THE DINNER AT TE AWAMUTU. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH, OWN SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.] Kihikihi, Thursday.

Waikato Times, Volume XVII, Issue 1410, 16 July 1881, Page 2

THE DINNER AT TE AWAMUTU. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH, OWN SPECIAL CORRESPOND ENT . ] Kihikihi, Thursday.

At conclusion of the dinner given by the inhabitants of Te Awai'nutu, it was too late to send full particulars. Altogether, some 30 sat down to the table, including Tawhiao, Wahanui, Major Mair, Tawhaio's two sons, Henare Kaihau and other great chiefs. Mr Walton, Chairman of the Highway Board, was in the chair. The dinner provided was a first-class one, and was done ample justice to by those present. The cloth having been removed, the Chairman proposed " The Queen, whom all delighted to honor." It was drank by Tawhiao and all present with enthusiasm. The Vice-chairman, Mr Sloane, in proposing the health of Tawhiao, was happy in seeing- Tawhiao and his friends present thei'p that day. He was pleased te see so nrmy smiling countenances before him. They were all alik^, the colour made no difference. Slight it always remain so. Tawhiao : My word to you all is tfm: I first came to Alexandra, then hero. I am pleased with the manner I have been leceived. It is through my good intention you see me and these chiefs here today. I will not consent to anything 1 deceitful. You can all see me here. These chiefs and I want everything now to be right, and it shall bo so. I greet you all chiefs. Captain "Rutherford proposed, t¥ The Ministry of New of Zealand," coupled with the name of their member, Mr F.

A. Whitaker. This was responded to by Major Jackson, who only regretted that Mr Whitaker was not present, who could far more ably respond to the toast. He felt sure that the Financial Statement made by Major Atkinson would bo approved by the whole colony. He thanked them all cm behalf of the member, Mr Whitaker. Mr S.Westney proposed "The Unity of Hie Two Races" in a happy manner. He was born and bred in New Zealand, and he believed in the two races. He was glad to see thoiie present who were there, and hoped the union would last for ever. Wahanui in responding, said : — I greet you all here to-day ; I at one time thought wo would never meet here as at present. I thank the Almighty who has brought us together. I greet you all. Mr iSloane proposed the Health of Major Mair. That gentleman had long been of service to the Government. When RM. at Alexandra, he had given universal satisfaction to both racess. But another king came to reign, who did not know Joseph ; he therefore dismissed Joseph. Petitions were sent on such injustice to the House, but had no effect : but although lost for a while, his work remained in the heads of the natives. Major Mdir had dono what tho late Sir Doiial McLean, (.Irey and others had failed to do, brought in Tawhiao and cemented the union of the two races. Major Mair, in responding, thanked those present for the hearty manner they had acknowledged his humble services in bringing about such gratifying resuHs. He had, however, been greatly assisted by the native chiefs in clearing away the clouds, notably by Tawhiao, who always had it at heart to remove the troubles between the natives and Europeans. Honana also returned thanks for the reception, which closed the proceedings. Tawhiao and party are now the guests of Rewi, and will probably remain here over to-morrow.