HOSTILITIES.—MURDEROUS ATTACK Hi THE NATIVES.

New Zealander, Volume XIX, Issue 1882, 30 May 1863, Page 7

HOSTILITIES.—MURDEROUS ATTACK Hi THE NATIVES.

[i KOil THE “T.UIAXAKI XEWS. j A murderous attack was made on Monday last upon a military escort proceeding along the beach on its way between Tataraimaka and Omata, by a body of natives lying in ambush, in which two officers, two color sergeants, and four men were killed—one man, the single survivor in this fatal affair, escaping wounded, and with difficulty. o Early in the forenoon rumours came into town that some obstructions had been offered to .an escort, which was at first understood to have been confined to turning it back. Shortly afterwards one of the mounted troop rode in with orders for the whole body to move down to Omata, and they were immediately recalled from the practice ground where they were, and proceeded at once to the camp at Poutoko. The serious character of the affair now became to some extent known. An escort had been fired upon and some officers and men shot dawn; and names were mentioned, and .yet there was but little certainty either about the individuals or the extent of the calamity. His Excellency and Capt. Bnlkely left town for Omata immediately, and measures were instantly taken to call in the outlying settlers without occasioning unnecessary panic. As the day advanced 2 guns from Marsland Hill, the signal for ail to come ill, were fired ; and a notice calling the Militia and Volunteers out was posted about the town. In the afternoon s imothing like a reliable account of the cause of ail this disturbance arrived. It appears that a party of the 57tli Kegt., 7 in number, were escorting a dray and a prisoner, from Tatamimaka towards Omata, and that Lieut. Tragott and Assistant-Surgeon Hope were riding towards town in the same direction. Before arriving at the Oakura, a short distance beyond which coming from Tataraimaka there is a precipitous rise from the beach, they were fired upon by a body of natives who lay concealed in the scrub above, and the whole party wounded and many no doubt killed outright by the first discharge. The miscreants finding their victims wounded and helpless, then made an onslaught on them with their tomahawks and spears, despatching the wounded, and mangling all with their accustomed brutality. One man only succeeded in making his escape and conveyed the melancholy tidings to the camp at Tataraimaka. The victims of tills treacherous attack arc Asst.-Surgeon Hope, Lieut. Tragett, eolor-sergeani S. Ellis, color-sergeant S. Hill, and privates John Flynn, E Iwnrd Kelley, AViliiam Banks and Patrick Ryan, all of the 57th regiment. The body of Dr. Hope was stripped and the valuables of tbo whole party, consisting of rings, &e., taken away. Medals, the rewards of past services, been violently wrenched from tlieir uniforms. AAHiilc these atrocities were enacting, another dray was approaching from Poutoko, at the Omata end, with an escort and drivers to the number of ten, who hoard the volley, and soon after came in sight of the scene of the murders.

They saw the boilies on the bench, and observing the number of assailants, left the dray and returned to Poutoko, from whence a force was immediately sent to recover the bodies and take possession of the position: and there is now a strong redoubt in coarse of construction on the spot. The bodies were removed to Poutoko and arrived in town at the Military Hospital the same evening after dark. The waggon left behind by the Poutoko escort containing bread and some cases of brandy was driven away and was afterwards observed proceeding on the road fb the pa on the slopes. JOURNAL OF EVENTS. [moil THE “TAUAN.ua HERALD.”] We resume our diary of daily occurrences from the date we concluded it on the 23rd March, 1861. Monday , 4Hi May , 1863.—This day will be as long remembered as Tuesday, the 27th March, 1880, whei five of our settlers were shot down and tomahawked while peaceably following their several vocations on the Omata road. To-day we have to chronicle the murder of eight more of our fellow-countrymen under circumstances as horrible as those which attended the death of Messrs. Ford, Shaw, Passmore, and the two little boys. At about 10 o’clock this morning the inhabitants of New Plymouth were thrown Into a state of great excitement by the arrival in town ofßopata Ngarongomate from Poutoko, with the intelligence that the Natives had attacked a party of the 57th Regiment on their way to town from Tataraimaka. The General, who was on his way to Poutoko, and who, with Ropata, hastened on, and was soon after followed by the Governor, and liis Excellency bad not long left the town when his A.D.C., Captain Bulkely, galloped back to announce to the Colonial Secretary that several soldiers had been shot. The excitement of the townspeople reached its height, when confirmatory tidings came in town by more than one horseman, on reeking horses, that no less than G men and 2 officers had been waylaid and shot down by an ambuscade of Natives on the beach nearly airau, between the Oakura river and the Tataraimaka block, exactly in the same place as that occupied by the central party, which w r e mentioned last week. Some time elapsed before particulars of the murder reached town, and ive gathered the following, which we believe to be reliable: —A party of the Commissariat Transport Corps, with two drays and twelve bullocks, with supplies, w r ere on their way to Tataraimaka, and having crossed the Oakura river heard the report of a volley of small arms, and saw the smoke of the pieces some half a mile before them. They saw that a party of soldiers and two horsemen (who proved to be officers) were attacked and saw some of them fall, when they immediately abandoned their carts and hastened back to the Poutoko and gave information of what they bad seen. Captain Short, with a party from the Redoubt at Poutoko, were the first to arrive at the spot, followed shortly afterwards by Colonel AYarre, and it was their mournful task to gather the bodies of the following officers and men savagely murdered : Asst. Surgeon AY. A. Hope, M.B. Lieut. T. H. Tragctt, 57th Regt.

