TARAWERA RELIEF FUND.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 751, 23 July 1886, Page 30

TARAWERA RELIEF FUND.

t O THE EDITOR OF THE NEW ZEALAND MAIL Sir, —With all deference to the Mayor, I think he is quite mistaken when he states that there is very little actual distress in consequence of the volcanic eruption in the Bay of Plenty, and that the sufferers were (only) Maoris. It is quite true that the majority are Natives, and unless Government or private benevolence is exercised on their behalf, they will soon be in a deplorable condition. The CiviJ. Commissioner writes that the inland NativeshavefledtotheCoast, not even attempting to collect their live stock or other property ; that they seem quite stunned by their misfortunes. The whole of the Tarawera, Rotorua, Rotoiti, Maketu, Matata, Rangitaiki, and Whakatane Natives will require food, clothing, and seed potatoes. Exertions are beiug made to induce the IVlaoris in other districts to help their distressed countrymen, and I believe they will not be backward in doing what they can. But there are several European families who require assistance urgently. Can anyone read unmoved the harrowing story of poor Mrs Hazard’s sufferings ; how, buried in .the ruins of the. house with her dead husband at her side and her dying children in her arms, the fire slowly coming nearer and nearer ? Can we think of her untimely widowhood without wishing to help her and her fatherless children? Whose heart has not thrilled at the gallant deeds of Mcßae and his brave companions ? Shall we not show our appreciation in a more practical manner than be merely passing resolutions of sympathy and bestowing Humane Society medal 3 ? Sir, I know, that the generosity of the Wellington citizens has never been appealed to in vain. I say, too, that their help was never more needed than now, nor was there ever a worthier object. Surely some of our talented theatrical combinations might give a performance or two ; and if any kind-hearted people will contribute clothing and send it to Messrs Laery and Campbell, Lambton-quay (who have kindly offered to receive and store free of cost) they will be forwaded to the Relief Committee, Tauranga, who will thankfully acknowledge and distribute to the best advantage.—l am, &c., Sympathiser. Wellington, July 17th.