WAIKATO.

Wellington Independent, Volume XVII, Issue 1775, 4 October 1862, Page 3

WAIKATO.

The correspondent of the New-Zealander writing from that place on September Bth, thus alludes to the effect produced on the Native mind, by the late change of Ministry. General apprehension exists in the mind of the King Natives that it is H\s Excellency's intention to make war upon them, immediately after tha meeting of the Genera Assembly, and three circumstances have caused, this feeling :—

Ist. Mr. Fox's retiv xnent from office, or, as they believe, expulsion by the " RunangaPakeha" in consequence of his 4 » whaka hoa" or friendly feelings towards them. They assert that in the Assembly ho advocated equal laws for both races, amongst others the repeal of the Arms Ordinance. Mr. Fox seema to be fully identified in their minds with the peace policy, and they argue from his retirement, or in their version "he pei " or rejection, that a change of policy must necessarily ensuo. As however, the- hon. Mr. Bell, who re cently performed the duties of Native Minister and whose affability and straightforwardness o character in that capacity has become well known and appreciated in Waitako, is now at the head of native affairs, I think confidence in the new ministry will soon be restored.

2nd. The late survey of the channel of the lower part of the river for its adaptability to a steamer. And this is the moat serious cause of alarm in their minds.

I believe that nothing less than a personal visit of His Excellency to the district will tend to allay their tears, and they have become desirous that he should pay them such a visit, and they inform me that they have authorized a chief of high rank to invite him'to a conference, or as they term it " whakawa."

This is a decided change of their views, as six months ago they were opposed to any such proposal. I consider the fact of their having consented to invite Sir George Grey, a great triumph to him. It is the first breaking of the ice. The excitement of war and the prospect of plunder would be pleasing to many of the king people, but the sword suspended by the hair is becoming unbearable to them;