AFFAIRS AT TONGA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 12736, 13 December 1904, Page 5

AFFAIRS AT TONGA.

VISIT OP THE HIGH COMMISSIONER,

ANNEXATION SPOKEN OF.

The Suva Times of Wednesday last says: — His Excellency the High Commissioner, accompanied by Captain Montgomery, A.D.C., and Mr. King, secretary to the High Commissioner, left for Nukualofa, the capital of Tonga, at two o'clock yesterday afternoon in. H.M.s. Clio. The exact nature of His Excellency's mission has not transpired, but we gather that it is quite possible it may extend over three or move weeks. The Government despatch boat Hamuli, left for Tonga yesterday, with the view, we understand, of performing any despatch wink that may be required in connection with the High Commissioner's mission, whatever that may be. Mr. T. V. Roberts, one time of Tonga, and who is thoroughly acquainted with the Tongan language, proceeds to Nukulofa in the capacity of assistant to the Deputy Commissioner.

The Western Pacific Herald o. Tuesday last, says:—His Excellency the Governor left in H.M.s. Clio at two p.m. to-day for Tonga, on High Commission business. He is accompanied by Captain Montgomery, A.D.C. and private secretary. Mr. Mellon King, secretary to the High Commission, and Mr. T. Roberts, who has been appointed a special clerk to His Excellency, went on the Government yacht Ranadi, which left at the same time. The Governor has proceeded to Tonga on a special mission, the exact nature of which has not been disclosed, although rumour mentions the probable annexation of the group. Ha will visit the various islands, and probably be absent about a month or six weeks.