Friday, 1 May, 1846. Busylily engaged in talking with the several Natives interested in the Land question Mr. Symonds very properly avoiding any interference till called on by either party to act as umpire a good deal of bickering on the part of a few white people of this place but not by any of the respectable settlers by a little good humoured talk to all the influential natives of each tribe viz. Te Anua Te Mawai Rangitauira and Hipanga called with Mr. Symonds on all the J. Ps of Wanganui slept at Mr. Taylors. Saturday, 2nd May, 1846. In the morning attended native service with Mr. Taylor pleased to observe the great improvement making by the young children in learning English hymns and arithmetic by heart. Te Tahaua's behaviour is satisfactory and Pakou his eldest brother Turoas son and acknowledged representative of the Pahitokotoko tribe is improving very much in his conduct and as he is an artful man will no doubt see the policy of behaving kindly to the settlers Ngapara one of the same tribe is more troubelsome, though he does not strongly oppose the land being paid for. A misunderstanding that has long existed between the Ngatiruaka or the Putiki Natives and the tribes of Rangitaiara and Pakoro seem fast disappearing the chiefs of the latter party coming uninvited to visit their Patehe friends and it is to be hoped that the amicable adjustment of the land question will set aside many of their little differences and unite them in friendship towards the settlers who appear as solicitous for their good as they have always done and who deserve great credit for their patient forebearance and industry more especially the ladies of Wanganui who are all except Mrs. Taylor without female servants and do all the domestic duties that they never have been accustomed to with as much ease and coolness as if they had been brought up to such a life from their infancy amongst these I would more especially notice Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Wilson ladies who would be counted highly respectable and possessing every accomplishment and attainment of the very first members of society. Unfortunately their children for want of good schools will be far behind them in the disadvantages of want of society and education fitted for their stations. The land question that absorbs my undivided attention is going to the best of my observation satisfactorily the Natives are talking the matter over amongst themselves without any forcing or bribing on the part of Mr. Symonds or myself and the former gent though anxious is wisely refraining from frequent interviews and I hope to be enabled to give the Natives a full honorable and just idea of what they are about to do and it is with great surprise I find they know little or nothing of the real state of the land question nor are any of the boundaries known to them either north or south nor can I well discern what the several gentleman to whom this important matter was entrusted were employed at when they did not determine any of the boundaries the whole matter has now got to be gone into as if neither purchaser nor commissioner Protector or Interpreter had ever spoke a word on the subject that there will be many difficulties in the way before a satisfactory arrangement is made is very evident as in the 1st place the purchase was made from a young chief of Tuhua who had in reality nothing further than a nominal claim to land in the supposed block of land belonging to the N. Z. Company that young chief being set up above the real owners by Mr. Wakefield who first made the purchase and tho I do not reflect on any of the Gentleman (as none of us are entirely infallible) that have been concerned in the Wanganui Land question it must be clear to every observer that in all purchases the purchaser is supposed to know the quality and extent of his purchase without reference to fictionary or ideal boundaries nor can it be too fully impressed on all parties to have a clear definition of boundaries and an open unreserved conduct towards the natives an unremitted communication with them from time to time as favourable opportunities present as to the propriety of fully considering the advantages they must derive from having Europeans amongst them and quietly relinquishing their lands for a mutual benefit as well as to fully impress the great advantages of purchasing cattle and horses however prejudiced they may appear to be clever argument overules them and takes but a short time for them to find out what is of such real and permanent benefit to them nor can I but reflect with pleasure on the good effect that a payment in Stock and Cattle has had on those of Taranaki already they have increased and they are of themselves empowered to pay the claims of Absentee Natives without being a burden on either Govt. Cony. or Settlers whichwould undoubtedly have devolved on them. In the Evening Pakoro called on me and said he had agreed to part with his land and begged to get a little trifle to purchase rum with I told him I did not encourage drinking but made a present of 2/6 with which he was well pleased but not less so from being styled Pehi after his Father Pehi Turoa. It is most astonishing that it has not been reported by either Comr. Spain or his staff that the Rangitike Natives are claimants to a considerable portion of the Block claimed by the N. Z. C. on the southern extremity and the Ngaraurus of Waitotara on the northern this will evidently prove an unforseen difficulty, dined for the first time at the Mess. Sunday, 3 May, 1846. Attended church in the forenoon dined at Capt. Campbells spent the Evening there and went to bed about 