THE MAORIS MOURNING FOR THEIR OLD FRIEND.

Evening Post, Volume LVI, Issue 74, 24 September 1898, Page 5

THE MAORIS MOURNING FOR THEIR OLD FRIEND.

A fitting tribute was paid to the memory of Sir George Gre3' by a" deputation of leading Maories, including Mr. Tomoana, M.L.C., and the native members of the House, which interviewed the Premier this morning. Mr. Wi Pere, M.H.R., said the natives of New Zealand wished to consult the Premier as to what action they could take to signify their respect for the memory of Sir George Grey. Perhaps a wreath might be sent, and if ahuia feather could be interwoven with that wreath it might be more appropriate. There should also be a card stating that the wreath was meant as a token of regard from the Maori members of Parliament in New Zealand and from representative Maori chiefs. A large deputation of Maoris representing all parts of bhe Island had waited upon him, aud requested him to do something iv the matter. Mr. Kaihau, M.H.R., said the Maoris in New Zealand would ever remember Sir George Grey r , keenly appreciating his valuable services during times of serious trouble. Those troubles had been more than compensated by r the good that resulted from his administration. They looked upon him as their father while he was in New Zealand. Mr. Honi Kuru, on behalf of other natives present, said they all cordially endorsed what had been said by Messrs. Wi Pere and Kaihau. The Premier said he thought the suggestions very good and appropriate, and he would cable to the 'Agent-General, asking him to procure a wreath. The suggestion of the huia feather, signifying that Sir George was a departed chief, was also appropriate, and it was quite possible that the Agent-General or Lord Onslow would have such a feather. Incidentally the Premier stated that he had recently received a letter from Huia Onslow. He would attend to the representations of the Rangatiras at once. Sir Maurice O'Rorke and the Hon. W. Jennings have arranged to call a meeting of Auckland members for the purpose of considering the desirability of securing a large portrait of Sir George Grey to hang in the main lobby of the House as a tribute to the memory of the departed statesman from the Auckland members in both Houses of Parliament. St. Patrick's Debating Society has passed a motion recording its regret at the death of Sir George Grey. ■