THE KAIPARA MURDERS.

New Zealand Herald, Issue 18, 24 December 1863, Page 4

THE KAIPARA MURDERS.

The Colonial Secretary, Mr. Fox, accompanied by jMr. U-ice, interpreter, returned from Isaipara yesterday afternoon. It is truly t^rat ityiny; to learn that there is no political hearing in the barbarous murders of Mrs. Thompson and her daughter, the dastardly atrocity being the act of a single individual, one which the Natives of the district not only indignantlv denounce, but which they have promised their utmost poHsible assistance lo have properly punished. -No people could have evinced a better spirit. They are resolved to have the district scoured, to assemble their people, and to aiford Miss Thompson every facility in idcntifving the murderer of her mother and sister, in order that he may be dealt with according to law.

Those of our fellow colonists best acquainted with the Kaipara Natives, were all along persuaded that this ruthless deed would be proved to be an isolated act, for which the tribes ought in no way to be suspected. There are many favourable antecedents characteristic of their humanity

and hospitality to shipwrecked mariners; and we need" but mention the French corvette ' L-\lcmene' and British barque ' Helena," as memorable examples. General Galloway and Captain Heaphy are at present at the scene of the murder.

An inquest was held yesterday afternoon; and a gathering of the people, with a \ iew to

the detection ol the murderer, is to take place to-morrow. We saidthat the Kaipara Natives were quite as much interested in maintaining long-standing friendly relations as we oursehea. Their conduct upon the

present exriting occasion aflbrds the most i conclusive evidence of the fact; and it is 1 satisfactory to know that there ia no cause

for mistrust or anxiety in the minds of even tliu must susceptible settlers.

Tlie Volunteers and Militia may be expected back in the course of this day.