1/2 past 8 P.M. Monday, 4 May, 1846. Breakfasted at Mess not remembering I promised to have done so at Mr. Kings R. Magistrate till I met him in the street and was reminded by him of my promise I answered that I had a bad throat had already had tea but would join him in another cup Capt. Campbell was there to breakfast. After Breakfast Mr. Symonds called up to tell me that Dr. Rees had said that Maketu an influential chief and claimant would not come near us and had determined on keeping away but the notoriety of Mr. Rees story telling had become such a byeword in the place that I told Mr. Symonds to patiently listen to all he might hear but not to be alarmed about the absence of Maketu who made his appearance by 11 A.M. with some of his followers but I fear this will not stop D. Rees assertions, as we may expect a succession of unpleasant forebodings and predictions by him while we stop here. I hope I may refrain from noticing the foolish conduct of idle gossippers while we are stationed here. Walked with Mr. Nixon to Maketus Pah had a conversation with him I told him matters had not been fully discussed as he was absent. At this he was pleased that he should be thought of sufficient importance to detain operations but such is the vanity of the New Zealanders that without a little blarney there is no getting on some good humoured leading does better than hard driving and gains numerous friends without enemies. About 12 A.M. I met a Mr. Mathews who is married to a sister of Mr. Clarkes, who gave me some little information respecting the natives of Wanganui I wished him to give me all the names of those he thought could give a valid transfer of their lands. Mr. Taylor called on Mr. Symonds and myself and said the natives on his side wished to see me I dined with him and went to the Pa where I found all the representatives of the Wanganui tribes were collecting for a korero and after they had spoken for a long time about their land with frequent allusions to the Pakehas I gave them an answer to the effect that we were conferring an everlasting benefit upon them by living amongst them that money of which they were now to receive a large portion was our greatest treausure that we wanted to have underhand work but as clear and open as the sun that shone over head that their young men should go out with the surveyors to point out the boundaries that we did not wish to bind them to anything till they first saw openly what they were about that Mr. Symonds was the principal Govt. Agent for them to look up to that I as their Protector and advisor should wish to take something that would increase and benefit them as payment for their valueless tracts of land they so foolishly set such store on hoping that they would be an example to all unruly tribes in the Island and their children after them live inhappiness amongst the English who could make them a great people I sat down when they all expressed great satisfaction at what had been said and told me they would send their young men with me next day to perambulate the boundary - After crossed from Mr. Taylors to our Mess room and reported proceedings to Mr. Symonds - Tahaua retd. some few articles that were stolen by the natives, when the Taupo party of January 184 - . Tuesday, May 5th, 1846. Dark and rainy looking in the morning about 11 A.M. proceeded with the surveyors to have the boundaries pointed out about 20 of them delegates from the several tribes were with us and our first start was to Motukaraka or Wilsons Bluff accompanied by Te Kawana and Mitikingi on our way we killed a bush pig and were greatly amused by our guide Te Kawana who ran about from hill to hill taking quaint observations with his quata for quadrant as he termed a walking stick he had in his hand. He managed with his natural quickness and good eyesight to lay down the boundary between the Waingahu and Wanganui Natives straight as a line could be drawn and after some heavy walking through swamp and sand with occasional lagoons covered with wild duck we encamped late in the evening at Capt.Campbells section at Heretoa lake which is the prettiest spot I have yet seen at Wanganui. Here we had some dinner and by moonlight Mr. Willis and myself walked in to Wanganui he wished to write by the Catharine Johnson to Col.Wakefield and I was desirous of seeing some Waingahu natives to include their lands that they might receive a portion of Mr. Spains award and thus settle the Eastern boundary. Paid Mr. Taylors boys for ferrying us across the river 1/6 related proceedings to Hynds slept at Capt. M. Campbells. kumaras for breakfast and as it rained we passed a miserable day amongst dogs, cats and a most dirty set of natives my companion Mr. Willis had a severe headache and by the time the chief arrived in the evening a young lad provided a Pukeko that we boiled amongst some potatoes and drunk the soup which was really good and cured my companions headache. Had a long conversation with Aperahama or Tiapa the acknowledged chief of this tribe who was most indignant at not having been consulted by any of the parties who had previously come to settle the Land question and declared if we confined our meetings and payments to those of Wanganui they should remove the settlers 5 or 6 of whom were settled on their Lands. That he and his tribe the Ngatiapa were the original owners of the Lands from Motukaraka to the Rerenga Mr. Camerons section No. 112 on the map that they were never conquered or removed from their Lands except when fighting other tribes that they owned the lands along the coast formerly but were reduced in number to 200 fighting men. Saturday, 9 May, 1846. We