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Wellington Independent, Volume I, Issue 61, 29 April 1846, Page 3

A Deputation ot the settlors at Karori waited upon his Excellency tho Governor, on Monday, the2oih instant, to sta'e their apprehensions respecting the natives, and enquire what assistance they might expect, and whether they were justified in taking sieps to defend th-msdves, and if needful would they have arms delivered to them. His Excellency recommended them at present to continue tln-ir peaceful pursuits, —stated that he would do all in his power for their protection, but that if attacked, they were bound to defend themselves,—and, if there appeared any danger, the Government would furnish all necessary arms. He hoped, however, to be able to protect them. With regard to roads, his Excellency stated—that he had given directions to have every practicable line toOhariu surveyed, for the purpose of making a military road, and of fixing a B'ation of tho armed police there. The Governor also stated—that he could do nothing at present towards tnakirifJV re- J pairing roads, except military roads; not for want of inclination, buj for want of men and money. The Deputation retired, much pleased with their reception. A body of 60 of the military, assisted by 20 natives, commence cutting a road from the stockade at Porirua towards town, on Thursday morning. Captain Huss'dl has jjivon orders to the difF rent blacksmiths f>r bill-hooks, axes, &c, and cross-cut saws are being purchased in every direction. The Slams Cattle arrived from Porirua on Saturday, and the detachment, of the 93th were conveyed on board during Sunday. She sails for Auckland to-day or to-morrow. On Saturday evening, th« flank companies of the 99th arrived fr.-m Porirua, to occupy die barracks vacant by the departure ofthe 96 h. The military force at present stationed in Camp at Porirua, consists of the following :—Captain Laye, Lieut. Dressing, and Ensign Peddtr, with 100 rank and Hie of the 58th Regiment; and M;ij>r Last, Captain Armstrong, Lieutenants Elliott and De Winton, Doctor Alleyne, and 100 rank and file of the 99<h Re^. We are informed that it is the intention of his : Excellenoy to cause hospitals to be erectek through6*ut"the colony, for the reception of diseased natives, with the intention of impressing on the minds of | the Maories the fact, that the English Government are anxiom to consider their wants and welfare, at the same time that they are determined to compel ; them to submit to British law and supremacy. The formation of hospitals, and the endowment of schools for the education of the aborigines in the English tongue, will be found the most important objects which can be mooted for the advancement of the native race. As a commencement, an hospital is to be immediately erected in Wellington, for the use of the natives, the expence of which will be defrayed out of the proceeds from the native reserves. We are informed that the medical officer, J. Fitzgerald, E»q , intends setting apart a ward to be appropriated for the use of any unfortunates amongst the white population, being convinced that the plan will meet the approbation of Government, until an hospital for their especial use is erected.