Color-Sergeant Samuel Ellers, 57th Regt. Sergeant Samuel Hill, “ Private Edward Kelly, “ “ John Flynn, “ “ Bartholomew Macarthy, “ “ Wm, Banks, “ They were on their way, on military duty, to town from Tataraimaka, and apparently had been shot down without a moment’s notice. The bodies were all horribly mutilated, and those of the officers stripped of nearly all their clothes. One of the drays was found were the escort had left it, but the other one had been driven off, which contained a quantity of flour, potatoes, and cases of spirits. The other dray was subsequently seen being driven up to Kaitake, on the spur of the ranges. Dr. Hope’s horse had galloppecl towards town and was caught by the escort. This fearful tragedy cast a deep gloom over the whole settlement. Dr. Hope was rising in his profession, and had only lately received a staff appointment. Lieut. Tragett was a 8.A., and the only son, we believe, of the Rev. T. H. Tragett, of Ramsey, Hampshire, England. This gentleman was a great favourite in his reg., and his untimely and fearful end is deeply and poignantly felt by his brother officers. The two sergeants and the privates were good and gallant men, and their loss will be no less felt by tlxeir comrades; one who knew them well said “ There were not six better men in the regiment. Precautions were immediately taken in town for the safety of its inhabitants. _ The alarm guns were fired from Marsland Hill, and messengers were despatched into the country to bring into town all who were out on their farms and at work in the bush. A Gazette was published calling out the Militia for actual service, and warning people not to so beyond the Omata Stockade. At nightfall 200 Volunteers and Militia were told off for duty at the blockhouses and for patrols, and at 7 p.m., were marched off to their respective posts. , The military in garrison were marched off for par*

tieular service, and the Mounted Artillery Corps told off tor duty during the night. His Excellency the Governor and the General returned to town in the afternoon; and late in the evening the bodies of the murdered men arrived, and were conveyed to the hospital.

Tuesday. sth May. —Military movements have been made to-day at the Poutoko redoubt, and the troops have marched to Oakum and taken up a position on native land, where they are constructing a redoubt. Xo natives have been seen. An inquest on the bodies sat to-day at the Military Hospital, and, after hearing the evidence ofseveral witnesses, adjourned to Thursday next, when evidence from T ataraimaka of some who arc supposed to have escaped back to the camp will be heard. Xo communication has been had with Tatamimaka. A few people have been permitted to-day to view the bodies of the murdered men, which present a most horrible spectacle. The following is a description of the wounds given by Dr. Mackinnou, the medical witness on the inquest: Staff’-Assistant Surgeon AA r . A. Hope, M.B.— Gunshot wound through right shoulder, penetrating both lungs as far back as left side near the spine, where lire ball remains under skin ; tomahawk cut over left side of head, and deep spear wound through taco and upper jaw.

Lieut. T. H. Tragett, 57th llogt. —Gunshot wound throng!: t right side of chest, bullet found under body this morning ; gunshot wound through left thigh—no other wound. Color-Sergeant Samuel Ellers, .57th llegt.— Shot through head and speared through abdomen. Sergeant Samuel Hill, 57tli llegt.—Gunshot wound through right side of abdomen, both arms mashed by bullets, ball through head, the integuments of right side of same all burnt by powder, the muzzle of gun must have been held close to the part; head tomahawked and sheared through as well.

Private Edward Kelly, 57 th Regt.--Shot through both thighs and abdomen ; head gashed completely open in front and behind by tomahawk; another deep tomahawk cut across left hand at wrist.

Private Bartholomew McCarthy, 57th llegt. —Shot through right hip, two tomahawk cuts over forehead ; back of right side of head speared. Private John Flynn, 57th llegt. —Shot through right arm and same side of chest, and through left forearm and thigh, and gunshot wound on right side of head, penetrating brain; musket must have been held close to head. Private William Banks, 57th llegt.—Shot through right knee and left thigh ; four terrible tomahawk cuts through back and right side of head ; index finger of right hand all but severed ; as also middle one, by tomahawk ; the man has evidently raised his hand to protect his head. Mr. Tragett must have died instantly, but Dr. Hope, from the appearance of his countenance, struggled hard with Ids brutal assailants. There

is no doubt that all were shot down by the first volley, and those who were not killed outright were at once dispatched with the tomahawk or its spear handle. Several natives from the North in town to-day. The natives account for the murders of yesterday, that the Southern natives having found that Waireka and Tataraimaka have been occupied by the troops, in spite of their word that it should not be, and having waited in vain for signs from the tribes, and being tohakama (ashamed), determined to begin themselves and endeavour to bring about a war in that manner. It is said, however, that the bulk of the natives will consider their proceeding a ItoJiuni, i. e , murder, and will not assist them, which remains to be seen. The families outside the town have come into town to-day, and the Hell Block settlers moving into the stockade. The entire white population arc now within the line of blockhouses.

Wednesday, 6th May,—This morning at 10 o’clock the Militia and Volunteers paraded on Poverty-square for inspection by Major-General Cameron. He addressed them as follows; —“ I have called you together to-day to express to you my gratification in bavins you under my command. I feel quite sure you will do your duty as soldiers and be obedient to orders. The number of men required ior the blockhouses and patrols has made the duty severe; but I hope shortly to have reinforcements, when your present press of duty will be lessened. I sec that some of you will want some drill, and you will have to attend parades pretty often in order that you may become efficient men in the field.” There was a good muster of the Militia and Volunteers, and arms and ammunition were served out 10 those who were not supplied with them. The duties for the night having been told off, the men were dismissed. Mo news from Tataraimaka. A native in a red coat, and a pun with a bayonet fixed, (no doubt one of the rifles taken from the murdered men) is to be seen daily on guard at Kaitake, on the spur of the ranges. Two muskets were fired hist night between the Poutoko and the redoubt at Oakura, no doubt from prowling natives. The Abeona, from Raglan, arrived to-day. The captain reports that the Upper Waikatos had driven off all the Europeans, had taken all the native women and half-caste children living with Europeans, and that 600 Waikatos had left for Taranaki, after expressing their intention to fight and slaughter immediately on their arrival in Taranaki. Immediately this was known, a deputation of settlers waited on the Native Minister, Mr. Bell, who a iked him if it was true that the Government intended to take into their confidence those natives who have been hitherto in arms against us, such as Tamihana and others, and urged the Government to forbid all intercourse with the natives within the lines, thus preventing any treachery and the spread of information to the enemy. Mr. Bell informed the deputation that he would see his colleagues on the subject, uud requested them to see him again shortly. Thursday, 7 th May.—The funeral of the murdered officers and men took place this morning. At 10‘ 15 o’clock the procession moved from the Military Hospital, and was attended by all the military and inhabitants of New Plymouth who could possibly be present. The bodies of the officers were carried on two Armstrong guns, drawn by eight horses, the colours of the 57th regt. covering their coffins. The bodies of the sergeants and privates were also carried on two gun carriages drawn by horses, and the firing party consisted of 50 men under Lieut. Waller, 57th regt. The officers of the 57th regt. followed immediately behind the bodies of their late brother officers, and the Brethren of the Mount Egmont Lodge of Freemasons, who attended to pay their last tribute of respect „o their late Brother Tragett. The bodies of the men were next in procession, followed by the widow and family of Flynn, and several women of the regt. ; these were followed by His Excellency the Governor and staff, the General and staff, and the officers of the different regts. The Artillery Corps, the Royal Engineers, the men of the 57th, 65th, and 70th regts., the Militia and Volunteers, with their officers, and several gentlemen of the public departments, made up the line of the procession. The Band of the 57th, who for the purpose of attending were relieved from duty at the outposts, played the solemn and affecting strains of the Dead March in Saul. On arriving at St. Mary’s Church, the bodies of the officers and three of the men (Protestants) were conveyed into the church, (the five coffins placed down the aisle) where the Burial Service was read by Archdeacon Go vet t, assisted by Rev. 11. H. Brown. They wore then carried to their last resting place, at the’ foot of the graves of Capt. Strange, 65th regt., Lieu.. Jackson, 40th regt., and Lieut. McNaughten, R.A., who were killed during the wain 1860-61, and all laid side by side in one grave. The usual salute was fired over the grave, and the procession moved on to the Public Cemetery at the Henm, ■where the three remaining bodies were buried in one grave by the Rev. Father Pertius. It was altogether a most imposing and solemn ceremony, and on# which will be long remembered by those who witnessed it. All the places of business in the town were closed, and the flags at Marsden Hill, Mount Elliott, and on board HALS.S. Eclipse (which arrived early this morning from the Manukau) were half mast high.—lnformation has been received from Tataraimaka, we believe by signals, that ten men comprised the party attacked on Monday, and that one man, named F. Kelly, had arrived in camp slightly wounded in the hip, who escaped by a miracle Another man named Rac, a corporal, is missing, and it is believed he was badly wounded and crept away into the bush aud has died, or been found and despatched by the «atives. We also hear that the men all had their rifles excepting Private Banks, and each had forty rounds of amiaonitioa—these are all la the

