“The Press” In 1865

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30741, 4 May 1965, Page 16

“The Press” In 1865

MAY 4. PECULIAR AFFAIR.—The correspondent of the “Independent” writing from Masterton on the 27th ult, says:— A romantic and peculiar affair has lately been subject of discussion with both Europeans and Maoris. We Brown, of the Tanerau, a man aged about 40, wooed and won the daughter (a child of 16) of Malachi, a Queenite and submagistrate, under the Native Institution. After some little time Brown heard that his juvenile wife was possessed of £5 sterling. He demanded it of Malachi on the principle that “what's my wife's is my own ” Malachi refused, and was thereupon summoned by We Brown to the King’s runanga. The Magistrate, holding office under his sable majesty, decided that Malachi should lose his horse; he was accordingly unseated and

held by the legs while his horse was taken away. Mr Wardell issued a summons against Ngairo for nominal horse-stealing. The summons was served, but reports were rife that Mr Ngairo would not attend, and had stated that if Mr Wardell wanted him he must fetch him. Considerable interest was shown in the matter, and the court was densely crowded by both Europeans and natives; the question at issue being one of some delicacy: involving the supremacy of her Majesty, and being virtually a trial of strength between the runanga and the Resident Magistrate’s Court; fears also being entertained that should the result prove unfavourable the services of volunteers would be requisite. However, Ngairo attended with the horse, Mr Wardell went out, personally seized the ' animal and handed it to Malachi. The importance of this decision will be apparent.