FIJI.

Otago Witness, Issue 1160, 21 February 1874, Page 15

FIJI.

Our Auckland correspondent writes :—: — "The Governor Blackall is again back from Kandavu. She brings new-i a little later than -we have already. Nothing of importance h.is occurred, but there is a general fear springing up among the settlers, according to private advices, that the Commissioners will seek by some compromise to avoid the annexation of the islands. One of the means talked of is the recognition of the Native Government and the establishment of Consular Courts for the Europeans, who would not be amenable to any others. This has worked in the Levant and iii Turkey generally, but will scared} do in Fiji, where the Natives are entirely without civilisation, aud the taxes levied would fall chiefly on the European settlers. It would be unsatisfactory to both, and would involve the constant interference of England in Fijian affairs. Nor is there any security that some other nation may not step in and assume the sovereignty. The Government at present holding office are said to be anxious for a settlement in the interests of the settlers as well as of the Natives ; and the well-known character and position of the majority of the members justify the impression. It is fortunate for all parties that the question should have been raised while tne interests of the Natives as well as of the settlers have so good an opportunity of being fairly represented and fully considered. But if only halfmeasures are to bo adopted— if England is to insistonkeepingthe settlers under her tutelage in the way suggested, the gulf between the white man and the native must go on widening, to the danger of both and to the injury of the country. Too settlers ask either annexation—which they would much prefer— I or recognition of the Government which may 1 be. tfe fwta established^ without interference

of any kind in their own dealings with that Government. They are convinced that, if free from the interference of English men-of-war, they are strong enough to protect their own interests, and to make their voice heard in any just demand with any Government the Natives may establish. The Commodore and Consul are still investigating, but their report is not likely to be long delayed. "