THE CAPTURE OF KEREOPA.

Westport Times, Volume V, Issue 906, 28 December 1871, Page 2

THE CAPTURE OF KEREOPA.

The details in connection with the above fortunate event are as follows: It was the belief of Eopata while continuing his search in the neighbourhood of Euatahuna that Te Kooti and Kereopa were in the hands of an Uriwera chief, named Kereru. This man had always kept aloof from the G-overnment, though, at the same time, he had never, so far as wo are aware, been engaged in actual hostilities with them. He is said to have expressed himself long ago to the effect that he would have nothing to do with them, neither would he deceive them by professing friendship which ha did not feel. The lapse of time, and the change in the circumstances in the end appear to have altered his views. A few weeks ago. accordingly, he presented himself to Eopata, and desired him to represent to the Government his willingness to submit. Eopata immediately taxed him with harbouring the two principal rebels. Ivereru replied in the enigmatical. suggestive manner, characteristic of his race, " Well, you are sending your kokiris (search parties) through the bush in all directions; why do you not send one down the track of my whare ?" This meant either, "if you find no one there, you will see the injustice of your accusation ;" or, "if you find the man you are looking for there, that will satisfy you as to the bona fide character of my repentance." Eopata took tbe hint—using at the same time all due precaution against treachery. He summoned Te Whiu, till lately an arrant rebel, before him, and said to him: " Here is a chance for you to wash out your past crimes. Lead this kokiri to Kereru's kainga, at Manawarua,and catch Te Kooti and Kereopa." Atthe same time he sent other kokiris in the same direction, which might be made available in case of need.

Immediately that Te Whiu's party reached Mauawarua, they commenced to search the whares there. They were not long in finding the one where Kereopa was in hiding. As soon as he saw them he rushed out and took to his heels with all hia speed. Three men started in pursuit of him, among whom was Te Whiu himself, who also was successful in catching him. After a sharp struggle, in which both combatants fell, the two Ngatiporoiis came to their comrade's assistance, and the prisoner was Becured. Keruru, it is said, is now desirous of going to Wei • lington to give ia hia allegiauce at head-quarters. He ia a relation of Kereopa's, and now that the latter has been taken, he considers that the last tie which/connected; him. with the rebels, has been dissolved. This circumstance augurs well for the ultimate capture of Te Kooti.