hands of their murlerers. We arc also informed that the natives have been reinforced and are building: a pa at Kaitnke and digging rifle pits. An attempt was made last night to shoot a sentry at Oakura, but the natives failed in their attempt. The Eclipse left for Mannkan at noon, under steam and sail, and is to return immediately with reinforcements. The evidence of the wounded man Kelly has been received by telegram from Tataraimaka, and we hope to procure it in time to publish i: in this issue, 'i he coroner’s inquest has not terminated.

Friday, Sth May.—We have by way of Mataitawa intelligence received there on the day of the massacre, that the natives concerned in it were of the Patnkai (Warea) and Upokomutu hupu of the Taranaki tribe —the very same as were concerned in the ambush wc reported last week.—We received this morning the following

Statement or the Suevivor by Telegram from Tataraimaka.

Private F. Kelly stated—l was one of the escort that left Tataraimaka. When wc got to the Wniran stream we were fired at from the scrub about '2O yards from ns. Dr. Hope and Serjeants Ellers and lliil fell. Returned fire and extended. Wc were then surrounded by about thirty maorics. At last only three of us left alive. Went to the sand hill with a flag of truce. No notice taken of it—came back and found Mr. Tragett dead and private E. Kelly badly wounded. Retired firing—followed some distance by the maorics —hid, and was picked up by the party from Tataraiinaka. May 9.—The S. : or;ti Bird went down yesterday to Tataraimaka and brought up private F. Kelly, the only survivor, who was slightly wounded himself. His statement, of course, is by far the most valuable and is cheering at least in this that those of our men not struck down at once died fighting bravely. In speaking of Lieut. Tragett, he says. ‘ Lieut. Tragett asked me what wc should do ? 1 said wc had better retire while there arc three of us alive. He answered lie could not retire and leave the wounded on the beach.’ And so he stayed and died nobly like a true soldier. We hope to give all the important parts of the evidence next week.

The inquest on the bodies of Lieutenant Tragett and Dr. Hope and the soldiers murdered at Wairau by the Natives was concluded at an early hour this morning,—the jury having taken all night to consider their verdict, which was to the following effect: “ That the said Thomas Heathcotc Tragett, William Astle Hope, Samuel Ellers, Samuel Hill, John Flinn, Edward Kelly, William Banks, and Bartholomew McCarthy, on the Fourth day of May, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Sixty Three, at Wairau, in the Province of Taranaki, were cruelly and barbarously murdered on the Public Highway while in the peaceful discharge of their duty, by certain persons of the Native Race to the Jurors unknown, by Gunshot, Tomahawk, and Spear wounds, and of which wounds the said Thomas Heathcotc Tragett, William Astle Hope, Samuel Ellers, Samuel Hill, John Flinn, Edward Kelly, William Banks, and Bartholomew McCarthy did languish and die.” The following was the rider appended : The Jury arc of opinion from the evidence presented to them that though the Government were in possession of information showing the dangerous state of the road to Tataraimaka owing to the threatened recommencement of hostilities sufficient precautions were not taken to guard against such murderous attacks from the Natives of the disaffected District which there seems to have been great reason for some time past to dread. (Signed) Francis Ullatiioun Glediiill, For self and Jurors.

From the South we hear that a fresh party of Ngatimanuis to the number of 200 is on the road up. Wi TakOj who is said to have been coming to get Tataraimaka quietly restored, is reported as imprisoned by this tribe for proposing it. We have received warning frem well informed and reliable natives not to go unarmed to any distmee from the town, and we heartily recommend the caution to the attention of our fellow settlers. They may go out many times safely, but they may go once too often. We arc able to state that the Waitara block is now given up by the Governor, not given to any one in particular, but he simply withdraws from it and leaves the owners and those who claim to be the lords of the manor to settle their title among themselves. The Mataitawa natives have been invited by the Governor to live on the block. “ Tcira,” Tamihana tells us, “is to receive £COO from the Governor.”

