BAY OF ISLANDS.

New Zealander, Volume 1, Issue 27, 6 December 1845, Page 2

BAY OF ISLANDS.

The Russell, schooner, arrived from the Bay of Islands on Friday morning, by which we have information from that place to Wednesday afternoon. His Excellency Governor Grey had had several communications with the rebel chiefs, but the latter appear very little inclined to he quiescent. The British troops are stationed at Kororarifca, the ofticers occupying the house of Bishop Pompalier, and the soldiers being in tents o>» the ground previously the site of Kororarika The weather had been very indifferent, as at Auckland, and military operations were ai present suspended. The friendly chiefs had an interview with his Excellency, on Friday the 28th ultimo, •—and fntti most authentic information, we are enabled to gratify our readers with the substance of the conversation. His Excellency commenced by observing :— ' { l have hastened here before the arrival of the numerous soldiers, who are flocking to New Zealand, by comma: d of my Sovereign the Queen of England, in consequence of Hie rebellious conduct of some of your countrymen, in order if possible to secure peace. I am willing to ratify the terms oifered by Capt. Fitzroy, which stipulations were; — that the treaty ot Waitaug) should be strictly observed; —that the British flag should be held sacred ;— that any native possessing property belonging to any European, plundered at Kororarika, should immediately restore it; — that the lands which Heke himself had proposed to surrender to the British Crown, namely — Ohaewai; part of

Waikadi ; part of Tekotore ; part of Whangai ; part of Taute, should be immediately evacuated and transferred to the Crown ; — and lastly, that all the natives should lay down their arms, and general peace be established throughout the island. I have heard that some of the neutral chiefs have been plundered, by the natives friendly, and acting in hostility with the English against Heke and Kawiti. This I regret, and shall punish, — at the same time taking care that compensation shall be rendered to the aggrieved parties. The natives will be at liberty to sell their land, but when the Europeans have gained legitimate possession, they must not be molested ; and according to the treaty of Waitangi, the Queen will protect all her loyal natives in the possession of their lands. I have made the offer of terms as stated, to the rebel chiefs, and have given them until next Tuesday, 2nd December, to decide, after which time I shall hold no communication whatever with them." After His Excellency had concluded, Tamaiti "Waka and Makaori spoke as follows :—: — (Transition of Tamati Waka Nene's speech.) Friend, my idea is to shew the divisions of the land. There are no lands 1> ing without tbeir owners. This portion has its Chief, and that portion has its Chief; this is the custom of our Island uy and down. When the Kutopeans came this Chiuf rose and parted out his lot ; and that Chief 1 ose up and parted his lot. There «as no place left that v\ as not gone to the Europeans Afterwaids evil was seen. This iswheie the si ufe is. My ideas are not of the present lime. They speak of holding fast the lauds,— the Waifcari.Kotore, and Whangai.— Are they to hold fast my portion ? The Waikadi belongs to me ; the Kotote belongs tome; (he Kuapekapeka belongs to me. Kdwiti's land is beyond that, on the mountain, therefoie I say to give it up quickly to the Europeans. These are the whole of ni) sentiments. (Translation of Makoari's Speech.) [One of Tamati Wakas allies ] These are my sentiments that are within me. It does not interfeie with other people's sentiments — my own sentiments, and my own only, are alluding to the Governoi. Therefore, 1 tell jou, th'-* thought was our thought, my o« n and Walker's 5 therefore I said, friend, let us rise up and fight, lei us not be afraid of the Ngapuhi, for Honghi Heke was inclined against us and is dead, Te Whare-Umu, theaveuger of his death, rose up and died by us. Theiefore, I say lo)ou, the Chiefs of Ngapuhi are ending. Now lose up Kawiti, and Honi Heke, they fled and left the KahaKahd, (lieke's fighting men) l}ing down, lam not a thing that simply came for nothing, lam d searchei for the olial of Kawiti's pigs, through the flies (meaning the soldiers) that are gathering at the spot wheie Kawiti's pigs have been opened, but ye Soldiers and us— l think of Fitzro)'s word at Waimate. If the rebellious man (rebels) rise up and tread down the evil. For this reabou we said let us fight it out — Imprisonment and Ironing are what we know nothing about, let us have the Maori method, let each of us have satisfaction. Through my strength they have left place after place and land alter land, therefoie I sa^ let us destroy the bad people. It was understood that H.MS North Star, with his Excellency, would proceed , on Thursday morning to Otuihu, to have an interview with Pomare, who although apparently friendly disposed to the British forces, is covertly aiding Heke and Kawiti. It is to be hoped that his Excellency will bring this intriguing treacherous chief to understand, that he must, at once make his choice of being either a sincere friend, or an avowed foe. We conceive, after his many proofs of insincerity, and deceit, that the Governor would be fully justified in taking" him, and holding him in custody, as security for the peaceable conduct of his tribe- Hone Heke, is at his pah, at lkurangi, suffering from his wound, which has broken out afresh. Kawiti isat Ruapekapeka, in his stronghold with about eight hundred men, and is more hostile than ever, declaring that he will never yield to British Sovereignty, according to the terms of the treaty of Waitangi, which he wholly repudiates, as regards himself and tribe. There had been some deserters from the English camp. Three soldiers of the 99th regt., and one of the , 58th regt., had absconded, not to the enemy, but to the bush. The former had been captured by the Waikadi tribe, (those whose pah was destroyed by Major Bridge in May last), but they had not been given up to the commanding officer. Tamaiti Waka had urged immediate hostilities against Kawiti, and it was rumoured that Governor Grey had assented, therefore it may be anticipated that the war is renewed, and we fear, on the part of the natives, with more determined resolution.

