WELLINGTON.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume VI, Issue 670, 7 April 1879, Page 2

WELLINGTON.

This Day. The Native Minister received on Saturday evening, from Messrs. Mackay and Blake, a very full report of an interview they had with Te Whiti and people at Parihaka, and also other matters of information obtained by them during their

journey. The circumstances are such that it would not be prudent at present j to publish any details of the business that transpired at Parihaka, inasmuch as their publication at the present juncture of affairs might lead to delaying or complicating negotiations now pending. Several circumstances worthy of notice, however, may be mentioned. Te Whiti, , during his talk with Mackay and Blake, cast off the garb of the prophet, and spoke in a business-like way, and after the fashion of ordinary mortals, about the business in hand. In the course of a long discussion, while still maintaining his objection to confiscation, and urging that the Government had already taken enough land, he showed in a marked manner that he was glad to hear that the Government proposals had always embraced ample provision in reserves and otherwise for original owners, and* he showed the utmost eagerness to hear as soon as possible what the proposals of the Government might definitely be. The discussion between Mackay and Te Whiti was very amusing, and will be read wjth interest when the time comes for the publication of the report. In addition to the report of the meeting, Mackay also furnished valuable information as to the cause which led to the interruption of the survey, and suggestions as to the steps which may be taken to restore matters to the former friendly position. Mackay and Blake will probably leave Taranaki to-day for Hawera, where they will be met by the Native Minister, and questions now in dispute will be discussed with the resident owners.

A meeting of Mr. R. J. Duncan's creditors was held on Saturday afternoon, Mr. J. McDowell in the chair. The statement of accounts was. produceed, showing liabilities amounting to £19,645 18s, of which £14,322 19s !7d' is secured, leaving a deficit of £5522 18s 6d to meet which there were no assets at present shown. On the motion of Mr. Travers, it was resolved to ask the debtor to make a complete assignment of his estate. Mr. Carroll was appointed trustee. Mr. Duncan attributed his present position to heavy losses occasioned by bad debts. <, At a meeting of the Ngatimaniopotos, at Kopua, some, reference was made* to Rewi's action towards the Government and Native Minister. ,

Rewi at once rose and challenged any one who disapproved of his conduct to come forward and say what he had to object to, but no one seemed at all inclined to accept the challenge. There seems little doubt but what a peaceful settlement of Waimate business will be secured. The Government will deal liberally in regard to reserves, and this is really all Te Whiti is aiming at. ' :