The Siorm Bird, from Manukau, arrived this morn ing at 9 o’clock, and she has gone to Tataraimaka with the General. She docs not leave for Nelson to-day, and the English mail closes at 3 p.m. to-morrow, Saturday the 9th. Soon after her arrival a s ory was spread about that the Ida Zeigler, in which vessel are several passengers from this town, had been burnt at sea and the Captain alone saved. We can state, on the authority of the New Zealander, that the whole thing is A fa turn cation and without the slightest foundation.

Sunday, May 10.—At an early hour this morning, H.M, s.s. Eclipse arriived from Manukau with troops having left the day before. T e day was fine, and all the troops and baggage, &c., wore landed, by the excellent boating arrangements, in a few. hours. The Storm Bird left for Nelson at noon with the mails for Europe, &c. Monday, May 11. —From the camp at Oakura we hear that the troops there, under Major Logan, 57th Regt, have nearly completed the redoubt on the hill overlooking the Oakura river and valley, aud which commands the Wairau beach and a large extent of country occupied by the rebels inland of the scene of the massacre. This redoubt has been named St. Andrew; that on Wilkinson’s farm at the Poutoko St. Patrick; and the redoubt at Tataraimaka St. George’s. Lieut,-General Cameron, CB.. Cols. Hutchins and Gamble, Major Paul and Staff, rode down to St, Andrew’s redoubt to-day, returning in the afternoon. Natives are seen in considerable numbers moving about their pas on the ranges; another pa, which appears to be a large and strongly constructed one, having been built some distance southward of Kaitake, and about 3000 yards from St. Andrew’s redoubt. The road from town to this redoubt is carefully guarded lay strong pickets, so that communication is comparatively safe to and fro.—Proclamation was made to-day of the abandonmentof the Waitarapurchase in both languages, and it is said the troops will be removed into town to-morrow. The evacuation of Teira’s block has caused considerable agitation amongst the inhabitants, and vague reasons arc given for this step on the part of the Governor and his Ministers. We had a conversation with Ihaia to-day on the subject and he told us the following;— The Governor said—“ If William King’s people live peaceably at Waitara it will bo well ; let them remain quiet there for I have given them the land. I have withdrawn from all interference with it. But if they interfere with me when I go to seek payment for my dead, then I shall return to Waitara and put soldiers there and pakcha women and children, and take firm hold ot the land, I have given them the land that the men of Ngatiavva may live quietly together, and ba called one tribe, and may cease to do evil. For I have made peace betwei ■. them and do not wish to work ill for them in making peace. I am a father for you all. If the men of W. King do evil to you I shall not suff r it, for I am a father for you all and W. King also.’’ Tuesday, May 12.—Several Mataitawa natives in town to-day, who seem much elated about the abandonment of Waitara, Paora (commonly known as Little Paul, who escaped from the fight at Mahoctahi in 1860, told us, in answer to our question whether he and Wi Kingi’s natives would not now become loyal and government natives, replied “ No, we are still king’s natives, and wc shall continue to work the works of the king at Waitara.”—A native named Aperahama, a Ilua native, arrived in town today from Ngatirnanui, via Mataitawa. He brings the native account of the AVairau massacre, which reached Ngatiruauui before he left. He says that “ news was sent down that the Taranakis had killed thirteen pakehas, taken a cart containing eight casks of gunpowder, flour, rum, &c., and secured thirteen rifles and accoutrements. That three ambuscades were planted, as on Monday fortnight, at different parts of the beach; the first allowed the ill-fated party to pass unmolested, the second fired into them, and then both joined and completed the murderous deed. The third ambush secured one of the carts left on the beach by the party from town. One hoia (soldier) escaped, who fired once while escaping, and he was saved by a party of soldiers from Tataraimaka. One native killed three pakehas, who were walking abreast, the middle one being a herefiere (a prisoner). Not one native was killed or wounded.” This exaggerated account, with very likely a statement that our men fired first, has been sent down the coast to excite the natives into action. The casks of powder and number of rifles taken is an invention. We believe only five rifles and accoutrements were taken, as the officers and the prisoner Banks had none, and Kelly saved his. This native says 600 natives had passed through the Ngatiruauui country for Taranaki. Several head of cattle have been missed from farms contiguous to the suburbs, as many as twelve head having been lost from P. Elliot’s farm. A large force of natives at Wairau will consume a large quantity of kai, and, as in the former war, their commissariat will endeavour to procure it from our flacks and herds, if possible. Wednesday, May 13.—A fine, clear, morning after the blow—the mountain all day withont a cloud. Th» Eclipse, with some cargo boats, left for Waitara this morning to bring up the baggage, stores, itc., at that place, aad about the same lime a party of tha 70th aud