left the settlement of the Wangahus after a breakfast of a couple of Tois and some potatoes the only fare they could procure their guests No. 1 JOURNAL BOOK of SIR DONALD MACLEAN K.C.M.G. 27 April, 1846. WANGANUI LAND CLAIMS. and after passing the first bank or range of hills we got in to a valley about half a mile wide claimed by the Wangahu tribe which we ran down till we reached our surveying party who were then at Dr. Allisons where I appointed to meet them had a good breakfast and moved down to - Camerons about a mile distant where we feasted on cream milk and with the usual welcome that my countrypeople the good highlanders are celebrated for as truly recorded by Burns "In heaven itself I'll ask no more than just a Highland welcome". The rain poured down in torrents and all our party were anxious to get home. We arrived at the Hotel about 4 P. M. had dinner at 6 P. M. with Nixon Esq. J. P. left there being rather fatigued early in the evening and got to bed. Sunday, 10 May, 1846. This holy day deserves to be particularly noticed by me from having for the first time for the last two years heard a Presbyterian clergyman oh how lovely it is to worship God in the simplicity of our hearts how delightfull to have his words proclaimed without pomp form or shew by one of his ambassadors it really brings to mind the Scriptures which our infant years have learned with vivid recollections may God instill his truths into our hearts and teach us to draw nearer to him as we tread the uncertain paths of life. The text of this day was from Pauls epistle to the - Love they neighbour as theyself how beautifully and clearly this excellent was defined by Mr. Inglis I wish he were an inmate of my walls for some months a blessing indeed surely must attend those who proclaim peace and good will to all mankind. Monday, 11 May, 1846. Up at day break in the morning roused Wm. to his work though some curious fears have once or twice entered my heart that my poor faithfull Sambo will yet prove otherways and even perhaps end his masters life still I cannot help thinking this is the devils delusion to cause my suspicion and care or else a warning from my Maker be this as it may let me not destroy my servants character by even suspecting him to others. Breakfast with Capt. Campbell and again met the Rev. R. Inglis with whom I had a long conversation as to his prospects in N. Zealand. I find he is not a member of the Established Church but materially the same principles and religion. I promised him a few months residence if he visited me at Taranaki gave his Natives a trifle to encourage them to behave well to him and his colleague the articles were two shirts 1/2 H. tobc. with good advice as to their behaviour to a man of the same or nearly so religious principles as myself I regret my stock of cash was so small but gave him £ a sovereign to pay his way though I did not feel certain that he wanted it was tendered as a token of my good wishes towards him and my desire that God may bless and prosper all his servants that faithfully attend their calling. Wrote the Wangahu natives stopped at the Hotel all day wet blowy and disagreeable weather no means of getting to work had lunch with the P. M. in the forenoon dined at the Mess at 6 P. M. writing in the evening. Tuesday, 12 May, 1846. Up at 6 A. M. fine clear weather posted letters for Wellington heavy flood on the river which looks beautifull breakers on the outer bar no conveyance to Wellington for some time till the sea subsides. The surveyors have gone to lay down the west boundary at Kai Iwi on reference to the Revd. R. Taylor and the Putiki natives it is found advisable to have the boundary at Ikapirau or as termed generally by the natives from a whale that laid there Omapu the reason for having the boundary fixed at this place is to avoid contention with the Ngarauru tribe of Waitotara. The natives accompanying the surveyors are Tahama Turoas son Hoani Wiremu and Te Mote all owners of land there and valuable witnesses to the boundary. The Putiki natives were visited by Mr. Symonds and myself in the forenoon they came up to the Mission House Hori Kingi a newphew of his of some influence named Rangi runga and his brother Te Mawai. The conversation was turned on the boundary between the natives of Wangahu and those of the Wanganui the latter tribe presing on their strength to include the boundaries of the former and dispose of their lands the boundaries first laid down by Paipai an influential native of Putiki Pa and related by marriage to those of Wangahu were acknowledged by a majority of the contending tribes, but from a supposed insult of the Wangahus in not visiting Mawai and his brother instead of Rangitauima an old chief of the River with whom they had a consulation as to their relative claims of land the offence thus given roused the feudish antipathy existing between Mawai and the others and he determined on altering a boundary he only a day before acknowledged and wished to insult the weaker party by giving way to his caprice the result of which if admitted by us to the prejudice of a weaker party would be the height of injustice and we can easily foresee how the unfortunate settlers would suffer from the injured tribe who would very naturally give continuous annoyance if dispossessed of their property and occupied by Europeans nor would our acceptance of such land speak much for our integrity and disinterestedness as they are the weakest we ought to aid and maintain their claim rewarding them for it without in the least injuring the others. I am sorry to find Mr. Taylor with whom I have frequently agreed on other matters