Destruction of Korouarika. — The Samos has brought news that intelligence of this event had reached England on the 7th July last, and had occasioned great sensation. It was also known in New York by the Ist of July,

Eden Grove.—On Saturday last, the house of William Mason, Esq., by some accident took fire, and the interior, with the whole of its contents, was entirely consumed. The origin of the conflagration is unknown ; "but it is presumed a spark from the chimney alighted on the roof, which was thatch, and ignition immediately commenced. This event, from the respect and esteem entertained by all classes towards Mr. Mason, excited the greatest interest and sympathy. From the earliest days of the establishment of Auckland, Mr. Mason has been one of the most active enterprising settlers, as well as most generous, sociable, and kind, to all others. We understand that some Government Debentures, were lost with the other property. The Colonial Treasury should pay the amount, Mr. Mason giving security for the amount of the notes. In England this plan is adopted by the Bank of England, and at the time of the destruction of the Royal Exchange by fire, some years since, bank notes belonging to the Royal Exchange Assurance Office, and to many stock brokers whose offices were consumed, amounting to a very large sum, were destroyed, but the Bank of England re-imbursed the parties, under certain stipulations. ' i | i

Fire on board the "Caernarvon"Whaler. On Sunday evening last the town of Auckland was much alarmed, by discovery of fire on board the Caernarvon, at present in the harbour. Boats from the shore, as well as from the ships in the harbour, immediately hastened to render assistance. The first boat that reached the vessel was from the Louisa Campbell, and Capt. Leathart arrived directly afterwards from the shore, and under his guidance and sound discretion, much ultimate mischief was prevented. The galley was between decks under the forecastle, and there the fire originated, but the cause is unknown. There was not any person on board when the fire broke out. The wind was strong was from the S.W.; but the tide was flowing, consequently the flames were carried by the wind from the vessel, her head being to leeward. The damage is estimated above two hundred pounds # Ship Launch.—On Monday morning last the first vessel, exceeding one hundred, tons, built iv Auckland, was launched from Mechanic's Bay, and the event excited great interest. The weather, and the early hour, on account of high water, prevented such an assemblage of persons as otherwise would have taken place. The Maukin built by Messrs. Sharpe and Nichol, is about 140 tons, and is to be rigged as a brig; she is intended for a packet between here and Sydney, and has been , fitted up with great judgment for the accom- ] modation of passengers. There is an excellent j general cabin with sleeping berths on each side, i and a separate cabin aft exclusively for Ladies. In her construction no pains or expense has j been spared to render her strong and seaworthy : the ribs are all of Pohutaukaua, in the natural shape, and there are twelve iron knees, securing the cross timbers. We sincerely hope that the " MauMn" will richly remunerate her spirited owner, as well as extend the character and fame of her skilful builders.

Cricket. —lt is with much pleasure we announce that this truly British healthful re- j creation is again being practised at Auckland, ! While our friends in England may be excited j and alarmed beyond measure by receipt of the J news of the warlike rebellious events occurring in the colony, 1 it is rather anamolous, but not less amusing, that the settlers are quietly, yet earnestly making arrangements for the enjoy- j ment of English sports. The Auckland Cricket Club have again taken the field under renewed and most favourable auspices. The ; members now exceed sixty, with anticipations i of considerable additions to its pecuniary resources, The onerous official duties of Mr. Young, so much and fully occupy Ms time, that he has, much to the regret of the Cricketers, been induced to resign the task of Secretary to the Club, which he lias so ably and zealously fulfilled; and John Scott, Esq., of Epsom, has very handsomely undertaken its duties. The. first meeting of the Club, takes place this day, on Bosworth Field ; but subsequently, we understand, by the kindness of Colonel | Hulme, there will be an excellent piece of J ground appropriated to the Club, within the space marked out for the services of the military. We would suggest to our fellow townsmen to follow this example, and during the summer months to renew their English practices, and in honourable competition, attain the honour so ardently contended for on the merry greens of Old England.