of the Mounted Artillery Corps ra noli d down to escort to town the W ailara an \ Maboctahi detachments. During the afternoon the E '/■>returned with her freight from Waitara. and soon afterwards the troops and mounted men marched into town, and it is now a fact that Waitara. for which so much blood and treasure has flowed, (and Ma’ioetahi) has no longer the British flag flying there, and no wiiite man’s foot on its soil. IVe have not heard what will be done with the block houses. The mail steamer Prince Al/i <■</ from Nelson arrived at 12.30 on her way to Sydney with the mails for Europe. The news o! the Wair.su heach massacre has caused great excitement at the Southern settlements and universal demands for vengeance upon the murderers. At Wanganui the news had not arrived when a correspondent wrote, but we sec in the local paper that Tam.ati Hone Ilorankawa, tho Ngatiruanni chief at Kaitake, had written a letter to some Wanganui natives which had been seen by a native who had reported to the authorities that “ a party of soldiers had boon on ; tircly destroyed by an ambuscade of natives between Tataraimaka and Totipoko.” This was reported of the Gib instant, so that the intelligence was only two days reaching Wanganui. A correspondent at Wanganui, writing on the 2Sta ult.. says —“The meeting at Taiporokcnui conics oil’ on the 20th, and Tahana and Topia Pehi, are going up on Monday to hear the Korcro. Topia will go on to Taranaki to sec the Gcs vernor, but Tahana. will return and give ns information of the decision come to with regard to the. occupation ct Tataraimaka, though I believe the Ngatiruanni and other natives up your way have already made up tbei minds as to their lino of action, which I opine will not be a peaceable one. (Tahana I hoar now will also go on). Upwards of 100 Wanganui natives have responded to the call of their chief Ilori Patcne, and started up this week for Tataraimaka, armed to the teeth, and more arc going. A number of Egan tanka wa and Ngatinwas arc on the way as a deputation to inquire into flic merits of the case, and if they disapprove of (he Governor's proceedings, a large number from said tribes will proceed to the scene of strife. I think there is no likelihood of any disturbance here, unless some local quarrel arises which I trust will not be the case. William Media (alias big Jack, one of your llauranga Natives) arrived here o.i Thursday last from Poutoto, which place he left on the 17tli hist. He reports that the Ngatiruanni have determined to obstruct i lie passage of troops along the road passing over native laud, and from what I can gather the determinat'on of the natives is to resist the occupation of Tataraimaka unless the Governor gives up Waitara. Big Jack says that when the Taiporohenni meeting is over that the pas at Kaitake, Aliuahu, and Te.Tutii. three pas inland of the country south of Poutoko, will be reinforced, and then the natives will move down from them to the beach and stop the road between the Poutoko and Tataraimaka. Matters appear very warlike. The natives have been buying no cud of red. and also white handkerchiefs, and £5 has been offered for a single pound of gunpowder. The red handkerchiefs for the loins and the white for the head and this will be the fighting costume. Quantities of marbles and hob nails have been lately bought by natives. 100 armed natives from up the river passed through a farm last week on their way to Tataraimaka. The chief asked permission to pass, and he had no less than five firearms on his person. Sir. White has returned from his tour up the river, and has been very successful in settling two very difficult land disputes, besides about forty minor ones. Pehi opposed the going of bis people to Tataraimaka.” Our correspondent sends a sketch of the situation of the three pahs at Karaite, Ahuabu, and Tc Tutu, drawn, by Big Jack. Kaitake, on the spur of the ranges, is I occupied by Parenga Kingi and Tamati Oraukawa; j Ahuabu. a pa near the Northern boundary ofthe Tataraimaka block, by Aperahama and the Warca people ; and Tc Tutu, across the Katikara stream, (all inland) by Ilori Patcne of Wanganui. Another pah stands seaward of Tc Tutu, named Okaroa. The situation of the redoubts at the Poutoko and Tataraimaka arc accurately marked on Big Jack’s little map. The Eclipse, for Manukau, and the Prince Alfred for Sydney, loft dining the afternoon. Thursday, May 14.—A native from Mataitawa informed ns this morning that intelligence has been received that all the natives from Ngatiruanni and Ngarauru, and two or more parties from Wanganui, had gone to Tataraimaka—the first named districts having been “ deserted for the light.” A large force, therefore, must now be concentrated at the pas Kaitake, Aliuahu, and To Tutu. Wc arc also informed that Hapurona docs not intend to join the ichics south, but says Waitara is ray breast-bone, the tribes may go around me to the south, I shall remain quiet.” The Mataitawa natives daily in town. —Preparations in military quarters for a move to-morrow, supposed to be towards Tataraimaka. Two Armstrong guns sent down to Poutoko to-da l ’, and a considerable number of the civilian force for duty to-night. Friday, May 15—This morning at an early hour, a rcconnoitreing party, of 350 men, under Major Mulock, 70th Bcgt., left town southwards, followed by the Governor and General and stuff—At Bell Block the Militia and Volunteers have taken over the blockhouse there vacated by the troops. 5 p.m.—The Governor, the General and staff have just returned from the front. The troops advanced as far as the Timaru river, where they met a party from Tataraimaka, handed over the supplies, &c., to them, and returned to town, nothing worthy of note having occurred during the day. A few natives were seen near their pas.

Saturday, May 16. —Paora, of Mataitawa, (little Paul), who is in town to-day, says that as Waitara was the cause of the murders last week, they shall join their friends the Taranakis if the Governor attacks them. He says that though they had all along asked for Waitara to be given up to them, it was only when he heard of the murders that his heart stood still, and he said, “ Ah ! I must give up Waitara.’;' It will be seen that this fully bears out what is said in this morning’s leader of these people; though we only heard of it after it was in typo. We pledge our word that it was actually said. Paora savs his people have heard nothing of the movements of Waikato. CORONER’S INQUEST ON THE BODIES OF THE OFFICERS AND SOLDIERS MURDERED BY THE NATIVES. 1 (From the “Taranaki Herald,” May IG.) The proceedings were opened at the Mi litary Hospital Marsland Hill, on Tuesday, sth May, before J. Flight,, Esq., J.P., Coroner. The following gentlemen were sworn in as a jury:—Mr. F. U. Gledhill, foreman; Messrs. W. M. Burton. F, Windsor, A. S. Atkinson, J. Knight, W. K. Hulkc, B. Middleton, H. Wright, J. Pearce, R. Pitcairn, W. Bayly, J. Colesby. Mr, Fenton watened the case on behalf of the Crown during the first day. The proceedings began in the usual way by viewing the bodies—a most painful and ghastly sight. The first witness examined was James Hill, Hos--pital Sergeant, (brother of one of the deceased) who identified all of the bodies. Dr. Mackinnon was then called and gave a description of the wounds which each had received, and from which they died (which description we have already given). Ho also stated that Asst, Surgeon Hope was coming to see him partly on matters connected with the health of the troops, and partly on private business. W. Birkingshaw sworn: I am corporal in Transport Corps. Knew Serjeant Ellers perfectly well; knew Private Kelly. 1 was in charge of the transport carts yesterday; they were going from Poutoko to Tataraimaka. I had four drivers with me ; had two carts in my charge; was not in charge of the escort; was on the beach about a mile beyond the river Oakura, when I saw an escort of soldiers coming towards mo and two mounted men ; heard a volley fired from the bank; saw the splash of the balls in the water; they came from inland of where our men were; immediately afterwards saw two soldiers lying wounded or dead on the beach. Ordered my drays to turn round towards home, and I say fairly retired leaving the two drays; there were six bullocks to each dray; six bullocks and a dray were taken by the natives, and one was left. I did not see the natives take them, but they were gone; we came back and were told the natives had taken them; the dray taken contained five bags (10 cwt.) flour, one sack potatoes,' and some small cases containing spirits; I could not see whether the other party were armed; our escort was armed; I saw a native on the beach, who fired at me at thirty yards distance; saw other natives on the beach, who massacred the other party—l suppose thirty or forty; we did not commit any act of hostility against the native who fired at mo, nor spoke to him; we did not return his fire ; I am positive no gun was fired previous to the volley I mentioned. There was now a good fire kept up for as near as I could judge ten minutes by the natives who first fired; saw those natives when they came down to the bench; one of them raised and dropped a dirty blanket apparently as a signal. Befoie the firing had ceased at the other party, a native fired at me from behind a grey horse; left Poutoko about 8 o’clock; the escort consisted of four men and a corporal; am certain the escort guns were loaded; there were two drivers to each dray, and I was in charge, making ten in all; was acting under general instructions to go to Tataraimaka; was to take charge of the drays, and to take my arms, accoutrements and ammunition; waa not told to load; took it on myself to load when I was attacked; had received no caution either'that day or previously; it is only recently that the transport had an escort; waa told by Major Logan about six days previous never to coma that road without an escort,; the horse fro* behind which I was fired at was a luasa

