The Evening Star: WITH WHICH ARE INCORPORATED The Evening News, Morning News, and Echo. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1889.

Auckland Star, Volume XX, Issue 245, 15 October 1889, Page 4

The Evening Star: WITH WHICH ARE INCORPORATED The Evening News, Morning News, and Echo.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1889.

!T«r k --i0 causa'that lacks as-i-taace, For the wrong that neads roaistaace, Por the- --tare in, Hi- -Stance, And tiwogood -bat "wo can -q.

The reports in tbe letters and papers by the Wainui of the great Samoan meeting, at which Ma-ietoa and Mataafa conferred with the chiefs and people upon the, future government Of the islands, record a scene that is extremely touching. ■'■■} Malietpa's-generous recognition of the bravery and ability displayed by Mataafa in upholding the Malietoa cause during his exile, shows that no petty jealousy exists between these chief rulers of a socalled barbarous race. Their speeches are animated by a simple desire for the well-being of their people, and there is little doubt that if foreign influences were eliminated a strong Government which would rule the Saraoans in sympathy with their ancienl customs could be established under the kingship of Mataafa. We do not believe, however, that Germany will be prepared to accept this natural .solution for the troubles of the island kingdom. There is very little doubt that Malietoa was returned with the object of causing a split in his party, but through the forbearance of the two)

kings this has so far been prevented. It would be a simple matter/however, to stir up strife, because the old king's high ancestral rank commands great weight with the Samoans, and causes them to regard him as the rightful heir to the throne. The fact that Mataafa is a Roman Catholic, while the majority ot the natives are Protestants, may also lead to dissensions among a people who invariably mix up religion with politics. We sincerely hope, however, that further bloodshed will be averted, and that the influence of the great Powers will be exerted to protect these intelligent, amiable people in the pursuit of their peaceful occupations.