differ entirely from me in this and would even wish to expunge the Wangahu claim that the exclusive compensation might fall in the hands of the comparative few that are situated around himself at the mission station. Former experience amongst these people especially in land matters to clearly convinces me of the folly of confiding to much in the promises of any distinct tribes or parties but in dealing with them as any other race of people let even handed justice be our motto, without which success in the general management of their affairs will never attend us. My determination is therefore if not overuled to carefully enquire into every individual claim minutely as far as lays in our power with a view of totally extinguishing all of them. Wednesday, 13th May. At about 5 A. M. had a conversation with the native claimants of Kai Iwi and glad to find a disposition on their part to have Europeans amongst them as it will be the cause of their returning to land they have so long vacated from fear of Tauas from Taupo and other parts. Requesting however that the boundary be fixed at Ikapirau; the Waitotara claimants are glad to hear that Europeans are likely to settle in that part of the Block what a blessing to the poor distracted tribes along the coast had they settlers amongst them to advance their civilisation and real interests. Surveyors at work on the south side of the river pointing the reservations of Pahs and patehes of cultivations with which all the natives seemed satisfied and relinquish their claim to one built in the vicinity of the Town that proves an annoyance to the settlers. All our work thank God is going on smoothly at present and Mr. Taylor takes a more disinterested view of the Wangahu claims. Wrote to Uncle McCroll a short letter informing him I was at present engaged here with Mr. Symonds in settling the Land question visited Mr. Taylors hospital and infant school. Attended evening service with the Natives and arranged for starting up the river in the morning wind and weather permitting. Dr. Wilson Nixon and Mr. King dined with me a difference in words between Wills and Symonds none of consequence tho these things are better avoided both are right in part I must say of Willis as a young man he is zealous for his employers and a very pleasing and promising youth with a great deal of shrewdness and good sense. Our party on the whole are good fellows as far as I have yet seen and wish for our undivided comfort they may continue so. Land question progressing and days proceedings satisfactory. Thursday, 14 May, 1846. Early preparations in the morning for starting up the river the weather continues favourable for our surveying native reserves. Started up the river about 10 A.M. in three partys Mr. Symonds and White in Mr. Taylors canoe with Mawae Mr. Cameron Nixon and myself in Maketus canoe and a third canoe of the Patutokotoko tribe headed by Ngapara the river looked beautiful and something very characteristic of native ambition ensued one canoe striving with the other with the chief of each standing in a graceful posture in the centre of his canoe reciting a canoe song as they went along and shaking a tomahawk or spear over the heads of the pullers if they happened to relax in pulling on the scene cannot be justly dealt with in the bare notice of events that the bustle of moving from station to station requires when settling Land questions. We got to Rangitauiras and found that old gent seated on an elevated wata or store house platform he spoke to us in a friendly tone with occasional hints of a sarcastic nature as to what Europeans ultimately intedded doing he spoke of Tirawake and said he sold his land to him, that he did not desire to retain any land within the Block he should soon go further inland or as he in an effective manner expressed himself "Me toku au ki Tuhua" I told the old man that land should be reserved for him and his Pah and burial ground particularly kept for him - he then talked to the natives and told them to sell their land in an ironical manner especially he had none, as the Wangahu natives had claimed his which claim he acknowledged Had some food and pursued our course up the river. Slept at Kaiarara a small Pa of the Patutokotio tribe. Friday, 15 May, 1846. After Breakfast we packed our tents and pulled up the river leaving all the other canoes behind the natives chanting their canoe songs as we pulled along. Got to Tumihaere the extreme end of the N. Z. C. Block of land the native Pa is picturesque elevated considerable height 3 to 400 feet above the level of the river amongst our party we had the most influential chiefs of Wanganui and had a deal of welcoming and speechifying from the natives there who appeared agreeable to dipose of their Land they appear a diminutive and unchiefly race of people and from all appearances form a concentration of the most troubelsome natives on the river - there is an idea amongst them that as the Govr. prevents powder and shot they may retain their timber and only dispose of the land. I replied that the land as parent of the trees of the forest could not part with the children and that the cold from Tongariro is felt by Europeans and requires wood for them as well as the natives that this however was the last law payment and talk that Mr. Symonds was here by the instructions of Govt. to settle the long pending question and hoped they would be all one in encouraging and behaving kindly to their European friends. Te Kuhi spoke in favour of te Pakehas and Te Mumu and many others to the same effect. Te Tahana Turoas son said that the Pakehas must have the rakau as well as the land. Maketu Pakaro and others evinced a strong desire to retain portions of timber land. The natives who spoke were 1 st Te Kuhi favourable 2nd Ko Homai good 3rd Ko Taru for keeping the timber and selling the land Tukarangi a short prelude to the others who are noted above he spoke favourably. 