The Waimate Plains

Auckland Star, Volume XI, Issue 3163, 8 September 1880, Page 2

The Waimate Plains

[FKOM OUB OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

CHANGE IN THE DEMEANOUR OF

THE NATIVES.

PUNGAREHU, this day.

The natives who came to fence yesterday morning, aud waro^sent back, did'not return till this morning. It has been their previous custom to fence at least twice, and occasionally three times a day. This morning precisely tho same number marched iv an orderly manner to the fencing place, the boys in tho front carrying poles or stalks and the men behind bringing branches to interweave the stalks. The boys each simultaneously stuck in a stalk, but contrary to custom they kept hold of the upper end. They were told to return by tho interpreter. Of this they took no notice.

Major Tuke then ordered the 4.C. to advance. On this being done tho leader of the Maories gave the -word from behind to take out the stakes, and all the stakes were removed instantly, and the whole of the natives turned away, carrying their fencing material with them.

They are probably getting tired of cutting boughs to be burnt by tho A.C., aud a wonderful change is noticeable in their demeanour.

It is likely that the arrest of the prisoners on Saturday last, aud their being brought to trial, has not been without its effect.

Te Whiti Las always told them that they could not be brought to trial, and on previous occasions when we have refused to arrest the fencers they have always returned largely recruited, but now no additions arc made, but the same natives return only. Some of the younger natives must have been fencing daily for a fortnight. The penal clause in the new bill has doubtless frightened muuy, .. *,