RETURN OF THE TE KOOTI EXPEDITION TO TAURANGA.

Westport Times, Volume V, Issue 884, 7 November 1871, Page 2

RETURN OF THE TE KOOTI EXPEDITION TO TAURANGA.

Major Hamlin has returned with bis force, having scoured the plains round the inland lakes in search of the renowned Te Kooti, but alas! to no purpose. The bird (if ever seen on the plains) had fled, but where is not for wise ears like those in pursuit of him to become acquainted. Since Major Hamlin's return, Captains Preece and Mair, with their contingent, have also returned, half starved and in tatters. Most of the men are frostbitten, and are said to be suffering to that degree that our only medical officer here was telegraphed to yesterday to hasten inland with medicines and comforts to their relief. The force under these brave officers have proved themselves in every respect worthy of the high character which the Arawas have attained—" dai'ing and intrepid, careless of self and danger," who, in order to attain the object of their search, have penetrated the mountain fastnesses of a district where in some parts civilised man had never trodden, surrounded by dense forests, covered with snow ; ill-clothed, ill-provided, with an empty commissariat, save a few musty biscuits, the consequences of which are that a temporary rest must be obtained for many of them, whilst the greater portion, with hearts of oak, are already urging to be off again. To this wicked man (Te Kooti) no peace will be allowed, summer weather is beginning to display its warmth and verdure, when every likely and unlikely spot will be visited in order that the disturber of our settlements may be brought to justice, if summary justice is not awarded to him on the spot.—" Daily Southern Cross," Oct. 23.