4th Napea, tracing their origin 5 Te Matoha 6 Ngarangi displeased 7 Ngaurahu, tolerable in reply to Ngapara about Kai Iwi 1st of our natives that came up with us - Metekingi a very good speech in favour of Europeans and faithfullness in keeping their words to us sacred. 2. Ngapara, that all the lands of Kai Iwi be given to the Europeans as many of his fathers or dead friends lay there. 3. Maketu, politics and poetry. 4. Tahana very good. 5. Matamata, Your land McLean from end to end. 6. Rangi runga, good speech. 7. Pehi, for selling land but keeping timber. 8. Mawai - the Wangahu claim. We had some native food for Lunch the meeting dispersed and in the evening there was a little amongst the natives respecting the boundary the unanimous agreement at the meeting was that "Kaiwaiki" a Kaika bush should be retained by the natives and fortunately it happens to be a reserve on the Companys plan for them. We took the bearings of the line put in a stake. Returned to the camp and had dinner about 6 P.M. some good songs from Symonds a happy evening after our days work and patience in listening to their speeches which viewed in the whole were most favourable and on our part I believe that our intentions and replys were equally favourable clear and tended to convey a good impression to the natives. They are not however an hospitable people on this score I gave them a good lecture and sent to another place for food for our party as this I was certain would have a better effect than bartering and begging for what I intended to pay them liberally. Saturday, May 16, 1846. Mr. Symonds Nixon and servant went down the river with Mawai whilst Messrs. Cameron and White some natives and myself went out to see the native plantations on the ridges behind the Pa at a place they call Ngature we returned to our camp about 1/2 past 2 dined and got ready to sail down the river to engage men and buy in supplys for our party we had a strong breeze against us down the river but with hard pulling fearing from the awful lightning that we might be wind bound we got to Wanganui Hotel about 1/2 past 6 P.M. where dinner was laying on the table for us. I have been much pleased with the conduct of Tahana Turoas son who has kept by me during the expedition up the river and gave me many usefull hints as to the best means of managing some of the Wanganui tribes, over whom being the principal chiefs son he has considerable influence. Sunday, May 17, 1846. The morning sun shined beautifully as its glimering rays broke through the morning grey and how delightfull indeed is the approach of the Lords day when man and beast alike seem to enjoy the blessings of their Divine Creator in giving them a day of rest when we may enjoy our time in reading and reflecting on the goodness of our maker. After reading a short time in my bedroom I was tempted to walk about on the banks of the river in front of the Hotel where I observed a group of natives who were restless in their demeanour and openly insulted a poor European female that was passing by tho I do not think that they intended any injury further than to please their folly. I addressed them on the impropriety of their Sunday conduct as it was a day we held sacred and did not allow any infringement on its rights. They replied they were not missionaries though one of the party a tatooed chief acknowledged the justice of my remarks as to our Sunday, but still wished me to enter on matters of business with them. They were from a Pah up the river "Pipiriki" and did not in the least benefit by intercourse with Europeans but what can we expect from the natives when along the beach there were walking about their sawpits some wretched looking and dissolute character of our own country that really made no difference except in so far as refraining from their more laborious toils on the Sunday more than any other day. One of them called to see me whilst I was at breakfast to complain of the group of natives who he said had sold him some logs of timber and were offered a higher price for them elsewhere. The servant told him to call after breakfast when a miserable Barefooted thin ill clad European presented himself covered with dirt and rags of blue cloth and white though I ought to say black duck trousers he was going on with his complaint when I told him that at one period of his life he had been an advisor to others on the Lords day (the poor fellow was ordained at one period as deacon) he ought certainly, however reduced in circumstances, to avoid a profanation of that day that I would early on Monday speak to the natives who I already advised to notice the Sabbath but could not interfere them. He apologised for his conduct and said he would return on Monday that his case was a hard as all he and his partner possessed in the world was paid for the logs - At Eleven o'clock in the forenoon I went to the delightful little church of Wanganui, which has all the appearance of the house of God from the neatness and simplicity of style in which it is erected as well as the kind and pastoral look of the worthy clergyman whose service was distinct clear and impressive, his text was from 1 Corinthians 3 chap. and 11 verse "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid which is Jesus Christ". After service I came with Mr. Taylor and family to the Mission House and slept there night. Monday, May 18, 