■with' nt a rider; was told to have an escort, I consider as a defence against natives, not to help me over the rivers, as I do not want help; had not warning that an attack was intended; am positive that the man w! o fired at me was a native; did not remrn the fire because I had no orders, but if it had come to close quarters I should have fired; I sent the four drivers back from the redoubt, to fetch the bone . but <id not go myself; one driver (Partigan) stayed behind; I was on the beach. By Mr. Fenton ; The only road is on the beach. I sometimes go above high water mark, and sometimes below it, according to the tide. Only saw two men in red coats fall; I had seen them before I saw the escort meeting us. There is a little bend in the beach by a little sire am, there I heard a volley, and said to Corporal Steen “ there is something up.” He said it is onlv the escort discharging their pieces. I ran to the right towards the water, and saw two soldiers in red coats lyingon the beach apparently dead or wounded; the firing was’still going on. T saw no more until I saw the natives in the scrub about 100 or 150 yards off the bodies; the soldiers were lying on the road I usually travel on. 1 could not say whether they returned the fire. I am sure the two men were not lying on the road before the firing. Stephen Hart'gm sworn; I arn a private in the Commissariat Transport Corps. I was one of the drivers on Monday last of two drays conveying provisions from Poutoko to Tataraimaka. There were two corporals and four men in our party. One corporal had a pass. After leaving Poutoko I crossed two rivers and then got on to the strand. We saw an escort coming towards us after we had the second river about 200 yards. When we were within 900 yards of each other I heard a volley, in about half a second a second volley. I saw the men falling ; I saw smoke coming out of the bush ; the smoke was from the bush, and not from any pieces on the beach. After wo had turned tl e bullocks one man fired on us; it was about four or five minutes after the first volley was fired that we were fired on, and I saw the bu let fly into the water, the smoke came near to my eart. I crossed the Oakura river and laid by in the flax bushes; I also crept down on the sand whilst there. Saw about 40 or 50 natives in the bush and about near it. Saw a native drive away tho bullocks and one dray. Saw natives movin'* about in the bush armed with firearms; they W ere naked to the waist in the bush by the Oakura ; the natives were scattered about one here and one there; I could not see two together. Met Capf. Short’s party, and went hack vviih th?m to where the bodies lay ; there were eight-smie stripped, some dressed, some with even their socks and boots taken off. Saw three clasps, but the medals were torn away; the bodies were lying on the strand about eight or nine yards from the scrub ; helped to put them in the cart; came hack with the cart to St. Patrick’s redoubt. There was a skirmishing party of natives on the top of the cliff to protect the man who drove away the cart that was taken. Timothy Donovan sworn: I am a private hy the commissariat Transport Corps. I was with S. Haitian on Monday last; was the leading man driving the lending team; saw an escort coming towerds us; heard a volley fired, then went to the right, when I could see some of the men coming towards ns fall ; saw one on a grey horse fall off and then staggered four or five paces ; and I then saw 20 or 30 natives come down and attack him; they were naked with the exception of something round the middle; there appeared to be about 100 men in all; can swear that they were Maoris ; I believe there were from 200 to 300 men ; saw them striking as with long handled tomahawks. Robert Parris, sworn, said : I am Assistant Native Secretary. I know nothing myself of the death of the parties before mentioned. I was at Poutoko pa on Monday, 27th April. As I was leaving town I saw Mr. Fleming, who accompanied or followed me, so far as I remember to Poutoko. On arriving at the redanbt he asked me whether it was safe for him to pro ceed to Tataraimaka. I told him from a report that I had heard on the previous day, I was afraid it was not safe. I don’t remember that I cautioned any other person that day. I have answered on my oath, The report that I alluded to was that the natives had threatened to do something, but what I could not exactly say ; they had threatened to commence hostilities. To native reports a good deal of uncertainty always attaches; but at the moment in question I considered it my duty to go to the district on account of that report. I went of my own accord ; I was not requested to do so. On account of the reports I had heard I could not at all tell what was likely to take place. I thought it possible that hostilities might commence that day as it had been threatened by reports I had received. I could not tell how they would commence. It was quite possible that they might commence hostilities by murdering Mr. Fleming. I did think the natives might _ commence hostilities by murdering Mr. Fleming if he went on to Tataraimaka. Whilst I was at tho Poutoko looking towards the beach, opposite Wairau, in company with Capt. Greaves, we saw some one riding on horseback along the beach coming towards the Poutoko, which proved to be Wm. Newland. When he arrived at the Poutoko. I asked him if he had seen any natives. He replied yes; I saw five or six at Wairau. I asked him if they had interfered with him or said anything to him. He replied they they said tena hoc, that was all. I don’t remember any further conversation with William Newland on the day in question, or further seeing him. I don’t remember making any remark to him of tho danger he had escaped on the day in question. A day or two afterwards I said to Wm. Newland in the town: I think you had a very narrow escape of your life ; we have heard that ambuscades had been planted early in the morning, and that they had retired to the ranges a short time before you came up. When T used the word “ wo ” I spoke of persons generally in town. By Mr. Atkinson : Did you communicate to any member of his Excellency’s Government tho information upon which you thought it your duty to go down to the Poutoko on the 27th April, cautioning persons not to go on to Tataraimaka? —I decline answering that question. It is ray duty to state to the jury that I am directed by the Government not to answer any questions recpccting any communications with the Government. By Mr, Gledhill: Do you know whether the authorities had been informed of the intention of the natives to murder tiny persons passing to Tataraimaka? —I decline to answer that question.

