The Evening Herald. FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 1869.

Wanganui Herald, Volume III, Issue 500, 8 January 1869, Page 2

The Evening Herald. FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 1869.

The news from the East Coast that 120 Hau-haus have been killed, and '100 "taken prisoners, if true, will clmnge the aspect of the war. The victory has been gained by the Arawas and Ngatiporons. the telej gram informs up. It does not inform us if the force under Colonel I Whitmore was present at the action, [ although it is probable it was. from the statement that Te Kobti was in retreat, and Whitmore in full pursuit. From the reading of the telegram, it appears the native allies have done good service, which will have the effect of stimulating- the natives on this coast to follow the example. We think it strange that exactly 100 prisoners should have been taken, and are inclined to view the intelligence as subject to some modification and correction. Te Waru has been taken prisoner, and it remains to be seen wh?t the Government propose to do with him. As an example and a warning, speedy and condign punishment should await him. What is to be done with the other prisoners ? rrhey cannot be sent to the Chathams, they will not be put on board hulks, and gaol is not the place for them. There may be a barren island in some obscure corner of the Pacific, which prisoners might be safely transported to, and from whence means of escape would be impossible. The Colony has made up its mind, we believe, to allow none of the murderers and cannibals belonging to either East or West Coasts to find a resting-place in New Zealand. Te Kooti may now find himself without followers, which would release the force on the East Coast, and permit of a concentration of the whole forces at Wanganui. With 200 Arawas, and Whitmore's 400 men, added to the present strength in this district, we should be in a position to demand a victory.

! Native Lands Coukt.—After occupying a day in, preliminary arrangements as to interpreting &c, the Court got to work yesterday, when several un-op-posed cases were disposed of. There were more than 150 claims set down for adjucation, but of these many are not ready for hearing owing to the absence of elaimaints, want of maps &c. Others again are postponed to a session of the court to be opened at Rangitikei on the 19th inst., but still apparently far more remain than can be disposed of during the few days allowed for the Courts sitting here. A somewhat amusing episode occurred yesterday, indicating the Maori opinion as to the conduct of the war, and the probable date of its termination. A claimant who had been making some strong remarks as to the delay in issuing crown grants, was told the amount of fees in his own case, and that he could either pay them at once or on receipt of the grant. In reply he said " Let them stand, I'll pay them when Tito Kowaru is killed"; »n observation which was received with roars of laughter, being [evidently considered equivalent to I " Christmas come-never."

The Manawatu Mcrder.-—We learn (say ß the Advertiser) that the tomahawk with which there is every reason to suppose the native now awaiting his trial on the charge of murder, killed the pedlar, Korncroft, at Manawatu, has been found, and evidence will be forthcoming to trace its ownership. There are marks of blood on the weapon, which was found near the spot where the struggle took place.

Sodden Death. -It is with regret we record the sudden death of George Coldough, a member of the W. V. V.,which took place yesterday. Up to a recent peiipd deceased appeared to enjoy good health. He was an active member of the Veteran band. Within the week he was under Dr. Gibson'* treatment, but died suddenly yesterday. The Coroner's investigation showed that death resulted from; natural causes. The funeral was well attended by Veterans, etc.

Wowiiiieei Cavalby.—Captain Finnimore and Lieut. Bryce have been, released from arrest, ana" the two Troops will be on pay and rations again from to-morrow. Col. Lyon has gained experience, and will know how to treat volun-

teers in future,