1846. Attended prayers in the morning breakfasted at the Mission House, went to the infant school visited the Pa saw the Wangahu natives they were talking about their land to those of Putiki their Chief Tiapa or Aperahama is an uncompromising dissatisfied looking man more so indeed than any other of the natives around here. The Putiki natives are dissatisfied with the survey being carried through the lands they wish reserved for themselves. We were obliged to refer the difference to Mr. Symonds and when it was explained that it was only to be surveyed to shew how much land they were to have they agreed but Mawai the principal Chief was determined that he should have a block for his tribe and a portion of the Patutokotokos and therefore went after the survey would not hear of their surveying the land as the Company had it laid down on the map saying he never agreed to part with his lands without at least reserving what he wished for himself that would include 700 acres more than was reserved on the Companys plan but all of it is cut up with plantations and native gardens that a single could not be chosen out of the Block without annoyances from the owners of such land. The Companys Surveyor is fully convinced of this and admits the justice of Mawais claim his candour Mawais and determination shew that he fully intends to hold by his bargain when once made that he will have this block sacred to himself and his people and will also hold his word good as to what he sells and expressed fully in his language and manner the first boundary stake he named Mawai and carried a wonderfully straight line that included all his cultivations the surveyor was surprised with his accuracy as much as with his open determination and resolute conduct in preventing him from carrying out his lines as laid on a map. Mr. Taylor and I saw the line Rangitauira called to see us in the evening he continues friendly and attached to Tiraweki as he calls Jerningham Wakefield. Enquired into the case between exParson Davy and the natives about the logs they promise to return them gave Rangitauira some tobe. as a present and in payment for food supplied us up the river. 1846, Tuesday, May 19th. Ordered early breakfast and walked up to Watts shop to order provisions for the survey staff at Tunuhaere sawyers of Wanganui early at work old Rangitauira along with them at an early hour. Mr. Wills and I crossed the river with his survey men. I directed Gordon one of his people to accompany the Wangahu natives to see the boundary between them and the Wanganui people. Anaua and Mawai expect that the former tribe will consent to dispose of their land that is surveyed for which the latter chief promises to give them a portion of the compensation awarded by Mr. Comissioner Spain which is highly honorable on his part and his conduct yesterday has been a determined step but will prove most favourable to a settlement of the Land claims. The Wangahus are a very distant uncivilised race and will give us some trouble before we have done. I have been unusually independant with them and from the chiefs scowling look would not shake hands with him. Settled a case between Hulk and Rangitauira about some timber to which Hulk has come forward handsomely to pay the chief more than I considered was his right. Started at one o'clock up the river in Mr. Taylors large canoe pulled by my own natives and some of the Wanganui chiefs young men who I intend taking to Taranaki to join the Police if His Excellency should consent to it. We got up the river the tide in our favour very speedily food being put on board at the different settlements we passed. In writing this as well as in all my movements I cannot avoid constant thoughts of home Aunt Jessie and others seem as if accompanying me on all my journeys how delighted she would be with some of the scenes and scenery I pass through. A short time before my arrival at Tuauhaere the natives had a quarrel about their cultivations fearing they should be included in our boundary the majority however and a young chief amongst them named Tukarangi made a most favourable speech in favour of our intentions and desirous of having European settlers around him he is determined to assist us. 1846, Wednesday, 20 May. After a severe days tramping through the bush how pleasant it is to get back at night tho wet to the skin to ones tent and lay his tarpauline down for a carpet to me it is a greater luxury than if I were ushered into the finest drawing room in the Island. Here I have my faithfull Sambo running round me with dry clothes lighted candle water to wash and the feeling is if you were dressing for dinner at home the group of natives at the village are all busy getting a fire ready in front of the tent the group of natives at the village are all busy getting a fire ready in front of the tent the frying pan is not silent in the adjoining kahutu or native cooking house and ere my days diary is written dinner tea and supper all in one will be announced without ringing of bells or noise of footsteps on the Hall but still and peacefull on the banks of Wanganui in a small native kainga - I trust to enjoy my feast in happiness though in the silent recesses of this grand river. The days work has been satisfactory and the difficulty got up by the natives about the main boundary easily overcome the Surveyor and his party will have the line cut by 11 A.M. tomorrow after which they come here and will commence on the other side of the river. There are 7 native plantations of about 5 to 6 acres in each that are only of 2 to 4 years standing which may probably interfere with some surveyed sections. The piece