MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 13 March 1939, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

MAORI LOGIC. (Recorded by. J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) Despite the change of control last mentioned, the dual or even treble authority was more confusing than ever. The British Government supplied the 6.000 soldiers, the Colonial Government their cost, and the Governor, who knew more about the Maori than either of them, was in full command of the military machinery. This divided authority was the immediate cause of a disastrous war. At a meeting of the Maori chiefs with Sir William Fox, they politely acknowledged his assurances of goodwill; but insisted that the construction of the road could have no other purpose than to bring artillery, to destroy their forts, and to seize their lands. Sir William then decided to face the Maori King in his stronghold among the great Manaiapoto Tribe of 1000 warriors. He was received with all the courtesies of royalty at their command. The best house and the most comely maids served his meals, filled a new meerchaum pipe with strong Maori tobacco (Torori), and even sought to assist him to disrobe for a bath in the six foot canoe. On Sunday, after attending church with military honours and a bugle band, he had an interview with Wiremu Kingi. On Monday Rewi and all the chiefs met Sir William for a further interview; but none of them spoke. They deputed Aporo a noted orator to question and answer. Aporo said “Wi Kingi was right and Governor Browne wrong over the Taranaki War.” Sir William in an incautious aside to his associate remarked “Just what I've always said.” This was politely interpreted by one who understood, Aporo then asked “How can there be a trial unless the guilty Governor Browne is present?” The meeting was abruptly broken up.