MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 13 September 1938, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

"THE SIGN OF THE CROSS.” (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) Equally important with our knowledge of the Maori language as a factor in civilising the Maori people, is to individualise every area of their land. Until the Native reserves and other lands held in common are partitioned and occupied by separate owners, there will be little or no improvement among them. Before they will work like the pioneers, each must hold a Crown grant, however small. The Maori is now compelled to work for others, or to remain idle. The system of common property among them paralyses their industry and causes disputes and despair, checks the industry of the active, and encourages the idleness of the lazy. Sole ownership is tne universal motive for work. Lord John Russell’s memorable words to the first Governor of New Zealand were: “To rescue the Maoris from the calamities caused by the contact of civilised men with barbarian tribes, has been the universal herald, and is a duty too sacred to neglect, whatever may be the discouragements.”

Amalgamation of the races may only become general by schooling and environment, and this is where our law of free, compulsory, and secular education should come into the picture. ■ This “Sign of the Cross” has recently been traced in the pedigree of practically every man and woman of outstanding genius or special ability in the .world’s history today. Already in the first and second generation of Maori halfcastes and quarter-castes, it is distinctly evident. Carroll, Ngata, Pomare, Buck, Hare Hongi, and many others are instances. This law of amalgamation shows that the physical type of the less numerous race shall disappear, yet the mental improvement is most striking.