of waste land not surveyed transferred to the natives will be a great boon to them on this place I met several pits where kumaras have been kept by forefathers of these tribes. "Kawahiroas's can we wonder when all tribes have strong prejudices in favour of the lands of their progenitors that the New Zealanders should be excepted or can we who are now a civilised people deprive those over whom we may have influence to forego their old prejudices when we are aware that the romans and other advanced in civilisation have rebuilt their towns and villages that were laid waste to the ground by sudden catastrophies and eruptions of nature such as the bursting of active volcanoes at Pompei Herculaneum near Vesuvius these places have after many severe inundations of hot mud and lava destroying towns villages and country seats been again rebuilt more especially that of Torre del Greco which tho offered by the clemency of His Sicilian Majesty a securer site for a residence still adhered to their city notwithstanding the numerous dangers of such a situation it was totally destroyed in 1631 and in 1737 a dreadful lava ran through within a few yds. of the town gate out of 18,000 inhabitants not one would vote to abandon this place nor is this the only instance of such strong feelings to the land of our birth it is even felt by the coldest hearted Britain let us therefore provide with equity consideration and justice towards the New Zealanders and time will shew this policy to succeed if accompanied by firm measures and a determination to keep them to their bargains there is nothing they delight so much as talking of their forefathers and great warrior relatives of gone by days the meanest amongst their tribes pretend some distant relationship with such great men. The evening is now coming to a close I have given the natives that have been with all of them young chiefs of note a cup of tea each and communicated various usefull anecdotes from Chambers Miscellany. How pleasing it is to convey information to such people when they are equally glad to receive it. Thursday, 21 May, 1846. At break of day I heard my native servant "Te Mairo" or wild man of the woods busy about my tent getting a fire on as he said for his Matua or Father and sweeping the foreground shortly after Sambo or Wm. comes with dry clothes and a cup of tea. Foggy weather longer in bed than usual. Rise up with a happy and contented mind thankfull for the bountiful provisions of a divine Providence a crowd of natives seated outside the tent relating yesterdays adventure and the swiftness with which I ran through the fern leaving them behind tho one or two of them could have passed me they gave a credit that might have been for themselves. At 12 A.M. Mr. Whites surveying party return to our encampment after a fatiguing journey the preceding day wet and hungry got on with the main boundary without interruption two of the natives sticking well by them throughout the day and working well Deightons knowledge of the (Language Maori) usefull himself active and willing dined at 1 P. M. Mr. White goes on with the line at Kaiwaki and we came down to Upokongaro meeting a canoe pulled by oars like a whaleboat with steer oar heard guns firing a report that they were fired in consequence of old Heuheu the chief of Taupo being capsized in a canoe as fearing he might be destroyed by a Taniwa or god of water on the Taupo lakes it is wonderfull to find the sensation this fine old veteran chief of the interior causes at such a remote distance from his place he seems regretted by all and not by any more so than myself the lovely valleys of Wanganui that present a most interesting scene looks beautifull with loud sounds of guns through the valleys and dales of the river. This year will form a singular epoch in New Zealand history so many of its renowned old Chiefs have died more than has ever been known to have died a natural death in one year amongst the dead if good old Heuheu should be one of the number are Watanui of the Ngatiraukawa tribe Pehiroa of Wanganui Reretawangawanga of Ngatiawa Hiko of-Tautari of Wakatane it would a ppear as if Providence forewarnd some wonderful changes by thus carrying away so many of the old leaders of tribes and as all its dispensations are beyond our comprehension we must suppose them ordained for good however we may feel the loss of such influential men. The Ngatiapas of Wangahu are claiming a great portion of the N. Z. C. Block inclusive of lands occupied by settlers. This appears to be a stretch of presumption on their part which ought to be at once suppressed as it looks like a pretext for demanding an undue share of payment I hope the tribes have not a coalition to this end if so and that I am spared I will affront for such conduct nor do I believe it possible to be generally the case as the rest are in excellent training at this moment for a final settlement of the question. Carried to No. 2 Journal. Kipu and Mairo. By work at Wanganui. Lamblains 1 sht. 2/6 Cash 3/6 Tobc. & Cash Ferrying 1/6 2/6 4/- Guide to Wangahu 3/- Present Pakero 2/6 Rangitauiras son 2/8 for going back for chain to Wanganui. 27 April, 1846. Monday, 27 April, 1846. The Govt. Brig Victoria arrived at Taranaki in the afternoon landed some money and had Mr. J. Symonds Private Secy. to H. Exy. Capt. Grey on board with two surveyors the former Gent being commissioned to settle the Wanganui land question with a letter from Major Richmond requesting to join Mr. Symonds and aid him in settling the question also a letter offering me an appointment as Inspector of Police at Taranaki with salary of £200 per annum and authorising a force of ten men and sergeant to be raised at a salary of £1. 