NATIVE MEETING AT HUNTLY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 10713, 29 March 1898, Page 5

NATIVE MEETING AT HUNTLY.

THE HON. J. CARROLL'S VISIT. PREPARATIONS FOR THE PREMIER'S RECEPTION. [by telegraph—own correspondent.] Huntlt, Monday. Meetings of the chiefs in committee were held on Friday, Saturday, and to-day for the pur-pose of putting business into shape for tho Hon. J, Carroll on Tuesday. It it now said that ho will formulate some definite policy. Much opposition is being shown to tho details of Mr. Henry Kaihau's Bill. On Saturday a deputation from the Huntly Liberal Association waited on King Maliuta re an amalgamation of European and Maori committees, so as to fittingly receive the Premier. Teni Tuhakaraina interpreted, flic king was very much pleased, and a formal reply was received to-day. He will arrange a programme of hakas, war canoe races, and general rejoicings, and his permission is granted for all pakehas to join in the reception. The matter is now in the hands of the president of the Liberal Association at Huntly (Mr. Edwards), and the Hon. W. Jennings, Auckland. Mr. Seddon has been wired to for his approval tor an excursion train to accompany him from Auckland, and tho Railway Department is to bo asked to arrange for excursion fares. Immediately a reply arrives all preparations for a great demonstration will be made.

Last Sunday was dovoted to religion, a large number of European visitors being present. Miss Rimnier, from Auckland, sang in open air, and her solos wero much appreciated. Numbers of Maoris are return* ing homo, but all are expected back, with many others, when the Premier arrives. On the Premier's arrivel 011 Monday afternoon next, tlio school children will be grouped at the railway station to sing the National Anthem, and an address will be presented by the chairman ot tlio Hiintly Road Hoard, Mr. J. P. Bailey, J.P., who will be supported by the representative residents of the district. In the evening Mr. Seddon will address a meeting in tlio hall.