Examination continue : I was not aware directly or indirectly on the morning in question whether there were ambuscades lying. Taranaki and Ngatiruanui natives have been in arms against the Government during the last war. I don’t know that terms of peace have been affered to the natives and that they have accepted them. lam not aware that any other terms have Iren offered lo them hut those offered by Colonel Browne himself, I am not aware that they were accepted. I am not aware that any proclamation ot peace las been made since the outbreak in 1860. On Sunday, 20th April, I received two letters from Waitara, from Teira and Ihata, stating (hat they had heard a rcrort that the Southern natives intended commencing hostilities on the following day (Monday) ; they told me that they were informed by Hone Wetere on the Saturday as they were returning from town, and requested me, should I hear anything further about it, to let them know early on tho following morning. I received the letter between 1 and 2 o’clock; I went immediately to the Hcnni (o look for Hone Wetere to inquire if he thought it was correct that he had stated to the Waitara natives the previous day that hostilities would commence on the Monday following. He stated that it was correct that ho had heard the report. I went to Waitara the same evening (Sunday); in consequence of that report I went to t!.o Poutoko on the following morning.

Uopat.i Ngarongomatc, on liis oath, said as follows _(\Y. S. Atkinson interpreting); 1 am a native of Poufoko. On the morninar of Monday last I wished to come to town. Monday, -Ith Alay, I got on my hoisc. The young man named ‘Hereteni came. Ho said '• the carts belonging to the Europeans had been stopped.” 1 asked him where had they been stopped? He replied, “ At Wairan.” I asked, “ Did you actually see it ?” “ It wis the soldiers who turned me back; I met them at the Kahakahal asked him what di' you go for? He said “ to fetch the horse ” I did not get the horse because the soldiers stopped mo, and I came back to bring he news to yon. I then came on to the camp at this side of the Pontoko. I did not sec the commanding < fficer. I saw an officer of inferior rank (Pico ). I said to him be quick and inform the commander that the carts had been stopped. He asked me are they really stopped. I replied yes, the young man man tells me so, and the soldiers arc coming back. I knew nothing of the deaths of these persons All I kno' was that three ambuscades were planted the wee ; before at Oao, at Wairan. and at Kahakaha. I am in the habit of giving information to the Native De m • t. I did give inhumation of those three ambuscades to Mr. Parris a d Mr. Bell. I gave that inform t on to them on Monday week last. The reason for nt ng ambuscades is to commit murder. I knew nothing of the ambuscade planted on Monday last—' hj ’t, is the one where these white people were killed. In answer to my report to Air. Bell and Air. Parris, Mr. Bell said nothing, and Mr. Parris said “ that is correct, be careful.” I then said to Air. Parris. “ lx exceedingly cautious.” Air. Bell was not present when I told Air. Parris to be exceedingly cautious The aiivcs that formed the ambuscade I gave notice of, to the best of my belief, belong to the Taranaki’s' and \ : itinianuis. There are n persons living at the jila.o where the men were killed. A little beyond the place where the pakehas were killed there

