THE WESTERN MAORI ELECTION.

+ The largo majority by which Hoano Taipua has been returned for tho Western Maori District is a convincing proof of the approval 1 with which tho natives regard the policy of tho present Government towards them. Thoro wero fivo candidates, and Hoano polled 216 votes more than wero recorded for his four opponents put togother. He is a decided supporter of Mr. Ballance's policy, and has hold several important public positions, and at times, wo bclievo, afforded tho Native Minister much useful assistance and advice. In overy respcot he is likely to prove a worthy succession to Mr. Te Ao. He is a man of great intelligence and enlarged viows. His principal opponent was the formidable Major To Wheoro, who formerly represented the district in Parliament, and who accompanied Tawhiao as chief adviser in tbo memorable mission to England. Major Te Wheoro was at ono timo one of the most influential natives in the North Island, and he has in various ways done good and gallant service to both races, but his visit to England has had the r evorse of a beneficial effect uponhim.and the Aborigines Protection Society and its ignorant sympathisers there would appear to have obtamod oonsiderablo influence over his mind. Since his return he has evinced a disinclination to support the liberal polioy initiated by Mr. Ballanco, and desirous rather of maintaining the barriers between tho two races than of broaking them down. His return to Parliament at the present juncture would have been unfortunate, and although wo have the highest personal esteem for Major Te Wheoro, we aro pleased that Hoane Taipua has inflicted so decisive a defeat upon him. Tho event is a highly significant ono.