TRIAL OF RUA.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17206, 28 June 1916, Page 9

TRIAL OF RUA.

[Pro Press Association.] AUCKLAND, June 27. Run’s chief secretary, a man thii ty years of age, was tne principal witness for the defence in the trial of tho “Prophet” before his Honor Mr Justice Chapman, at the Supreme Court to-day. Witness said that the people were concerned about Rua being taken from them a second time, and especially as he had already been punished. Rua objected to that part of the petition which related to “The firing of a gun” if he was taken again. Rua, however? allowed the petition to go, but did not sign it. -The reply received from Wellington was that the petition was under consideration. Since that reply came witness had never heard anything about preparations for hostilities. There was a council on the settlement. Witness proceeded to say that people bankgd their money with tho council. Rua was tho banker. Mr Tole: What interest is paid? Witness: Ton per cent. .His Honor: Where does Rua keep the money? ... Witness: The money is lodged with Rua for the council. Ho knows himself where to place it- He docs not tell us. The people can get it when thev want it. Witness said in further examination that Constable Cummings threatened to shoot- him. but did not produce a gun. He did not make a complaint to anv of the other constables as they were all “ tarred with the same brush.” (Lru'riiter.) It was a “touch and go,”'and the Maoris thought the European police might turn round and kill them all.