TE WHITI INTERVIEWED.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XVIII, Issue 6213, 15 October 1881, Page 5

TE WHITI INTERVIEWED.

[by telegraph.—own correspondent.] Christchcrch, Friday. The correspondents of the Lyttelton Times in Taranaki, two in number, have visited Te Whiti, who has confirmed the report of Mr. Rollestou's visit, and its fruitless end. Mr. Crombie Brown also says :—I asked Te Whiti if, since he last saw ine eighteen months ago, he considered he was any nearer attaining his object. Te Whiti replied, "Yes, it had been brought to a close." This he subsequently explained as meaning that it was now for the soldiers to make the next move. His work was so far completed. I told him the pakehas were divided in opinion as to the word "pakanga" at last month's meeting, aud asked him if he had any objection to answer categorical questions on the point. Te Whiti said he would answer any questions. I then repeated the Press Association report, winding up, "If they Eoldiers) use firearms, you are to use firearms." He said that was quite correct. "Did not the reporters take down the words at the time, and must it not be correct;" after a pause adding, "It mu3t be correct, because it has the effect I desire, that of making the pakeha bring soldiers from all parts." I did not think it prudent to press this matter further, more especially as 1 thought some of the men showed signs of impatience, as though some questions that it would be awkward to answer might be put. The visitors also asked if they might visit the country behind Parihaka, said to be jealously guarded and fortified. They were told they might go freely, and they did. They report seeing no trace of any fortification whatever, except that the fences were much stronger than usual, and would make good lines of defence. They were not obstructed in any way.