Address to Captain Fitz-Roy from the Auckland Odd-Fellows. — This Society, which has its origin in the pure principles of universal benevolence, — divested of all party, secular, or sectarian exclusiveness, lias received from Captain Fitz-Roy that sanction and encouragement, during his residence in the colony, by gratuitous grants of land, as well as of personal patronage, that naturally have excited grateful emotions on his departure from the colony. To declare their acknowledgments for such kindness they have presented an address to our late Governor. The address is dictated in the true spirit of English good feeling ; and the reply is still more admirable in expression of truth and noble sentiments. — . There can exist but one opinion on our late Governor as a gentleman — in whom are comb ined the best feelings, and purest motives of conduct.

Auckland, 2nd December, 1845 4 Sir,— We, the Members of the " Fountain of Friendship " Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, M U., cannot permit you to leave these shores, witliout conveying to jou its sentiment* of deep and grateful recollection for the uniform, kindness which you have shewn lo the Order in this colony. We can assure yon, Sir, that its remembrance of jour numerous acts of benevolence, — your courteous accessibility on every occasion, — your untiring personal exettioiis for the good of all classes of the community, surrounded as you have been by a combination of such extraordinary difficulties, as no man in the history of colonial colonization ever jet had to contend with, will live m our memories and that of our childien, when all matters of political import shall have passed away and be forgotten. Allow us then, in the warmth of our hearts, to express our feelings of high respect ; and most sincerely to wish that yourself, your excellent and amiable Lady, and family, may have a pleasant \ojage, and that prosperous gales may waft you lo a hap py home, where your many bright and estimable qualities will receive then- reward. We have the honour to remain, Sir, Your most obedient and grateful servants, For the Members of the Lodge. [Signed by the tin ee Principal Officers.} Captain Fitzroy, lt.N., Late Governor of New Zealand.

[Reply.] Auckland, 4th December, 1845. Gentlemen-, The Address by which I am honored, and' the motives that prompted )oa to express such cordial feelings, have gratified me much : and I beg you to accept my sincere thanks. Whatever I may have been able to effect for the welfare of this Country, and whatever attention I may have hud opportunities of shewing to individuals, would have been greater under les» uufavourab c circumstances. My lim« has been so fully occupied, and my attention engrossed by difficult questions involving the secunty of ttie Colonists, — that 1 have been unable to give so much thought to ordinary business as I desired. Now that your position is better known to the British Government, and to Parliament: now that )ou have Soldiers, Ships, and Money in the Colony : that your Exports are considerable, and increasing — a very different state of atfciirs may be brought about, and you may prosper rapid h, while your relations with the Aborigines continue piudent and just. IWy own interest in New Zealand will not cease. In England I may be able to assist in piomoting the w elfin c of my couutrytnen at the Antipodes; and no personal feelings shall interfere with my elicits for the advantage of the whole community. In the name of Mrs. Fitzroy, whose interest in in this country will not fail ; in the name of her respected father-, and m>self, I return lhatiks for your kind wishes for a pleasant voyage, and safe return to a happy home. 1 have the honor to remain, Gentlemen, Your very faithful servant, ROBERT FITZROY, 8.N.. Late Governor of New Zealaa 1. The Mem bets of the " Fountain of Friendship " Lodge Indepeiidatit oider <*t Odd Fellows. Auckland.

Robberies by the Natives. — The nefarious practices of the natives are becoming most serious and flagrant. They not onlysteal with impunity, but they have the effrontery to boast of their cunning and knavery, and to appear publicly in their stolen garments/ An instance occurred on Wednesday last. Some short time since, Mr. Wild, tailor, had a pair of trowsers abstracted from his shop, and as he thought, by the natives*. On Wednesday morning, a Maori came to his shop with the very identical trowsers on him, which Mr. Wild immediately recognised, and taxed the native with the theft, and as a constable was passing, he gave him in charge. But the native brandishing a large stick, prevented his capture. He immediately took to his heels, followed by the constable, and a number of

persons. On ascending the hill near the block-house, he coolly sat down, took off his shoes, and then continued his flight, to the bush under Mount Eden, divesting himself of his garments as he proceeded. During his course, Mr. Elliott of the Colonial Secretary's Office, endeavoured to secure him, but he grappled w itli Mr. Elliott, threw him on the ground, plunging his head into some water, and had not the constable come up, so as to occasion his retreat, the effects to Mr. Elliott might have been serious. The native evaded his pursuers in a state of nudity, leaving the trowsers and other clothes on the way. We understand that lie belongs to the Nga-te-whatua tribe, and resides at Hokao. Some prompt severe example should be made of the natives, in their persons, to put a stop to their mal-practices in the town ; a good whipping at the cart's tail, immediately after they committed any theft, would very soon teach them to be honest.