RAROTONGA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVI, Issue 9368, 18 May 1889, Page 5

RAROTONGA.

ISLANDS SEIZED BY THE FRENCH. [from our own correspondent.] May 6. A few days back the schooner Punui arrived from Tahiti at Ngatangia, and from her was obtained the very unwelcome news that after all the French authorities at Tahiti had stolen a march, and hoisted their flag on the islands of Rimutara and Rurutu. This news created a great deal of excitement here, and general regret was expressed at the misfortune that had befallen the people of the two islands named; for the seizing of the islands, in the face of the strong expression against French occupation which the petition to Queen Victoria contained (a copy of which I recently sent you) cannot be looked upon in any other light than that of a very great misfortune and cruel wrong to the owners of the soil. Those on the schooner named did not think the seizure of the French would be quietly submitted to. As to that the future alone will tell. There is one thing the people here are jubilant at, that this Group has been taken under the strong protection of the British Lion, and that there is no fear of French trouble.

The schooner Daisy goes from here in a week or two to Tahiti and back.

The first shipment from here of oranges for this season is being made by the steamer Richmond. They are a fine sample of fruit.

Coffee picking is now in full swing, and already a largo quantity has been brought in to the settlement. It is in good order, and the berries are well matured and large. In consequence operations at Messrs. Donald and Edenborough's works are in full swing pulping and husking the berries, preparatory to shipping the coffee away to Tahiti and elsewhere.

Toward the end of the present month, the natives are to have a big talking match over the laws of the island. The authorities are anxious to alter a number of them to make them as far as possible conform to those of New Zealand and elsewhere. Among the most important questions that will come up for discussion will be urging upon the British Government to appoint a resident here, the liquor law, etc. As bo the former question, a very general opinion appears to prevail that the present British consul here, Mr. R. Exham, will be appointed, and if such be the case it will be received, I believe, with pleasure by both the native and European residents. Mr. Exham is well versed with the native language, and from a long residence in the islands has a large knowledge of the requirements of the place, which can only be picked uptMider similar means by anyone who may be appointed out of the numerous staff of under-secretaries, &c., of Downing-street. What is wanted in this group is not a man for ornament Bake, bat one that is acquainted with the people, their ways, their requirements, and the islands. One more suitable than the gentleman named I do not believe could be found.

On Sunday last the schooner Nassau arrived from Tahiti with a general cargo. She returns again in a few days. Queen Makea and suite propose visiting tho island of Atiu as soon as Messrs. Donald find Edenborough's new steamer arrives. Her visit is for the purpose of fating present at the opening of the fine new church that has been erected on the island named.

The schooner Nassau, which arrived yesterday from Tahiti, brings the intelligence that the French had decided to annex the island of Manheke. This island is about 500 miles to the northward of this island, and is a very valuable little island. The Richmond brings the further news that when the French man-o'-war reached the island named the natives had hoisted the British flag, thus securing the island against French occupation.