! arc two whares belonging to Taituha. I can t saj i whether any persons were livin'? there on Monday la t. i To the best of my belief Taituha and others belonging ! to the whares before mentioned were mixed up with i tj] C former ambush and also the latter one by which ihe men were killed. I do not know of my own knowledge the numbers that were in the first and latter ambusca Ics. . Charles Brown: I am the Superintendent of tins Province. I had communicated with the Gencr. 1 Government on the state of this Province with regard to the danger from the natives. Last Sunday we< k (April 26), on account of the reports I had heard and which I believed to be well founded, I wrote to the lion, the Colonial Secretary that reports were in circulation to the effect that the natives intended to resume Instilities the following day, and that as I had no means of ascertaining the truth of these reports, I felt it my duty to ask him to give me the earliest intimation when it would be necessary to inform the out-lying settlers and road parties to come in. I have received no answer since that communication beyond a general authority within the last two days to engage any accommodation that might be necessary for families coming into town. Prior to that, I rode out last Monday week to warn privately the Mangorei settlers that I did not believe it would be safe to remain there; tha‘ I had applied for an official intimation of when it might be unsafe for them, but the official reply might arrive too late to be of any service to them. At the san e time the cut-lying road parties of Europeans and natives at work on the site of the proposed.German settlement some miles inland were warned in without mv knowledge by a native messenger sent by the natives, and were met on their way to town by Capf. Stapp whom I had sent to warn them; that road party started attain last Monday and were again brought in; the men were willing to go, and therefore they went, both natives and Europeans; they were permitted to go by me, I did not order them. I had received no official communication warning me not to send them. I have received no official information that the proclamation of mart’al law made in the Province in the month of February or March, 1860, has been revoked. I did receive a communication from the Government about six weeks ago, informing me that on the Provincial Government passing a certain law, a proclamation revoking martial Jaw would he issued—a step which his Excellency considered highly desirable. Such a law has been passed and transmitted to the General Government about a fortnight ago, but no proclamation revoking martial law has been issued. I believe the title of the Ordinance to be the Appropriation of Military Sites Ordinance. I can state that I have been for years on very good terms with the Ngatiruanui natives, and about a month ago I received a second message from that tribe, that what cattle of mine they had seized should he returned as soon as existing difficulties were settled. I then proposed to visit the tribe by the mountain road, when after some hesitation the messenger told me that until existing difficulties were settled it would not be safe for me to do so. I made this statement to his Excellency a day or two after it occurred. His Excellency remarked the natives had a custom of balancing an out-standing account by killing any man who came in their way. I said I had no wish to balance the arcount in that way. Florence Kelly sworn: I am a private in (he 57th llegt., On Monday morning. 4th May, left Tataraimaka in company with the deceased—Color-Sergeant Ellers was in command. Sergeant Hill was to give evidence against Win. Banks, a prisoner, who was to be tried by a court-martial; there were four privates No. 7 and myself of No. 1. Dr. Hope and Lieutenant Tragett overtook ns on the road and got ahead of ns for a good start. They proceeded on the beach and we we followed about 200 yards behind, and then they went very slowly and we came up with them gradually until we came within about thirty yards of them; they made a dead halt at a stream. We then came up to within about five yards of them, and presently there was a shot fired from the bank; the shot came from behind a bunch of fern. I looked round on the occasion, Sergeant Ellers and Sergeant Hill were then in in the rear of me; asked Sergeant Ellers if his firelock had gone off accidently; he told me it had not. The question was hardly asked and answered when a second shot was repeated, at which Sergeant Ellers fell prostrate on the ground. I then knew that as none of our own had went off, it must be Maoris, so I capped my own and fired in the direction I saw the shot fired that killed Sergeant Ellers. The next thing I perceived was Sergeant Hill lying prostrate on the ground too. After the second shot was fired there was a succession of shots from the Maoris. I then looked to my left and perceived Dr. Hope lying also prosfrate in the stream. On that occasion Lieutenant Tragett dismounted his horse and joined the party which was firing. Private Ryan No. 7 company went a few paces to tlio front and then to the rear again and Sang out “murder.’’ I then told him to cease crying, or words to that effect, and to commence firing at the Maoris, which he did. I turned round and saw private Flynn doing nothing; asked him why he did not load and fire; he told mo he was not "able, his left arm was broke by a shot. I then told Lieutenant Tragett to take Private Elinn’s accoutrements and firelock and commence filing ; he had no arms himself hadn’t Lieut. Tragett. There was one man who I lost sight of—l knew he was there—told me nothing about it, whether he was dead or wounded. Private Banks was lying on the ground, apparently wounded in the breast. He pointed out to me several times, whilst he was lying on the ground, the Maori that was keeping up the constant fire. At that time there were only three apparently living, including myself. Lieut. Tragett was wounded in the lc f t arm; ho gave me the handkerchief which he hold round his wound; I put it on top of my bayonet as a flag of truce —Private Kelly doing the same with my handkerchief. We had flags of truce flying for about ten seconds under the fire of the Maoris; they appeared to take no notice of the flag, on which Private Kelly and I knelt down again and commenced firing. I looked round then and perceived Lieut. Tragett lying also on the ground, apparently dead. Lieut. Tragett asked me before he did die what we should do. I told him it was best.for ns to retire while there were yet three of ns living. He answered he could not retire and leave the wounded on the beach. I told him it was useless in ns remaining to protect them—that our lives would only be sacrificed too. When I saw he was not inclined to retire, I also remained and abided my fate. After the death of Private Kelly, did not fire any more, but said it was useless firing any more. When the flags of truce were hoisted, the Maoris taking no notice of our flags, I commenced firing again. Private Kelly checked me for doing so, and said I should not fire while a flag of truce was up. I told him it was useless holding up a flag of truce and no attention paid to it. Alter firing a sboit time myself, Private Kelly got a second wound, which he sank under. When I saw the last man dead but myself, I thought I would make some desperate effort to save my own life. While loading my firelock, a Maori stooped over the edge ot the sand-hill and was taking away Sergt. Hill’s firelock, I think it was. I was then loaded and capped; I fired at the Maori and shot him; two other Maoris took away the man I shot down, on which occasion I took up my firelock and bayonet and ran to the rear, closely fol’owcd by the Maoris. They were yelling and shouting after me, and firing, on which I turned round to fire, and perceived a number of Maoris, about twenty, on the beach over ihc dead, and ten or eleven following me. I threw off my pouch-belts, took ten rounds of ammunition out of it, and then threw the pouch and belt into the sea. I a so took off my haversack, waist belt, and small pouch, and threw them also into the sen. There was some flax tying my boots; it broke, and I pulled off my boots and threw them away. After going about 400 yards on tho beach the Maoris gave up the chase. I threw myself into some long fern to hide, far I was exhausted from running. I remained there till the escort came down from St. George’s redoubt at Tataraimaka. When I saw a Maori trying to outflank me in order to get a drive at me, I presented my firelock, on which lie hid. The greatest number ot Maoris I saw was between 30 and 40. The party that followed me fired at me and I at them. I was myself wounded in the thigh before I left the dead. Private Kelly told me before he fell that he had been in many a field and fight, but he had never been so hemmed in before. The first man that fired at us was not five vards away; his first shot did no harm; his second killed Sergt. Ellers ; the furthest was not more than 20 yds. away ; from the first, fire to the last was about 25 minutes. I saw a party ahead on the beach ; if they had been friends they might have come up ; I thought they were Maoris shoving a conoe off: I did not see anything of the escort from Poutoko. The seven forming ihe escort were armed ; Lieut. Tragett was not mined, nor Dr. Hope ; but if he had had any lie would not have had time to use them, as he fell at once ; they were in regimentals. I was lying about two hours hid. The above is the whole of the matciial evidence, except that Mr. G. Lethbridge deposed to having seen a can (no doubt the cart taken) driven up to the Kai take pa on the day in question. We should say that < tie witness—Mr. W. Carrington, ot the Native Department —stated that he had not thought the road dangerous on that day as he was going to allow his wife to join a riding party to Tataraimaka. We reprint the verdict with the rider. “That die said Thomas Heathcote Tragett, William Astle Hope, Samuel Ellers, Samuel Hill, John Flinn, Edward Kelly, William Banks, and Bartholomew McCarthy, on the Fourth day of-May, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Sixty Three, at Wairau, in the lb evince of Taranaki, were cruelly and barbarously murdered on the Public Highway while in the peaceful discharge of their duty by certain persons of the Native

Race to the Jurors unknown by Gun-hot. Tomahawk, and Spear wounds, and of which wounds the said Thomas Heat! cot; Tragett. Will’am As le Hope, Samuel Ellers, Sum e.\ Hill, John Flinn, Edward Kelly, William Banl s, and Bartholomew McCarthy did languish and die. ’ The Jury ate of opinion from the evidence presented to them that t! ough the Government were in possession of information showing the dangerous state of the road to Tataraimaka owing to the threatened recommencement of hostilities sufficient precautions were not taken to guard against such murderous attacks from tho Natives of the disaffected District which there seems to have been great reason for some time past to dread. (Signed) Francis Ullathorn Gledhill, For self and Jurors.