WHATAWHATA.

Waikato Times, Volume XVII, Issue 1420, 9 August 1881, Page 2

WHATAWHATA.

We were much surprised yeatertlay by a visit from the flying column of King Tawhiao's army, which somewhat alarmed the peaceful inhabitants of this town when a troop of horsemen were seen advancing over the hills from the Ngaruawahia direction in skirmishing order, but all fear was soon allayed on their arrival, when they at once proceeded to make themselves comfortable for the night. Some camped on the other side of the river and the remainder took up their quarters in an empty house purchased some time ago by Mr John Abbot of Auckland. I should think that the orderly way in which they conducted themselves is a credit to them, and that they have a far better opinion of the Jfakeha than formerly. They proceed this morning to Te Awamutu to meet the king. Much egret was felt at His Majesty not coming this way. Our new settler, Mr Charlton, who purchased (Jherry Grove Farm, is doing wonders, the plough is not idle, and those who have been acquainted with the plaoe would hardly know it. Our old and respected settler, Mr Hindle, who is looking like his former self, is also making great improvements. He has just erected a very handsome dwelling house, second to none in this district, and is having his grounds around the house laid out, by Mr Grieves of Taupiri in a very tasty style. — (Own Correspondent, August 6th.)

Mbs Lingabd seceded from her husband's troupe at Denver and left for England, taking with her two children. Dickie Lingard takes Mrs L.'s place, and will play the heroine in Betsy, &c, through the States. Amoug the incidents of modem progress in Japan ia the creation of a Minister of Agriculture and Commerce, whose position and duties are denned after the model of the similar office in France.