TARANAKI—HOSTILE PROSPECTS.

North Otago Times, Volume II, Issue 29, 8 September 1864, Page 1 (Supplement)

TARANAKI— HOSTILE PROSPECTS.

Large numbers of hostile natives from the north — including King Matutaera, his sifter the "Princess" Sophia, Rewi, Tikaokao, Ilikaka, Hone Puuiipi, and others — have assembled at Mataitawa, and it is said that parties from Whanganui and Taupo at e expected, if they have not already come, it is probable they will talk over affairs for a day or two more before recommencing hostilities ; but it is obviously most unsafe for any but armed parties to go out into the bush, especially at Bell Block and Mangorei. We hear that to-day they have hoisted a white flag as they wish to see Mr Parris, to ascertain who it was that shot Hone Pukoru.— Herald. The following letter has been addressed by Colonel Wane to the Superintendent, and published in a Gazette of the 8th ult. : — " Garrison Office, " New Plymouth, August 8, 1864. "Siu, — I -have the honor to request you will take some steps to caution the inhabitants that large bodies of rebel natives are now assembling at Mataitawa and Te Arei. "As it is extremely probable that these natives will scatter in small parties through the bush, the utmost vigilance and caution is enjoined to prevent a needless sacrifice of lift 1 . "The usual alarm signal (three guns; will be fired in the event of actual or known danger ; on heariug which all parties working beyond the limits of the Block- houses should come into town, or seek the protection of the several outposts. " Civilians going to Bell Block are recommended to avail themselves of the convoys, which will leave town every Tuesday and Saturday, at nine o'clock, a.m., returning the same afternoon. No person should proceed on foot beyond Bell Blockhouse, unless with an armed escort ; aud should any women or children be living at Bell Block, they are recommended to come into town, as protection cannot be afforded them at the Block-house. ' ( All the outlying picqucts on the south road beyond OmaU are withdrawn at sunset, between which hour and sunrise none of the roads can be considered safe. "I have the honor to be, Sir, " Your obedient servant, " II. J Wakre, Col., " Commanding Troops, Taranaki. " His Honor the Superintendent." The "Taranaki Herald," August 20, says: — " We hear tbat orders have been received at the various outposts occupied by the Military Settlers relative to the formation of a flying column. It is said that twenty-five men of good character are to be selected from each company, and trained for the purpose, and are to be ready at a short notice to act with the regular troops as part of a flying column."