POLITICAL.

Wellington Independent, Volume XXVII, Issue XXVII, 16 March 1872, Page 2

POLITICAL.

The most important event under this heading during the month is the complete success of the mission of the Hon D. M'Lean to the native districts on the West Coast. We had last mail to announce the favorable conclusion of negotiations with some of the native tribes for the purchase of lands required for settlement, and also for the disposal of some disputed questions as to reserves. This month we have to announce an incident which is justly regarded by those who are acquainted with the history and circumstances of our relations with the natives as a most striking and satisfactory example of the growing disposition of the natives gonerally to " bury the hatchet" and live on good terms with the Government. The visit of Mr M'Lean to New Plymouth was made the occasion of the first overture of submission and frienship from William King — Wi Kingi, of Waitara — whose claims and action produced first the Waitara war, and ultimately precipitated the Government into active hostility with the powerful Waikato and other tribes. "William King had not visited the European settlements for many years, and his Bulky seclusion was always the cause of misgivings on the part of the European settlers. From the universal joy which was betrayed by both natives and settlers at New Plymoth it may be gathered by those who best know its significance that William King's visit to New Ply. mouth is an important earnest of the success in the task of the pacification of the colony which the Government has undertaken. An old Taranaki settler writes to us that " now we have some faith in the permanence of peace in this place and that New Plymouth may again hope to become the happy and prosperous little settlement it was before 18G0. Whilst Wiremu Kingi kept sulking and refusing to see or visit the Europeans, we all felt that the old sore was still open, but now every one is lejoiced and we ull feel that some indescribable misgiving hns been lifted from our minds. Everyone gives unbounded praise to Mr M'Lean, and it is doubtful whether the settlers or the natives themselves are most rejoiced at his late visit. Everything here betokens a revival. A thorough good feeling is established between us and the natives, public works are being revived, settlers are renewing their energies, trade is improving, and we nre all in high spirits." The letter is of itself a complete commentary on the policy of the present Ministry. What a contrast does the picture here drawn bear to that presented for so long and dreary a period since the war of 1800 until recently ! On almost every hand we can see the same results developing themselves. In Auckland the natives who have so long locked up their lands unprofitably have signified their desire to throw them open, and Mr James Mac-

koy, jun,, lias been appointed by the Government to negotiate what will no doubt be i successful purchase of a large tract of valuable agricultural and mineral country. In Hawke's Bay, and in this province, the Maoris aro rapidly recognising nnd appreciating the advantages of roads, and the additional value which peace and colonisation impart to their lands. The great Waikato party, under King Tawhaio, have recently given unmistakeable indications of a desire to cultivate friendly relations, and we have no doubt that at the great meeting, which is shortly to be held, the presence of the Native Minister will produce the very best results. Tn pursuance of the policy of conciliation allied with firmness the Government has decided to liberate the Maori prisoners who have been confined in the Otago gaol since 1869. These men were implicated with Te Kooti, but they have conducted themselves admirably during their imprisonment, and are to be located on the West Coast of the North Island under circumstances which, Whilst allowing them every needed freedom and. means of comfortable existence, will prevent their becoming a source of mischief. The rebel chief Te Kooti is perpetually harassed by the Government forces, and must eventually be captured or killed. Tito Kowaru is harmless ; he is being gradually deserted by his followers, and is now wandering about from one place and tribe to another. He is said to be anxious to make terms with the Government, but nothing but absolute submission will be accepted. The Ministry have very wisely decided not to give effect to the foolish and childish resolution of the Assembly to hold the next session at Dunedin. The Houses of Parliament will meet as usual at Wellington sometime in June. { It is satisfactory that this decision has ben generally approved throughout the colony. The members of the Ministry have been actively engaged during the month. The Premier has not yet concluded his tour through the goldficlds of the West Coast of the Middle Island, but is expected in Wellington in the course of a fortnight. The Resident Minister fur the Middle Island has also been busily engaged in enquiring into the necessities in the matter of public works in Canterbury, Otago, and Westland. Mr Ormond, the Minister of Public Works, is at present in the North attending to the business of his department. The Colonial Treasurer is expected to return from Australia in a week or two. His Excellency the Governor has been on a private visit to the South and returns to-day. The elections occasioned by the resignations of members aro not yet over, but their results are well understood. The seat for the Wakatipu is now filled by Mr Hallenstein, who has defeated Mr James Macassey of Dunedin by a large majority. Mr Seymour has been returned for the district of Wairau, and it is expected that for the seals of Waikato and Rodney there will be no opposition to Messrs Jackson and Sheehan.