua and hit followers had been making threats to burn down houses. Sergeant Williams, Mounted-Constable Iryine and Constable O'H&ra hastened to tho scene On their arrival at Patutahi, a large mooting of settlers was being held tr. devise protective measures, and tin Sergeant was asked if an armed patro' of settlers would be allowed. Thi police advised pationee and rode on tc tho camp. Kuawas found to be in bed, and the natives at first fearing he would be arrested, were reluctant to disclose his whereabouts. Tho troubli waß soon explained, however. Some natives had arrived from Wairoa in a drunken state, and going to the hote' were refused drink. They then threatened to burn down the hotel. Those were not followers of Rua, and the latter declared he would answer for the wholo of his eighty-two followers, that they would do nothing to cause a breach of the peaoj. On the polie returning to Patutahi, the settlers were reassured and gave cheers for the polioe. No further trouble it antioi. pal ed. Rua states he will return to Whakatane on Thursday.