SOCIETE ET BEAUX ARTS.

Northern Advocate, 8 April 1916, Page 2

SOCIETE ET BEAUX ARTS.

The usual fortnightly meeting of the Whangarei branch of the Societe Internationale de Philoiogie, Sciences, et Beaux Arts was held at the rooms, Cameron street, on Thursday night. Major Clark J Walker, vice-president, ably gave a lecture upon the Maoris; this being the first lecture on th e syllabus for the year. The major referred back to the early sixties, when Auckland was sparsely inhabited. In those days, although the Maoris were fullblooded, their habits were closely allied, regarding costume, with the white population. Most of the latter lived within a stockade as it was considered risky living without such protection. The lecturer's relations, however, risked th e danger and lived where Ponsonby is now built. The major lived for a time with the Maoris ,in order to study their habits. He explained their blood feuds and told of an interesting and exciting night attack. The origin of the Maoris was also dealt with, also the difference in dialect. The lecturer gave reliable evidence, by which it was proved that the Maori was a descendant of a race far across the seas, which had married amongst th e South. Sea Islanders, and finally mixed with the original Marioris of New Zealand. As climate and freedom of movement played an important part in the development of the physique, the Maori, consequently, became well proportioned. Evidence was also given to show that the overseas race originally came from Japan. The lecture upon this interesting and important topic will be continued at a future date.

Mr Manning sang "Down in the Depths" very acceptably. A iiute duet was played by Prof. Huttbn and Mr Marsden Wakelin, and a song by Prof. Hutton. Appreciated refreshments then terminated a very enjoyable evening.