5s per week and Sergeant at £1.10s. per week requesting me to communicate with the Col. Secretary without delay. Called in the evening on Mr. Symonds at Capt. Kings in the evening and was told by him that they came round in the Brig for me to come with them to Wanganui and being anxious for a speedy settlement of that Question was very desirous that no time should be lost in making a start, and to facilitate his wishes as much as possible I settled everything necessary that night, and had a meeting on the next morning of all the influential natives who amidst heavy drenching crowded from all quarters to my house requesting I should not leave them long else the Waikatos and Taupos come and destroy them. There was a plentifull feast of flour supplied for them after partaking of which I advised them to live in peace with all the Europeans to protect and befriend them as much as lay in their power to avoid resenting their little differences of every Kind till I returned and if danger was anticipated to send word to Wanganui, more particularly impressed their shewing kindness to the settlers beyond the boundary viz. Messrs. Cook and Flight. They gave assurances of good behaviour when I bid them farewell telling them I should have prolonged our conversation were it not I was keeping the Brig if I waited till after 12 A.M. the hour appointed to join Mr. Symonds. Wrote Mr.Turton requesting his assistance in my absence wrote through Mr. Webster to Capt. King for £1.0.0 and waited on Mr. Symond at 1/2 past 11, 1/2 hour before the time appointed by that Gentleman for starting. We got on board the Brig in safety had a pleasant and steady breeaz, Capt. Richards very kind and friendly pleasant company on board the Brig we formed a nice party of 4 for the settlement of the Wanganui question Mr. Symonds the chief myself his deputy and manager of the native affairs and a Govt. and Company's surveyor to cut the lines and point and stake out the boundarys. I had Wm. with me my black servant and two natives - very little sleep during the night. Wednesday, 29 April, /46. Got up at daybreak and fell in with a namesake a plain highland lad named Don. McLean from Tobermoy Carpenter of the Govt. Brig he knows my Brother Arch. well and told me he saw him when he was Capt. of the Barque Potentate he also told me there was a young child at Auckland named after me Flora McLean for my grandmother and Don. McLean for myself the parents are most respectable of the name of McDond. from the neighbourhood of Glasgow he also knew Dr. McLean of Tobermoy and told me his sons were doing well in Sydney. We continue to have a favourable breeze very comfortable and contented good breakfast and dinner better fare than is generally reported to be given in the Brig I have no doubt but many make unreasonable complaints of want of hospitality on the part of Capt. Rich. Towards the afternoon I suggested to Mr. Symonds that our landing even on the beach might expeditate our movements and we went ashore with all our Natives and traps there was little or no swell on the beach so we got nothing wet on landing. Mr. Symonds borrowed £1 of me to pay the crew, we pitched our tents at the Karaka had a good fire and were all in the best of spirits with the exception of Rangitaniwa an old Chief of Wanganui who did not like the idea of landing Pairaua anywhere, but at the entrance of the River that some display of his importance might be made by the Brig being seen of the entrance I however overcame his vanity by telling him that as the Karaka was his land and we should set bur foot on his territories in honor of him and see the extent of his possessions as well as partake of whatever hospitality his land presented of which I knew there was none he appeared satisfied and though a little gloomy we cheered him by some good food till he was in the best of humour. Hone Wiremu of Putiki waranui an interesting and most intelligent native, evidently knows little or nothing respecting the state of the land purchase at Wanganui the maps were shewn him in the cabin of the Brig and though he had heard of Native Reserves he certainly thought that the Natives still held all and would part with what they wished to the Europeans. He was greatly satisfied with the Governors friendship during his stay at Wellington having presented him with a handsome writing desk, etc. Thursday, 30 April, 1846. We left Te Karaka in the morning about a past 6 and had a pleasant walk to Wanganui where we arrived about 9 in the morning being only 1 day and a half from Taranaki, as we came to the road that turns off to Dr. Wilsons we met Mr. King the Police Magistrate with whom Mr. Symond and Mr. White went on to the Settlement whilst I stopped breakfast at Dr. Wilsons and kept Mr. Wills along with me got after breakfast to which I ought to observe was accompanied with that kind friendly that Dr. Wilson and his wife are so distinguished for. We enjoyed a glass of good old wine even after Breakfast having had a walk of 10 or 12 miles before it. The fruit trees in the Drs. garden are not so far on as I expected the season seems to have been unfavourable for their growth. I hear they pay Mr. Bell 6/s per bushel for their wheat or 22/s per cwt. which is to be had at Taranaki for 1/2 that price promised Dr. Wilson a small English boar from my place. Called at Capt. Campbells about 1/2 past 11 in the forenoon his son John has had a long fit of illness did not see Mrs. Campbell she was no doubt busy about her household affairs. Called at Mr. Kings P.M. crossed over to Mr. Taylors was glad to find them all well.