AUCKLAND.
This day.
A high authority on Maori language and the author of a Maori grammar give* the following translation of Te Whiti's reply to the Governor. It is difficult to interpret a Maori proverbial sentence at all times, but particularly when it comes second hand, " Tawa " may be the word used by Te Whiti, but not sure that a Maori would apply "Maoa" to it. He is inclined to think the word should be "Taeawa" or "Taewa," which in the Waikato and among the Ngatiawas of Taranaki means " potatoe." The principle is the same in both readings, viz., that "The time for action is come." The precise meaning of this is not clear, but the same reliable auhtority explains the sentence as meaning " The potatoe is cooked," i.e., " The food is prepared for eating," and there is nothing now to be done but the Governor ~and Te Whiti to partake of it.
Heavy shower of rain accompanied by a severe hail storm fell this morning.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/THS18801231.2.8.1
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Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3748, 31 December 1880, Page 2
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166AUCKLAND. Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3748, 31 December 1880, Page 2
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