THE PRINCE AND THE MAORIS.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume IV, Issue 87, 15 April 1869, Page 2

THE PRINCE AND THE MAORIS.

The following is the proposed programme of the part to be taken by the natives, some 200 in number, in the reception of the Duke.— Somo few of the highest rank will take part in the procession, the remainder will be assembled on the hill side near the first of the native houses, whence they will greet H.R.H. ia the customary Maori style. An arch will be erected across the road at this spot, bearing an inscription in Maori, signifying

— Welcome the visitor from afar. An address will afterwards be presented by them in front of the Provincial Hall, and in the afternoou tliey will, should the Duke wish it, perform a War Dance in the Botanical Gardens. The foUowing is a translation of the address to be presented : " To His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, from the Chiefs and People of the Native Tribes residing in the Provinces of Nelson and Marlborough. " This is an address of welcome to onr visitor from afar. Salutations to you O Prince, We greet you as the white crane of rare appearance. Salutations to you the Son of our Gracious Sovereign the Queen, the parent of both races in New Zealand, the Maori and the Pakeha. Welcome, Welcome. You have arrived from a distant land beyond the horizon to visit us, and we hail your safe arrival amongst your loving people of this Island, who are living in peace in the world of sunshine, and the world of light, with feeliugs of loyalty and pleasure. Do not let your thoughts be troubled by the rebellious work of the tribes ia the other Islond, We have no sympathy, with this work. Our desire is to live in harmony and love with the Europeans, that tbe affairs of the Island may be settled quietly, according to the Queen's laws, so that no portion of it may be ruffled or disturbed. " We desire through your Royal Highness to inform our great Mother the Queen, of our happiness at the token of love she has shown to us and to our brethren the Europeans in permitting one of the Royal Family to visit our country. "We feel glad also that your Royal ! Highness will be able to see for yourself how we have advanced since we have been taken under the care of the English Goverutnent, and we trust that our great aod^highest Ruler, God, will keep you iu health aud happiness during your visit to this country aud take you back in safety to our great mother the Queen. " This ends our address."