BAY OP ISLANDS.

Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXVI, Issue 3939, 7 April 1870, Page 4

BAY OP ISLANDS.

(FROM OUU OA\X CORRESPONDENT.) April 5> If reports are true, yon will soon have the name of the celebrated 3 s. ' Samson' to add to 3 our shipping list of vessels trading to this porfc. The existing rate of fares is considered by many injurious to the passenger traffic : the 'Samson' will, therefore, have strong claims 011 the thanks of the pooier portion of the le&ident and travelling public, should an alteration be effected. The weather on the Ist instant was more stormy than we had expei ienced for a length of time ; this fact points to the eaily closing of the season, and is worth the notice of the illustrious visitors we have been expecting. The men who, as it was supposed, took Mr. Adamson's boat, have been captured at Whangaruru ; they do not, however, admit having taken it. Its non-recovery will entail on Mr. Adamson a loss of £25. The sitting of the Native Lauds Court terminated on Saturday. The most important case appears to have been that between Mangonui and the Ngatiwai. Mangonui seems to place his claim on the ground of his ancestors, one of whom it is said was killed by the Xgatiwai j a fight between the tribes then ensued. To disentangle the skein, time and these events have made a difficult task, and one requiring great tact and ability. Judge Maning is the man, however, for the business Mr. Maning left here yesterday for home, but is not likely to have a long rest after his hot work. His return to Hokianga will be like a change from the ' ' frying-pan into the fire," m consequence of the great native gatheiing to be held towards the end of the month. It is expected that about 4,000 will be there. Arama Karaka, I believe, is the name of the late chief on whosp account this great luu is to be held ; a good opportunity will then present itself for those whu desire to witness a Maori multitude. Signatures have been invited to a petition respecting a school grant. Particulars avM most likely be sent to you ~oy jiarties better informed ; I shall, therefore refrain from touching upon its inirport, philanthropic or political