FUNERAL OF MAJOR ROPATA.

Waikato Argus, Volume III, Issue 157, 15 July 1897, Page 2

FUNERAL OF MAJOR ROPATA.

M,UOK RorATA was buried on Tuesday, close to the grave of his forefathers, on t'opaka, a rooky fortress, which in former years was the scene of many fierce conflicts. The visitors were received with volleys of musketry. The natives then performed a wardaucc in a manner that reminded many present of old time 3. The accompanying songs referred to the victories of the Ngatiporou tribe led by the deceased. The wahinos then gave a dance of welcome, followed by a lament for the deceased chief, in which the Major's widow took a leading part. Mr Carroll aud Major Porter, who were present, stood with bowed heads before the coffin.

An adjournment was then made to the interior of a large meeting house, when addresses of welcome were read by Mr Aperana Ngata, M.A. After the speeches all adjourned outside, when Mie funeral ceremony was proceeded with. The pall bearers were Colonel Porter, Major McCreedie, Major Finn and Lieutenant Hislop. The burial service of the Church of Kngland was said by the Rev. H. Williams assisted by five of the native clergy. A force of the Perm nent Artillery, under the command of Major Messenger, paraded, and the Gisborne City Band played the " Dead March " as the cortege moved towards the burial place. At the conclusion of the service the tiring party tired three volleys. A feast followed, a large quantity of choice viands having been prepared by the natives, and during its progress numbers of natives sang songs.