THE ZULU PREMIER.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 2, Issue 153, 7 May 1879, Page 2

THE ZULU PREMIER.

John Dunn," the man who practically rules Zululand," is thus described in' a letter to the Pall Mall Gazette, written ■ from Utrecht, TransvaalHe is of stout build, dark complexion, and about forty three years of age. He has a pleasant face and a sharp, keen eye. John Dunn was formerly a clerk in a lawyer's office. Preferring the fres and easy life, of !i hunter to the drudgery of the desk, ho left the civilised parts of South Africa and lived in the field and bush. He gradually adopted Zulu habits and customs, and separated himself from the outward world. About ten years ago he took an active part in a Zulu civil war between Cetewayo and his brother, and at the sanguinary .and- . decisive battle on the Tugela, was spicuons for his bravery, and ifttP'; disregard of danger, which in the Zulu mind, almost amounts to heroism, Defeated by overwhelming numbers, he fled for his life, and swam the broad Tugela, seeking the protection of Natal, When Cetewayo became king he recollected i Dunn's valor aud bravery, and, although ( he had fought against him, sent for him and made him a ruler over a district and • his confidential adviser, which position he has held up to the present. He has amassed considerable wealth by securing the monopoly of the gun trade in Zululand entirely for himself, and other judicious trading speculation, Although possessed of considerable influence among the Zulus both by marriage and property, he knows the risk he hourly runs. This may probably account for one of his houses being within half-an-hour's ride of the Natal border. The greater portion of his property is in cattle, which is difficult to realise were he to attempt it. The eye of suspicion would be at once on him, and his life in danger.